Star Trek: Into Darkness (credit: Paramount Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews J.J. Abrams’ blockbuster sequel, “Star Trek: Into Darkness” starring Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto & Zoe Saldana.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS (PG-13)

There are aspects of this film that work: the familiar characters of Kirk, Spock, Scotty and the rest of the Enterprise are perfectly cast. I like an intelligent, articulate villain, and we have that with the BBC’s Sherlock Holmes’ Benedict Cumberbatch.

However, this popcorn morality play is more blockbuster summer fun than thoughtful science fiction. I missed really smart, emotional moments, a emotionally resonant story mixed in with these clever characters.

But, at least it’s brash, full of action and filled with moments of humor. Like The Great Gatsby, known here as the Good Gatsby, this one is three hats and worth seeing if you want to blast off into escapism.

Three hats.

 
Movies To See Right Now: The Sapphires, 42, The Company You Keep, Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s, Disconnect & The Place Beyond the Pines

Home Viewing/DVD: Cloud Atlas, Liz and Dick (for campy, bad acting as Lindsay Lohan attempts Taylor), HBO’s Behind the Candelabra (May 26)

 
You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Toby McGuire & Leonardo DiCaprio (credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “The Great Gatsby”, director Baz Luhrmann’s attempt to bring F. Scott Fitzgerald’s seminal 1920’s novel to the big screen.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
THE GREAT GATSBY (PG-13)

Let’s be grateful for something in this season that is not a superhero. We’ve been fortunate with 42 and The Sapphires; now it’s time for the imaginative Baz Luhrmann to take on F.Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel.

This is the tale of a mysterious and rich man in the Roaring Twenties – or is he trying to pass for rich? Nick narrates; a neighbor to Gatsby and a way to Gatsby’s dream woman, Daisy.

Here’s what works: the gorgeous sets (fun in 3D), cinematography as intoxicating as a Gatsby party, fabulous period fashion, and Leonardo DiCaprio is charismatic. The bad news is a weird soundtrack that takes us out of the period, a lack of emotional resonance, as if the director relished the period but found the book a burden.

Carey Mulligan is dull and mopey – this Daisy wilts. It should have been a Great Gatsby, instead it’s a good Gatsby.

Three hats.

 
Movies To See Right Now: 42, The Sapphires, Kon-Tiki, The Company You Keep and At Any Price

Home Viewing/DVD: Lincoln, Silver Linings Playbook & Zero Dark Thirty

 
You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Scene from ‘At Any Price’ (credit: Sony Pictures Classics)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews a trio of new movies; “At Any Price”, a drama starring Dennis Quaid and Zac Efron, “The Reluctant Fundamentalist”, which is about a Pakastani man trying to make it in America in the midst of societal conflict, and “Burt Stern: Oringial Mad Man”, a documentary about one of the visionaries of photography in advertising.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

AT ANY PRICE (R)

Zac Efron starred in one of my favorite movies: Me and Orson Welles. Now he gets another good role as a rebel with a cause. He doesn’t want to be a farmer like his father, he wants to race cars. His father is beautifully played by Dennis Quaid, as a desperate charmer and hustler.

Fine rural detail, a reality based story of the powerful agribusiness versus the family farm. Will play fine on DVD, but fine big screen storytelling, too.

 
THE RELUCTANT FUNDAMENTALIST (R)

Based on a novel about a young Pakistani man, Director Mira Nair gives us a troubling, engrossing tale. Riz Ahmed plays the title role, going from Princeton to success on Wall Street, back to Pakistan as a professor, then on to the CIA and militants.

There’s a love story mixed in, the best I’ve seen Kate Hudson ever. Also costarring Liev Shreiber and Keifer Sutherland, it’s smart but uncomfortable in these troubled times.

 
BERT STERN: ORIGINAL MADMAN (NO RATING)

Take a voyage into the life of a man who changed advertising and photography. From selling products in a new way to Marilyn Monroe’s last sitting, this is not only the story of marketing in a new way, but of a man who outgrows his passion, but never for women.

Intimate and interesting, especially for those who follow our culture’s way of selling products and people.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: The Sapphires & 42

Home Viewing/DVD: Broken City, The Guilt Trip, Strictly Ballroom (re-issue) & Silver Linings Playbook.

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Cast of “The Big Wedding” (credit: Lionsgate)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “The Big Wedding”, which she says is a romantic comedy with an impressive cast of stars but a dearth of intelligence.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

THE BIG WEDDING (R)

Robert De Niro, Susan Sarandon, Diane Keaton, Robin Williams, smart actors, all Oscar winners. Katherine Heigl, Topher Grace, big stars, big money behind this romantic comedy. You also see lush and exciting sets, because these are very wealthy people who are all getting together to decide that they are going to act like they’re together in order for a family wedding to come off.

This movie is stupid on every level. Nothing feels real. All these good actors are completely wasted. If they would have had one less actor and maybe one additional screenplay person, it could have helped. It’s too bad, such a waste.

Williams is a priest, DeNiro is a bohemian artist, this could have been good, but it’s clichéd & impossible. It feels as if the movie thinks the audience is stupid. So wait until DVD and prove them wrong.

Don’t invite yourself…Wait for the Blu-Ray/DVD…

Movies To See Right Now: 42, The Sapphires, The Company You Keep and Quartet

Home Viewing/DVD: Lincoln, Searching For Sugerman & Zero Dark Thirty

Upcoming Blu-Ray-DVD Releases: Silver Linings Playbook (04/30)

 
You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

“The Angels Share” (credit: © 2012 – Sixteen Films)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “The Angels’ Share”, a Scottish film about a man trying to straighten out his troubled life after being inspired in a whiskey distillery. Jan also reviews “Room 237″

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
THE ANGELS SHARE (R)

Winner of the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, director Ken Loach gives us the tale of a young Scottish man (Paul Brannigan) who is has a criminal mind and associates with a violent crowd. All that changes when he finds himself a as a new father and he becomes determined to give his son a good life.

Once the thugs and fights end—about half way into the film—a story about whiskey makes the movie fun, touching and gets us rooting for a band of misfits. The title refers to the 2 percent of whiskey distilleries lose to evaporation. It fits this eventually charming Scottish film that thankfully has subtitles.

Two & 1/2 hats.

 
ROOM 237 (NOT RATED)

This eccentric, subjective documentary reminds us that filmgoers can turn obsessive, spending time, money and their dreams decoding what a movie means and what the director was hiding. This one is about Stanley Kubrick’s ‘The Shining’ (1980). Director Rodney Asher finds devout fans that have developed the meaning behind symbols and messages buried deeply within the film.

If you love Kubrick or ‘The Shining,’ the cinematic obsession, dissecting symbols and mysteries will mean something to you. Otherwise this is too long and many of the interviewees not well chosen. Wait until DVD.

 
Movies To See Right Now: 42, The Sapphires, The Company You Keep, Jurassic Park 3-D, Quartet

Home Viewing/DVD: Lincoln, Searching For Sugerman & Zero Dark Thirty

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson in “42″ (credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl says “42” hit it out of the park, but questions whether “The Company You Keep” should be decided by Robert Redford.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

42 (PG-13)

Here’s to you, Jackie Robinson. He died in 1972 at the age of 53, but he lives forever not only as a great baseball player, but as a courageous American who left a legacy far beyond the field. We meet a complicated, talented Jackie played with authenticity by Chadwick Boseman. He’s asked by Major League Baseball executive Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford) to break the color barrier by playing in the big leagues.

