Tron: Legacy (2010)

When I first saw the trailer to this film, it looked like an interesting movie with a neat concept. Though, it really looked like it would cater more to the fans of the first one. I was right.

Going into the film, I had no background about the original movie - I've never seen it. Though, I knew it existed as well as the video game. So, I was pretty much going into the film blindly - not a good idea.

From the very start, I was a bit lost with the storyline and the characters. Though I was not completely lost, I found it kind of hard to follow and put the pieces together without having seen the first movie.

Many times there were references to the first film shifting from the past to the present and back again. Since I am unfamiliar with the original story, it was a bit difficult for me to comprehend some of the concepts and ideas in the movie.

Though, I think there were some neat things about the film. To me, it felt very much like I was watching a movie in the past. It really felt very "80s like" and retro looking. But, I think they wanted to make it that way for the fans of the original.

Also, there were some pretty neat special effects in the "electronic world." I especially enjoyed the visuals with the action scenes - they were done very uniquely to the film. And, I think the soundtrack was done very well to match the overall feeling of the movie.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about. I thought the music soundtrack catered quite well especially to the action scenes).

As for the storyline, I felt a bit lost. Though, it's probably because I have not seen the original film. This is definitely one movie where it's important to see the first one beforehand.

If I had seen the first movie and had been more familiar with the concepts and ideas introduced in the original, it may have been easier for me to follow. Though, I do think it was really neat that the movie touched upon the concept of artificial intelligence.

(Note: I don't want to ruin it for those who have not seen the film, but let's just say the concept and ideas are a bit similar to this movie).

Overall, I really think this film was made for the fans of the original. If you are a fan of the original movie, you will probably understand this film better than most people.

For those who have not seen the original, it's best to see the first one beforehand. And, in my opinion (unless you are a fan of the original and really feel the need to see it) - wait for the DVD.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: NEUTRAL

(Note: For another perspective on the film, check out my pal Action Flick Chick's review. Thanks for reading!)

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!



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Splice (2009)

"She's not human...not entirely."

- Splice

When I first saw the trailer to this film, it didn't look like something that I really wanted to see. So, I held off on seeing it. Though, it did peak my curiosity...just a bit.

Recently, I made the decision to go ahead and check it out. Going into the movie, I had heard some really bad reviews about it. And, I knew going in - I may not like it.

But, I guess my curiosity got the better of me. Was it worth it? To be honest, I think it was executed pretty badly but had some really good entertainment value (kind of like this movie).

In a way, I guess the trailer can be a bit misleading. When I first saw the trailer, I thought I knew what the movie was going to be all about. And, I assumed the film would just take place in one location. But, I was wrong.

At first, the film is a bit slow. It introduces you to the characters and their lives. At times, the first couple of scenes felt kind of slow.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

But, the movie does take a turn (about halfway through). To be honest, it really surprised me. From there, let me just say - the events that happened were pretty unexpected. Quite frankly, I was shocked at some of the scenes and events that took place in the film - it truly threw me for a loop.

(Note: For those who have not seen the movie yet, I don't want to ruin it for you but let's me just say - there were a lot of "in your face" type moments that really shocked me).

In my opinion, I guess some of the scenes and events were really quite unexpected and a bit over the top. But, at the same time - it really did have some entertainment value. To be honest, I was stunned yet entertained at the same time. There were some parts of the movie that were so out there yet amused me at the same time.

(Note: For those who have seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

As for the movie itself, I think it had an interesting storyline. Though, it just was not executed that well. And, I think they could have made the story better.

There were parts that were interesting but at the same time - parts that were just too unbelievable and over the top. I think if they changed a few things with the script, it could have worked with better execution.

If you're looking for a really good sci-fi movie with a good storyline and meaning, this film is probably not the best pick. Though, if you enjoy sci-fi type films and want to be entertained in a comedic way - I'd say this film does have some entertainment value.

