Beddiewong Reviews

Captivity (2007)

Not very good

[2/10 · 28 January 2009]

Over all this movie, was not very good. I understand what it takes to make a movie and many people worked hard. But I must fault those at the top for bringing together a lackluster story. The movie is more like a voyeuer cam in the mind of a sadistic killer with quick flashes of a childhood gone bad. It didn't spend enough time unveiling the brother's lives and how they came to be.

The truth is stranger than fiction and certainly have been people like the Dexter brothers. But this movie skips out on the real story and we follow a flustered Jennifer in a maze set in a typical large, creepy home with a multi-level torture basement.

I didn't enjoy this movie. I wasn't so much creeped out as I was annoyed. I don't understand why she slept with this guy. How that could have made things better. I know the point of the Brothers was to set this up for this purpose. But the movie was just poorly executed.

Knocked Up (2007)

Decent but female characters fall short...

[6/10 · 20 May 2008]

After watching Superbad, I watched this movie expecting something totally different. I ended up enjoying it. I can agree with other posts, Ben's supporting cast members were lacking throughout the movie. The really didn't offer much outside of their views on abortion. I would have liked to see Ben's friends offer more than just crude-predictable "jackass" worthy humor even if they were potheads. (Some of our greatest musicians have been potheads. Their work still counts!!)

I didn't really care for the women in this movie though. They were very annoying and bratty at best. I am a woman and ended up sympathizing with Debbie's husband. She was like an adult toddler in their terrible twos! I get the humor behind men surrendering to women in relationships. But I wish we could get past this and show more depth to relationships--even in comedies. Nothing puts brakes on comedy faster than a whiny woman going off on her mate over something stupid and justifying the tantrum being she's female. UGH! (Remember, Meet the Parents and the cat? Oh come on!). Or the way Heigl's character treats Ben in the doctor's office. Granted his response is no better. And flares up again at Debbie later---in a way that's disrespectful towards women. I understand the need to poke fun at this but this is just cheap, lazy humor. The women in the movie always want their cake and ice cream at their mate's expense. They can be bratty but they should rely on the excuse, it's because we are women and men just don't understand, etc.

The one element I loved about this movie was Harold Ramis' speech on babies. I felt this was tastefully done and expressed what the movie was trying to convey. My abortion views aside, it was heartwarming to hear a man express his joyous views on fatherhood. He looked at his son with optimism and gave him courage and support. To me, even though Ben's life was not going according to plan and most of society would deem him a loser, his father still had a great deal of faith in him. Ben downplays it, his father's words stick with him later in the movie.

People will always have sex. But I like where this movie goes with its message. Yes, on the surface, people can focus in on Ben's appearance and say this is boring. But underneath, the "crowning" scene, the F words, and drugged, porn-obsessed junkies, there is a subtle message that anyone can take responsibility and we shouldn't write off anyone based on what we see but look at their actions. Yes, this message is not original and it's overdone but it's not nearly as irritating as the women in this movie!

The Man (2005)

Missed the mark

[2/10 · 30 September 2006]

The Man misses the mark...

At the very least, it had some funny segments. I love Samuel L. Jackson. This movie is proof, I will watch almost anything he stars in.

But this movie had me worried in some spots. I didn't like the line he says in one part of the film, "I'll beat you like a runaway slave." There was something particularly ill about this comment. It wasn't necessary.

The film's tone is off. The movie relies on the tension between Vann and Andy. This sort of racial, cultural, city vs. rural tension. It's tricky because these types of comedies usually are not funny and can cross the lines in terms of stereotypes and inappropriate jokes.

The ending of the movie is problematic too. Your final thought of Agent Vann rests with his last encounter with Andy. I thought it was senseless and devalued the relationship between Vann and Andy. It was a joke to the viewer, who thought the character transforms.

No, I would not recommend this movie. If you are dying to see it, I would suggest you catch it as it airs on television. Since, there are many instances of foul language, you would be better off watching it when or if it is able to appear on network television.

As always, see it for yourself but consider yourself warned! Enjoy.

Reversal of Fortune (2005 TV Movie)

Interesting movie

[7/10 · 8 September 2006]

This documentary posed a lot of questions about the situation of the homeless. This might sound strange but the documentary showed how the money didn't matter. The 100,000 did not help this man. He had addiction problems with alcohol and cigarettes. And major problems with authority or any type of organization. He changed when he finally realized he had $100,000. But it was not a change for the better. The problems he carried only became greater than ever with the money.