Everyone should see this movie, that’s how good it is. Director Brian Helgeland won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for “LA Confidential” in 1997. He writes this one too, giving us a fierce and ultimately noble movie that is true cinematic storytelling.

I watched it with Little League players, and they were inspired. They couldn’t wait to get home and learn more about Jackie Robinson and the civil rights movement. This movie works. I’m giving it my highest rating. Please, do not miss ’42’.

Four hats.

Shia LaBeouf in “The Company You Keep” (credit: Sony Pictures Classics)

THE COMPANY YOU KEEP (R)

Robert Redford directs and starts in this movie about members of the Weather Underground who have been in hiding for decades. What should have been an exciting, passionate movie is, unfortunately, a little bit too intellectual. Still, it’s important to see this drama about Americans who thought they were changing the world.

Three hats.

 
Movies To See Right Now:  Quartet, The Gatekeepers, Lore, Silver Linings Playbook, & Life of Pi

Home Viewing/DVD: Les Miserables, Zero Dark Thirty & This is 40

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Scene from “Reality” (credit: Oscilloscope Laboratories)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor, Jan Wahl reviews “Reality,” a dark comedy from Italy starring Aniello Arena, Paola Minaccioni and Loredana Simioli. Directed by Matteo Garrone. Also reviewed; “Jurassic Park 3D” starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum. Directed by Steven Spielberg.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

REALITY (R)

From “A Face in the Crowd” (1957) to “The King of Comedy” (1982), we’ve seen people unraveled by imagined fame. Luciano, is a charming fishmonger in Naples, Italy. He has a loving family and close friends, but all that is forgotten after he auditions for the Big Brother TV Show.

Soon, he becomes obsessed and paranoid about the fake world of “reality” TV. The lead actor, Aniello Arena, was discovered in a prison theatre production. This cautionary tale, based on a true story, speaks to us across all languages. In Italian with English subtitles.

Three hats.

____________________________________________________

Scene from “Jurassic Park” (credit: Universal Pictures)

 
JURASSIC PARK 3D (PG-13)

Twenty years ago this sci-fi action film captured the public imagination and swept the box office. Too many movies have recently been converted to 3-D from 2-D, but here is one movie that benefits not only from the reissue but the reconceived.

The story of a scientist and his wondrous animal park is beautifully produced, written and directed with simplicity, heart and perfectly-timed thrills by Steven Spielberg. If a new generation of moviegoers is finally seeing this movie, I hope they study Spielberg’s storytelling skills. If you’ve already seen it, see it again in 3-D. This is popcorn fun.

Four hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: The Sapphires, Quartet & Silver Linings Playbook

Home Viewing/DVD: Lincoln, Searching For Sugerman & Zero Dark Thirty

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

‘The Sapphires’ (credit: The Weinstein Company)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “The Sapphires”, the true story of a group of Aboriginal girls from Australia who persevered though racial hardships to form a musical Motown group.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

THE SAPPHIRES (PG-13)

It’s 1968. Four young, talented Australian girls join forces with the help of an alcoholic manager and form a Motown group. When they go to entertain troops in Vietnam, they learn about friendship, forgiveness, war and showbiz. The girls themselves are ambitious, gutsy, complicated. Chris O’Dowd recognizes their talent, though their own country responds with racism and contempt because they are Aboriginal.

This musical “dramady” works on every level, with characters and situations you connect with and care about. Do not leave until the final credits. It’s inspiring to know that this is a true story, co-written by one of the Sapphire’s children. Find out what happened to these remarkable girls after the songs were sung.

Four hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now:  The Gatekeepers, Silver Linings Playbook, & Quartet,

Home Viewing/DVD:  Lincoln, Zero Dark Thirty, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, A Royal Affair & Life of Pi

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Tina Fey & Paul Rudd (credit: Focus Features)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “On The Road”, an adaption of Jack Kerouac’s generation-defining novel starring Garrett Hedlund, Sam Riley, and Kristen Stewart. Also reviewed; “Admission”, a comedy starring Tina Fey and Paul Rudd.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

ADMISSION (PG-13)

30 Rock meets This is 40. Tina Fey and Paul Rudd – I’m a fan of both. But in their new movie about higher education, do they flunk the test?

Fey is a longtime admissions officer at Princeton. This is her story and she can play it, unfortunately the script often lets her down. Rudd is a likeable guy, better than both is Lilly Tomlin as a feminist and fun mother. She provides the comedy in this “dramady” but the film is saddled with a tale of adoption and desperation. Wait for DVD. This one unfortunately fails.

One hat.

____________________________________________________

“On The Road” (credit: Sundance Selects)

ON THE ROAD (R)

She was Joan Jett in The Runaways, a brilliant performance. Sure there are those Twighlight movies, but when given a good part, this young woman, Kristen Stewart, can act.

She’s the teenage bride of Dean, a character based on Neal Cassidy, who goes on the road with Jack Kerouac at a time when the Beat movement had these free lovin’ people driving the bus.

Director Walter Salles gives the film the dark, confusing yet sometimes euphoric feeling of the beloved novel, with some good actors, including Viggo Mortensen as William Burroughs and Kirsten Dunst.

Two & 1/2 hats.

____________________________________________________

Home Viewing/DVD: Les Miserables, Zero Dark Thirty & This is 40

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Children of Love Canal Protest in “A Fierce Green Fire” (credit: Mark Kitchell/First Run Features)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “A Fierce Green Fire”, a documentary about the efforts and goals of environmental activism. Wahl also gives a few film suggestions to help celebrate the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day holiday.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

A FIERCE GREEN FIRE (NO RATING)

In the 20th century, environmentalism was a signature movement. Activists attempted to regulate toxic waste, save baby seals and whales, preserve forests and track climate change. This film focuses on the movement’s early days, illuminating leaders in the fight over issues like Love Canal, the Amazonian rain forest and the beginnings of Green Peace and the Sierra Club.

Robert Redford, Ashley Judd, Isabel Allende and Meryl Streep narrate.

The problem with the film is, while it is educational and should be seen, it stays so one-sided that the passion and energy gets lost.

Three hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Quartet, The Gatekeepers, Lore, Silver Linings Playbook, & Life of Pi

Home Viewing/DVD: Lincoln & Hitchcock

St. Patrick’s Day Recommendations: The Quiet Man, Circle of Friends, Far and Away, The Commitments, Darby O’Gill & The Little People

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Disney’s new blockbuster, “Oz The Great and Powerful”. This prequel of the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz” tells the story of how a small town magician named Oscar becomes the titular Oz.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL (PG)

This is a big budget, big special effects movie. It starts magically, with the 3-D glasses taking us on a journey with a cut rate magician who travels with a small circus. As played by James Franco, he seduces women and then flees – a little too much reality.

PHOTOS: ‘Oz The Great And Powerful’

Inspired by L. Frank Baum’s novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz mixed with a prequel of the classic movie, the story takes place 25 years before Dorothy and her friends. When Franco ends up in Oz, he meets three witches. All of them are girls after him – one even turns green when he shares affection.

What happened to the strong girls and women of Wicked, the film classic or the Baum novels?

