Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009
Recliner Reviews for February 26, 2009
Sometimes it’s a dilemma: what DVD should you rent? Do you want a date flick, an action caper, or a goofy comedy? Weekly Surge is here to help with our reviews of recently released DVDs, which we’ve watched from the comfort of that favorite recliner.
"EXTREME MOVIE"
The title is only partially accurate. Extreme, yes, warranted for scenes involving rubber vaginas, flatulent girlfriends and a homoerotic fellatio “Punk’d”-style sequence. Movie? Hmm, that is certainly debatable if your definition means that a movie must have a discernable plot. This direct-to-DVD dud, written in part by “Saturday Night Live’’ cast members Andy Sandberg and Will Forte, is more akin to late-night comedy sketches rather than a cohesive film. It’s basically a series of vignettes strung together with intermittent in-the-studio segments from Matthew Lillard, who gives outstanding advice such as telling guys not to worry about using condoms. Yes, this is supposed to be comedy, but that simply is not funny. And don’t be deceived by the cover’s lineup of some big names, such as Frankie Muniz and Michael Cera – their appearances are cameos at best. It’s supposed to be about the foibles of teen sex, but, in fact, because some of these actors seem so young, this flick is downright creepy. Here’s an extreme warning: In no way should you waste your time or money on this DVD.
– Kent Kimes, Editor
"ROCKNROLLA"
Ok, it is official; Guy Ritchie only makes good movies when Madonna is not in the picture. Granted, this movie was made while Guy and Madonna were still technically together, it is obvious that he spent less time catering to the Queen of Pop and more time doing what he does best, telling the stories of the underbelly of London. He has returned with a whole new set of awesomely named shady characters. Returning to his roots like “Snatch” and “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels,” “RocknRolla” is filled with British slang, intricate plot and sub-plots and catchy one-liners. This is Guy Ritchie all grown up. The plots have matured from larceny to real estate scams. The characters have managed to keep their coolness while aging to the point of being experienced. Ritchie has maintained his edge while not rehashing his past glories, which would have been the easiest thing to do after eight years in moviemaking purgatory. Good for Ritchie, for finding his stride again and good for Ritchie fans because this is the start of his “RocknRolla Trilogy.” Rent it this weekend.
– Derrick Bracey, for Weekly Surge
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