About a Boy. Starring Hugh Grant. Despite its glowing reviews, this film is not the feel good romantic comedy you might expect. Hugh Grant is cast as a shallow, self-centered single man who tries to get dates with single mothers by pretending to have a child himself. It's not funny. Only sad and demeaning. There’s some redemptive value in the fact that he finally does abandon his own selfishness in order to help a 12-year old boy. But he manages to swear his way through the whole film, using the Lord’s name in vain as a casual afterthought. The plot is largely uneventful, aimed at presenting the filmmaker’s conclusion that “it takes a village to raise a child.” Grant’s narration commenting on his “island” mentality gets old pretty quickly, and the boy’s mother’s suicidal depressions are downers. Without the swearing, however, it’s exceptionally clean. For viewers struggling with single-parent issues it might be of some interest, but the motley crew of social misfits that finally become the young boy's "family" represents values that don't make family viewing particularly friendly, and the movie leaves you feeling less than good about the characters and the time you've spent watching them. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer — G. P.)

1/2 After the Sunset. Pierce Brosnon, Woody Harrelson, Selma Hayak. Brosnon and Harrelson play adversaries in this now familiar genre of Hollywood heist movie. The plot: while hanging out and getting bored in the Caribbean, Bronson, a retired jewel thief, is tempted to pull one more job -- to steal the third in a series of special diamonds on display on a cruise ship. Selma Hayak plays his saucy accomplice and lover, though without much chemistry between them. Harrelson plays an FBI agent who has followed them to the islands to case out his adversaries one last time. More R than PG-13,  there's a good deal of swearing at the beginning, quite a lot of skin and cleavage, and a few moderate scenes of sexuality. There's also some awkward attempts at comedy (most of which doesn't play well) between Bronson and Harrelson, and dramatic action. Putting aside the R-level content, it's a somewhat entertaining film, and pleasant enough to watch, set in the beauty of the Caribbean. But many Christians are likely to find it too spiced with Hollywood sexuality and profanity to justify a rental, and may feel its better to wait for the television/edited version. The painfully long "behind the making of the movie" segment on the DVD contains grossly vulgar language that was edited out for the screen version. This movie can't be really be recommended as edifying viewing in its current version.  (Reviewer — G. P.)

All the Pretty Horses. You might be tempted to think this is cowboy buddy movie about growing up and finding your own way. And it is, but it's also a bittersweet, bleak, and emotionally intense film. There is a sense throughout the movie that God's providential hand is upon the main character, played by Matt Damon, but in spite of his basic integrity, this is a man apparently without God, who receives His unmerited grace. It is violent, and there is sexual content from Damon's illicit romantic affair. Mature viewers only. Rated R. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Along Came Polly. This is a shamelessly amoral film, at various times crude, boring, and uncomfortable to watch. Jennifer Aniston and Ben Stiller don’t seem to notice. The supporting cast includes Debra Messing (“Will and Grace”), Alec Baldwin, and Hank Azaria. The plot: Stiller marries a woman he believes to be his soul-mate; she immediately goes to bed with a snorkeling instructor on the first day of their honeymoon; Stiller meets and beds Anniston, who doesn’t want to get married; Stiller has to choose between them. Ugh. There’s nothing favorable to be said about this movie, which includes male nudity, cursing, sexual infidelity, and way too much crude and disgusting bathroom “humor." This is in-your-face Hollywood—unapologetically secular, childishlessly gross, and indifferent to the impact of tasteless behavior and immoral conduct on viewers rightfully expecting more mature content in this failed attempt to create a “feel-good” romantic comedy. The only recommendation for this generally offensive film is that it be completely avoided. Rated PG-13 for “sexual content, language, crude humor and some drug references”; but an R-rating would be more appropriate. (Reviewer — G.P.)

America's Sweethearts. This is a predictable romantic comedy with a surprising twist. Catherine Zeta-Jones plays a spoiled actress, Gwen, who is forced to spend time with her estranged actor husband , Ed (played by John Cusak), at a press junket to promote their final movie together. Julia Roberts plays Gwen's sister Ki-Ki, who puts up with her sister's childish antics until forced to recognize that she has her own life, which includes being in love with Ed. Supported by a terrific cast, including Billy Crystal as a film promoter, Hank Azaria as Zeta-Jones new flame, and Christopher Walken as the eccentric director who holds the film hostage until the very last moment. There is no nudity or crass sexual references (although there is adult sexual humor), but the film is peppered with the usual smorgasbord of profanity. Cute and watchable, but try to catch this one on TV. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer—H. L.)

1/2 Antwone Fisher. Although I cringed at the language a few times in this movie, this is a wonderful film, starring Denzel Washington and Derek Luke. Considering that it takes place on a Naval base, the language is restrained. Derek Luke plays a Naval petty officer, Antwone Fisher, who is sent to the base psychiatrist, Denzel Washington, for an anger problem. At first too angry to admit he needs help, Antwone gradually opens up about a terrible childhood in the foster care system that he has yet to come to terms with. This is an ultimately uplifting film that is written by the real Antwone Fisher, but there are many scenes of child abuse and child sex abuse that are difficult to watch. This is also an emotionally intense film, so personal that even the sweet, tender moments are difficult to watch because it feels as if you are watching over someone's shoulder. But it is impossible to turn away. You fall in love with the characters, and at its core, this is a movie about personal strength, integrity in the face of adversity, and how allowing yourself to become vulnerable can help to make you strong. I could have done without the language and one implied sexual encounter, but the language is mild in the context — and little or none comes from the main characters — and there is no nudity or sexuality portrayed in the film. This is a terrific film for mature Christian audiences that will make you want to go out and love a foster child and bring them into a nurturing home. Rated R for scenes of abuse against children. (Reviewer — H. L. )