Franco plays it like acting school. Robert Downey Jr. was originally signed, and who knew Michelle Williams as Glinda could be so dull? The good news: gorgeous visuals and the first hour 3-D is worth it. Disney didn’t have the right to the iconic imagery; they could have filled it in with more heart. It is too long, but thankfully most kids will not be scared. There’s no place like home… a possible place for this beautifully visual but somewhat disappointing epic.

Two & 1/2 hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Silver Linings Playbook, The Gatekeepers, Quartet, Lincoln, Life of Pi, Zero Dark Thirty & Les Miserables

Home Viewing/DVD: The Untouchables, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Arbitrage, Bernie & Argo

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Scene from “Lore” (credit: Music Box Films)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Lore,” a German-language film that chronicles the Post-World War II journey of a group of children whose parents were part of the Nazi regime.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

LORE (NOT RATED)

When we are fortunate, a movie gives us a totally different perspective.

Case in point: this German language, Australian directed film takes us on an unusual journey. World War II is over. A 14 year old girl and her four siblings have to run from the Allies. Why? Their parents, who left them, were highly placed SS officers.

The teen leads her young family through Germany, putting her faith into a Jewish man recently out of a Concentration Camp.

Powerful, touching, and a look at how children are devastated by hate. Saskia Rosendahl and Kai Malina lead a strong cast, directed by Cate Shortland.

Three hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: The Gatekeepers, Silver Linings Playbook, Quartet, & Life of Pi

Home Viewing/DVD: Argo, How to Survive a Plague, Bernie & The Untouchables

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

“The Gatekeepers” (credit: Sony Pictures Classics)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews two documentaries; “The Gatekeepers” which tells the story of members of the Israeli Secret Service, and Werner Herzog’s “Happy People: A Year in the Taiga”, that takes audiences to a tiny village in Siberia. Sunday’s Oscars ceremony is also previewed.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

THE GATEKEEPERS (PG-13)

Nominated for the coveted Best Documentary Feature at this year’s Oscars, this tells the story of some guys who live dangerous lives – this group has commanded Shin Bet, Israel’s Secret Service – raising the question, for the last thirty years, what has it been like to be the one who decides life and death?

It’s not political – but humanistic, as we understand misgivings, mistakes and compromise. Searching for Sugar Man will win the Best Documentary Oscar, but this is a solid…

Three hats.

____________________________________________________

 
HAPPY PEOPLE: A YEAR IN THE TAIGA (NOT RATED)

Most of us know director Werner Herzog and some of his work: Grizzly Man and Cave of Forgotten Dreams, to name a few. He is an unusual filmmaker – of both documentaries and features.

This time, he takes us to a tiny village in Siberia (“Taiga” refers to the subarctic forest at the edge of the tundra). Dog and man survive in this extreme, harsh land, and it’s clear Herzog admires this. The director’s voiceovers make the film less dull.

A disappointing Two Hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Life of Pi, Silver Linings Playbook, Zero Dark Thirty, 56 Up, Quartet, & Lincoln

Home Viewing/DVD: Argo & Cabaret (restored)

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Bruce Willis & Jai Courtney in ‘A Good Day To Die Hard’ (credit: Twentieth Century Fox)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “A Good Day to Die Hard”, starring Bruce Willis, the latest installment in the long-running series which features protagonist John McClane looking for his son in Russia. Also reviewed: “56 Up”, the latest in an ongoing documentary series from director Michael Apted that has followed a group of individuals from Brita.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

A GOOD DAY TO DIE HARD (R)

This movie is a reminder that the first film in a series, in this case Die Hard, is usually the best. But, there is always reason to hope since Bruce Willis surprises us with good character acting, recently Moonrise Kingdom.

Action movies can be great, from The Fugitive to Argo and Zero Dark Thirty. Action can also be fun – think Stand Up Guys. But, A Good Day To Die Hard misses on all fronts. The screenplay is badly written, the casting – aside from Willis – is dull, plus the car crashes and stunts are unbelievable. The only good thing about this is that it is not long.

One hat, and wait for DVD

____________________________________________________

56 UP (NOT RATED)

This unusual, ongoing documentary begins in 1964. Director Michael Apted interviewed children from diverse British backgrounds, asking them about their dreams and lives. A new movie allows viewers to revisit them every few years. Now, the subjects are in their fifties.

Apted knows how to tell a story – giving us disappointment, joy, and surprise in a way we relate to in our own lives. This director has given us feature films like Coal Miner’s Daughter and Gorillas in the Mist.

Three hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Quartet, Stand Up Guys, Les Miserables, Silver Linings Playbook, Lincoln & Argo

Home Viewing/DVD: Skyfall, Best In Show (restored), On the Waterfront (restored)

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Melissa McCarthy in “Identity Thief” (credit: Universal Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Identity Thief,” starring Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

IDENTITY THIEF (R)

This is one of those movies that turns you to a higher power – as in, please Lord, make this movie end. Two usually funny people, Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids, Mike and Molly) and Jason Bateman (one of the greatest sitcoms ever: Arrested Development) star in this misguided weirdness. Not only is this not funny, it’s sad to follow a violent, lying thief (McCarthy) stealing a poor guy’s identity, turning him into a felon and worse. You can tell a movie is in trouble when repetitive beating, jabs,kicks, car crashes and snacks all turn up but for no apparent reason. This movie should be rated G – for garbage.

No hats

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Stand Up Guys & Quartet

Home Viewing/DVD: Arbitrage, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel & Bernie

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

(L-R) Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin & Al Pacino (credit: Roadside Attractions)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Stand Up Guys,” starring Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin, about the reuniting of a trio of charismatic gangsters.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

STAND UP GUYS (R)

From The Godfather to The Sopranos, when gangsters have identifiable personalities, we tend to forgive them. Here, we meet three guys who are seriously committing crimes, and seriously charismatic. They reunite for one long night, each having a different agenda. Al Pacino is finally out of prison after 28 years, and his best friend Christopher Walken is determined to entertain him on his possible last night of his life. Droll Alan Arkin is a colleague they kidnap.

What makes it work is their unique, relatable, often very funny personalities, with unusually articulate dialogue, and sensitive direction by Fisher Stevens. There is some graphic violence, but it is not gratuitous. Three and a half hats and a special hats off for not being too long.

Three & 1/2 hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Quartet, Life of Pi, Lincoln, Argo, Les Miserables & Silver Linings Playbook

Home Viewing/DVD: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Bernie, Cabaret (Restored)

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Pauline Collins & Maggie Smith in “Quartet” (credit: The Weinstein Company)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Dustin Hoffman’s directorial debut in “Quartet,” starring Maggie Smith, Billy Connolly, Michael Gambon and Tom Courtenay.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

 
QUARTET (PG-13)

From Midnight Cowboy to Rain Man and so many others, we are all aware of Dustin Hoffman’s talents as an actor. But, apparently he wants to direct as well.

Dustin Hoffman’s directorial debut (credit: The Weinstein Company)

In this directorial debut, Hoffman presents us with the talented and musical residents in a home for retired opera singers and musicians. Suddenly, everyone gets excited because a true opera diva is about to move in. That would be Maggie Smith, getting a chance to play it glamorous, romantic and caustic.

Tom Courtenay, Pauline Collins and the very funny Scottish Billy Connolly co-star with whimsy and charm mixed with the reality of aging with courage and humor. Dustin Hoffman has crafted a movie for those tired of gangsters and guns. This is human, musical, and a reminder that there may be great surprises as time goes by.

