scoobydoo2000ms Reviews

Restraining Order (1999)

well done

[26 July 2000]

Eric Roberts has fast become one of my favorite actors. Not only is he talented but he is versatile. I recently saw him in "Race Against Time" in which he played somewhat of a dramatic role.

Ever since I saw Roberts name attached to "Restraining Order" I wanted to see this movie because I heard of his reputation of being the best action star and I knew I was in for a real treat. What I got out of it by the end was a lot more than I was hoping for from him. He proved he has what it takes to become better than best. In "Restraining Order" he portrays a lawyer who witnesses a murder of a close friend and sees the killer. However, there is nothing he can do. He soon learns that evidence indicates that his wife may be involved. What follows is an awesome movie that combines action with drama.

Dean Stockwell is up to usual tricks as he lends his support to Roberts... or does he? Anyway you cut it the whole cast works really with one another to put together a movie that is very very good.

With each scene that came and went, I got more and more interested in how Roberts was going to take down the crooks. "Restraining Order" was a movie that got me involved and I'm glad it did because it lived up to my expectations.

The Bone Collector (1999)

smart, very smart

[26 July 2000]

The only way to describe "The Bone Collector" is that it has smart dialogue, talented actors and an excellent script with puzzles and clues that will keep the viewers guessing until the very end.

With a talented cast that includes Denzel Washington, Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah, Ed O'Neill and rising star Mike McGlone, "The Bone Collector is sure to please viewers as it did me. Washington always seems to select the perfect roles as he seems to fit right in and perform so well. What makes the role of Lincoln Rhyme so good is Washington has to act without the use of his arms and legs. He makes it look so simple and yet pulling a performance off that believable is hard. Jolie and O'Neill serve as perfect support for Washington.

It seemed that each scene was pulled off with a very low amount of takes since all the actors seemed to know what the others were doing and timed everything just right.

I give a lot of credit to the writers of "The Bone Collector" for putting together a marvelous script that included intricate puzzles and clues that kept me guessing about the identity of killer a secret until the final showdown at the end. Also, it was a work of art how Lincoln Rhyme took out the killer. I don't think anyone could have forecasted how perfect it was.

This is a must see movie for mystery buffs who love to play along as the home detective and find out who did it. THUMBS WAY UP.

Race Against Time (2000 TV Movie)

well done

[24 July 2000]

Eric Roberts is good and Cary Elwes is devilishly better in an awesome movie called "Race Against Time."

This is one of the most brilliant movies I have seen. The performances are awesome and best of all it is suspense filled. In addition to the suspense, "Race Against Time" brings non stop, edge of your seat action and drama to a movie that has a star who acts in nothing but action movies.

I must give praise to the writers and director of "Race Against Time" because they took an awesome script and turned it into a work of art. A man signs his life away to save his son but when he discovers his son is dead, he breaks the agreement and runs for his life. Who wouldn't watch this movie after reading the plot? I know I would watch it.

The cast is phenomenal in "Race Against Time. Eric Roberts seems to get better and better with each role he takes. Roberts expands his acting skills from action to being a dedicated and caring father. It is always good to see that an actor can be versatile. However, the best actor in this whole movie was the evil Cary Elwes. Elwes is the ultimate bad guy and he portrays the villain never well. I wish I never got on the wrong side of Mr. Elwes. Besides Elwes, the climax of this film makes this film so good.

"Race Against Time" is a heart-pumping, heart-warming, suspenseful and edge of your seat thriller that will involve you from start to finish. If you enjoy Eric Roberts you will enjoy "Race Against Time." THUMBS WAY UP.

Bone Daddy (1998)

very interesting

[24 July 2000]

"Bone Daddy" is an interesting movie to say the least. I enjoyed this movie very much because it stars one of my new-found favorite actors in Rutger Hauer. Known for action movies, Hauer is quite different in his portrayal of a former medical examiner on the trail of a serial killer.