(Note: When I say "comedic way," it's style and entertainment value can be kind of compared to this movie).

All in all, I'd say this movie would be really fun to watch with a group (if there's nothing else out there to watch). To be honest, I have no more words for this film - I really don't know what else to say. It was both intriguing yet shocking and amusing to watch at the same time.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: NEUTRAL

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!



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Predators (2010)

"Fear is reborn."

- Predators

I've been really looking forward to this film based on the original movie series.

Since it was produced by Robert Rodriquez and his production company "Troublemaker Studios," I knew this movie would have a lot of action - it definitely did. And, it was worth it.

From the very first scene, it was action all the way. The first scene was pretty crazy. I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say it felt like a roller coaster ride.

Throughout the movie, it's almost as if you have to be alert at all times. There are many scenes that really jilted and surprised me as if I were in the scene itself. You never know if something is going to come out of nowhere or not. Watching the film was definitely an experience.

Regarding the film itself, I liked how it played true to the original movie. From the music to the overall look of the film, it really brought me back to the original "Predator."

Like the original, this film was set in a jungle like atmosphere. Though, there's a slight twist regarding the setting of the film. I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say it's not what you expect.

Speaking of expectations, this film really had a lot of twists and turns. There were a few scenes where I expected something to happen or not happen, and the movie really went in another direction. At times, I was surprised though pleased with the outcome of some of the scenes - it really did feel like a roller coaster ride.

I think Adrien Brody (who played one of the main characters) gave a really good performance. His character was another one that had a bit of a surprise - I thought I had him figured out. Though, there was a point in the film where his actions really surprised me. The same goes for a few of the other characters (I won't ruin it for you).

(Note: I'm not going to go into too much detail on the plot and the storyline as I don't want to ruin the film for you. Usually, I try to be as less concrete as possible in my reviews and focus more on concepts (as opposed to overall plot and description) to give you a general idea of my thoughts and opinions without giving away too much. As a movie goer, I feel that a bt of mystery is all part of the movie watching experience).

Overall, I enjoyed the film. It was a mix of sci-fi with a lot of action. And, it played true to the original. The twists and turns really did throw me for a loop - I was entertained throughout. This movie did not disappoint.

If you're in the mood for a sci-fi type of film with a lot of action, I definitely recommend this one.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. If you've joined my Facebook Page already, I just wanted to say "thanks" for your support. If you know anyone else who may have an interest in film and movies, feel free to send them over. Thanks!



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The Thirteenth Floor (1999)

"I think therefore I am."

- Descartes

Since I was in a sci-fi mood, I decided to check this film out. To say the least, it was definitely an interesting film.

Basically, it's a movie about identity. Sometimes we may think we know who we are only to find out what we thought we knew was all a lie. One day, we wake up from our trance and really see our lives and the world we live in for what it really is.

And, sometimes when we know the truth we don't like what we see. Sometimes we can't handle the truth.

This film makes no exception to that statement. There are some who continue to accept their fate, continue to live and accept the way things are. And, then there are others who refuse to accept what cards are dealt to them - they fight back in an attempt to create the life they want, the life they thought they had - not the life they actually have.

During the beginning of the film, as the audience you think you know the whole story. Everything starts to come together to set the tone and storyline - it seems simple enough.

However, there's a turning point in the movie where things change - this part of the film really baffled my mind. I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say this movie definitely took me for a ride - the twist is the cherry on top that makes this film really mind blowing. (literally!)

(Note: This film is comparable to "The Matrix" in nature - it deals with a lot of the same concepts).

There were a lot of parts in the movie that really kept me guessing - I wanted to see more. And, when I thought I knew what would happen something else would fall into place - it was unpredictable.

Overall, I really enjoyed the film. It had a lot of twists and turns which is a definite plus in my book. And, since I enjoy psychological type of films this one really took me for a mind trip.

If you're in the mood for a sci-fi type of movie, I definitely recommend this one.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!