Three & 1/2 hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Lincoln, Beasts of The Southern Wild, Les Miserables, Zero Dark Thirty & Silver Linings Playbook

Home Viewing/DVD: Arbitrage, Trouble With The Curve & The Words

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Catherine Zeta-Jones & Russell Crowe in “Broken City” (credit: 20th Century Fox)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews the dramatic thriller “Broken City,” starring Mark Wahlberg, Russell Crowe, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Barry Pepper and Kyle Chandler.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

____________________________________________________

 
BROKEN CITY (R)

Broken City is like an expensive, all-star episode of law and order. That’s not bad when it comes to movie escapism, especially when you’re talking Russell Crowe and Mark Wahlberg facing off in a political crime thriller. Wahlberg plays a former policeman turned private detective who’s thrown headfirst into trouble when the Mayor of New York (Crowe) hires him to investigate his wife (Catherine Zeta Jones).

Mark Wahlberg (credit: 20th Century Fox)

There are a few too many twists and turns; it’s easy to be confused – but not boring. I give a special hats off to a lack of graphic blood — a reminder that exploding bodies isn’t necessary for a movie’s excitement or tension. There’s also some beautiful cinematography of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Fine for DVD.

Two hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Lincoln, Beasts of The Southern Wild, Les Miserables, Zero Dark Thirty & Silver Linings Playbook

Home Viewing/DVD: Arbitrage, Trouble With The Curve & The Words

In Theatres: Anything Goes (through Feb. 3 at Golden Gate Theatre)

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

(L-R) Ryan Gosling, Josh Brolin, Michael Peña, Robert Patrick & Anthony Mackie “Gangster Squad” (credit: Wilson Webb/Columbia Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Gangster Squad,” starring and Sean Penn and Ryan Gosling, about the LAPD’s fight to keep Mickey Cohen and the East Coast mafia out of Los Angeles in the 1950s. Also “California Solo” about a former Britpop rocker who has settled into a comfortably numb existence in farm country just outside Los Angeles. Starring Robert Carlyle, Alexia Rasmussen, Michael des Barres and Danny Masterson.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
GANGSTER SQUAD (R)

The year is 1949 and Los Angeles may just be taken over by Mickey Cohen. The film beautifully recreates nightclubs, neighborhoods and hoods in general of L.A. But, it is the vicious Cohen that a group of police is determined to bring down.

As good as this group of brave lawmen (Ryan Gosling, Josh Brolin) is, the movie is made truly interesting and exciting by Sean Penn. Penn plays it psychotic yet compelling, wish there was more about him. The movie is too violent, the graphic blood and gunplay bringing it down.

Two & 1/2 hats.

____________________________________________________

Alexia Rasmussen & Robert Carlyle in “California Solo” (credit: Matthew Barnes/Strand Releasing)

 
CALIFORNIA SOLO (R)

Robert Carlyle, who many of us know as the leader of the guys in The Full Monty, plays a former British rocker now worker on an organic farm by day and a podcast about tragic rock stars at night.

When he’s cited for DUI, his life changes and he’s forced to confront his demons. Carlyle makes us feel the pain of post-fame life and the challenge of making peace with the past.

Two & 1/2 hats.

____________________________________________________

Movies To See Right Now: Amour, Zero Dark Thirty, Silver Linings Playbook, Life of Pi, Les Miserables

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie & Arbitrage

In Theatre: Anything Goes (through Feb. 3 at Golden Gate Theatre)

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Oscar Award-winner, Kathryn Bigelow’s “Zero Dark Thirty” starring Jessica Chastain and Luis Bunuel’s 1970 restored masterpiece, “Tristana” starring Catherine Deneuve & Fernando Rey.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

It’s rare that directors give us two good movies in a row but Kathryn Bigelow has managed to follow The Hurt Locker with this gripping action film. It has been controversial, with three U.S. Senators calling the movie “grossly inaccurate” for its suggestion that CIA torture led to the capture of Osama bin Laden.

A strong woman is at the center of this story, despite resistance from her supervisors and colleagues she is determined to follow her own instincts and information when it comes to finding bin Laden. Jessica Chastain is forthright and clear, a performance certain to be Oscar nominated.

The first twenty minutes are the controversial torture scenes. As a movie, well paced and engrossing.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

TRISTANA (PG)

Beautifully restored, Luis Bunuel’s 1970 masterpiece is about a young woman who is corrupted by her guardian. When she seeks to escape with her lover, life gets intense and complication for everyone.

A great cast, Spanish scenery and Bunerl’s usual satire and visual intelligence makes this a movie to see again, especially restored.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: The Guilt Trip, Les Miserables, Lincoln, Argo, Promised Land and Silver Linings Playbook

Home Viewing/DVD: Arbitrage, Trouble With the Curve, Bernie and The Words
You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Matt Damon (credit: Focus Features)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Promised Land,” starring Matt Damon & John Krasinski. Plus the epic, “Les Miserables” with Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
PROMISED LAND (R)

This makes me think about movies like ‘On The Waterfront’ and ‘Norma Rae’, movies that illuminate social and political conditions. Well this time it’s about the relevant idea of fracking— the leasing of land for natural gas drilling.

Matt Damon stars in the film with a screenplay written by John Krasinski. Gus Van Sant directs this interesting film about what happens in a small rural American town when a gas company wants to drill. So we have this environmental story with political ramifications, but we don’t really get a sense of what kinds of emotions would entail a situation like this.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

Les Miserables Movie Poster (credit: Universal Pictures)

 
LES MISERABLES (PG-13)

Les Mis on the other hand is big and intimate. Basically the shallow version of this deep story is about a man who gets into a lot of trouble for stealing a loaf of bread. We follow him (he’s portrayed by Hugh Jackman who’s terrific) in this Tom Hooper directed film. You may recall Hooper also delivered with “The King’s Speech”. A fun fact is that they sing live, it’s not lip-synched.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: Argo, Life of Pi, Flight, Lincoln, Hitchcock, Silver Linings Playbook, Chasing Ice, and A Royal Affair

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie, The Bourne Legacy, and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

(L-R) Paul Rudd & Leslie Mann (credit: Universal Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews ‘This Is 40′ with Paul Rudd & Leslie Mann, ‘Rust & Bone’ starring Marion Cotillard & ‘The Guilt Trip’ with Barbra Streisand & Seth Rogen.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

—————————————————-

THIS IS 40 (R)

Filmmaker Judd Apatow has the best PR in Hollywood – and after this comedy, it’s easy to understand that money, ego and favors go far in showbiz. We revisit a couple from Knocked Up, a funnier Apatow movie. The couple is facing middle age, parental challenges and a bogus financial crisis. None of this rings true, but a few moments are fun. Apatow has cast his two children as the children in the film, and his wife Leslie Mann as Paul Rudd’s wife in the film. She is bad, vain and brittle but not able to pull off the natural comedy that comes easy to Rudd.

One hat.

But stay for the closing credits since it’s always good to see Melissa McCarthy.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Matthias Schoenarts & Marion Cotillard (credit: Sony Pictures Classics)

 
RUST AND BONE (R)

I’ve been a Marion Cotillard fan since she brilliantly played the tortured Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose. She won an Oscar for that and will most likely be nominated for this.

In this French Belgium production, Cotillard plays a whale trainer at a local marine park. A horrendous accident occurs and she is life both changed and challenged. If there was more about her and her back-story, the film would have been better. Much of it is about a bitter single father and drifter, played by Matthias Schoenaerts.

