Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Released:   May 2011

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««1/2     

Movie Summary:

Captain Jack Sparrow is back in the fourth installment of “Pirates of the Caribbean”!  This time, Jack is forced by the legendary pirate, Blackbeard, and his ruthless daughter Angelica, to go aboard their ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge.  They believe Jack knows where the mystical Fountain of Youth is and force him to take them there.  The pirates soon find out they’re not the only ones searching for the Fountain. 

I think “Pirates 4” is a waste of time, too boring and (exactly matching the title) strange!  I wish the old cast would be in this movie, but only Jack Sparrow and Captain Barbossa return.  This film has fair acting, some good action sequences and amazing scenery, but a weird plot and weird new characters weaken the movie.  “On Stranger Tides” doesn’t quite sail.              

                   

             

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Thor

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Thor

Released:   May 2011

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««««     

Movie Summary:

Thor, the God of Thunder, is a self-centered warrior who lives in the mystical kingdom of Asgard, located in the far reaches of outer space.  He is about to be crowned King of Asgard by his father, King Odin, when an attack by a race of frost-giants postpones Thor’s crowning.  Furious, Thor, along with his warrior friends, seek to wipe out the frost-giants in revenge of the attack.  As punishment for Thor’s careless actions, King Odin banishes him from Asgard and sends him to Earth where he finds himself a normal human being without the powers he possessed in Asgard.  He meets scientist Jane Foster, her mentor Erik, and assistant Darcy.  They befriend him and teach him some valuable life lessons about humility.  When evil forces sent from Asgard threaten Earth, Thor must gather the courage to fight for his friends and save the world. 

Despite its cheesiness and fair acting performances, I think “Thor” is still a great superhero movie and has some cool special effects and exciting action!  Also, make sure you stay through the credits for an additional scene!  “Thor” is a movie you won’t want to miss!

                  

Thunder to the theater to see “Thor”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Rio

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Rio

Released:   April 2011

Movie Rating:  G

Star Rating: «« «1/2

Movie Summary:

Blu, a flightless blue macaw, is transported to Rio de Janiero, along with his owner Linda, in order to preserve his species with the last blue macaw on the planet, Jewel, who was found in Rio.  But when bird smugglers capture Blu and Jewel and plot to sell them, can Blu and Jewel escape the smugglers and return home?  Meanwhile, Blu ponders whether to pursue life with Jewel in his true home in the rain forests, or return to his normal life with Linda. 

“Rio” is a colorful, fun family film, but I think it could have used some additional excitement and humor. 

‘Fly’ to the theater and see “Rio”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Soul Surfer

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Soul Surfer

Released:   April 2011

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: ««««    

Movie Summary:

“Soul Surfer” tells the true story of Bethany Hamilton, a 13-year girl who lives for surfing.  She and her surfing family live in a beach house in Hawaii.  Life for Bethany seems to be perfect, until one day, when surfing with friends, she suddenly gets attacked by a shark, leaving her without an arm.  Bethany almost dies because of blood loss.  eHHhhhHHer family, as well as her faithful and optimistic doctor, nurse her back to health.  Following many days of recovery, Bethany is released from the hospital and soon discovers how her life has changed by the tragic event.  She decides she wants to surf again, even despite her handicap.  Bethany’s positive attitude, strong faith and courage start to influence the people around her.  She begins to realize how much she took her life for granted and is grateful for the second chance.  Not only is reach deep within herself to help others in need, she is determined to find the ability and courage to return to surfing once again.

“Soul Surfer” is a touching, emotional and inspiring film about believing in yourself no matter what, never giving up even when the hardest of times approach, and always make the most of your life.  The movie is headed up by a superb cast, led by AnnaSophia Robb, who does an awesome job portraying Bethany.  “Soul Surfer” is a movie that you don’t want to miss!              

Surf’s up!  Grab your board and head to the theater to see “Soul Surfer”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Source Code

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Source Code

Released:   March 2011

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««««     

Movie Summary:

Cpt. Colter Stevens, a helicopter pilot from Afghanistan, suddenly finds himself in the
“Source Code”, a mysterious program in which he can enter a person’s body for the final eight minutes of his or her life.   Colter is recruited by the heads of the Source Code Program to track down and locate the person responsible for plotting to bomb a freight train.  Colter fails the program over and over, but he continues to re-enter the program.  He stops at nothing to protect the passengers of the train and stop the bomber’s plot from becoming reality.   

