DJANGO UNCHAINED

Plot:


Dr. King Schultz (Waltz) is a bounty hunter tracking 3 criminals that he does not know how they look so he enlist the aid of a slave named Django (Foxx) who just so happens to know the description of the trio. Upon granting Django his freedom for his aid, Schultz also promises him to help track and retrieve his wife Broomhilda (Washington) who is held captive as a slave by plantation owner Calvin Candie (DiCaprio). Soon the two set out cross country, creating havoc among plantations along the way to Candy Land.


Reel Talk:


Ok right off the rip, I was not that impressed with this movie! We are led to believe that bounty hunter Schultz could not find his prey without the help of Django. We are led to believe that in the short time they are together that Django is turned into a well educated, fast drawing gunslinger just like that. And the repetitive use of the N word becomes quite tiresome about an hour into the film. Let me put it to you like this, if you like senseless blood and gore go see this film, if you like sitting close to 3 hrs hearing the N word constantly then go see this film, if you just need to see an action film then go see this film. But otherwise Django could have stayed chained! Go see it at your own risk!

Starring: Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington, Samuel L. Jackson and Walter Goggins
Directed by: Quentin Taratino
Rated: R

I give it 2 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

JACK REACHER

Plot:


When an ex Army sniper is caught and detained for allegedly fatally shooting six people in an outside pavilion, he request for an ex military police officer named Jack Reacher (Cruise), who can only be found when he wants to be found. Upon seeing the case on TV he comes to the aid of the defending attorney Halen (Pike) to either help find the sniper's innocence or to follow through with a promise he made earlier to the young man. But soon Reacher realizes that nothing is as it appears and he is soon a target for assassination.


Reel Talk:


There is no denying that Tom Cruise is one of the top action actors in the game. Even though he doesn't fit the description of Jack Reacher in the book, he still comes across convincingly on the screen as the no nonsense, straight to kick some bad guy booty military cop Reacher. Although he only has a small part in the movie, Robert Duvall knows how to maximize and capitalize on stealing scenes because he surely makes his presence known. This is a good action, suspense movie with a whodunit and why twist that may leave you hanging a bit, but still an entertaining movie none the least. Yes this one is worth the admission.

Starring: Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins, David Oyelowo and Robert Duvall
Directed by: Christopher McQuarrie
Rated: PG-13

I give it 3 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

THIS IS 40

Plot:


This is 40 is somewhat a follow up film to the 2007 hit movie Knocked Up. Pete (Rudd) and Debbie (Mann) married with two daughters are both on the verge of celebrating their 40th birthdays but are also in the midst of dealing with their own individual crises from business problems, family matters and marital issues. The couple must find a way to work through the things that could very well crumple their marriage and bring about the demise of the family all while planning for their 40th birthday party.


Reel Talk:


Judd Apatow has done it again! He brings us another hilarious movie about the perils of being married with children. Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann will have you laughing as the couple that are struggling to stay in love with each other while dealing with the everyday pressures of life that does not help their situation. Very funny movie that is well worth the ticket of admission. You will not be disappointed with this one.

Starring: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Maude Apatow, Iris Apatow and Jason Segel
Directed by: Judd Apatow
Rated: R

I give it 3 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

THE GUILT TRIP

Plot:


Andrew Brewster (Rogen) is a inventor of an organic cleaning solution that he has to take to the road in order to market and hopefully sale. Along the way he stops to see his mother Joyce (Streisand) who he has purposely avoided because he is often embarrassed by her.In an attempt to get closer he invites her to go on the road trip with him to sales pitch his product. Will it be a good adventure or a catastrophic journey?


Reel Talk:


Although this movie is pretty predictable, it is still an entertaining mother and son relationship movie.The chemistry between Rogen as the easily roused son and Streisand as the constant nagging mother works well just the right amount of humor to sell this movie. It also has it's sentimental moments that shows the important bond of a mother and son. Good movie to catch, just don't have to be the 1st choice.

Starring: Seth Rogen and Barbara Streisand
Directed by: Anne Fletcher
Rated: PG-13

I give it 2 and a half eaten corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

A HAUNTED HOUSE 2013 - MARLON WAYANS INTERVIEW

Cornelius III aka Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler and Big Boi of Outkast at the Core DJ Party at A2.

Actor Marlon Wayans and Cornelius III aka Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler, interview for his new movie A Haunted House due in theaters January 11, 2013.