Any Given Sunday. High-energy football film starring Al Pacino as the hard-driving pro football coach trying to teach his hotshot rookie quarterback, played by Jamie Foxx, a thing or two. While Foxx gradually grows up, Pacino spirals downward in depression and drugs. This movie has excessive profanity, drug content, and a high level of sexual content, including overt nudity. Its characters are almost completely devoid of redeeming character, and what decency they muster up has to work too hard to get there. Rated R. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Around the Bend. Josh Lucas, Michael Caine, Christopher Walken. Rated R for some early swearing by a crotchety old man (Michael Caine), but otherwise, this is a clean, interesting, and unique story about the difficult relationships between two generations of fathers and sons, their relative degrees of love and estrangement, and ultimately, their need to forgive. Facing his death, Michael Caine¹s character, an anthropologist, concocts a road trip for his "tribe": his son, recently in prison; his responsible grandson, with whom he lives; and his great-grandson, a young boy played with charming honesty by Jonah Bobo. The trip is designed to be a ritual remembrance of the family patriarch, which requires that his surviving generations scatter his ashes at various significant locations throughout the southwest, as they drive from southern California on the way to their final destination in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His instructions also require them to stop at various KFC franchises (he likes their chicken); and yes, it's a "quirky" and sometimes funny, as well as serious, movie. In Albuquerque, Walken and Lucas must confront their hurtful past. This is a small independent film by a first time filmmaker, but nicely made and quietly entertaining, as well as thought-provoking. A nice movie for the right audience. (Reviewer — G. P.)

  The Astronaut Farmer. Billy Bob Thorton. The first surprise about this movie is that it's not a Disney-esque portrayal of a comic farmer in an astronaut suit. Rather, it's a serious drama about a man with a dream, and a family that is being powerfully affected by it. Billy Bob Thorton plays a former military pilot who gave up his training as an astronaut to attend to a family crisis-but never gave up his dream of flying in space. So he builds his own rocket (he's an aeronautical engineer), mortgages his farm to the hilt to pay for it, engages his 15-year-old son to help out, and expects his wife and children to share his vision, no matter the cost to them or the security of his farm. Thorton plays the role with surprising gentleness, while the movie takes on the very real financial and emotional stresses that result, both within his family and the small Western community where he lives. And when the FAA and the FBI get involved, things begin to heat up. Great themes emerge: responsibility to family, marriage, children, vs. the value of having a dream and the determination to pursue it. This is good movie-making all around; there're a few instances of PG-rated language, sufficient for the rating, but otherwise it's "G" all the way. There are also some funny moments, and a number of surprises. Good supporting cast and good family viewing. (Reviewer—G.P.)

1/2 The Aviator. PG-13. Leonardio DiCaprio. The Aviator tells the story of the best and the worst of Howard Hughes during the prime years of his life. His achievements, however, are balanced by his personal affliction with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that will eventually leave him an reclusive eccentric. Unfortunately, the first few minutes of the film are likely to drive off viewers who cannot abide the use of God's name in vain, which for a while is constant but then moderates considerably over the course of the nearly three-hour run. However,  if you can get past the initial burst of bad language, the story itself is compelling and the profanity seems but a necessary evil in the presentation of this true-to-live drama. Leonardo DiCaprio as Hughes, is most convincing at his darkest moments, which are not for the feint of heart. Several times we see him (tastefully and appropriately) shown in the nude, while suffering from traumatizing attacks of OCD. Despite the distraction of the language, this movie is well worth the ride, however, as Hughes pushes himself and others to dream big and to achieve even bigger, so that, even after the 170 minutes of run-time, the film leaves you wishing for more. Beautifully and richly filmed under the direction of Martin Scorcese, The Aviator is an engaging tale of triumph and tragedy that continues to resonate long after the movie ends.   (Reviewer — G. P.)

  Babel (R) Beyond the disaster-based, biblically-referenced title, watching this movie is a little like living in hell. Three stories are related by way of a gun: a Japanese business man has gone to Morocco to hunt big-game and given his rifle to his guide; the guide passes it to a sheep herder, whose son uses it to carelessly fire at a tour bus; a woman is grievously wounded, and the tourists are trapped in a nightmare of an alien culture in a desert village with only primitive facilities insufficient to treat her wounds. Brad Pitt is powerfully intense as the husband seeking aid for his wife (Cate Blanchett) and the film overall is cinematically rich. But this is one depressing movie, including an overly-long section detailing the story of a young Japanese girl whose mother committed suicide and is seeking fulfillment through pressing others into helping her have her first sexual experience; she is at times nude, and tragically emotionally messed up, as are most of the other characters in the film. Give this one a pass. (Reviewer—G.P.)

Ballistic. Although it has an R rating, "Ballistic" is actually more like PG, so you don't need to be put off by the rating. The film might better have been called “Simply Destructive,” however, since all that happens is that Lucy Lu and Antonio Banderas battle their way through the movie fighting bad guys with martial arts, endlessly shooting very big machine guns, and blowing up things that explode in raging fire and flame. Hence the R rating. Otherwise, there are a couple of instances of the “b-” word, and one use of the “s-” word, but beyond that, it's far cleaner and less objectionable than just about anything on network TV. That said, for adults looking for entertaining worth the price of a rental, this is a silly waste of time. All the production money was spent on explosives and pyrotechnic special effects. There's barely a plot, and then it's very hard to follow. But, if you can tolerate a few instances of street language, and if you have a couple of teenage sons who like action movies, you may want to let `em bring this one home. Rated R. (Reviewer — G.P.)