I thought it was helpful the man was given the opportunity to meet with professionals in regards to his money. They gave him great advice but he did not want it. He felt like everyone was telling him what to do. Pushing more experts at him would not have helped. If he didn't want to listen, he wasn't going to. He would not even listen to his own family! This isn't a bad documentary. He comes across the money like a chance encounter. This isn't too far from experiencing good luck. However, it is staged. That's where ethics come into play.

As far as ethics, I am on the fence. It was a riveting documentary, an experiment, and train wreck in progress. It appealed to our curiosity. On the other hand, the filmmakers were sneaky with their approach. You can see how he thinks its just a documentary on his life, then everything changes when he receives the money, and from there--its all downhill. I don't know if its ethical because reality TV does the same thing. We watch shows that exploit peoples' abilities (American Idol), lifestyles (The Real World), and emotions (Survivor). They exploit people, it's cheaper than paying writers and building set, and we depend on contestants to fill in story lines. We watch people sign up to put themselves out there for all to see. They may sign bad contracts, get their 15 minutes of stardom, and when its over, we move on to the next season. Only if they are lucky and smart, do they survive and land roles on other shows---none of which are bigger than the show they went on first.

Overall, I find this documentary interesting. I think you can get a lot out of it. I would like to know if the man returned to his old lifestyle. I think it was a gutsy film and I liked it.

When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts (2006–2007)

Disturbing and greatly needed

[10/10 · 4 September 2006]

When you watch this film, you are engulfed by the tragic stories and circumstances of our fellow Americans. I consider this to be the greatest tragedy our nation has known.

To lose so many Americans and actually see the water logged remains of our citizens is eerie, depressing, and horrible. I can't imagine experiencing such a sight.

I wanted to know more stories and to see more. But I felt Spike delivered a clear message--this disaster was a wake up call for Americans--we really need to become more knowledgeable about government, policies, laws, and have mandatory state regulated disaster planning. It showed us how much we depend on our government when we are in danger. And why it's important to vote and elect qualified persons to our government.

This tragedy is far from over for the survivors. They still need help and support. I can't imagine how much healing had to be put on hold in order to survive through consistent aggravation from the insurance companies, new bills and polices, FEMA mishaps, and our government's response to this crisis.

Very moving, powerful, and compassionate documentary.

Hoot (2006)

Owls left in the cold

[2/10 · 29 August 2006]

I rented this movie for my 7 year old nephew. I didn't care for it. One element that really bothered me were the use of guerilla tactics used in the movie and how no child suffered any consequences for such extreme measures.

I expected something fun yet educational regarding Owl Preservation. Instead, this movie is full of bad acting and awkward moments between cast members. The most important actors of the film are left for the ending rather than being the focus of the entire movie. I didn't want to know so much about the relationship between Roy and Mullet Fingers as I wanted to know about the Owls and their importance.

The kids cause a lot of trouble and often break the law. They are not punished for any of the major crimes--especially Criminal Mastermind Mullet Fingers. It might be a kids movie but even a kids movie should take responsibility not to advocate crime as a means of communication. No where in the movie did anyone come up with a way outside of vandalism, theft, or kidnapping to contact groups or organizations to help their problem. (I realize there would have been no "Hoot" if they did this!) Yes, you can incorporate adventure in a kids story but it's no laughing matter to tie anyone up in their underwear or hold someone hostage in order to get your point across. People like that grow up to be bank robbers. It's the same principle, "I had to do it for the Owls" quickly becomes "I needed the money".

Parents should be cautious of this movie. It's not as innocent as it appears. It was not the fun family movie I expected by any means. It's not okay for kids to break the law, even for a movie about Owls. Especially, when in the end, the kids achieve their goal without any repercussions for their actions. Hard to believe! The character Mullet Fingers is a criminal. He is a runaway, lives in a boat yard alone, and does not go to school. Yet, his character is used to defend the Owls and showcase Florida's natural beauty as if his life is dedicated to nature. He is very cautious about the environment and strongly opposes the growing tourism industry. However, Mullet does not grow and develop in this story. At the end, he returns to his boatyard living as a runway-on-the-run except now he has a male friend. I didn't buy the kid's acting or the character's passion. Mullet does not evolve from his situation nor does he get the necessary help he needs. I believe this sends the wrong message to kids. You can have passion for the environment but you do need an education, you need a home, and the know how to legally organize community support for a good cause.