“Source Code” is a little confusing at times, but otherwise, it’s an awesome, exciting and suspenseful thriller that packs a solid punch.

Take “time” to head to the theater to see this awesome movie!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Rango

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Rango

Released:   March 2011

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: ««1/2     

Movie Summary:

Rango is a pet chameleon who’s having a hard time figuring out his real identity.  When he unexpectedly gets stranded in the barren Mojave Desert, he finds his way through the land and comes upon a small town known as Dirt.  Rango tries to blend in the town, so he convinces the citizens of Dirt that he is a legendary gunslinger who was known throughout the West.  The citizens believe him, and so does the Mayor of Dirt.  When an evil band of thieves, led by the famous Rattlesnake Jake, attempt to take over the town and steal their only water resource, Rango must be the hero he portrayed in order to restore peace to Dirt.  

“Rango” is a dark, action-packed Western that lacks comedy as well as heart.    The movie, however, does have a good moral to always believe in yourself, be your own person and don’t try to act a certain way just to fit in. 

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The Movie Critic, Connor

The King's Speech

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    The King’s Speech

Released:   December 2010

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: «« ««

Movie Summary:

George VI, also known as Bertie, has suffered from a speech impediment ever since he was a child.  His wife, Elizabeth, wants to help him, so she hires Lionel Logue, a speech therapist, to help Bertie.  Over the course of time, Lionel begins to change Bertie’s life, as well as helping him overcome his impediment.  They soon become friends.  Bertie’s father suddenly dies.  And to make matters worse, Bertie’s brother, Edward, next in line, decides to abdicate the thrown, therefore Bertie is made King.  When World War II begins, Bertie, with the help of Lionel, must make a radio broadcast speech to rally the forces of England against Hitler. 

“The King’s Speech” is an inspiring movie that teaches everyone to always believe in yourself and remain firm, even in the darkest of times.  Headed by a great cast, led by Colin Firth, who shows excellence in portraying King George VI, and Geoffrey Rush, who does an incredible job in playing Lionel Logue.  “The King’s Speech” won 4 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Colin Firth), and Best Director (Tom Hooper).  “The King’s Speech” contains some language, but otherwise, it is a great movie that I would highly recommend!  

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I ask that you watch this incredible movie!”

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Tron: Legacy

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Tron: Legacy

Released:   December 2010

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: ««««    

Movie Summary:

Electronic extraordinaire Kevin Flynn is the owner to a large electronic empire known as Encom Industries.  His son, Sam, looks up to him, but one day his dad unexpectedly disappears out of nowhere.  Sam runs away, scared and lonely, and 15 years later, Sam discovers his dad’s arcade.  Unexpectedly transported to a virtual universe known as the Grid, he finds out that in order to escape the game and get back into the real world, he must fight to survive a dangerous gladiatorial competition.  Sam soon meets his dad, who has been trapped in the game since Sam was a kid.  Kevin explains to Sam that one of his virtual creations, Clu, has turned evil and turned against him, threatening to destroy him.  Together, Sam and Flynn battle Clu and his army of warriors and they, along with Kevin’s loyal assistant and friend Quorra, fight to survive the game and escape. 

“Tron: Legacy” is an awesome sci-fi action film, with some impressive special effects, and exciting action sequences.  I’d recommend seeing this movie in 3D.         

Get on your lightcycle and speed to the theater to see “Tron: Legacy”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Released:   December 2010

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: «««1/2  

Movie Summary:

The next chapter in the Chronicles of Narnia unfolds as Lucy and Edmund Pevensie, along with their arrogant cousin Eustace, are transported to Narnia through a magical portrait and come aboard a Narnian ship, the Dawn Treader.  They meet up with familiar friends, along with new ones.  The Pevensies and the crew of the Dawn Treader join forces and embark on a dangerous journey across the sea, exploring mysterious islands to find seven long-lost lords of Narnia. 