Best in Show. While not central to the plot, this quirky movie contains adult language, adult themes, and open homosexuality. It got turned off within the first 10 minutes, so I know no further information beyond this. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Big Fish. This a strange but interesting film. Combine the surreal landscapes of "Edward Scissorhands" and the unusual structure of "Forrest Gump" and you get the general feel of the movie. "Big Fish" is full of tall-tales told by a dying father (Albert Finney) who, as a young man growing up in a small town, had always felt that he was destined for "bigger things." Consequently, in his eyes, the ordinary has been transformed into the extraordinary. His world is inhabited by a great fish, a village giant, Siamese-twin circus performers, a werewolf, a top-secret mission for the military. All of which he uses to mesmerize his listeners as he recounts his fantastical exploits. The only problem: "most of it isn’t true." This disturbs his grown son, who resents his father’s yarns, which, he believes, has served as a cover-up for the real person that the son has never seen or gotten to know. The movie carries us through the latter stages of the father’s life and, by way of flashbacks, through some of the adventures he recounts. Knowing that it’s a Tim Burton film helps to explain the strange environment; but it’s a benign and sadly humorous world, given added interest by the cameo presence of Danny DiVito, who plays a circus Ringmaster with characteristic aplomb. Rated PG-13 for an instance or two of crude vocabulary and some stylized nudity: one view of a young woman seen from the back, standing in a lake; and one of a man, also from the back, standing outside; and a couple of tasteful instances of a woman swimming nude underwater (blurred and seen from a distance). This movie may not be for everyone, but as a quirky love-story and story of family reconciliation, it offers a thoughtful and refreshing change of pace from the usual Hollywood fare. (Reviewer — G. P.)

Big Tease, The. If you have been wooed by the trailer, which makes an admittedly funny play on the movie Braveheart ("except I'm a haaaairdlesser"), and are hoping that, despite your suspicions to the contrary, this movie is okay to watch, give it up. The movie is offensive, and extremely so. It is about an openly gay hairdresser from Scotland who comes to America, determined to compete in a hair dressing tournament to which he is not invited. Produced in documentary-style, this is film, while intended to be a comedy, is real enough to be nauseating. It contains overt homosexuality, excessive profanity, and a host of seedy characters and appalling situations that will offend conservative viewers almost immediately. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Bill Cosby: 49. Bill Cosby, funny as always. We may be a little late watching this film, but Cosby's humor about the aging process never gets old. Everybody may laugh at something different, but everyone will laugh. Cosby stays true to his clean, family-oriented humor, although there are a few muffled profanities in the last half of the video that mar an otherwise terrific hour of fun. As always, Cosby leaves you with the lasting lesson: Never take yourself too seriously. Not Rated. (Reviewer — H. L. )

1/2 Billy Elliott. The story revolves around a young boy who, for lack of boxing talent, becomes interested in ballet by watching the girl's class in the room next to the gym. He begins ditching his boxing lessons and attending ballet lessons instead, unbeknownst to his father, a burly coal miner on strike at the local mine. The story about the young boy's budding talent, and his struggle to enter a dance school despite discouragement and embarrassment in the eyes of the local townsfolk, especially his father, is tremendous. This is a thoroughly enjoyable film, although it does contain offensive language characteristic of Irish mining towns. Fortunately for American audiences, the Irish accent is so thick that this language can sometimes be missed, although, to their loss, other parts of the dialogue are, too. Other than the language, the movie is wonderful and maintains a delicate balance of sweetness and drama. This is not a movie for children. Rated R for language. (Reviewer—H. L.)

  Blood Diamond

Bounce. Not the “romantic comedy” you'd expect. Ben Affleck plays a cocky marketing guy whose playboy ways are brought to a halt when he gives his airline ticket to a stranger so that he can stay behind and have a dalliance with a young woman, while the plane crashes—and the stranger is killed. Affleck goes into a tailspin, jeopardizing his career in an effort to aid the stranger's widow and her children. Reviews of this film were unfairly critical, suggesting that there was no “romantic rapport” between Affleck and Gwyneth Paltrow. But that's the point: romance is plagued by the history that has brought them together. In typical Hollywood fashion, Affleck spends the first few minutes swearing quietly under his breath, and there's an implied “about to be” bedroom scene and a TV-level “morning after” scene, but basically, once the rating is established, the swearing goes away, and the film on the whole is clean and thoughtful. If you're not comfortable with flying, though, you won't want to sit through this film, which reminds us continuously of the devastating consequences of losing someone in an airline crash. Nevertheless this is a thought-provoking and engaging story, keeping you guessing about how it will—or ever could—work out. Good performances by both Affleck and Paltrow. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer — G. P. )

1/2 The Bourne Identity. Starring Matt Damon and Franka Potente. A very entertaining movie, with European settings, and full of action and intrigue. Christian viewers, however, need to be cautioned that there are a couple of outbursts of profanity, and a vulgar term or two that should have earned it an R-rating. Otherwise, it’s visually very clean (with one brief scene of the characters starting to disrobe while kissing), although the fighting and action scenes are very violent and at times graphic. Early images of bullets being removed from Matt Damon’s back seem gratuitous, but that kind graphic “reality” is now common on television dramas such as CSI. Adapted from a Robert Ludlum novel about a covert government assassin who awakes to find he has amnesia and is the target of people trying to kill him, this is a satisfying thrill-ride with harrowing car chases, secret government bad guys, and a number of action surprises. It’s better than your average Hollywood action flick, but best for the not-so-squeamish, and for mature adults. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer — G. P.)

