Movie Review (Theatrical): Past vs. Future (or Primates vs. Robots)

Year One
Synopsis: two primates on a funny adventure through biblical times
Grade: D+


I'm actually being kind with my grade. It only "passes" because there were a few laugh-out-loud moments but, to be honest, I was tempted to walk out of this one. It pains me to say that because I normally enjoy watching both Jack Black and Michael Cera but together they just couldn't pull off this film and I can tell you why: this movie relied heavily on these two improvising their scenes and they didn't have the chemistry. Not to mention, I don't believe Michael Cera is experienced enough to carry a film solely on improv. He's very charming and funny in Arrested Development, Superbad, and Juno but his dry sense of humor is best delivered when scripted. He seemed lost when trying to respond to Jack Black's outrageousness. So, sorry guys, this one will be best viewed on cable when there's nothing else to watch.

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Synopsis: Autobots and Decepticons fight. . .again. . .over Shia LeBeouf.
Grade: C+


Um. . .hmmmmm. . .mixed feelings on this film and I probably didn't give myself enough time to let this one sink in. I will definitely give Michael Bay credit for his eye for action. He pretty much brings an art to explosions but we definitely don't share the same sense of humor. I, myself, do have a very immature sense of humor and laugh at guys getting kicked in the nuts and words like "poop" but I feel like Michael Bay took even that kind of humor down a notch (I didn't need to see that much "humping" from dogs and robots.) There were other severely immature moments but I'll let you guys see and judge for yourselves. And, yeah, I definitely get the impression that Michael Bay and the writers of this film were either rushed too hard to get this film out or they just didn't care. Lots of plots holes. Lots. Now, I'm a person who can sit back and enjoy a "popcorn film" and not worry about these things. For the most part I did (which is why it got a decent grade from me - great action and cool robots) but I did laugh when reading about other impressions of the plot holes online and from my movie viewing partner-in-crime. In fact, here's a good article for those who are curious or have seen the movie and want to know (my favorite plot hole: why does a robot need glasses? LOL!!):

http://movies.yahoo.com/feature/smg-transformers-10-questions.html