This is not your average serial killer movies, which is only one of a number of things that attracted me to this movie. Another thing that attracted me to "Bone Daddy" was the fact that the cast didn't seem to miss a beat in their performances. Everything seemed to roll along smoothly. Finally, the fact that the writers carefully plotted to disguise the identity of killer until the last scene (literally) was a stroke of genius. Though some may think it cliche to do this, I thought it worked.

"Bone Daddy" is a complex, nail biting and suspense filled thriller that combines action with drama. Rutger Hauer is at his best as is Barbara Williams. This deserves a look by everyone who is into mysteries and action. I hope you like it as much as I did.

House on Haunted Hill (1999)

a very good and entertaining film

[23 July 2000]

I was very impressed with "House On Haunted Hill" because it was a scary movie that even got me a few times. Not many horror films recently have been "scary"; however, this is different.

What really sets this apart from any other horror films I've seen recently was the cast because they all seemed to work well together. Geoffrey Rush, Famke Janssen, Chris Kattan,Taye Diggs, Ali Larter, Peter Gallagher and Bridgette Wilson come together to create a sense of believability to the movie that may not be there if other actors took the roles.

This is a brilliant script that called for a lot of good performances from everyone, which was accomplished. Everyone had to depend on one another for survival; however, there were several brilliant twists. The first having two guests in cahoots to gain five million dollars and the other having only two people surviving the night. Both made for an excellent movie.

Though "House on Haunted Hill" was impressive it was not the best horror film I've seen because with the amount of special effects there was, they did not scare me as much as I thought. Still, they were original and believable. All in all I was impressed with this film.

The 4th Floor (1999)

a hesitant thumbs down

[23 July 2000]

I can't say that I liked "The 4th Floor" because it took so long to get to the point. When it finally came to the climax, I just didn't care anymore. The main problem with "The 4th Floor" is that it doesnt offer the viewer anything to keep watching until the end. I wish I saw more action or frights earlier on because it would resolve a lot of problems I had with it.

The only thing that kept me watching were the performances from Juliette Lewis, William Hurt, Shelley Duvall and Austin Pendleton. They took an excellent (yet lacking) script and did the best they could but it failed somewhere along the line. I wish I could recommend this to you but I can't unless you are a die-hard fan of any of these actors.

Trial by Jury (1994)

very slow but well worth the rental fee

[22 July 2000]

"Trial By Jury" is one of the better psychological thrillers I have seen because it sucks the viewer in with each scene. As I began to watch this film I noticed that it had elements of "12 Angry Men" and "The Juror," both of which were great movies, therefore I knew this would be of the same caliber.

The film stars Gabriel Byrne, Armand Assante, Joanne Whalley-Kilmer and William Hurt. They all bring a style to the film that can only be matched by the brilliant ways of making it believable. I found all the actors were playing a different from what they were accustomed to, which was a real treat because if actors play the same thing over and over it gets boring.

This a legal thriller that plays around with the mind and when movies do this you can only hang on for the ride. Kilmer delivers an awesome performance as the terrified juror. It made me sit up and take a look at how talented she is. For example, in the climax of the movie she is at her best, but you will have to see the movie.

Speaking of performances, the one turned in by Gabriel Byrne made me a fan of his work because he showed that he has a passion making movies and making them good. In "Trial By Jury" he never let up in his pursuit of justice.

"Trial By Jury" was a very slow movie but it is well worth the wait. I hope everyone likes it as much as I did.

Titanic (1997)

Pure magic

[20 July 2000]

How does one describe the perfect film? In order to answer this question, one must watch the perfect film. In this case "Titanic" is the perfect film.

It owned all the qualities that make a film #1: action, drama, suspense, romance and action. "Titanic" is the personification of excellence and perfection.

It contained brilliant performances by Kate Winslet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Billy Zane and Kathy Bates. I was truly impressed by the performance of Billy Zane's Cal who was the jealous fiance to Kate Winslet's Rose. The casting director knew what he was doing when he chose Zane because the role was played with such ease.

