Tuesday, February 7, 2006

Underworld: Evolution

The first question you have to ask is; did you like the first one? If not, why are you reading this review? If you did, you will enjoy the sequel.

All the characters come back (via flashbacks) including those that died in the first movie like Victor and Amelia. Basically the story picks up the day after Victor was killed in the sewer and Seline and Michael are forced to flee. They are hunted by other vampires and a newer, badder head vampire.

The body count increases and new characters appear, further immersing the viewer in the storyline and plot of how vampires and werewolves came into existence in the first place.

The special effects are very good and a combination of CGI and old fashioned make-up/masks, which I found refreshing. Obviously, due to the vampire aspect of the movie, it retains the dark, gothic tone of the first movie. The acting is okay and no one really stands out, but there weren’t tons of cheesy lines like in a Mark Wahlberg movie. It is definitely more adult than the first movie, with an 18A rating because there is nudity (a sex scene) and plenty of violence and gore.

All in all, it is one of the few sequels that is might be better than the original movie.

9 out of 10

Monday, February 6, 2006

Curious George review

I saw the premiere this past weekend and to my amazement, it wasn’t terrible. I was expecting an overly childish animated movie but instead was treated to a good story with really good artwork. It’s not Shrek or Toy Story, but geared to a younger audience.

Curious George is drawn so adorably I don’t think anyone can possibly not love the character. His mentality is that of a young child and he loves peek-a-boo and playing hide and seek. Any parent who watches this will undoubtedly see the resemblance and enjoy the film, which is filled with sadness, humour, and good old fashioned fun.

If you have children, they will enjoy the movie. If you were a fan of the books when you were young, I suspect you will enjoy it too. It is a great way to spend a rainy/snowy afternoon with your loved ones.


8 out of 10