This is a strong year for foreign film, including Amore, The Matchmaker and my favorite: The Untouchables. This is worth seeing for its sensitive performances and strong story. In French.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Seth Rogen & Barbra Streisand (credit: Paramount Pictures

 
THE GUILT TRIP (PG-13)

Once in a while we get a warm comedy that doesn’t need to spend half of its time in the bathroom and bedroom. Two quality performers play mother and son in this road picture. Seth Rogen and Barbra Streisand are mother and son taking a cross county trip. Because it isn’t overplayed and these major characters seem familiar and comical to us, it’s a fun and breezy movie when a cinematic escape is needed.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: Any Day Now, Silver Linings Playbook, The Sessions, Life of Pi, Lincoln, and Argo

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and Hermano

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

(L-R) Alan Cumming & Garret Dillahunt (credit: Music Box Films)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Hyde Park on the Hudson,” starring Bill Murray and Laura Linley, about the bizarre sexual relationship between FDR and Margaret Stuckley in 1939. Also Jan reviews “Any Day Now” starring Alan Cumming and “The Matchmaker.”

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

—————————————————-

 
ANY DAY NOW (R)

Alan Cumming has long been a celebrated actor, thanks to stellar performances in everything from Cabaret to The Good Wife to his introductions of Masterpiece Theatre. Now, he stars in this story of love, acceptance and family. When a handicapped child (Isaac Leyva) is abandoned by his mother, a gay couple is determined to adopt him so they can give him the family he never had. Authorities decide the men must fight the legal system.

Touching, thoughtful, beautifully acted. Directed by Travis Fine from a true story.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Laura Linley & Bill Murray (credit: Focus Features)

 
HYDE PARK ON THE HUDSON (R)

It’s a single weekend in June 1939. President and First Lady Roosevelt are hosting the King and Queen of England at the Roosevelt upstate New York estate. This would have been interesting on its own, had Franklin and Eleanor been given depth and reality. Instead, most of the movie is about FDR as a lecherous manipulator and Eleanor is only present for about five minutes. The female we follow in this shallow and insulting movie is FDR’s cousin, played as bland and clueless by Laura Linley. Bill Murray is fine as FDR but the rest of the movie turns what could have been smart and entertaining into a useless soap opera.

One hat.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Adir Miller, Maya Dagan and Tuval Shafir (credit: Menemsha Films)

 
THE MATCHMAKER (NR – w/ English Subtitles)

The year is 1968, and we’re in a seedy quarter of Haifa, Israel. In this touching drama, we meet a mysterious, large man with a scarred face who walks with a cane. He has an unusual profession: he finds romantic matches for “special people.” He enlists the help of a teenage boy and a woman who gives dating lessons and runs an illegal gambling club.

This movie was nominated for seven Israeli Oscars, not a surprise since it is full of heart and depth.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: Argo, Life of Pi, Flight, Lincoln, Hitchcock, Silver Linings Playbook, Chasing Ice, and A Royal Affair

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie, The Bourne Legacy, and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

We meet the charming, handsome Mr. Butler as a soccer star who has missed the goal as he tries to get his life back. Along with getting a career recharged, he is trying to rebuild a relationship with his young son and ex wife. He begins to coach his son’s soccer team while trying to get a job in sports broadcasting. Unfortunately, this guy is easily confused, and the soccer moms are in pursuit of him – along with a pushy soccer dad.

Co-stars Jessica Biel, Uma Thurman, Dennis Quaid and Catherine Zeta-Jones are wasted in this silly, cliched, predictable movie.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

See right now recommendations: Lincoln, Life of Pi, Flight, The Sessions, Argo, Hitchcock.

DVD/home viewing recommendations: The Dark Knight Rises, Hope Springs, The Odd Life of Timothy Green.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Tanna Frederick & Judd Nelson (credit: © 2012 Rainbow Films)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Henry Jaglom’s “Just 45 Minutes From Broadway” starring Tanna Frederick and Judd Nelson.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
JUST 45 MINUTES FROM BROADWAY (R)

So many good movies to see right now: Lincoln, Life of Pi, Hitchcock, Silver Linings Playbook to name a few. These are big screen experiences. This new film by Henry Jaglom is a tribute to an acting family, dramatic both on and off the stage. People who are inside the acting profession will find more to connect with, and will enjoy it on a personal level. The rest may wait until a small screen release.

Jaglom uses improv, melodrama, high emotion and low comedy, with a starring role by Tanna Frederick. Unfortunately, she is not a likeable anchor to this story of family sensitivities and pressure, a different actress would have helped. Judd Nelson is a sense of reality in the chaos as a visiting civilian to this world of actors. Jaglom adds some wonderful classic showbiz tunes.

Two hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: Lincoln, Skyfall, A Royal Affair, Chasing Ice, The Sessions, Anna Karenina, Silver Linings Playbook, and Argo and Hitchcock.

Home Viewing/DVD: Sparkle, Men in Black 3, Bernie, Brave, The Campaign, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

 
You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Pi Patel and a fierce Bengal Tiger named Richard Parker (credit: Rhythm & Hues/20th Century Fox)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews three films this week. The first, Jan explores Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi” starring Suraj Sharma and Gerard Depardieu. Next Jan reviews ‘Hitchcock’ starring Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson, Toni Collette and Jessica Biel. Finally, the documentary “Chasing Ice” about award-winning National Geographic photographer, James Balog.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
LIFE OF PI (PG)

A family moves its zoo halfway around the world. On the journey, a teen is stranded on a lifeboat with a tiger. Sounds impossible to film, but turns out to be a remarkable, touching movie.

Director Ang Lee (Brokeback Mountain, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) took the best-selling novel and made it a painstakingly authentic odyssey, pushing the boundaries of 3-D technology, visual effects and cinematic storytelling.

Suraj Sharma is Pi, grounding this remarkable saga with humanity. It’s a surprise and one to see on the big screen.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Toni Collette, Anthony Hopkins & Helen Mirren (credit: Fox Searchlight)

 
HITCHCOCK (PG-13)

Partly based on Stephen Rebello’s “Alfred Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho,” director Sasha Gervasi wanted to make sure the story gave credit and importance to Hitchcock’s wife and collaborator, Alma. Anyone who has studied the cinematic genius of Hitchcock knows Alma Reville Hitchcock had an instinct for the right thing, experience to help him technically and a desire to stay out of the limelight.

Anthony Hopkins does a credible job as Hitchcock, less cruel but just as obsessed as Toby Jones in the recent HBO movie about the making of The Birds. Helen Mirren plays it strong and smart as Alma, but those of us who have studied that real woman will have trouble buying into her romance. Scarlett Johansson as smoothly credible as Janet Leigh, as is the rest of the cast.

I love back stories about show business, and this is one to see.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

 
CHASING ICE (NOT RATED)

This documentary sets out to illuminate the story of our planet’s changing glaciers. Scientist James Balog is the Director of the Extreme Ice Survey. In 2005, he takes a team to various locations to capture images of the ice. By capturing these images, he hopes to tell everyone the story of our changing climate.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: Argo, The Sessions, Lincoln, A Late Quartet, Silver Linings Playbook, Anna Karenina.

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, The Candidates, Brave.