The set design and costumes that overseen by Director James Cameron was done with careful attention to detail. The accuracy of the set and costumes was superb it was not easy to tell the difference whether or not it was made or real.

I have seen "Titanic" many many times and will continue to see as long as I own the movie because it was that well done. It continues to hold a special place in my heart and will for as long as I live.

This continues to be one of the best films I have seen; everyone should SEE IT again.

Laws of Deception (1997)

enjoyable

[18 July 2000]

This is not the best movie I've seen, yet it isn't the worst. I loved this movie because it is a mystery thriller that will keep you guessing right up to the very end of the movie, literally.

C. Thomas Howell stars as an attorney who gets sidetracked by a beautiful woman, played by Amber Smith who is in for more than love. It also stars Brian Austin Green as his best friend and turns out to have a much more important role later in the movie.

What follows is a thrill ride that will have each viewer's heart pounding and their thirst to know what will happen next. This is a movie that needs development but if you stick with it you will be pleasantly surprised as I was.

Jack Frost (1998)

A family movie that is sure to impress

[9/10 · 18 July 2000]

"Jack Frost" is the type of feel good movie that will take the viewer on a ride for two hours and come back refreshed. Michael Keaton stars as Jack Frost in this awesome movie about getting a second chance at being the world's greatest dad. Kelly Preston, Joseph Cross and Mark Addy co-star.

I first noticed Joseph Cross, Charlie Frost, in the 100th episode of "Touched By An Angel" and since then I knew he was a talented young actor. Cross once again teamed with Keaton in "Desperate Measures" another awesome movie I think was overlooked by the viewing audience.

"Jack Frost" is the kind of movie that has heart-warming moments intertwined with comedy that is witty. Keaton and Cross seem to have a lot of fun making this movie together and it showed in their performances. Scenes like the one that had Jack Frost throwing snowballs at the school bully and his friends as well as the chase that followed made it all worthwhile to see because this is what makes movies so good.

Watching this movie, it reminded me of "Ghost" because of its sweeping and heartwarming storyline.

One of the things I look for in a good movie is chemistry and this movie didn't let me down. While an unusual but a brilliant pairing, Keaton and Preston bring chemistry to "Jack Frost," a movie that seems to be better than others I've seen before.

I think Michael Keaton is one of the best actors I've seen and his performance in "Jack Frost" is one of his best films to date so WATCH it.

Son in Law (1993)

Very funny

[18 July 2000]

"Son In Law" is the best Pauly Shore movie I have seen since "Jury Duty."

"Son In Law" combines comedy from Shore and the rest of the cast to moments that will just say wow I didn't know Pauly Shore could do that: I wish his other movies would have been better.

Carla Gugino is something special to look at because she brings her beauty and electricity to a movie that is not only laugh out loud funny but heart-warming. "Son In Law" will make you laugh, cry and scowl; it is worth watching.

Scary Movie (2000)

more comedy and spoof than story

[9 July 2000]

"Scary Movie" was certainly a funny movie and I was thrilled to see it. This is one of the best spoof films to come to the screen because it pokes fun at all the teen horror films that has been made in recent years.

Having said that, I do see after watching the movie why critics were up in arms over the 'R' rating that it was given. There were a few scenes in the movie that could have been left on the cutting room floor because it had nothing to do with the plot of the movie.

However, the best part of the whole movie was the acting performances of every cast member because they made everything so funny. I really enjoyed how they spoofed the other movies such as the Scream series, I Know..... and The Sixth Sense with so much ease. Keenan Ivory Wayans did a great job directing this movie.

My only criticism of "Scary Movie" is the lackluster storyline throughout it. The story seemed to be one-dimensional with comedy as its only draw. For me, it worked but not to the point of calling it the best of the year because it needs more than just one element. The only question I have left is: Will there be a Scary Movie 2? If there was to be one, I think it would be another tremendous success.