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN -PART 2

Plot:


This follow up to Breaking Dawn Part 1 starts off with Edward (Pattinson) and Bella (Stewart) freshly married, their new born baby girl Renesmee (Foy) who is growing rapidly and Bella adjusting to her new found powers by way of her transition from human to vampire. Life seems to be perfect for  the couple until they are accused of betrayal by a fellow vampire who has brought the matter to the Volturi led by Aro (Sheen) who now seeks to destroy the Cullen clan because he fears that Edward and Bella's child would threaten their existence causing Dr. Carlise Cullen to enlist the help of rouge vampires to provide a witness of the false allegation or align with them to fight the Volturi if need be.



Reel Talk:


The gangs back again in what is billed as the 4th and final installment of this iconic vampire series. I can honestly say that I have not been all that impressed with anyone in particular until this one. It is the best of the series. Mainly because the characters are a little bit more livelier than the previous ones. Bella who normally walked around clueless and dull actually had some spunk this time and even Edward had more fire in his attitude. This one is also not solely based on the love between the two but rather their love for the family and the will to fight to protect each other. Yes it is more action friendly. Well worth checking out this one to close out the series. But there is still room for maybe another one!

Starring: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Peter Facinelli, Billy Burke, Ashley Green, Michael Sheen, Dakota Fanning and Mackenzie Foy
Directed by: Bill Condon
Rated: PG-13

I give it 4 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler  

FLIGHT

Plot:


Whip Whitaker (Washington) is a heavy drinking, drug inducing flight captain who after a night of partying must pilot a morning flight to Atlanta. While in mid flight the plane begins to experience technical difficulties. Whip a very skilled pilot demonstrates some unique maneuvers in order that he arranges a miraculous crash landing that limited the casualties to 6 out of 102. Even thou he is hailed a hero for saving so many lives he must still go through an investigation to determine whether it was a plane equipment malfunction or bad decision making because of flying intoxicated that caused the crashed that did result in the death of some. With attorney Hugh Lang (Cheadle) fighting to keep him out of jail, Whip still fights to control his drinking and drug addiction which is fueled by his dope dealing buddy Harling Mays (Goodman), that could compromise and impact his entire life.


Reel Talk:


Denzel Washington continues to show why he is still one of the best actors in the game. Flight is an exhilarating movie that will take you through so many stages, from being in awe, to laughter, to being sad and then being happy. Washington is not alone as he has a great supporting cast in Don Cheadle, John Goodman, Kelly Reilly and Bruce Greenwood. Even though most are cameo roles, they stand out with brilliant performances by all. This is definitely one of this years best movies that is well worth the admission. So get there early to grab your treats because from beginning to end you will stay glued to the screened.

Starring: Denzel Washington, Nadine Velazquez, Don Cheadle, John Goodman, Tamara Tunie, Kelly Reilly and Brue Greenwood
Directed by: Robert Zemeckis
Rated: R

I give it 5 corn dogs and a soda on the side.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler                                                                                                                                         

CHASING MAVERICK

Plot:


Even as a young boy Jay Moriarity (Weston) had a fascination with ocean waves, so when he is saved from drowning as a young kid by professional surfer Frosty Hesson (Butler), he later on as a teen becomes a  surfer himself. One day he sneaks and follows his mentor Frosty and learns that Frosty along with 3 of his friends surf these secret monster waves known as mavericks and Jay as a teenager wants his idol to train him so that he can ride the huge, massive and legendary waves. Reluctantly Frosty trains the young and talented Jay, unknowing preparing him for some of the biggest waves to hit the coast that may crush and swallow the teen alive if he makes any mistake.

Reel Talk:


This movie, based on the true surfing adventures of Jay Moriarity was actually a good movie. No I have never and still have no desire to go surfing, but I have mad respect for those that do take part in the highly dangerous sport. Watching them catch a wave and glide through the water with the greatest of ease is truly breath taking. Gerard Butler and Jonny Weston put in good performances as the surfing mentor and understudy Frosty and Jay. Like I mentioned this is a good movie worth catching and you will enjoy the cinematic scenes of the surfing experience.

Starring: Gerard Butler, Jonny Weston, Elisabeth Shue, Abigail Spencer and Leven Rambin
Directed by: Michael Apted and Curtis Hanson
Rated: PG

I give it 3 corn dogs

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

JMJ SPECIAL EDITION HEADPHONES

It's coming up on 10 years that the world has lost one of the most prolific DJ's of our time. On October 30, 2002 Jason William Mizell aka Jam Master Jay was murdered while recording in his studio in Jamaica, Queens. Jam Master Jay who was the 1/3 member and DJ for the legendary hip hop group Run DMC knew how to rock a concert and party with beats that guaranteed to keep you dancing. Well thanks to BiGR Audio (pronounced bigger) an audio headphone company that specializes in marketing their headphones for the Major League Baseball teams and other various legends,  you can continue to jam to his beats as they now have the limited edition Jam Master Jay headphones. These lightweight headphones offer great noise reduction and crystal clear sound quality for your listening pleasure. Once again these are limited edition headphones honoring the legendary DJ for the 10 year anniversary of his death, keeping the legacy of his music alive. Retailed at $149.00 you can order these headphones on line at www.bigraudio.com and if you use this special ordering promo code 'JMJLIVES' you will get them for the discounted price of $99.00. So act now to take advantage of the special discounted price and continue to groove to Jam Master Jammin.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

