No Man's Land! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Territorial rights provide a welcome backdrop in Frozen River, a terrific thriller from Sony Pictures Classics and Mongrel Media now carving a nice niche at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking). Danger looms large in this tale of a down on her luck mother doing whatever she can to tend to her two young boys.

Life is tough for Ray Eddy. Bad news multiplies for this hard-working mom who has to come to terms with a husband whose taken off. Stories like this are a dime a dozen but the squeeze is put on this working class woman big time. Luck just hasn't gone her way which parallels perfectly the trials and tribulations of another sad story.

Aboriginal people have had to struggle for everything they get. Out on the Mohawk reserve lives Lila, a plump if not pleasing native woman who gets by through various forms of subterfuge. Quick fixes are what keeps some people on the skids above water and Lila is involved in the smuggling trade.

Petty crimes here petty crimes there sees these two moms meet under rather bizarre circumstances. Those in need of quick cash often turn to illicit means and both Lila and Ray wind up way over their heads when they from a tag team duo of smugglers.

Intense performances spark this highly suspenseful tale. Mothers everywhere will be able to relate to the plight of poor Ray, brilliantly brought to the screen by Melissa Leo (21 Grams) in an Oscar quality performance. High praise also must go to Misty Upham whose work as Lila is equally riveting.

First time director/writer Courtney Hunt makes a stunning debut in this 97 minute drama that hones in on the poverty and desperation of those on the reserve and those white people looking to get by, not just get ahead.

Real drama bursts forth here and thanks to a level pacing you just don't know whether the pair will get caught or not. Here you can cut the tension with a knife. Family life also gets nicely depicted with Charlie McDermott (The Village) pulling off a very emotional role as a confused fifteen year old with young James Reilly cute as a button as the younger boy.

Hot topic issues such as poverty and smuggling are often common food for fodder. Themes like these have been told before. Only here thanks to real intense performances these characters should leave a lasting impression on everyone.

Bravado Bard! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Better brush up on your Shakespeare. Old Willy gets royally skewered in Hamlet 2, a hilarious bit of nonsense from director/writer Andrew Fleming (Dick) and Alliance Films now jolting audiences at the Fifth Avenue Cinemas.

Theatre fans are bound to lap up this highly entertaining bit of fluff that relates to the sorry plight of one Dana Marschz. Everyone has a dream but like so many others poor Dana's goal has been sort of sidetracked. Efforts at making it in the acting world did not exactly pan out for this budding thespian so he's now relegated to teaching drama at a high school. Now the fun begins.

Even as a teacher Dana is a screw-up. Though a couple students follow his lead and have a desire to perform a bunch of new entrants would rather joke around in class than learn the basics. Now we've all seen this movie before: an idealistic teacher takes a bunch of rag tag kids and gets them to learn. Only here, thanks to the brilliant timing of top British comedian Steve Coogan (24 Hour Party People) the whole situation gets zanier by the minute.

Creative processes can bring out the best in people. Once Dana locks onto an idea for a play that runs counter to the prurient religious flavour of the community all bets are off and the new school production becomes a cause célèbre for the artsy crowd and civil libertarians just ready to lock horns. Onlookers won't be disappointed as the laughs fly off the screen in this vibrant 90 minute journey that pokes fun at classic literature, stuffy moralists and a Jesus just born to rock.

Coogan is terrific as the ultimate cheerleader for a cause whose blinded by that whole stardom thing. Catherine Keener (The 40 Year Old Virgin) and David Arquette (Scream) provide more fodder for Dana as two live in pals with Elizabeth Shue (Leaving Las Vegas) on hand to poke fun at her image in more hilarity.

All the youths in that drama class are class acts themselves and provide loads of gusto to this rollicking story that lets Coogan loose and his charismatic screen presence will win you over - in a flash.

Spanish Fly! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Fun in the sun reaches unprecedented heights in Vicky Cristina Barcelona, a sexy romp from Alliance Films now turning folks on at Tinseltown (On Pender, free parking), The Park Theatre, the Empire Esplanade 6, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C. Playboy (?) of the western world Woody Allen turns his sights again to romance and sins of the flesh in this would-be bit of erotic fun that truly is all tease, scant skin.

People on holidays do strange things. Sunny Spain is the haunt of those decadent Americans just waiting to let loose. Life long chums Vicky and Cristina go the romantic Mediterranean for a little rest and relaxation. Back home things in New York have become just a touch stale for the pair who seem to be ready for one last fling before Vicky heads down the altar.

Of the two Vicky is by far the more conservative while Cristina seems to be ready, willing and able on a moments notice. While staying at the home of the upscale Nashes the pair enjoys the night life like most tourists. Now anyone who has ever been to Europe knows locals can be a touch "liberal" in their approach to life. Man of the world artist Juan Antonio takes a fancy to the ladies and before you know it the pair becomes fast friends.