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Jennifer Lawrence & Bradley Cooper (credit: The Weinstein Company)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews ‘Silver Lining Playbook’ starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence and Robert De Niro. Also, Jan reviews the period piece ‘Anna Karenina’ with Keira Knightley, Jude Law and Emily Watson.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK (R)

Pat (Bradley Cooper) has lost everything: his job, his home, his wife – also his mental balance. After spending 8 months in a state institution, he moves back in with his parents. He’s determined to rebuild his life, though his own battles keep getting in the way.

This is a quirky, adult romantic comedy drama that goes beyond cliché. David O. Russell (3 Kings, The Fighter) opens up the story of love, pain, mental illness, recovery and reconciliation. Bradley Cooper is excellent, as he was in this year’s earlier film The Word. Jennifer Lawrence is like a volcano ready to erupt, Robert DeNiro delight as a troubled father. Unfortunately, the film lets go of Cooper’s illness in a way that feels off, but the rest of the movie is well worth seeing.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

Keira Knightley in ‘Anna Karenina’ (credit: Focus Features)

 
ANNA KARENINA (R)

All the world’s a stage… Director Joe Wright (Pride and Prejudice, Atonement) took Shakespeare’s words and made them a theme for his latest film. This time the Tolstoy classic is based in a theatre that keeps changing sets. The film looks absolutely gorgeous; the problem here is casting and characterizations. As we follow Anna and her forbidden love affair, pre-Revolutionary Russia is brought alive in its entire splendor.

But, we never feel sorrow for Anna since her husband is actually a nice guy and the apparently notorious Count Vronsky is too young and not very sensual.

Keira Knightley, Jude Law do the best they can, a miscast Aaron Taylor Johnson tries, too. Look for Set Design and Costume Oscar nominations.

Two hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: The Sessions, Lincoln, Skyfall, Argo, A Late Quartet, & Cloud Atlas.

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, The Candidates, Your Sister’s Sister

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Daniel Craig as ‘James Bond’ in ‘Skyfall’ (credit: Columbia Pictures)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews the 23rd installment of the James Bond series “Skyfall” starring Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem and Dame Judi Dench. Jan also reviews Steven Spielberg’s epic, “Lincoln” starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn and Tommy Lee Jones.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
SKYFALL (PG-13)

This is the latest of the James Bond movies, with the perfectly cast Daniel Craig as 007.

PHOTOS: 50 Years of ‘Bond, James Bond’

But, this time Bond’s loyalty to M is tested, especially as she ordered his possible death outside of Istanbul. M (Judi Dench) is a major character in this movie as her past comes back to haunt her in the form of a bizarre, vicious former agent (Javier Bardem.)

There’s a seriousness and lack of fun, from hard drives and tech wizards to a Bond who looks very sober and unhappy most of the time. The good news is the cinematography, a great song by Adele and always watch-able actors from Dench to the underutilized Bardem to Ralph Fiennes and Craig. Just a little more light into the darkness of villains and international crime next time.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

Steven Spielberg’s “Lincoln” (credit: DreamWorks)

 
LINCOLN (PG-13)

Director Steven Spielberg took one episode in the life of Lincoln and drew us into the story and the man: it was Lincoln getting Congress to vote yes on the 13th Amendment, ending slavery while simultaneously ending the Civil War. At the same time, he was dealing with a proposal for a negotiated peace from the South.

Written by Tony Kurshner, based on the book Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin, the film is anchored by a remarkable, believable performance by Daniel Day Lewis. Instead of a caricature, we meet a man filled with backwoods humor, sorrow and all the complications of humanity. He’s given great support by a fine cast, including Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: The Sessions, Cloud Atlas, Argo & A Late Quartet.

Home Viewing/DVD: Your Sister’s Sister

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

‘A Late Quartet’ (credit: Entertainment One/RKO Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews ” A Late Quartet,” starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, Catherine Keener, Jeremy Northam and Christopher Walken. The second movie Jan reviews is the drama, “The Other Son” with Jules Sitruk, Emmanuelle Devos and Pascal Elbé.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

From John Garfield in Humoresque to Hugh Grant as Chopin in Impromptu, some actors can convince us they are classical musicians. In this smart film, we meet members of a world-renowned string quartet. They are struggling to stay together through illness, ego and lust.

Philip Seymour Hoffman, Christopher Walken, Catherine Keener and Mark Ivanir play the talented foursome. Directed with sophistication and emotion by Yaron Zilberman, we root for the four to stay together but sex and life complicate their lives. Terrific classical music, details about how it is played, fine acting, New York City in the Winter providing beautiful cinematography and the quartet’s playing of Opus 131 all make the movie work.

Walken and Hoffman both in unusually gentle form, but everyone is excellent as we find out the drama behind the music.

3 hats.

—————————————————-
THE OTHER SON (PG-13)

This is a touching, switched at birth story with an unusual twist. Filmed in Israel and the West Bank, two young men discover they were switched at birth. Complicating this surprising discovery, one man is Israeli and the other Palestinian. The repercussions for themselves and their families are complex and turn everyone’s values upside down.

Based on a true story, the movie doesn’t go for cheap theatrics but stays compelling as we hope that humanity overcomes everything else. In French, English, Arabic and Hebrew, directed by Lorraine Levy.

3 hats.

—————————————————-
See Right Now: The Sessions, Argo & Cloud Atlas

Home Viewing/DVD: The Campaign, Magic Mike, Moonrise Kingdom, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and Bernie

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Tom Hanks & Halle Berry in ‘Cloud Atlas’ (credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “The Sessions,” starring John Hawkes and Helen Hunt, about a man in an iron lung who will stop at nothing to lose his virginity. The second movie Jan reviews is the Tom Hanks & Halle Berry epic, “Cloud Atlas.”

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
CLOUD ATLAS (R)

Fasten your seatbelts for an epic film that travels over 500 years. Based on the novel by David Mitchell, this wild ride unfolds in multiple timelines. There’s drama, mystery, high action and romance. What makes this all work are the actors who play many roles, especially Tom Hanks. He’s given support by Halle Barry and Hugh Grant.

This film is a study in the craft of acting, as well as excellent movie makeup. The same filmmakers gave us the Matrix trilogy, so the effects and visuals are imaginative. The movie is worth seeing, especially on the big screen where it belongs. There should be an Oscar for the makeup and at least some nominations for set design and Tom Hanks.

Three hats.

—————————————————-

Helen Hunt & John Hawkes in ‘The Sessions’ (credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures)

 
THE SESSIONS (R)

So many movies exploit sexuality or make it offensive, funny or even gross. Here is a film that makes it important to the human condition as well as touching and unforgettable.

Based on the surprisingly optimistic writing of Bay Area journalist and poet Mark O’Brien, we meet a man who has lived most of his life in an iron lung. At age 38 he is determined to experience sexuality. With the help of a sex therapist (Helen Hunt) and a priest (William H. Macy), O’Brien (John Hawkes) sets out to make this dream a reality. Hawkes is loveable and witty as O’Brien, Macy as usual excellent as he plays comedy for truth. But, it is Hunt who provides us with the dignity and honesty in this true story. Everyone involved in this movie, including writer/director Ben Lewin, deserves Oscar gold.

Four hats.