Overall, I would not recommend this movie. It's all around bad. Even Jimmy Buffet couldn't rescue it. A lot of people worked hard on the movie but it just didn't hit the mark. It was a sad day for the Owls when this opened.

Little Man (2005)

Very touching documentary

[10/10 · 21 May 2006]

I thought it was brave of Nicole to shoot this film. She showed all the sides of her journey with Nicolas. I came across this film looking for something to watch. I didn't know what a micro-preemie was. After viewing the documentary, I felt like I had experienced this too. It was powerful and showed the love of two moms. I liked the fact that we explored the strange Nicu ward but also we were able to put ourselves in the mothers' shoes. Seeing and living both sides of this delicate issue.

I was happy, I was sad, but most of all I was so proud of the moms. The love coming through for the little baby went a long way. It was a humbling experience. But I am proud of these two remarkable women.

Madea's Family Reunion (2006)

Passionate and Funny

[10/10 · 5 March 2006]

I would give this movie a 10 because it's enjoyable. Perry weaves the three stories together with his own chance to interject his beliefs and perspectives.

I realize he uses a lot of religion in his plays and films. However, this is his chosen style and he uses it well. I also would like to point out Madea, she is not religious, but respectful remains a source of inspiration and wisdom for the characters.

The film is slammed for using stereotypes. But I can't see how this film uses more stereotypes than other motion pictures. I can't tell you how many films and movies I have seen that always show African Americans struggling or a part of the set background (just something needed to show "diversity"). How does that feel to be as important as a lamp or the umbrella holder on set? Or as you will find in "classic" American films, you are absent from society.

This film has it's exploitative moments, however, there is satire behind them. This film is blended well with its own moments. Perry seizing the opportunity to "speak" to the lost generation, which cannot hear above the sultry, booming tunes of nothingness, shaking, popping, fighting, and not listening. It is preachy and leans on religion, but it is Perry's vision, his answer, and his perspective he shares with the audience. I respect his choices and his message.

This film is comprised of many human moments. These are not moment that only African Americans can understand. I could laugh, feel joy, and cry my eyes out. Some scenes are so subtle and innocent but they make you feel what's going on in the story. Each actor puts a lot of heart into their performances.

Overall, I would highly recommend this film. A funny, light comedy with a great deal of sense and snapshot of what's wrong with youth today. Please support this film and congratulate Perry on production of the final seven Madea plays. I can't wait to see what his produces next.

The River King (2005)

Boring from beginning to end

[3/10 · 4 February 2006]

This story is not very interesting. It has a few moments of splendor but has more dry, awkward moments than anything else. The young lady's character is rather irritating as are most of the other characters. I am not sure if it's because I was tired, but this film was truly boring and very, very slow. Movies can be slow but they shouldn't want to induce a cinema coma on the audience.

Most of the story parallels between whats going on between two couples. But the movie's twist is rather dry and unsatisfying. No real sympathy is built for our dead character. Even Burns' character is simply boring. The entire movie painstakingly takes its time coming to a flat conclusion. I felt no sympathy, connection, or enjoyment out of any of the characters.

It is really one you don't want to see without lots of caffeine and some smelling salts. Watch it at your own risk but don't expect a very compelling story as mentioned before. I would say this is a below average movie.

Roll Bounce (2005)

Worth seeing!

[10/10 · 8 January 2006]

This film was like a trip back in time. The roller skating, moves, and clothes all supply a trip down memory lane. The character Sweetness was bad (meant in a good way)! Bow Wow's performance blended well with the other characters. It was also great to see Jurnee Smollet and Meagan Good again!! (They were sisters in Kasi Lemmon's Eve's Bayou--exceptional film!) This movie is cute, fun, and great to watch. I would recommend it.

I had no upsets with the filming. The language can be a little spicy for little ones. But overall, the story is kept at the roller rink. The Southside Boys are a wacky group. They love to crack on each other. Overall, I thought the movie was great. Lots of comedy, family drama, and roller skating action.

The Cave (2005)

I agree!

[3/10 · 8 January 2006]

I rented this film from Blockbust because of the Cover and Title! Sounded intriguing!! This movie suffered because of the writing, it needed more suspense. The "monsters" needed more face time. We needed them to have some sort of special power and definitely more "Oh Sh--" moments. The photography didn't bother me except for the scene where a re-breather blows up. There were too many close ups. But other than that the movie seemed to drag and the heroes didn't really work for their freedom. Overall, I would say everyone put in a lot of time even the writers. But this movie is definitely a below average rent.