Cast Away. What do you do when your airplane goes down in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and you are washed up on an island, alone, with no survival training and no companionship except a washed-up soccer ball you start calling "Wilson"? Tom Hanks is about to find out. Although it has its darker side, this modern-day version of Robinson Crusoe is entertaining, suspenseful, and well done. Except for one brief and unnecessary outburst, there is no offensive language or content to offend viewers in this emotionally intense film. Although this movie is very long, you don't notice. It is completely captivating. Certain scenes and subject matter are too intense for young children. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer—H. L.)

1/2  Casanova. Heath Ledger, Sienna Miller, Jeremy Irons. Despite its R rating, surprisingly inoffensive. There's but one early, very brief scene of sexual activity--just to establish the credibility of the film, given its topic. But after that, the sexuality goes underground and is simply implied. The movie tells a love story, set in Venice, and plays out as a historical romance, echoing Shakespeare at times, and is entertaining enough. Can a "romeo" and infamous cad find true love? Escape the trials of the Inquisition? Jeremy Irons gives an entertaining performance as an insidiously single-minded prosecutor of morality; but some viewers might be offended by the way he's portrayed, since he should be the good guy. And the overall theme, of socially acceptable adultery rampant in Venician society is ever present, so viewers would need to make their own decision about whether it's an appropriate topic for home entertainment. But overall, this is an entertaining period piece for the right audience. (Reviewer—G.P.)

Catch Me If You Can. Tom Hanks and Leonardo DeCaprio star in this film about a bumbling but not completely incompetent FBI agent tracking a 17-year old con artist around the country. Despite the happy-go-lucky trailers, this is not a feel-good film. It's a sad film about a young boy whose broken family life drives him to a life of bank fraud in a vain effort to repair his parents' broken marriage and restore his father's respectability. There are moments of levity, but they are rare. The watcher is painfully and constantly aware of the inner turmoil of this boy who simply wants his father's approval. The last few seconds of the real life story provide some relief, but overall, this movie is not what it seems. Although not overly profane, it does have some profanity; and DiCaprio has his share of sexual encounters, which are handled tastefully. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer — H. L.)

1/2 Chocolat. This film is not what you might expect, based on the suggestive trailers. Much of it is exquisitely filmed on location in a small mountain-top village in France. The movie is presented as a “fable,” a timeless story of the conflict between the freedom to experience sensuality — represented by the enjoyment of rich chocolates — and the restraints that come by way of religious institutions and social conformity, represented by the Catholic church. As the conflict plays out, it emerges with sexual overtones, but the theme is handled on a “PG level.” There is one episode late in the film that shows the lead characters going into a dwelling together, where intimacy apparently occurs, although it's not explicitly shown. Some viewers may be offended by the film's clear choice and theme: sensual pleasures are good, repressed sensuality is bad. But the resolution is not so clear cut by the end, as the main character (Juliette Binoche, ) makes a “higher” moral choice, a sacrificial one. In doing so, she breaks free of what once seemed to be her pre-determined destiny. The movie is beautifully filmed, free of offensive language and—but for two instances—of sexuality. A second instance shows briefly a man and woman unclothed in bed and romantically engaged. This is somewhat muted, and is soon over. Otherwise, this is a beautifully filmed, thought provoking story, told with taste and artistic panache, a thoughtful departure from the typical Hollywood fare of fiery action and empty romantic comedies. Despite the rich “chocolates,” it's a story that sticks with you. (Reviewer — G. P.)

The Constant Gardner.  (R) Ralph Fiennes, Rachel Weisz. This is a tough movie, based on a John LeCarré novel, about a British couple who find themselves caught up in the corruption and violence of an African nation. Fiennes arrives in Africa as a low-level British diplomat; Wiesz as a world health aid advocate. The film pulls no punches and doesn't succumb to a happy Hollywood ending, so be prepared for stark realism--and realistic portrayals of life in a lawless nation where thugs rule and European power and money run roughshod over the morally courageous. There's a good bit of rough dialogue and language early on, and one tasteful bedroom scene between a man and wife. But the R-rating would be appropriate based on the general environment of senseless murder, visual images, and violence as much as from the other content. True to its critical acclaim, however, this is quite a good film, but be sure you're the right audience before watching. (Reviewer — G. P.)

Convicts. This theatrical remake is well done. The story is told from the perspective of the main character, a young boy, whose goal in life is to earn enough money from working his grandfather's store to buy a tombstone for his father's grave. The produce for the store comes from his grandfather's farm, which is worked by local convicts, whose inhumane treatment by the boy's grandfather, played by Robert Duvall, is watched through the boy's compassionate eyes. Also working the farm are three former slaves (one of which is played by James Earl Jones), whose love, humility, and biblical values uphold this film. The pacing is like a play, not like a movie, so be patient and let it unfold. Unfortunately, the language of Robert Duvall's character spoils what would otherwise be a terrific film. His excessive profanity and blasphemous language ruin a film that otherwise could, and should, be enjoyed by everyone. (Reviewer—H. L.)