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Pandorum (2009)

Hi Everyone! I'm sorry I haven't had the chance to post that much lately, I've been pretty sick. I've been trying to get better, been drinking lots of fluids and getting a lot of rest. Though, I have managed to find the effort to watch a couple of movies!

Since I was in the mood for sci-fi, I decided to check this film out. It's weird, I've been seeing a lot of films lately with Dennis Quaid (I guess he's been in a lot of movies!).

Going into this movie, I really didn't know what to expect. What got me was the tagline of the film, "Fear what happens next." So, I was really thinking it may be a horror/sci-fi type of film.

In the beginning, it really kind of started out and introduced the passengers of the ship. There is some mystery on how they got there and what they were exactly set out to do. (If you've seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

When the first couple of characters are introduced, there was a lot of dialogue and talking - the scene and background was being set. The film has a mix of some action and dialogue at first. It does start off a bit slow.

Though, it begins to pick up pace once the crew members of the ship start to do some exploring. It then becomes more of an adventure type movie with a sci-fi twist. (I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say if you liked this film it's very similar in nature).

When the action and adventure takes place, this is really when I got into the film. Though the whole movie took place on the ship, there was a lot of exploring done which really lead to a lot of twists and turns. (If you've seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

It really becomes more of a "mind trip," and maze of survival for the members of the crew. This is the part of the film I really enjoyed. And yes, there is a twist at the end. It's hard to describe only to say again it's definitely a "mind trip" kind of movie.

Overall, I enjoyed the film. It did start out a bit slow, though the story and situation of the crew was a bit complicated. So, it's understandable how they had to take the time to set the tone and feel of the film.

After awhile, the film did pick up and I really did enjoy the adventure of the film. And, the ending was definitely worth it. (I won't spoil it for you but it was definitely "mind blowing").

If you're in the mood for a sci-fi type of film, I definitely recommend this one.

Happy movie watching!

p.s. If you have Facebook, I now have a Facebook page. Feel free to connect with me here and post up comments/questions on the wall. I will be updating the page with the latest posts and movie news. Looking forward to connecting with you!



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Moon (2009)

"Where are we now?"

- Moon

Recently, I had the opportunity to see this film which premiered at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival.

Let me just say, rarely do I see films like this one that really challenge our minds and intellect. This is a film that really raises some ethical questions about the human race and its impact and affect on artificial intelligence. (I don't want to spoil it for you, but let's just say it's similar in nature to this movie).

This is a film that makes you think and question what it will be like in the future. The above quote sums it all. Though, I would like to add in addition we should also be asking ourselves the question, "Who are we now?"

It seems like the human race has come a long way advancing technology. But, at what cost? At what point do we say, enough is enough. And, who determines what is right and wrong?

Sometimes advancements in technology can go too far. And, when things go too far there are serious consequences.

I really enjoyed this film from beginning to end. It kept my attention throughout the movie. I especially liked the twists and turns with the plot, which really surprised me. (If you've seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

Also, I enjoyed the special effects and the music in the film. There were a few scary images (especially in the beginning), which I really liked as well. (Note: If you've seen the film, I highly encourage you to watch the Q & A sessions about the film
(in the "Special Features" section), with the filmmaker, Duncan Jones, as it will help to answer questions about certain elements of the movie).

Overall, I really liked this film. It is a bit slow paced, it is not an action movie. Though, I liked the story and the way it challenged questions about humankind - it really made me think.

If you're in the mood for a sci-fi type of film, I highly recommend this one. Check it out!

Happy movie watching!



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Avatar

Lately, I've been really debating whether to see this film or not. (Had many conversations back and forth with my tweep ReelTalker about the film).

After seeing the movie trailer the first time, I still wasn't sure. So, I read a couple reviews - they were mixed. Some people enjoyed the film, while others did not.

Being James Cameron's next big film after Titanic, I was really intrigued. There was a lot of hype about the amount of money and time put into this film. Apart from that, I've heard James Cameron is a really great storyteller.