ALEX CROSS

Plot:


When the most heinous crimes are committed by the most demented criminals, no ordinary detective will do with regards to solving the case and that is why they call upon psycho analyst  specialist Detective Dr. Alex Cross (Perry) along with his team that consist of his childhood friend Detective Tommy Kane (Burns). While following a lead on a recent murder he foils up an assassination attempt by a highly skilled and methodical but sadistic killer named Picasso (Fox) who takes it personally and eventually targets Cross and his team. When tragedy hits home, it becomes a battle of wits between good and evil with Cross willing to do whatever it takes to bring down his twisted minded suspect, even if it means breaking the law himself.


Reel Talk:


Tyler Perry steps waaaaay out of his element of his all hands on approach for his normal films as he acts only in his first action film. That's right he does not direct or produce this film, he solely just focuses on acting, which should have been quite a relief for him. Perry reprising the role of Alex Cross, a role originally played by Morgan Freeman in films Kiss The Girls (1997) and Along Came A Spider (2001), both based on novels written by James Patterson, does a pretty good job. Seeing him whooping some butt on screen is a big switch from the work he normally does. Could he be the next big screen action figure? But I got to admit that there were a few times that I thought pistol packing Madea was gonna pop up...LOL. This is a good solid action movie with a very good supporting cast. I say get out and check this one out, it's worth the admission.

Starring: Tyler Perry, Matthew Fox, Edward Burns, John McGinley, Carmen Ejogo, Rachel Nichols, Giancarlo Esposito, Jean Reno and Cicely Tyson
Directed by: Rob Cohen
Rated: PG-13

I give it 4 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

The Reel Hustler at the EB Cosmetics National Launch Party ft Lonette Mckee

WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!

It was the winter of 2006 when a couple of young men (Jay Anthony White and Darren Brown)  stopped by my store because they wanted me to screen a movie that they were about to release. As we packed into my small office so that we could screen their movie Project 313 (they didn't trust me enough to leave it with me...lol), I could not help but notice despite the limited budget the team had for this movie, they had huge potential in the story telling and visual creativity areas. A few weeks after the screening I stopped by Jay's family owned record store to conduct a one on one interview with him that was set up by their marketing manager David Mims to talk about the movie Project 313 and his future goals, and I must say he was very adamant about his dream of pursuing a career in film making. It was about a year or so that Jay took off to Hollywood to see if he could make things happen. After several years and many disappointments, Jay was still relentless to make it as a film maker. Although he could have quit at any time he stuck with it and now this young man will have a movie that he wrote "PAWN" to be showcased as a world premier among several other movies at the 2012 American Film Market & Conferences in Santa Monica this October 31st to November 7th. and scheduled for national theater releases the beginning of 2013. And now that he has been bitten by the Hollywood bug, he has several more big projects in the works, so please be on the look out for this young man who refused to give up on his dream and is now living it to the fullest. Come the first of the year be sure to go see PAWN and show support for this aspiring young film maker. Congratulations Jay Anthony White!

HERE COMES THE BOOM

Plot:


Scott Voss (James) is a passionate but reckless biology teacher with a tardiness problem who is always trying to win a date with his beautiful colleague Bella (Hayek). When his buddy and fellow co-worker Marty Streb (Winkler) who teaches music is about to become unemployed because the schools lack of funds, Scott, who use to wrestle back in his school days, comes up with the idea of becoming a MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter to raise the money to save Marty's job. He enlist the help of Niko (Rutten), an immigrant trying to gain US citizenship who's also a retired MMA fighter. Not knowing just what he was stepping into, Scott realizes that he is not only just in a fight to save Marty's job but also for his life.


Reel Talk:


James who you can certainly see that he physically conditioned himself for this film, brings some comedic boom to this action/comedy. He does not slack off with his hilarious brand of humor along with the additional help from co-stars Winkler, Hayek, Rutten and Gary Valentine. But besides the comedy the MMA fight scenes are pretty good. What MMA fight movie would be complete without adding commentator Joe Rogan who plays himself in this film. If you are in need of a good laugh see this movie, if you're in need of some action see this movie. You won't miss on either level.