The Core. (PG-13, released 2003) Hilary Swank Stanley Tucci, Aaron Eckhart. Fans of sci-fi and adventure should enjoy this high-energy, high-tech movie about a team of “terranauts” who are sent into the earth's core to try to restore its rotation--and so, save the world from total destruction. Hilary Swank gets the lead role as a NASA pilot who has distinguished herself on a recent Shuttle mission and is selected for her bravery and cool head under pressure. But for one under-the-breath whispered oath very late in the film, this one is exceptionally clean and free of unwanted swearing or sexual innuendo. The scientifically minded will particularly enjoy the techie dialogue and physical challenges that must be spontaneously overcome along the way. Sit back and enjoy the visual ride with this one, in the tradition of “Journey to the Center of the Earth” and “2000 Leagues Under the Sea.” (Reviewer — G. P. )

1/2 Daredevil. A better, but much darker and more disturbing version of “Spiderman.” Add some graphic violence and lots of “Crouching Tiger” wire-work, and you've pretty much got the movie. Based on the level of violence and overall tone, the rating should be more like R. One brief TV-level love scene was added late in the making of the film to add some romantic punch; otherwise it's basically clean, though it also contains some instances of swearing. Not for kids. Think Danny DeVito as the Penguin in “Batman;” it's violent and even disturbing at times, featuring lots of sharp-edged weapons and firearms. For Jennifer Garner fans, a must-see, but don't be disappointed. There's not a happy ending. Bottom line: unless you're a die-hard fan of the comics or Sydney Bristow, there's not a very good reason to watch this film. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer — G. P. )

Double Jeopardy. This is a well-made suspense film that contains very little language or offensive material. It does contain brief nudity and sexual content in the beginning of the film between husband and wife. The plot is based around a woman, played by Ashley Judd, who is framed for killing her husband so he can collect the insurance money. After being wrongfully convicted for his murder, while imprisoned, she learns two things that send her life spinning: that her husband is alive and has betrayed her; and that, because she has already been tried and convicted for killing her husband, she can kill him upon release without facing trial again. Upon release, she sets out to do just that. The theme of this movie is distinctively adult, but the handling of the subject matter is done in a surprisingly tasteful manner. Tommy Lee Jones, the detective out to stop her, is terrific, as usual. Rated R. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Down With Love. If you’re a fan of early 60’s television, show tunes, and theatrical schtick, you might like this movie. But then, people with a taste for the Ed Sullivan Show won’t likely be comfortable with the theme: the rise of sexual freedom in the age of the birth of feminism. This is a spoof on the women’s movement, the world of corporate men, and big-city playboys--and on romantic comedies, in general. For the thematic content, it should be rated G, since there’s no bad language or visually objectionable content. Sexuality is only talked about in the dialogue. Renee Zellwegger is given a neon-Barbie doll look and plays the leading role as though she were, literally, an animated plastic doll; while her leading man does the same, only in the guise of a Dick Van Dyke clone. Frasier co-star, David Hyde Pierce, plays Niles again, but with his characteristically comedic perfection. As for the plot: A homely secretary gives herself a makeover and creates a best-selling sensational book in order to attract a man; as a sophisticated New York writer, she spars with the New York playboy who is the object of her affection and he falls in love despite himself. It’s been done in other guises, but here parody replaces realism. Add a color theme of chartreuse orange purples and pinks, dramatically exaggerated wardrobes, and the world’s most annoying sound track, and the in-your-face campy spoof becomes—completely unbearable. . . . Yes, I rented it—but what was I thinking! Rated PG-13. (Reviewer — G.P.)

Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story.  Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning, Kris Kristofferson, Elisabeth Shue, David Morse. Even if you aren't  a fan of horse racing, you won't want  to miss this movie. There's a good story here for everyone, young and old. The film explores a number of important issues, including family relationships, the dark side of greed, and overcoming  difficulty in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds—all of which go a long way toward making it more than just another horse story. Yes, it's predictable, but beautifully told, with a strong cast, including Kris Kristofferson, who actually gets more than his usual cameo role; and David Morse (The Green Mile) who plays the villain with his characteristically screen-captivating presence. At times, Dakota Fanning's dialogue is difficult to hear, so be prepared to rewind or turn on the captions. But even so, this is a refreshingly satisfying and enjoyable film. Highly recommended. (Reviewer — G. P.)

Elektra. "Elektra the warrior survives a near-death experience, becomes an assassin-for-hire, and tries to protect her two latest targets, a single father and his young daughter, from a group of supernatural assassins." (Internet Movie Database)

Jennifer Garner reportedly didn't think much this film--a spin-off of her eponymous role in Daredevil. But she nevertheless gives a dynamic performance as a martial arts phenome in this treatment of the comic book character of the same name. If you're not familiar with the comic book series, you may be a bit clueless about the back-story of this troubled character, but it's not necessary to follow the plot. This is sheer fantasy, relying on the wire-action fighting style made popular by Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; so don't expect Shakespeare. Rather, it's about a young woman whose inner anger expresses itself through her considerable physical fighting skills, which she uses to confront an evil adversary, a warrior who is out to control the world. Fans of Jennifer Garner will not be disappointed in her blend of "tough-girl/woman with  a compassionate side" portrayal. The story, however, never really gels. As the DVD extras suggest, the explanation for Elektra¹s motivations were edited out, so we're left only with the action scenes and the main storyline. One caution: Some viewers might be uncomfortable with the darkly mystical aspects of the evil characters who have magical powers, but again, this is tastefully animated in a way that is true to the story's graphic origins without seeming any more disturbing than something that might be seen on network  television. The film is clean and includes only a couple of very quiet instances of bad language at the beginning. So if you like this kind of film, watch  it without too much expectation, knowing that the main attraction is Jennifer Garner displaying her trademark action skills, and, as always, winning one for the good guys. (Reviewer — G. P.)