Sex is definitely on Antonio's mind and the girls become part of a bit of summertime lust. As if that wasn't enough to increase heartbeats a third woman enters into the cozy arrangement - Antonio's former flame Maria Elena. Caution is thrown to the wind as the threesome gets even more convoluted in this bed hopping tale that is really all tease little sin.

Woody Allen here succeeds in creating a real erotic atmosphere minus the sex. Instead there is some great character development as the ins and outs of relationships are explored with smashing results. Latin hunk Oscar winning Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) has more than his hands full juggling what looks like a harem of eligible women with varying degrees of success. Sleaze sells and all his fast talk may appeal to some while turning off others.

All that macho affection must be "endured" by Scarlett Johansson (Match Point) and Rebecca Hall (The Prestige) who are full value for playing friends caught up in an emotional tug of war over a man. Lost in the shuffle is husband to be Dough, played sheepishly (?) by Chris Messina (Rounders).

Completing a very good cast is Penelope Cruz (Blow) as a wacky intruder alongside Patricia Clarkson (Good Night, And Good Luck) and Kevin Dunn (Godzilla) as hosts with the most.

Gorgeous shots of that Spanish enclave makes up for a lack of flesh with Vicky Cristina Barcelona concentrating instead on the do I don't I engage in some promiscuous activities without the lasting scars. Woody Allen handles the dilemmas many of the characters face with considerable skill which may make the movie a reality check for some who simply fantasize about such lustful desires, let alone act them out.

Double Vision! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Pay attention or you may just miss some jolts in Mirrors, a perky thriller from 20th Century Fox now sending shivers down the spines of voyeurs at Vancouver's Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking), Colossus, Empire Studio 12 and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C.

By now filmgoers know all too well about the countless remakes of foreign films. Horror films have long found their inspiration from overseas treats, mainly by way of Japan. Korea takes centre stage as Mirrors is largely based on a Korean treatment, now beefed up for North American audiences through the considerable talents of French director/writer Alexandra Aja (The Hills Have Eyes). Lucky for us this thriller compares admirably with the first Ring encounter and is vastly superior to sequels or mild-mannered foreign escapades.

Action in Mirrors centres on a mysterious building once known as The Mayflower. Long forgotten this dilapidated eyesore rests sorrowfully on 6th Avenue in New York. Former New York detective Ben Carson gets banished to the sidelines after some internal problems and ends up doing night duty work at the Mayflower, a once shining light New York landmark.

Rough times seem to follow our good man around. Out of a well-paid job and relegated to night security work for the barren Mayflower property poor Ben is also at odds with his lovely wife Amy. Caught in the middle of this marital tug of war are two delightful young kids, Michael and Daisy.

New on the job workers often encounter their ups and downs. For Ben things get a bit more uncertain as unforeseen events occur on the job. Strange phenomena involving mirrors begin to take over Ben's life. Nothing is normal as danger lurks around every bend.

Why Mirrors works so well relates to the eerie suspense that follows the lead characters. Television's Kiefer Sutherland (The Sentinel) is well suited to play the former detective now in the fight of his life battling unpredictable and diabolical evil. Home front support from the likes of lovely Paula Patton (Swing Vote) as the off duty wife further intensifies the mood of danger as does the dilemma faced by the kids, effectively projected by newcomers Erica Gluck and Cameron Boyce.

Completing this cast is Amy Smart (Road Trip) as a loving sister. Enough scares and smart terror jolts makes Mirrors a superior thriller that will leave people guessing - the trademark of any good whodunit.

High Flyer! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

True stories can make the best movies. Proof of this comes with Man on Wire, an amazing tale from Mongrel Media now wowing filmgoers at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking) and the Fifth Avenue Cinemas.

Not to be missed, this standout documentary recounts the real life of Philippe Petit. Back in the day our French wonder took a liking to walking on suspended wires. Through black and white home movies we see this charismatic Frenchman learn his trade. Years later the boy turned teen would become a young man and ultimately take the world by storm.

Had you lived in New York in the mid 1970s you may have witnessed this man's unbridled success. With a crack crew of make-shift helpers Philippe scaled the towers of the World Trade Center in New York and "rigged" a wire between the two magnificent spans.

Then, like a real life spider man or superhero he miraculously traverses the wire hundreds of feet above the ground. Now if that wasn't enough to leave you shaken and stirred imagine the impact of seeing this dynamo actually do tricks, yes tricks, way up above, just below the clouds. You will be amazed reliving the moment as this human fly delights the crowds below.

Director James Marsh allows us into this unique man's world and scores terrific interviews with both Petit and members of his team. Brought to the screen with the aid of the BBC and Discovery Films folks will marvel at just what an achievement Petit accomplished. Cocky and arrogant but with a zestful youth-driven charm people to this day won't be able to not get caught up in the momentous life of this acrobatic eighth wonder of the world whose energy back then and to this day apparently knows no bounds.