Starring: Kevin James, Salma Hayek, Henry Winkler, Greg Germann, Bas Rutten, Gary Valentine and Joe Rogan
Directed by: Frank Coraci
Rated: PG

I give it 3 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

SEVEN PSYCHOPATHS

Plot:


Colin Farrell plays Marty, an alcoholic Irish screenwriter who is experiencing writer's block while trying to write his movie about seven psychopaths. This will soon all change as he becomes entangled with his buddy Billy (Rockwell) and Hans (Walken) who are dog nappers who just so happen to dog nap the dog of ruthless gangster Charlie (Harrelson) who will kill anyone that has any connection to stealing his dog. The violence and mayhem that Marty experiences and the various blood drenched stories that he is told by various people soon gives him the material needed for his movie if only he gets to live to film it.


Reel Talk:


OK...right off the rip, this is one weird movie. It has a good all star cast but no real plot to it. It's like an all out meaningless movie that over glorifies violence. It kinda reminded me of Woody Harrelson's 1994 ultra violent movie "Natural Born Killers"(ironic that Harrelson is in this one). With so many people walking around with demented minds I don't think that this film should contribute to giving people more ways to be twisted. It may have even been acceptable if the story made sense but there is no justification that way either. Not even the comedic overtone can mask the stupidity of this crap. This is just a plain pointless, extra violent film. I am the eighth psychopath for sitting thru and watching this movie....LOL. This is definitely one that you can wait to catch on cable.

Starring: Colin Farrell, Sam Rockwell, Abbie Cornish, Christopher Walken and Woody Harrelson
Directed by: Martin McDonagh
Rated: R

I give it 1 corn dog.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

ARGO

Plot:


During the 80's, the United states held and refuse to release a former Iranian leader causing a revolt in Iran in which the people storm a compound taking the US citizens that worked there as hostages. But realizing that 6 unidentified Americans managed to escape 5taking refuge within the home of the Canadian Ambassador (Garber), they do whatever to race to identify them so that they can capture and put them to death as an example for the United States to witness. Knowing time is of the essence, the CIA allows their hostage specialist Tony Mendez (Affleck) to go to Iran posing as a filmmaker scouting to shoot a film there and using the 6 fugitives as his Canadian film crew in order that he can get them out.


Reel Talk:

Base on the real occurrences that took place in the 80's, this movie packs intensity. It is not an action film with a lot a car chases or fight scenes but rather a drama film depicting what took place in the life of 6 people's will to survive and one man's determination to save their lives to the point of risking his. Although you pretty much know the outcome, you are still not prepared for the intense moments that leads to the climatic ending. Excellent directing job by Affleck and Alan Arkin pretty much makes the movie with his scene stealing performances. Awesome movie worth checking out and you may want to stay for the credit and review some of the remarkable still pictures from the actual events of that era.

Starring: Ben Affleck, Bryan Crankston, Alan Arkin, John Goodman and Victor Garber
Directed by: Ben Affleck
Rated: R

I give it 5 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

LOOPER

Plot:


In the near future time travel is prohibited except for criminals that are sent back in time to be executed by assassins that are led by Abe (Daniels), a gangster from the future. A young drug addicted Joe (Gordon-Levitt) is one of Abe's top killers, one who always gets his target until he is assigned to terminate himself from the future portrayed by Bruce Willis who has an agenda of his own and that was to go back and time and murder some people that have affected the outcome of things in his future. But since the younger Joe missed his mark, he has a wave of Abe's assassins out to eliminate both him and his older self.


Reel Talk:


Bruce Willis is back in semi-action form in this ultra violent action thriller along with Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Die hard action junkies will enjoy this movie even thou the story is sorta all over the place. You will really have to stay in tune with the movie to actually know whats going on. But despite the scattered story the action is definitely on point and the violence is very graphic. Bruce Willis and action fans won't be disappointed with this movie.

Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis, Emily Blunt, Paul Dano, Noah Segan, Jeff Daniels and Pierce Gagnon
Directed by: Rian Johnson
Rated: R

I give it 3 and a half eaten corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

WON'T BACK DOWN

Plot:



Jamie Fitzpatrick (Gyllenhaal), tired and frustrated with the school that her daughter (who suffers from a learning disability) attends because most the teachers there are unwilling to commit to teaching and unable to get her in a better school, she sets out with the help of one of the few teachers, Nona Alberts (Davis), who still likes to teach and wants a better education for her learning disabled son as well. The two finds a loop hole in the system that allows parents and willing teachers to take over a school so that they can control how to educate the students that attend. But this is not an easy mission as the failing Pittsburgh school program led by the union will set up all types of road blocks possible to deter the women from succeeding.