1/2 Elizabethtown.  (PG-13) Starring Orlando Bloom and Kirsten Dunst. Unfortunately, this is not a particularly good film, even though clean and well-intentioned. It tells the story of a rising star in the sports-shoe industry (Orlando Bloom) whose sales campaign is a disastrous flop, leaving him feeling ruined and humiliated. Just before he can terminate himself, however, he learns he must return to Kentucky to represent the family at the his father's funeral. Kirsten Dunst, a young, perky, optimistic flight attendant shows up and sets out to save him. Played with a light tone of self-mocking comedy, the story is entertaining enough, but overly long and desperately in need of a good edit. Devoid of offensive sexuality and language, it attempts to make a point about the importance of family ("blood") and of overcoming "failure." But these ideas are only barely realized. It does, of course, have a happy ending. (Reviewer — G. P.)

Erin Brokovich. Broke single mother, Erin Brokovich, played by Julia Roberts, bulldozes her way into a job at her lawyer's office as payback for a lost personal injury suit. While working as his assistant, she stumbles across evidence against a large corporation contaminating the groundwater that promises to be the biggest case of the lawyer's career. Roberts' character, who has no education, no training, and a mouth that would make a Marine blush, uses her charm to unit a community to fight for their rights and save the day. The fact that this is based upon a true story makes the ending of this modern-day David and Goliath story worth cheering about. Unfortunately, the language of the main character could curdle milk. Her profanity overwhelms the senses, and if that doesn't offend you, her revealing attire will. The character with the highest level of integrity in this film is her boyfriend, who, unfortunately, is overtly involved with Erin in an out-of-marriage sexual relationship. All of this is really a shame because this could have been a really good movie. Rated R. (Reviewer—H. L.)

1/2. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.  Jim Carey, Kate Winslet. Thinking this would be a better alternative to the 20-something romantic comedy, "Garden State," I opted for the "adult" version of what appeared to be a variant of the rather entertaining "50 First Dates." Not. Instead, it's an artsy film composed of a wash of images of overlapping time and laced throughout with swearing and profanity. The plot: Following a troubled courtship involving two mismatched eccentrics, a rather fickle young woman (Kate Winslet) has her memory of her boyfriend (Jim Carey) erased when she tires of him. In response, he tries to do the same, but during the procedure, begins to resist. After some goofy techno-manipulation, he succeeds in fighting to retain his memories and  goes back to her to start their relationship over again. That relationship, however, is one of aimless interaction: without true affection or, certainly, love. Rather than the compelling romantic drama it looks to be in the media, this is merely a dark portrayal of two pretty messed up people. Aside from a scene showing co-star Kirsten Dunst dancing in her skivvies, there are no visual issues to make viewers uncomfortable other than the pervasive scowling of its major characters. This is one movie that could better be left on the shelf.
 (Reviewer — G. P.)

Evelyn. (PG, released in 2002) Starring: Pierce Brosnan, Aidan Quinn, Julianna Margulies, Stephen Rea., Alan Bates. Just about everyone should enjoy this treatment of a true story about a father in 1940s Ireland whose children are taken away by the government and who fights to get them back. As a single father who has lost both his job and his wife., he's told he cannot properly raise his three children. Against the odds, however, he decides to “fight Goliath”--the Irish Government and the Catholic Church--and mounts a legal challenge. The movie is a bit slow to get started but finally moves to the courtroom where the battle is fought. Pierce Brosnan, playing the father, is well supported by Anna Margolis, Aidan Quinn, and Alan Bates; and the child-actor Sophie Vavasseur is cute enough to win the hearts of all. Dialogue actually includes quotations from Scripture and discussions of how one should act in view of biblical mandates. The final prayer of Evelyn (Sophie)--whose faith and charity exceeds that of the adults--becomes the clincher for the case, and the film. There's enough dramatic action--and hard-drinking scenes--to keep this from being a Walt Disney trip, but it's an unusually truthful and honest look at what turned out to be a legal case that forced Ireland to change its child-custody laws and to allow many parents to reclaim their children from the Catholic-run government homes where they were being unconstitutionally held. Highly recommended for its thematic and Bible-based treatment of this emotionally compelling story. (Reviewer — G. P. )

Even Cowgirls Get the Blues. Uma Thuman on a cattle ranch, learning to rope and ride? What could be better? Just about anything. This movie is not what it seems. It is filled with occult material and glorifies homosexuality, cross-dressing, and the drug and alternative lifestyle subculture. The attitudes of the characters toward one another are abhorrent, and the fact that they are glorified in a comic manner is appalling. The promotional write-up on the back of this video is very misleading. Stay away from this movie. Rated R. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Ever After. There is nothing offensive in this audacious romp. You will want to see it more than once, with your kids, your spouse, and even your grandmother. Although it is billed as "a Cinderella story," it a movie to be enjoyed by viewers of all ages. Set in the 1600s, it has a wonderful array of costumes, sword fights, and castles to boot. This love story and adventurous surprises rolled into one is as fun for adults to watch as it is for younger viewers. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Face Off. John Travolta and Nicholas Cage face off as hunter and hunted in this mediocre identity-switch thriller. In addition to the language and sexual content, there are lots of situations that will turn your stomach. Sometimes the thrill just isn't worth it. Not worth watching. Rated R. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Family Man. Nicholas Cage and Tea Leoni star in this film about second chances. Many of us have wondered what our lives would have been like if we had only taken a different path, and this is exactly the chance Cage's character is given. After leaving his college sweetheart at the airport 13 years earlier, Cage wakes up to find what it would have been like to marry her — kids and all. Once the powerful president of a multi-billion firm, he abruptly finds himself a family man working at his father-in-law's tire store as a tire salesman, married to his sweetheart, with two precocious children and less than $200 in his checkbook. It's a charming if predictable film that could have easily done without the handful of references to the Lord's name in vain. It also contains two brief references to sexual situations (one of which is in the context of a marital relationship), but is otherwise tame by Hollywood standards. Rated PG-13. (Reviewer—H. L.)