Thrill seekers thinking catching the big wave or falling from a plane or bungee jumping is the ultimate high will encounter a whole new perspective on testing your limits after seeing Man on Wire, a truly amazing recounting of a one of a kind man's life.

Rigged! 
 

By ALAN SAMUEL 

Consider 2008 to be the year of elections. Political junkees will surely covet the November action in the U.S. while local Vancouverites will vie for a new mayor in that same month. Versatile Kevin Costner (Mr. Brooks) joins the fray early with Swing Vote, a smart look at getting elected from Touchstone Pictures now asking for your vote of approval at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking), Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C.

You have to give Costner lots of credit here. His own money, rumored to be around 20 million or so, went into financing this movie. Cast as the downbeat good for nothing Ernest Bud Johnson this slacker gets upstaged constantly by his smart as a whip daughter, Molly. We all know it's tough to raise a child in a single family home only this slob takes the cake. Unlike his daughter Bud has no appetite to take part in anything meaningful, preferring to pursue a dead end job while drinking himself silly.

Against this home life misery Bud somehow makes it to prime time as apparently his messed up ballot may in fact hold the key to the presidency of the United States. Sound far fetched? Well, in the wake of the missing chads in Florida just about anything is possible in the skullduggery of politics, North American style.

Director/writer Joshua Michael Stern sure does have a keen eye for the electoral process and nails the political machines down pat. Naturally, there are two competitors for the presidency now vying for Bud's seal of approval. Off we go to the sticks in a hick town in New Mexico as the Johnson family is turned upside down.

Fans of politics will get a charge out of this movie thanks to the pitch perfect performances of all those insiders who try to influence poor old Bud. Costner is good but that drinking and boorish no care attitude does grow a bit on you. Much better and redeemable is the work of Madeline Carroll (The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause) who is terrific as a wise beyond her years twelve year old who can teach good old dad (and adults in general) a thing or two about life - or doing the right thing. Other child stars need to move over as this girl has the spirit and delivery to make quite the impact on audiences and critics alike.

Comedians Nathan Lane (The Producers) and Stanley Tucci (The Pelican Brief) are terrific as Art Crumb and Martin Fox, two aides to the suits vying to be president. Don't you just love those screen names that are fully appropriate to their actions here. Even Kelsey Grammer (X-Men: The Last Stand) and Dennis Hopper (Easy Rider) climb aboard the fun as those competing for the oval office with Paula Patton (Hitch) and George Lopez (Balls of Fury) sizzling as media types out to bag a good story.

Enjoy 100 minutes of political tomfoolery with a sentimental back story about a family in crisis mode that will have you rooting for one little girl, and not so much for a deadbeat dad.

Career Choice! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Going out into the world is but one of the focuses confronting a group of teens in American Teen, a savvy look at young people from Paramount Vantage now sparking interest at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking). Here a portrait of four distinctly different students holds your attention throughout this 95 minute journey.

Shot in documentary style, director Nanette Burstein (The Kid Stays in the Picture) pulls off a very realistic portrait of life in high school. Here the focus is on that dreaded senior year. Small town Indiana is where we meet the students at Warsaw High. Though set in Indiana this story could (and does) unfold at countless schools around North America and dare I say the world. Peer pressure is a big deal here as is parents rights which are magnified considerably in this largely white, upscale community.

Kids who are different stick out like a sore thumb in Warsaw. On view for us to judge are the typical jock, geek, socialite and rebel. Acted out by real people we truly get into the topsy-turvy life of each of these 17 year olds. Just who you want to root for is open for debate as we see the progress (or lack thereof) of each of these kids who are trying to find themselves in that fishbowl of grade twelve life.

People can change over time but American Teen showcases the ups and downs of these four pupils who have to contend with scores of personal issues. All that bickering and infighting among teens is well displayed as are the outside pressures that affect them.

"Regular" everyday students on view here are the type of people teens and their circle of friends will be able to relate to. Watch the ups and downs star Warsaw Tigers basketball sensation Colin Clemens endures in hopes of winning a scholarship to university. Backstabbers will be hard pressed to compete with the likes of resident vixen Megan Krizmanich, the ultimate social bee who likes winning at all costs. Scenes of her interacting with those snobbish friends and the routine catfights are classics. Non-conformists also come into play with both Hannah Bailey and Geoff Haase terrific as the respective bad girl and nerd band member both played to perfection.

The relationships each of these kids have with others, especially romantic, overtures are spot on and will leave audiences fully immersed in their turmoil. Even footage on the basketball courts come across as being real in a very genuine movie about a teenage maturing process that comes full circle.