Reel Talk:



This is a very inspirational movie regarding how to help improve the school system, but it was also a little boring. It really doesn't pick up any type of steam about a little bit past the half the movie. It doesn't help that Gyllenhaal and Davis both very good actresses, lack any real intensity for their characters. They were portrayed as scared, uncertain women instead of strong women who should lead a rally. I actually like the characters of Holly hunter, Rosie Perez and Marianne Jean-Baptiste because of the strength that they eluded on the screen. I'm a strong advocate for education so on that note alone I will recommend this movie but don't go in with high expectations.

Starring: Maggie Gyllenhaal,  Viola Davis, Oscar Isaac, Holly Hunter, Rosie Perez, Emily Alyn Lind and Marianne Jean-Baptiste
Directed by: Daniel Barnz
Rated: PG

I give it 3 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

TROUBLE WITH THE CURB

Plot:



Gus (Eastwood) is an aging pro baseball scouter with a deteriating eye desease that puts to question his continued ability to do his job. With 3 months remaining on his current contract, a young zealous executive name Phillip (Lillard) feels that computers finds the best recruits for the team, so he wants to put Gus out to pasture feeling his way of recruiting is dated. Given one last chance to prove his worth, he is sent to North Carolina to scout a hot shot batter for the potential 1st draft pick. But his best friend and co-worker Pete (Goodman) knows the deck is stacked against him so he pleads with Gus's daughter Mickey (Adams) to meet him there in hopes that she can help him out. Mickey an aspiring attorney caught up trying to make partner at her firm relunctantly agrees to help her father hoping to get a chance to get closure to why he has been so distant from her for so many years.While there, the father/ daughter duo encounter Johnny (Timberlake) another scout there to check out the same talent but is also keeping a sharp eye out for Mickey/


Reel Talk:


Remember seeing Clint Eastwood's Dirty Harry as a grumpy man, well in this film you get to see him as Old Grumpy Dirty Harry...lol. Being an old grumpy man seems to be a role fit for him as he plays the stubborn and stern Gus. This is a charming and delightful but very predictable movie that you will enjoy. With an all star cast that ranges from various ages and talents, they all contribute to this movie at some point. You will also catch Eastwood's son Scott in it as young pro baseballer Billy Clark. Not a great movie but an enjoyable one worth checking out.

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Amy adams, John Goodman, Robert Patrick, Matthew Lillard, Justin Timberlake and Scott Eastwood
Directed by: Robert Lorenz
Rated: PG-13

I give it 3 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

END OF WATCH

Plot:


LAPD Officers Brian Taylor (Gyllenhaal) and Mike Zavala (Pena) patrol the toughest areas in South Central and have gained the reputation of being two of the best on the street, willing to knock down any door and take a bullet for each other all while unlawfully video taping their quest. The latter will soon be put to the test when the two street heros unknowingly stumble upon the illegal operations of the Mexican Crime Cartel who become tiresome of the officers interference and puts a hit out on them. With so much to live for, with Mike and his wife just having adding a newborn to their lives and Brian settling down and marrying his girl Janet (Kendrick), the two still will not take a back seat to the threats from the street but rather continue to take crime head on willing to watch each other's back til death if need be.


Reel Talk:


In this gritty street drama about the LAPD and their battle against the intruding Mexican Cartel, Gyllenhaal and Pena put in compelling performances as the two cops who acknowledge each other as brothers, fearlessly willing to fight law defiers to the death. The movie's action is riveting from the beginning to it's surprising climatic ending. Where I think I could never do the job as a police officer, this movie truly helps you appreciate the very hard and dangerous job that the men in uniform provide us on the daily.Definitely a movie to catch but be warned this is a graphicly violent movie!

Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Pena, Natalie Martinez, Anna Kendrick, David Harbour and Frank Grillo
Directed by: David Ayer
Rated: R

I give it 4 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

PREMIUM RUSH

Plot:

Wilee (Gordon-Levitt) is a talented New York City bicycle courier that lives life on the edge, his philosophy  and how he rides is no gears and no brakes, take whatever  that comes your way head on. Even though that’s a reckless way to live, his life has never been threatened more than when he is assigned to deliver a package from a friend that is also the target for an erratic, compulsive gambling cop named Bobby Monday (Shannon) who must retrieve the package so that his debt to the Chinese mob will be forgiven, so he will stop at nothing to stop Wilee from delivery it. But what the dirty cop doesn’t count on is that Wilee will use all his skills and resources to deliver his package on time, even his cycling courier buddies.