The Family Stone. All-star cast, including Dermot Mulroney, Craig T. Nelson, Sarah Jessica Parker, Luke Wilson, and Diane Keaton. If you want to see if a movie can take every biblical value and turn it on its head, this is the movie for you. Most glaring are the homosexual couple--whose lovey-dovey is in your face throughout the movie and, in the end, succeed in adopting a son-- and the mother dying of breast cancer, who swears like a sailor and wishes all of her children were gay. Then there is the pot-smoking son who "loosens up" his brother's uptight girlfriend in a local bar, and after they've been there awhile, we know she's finally on the mend because she discovers that she wants a joint. Guess who she ends up with at the end of the movie? Ah, sweet liberation. Not only does the plot not just condone but actually glorify anti-biblical values (okay, it does encourage forgiveness, but it's a small consolation prize), but it's also based on one cliche after another. So it's not just an offensive movie, but it's a downright bad movie. Don't waste your money. (Reviewer—H. L.)

1/2 Finding Forrester. Sean Connery plays a writer in seclusion who befriends a poor young kid from the ghetto who, unbeknownst to his basketball playing friends, is a real English whiz. Connery recognizes the kid's talent and begins to mentor him in a relationship that changes everyone it touches. This was a well done movie, a real pleasure. Smart, funny, and inspiring. However, there are moments of unnecessary profanity that ruin this otherwise wonderful movie. Despite its drawbacks, the themes of friendship, integrity, and love, combined with a terrific and inspiring plot, make this well worth watching for adult audiences. Rated R for language. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Finding Neverland. Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet. This film is both a bit surprising and disappointing and definitely not for younger children. Surprising, because it's not a re-telling of the Peter Pan story, but rather, the story of its origins, based on the experiences of its author, J.M. Barrie, who uses a single mother and her young children as material for the original play. It is a bit disappointing, however, because for some reason Depp and Winslet exchange all of their dialogue in near whispers; and because the movie drags along at a snail's pace before finally defining the dramatic conflict: a single mother is dying and facing leaving four small children behind. Depp, playing the already famous playwright, takes the family on as his own, while neglecting his already estranged wife. Set in London at the turn of the century, Neverland is a richly filmed period piece that tells a touching tale; but it is presented with almost too much reverence for the subject matter. Younger children would likely be very disturbed by the failing health of the mother and the apparent plight of the children she leaves behind. Otherwise, there's little at all that might be considered objectionable material, beyond an instance or two of mild language. Nevertheless, consider this strictly an adult movie for those who would like to see the evolution of a classic work of literature and who have the patience to sit through its quiet authenticity without falling asleep. (Reviewer — G. P.)

For the Love of the Game. Kevin Costner stars in this drama about a 40-year old pitcher, Billy Chapel, for the Detroit Tigers who, after a losing season and suffering from an elbow injury, must re-evaluate his life, including his five-year relationship with his girlfriend, Jane. Although this movie has its charm — the plot portrayed largely in flashbacks during the biggest game in Chapel's life — the character's values are worldly, and Costner's character seems to have no trouble asking the Lord for help during a game, then, almost immediately, follow this up with the taking of His name in vain. This movie contains a lot of casual profanity, including the Lord's name being dragged through the mud, and casual sex isn't seen a problem of any kind. Rated PG-13 for language and strong sexual innuendo, although it contains no bedroom scenes or nudity. (Reviewer—H. L.)

1/2. Friday Night Lights. Billy Bob Thornton. Normally, I find that high school sports movies are good for a weekend feel-good pick-me-up, and since this one promised to "leave you cheering," I thought it would be no exception. Instead, the movie is first and foremost about a town so obsessed with high school football and winning the state champtonship that fathers beat and humiliate their sons, the sons drink and party to alleviate the stress, and the town's men, wearing shiny gold over-sized state championship rings from their own fleeting high school football days, hover around the coach like bees to put in their two cents to ensure that their own legacy of high school football fame lives on in their children. All of this, along with a very long party scene of teenagers partying and having sex, are shot in the rapid-cut, shaky camera style meant to simulate real-life action and cut to sad, depressing music. When the team's star player is hurt, the pressure is on for the rest of the team to make up for the team's loss, in spite of any personal sacrifices they might need to make. After 40 minutes, I gave up on this film and felt better the minute I took it out of the player.  Not only was it depressing and pathetic, but it was boring. Just scene after scene portraying the sad, empty, hurting lives of the characters, none of whom were in the least likeable, as the plot moved forward at a snail's pace.  I have no idea how the movie ends. Nor do I care. (Reviewer — H. L.)