There are definitely better picks. I would recommend Anacondas 1 or 2 over this pick.

I Spit on Your Grave (1978)

Film deserves more credit...

[8/10 · 14 July 2005]

I watched this film twice. First, I watched the movie. Second, I watched it while listening to the director's commentary. Meir Zarchi explained where the story originated from. In real life, he encountered a ghost-like rape victim, who was brutally gang-raped by two men in a park near his home. He and a friend sought help from the police for the woman but he was dissatisfied by the cops' condescending attitude towards the woman. He tells her story in graphic detail and the results closely resemble what happens in the film.

I believe Zarchi was making more a of a fantasy with this film. Yes, in real life, terrible rapes occur on both women and men. Usually, survivors will fight their rapists in courts.This movie takes a vigilant turn. The survivor gets revenge by acting out exactly what she would like to see happen to these monsters.

Maybe that was uncomfortable for some to see. But I don't see the killings as more harmful than our "classic" Freddy and Jason movies. Those films were far more damaging than this film.

Perphaps if the cover of the film were cosmetically different, there was a soundtrack, better audio, a bit more script, ONE short, visually obstructed rape scene and "softer" killing sequences after a not-guilty trial verdict, more people would adore this film. It's not pretty and the revenge murders are not as plausible as they should be. But it's a movie, let's not forget that. Zarchi takes the horror of rape and matches against the slasher quality of the 70-80s horror films.

This was a very real depiction of how rapists injure their victims during their attacks. Zarchi captures the body movements, disregard for the victim's body, anger, and disgust of a rapist. Jennifer's second sequence against the rock said more than any script could. This point transitions Jennifer into an emotional zombie. This scene to me, captured all the pain and internal shredding that occurs in rape. The violent finale, where the last rapist rams a bottle into her vagina shows the competitive, sadistic nature of a gang rape. I believe this is why the revenge killings did not bother me later in the film.

Overall, the movie is pretty good. In my opinion, Zarchi could have done better. But he admits during the filming he was inexperienced. I am not so cruel here. I do appreciate Zarchi's work. He does not glorify rape by any means. If the film bothers you, ask yourself if this rape could really happen to someone? Then ask, if the revenge killings could happen. You can separate the reality from fantasy. See "Soul Plane" for the worst movie ever.

Soul Plane (2004)

Not funny, not humane

[1/10 · 12 July 2005]

This picture was like a walk in closet of caricature, Amos n Andy "humor", stereotypes, and degradation. Can't believe this was made. Heather "Hunkie"? What is this? It was not a funny movie for anyone. John Witherspoon's sexual performance with a baked potato was enough to burn this copy on the spot. I didn't enjoy any of the scenes in this movie from beginning to end.

Not very much actually shocks me but this movie left my jaw on the floor. I wondered what type of mental state one could be in to write and pitch this idea. Then I thought about the studio that backed it. The lighting crew who lit a "potato" vagina for Witherspoon to play with. UGhhhhh. I knew this movie was trash before renting it. But I wanted to see just how bad it could be. This movie slaughters the very essence of comedy, satire, and cinema. But as Witherspoon stated on the behind-the-scenes look, he will not turn down anything. He should rethink this. Everyone should have abandoned this project.

Not funny and a waste of time. If you see this film, no matter who you are, it will be worth a trip to the garbage can after viewing. This is the kind of movie that makes you want your money and time back w/ option to forget!

Hotel Rwanda (2004)

Heartless

[10/10 · 12 July 2005]

This is probably one of the best films I have ever seen. It was hard to watch because grown men were killing children. This amount of history, courage, suffering, and triumph is incredible. Hotel Rwanda was a very important film and it will stay with me.

I am shocked and angry there was no coverage of this atrocity. I can't believe someone could make a decision to not call this "genocide" and not attach "newsworthy" to this event. The writing was excellent but the acting was unsurpassed. Sophie and Don really captured the realism and fear from this terrible massacre. I saw Ray and Foxx was great. But my vote would certainly go to Don Cheadle!! This movie is worth watching. It's very disturbing. But you can learn a lot from the DVD behind the scenes look with the real Paul. He goes back to Rwanda and actually sees the lime-coated real human remains of the children and adults killed in 94'. This heroic tale should have received much more recognition for every aspect of production. This movie has a great pace, acting, writing, art-direction, and cinematography. You will enjoy the shocking, twisted journey but you will never forget what you see in this film.