—————————————————-

 
See Right Now: Argo & Arbitrage

Home Viewing/DVD: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Bernie, Moonrise Kingdom, & Rock of Ages

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Solomon Glave and Shannon Beer in WUTHERING HEIGHTS (credit: Agatha Nitecka/Oscilloscope Laboratories)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Wuthering Heights,” starring James Howson and Kaya Scodelario, about a broke boy of mysterious background who is rescued by an affluent family and develops an intimate relationship with his foster sister…

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
WUTHERING HEIGHTS (R)

Many of us are aware of William Wyler’s classic film starring Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon. Or, we have at least read – or at the very least heard of – the novel by Emily Bronte: Heathcliff and Cathy, friends since childhood, but perhaps doomed by their circumstances and their love.

Now, Andrea Arnold has remade the often told tale, but has stripped it of romanticism and lushness, turning it raw and often difficult to watch. Solomon Glave is the young, feisty Heathcliff, taken into a complicated home to become a servant. This is the first black Heathcliff we’ve seen, and he is a strong presence when he is allowed to be. Shannon Beer plays an earthy young Cathy. Director Arnold uses jump cuts, odd angles, handheld cameras, imagining this story of the 1880′s as cruel and probably realistic. There are graphic animal killings and torment. By going for such realism, all the magic and passion is lost. 1/2 hat.

—————————————————-

 
See Right Now: Argo, Arbitrage, Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel

Home Viewing/DVD: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Rock of Ages, Moonrise Kingdom

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
 

Ben Affleck in “Argo” (credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Ben Affleck’s “Argo,” also starring Alan Arkin, Bryan Cranston, John Goodman, Rory Cochrane and Christopher Denham.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

Movies are at their best with a strong narrative, story and characters to invest in and take us on that cinematic ride worth our time and money. Argo does just that: a powerful dramatic thriller, with comic relief played for the truth of the story itself.

It chronicles the life-and-death, covert operation to rescue six Americans during the Iranian Hostage Crises of late 1979. When the American Embassy is stormed, we see many American hostages taken, but six manage to find their way to the Canadian Ambassador. Back in America, a CIA ‘ex-filtration’ specialist comes up with an outrageous plan to get them out.

Ben Affleck directs and stars, keeping the action and even the humor well paced and completely engrossing. He never upstages or grandstands, nor does Bryan Cranston, Alan Arkin, John Goodman or any of the other actors and actresses.

Even the Hollywood segments keep it real. Be sure to stay during the final credits. Four hats.

—————————————————-
Two good documentaries playing right now:

The Other Dream Team, about the 1992 Lithuanian Men’s Basketball team, and “Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has To Travel.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Joaquin Phoenix in a scene from “The Master” (credit: The Weinstein Company)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “The Master” starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, Joaquin Phoenix & Amy Adams. She also reviews “Trouble With the Curve” also with Amy Adams and Clint Eastwood.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
THE MASTER (R)

There’s been a lot of positive buzz about this film. Much of the excitement seems to be that one of our great actors, Philip Seymour Hoffman, plays the leader of a quasi religious cult called The Cause, based on Scientology. The Cause has a “process” leading subjects through past traumas, using a combination of hypnosis and tricks. He is The Master.

But, most of the film actually belongs to Joaquin Phoenix, an alcoholic, violent, lying wreck. Phoenix pays it with so much pain and agony and such a lack of humanity that it is almost hard to watch.

Amy Adams shows up as Hoffman’s latest wife – and voice of reason.

The acting is fine, but the lack of a cohesive script is the problem. Paul Thomas Anderson (Boogie Nights, Magnolia) has made a movie about ego meets regret, and there are moments of insight into religious cults. But, without a compelling script it gets very tiresome. Two hats.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Amy Adams & Clint Eastwood (credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

 
TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE (R)

Gus has been one of the best scouts in baseball for decades. Though age is starting to catch up with him, he refuses to be benched.

But, this craggy, tough guy may not have a choice about the final innings of his career.

There is some fine acting, notably Clint Eastwood playing Gus’ arc of sadness, frustration and fear. His daughter, played by Amy Adams (also in The Master), joins him on his latest scouting trip, jeopardizing her own legal career to save his baseball career. Father and daughter are forced to spend time together, and new discoveries about their relationship are made with humor and truth. Justin Timberlake, John Goodman, other fine actors show up, but the movie belongs to a terrific Eastwood.

The film was actually not directed by Eastwood, but some fine storytelling is given us by his longtime producing partner Robert Lorenz. Touching and entertaining. 3 hats.

—————————————————-

 
See Right Now: The Words, Arbitrage.

Home Viewing/DVD: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Hysteria, Salvation Blvd.

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Richard Gear in a scene from “Arbitrage” (credit: Roadside Attractions)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews “Arbitrage” starring Richard Gere, Susan Sarandon & Tim Roth. She also reviews the documentary “Girl Model.”

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
ARBITRAGE (R)

It’s a safe bet to say that most everyone knows the story of Bernie Madoff. Arbitrage (R), is an interesting suspense story, not quite as interesting or compelling as Madoff’s, but tells the tale of a man whose life and heart are both ruined by money.

Richard Gere turns in a strong performance as a hedge fund mogul on the eve of his 60th birthday. He seems to have everything that makes up the American Dream. But, behind his gilded walls, he is over his head and hides his fraud – and worse.

Susan Sarandon plays his wife, and Tim Roth is the NYPD detective who starts to have his suspicions about what Gere’s up to. We find ourselves wondering if Gere’s character will make it out alive.

3 hats.

—————————————————-

GIRL MODEL (NR)

Documentaries can be disturbing, intelligent and show us a completely different world than our own. Girl Model (not yet rated) tells us the story of very young girls living in Siberia. As they line up hoping to be chosen, we understand they are looking for jobs in the international modeling world. We follow one 13 year old named Nadya who seems to be what the Japanese modeling market wants, at least according to the recruiters – who seem to have no trouble exploiting these girls.

Nadya goes to Japan, in part with hopes to support her family through her modeling work, and we see what a truly terrible system exists – feeding on young girls’ hopes and dreams. It’s wrong, and anything but picture perfect, but a strong documentary by David Redmon and Ashley Sabin.

—————————————————-

 
See Right Now: Farewell, My Queen; The Campaign; The Words; Hope Springs; The Bourne Legacy; Robot and Frank

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie; The Hunger Games.

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Bradley Cooper & Zoe Saldana (credit: CBS Films)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews the drama, “The Words” starring Bradley Cooper, Zoe Saldana Jeremy Irons, Ben Barnes, Dennis Quaid and Olivia Wilde.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

This multi-layered drama is worthwhile and surprising, as long as one doesn’t read every detail in reviews. It centers on a writer trying to achieve success. He is pressured both internally and externally to get the Great American Novel written, but it eludes him.

Suddenly, ambition overcomes morality and he delves into the past to become a winner in the present.

The film is smart and interesting, with three stories that keep us guessing if we don’t know all the answers.

This is the strongest performance by Bradley Cooper, and Jeremy Irons is, as always, charismatic and a scene stealer.

The movie asks the audience to pay attention and figure out what’s going on. Not too long, engrossing, and beautifully shot. 3 hats.

—————————————————-

See Right Now: The Campaign, Bill W., Hope Springs, Farewell My Queen, The Odd Life of Timothy Green, Little White Lies

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie & Atonement

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Marion Cotillard in ‘Little White Lies’ (credit: MPI Media Group)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Little White Lies, starring François Cluzet, Marion Cotillard and Benoît Magimel. Plus the comedy For A Good Time Call… starring Ari Graynor, Lauren Anne Miller and Justin Long.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
LITTLE WHITE LIES (NOT RATED)

The director of this French film, Guillaume Canet, says he was influenced by Lawrence Kasdan’s The Big Chill. And, indeed, it has much in common with that American film.

