Dolphin Tale

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Dolphin Tale

Released:   September 2011

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: «««1/2     

Movie Summary:

‘Dolphin Tale’ tells the story of Sawyer, a shy, withdrawn, young boy who isn’t doing well in school.  He spends most of his time playing his Nintendo DS and building model airplanes and helicopters in his garage workshop.  One day, Sawyer’s life changes when he helps free an injured dolphin whose tail was caught in a crab trap.  The dolphin is taken to a nearby aquarium facility for care.  On his way to and from school every day, Sawyer sneaks in and checks on the dolphin.  He is soon discovered and befriended by a bubbly, talkative young girl named Hazel, whose dad, Dr. Clay, runs the facility.  Sawyer soon develops a friendship with them and develops an even stronger relationship with Winter, the dolphin he helped save.  Things start to look good for Winter, but her tail becomes infected.  Dr. Clay and the marine staff decide that the only way they can save her is to amputate her tail.  Sawyer knows that without a tail, a dolphin can’t swim and thus, will not likely survive.  He seeks out the help of Dr. Cameron McCarthy, a prosthetics doctor, who soon believes he’s found the answer to the dolphin’s problems: a prosthetic tail for Winter.  Meanwhile, Winter overcomes her struggles and learns to swim with her new tail.  Winter’s story of survival, as well as the persistence of Sawyer and his friends at the aquarium facility, inspires others and those inflicted with paralyzing diseases to never give up! 

“Dolphin Tale” is a good, family-friendly, and inspiring movie that is based on a true story.          

Swim to the theater to see “Dolphin Tale”!
                        

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Released:   August 2011

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««««

Movie Summary:

‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’, a prequel to the first ‘Planet of the Apes’ movie, tells the story of how it all began!  Will Stanton is a kind-hearted research scientist in San Francisco whose strong persistence to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease leads him to experiment on apes.  He finds a chance for a cure in one ape, who’s intelligence increased dramatically after being experimented on.  When she dies, Will raises her son, a tiny chimp named Caesar.  As he grows up, Caesar’s intelligence rates rise and he begins to question whether to stay with Will and his family, or return to his true home in the wild.  Caesar learns of the terrible treatment of apes and chimps in the city.  This causes him to free all the primates and lead them on a revolution against the humans.

“Rise of the Planet of the Apes” is an action-packed, suspenseful, and often emotional movie.  Personally, I found it a lot better and much more interesting than the original “Planet of the Apes” movie.  The motion-capture CG animation of Caesar and the apes is amazing.  The movie strongly explains that we cannot and must not try to play God’s role in ruling the world, but always let Him be in control of the world, for there is nothing that He cannot do.    

Go “Ape” and head to the theater to see “Rise of the Planet of the Apes”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Captain America: The First Avenger

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Captain America: The First Avenger

Released:   July 2011

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««««1/2     

Movie Summary:

Steve Rogers is a scrawny, but brave man who desperately wants to serve his country (the movie is set in World War II), but the army rejects him.  When an opportunity arises that gives Steve another chance, he enlists in an experimental military program that creates “super soldiers” with the help of a powerful serum.  He becomes a super soldier and joins the U.S. Army.  He sets off on a mission to stop Johann Schmidt, head of weapons research for Hitler, from using a mystical object’s powers to destroy the world. 

“Captain America” is an action-packed and often feel-good movie that teaches the value of courage and fighting for what you believe in.  Everyone can become a hero and make a difference in the world.  This is a true patriotic movie that you won’t want to miss, containing plenty of action, suspense, humor, and thrills to satisfy Marvel fans and movie fans alike!  Also, stay through the credits and get a sneak peek at Marvel Studios’ next superhero film The Avengers, which comes to theaters next summer.                            

                    

Suit up, grab your shield and head to the theater to see this awesome movie!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Released:   July 2011

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: «««««

Movie Summary:

The epic Harry Potter series comes to an end in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2”.  The wizarding world has been taken over by Voldemort and his forces of Death Eaters.  Harry, Ron, and Hermione are still hunting down Horcruxes to destroy so that they can be one step closer to defeating Voldemort.  The trio returns to Hogwarts, seeking one of the last of the Horcruxes, but Voldemort and his followers discover their plot and fight to stop them.  Their attack on Hogwarts results in an intense battle between the forces of good and evil, and Harry fights to defeat Voldemort and fulfill his destiny as the Chosen One of the wizarding world. 

I think “Harry Potter 7 Part 2” is the absolute BEST movie in the entire series!  This movie is a very emotional, action-packed and suspenseful movie that packs all the right punches.  Daniel Radcliffe and the HP cast have done an exceptional job in portraying the characters of the series, and a job well done for director David Yates, who helped the Harry Potter series come to an amazing and satisfying end.   

Grab your wands and broomsticks and fly to the theater to see “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Cars 2

Connor's Movie Review  

Movie Title:    Cars 2

Released:   June 2011

Movie Rating:  G

Star Rating: ««« «

Movie Summary:

Famous race car Lightning McQueen, his crazy and clumsy tow truck friend Mater, and the gang from Radiator Springs, return in “Cars 2”.  This time around, Lightning enters a worldwide grand prix race and invites Mater and friends to come along.  While Lightning is busy in the race, Mater gets unexpectedly caught up in international intelligence when he is “accidentally” mistaken for an American spy.  Villainous Professor Zundapp and his agent minions pursue him and attempt to capture him.  Mater is aided by British agent Finn McMissile and rookie spy Holley Shiftwell.  Together they uncover and attempt to stop Zundapp’s plot to destroy the Grand Prix racers and rule the world. 

“Cars 2” wasn’t the best sequel ever, but is a very good animated film, with some cool action sequences and hilarious comedy.   This movie is a little violent for a Pixar movie, but “Cars 2” is still very much worth the ride.    

                    

Race to the theater to see “Cars 2”!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Super 8

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Super 8

Released:   June 2011

Movie Rating:  PG-13

Star Rating: ««1/2   

Movie Summary:

“Super 8” takes place in Lillian, Ohio, 1979, where a group of kids film a movie, but while doing so, they witness a deadly train crash.  They soon discover the train was carrying an alien creature from Area 51.  When the town’s citizens and their belongings mysteriously disappear, the kids, as well as the persistent city deputy and the military, try to solve the mystery and discover the secrets of the creature before the town is destroyed. 

“Super 8” is an action-packed movie, with some highly intense moments and many thrills and chills, but I thought this movie had a little too much violence and language.     

                                             

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The Movie Critic, Connor

Kung Fu Panda 2

Connor's Movie Review

Movie Title:    Kung Fu Panda 2

Released:   May 2011

Movie Rating:  PG

Star Rating: «««««     

Movie Summary:

“Kung Fu Panda 2” continues the story of Po, the Dragon Warrior, who now is living in the Valley of Peace along with the Furious Five and Master Shifu, defending China from the forces of evil.  When evil peacock Lord Shen threatens the Valley with his new weapons of destruction, and plots to take over China, Po and the Furious Five embark on an epic adventure of mass awesomeness to take down Lord Shen and his cohorts.  They must stop them from destroying China and ending Kung Fu forever. 

“Kung Fu Panda 2” is an action-packed, often emotional, and hilarious movie that’s jam-packed with SUPREME AWESOMENESS!!         

                 

Head to the Movie Theater to see this awesome movie—Chop, Chop!

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The Movie Critic, Connor

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. 

Enjoy the Movie!  Save Some Popcorn For Me!

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