I think “Dawn Treader” is a good family movie, but it isn’t as fun and exciting as its predecessors.                     

Embark on a “Voyage” to the theater to see “The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Tangled

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Tangled

Released:   November 2010

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: ««««    

Movie Summary:

Rapunzel is a young girl who was locked away in a tall tower ever since she was little.  She longs to venture outside of the tower and into the real world.  Meanwhile, Wanted Thief Flynn Rider escapes the kingdom after stealing the queen’s crown and hides in a tower, the tower in which Rapunzel lives!  She takes him hostage and makes a deal with him--if he takes her outside the tower and to the kingdom, then she will not turn him in to the authorities.  He agrees.  When Rapunzel steps outside of the tower and into the real world, she discovers that the world is more dangerous than she had expected.  Together, they embark on an adventure to the kingdom, all while discovering that in each other is the key to accomplishing their dreams. 

“Tangled” is a good, solid family film that has no suggestive content in it and that parents, as well as kids, will enjoy. 

 

Get Tangled Up in “Tangled”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1

Released:   November 2010

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««««

Movie Summary:

Harry, Ron, and Hermione are back to embark on an extremely dangerous journey across the wizarding world to find and destroy the five hidden Horcruxes, so that they can defeat Voldemort once and for all.  Hunted and chased down by Voldemort and his team of Death Eaters and Snatchers, can Harry and his friends find the Horcruxes and destroy them so that Voldemort can be defeated and the wizarding world will be at peace?  

“Deathly Hallows Part 1” is a good movie, with lots of action and suspense, and cool special effects.  This is a Harry Potter you don’t want to miss.  Ends with a bang and all you Harry Potter fans out there will be on the edge of your seat, eagerly waiting for “Part 2” to hit the theaters.                

   

Grab your wands and head to the theater to see “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Megamind

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Megamind

Released:   November 2010

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: ««««1/2   

Movie Summary:

Megamind and Metro Man have always been rivals.  Metro Man is a superhero that the people of Metro City look up to as their protector and hero.  Megamind is a super-villain who, through many attempts to take over Metro City, has failed, thanks to Metro Man.  When Megamind finally defeats Metro Man, he discovers that his life’s “purpose” has been accomplished, but now that there is no hero to stand up against him-- the city of Metro City is all his!   So, he takes DNA of Metro Man and creates a new superhero: Titan, who will protect the city and rise up against him.  Titan thinks that being evil is what he can do best, so he turns evil and threatens Metro City.  Megamind then realizes that the only way to save the city is to stop Titan.  With the help of his trusted Minion and a fearless news reporter, can Megamind actually become a hero and save Metro City before time runs out?  

“Megamind” is a MEGA-funny and MEGA-awesome movie that is packed with action, humor and heart!  I think “Megamind” is a great family film! 

        

You’d be out of your “mind” not to see this movie!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'hoole

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’hoole

Released:   September 2010

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: ««1/2   

Movie Summary:

Sorren is an adventurous barn owl who’s eager to start flying and venture out of the tree in which he has lived in since he was an owlet with his family.  Soon he and his brother are bird-napped and taken to a dark kingdom ruled by an evil owl, Nyra, and her husband, Metal Beak, who plot to take over all the owl kingdoms and rule over them.  Sorren befriends an owl there named Gylfie, and together they manage to escape the kingdom.  They, along with some new owl friends, embark on a perilous journey to the Great Tree, where the legendary Guardians of Ga’hoole live.  Sorren and his friends team with the Guardians to defeat Nyra and Metal Beak and save the owl kingdoms from ruin. 

“Legend of the Guardians” contains many dark scenes and violent battle sequences, which may frighten young viewers.   Although there was some impressive animation and cool flying scenes,   I thought “Guardians” could have been a much better movie.    