After much debate, I decided to go ahead and fork out the money to see the film. There is the option of seeing the movie in 3D - I wasn't quite sure which route to take. Though, I decided to go ahead and see it in 3D since the film was made for it. I'm glad I did.

Let me just say, seeing the film in 3D really was an awesome experience. Not just because the film was made for 3D, it was also because the film was a futuristic type movie. Being a film set in the future, watching the film in 3D just gave for a better movie watching experience.

I felt like I was right there in that world the entire time - I felt a part of it. If you plan on seeing the film, I definitely recommend seeing it in 3D.

Speaking of 3D, the special effects and animation were great. In a way, it was a different type of animation - very different from what I've seen before. The characters and animals in the "Avatar" like world were very different and unique. Each character and/or animal had very detailed and unique features. Even the language(s) spoken were very unique in their own way.

Watching the film, it felt like Cameron put a lot of thought and time into this film. It was very aesthetically pleasing to the eye - the scenery and the "Avatar" like world alone is breathtaking. I could tell there's a lot of details in the film to make Cameron's world come to life.

As for the storyline, it was very unique in its own way. Some aspects of it reminded me of this film. (If you've seen the movie, you'll know what I'm talking about).

The story itself is really about perspective. Throughout the film, you see the situation from different points of view. This is what sets the tone of the film. And, from the different perspectives you learn more and more about why they are there in the first place and each character's purpose for being there.

Though you are presented with different perspectives in the beginning, the main story is told through the main character's, Jake Sully (played by Sam Worthington), viewpoint.

However, his perspective begins to change once he puts himself in the shoes of the very beings (aka The Na'vi People) he is sent to seek out (and if need be destroy) in the name of claiming their precious mineral, unobtainium.

The story unfolds as Sully learns the way of The Na'vi People, and learns they are not the ones who are "savages." (aka the term the Humans have given them). He learns of their ways to live simply and preserve nature - their way of life really opens up his eyes.

Though, not everyone sees what Sully sees. And, this is where the conflict begins. There are those who just want to take and claim the precious mineral for their own in the name of greed and power. And, the question then is posed - who are the real savages here?

Overall, I enjoyed the film. I felt entertained for the entire movie. Though, I have to admit - this is not a film for everyone. After seeing it, I can understand why this may be a film for those who are very interested in the "fantasy" and "sci-fi" type genres. It's a good movie, but I can't say it's a great one. Though, I'm glad I went and saw it.

If you're in the mood for a fantasy and/or sci-fi type film, I recommend seeing it (and in 3D). Though, if you don't consider yourself a "fantasy" and/or "sci-fi" type movie goer, I'd say it's a toss up if you want to wait until it comes out on DVD. For me, I'm glad I went and saw it - it's definitely a film that kept me entertained.

(Note: For other perspectives on the movie, check out the following reviews from my tweeps:

Action Flick Chick - Review Link
Just Chick Flicks - Review Link
Kelly Whyte - Review Link
Reel Artsy - Review Link
Zen - Review Link

Happy movie watching!



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Surrogates

I have to admit, I wasn't really planning to watch this film. I didn't even know what it was about, I never even saw the trailer. Though, it was more of a spur of the moment kind of thing - I was out voted by present company but decided to give it a try.

(Note: Usually, I recommend checking out the movie trailer and reading the reviews beforehand. However, I have gone and seen movies without knowing anything about them, without reading the reviews, and/or without seeing the trailer. And, I've had both good and bad experiences. Though, I always have a story to tell with the films I see on a "whim" - it's the experience of seeing something unknown despite the outcome. And, having these experiences is what makes life interesting).

Basically, the movie is about humans living the kind of lives they've always wanted through robots (aka "surrogates'). And, these "surrogates" are the ones that go out in the world and live life while the humans (aka "the operators") stay home with their brains connected to computers to control their individual "surrogate."

