PATHFINDER; the Ghost Warrior Rating $

Okay, so this movie had great trailers, great production quality, and a terrible script. That combined with amatuer directing and cliche images from a thousand other action films leaves you feeling let down. The leading man (Karl Urban-recognizable from Lord of the Rings trilogy) is not charismatic nor compelling, but I can't tell if it's the script, directing, or poor acting. He only speaks like 10 phrases in the whole movie. My favorite part of the movie were the Native Americans and the Vikings. The production quality in their houses, boats, and especially costumes were amazing. Much of this came from the graphic novel, but they're spectacular none the less. I'd hoped this film would be better than it was, but predictably it was shallow and didn't explore the reference material to make you want to watch it. MM$

Citizen Kane . . . not so sure. Rating $$$

Ok, so I finally watched the classic "Citizen Kane" and I'm not sure I totally got it. However, I'm sure at the time it was made it was revolutionary. Problem is, that's not the time we live in and most everything in film has been improved upon over the past 30 years. Not to say I didn't enjoy it, but I think this is part of the reason that classic films don't always translate to younger generations. What was once an unthinkable accomplishment is now accomplished with a digital camera. I totally recognize the achievement that Welles made by doing the picture. Though I think every time it's shown it should be preceded by an explanation of why the film was so revolutionary. No matter what, you should see this film if you're a filmattic like me. Remember, Welles was only 25 years old when he wrote, starred, and directed. MM$

Two Redford Must Sees Ratings $$$$

Okay, so a random place to start the definitive blog of "picture shows". But Redford's charisma in both films is undeniable. So to begin your education on film you must screen "Three Days of the Condor" and "All the President's Men". Compelling political dramas that feature great performances by Redford with excellent cameos by Faye Dunaway and Dustin Hoffman respectively. The sense of survival and inquiry are both qualities that the Million$ values highly. MM$