Reel Talk:

On one hand this is an action film junkie’s type of movie because it is action packed pretty much the entire movie but on the other hand it is so farfetched and unbelievable that you may not take it seriously. I understand that cycling and driving can be hectic in NYC, but there is no perfect calculation in either, so the way they were riding in the film is not happening in the real world. But for the sake of entertainment it is a fast paced movie that will keep your attention and Michael Shannon as the dirty cop is hilarious. There is no need to rush for this one unless you are in dire need for some fabricated action.

Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Dania Ramirez, Wole’ Parks, Michael Shannon and Aasif Mandvi

Directed by: David Koepp

Rated: PG-13

I give it 2 and a half eaten corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog – The Reel Hustler

HIT AND RUN

Plot:

Yul Perkin (Shepard) is living in a small quiet township with his girlfriend Annie (Bell) under the witness protection program under the assumed name Charles Bronson. All is great between the two until Annie either must, take a job in LA or become unemployed. When the couple agrees that she should take the job, he promises to drive her there in his super charged classic Lincoln, compromising his safety from the witness protection group.  Once they set out on their journey to LA they realize that they are being pursued by his old gang that he testified against led by Alex Dimitri (Cooper), Annie’s ex-boyfriend Gil (Rosenbaum) and a accident prone U.S. Marshall agent played by Tom Arnold, causing Charles to convert back to some of his unsavory ways as Yul that eventually affects his relationship with Annie.

Reel Talk:

This is a decent movie despite the cheesy written story.  I give credit to Dax Shepard, who I think is a very talented actor on the rise who wrote the cheesy plot, produced, co-directed and starred in with his real life girlfriend Kristen Bell, which their real romance exudes on the screen making it easy for them to perform the couple’s roles. Like I said this is not a great movie, but it is an entertaining film if you’re in need of a worthy date movie. It is also good for a few laughs, of course you can count on Tom Arnold to provide his off brand style of humor for some laughs. Walk, you don’t have to rush out for this one.

Starring: Dax Shepard, Kristen Bell, Tom Arnold, Michael Rosenbaum, Bradley Cooper, Joy Bryant and Beau Bridges.

Directed by: Dax Shepard and David Palmer

Rated: R

I give it 2 and a half eaten corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog – The Reel Hustler

SPARKLE

Plot:


Sparkle (Sparks) is a young talented church going songwriter as well as singer, but would rather take a backseat to her charismatic and sultry but worldly older sister named Sister (Ejogo). While on one of their sneak out the house ventures because of their over protective and GOD fearing mother Emma (Houston), they encounter a young but ambitious manager named Stix (Luke) who wants to make the  two young ladies in addition to their other sister Dolores (Sumpter) a powerhouse girls group that would rival the Supremes. Along with worrying about being caught by their mother, they also have to deal with the negative aspects that comes with being in show business like drugs, domestic abuse and failed relationships, that mainly engulfs Sister as she engages in a dangerous affair with a ruthless comedian named Satin (Epps). Eventually the sisters will realize that the price for fame does not come without the price of blood as all their lives will take drastic changes as they pursue the performance spotlight as singers.


Plot:


I have made no secret that I am a skeptic of remakes, because most remakes don't do the original classics any justice. Well this one is one of the exceptions! Where there are some major changes from the 1976 version to this one, it still works to the advantage in making this a good film. Director Salim Akil does a great job with a superb talented cast that puts in work on this film. You will be compelled with emotions as you watch Whitney Houston in her last screen performance before her unfortunate and untimely death in months to follow. Jordin Sparks delivers big in her cherry popping role as Sparkle, but I must honestly say that Mike Epps performance as the menacing Satin is worthy of an Oscar nomination. This is by far his best role yet as an actor. Filmed entirely in Detroit, some of the city's celebrities such as R&B Artist Kem and actor Sidi Henderson make cameo appearances along with the music from the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin which contributes to an awesome soundtrack. Definitely a must see and be sure to carry a napkin in case you feel the need to shed a tear or two because there are some powerfully emotional moments in this film.

Starring: Jordin Sparks, Whitney Houston, Derek Luke, Mike Epps, Carmen Ejogo, Tamika Sumpter and Omari Hardwick
Directed by: Salim Akil
Rated: PG-13

I give it 4 corn dogs and a soda on the side!

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

Be sure to check out my Red Carpet interview with Jordin Sparks at the the Detroit Premier below the review.