Almost every human has their own "surrogate." And, their "surrogate" is physically configured to look like however they want to be perceived. The surrogates do not necessarily have to look like their operator. For example, you can have a male operator with a female looking surrogate (scary thought!). Basically, the physical appearance of the surrogates lie in the hands of their operator(s).

I found the whole concept of the film very interesting. Surprisingly, the themes of the film closely resemble some of the issues we face today with the evolution of technology and the Internet. We are told the Internet is here to help us connect and communicate better with the world. In a way, that's true. However, in another way it also secludes us from the world by limiting our physical interaction with others.

Some people say that spending too much time at the computer and the Internet is unhealthy because it inhibits our communication skills and our true nature to physically interact with others. More and more we are spending a great amount of time on the Internet, and I wonder if this will contribute to a lack of verbal skills and inability to interact with others in social, face to face settings? I wonder.

With the Internet, we are free to be anonymous if we choose. And, this freedom of anonymity allows others the opportunity to become whatever they like and to be perceived however they would like due to the physical barrier the Internet provides. On the other hand, the Internet allows us to communicate with many people, some we may not have been able to reach before. The Internet truly levels the playing field of human communication. Though, at what price?

The film addresses these issues and asks the ever so lasting question, "What makes us human?" It truly opened up my eyes and made me think, "With all the changes in technology, what is in store for the human race in the future?" With the evolution of technology, when is enough, enough? And, why do we always keep wanting more? These questions are what makes humans, human and eventually why sometimes wanting too much may not be the answer.

Overall, I found the movie to be more than ok but not great. It's definitely a film that makes you think about the future and where we are headed. It does have a lot of action and kept my attention. Though, I think the story could have been better written.

At times, there were some parts that were a bit confusing especially since the film involved a lot of different characters. Also, the "special effects" were a bit comical (if you've seen the film, you'll know what I mean). Though, they tied it up in the end - it didn't have a strong ending but it did have its twists and turns resulting in an unexpected ending.

If you're in the mood for a sci-fi type movie, this one is a toss up - it's something you can see it at the theater or wait for it to come out on DVD. Either way, I think it's one of those films that's better than average but not over the top spectacular. Though, it does raise some interesting questions - it challenged me to think and question where our world is headed.

(Note: For another perspective on the film, check out my tweep's, Action Flick Chick, review).

Happy movie watching!



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District 9

Ok, I was really excited to see this movie. I heard a lot of good hype about it. I'm glad I saw it. It was amazing. Seriously.

This film starts out like a personal documentary, kind of like Blair Witch. In the first part of the movie, most of it is just setting the scene by introducing the characters and laying out the situation and how District 9 came to be.

In some parts, it was very harsh with the interactions between the humans and the aliens. The aliens were depicted more "human like" (they walk on two legs) and possess emotion but were also seen as "savages" and "animals" in the way they were treated and the conditions they were forced to live in.

In the beginning, I really did not like the main character, Wikus van de Merwe, (Sharlto Copley) who was in charge of the alien relocation operation. He, along with the other humans, treated the aliens like animals and was very harsh in his demeanor towards them. Basically, the aliens were seen as outcasts.

However, when things take a turn in the story he changes his perspective and sees the aliens in a different way. I don't want to spoil it for you, so let's just say he slowly begins to see the aliens through their eyes. Soon it becomes a case of the hunter learning how it feels to become the hunted - the prey. Very interesting change in perspective.

As far as the special effects, I was blown away by the look of the aliens and the technology presented. It was awesome. It's like something I've never seen before. Also, the underground laboratory and the scenes presented there are amazing. It truly felt like I was in right there with them. Just the angle shots and the "closeness" of the camera made it feel so real.

For all the gamers out there, if you ever played the game "Half-Life" that's what it reminds me of. During the second part of the movie, you feel like you are right in the laboratory facility just like when you play the game. It's awesome.