The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle (2000)

A truly hilarious film

[9 July 2000]

Maybe it was the many puns or the hilarious play-ons that I enjoyed about "The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle." After I left the movie theater, I was glad that I saw it because I thought it was the best comedy of the year.

Robert DeNiro leads an all-star cast that includes Rene Russo, Jason Alexander and newcomer Piper Perabo in a comedy that will knock everyone's socks off. I was impressed by everyone in this film especially DeNiro because this is quite a departure from his dramatic and action roles.

Newcomer Piper Perabo looks a lot like Renee Zelwegger and that is what I first noticed about her. I subsequently realized that she was more than just a pretty face, she is a real talent that will go far in Hollywood if she puts forth the effort.

Another aspect of the film I was impressed with were the puns and play-ons the writer came up with. These above anything else made the film that much more enjoyable to watch because it was able to poke fun at others and yet still be funny enough where it didn't become silly.

Few films that are made from television shows are successful. There are those who look for certain things to occur in a movie that they saw as a child on a television show and they base their opinion of the movie based upon that fact alone.

"The Adventures Of Rocky & Bullwinkle" far succeeded my expectations of being one of the best made from a television show. I hope everyone can enjoy this film as much as I did because it is sure to make you laugh throughout the movie. This is a must-see movie for all ages to enjoy.

The Alternate (2000)

very enjoyable

[25 June 2000]

Movie fans don't always have to go to theaters to enjoy a good movie just the video store. An example is "The Alternate." There are many reasons I liked this movie but the biggest is the battle that was waged between good (Eric Roberts) and evil (Bryan Genesse.) Adding to the excitement was Ice-T who for once was on the side of good, although he was not in the movie that long.

I would characterize this film to be among the best of direct to video because it had tension, drama, plot, action and suspense from the opening scene. Roberts and Genesse are both known for their real-life martial arts skills and they certainly utilized them in their duels with one another. It was a pleasure to see these two men hash it out because the fight sequences looked real.

What makes "The Alternate" that much better is the fact that it is directed by Genesse, who is a virtual unknown to the directing scene. He did such a great job in setting up each scene because it was done with care and precision.

It is too bad that these types of movies are not shown on the screens in theaters because they are too good to be seen direct to video. This movie has turned me on to other direct to video movies and I wish others enjoy these as much as I do.

A Twist of Faith (1999)

slow.....but worth the wait if you like good plots

[25 June 2000]

Andrew McCarthy definitely redeems himself as he does his best save this mediocre film. However, it starts off really slow and stays that way for about the first 45 minutes at which point it gets better.

Unlike other movies where elements such as action drama or comedy are there and plot isn't, "A Twist of Faith" is completely different it only has two worth noting, which are plot and mystery. I'm really sorry it lacked the others needed because it would have made for a much better movie.

However good this movie intends to be, it is lacking in areas that would make it worthwhile. If you enjoy good films with good plots then this is the movie for you, otherwise don't bother renting it.

The writer did an excellent job at making everything that was said come together without giving anything away. This plot was unlike one that I have ever seen

Small Time Crooks (2000)

enjoyable

[23 June 2000]

Initially, I did not see this film because it starred or even was directed by Woody Allen. Personally, I hate Woody Allen before and after seeing this film. I went to see "Small Time Crooks" because of the plot. I like a good plot-oriented film. This fit the requirements I was looking for.

Even with the disdain I have for Woody Allen, I remained objective and I'm glad I did. This was not a bad film after all. The plot surrounded a robber and his gang figuring out the best way to earn a cheap buck. After some time, they devise a plan that backfires, which leads into an incredible turn of luck for everyone involved.

I must give credit to the writer's because I thought that the script was a refreshing look at a subject that has become quite cliche over time.

The only criticism I have for "Small Time Crooks" is for Woody Allen. I hope he stops portraying himself as someone who needs to stop in the middle of a line and act as though he doesn't know what the heck is going on. I hope if and when I see his next film, he won't be doing that.