Little While Lies is an ensemble film – the story of a group of friends brought together after one, played by Jean Dujardin from last year’s The Artist, ends up clinging to life in a hospital.

While he is recovering, the remainder of the group, eight pals, stays at a vacation home. There begins the little white lies as unwanted affection. womanizing and heartbreak occur.

Marion Cotillard (La Vie en Rose, Midnight in Paris) plays the free spirit of the group, and the film comes to life whenever she is in the scene. American pop music is used, from Janis Joplin to Credence Clearwater. The problem with the film is that at 2 and half hours it is too long. But, good characters and fine acting. In French with English subtitles.

2 hats.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Ari Graynor, Justin Long & Lauren Anne Miller (credit: Focus Features)

 
FOR A GOOD TIME CALL… (R)

Ever notice that, sometimes, a comedy comes along that is vulgar and even disgusting, but afterward you notice you kind of had a good time? This is far from the gentle comedy of Bernie or Hope Springs, clever satire like The Campaign or even a silly chase like Hit and Run. This movie is wild and outrageous.

Two young women end up sharing an apartment – they were brought together by their mutual gay friend, played by Justin Long. These women are opposites: Lauren Ann Miller, who also co-wrote the screenplay, is reserved. Ari Graynor is the scene-stealer, totally uninhibited and making the film swing.

The gals launch a phone sex business, and as you can imagine, the language in the film is almost non-stop sexually graphic. If you have problems with total vulgarity, this is not the movie for you. The good news is that it is not too long, and Ari Graynor helps us connect and sometimes laugh.

2 hats.

—————————————————-

 
See Right Now: The Odd Life of Timothy Green, The Bourne Legacy, The Campaign, Hit and Run, Robot and Frank, Hope Springs, Moonlight Kingdom, Sparkle, Beasts of the Southern Wild

Home Viewing/DVD: Darling Companion, Bernie, The Hunger Games

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

(L-R) Dax Shepard & Kristen Bell (credit: Open Road Films)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Hit & Run, starring Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell, about an eccentric, former getaway driver in witness protection, who endangers his safety while trying to get his girlfriend to Los Angeles.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
HIT & RUN (R)

A former getaway driver jeopardizes his involvement in a witness protection program in order to drive his girlfriend to Los Angeles. While on the road, he finds himself chased by the Feds as well as his former gang members.

Dax Shepard’s credits on the movie including starring in it, co-directing and writing the film. The cast is all-around good: Kristen Bell, Kristin Chenoweth, Bradley Cooper (with one weird haircut) and Tom Arnold, who has never been this funny.

It’s an adult-themed chase comedy that only runs 100 minutes, so it doesn’t drag on. Not as funny as The Campaign or as warm as Hope Springs, but OK movie escapism.

2 hats.

—————————————————-

 
HERMANO (R)

Last year Venezuela submitted this powerful soccer drama as the country’s submission to the Academy Awards. Two boys are raised together as brothers. Both struggle to become professional soccer players. One is a brilliant player, the other a natural leader. They live in a slum, and when a headhunter comes to check them out, tragedy meets opportunity.

Marcel Rasquin directs two gifted young actors as the complicated brothers: Fernando Moreno and Eliu Armas. The movie gets violent, but also has moments of beauty and excitement, especially the soccer sequences. In Spanish with English subtitles.

2 hats.

—————————————————-

 
See Right Now: Sparkle, The Odd Life of Timothy Green, Hope Springs, Bill W., The Campaign, The Bourne Legacy

Home Viewing/DVD: Bernie

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

(L-R) Jordin Sparks & Whitney Houston (credit: TriStar Pictures/Sony)

 
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Reporter, Jan Wahl reviews ‘Sparkle’ staring “Idol” winner, Jordin Sparks and the late Whitney Houston. Jan also reviews Walt Disney Pictures, “The Odd Life of Timothy Green” with Jennifer Garner.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

 
SPARKLE (PG-13)

It’s Detroit 1968. Motown is sweeping the nation; girl groups are popular and glamorous. Over their traditionalist mother’s objections, three talented sisters begin to take the music scene by storm.

Sparkle is their songwriter, the older sister is the breakout performer. Jordin Sparks and a charismatic Carmen Ejogo play those roles, with Whitney Houston in her last role, as mother repenting for her wild youth and trying to keep a tight leash on her girls.

Of course, an ambitious manager comes along, as does a very abusive husband – turning triumph into tragedy. Not enough of the joy and fun of show biz, but some good drama and fashion, even though in the early 70′s you couldn’t get away with some of those dresses on TV. Still, showbiz, ambition plus some good music and a chance to have Whitney Houston touch our hearts again.

2-and-a-half hats.

—————————————————-

(L-R) Jennifer Garner, CJ Adams & Joel Edgerton (credit: Walt Disney Pictures)

 
THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN (PG)

A couple desperately wants to have a child, prompting the two of them to bury a box in their backyard containing all their wishes for a child of their own. In a mysterious way, a young boy comes to them – sweet, charismatic, kind and extremely unusual.

Peter Hedges wrote and directed this well-intentioned movie, based on a story by Ahmet Zappa. Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton and CJ Adams star, along with some fine characters actors.

It has lovely, witty moments, made more effective if you go with the magic. Once it gets going, there is a feeling of predictability, even for a fantasy. Still, the sweetness of spirit goes a long way, and entire families can enjoy it.

2-and-a-half hats.

—————————————————-

 
See Right Now: Hope Springs, The Campaign, Moonrise Kingdom

Home Viewing/DVD: The Hunger Games

You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl’s movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Scene from ‘The Campaign’ (Warner Bros. Pictures)

The Campaign (R)

(KCBS) – If you think real life political campaigns get ugly, they’re actually warm and kind compared to the campaign in the outrageous comedy, “The Campaign.”

In order to gain influence over their North Carolina district, CEOs put up a rival candidate in order to oust a longtime Congressman.

Will Ferrell is the sleazy and dimwitted Congressman Cam Brady; Zach Galifianakis is his naive opponent, Marty Huggins. As the campaign heats up, we experience moments of lunacy and retaliation. At least half of the movie is funny, as in laugh out loud bad taste funny, but there are also moments of smart, wild political satire.

Director Jay Roach has experience with political movies as well as high comedy flicks like Austin Powers, and a well rounded cast helps to buoy this wacky comedy in search of the truth.

Not for kids. Two and a half hats.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

Jeremy Renner in a scene from ‘The Bourne Legacy’ (credit: Universal Pictures)

The Bourne Legacy (PG-13)

The fourth in the “Bourne” series, expands the universe of the Robert Ludlum novels. This time out we center on a new hero whose stakes have been triggered by the previous movies. A good cast includes Jeremy Renner, Scott Glenn, Edward Norton and Rachael Weisz; unfortunately, there is a real problem with the script. It is muddled, overly complicated and, unless you just finished five minutes ago watching the other films, hard to follow.

It’s not until the second half that we are pulled into what is going on, though the TV ads help explain some of it. Some good action sequences, but not as successful as the other films. Yes, it’s a highly popular espionage franchise, and I’ll be looking forward to a better Bourne 5.

2 hats.

See now: hope Springs, Moonrise Kingdom.

Home viewing: Bel Ami, Darling Companion, The Lorax.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)