SPARKLE - RED CARPET DETROIT - JORDIN SPARKS - ARETHA FRANKLIN INTERVIEW

TOTAL RECALL

Plot:



Colin Farrell plays Doug Quaid a mine worker who feels dissatisfied with his life, seeking a little more excitement he is introduced by a co-worker to an underground mind vacationing program that would allow him the chance at being a super spy, but there is a set back when it is realized that he is already a top spy named Hauser in real life. Soon he is targeted by his wife Lori (Beckinsale) who is really an agent assigned to stay close to him by organization head Cohaagen (Cranston) and to terminate him if he was to go rogue which now is her primary mission. On the run and hunted by Lori and her squad of robotic goons and unable to determine what is real or a dream, he must enlist the help of a woman Melina (Biel) who he has seen in his dreams so that she can take him to meet Matthias (Nighy) who heads up the rebel forces that are trying to overthrow the corrupted Cohaagen.


Reel Talk:

This is a remake of the 1990 classic film of the same title which starred Arnold Schwarzeneggar. Although I am a hard critic of remakes this one was not that bad, not great but acceptable. It does not compare to the original but offers it's own flair by way of the action (mainly with the cat fight scenes with Beckinsale and Biel) and the good visual ccinematography Not a big Farrell fan, i will say this is one of his more impressive performances. The action is fast and constant so you will stay focused on the screen and it doesn't even matter about the changes in this film, like it takes place on Earth oppose to on Mars in the original. still an entertaining movie worth checking out.

Starring: Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel, Bryan Cranston, Bokeem Woodbine and Bill Nighy
Directed by: Len Wiseman
Rated: PG-13

I give it 3 corn dogs

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

TONY N' TINA'S WEDDING (LAS VEGAS)

Hey I'm back! Sorry I won't post any movie reviews this weekend because I was in Las Vegas for a seminar, so I didn't make any screenings this week. But as you know I am an entertainment correspondent, so while in Vegas I got the opportunity to catch a few shows courtesy of the show's producers. While all the shows were entertaining I most definitely enjoyed the production of Tony n Tina's Wedding. What's unique about this show is that it includes a full three course Italian dinner that places you at the dining table with family members and friends of the wedding couple. Not only will you be eating with them but you will actively take part in the actual antics of the wedding.Trust me, it is hilarious fun that you will certainly enjoy. Between the two dysfunctional families of the two love birds and their over the top friends this comedy dinner show is well worth seeing if you're ever in Las Vegas. You will not be disappointed by either the show or the food. Feel free to contact me for ticket information via email at grosslystated@yahoo.com or contact

COLE
COMPANY MANAGER
TONY N' TINA'S WEDDING LAS VEGAS
(702) 739-4111
www.facebook.com/tonyandtinasweddingvegas
www.tonyandtinavegas.com

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES

Plot:


Gotham City in the midst of bouncing back from the havoc caused from the previous villains in The Dark Knight, encounters another menacing figure in a hulking masked maniac named Bane (Hardy) who is intent on creating massive mayhem upon the city. With Bat Man still considered to be public enemy number one and Bruce Wayne (Bale) living in guilty obscurity unwilling to adorn the crusading costume, there is no opposition to stop Bane from fulfilling his goal. But when Wayne’s fingerprints are stolen by a cat burgalar named Selina (Hathaway) he must come out of retirement so that they don’t fall into the wrong hands. Back together again with his business ally Fox (Freeman) and police commissioner Gordon (Oldman) and joining the team a young hot headed rookie officer named Blake (Gordon-Levitt), the group must utilize all their resources in order to stop the ruthless Bane who has his hands on a nuclear bomb ready to destroy the city at any given moment.


Reel Talk:


First off I would like to express my condolences and support to the victims and their families that were attacked, some killed and many wounded at the opening midnight showing of this film by some deranged assailant. My heart is truly heavy!

This follow up film, the latest in the Bat Man series does not disappoint. Director Christopher Nolan delivers yet another intense, action packed thriller that is certain to do well at the box office.Giving the caped one yet another interesting menacing nemesis in Bane portrayed by Tom Hardy and adding the delicious Ann Hathaway as the Cat Woman increases the stock on this one. With a well written story and the visual dark overtone that now defines the city of Gotham this is a great movie well worth breaking open the piggy bank to check out. Certainly one of the years better movie!

Starring: Christian Bale, Gary Oldman, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Marion Cotillard, Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine
Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Rated: PG-13

I give it 5 corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog – The Reel Hustler

THE OBAMA EFFECT

Plot:


When John Thomas’ (Dutton) health is threaten by a minor heart attack he is forced to make some life changing decisions. The choice he makes is that he will quit his job as an insurance agent and devote his entire attention to the 2008 presidential campaigning of then Senator Barack Obama. He is all in with the outrageous election costumes, overly decorating his home and countless hours that even detaches him from his family. Down to do whatever he can to help Obama win the election, he even tries to enlist the services of his former thug turned legit millionaire nephew MLK (Williams) who just so happens to be a Republican who gives way to strong resistance. But despite all obstacles he is determined to do his part to help Barack Obama become the first ever African American President.