"Small Time Crooks" is a good film and should be seen if fans like a nice easy going comedy.

Molly (1999)

incredibly inspirational

[23 June 2000]

"Molly" is a movie of epic inspiration. I was so amazed by the story it presented to the viewers. It not only has star power of Elisabeth Shue and Aaron Eckhart, but it also had a great supporting cast in Thomas Jane and Jill Hennessey.

One of the best things about "Molly" was the intelligent dialogue between everyone. This is a movie that delivers the message that it doesn't matter who the person is or what is wrong with them, they are still a human being and are deserving of respect and love.

I can relate with the title character and was glad to see that somebody made a film of this nature and succeeded in making the point in which it was trying to send viewers.

I was impressed with this flawless film from start to finish. Not only is "Molly" one of the most moving films I've seen but it will literally bring tears to viewers eyes because it is that special. I highly recommend this film. Viewers will not be disappointed by this film since it is that good.

Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)

Sissy Spacek delivers

[23 June 2000]

Tommy Lee Jones proves once again he is the best at what he does as Sissy Spacek shines in one of new favorite films. Based upon the true story of Loretta Lynn, "Coal Miner's Daughter" profiles one of the greatest country singers of all time.

Movies based on true stories are really hard to make since details must be mostly if not all accurate. "Coal Miner's Daughter" far succeeded this and what resulted was one of the best true stories ever brought to the big screen.

This is a movie that should be treasured and be considered as a classic because this is as close to greatness as you will get. Telling the story of how a coal miner's daughter went from rags to riches with the help of her husband Mooney. There is so much to learn from watching "Coal Miner's Daughter" that goes beyond what is shown on film.

If I take one thing away from this film it would be this: no matter what comes your way, always follow your heart and pursue your dreams because they will always come true.

I was so proud to have seen this film because it was not only one of the best it was also an educational tool that I could implement in my life. I hope that everyone who reads this review will rent this film and get the same out of it as I did.

Light It Up (1999)

brilliantly acted

[18 June 2000]

"Light It Up" is smart, heart pounding and filled with suspense that will keep everyone on the edge of their seat. This is a truly smart thriller drama that takes a look at one of the biggest problems facing America.

Everything about "Light It Up" worked from the performances from relative newcomers such as Usher Raymond and Robert Ri'chard to veterans like Forest Whitaker and Vanessa L. Williams. One thing I must say about the cast of "Light It Up" they took the script and performed with the heart and intent of making this film a success.

The best thing about this movie was not the action but the message that it was trying to send the message that everyone deserves to be treated equally and with the same amount of respect.

Also, the characters were richly developed with honesty and integrity that seems to be missing from films I have been watching recently. I'm glad I got the opportunity to watch "Light It Up" because it taught me not to make judgements based upon first impressions.

Whether you like "Light It Up" or not it will touch you and move you to action. This truly is a movie that has spirit and deserves to be watched.

Cradle Will Rock (1999)

the worst movie I've seen all year

[18 June 2000]

"Cradle Will Rock" is so awful that it doesn't deserve to be reviewed. There is not one thing in this film that I liked. I came away asking myself two questions: 1) What was the point of making this film, 2) Why were so many talented actors such as John Cusack and Susan Sarandon thinking when they signed on to be a part of this film.

Mickey Blue Eyes (1999)

entertaining

[18 June 2000]

"Mickey Blue Eyes" is by no means the best movie I've seen but by the same token it was entertaining enough for me to sit through it and watch it over and over.

James Caan and Hugh Grant are terrific as they come together as a great comedy duo. Similar to "Donnie Brasco", "Mickey Blue Eyes" takes a comedic look at the mob. This is one of the humor filled mob films that I enjoyed watching.

The best part of "Mickey Blue Eyes" was Joe Vittereli who seems to be a friend of mob flicks. Vittereli is one guy I want as a friend.