Gangs of New York. (R, released 2003). Leonardio DiCaprio, Daniel Day Lewis. It's tempting to want to watch this period film, set in the late 1800s, about the gangs that plagued the poverty- and crime-stricken Five Points Mission area of New York, for its costumes and historic nostalgia, but there is nothing in this movie of redeeming worth. From the opening scene — with its plaintive music as two rival gangs hack each other to death with axes and other chopping instruments — to the defining moment of DiCaprio's character early in the film, when he is released from Catholic orphan reform school and dumps his parting gift, a Bible, into the river below, this movie chronicles the hopelessness and immorality of street life. In order to avenge his father's death in the street fight, DiCaprio joins the ranks of the gang run by the man who killed his father and the movie follows his daily life from one immoral act to the other. There is not one person in this film with integrity or moral fiber; and God and His people are treated with overt distain. I am sorry to say that I made it through one hour of this three-hour movie — stubbornly insisting on giving this "historic film" a chance — before giving up. It is dark, empty, and revolting at nearly every moment. I am assuming that DiCaprio eventually hacks his father's murderer — now his boss, a murderous thug who teaches him which knife wounds bleed and which ones kill — to death at the end of the film, but that will have to be left to the imagination. Absolutely stay away from this film. (Reviewer — H. L. )

1/2 Girl With a Pearl Earring. Based on a novel by Tracy Chevalier, “Girl With A Pearl Earring” imagines the origins of the famous painting of the same name by Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer. This is a beautifully made film featuring Scarlett Johansson (“The Horse Whisperer,” “Lost in Translation”) as a young maid who gets drawn against her will into becoming the subject of Vermeer’s famous portrait. Set in 17th century Holland, the entire film is an extended graphic feast, with sets and lighting that continually remind us that this is about a work of grand artistry. It’s also a story of power and seduction, pitting a lecherous patron of Vermeer against the artist’s desperate need as a painter to support his wife and family. Combining gorgeous cinematography with the quiet drama of desire, this is a compelling story and a pleasure to watch. There’s only one brief scene that might make the most sensitive viewers uncomfortable (showing two people, fully clothed and standing, engaged in a brief scene of what appears to be love-making, though that is left largely to the imagination). Otherwise, it’s completely free of language or other objectionable material. As a counterpoint to Hollywood action films, “Girl With A Pearl Earring” offers an engaging tale about the world of the artist, the making of art, and the hardships of northern European social life during the time of the Renaissance. Rated PG-13 for suggested sexual content. (Reviewer — G. P.)

1/2 Gladiator. Overall, this is a terrific movie that depicts the life of a Roman military leader, a man of integrity who is betrayed, and through the cruel twists and turns of his life, finds himself enslaved as a Roman gladiator. Once a valiant leader, he must now fight to the death for the amusement of the crowd. Although the movie is violent, it is appropriate in context. The tragedy of this film is that this man of valor finds his strength in the worship of his ancestors, and his hope and certainty is in an afterlife outside of that described in the scriptures. There is no sexual content or offensive language, and without the false theological system, this would have been an excellent movie for adult viewers. But because of its theology, however, it must be given a "caution." Rated R. (Reviewer—H. L.)

Good Boy. This one is strictly for kids. Unfortunately, it’s neither interesting nor clever and contains nothing to recommend it. The story is that dogs—who are actually superior to humans—originated in outer space but have gone soft while living on Earth and are failing to live up to their status by allowing their owners to dominate them. Therefore, the Top Dog is coming to Earth to investigate and, if not satisfied, will recall all the dogs to their home planet. The kids and the dogs must find a way to keep this from happening. There’s a bit of crude humor (gaseous) and some cute looks at dogs whose mouths move when they talk, but nothing really works in this film. The plot is so improbable, simplistic, and shallow that it’s not likely to be satisfying even for the most naïve of children. Very disappointing, and in this reviewer’s opinion, a complete waste of time and money. Rated PG. (Reviewer — G. P.)

 Good Night and Good Luck. PG. George Clooney's award-winning treatment of Edward R. Morrow's attack on the infamous Joseph McCarthy hearings of the 1950's is informative, but tedious to watch. Filmed in black and white and featuring a smoking cigarette in every actor's hand, it has a documentary feel to it that keeps it from every really expanding into a fully fleshed out movie. Even the broad-sweep of McCarthy's communist witch-hunt  is never really captured here. Actual news footage of McCarthy, himself, offers some historical value;  and no doubt the inner workings of Murrow's  legendary news show are portrayed accurately, based on the career of Clooney's own father who was himself a well-known local newscaster in the Midwest. However, this film leaves you feeling as if there's more to the story than is being told. Morrow's courageous stand against McCarthy's bullying is a story worth telling. But it makes for a film that has a limited appeal. (Reviewer — G. P.)

The Green Mile. This movie offers occult garbage packaged as a spiritually uplifting film. While the movie claims to be a film about "the enduring life of the human spirit,” all we see of the human spirit is that it is punished, plagued, and defeated by the forces of evil and death. The only life that comes from the main character (a Hollywood-ized Christ figure) is magic, portrayed as some mysterious "force" akin to miracles. The 10-minute trailer that follows reveals the source of the problem: Steven King, who is the originator of this philosophical poison. The movie contains profanity, physically ugly conduct, morally objectionable visuals, and spiritually untrue themes, all packaged in a powerful wash of Hollywood filmmaking. From a Hollywood perspective, this looks and sounds like a grand spiritual epic, but if Christians are curious about why it got so much attention, they should resist the tickling of their ears. Rated R. (Reviewer—G.P.)