Reel Talk:


Charles S. Dutton who wrote, produced, directed and acts in this movie takes us on a nostalgic flashback to the time leading up to Barack Obama becoming the President of the United States. Although billed a comedy and you will laugh at the ridiculous campaign attire worn by Dutton, as well as Katt Williams’ character as a pimpalicious Republican, it will also have you rethinking about your personal experiences and thoughts during that time period. Your emotions will vary from the multiple tones that this film offers from happy, funny, sad and glad. Despite being made on a limited budget this is still a solid movie that you will enjoy. This movie is worth checking out, even if just to see the history of Obama becoming president all over again

This movie is currently only being shown at select AMC Theaters nationwide. Please check your local listings.

Starring: Charles S. Dutton, Katt Williams, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Meagan Good, Zab Judah and Jenny Gago
Directed by: Charles S. Dutton
Rated: PG-13

I give it 3 and a half eaten corn dogs

By: Corn Dog - The Reel Hustler

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN

(Sorry for the delayed posting, was downed due to technical difficulties)

Plot:


Peter Parker (Garfield) is a smart but nerdy teen that is overlooked by the girls and bullied by the school jocks. Struggling to get an identity he learns that his deceased genius father had been working on a ground breaking scientific project and that he may be able to get some answered from his dad’s former business partner Dr. Curt Connors (Ifans)regarding his father's death. While at the research center he is bitten by a genetically altered spider that eventually gives him super powers that mimics a spider, making way for him to take to a life of crime fighting where he hopes to avenge the murder of his Uncle Ben (Sheen). He realizes that the life of a crime fighter is not warmly accepted as he is considered a criminal vigilante by Capt. Stacy (Leary) of the NYC police and ordered to be apprehended at any expense. With the law on his back he still sets out to protect the city as it becomes threatened by a giant genetically altered lizard that wants to turn the entire city population of humans into lizards.



Reel Talk:


This is a remake of the 2002 classic Spider Man that starred Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst but I only ask “WHY”? Why try to remake a classic? Why must we choose between the two? Because the bottom line is that one is going to fall short and in this case it’s the remake. Not a bad movie by any means but it lacked the intensity of the original. It starts out rather slow and picks up momentum midway through which hopefully you can survive til then. Andrew Garfield lacks the charisma that made Maguire’s Parker likeable. The original also took you more in depth with Parker’s character and provided more action. Billed as The Amazing Spider-Man it should be billed as just The Average Spider-Man. Still die hard Marvel Comic fans will enjoy it, just not something that has to be rushed out to see.

Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Martin Sheen and Sally Field
Directed by: Marc Webb
Rated: PG-13

I give it 3 corn dogs

By: Corn Dog – The Reel Hustler

PEOPLE LIKE US

Plot:


Chris Pine plays Sam, a young ambitious fast talking commodity broker that pretty much always closes the deal, until one backfires and cost him his huge commission and possibly his job. While dead lined to correct the situation he is notified that his father, a once famous rock and roll manager, has passed and he is summoned to Los Angeles by his Mother (Pfeiffer) to attend the funeral. Reluctantly Sam, because of his estranged relationship with his father, along with his girlfriend Hannah (Wilde) arrives in LA late and misses the service which causes tension between him and his mother. When he meets with the family attorney to settle issues regarding the will, he is instructed to give a shaving kit filled with money to a young struggling bar maid named Frankie (Banks) and her smart but troubled son who he will soon find out that they are his sister and nephew from an extramarital affair by his father. On the fence about whether to take the money, keeping it for himself or give it to them, he forms a relationship with the woman and boy without informing them about their blood ties which may only complicate matters in the future.


Reel Talk:


This was a good movie, a little far fetched that he didn’t just come right out with the truth about the situation but if he had the movie would have been a short film, so for the sack of stretching out the film let’s say “That’s Hollywood”. Still this has a good storyline and good cast that put in good performances for their respected characters. It tells the compelling story of the possibilities of you never know who you might be related to because what’s the saying that we are all six degrees of separation. And that you should come right out and tell the truth off the rip because that is what you do in reality. A good movie worth checking out and you will surely enjoy it.

Starring: Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Michael Hall D’Addario, Michelle Pfeiffer and Olivia Wilde
Directed by: Alex Kurtzman
Rated: PG-13

I give it 3 and a half eaten corn dogs.

By: Corn Dog – The Reel Hustler