The plot may have left something to be desired but "Mickey Blue Eyes" is entertainment that will bring laughs to everyone who watches this film. I just wish that everyone has the opportunity to see this film at least one time because it made me laugh.

Blast from the Past (1999)

a definite blast of fresh comedic brilliance

[17 June 2000]

Brendan Fraser and Alicia Silverstone are on screen gems in their aptly named characters Adam and Eve. Everything about "Blast From The Past" was superb from the casting of Christopher Walken, Sissy Spacek and Dave Foley to the outstanding performances by everyone made this film so enjoyable.

I could not find one thing wrong with this film because it was that good. Everything in this film was a breath of fresh air and I'm glad I saw this film. Through this movie, it has given me respect for Walken, who has become one of my favorite actors in Hollywood.

The performances by the cast seemed real and honest and it showed. Also, everyone seemed to enjoy each other's company as well as performing in this movie and it showed; furthermore, it also showed up in the box office and rental receipts as people couldn't get enough of this great comedy.

Blast From The Past is a worthwhile comedy that deserves everyone's attention. Two thumbs WAY up.

Gold Diggers: The Secret of Bear Mountain (1995)

one of the best movies I've seen

[5 June 2000]

This is a movie that should be viewed by everyone because it is a true testament to what friends will do for one another without question.

Anna Chlumsky gives one of her best performances as Jody Salerno and Christina Ricci shines in her role as Beth Easton. Together they are on a mission to capture gold. However, along the way they encounter problems that will test their friendship.

I enjoyed and appreciate how the director took his time to focus the story more on the development of Jody and Beth's friendship instead of just searching for the gold. One of the best examples was when Beth was trapped in the mountain and Jody went for help. It was then I realized that Jody really cared about someone other than herself. Through thick and thin, happy or difficult times they were there for one another, which was the best part. No matter who was in trouble or who was getting pucked on, they stuck together.

I was thrilled to see a movie that is a change of pace from what has come out, which has come out recently. I really hope this movie does the same for each viewer as it did for me. I highly recommend this film because it shows the true meaning of friendship

Big Momma's House (2000)

what a delightful comedy

[4 June 2000]

I have finally seen Martin Lawrence in string of two good movies. He has come back from the disaster "LIFE" to star in this awesome and funny movie called "Big Momma's House."

Everything about this film screams winner because it is definitely original in the way it presents the comedy. Lawrence has surrounded himself with a cast that is just as funny. For example, Paul Giammati is one of the best castiong choices to play Lawrence's partner because he plays well of the comedy Lawrence exudes.

I enjoyed how the plot unfolded from the beginning because it brought unexpected scenes. For example, the scene where he plays basketball dressed as Big Momma and the scene in which Big Momma takes out the self-defense instructor. The character development was incredibly rich because everyone seemed to believe in what they were doing.

"Big Momma's House" was a blast to see because it was suspenseful, the comedy was hilarious and it had a well-written script. This is a movie for everyone to enjoy as well as watch. the best comedy of 2000. I highly recommend this film.

And Justice for All (1979)

Al Pacino works his magic in an above average film

[4 June 2000]

"...And Justice For All" is one of those well-intentioned movies that doesn't achieve the goal it was set out to accomplish. Having said this, the film was a superb example how there are some lawyers truly do care about their clients and not intent on making a lot of money.

I now know why Al Pacino is considered one of the greatest film stars in Hollywood. With roles in "The Godfather," "Scent Of A Woman," "Heat," "Devil's Advocate" and "The Insider," Pacino has proven he is an actor with integrity and presence.

The best thing about "...And Justice For All" was the true and genuine care that Pacino's character had for his clients. It was incredible that lawyer's are human like everyone else.

The only thing I would change about this movie would be to narrow the storylines because it had a few too many to follow. With the number of subplots in this film, it was too difficult to pinpoint the main plot and enjoy the film outright.

Overall, this movie was good and I recommend it.