One thing, I do have to warn people about - do not eat while watching this movie. If you have a weak stomach (like me), it's best to not have a full meal before. There are some gory parts for the faint of heart. I'm not too big on gore so I had to look away during some of these times. But, the scenes did add to the realism and the story. Plus, some people enjoy gore so I guess they had to add that in, too!

Since I do like sci-fi, I did enjoy this movie. I would say any hard core sci-fi fans should watch this film.

I've never seen a movie like this - it totally blew me away. And, yes it was definitely worth it to watch the whole way through - the ending was amazing. I don't want to ruin it for you but let's just say the saying "Seeing is believing," holds true.

If you're in the mood for a sci-fi type movie, run don't walk and go see this movie! It's definitely worth the money.

Happy movie watching!



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Terminator Salvation

Ok, I have to admit - I was really contemplating whether to see this movie or not. Most of the reviews said it wasn't great but it was entertaining. I went ahead and saw it anyways because I figured if it was entertaining, then it would be worth the money since that's what movies are supposed to be - entertaining. I was right.

Let me first start out by saying this movie is packed with lots of ACTION. Since it's directed by McG (most known for directing music videos), the whole movie seems like a huge music video - lots of explosions and metal. Some people thought there was too much action in this film, which turned them off. However, I think it's necessary since it's basically a war film set in the future. I mean, come on, this isn't Star Trek which has less of a "war" focus and usually deals with exploration and the quest for knowledge.

All in all, I did enjoy the movie - it was entertaining. (It was definitely better than T3, which I thought was ok). Yes, there were some parts of the story that were left unanswered and some characters may have needed some more development. But, I think it was living up to what it was supposed to be - a war movie. I mean, can you imagine a "war movie" without any war scenes? That would be ridiculous.

I believe the action scenes had to be there and they had to be BIG. The last 30 minutes is really worthwhile - lots of action and explosions plus a major battle with a familiar face. (That's all I'm going to say - I won't spoil it for you).

Overall, it's definitely a movie to go see if you want to be entertained and see a good action flick. (Note: Rumor has it this is the first movie in a series - there will be more and the saga will continue. Stay tuned!)



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Top 10 Sci-Fi Movies

Since we're on the subject of Star Trek, I thought I'd take a trip down memory lane by posting up my Top 10 Sci-Fi Movies. In general, I like movies with a sense of adventure and creativity.

Here's my Top 10 Sci-Fi Movies:

1. Star Wars
2. The Matrix
3. Back to the Future
4. I, Robot
5. Minority Report
6. Aliens
7. Star Wars: Return of the Jedi
8. Donnie Darko
9. The Terminator
10. Predator

William Shatner Responds To Star Trek Director JJ Abrams

In my last post, I reviewed the Star Trek movie. I did wonder why William Shatner (aka Captain Kirk) did not appear in the movie. Now, I know why.

"In a recent article Director JJ Abrams talked about the reasons why William Shatner is not in the new Star Trek Movie. William Shatner responds to the statements in this video."




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Star Trek

Though I don't really consider myself a big fan of the series, I did go and see the movie.

Let me just say, it was an awesome movie! Worth every penny. Lots of action and character development- we find out more about the other characters. What I found especially interesting was the development with Spock - Leonard Nimoy makes a surprise appearance. J.J. Abrams did a great job directing this movie.

I highly recommend this movie. Run, don't walk and go see this movie!



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Knowing

I recently saw this movie. From the trailer, it looked like an interesting movie, though nothing we've never seen before in Hollywood.

While watching the movie, it kept me wanting to see more and asking more questions. In some parts, it seemed there was no explanation in terms of why and how things were deduced. Though, it made for an interesting storyline.

The movie can be classified as sci-fi but with some religious connotations. Some scenes could be open to religious interpretation though the movie never quite tells you exactly - it's something left to discussion.

All in all, I enjoyed the movie. There were some parts that were not fully explained. The way the movie ended was open to interpretation - it's a movie to watch with a group of people and open it for discussion afterwards.



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