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Despicable Me

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Despicable Me

Released:   July 2010

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: «««1/2    

Movie Summary:

Gru is a super-villain who wants to conquer the world.  He lives in a dark old house in the middle of a lively neighborhood, where he plots evilness along with the help of his assistant Dr. Nefario, and a team of pint-size minions.  His latest plot involves stealing the moon by shrinking it with a shrink ray.  His plot is intercepted when a new super-villain, Vector, steals Gru’s shrink ray and plans to steal the moon himself.  Gru and Vector end up battling against each other, as they each plot to steal the moon and become the most famous and greatest super-villain on the planet.  Vector soon wins and gains control of the shrink ray, hiding it in his villainous lair.  Gru, through many failed attempts to get in Vector’s lair, thinks up an evil plan.  He adopts three orphan girls who he plans to use to gain access to Vector’s lair, steal back the shrink ray and the moon, and become the “top villain”.  Through the course of time, the orphan girls begin to turn Gru’s life upside down and he begins to rethink his life.

 “Despicable Me” is a good movie, but the rude humor in the film stops it short from becoming a “better” movie that I would have enjoyed.            

It would be “Despicable” of you not to see this movie!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Inception

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Inception

Released:   July 2010

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««««1/2

 Movie Summary:

“Inception” tells the story of master thief Dom Cobb, who makes his living stealing the ideas of rich corporate figures by traveling inside their dreams.  However, he soon finds himself struggling to piece together whether he’s in a dream or reality.  Soon, Dom is hired to carry out inception by implanting an idea inside the subconscious mind of Robert Fischer.   Fischer is the son of a wealthy and powerful business entrepreneur and is heir to his father’s company.  Dom assembles a team of comrades and heads into Fischer’s mind.  When they are pursued by unexpected enemies, Dom and his allies must fight to carry out inception and escape the dream before they are trapped forever.

“Inception” is a smart and exciting sci-fi thriller, with breathtaking visual effects, solid performances, and some of the best action sequences I’ve ever seen on film.  Despite its thick plot and occasionally slow pacing, “Inception” proves to be quite an epic dream indeed.                              

 

Dream on and check out this awesome sci-fi flick!   

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Toy Story 3

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Toy Story 3

Released:   June 2010

Movie Rating:  G

Star Rating: «««1/2    

Movie Summary:

Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the toy gang return for a huge adventure!  Eleven years have passed and Andy is now a grown teenager preparing to set off for college.   Not only are all the toys gathering dust in Andy's room, but their hearts are saddened as they face the hard fact that Andy has outgrown them.  Andy's mom decides to donate all the toys to a local daycare center, known as Sunnyside, so that they can be played with by the daycare children.  They meet a new assembly of toys, including a purple octopus named Stretch, a scented teddy bear named Lotso and the original Ken doll.  The toys begin to miss Andy, so they hatch a daring plan to escape the daycare center and return to Andy’s house.  However, an evil gang of toys stop at nothing to make sure that Woody and the gang don’t escape the daycare center.       

"Toy Story 3" is a funny and touching movie, but surprisingly darker than most of the Pixar films.                       

"To Infinite And Beyond" to the theater to see "Toy Story 3"!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

The Karate Kid (2009)

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:  The Karate Kid (2010)    

Released:   June 2010

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: ««««1/2    

Movie Summary:

Dre Parker is a young boy who enjoys living in Detroit, Michigan.  But one day, Dre’s mom has a job transfer and they have to move to China, much to Dre’s dislike.  He goes to a new school with different people.  One day a gang of school bullies start to pick on him and bully him.  Dre feels helpless and weak.  When the bullies attack him again, he tries to fight back but can’t.  He ends up being rescued by Mr. Han, a local handyman, who knows Kung Fu very well.  Dre asks Mr. Han if he could teach him Kung Fu, and soon Mr. Han agrees.  After a lot of strenuous drills and daily practice, Dre learns Kung Fu.  Later, Mr. Han feels that Dre is prepared, so he enters him in a Kung Fu Tournament against a rival Kung Fu Team, which happens to have the same bullies that picked on Dre.  Can Dre become a Kung Fu hero and stand up to his enemies?  Can he win the Kung Fu Tournament? 

“The Karate Kid” is a good movie and teaches respect and how to stand up for what you believe in.  It also teaches a lesson to always get back up, even when life pushes you down.   

Get to the Theatre to see this movie…..Chop!  Chop!

      

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The Movie Critic, Connor