Juiced! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Get set for some laughs. Vancouver-born Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg continue their golden penmanship with Pineapple Express. Fresh from the school of producer Judd Apatow (Superbad) this latest Sony Pictures will leave you hunched over from laughing at Scotiabank Theatre, Oakridge Centre Cinemas, Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C.

Ask any smart Hollywood insider (or filmgoer) what makes a good movie and at the top of any list comes writing. Movie-goers know that without a good story even the finest actor can't make a classic out of a stinker, no matter how hard they try. Pineapple Express is a considerable improvement in the usual summer comic fare since its script is hilarious and the performances are more than up to the task.

Something for everyone seems the order of the day in this flick. For starters, the premise of two bungling Clark County residents involved in the dope trade seems non-earth shattering. But the zany chemistry shown by Rogen as Dale Denton and James Franco as Saul Silver is downright contagious. Silver is the out to lunch drug supplier to Denton, whose day job is a process server. When a murder is witnessed it has dire consequences for the pair as they wind up in the middle of a dangerous power play between two maniacal drug lords. Throw in a corrupt cop or two, zany stunts and two very likeable leads and you have the seeds for a monster hit and good time at the movies.

Jokes fly off the screen in this smart story that Rogen and Goldberg have primed for both young and hip older audiences. Some truly gut-splitting gags between the main characters will have onlookers rolling in the aisles. And action fans won't be disappointed here as Seth seems primed to play the Green Hornet, one of his upcoming projects, if his prowess with weapons here is any indication.

Very strong support work from likeable Rosie Perez (White Men Can't Jump), Bill Hader (Superbad) and Gary Cole further enhance the likeability of this David Gordon Green vehicle which clocks in at a perfectly running 111 minutes. Seth Rogen (Knocked Up) again uses his mild manner approach to perfection here pulling off some zinger gags and outlandish statements sure to get roars of approval from those within earshot. James Franco (Spider-Man) should bowl people over as the wacky drug dealer whose performance here is so good it may get otherwise normal people to think long and hard about toking up.

No matter what your stand on the drug trade (which, incidentally is B.C.'s leading industry) verdicts on Pineapple Express seems like a no brainer: it's going to be a smash!

Wooden Danger! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Attempts to rekindle the spirit of films like The Blair Witch Project can be hit or miss affairs. Use of hand held cameras with jerky movements to create a sense of urgency have been tried in the past with intermittent success. Last year the scary Paramount thriller Cloverfield exceeded all expectations and became a monster hit. Out to snare youthful audiences looking for a few perfectly timed jolts is Baghead, the newest scary fare from Sony Pictures Classics now freaking folks out at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking).

Tandem writer/directors Jay and Mark Duplass sure have lots of energy. Baghead is already a critically acclaimed entry earning rave reviews at various film festivals around the globe. Budding filmmakers will get a kick out of the movies main theme: have a bunch of amateurs try to make a movie. Sure, we may have seen this story before but thanks to four very accomplished hot young actors Baghead has a certain scary voyeuristic appeal to it bound to click in with fans of genres like Blair Witch.

All four twenty something folks want here is to create a movie. Fame or fortune clearly is in the eyes of the group who make tracks to the great outdoors when a family cabin gets freed up. Big Bear California is where the quartet beds down but once in this secluded enclave danger seems to be only a stone's throw away.

Two boys and two girls can lead to friction galore especially when those romantic pangs kick in. Average guys will be able to relate to Chad, whose unkempt appearance stands in stark contrast with handsome Matt. Main squeeze Catherine uses her stunning good looks and acting chomps to drive the story forward while tomboyish Michelle seems more content to drink herself silly.

Over the course of a few hours this team begins to brainstorm ideas for a movie. Sooner, rather than later, reality begins to copy art as a series of dangerous moments occur. Just who is trying to scare who becomes the driving force in this 84 minute movie that takes a long time to set the parameters in motion before heading into the danger zone.

Earnest efforts to create great works on film are hard to quantify. Not enough scares and a rather less than eventful finale that comes across as a touch contrived make Baghead a rather uneven film that lacks real tension to scare folks off. That said, the film does do a good job creating four diverse characters that show traces of emotion when they tee off against one another.

Caped Crusader Soars! 
 

By ALAN SAMUEL 

Suspend belief for a second. Experience thrills like no other. Bound to be the blockbuster of the year with ease is The Dark Knight, a stellar spectacular from Warner Brothers now causing commotion at Scotiabank Theatre, Fifth Avenue Cinemas, Oakridge Cinemas, Esplanade 6, Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C. Efforts to reboot the Batman franchise began three years ago with the introduction of new man in the mask Christian Bale. Now director Christopher Nolan (Memento) has outdone himself with this latest movie that will surely go down in history as the best comic book adaptation ever.

Forget about all the gushing praise from some critics over this movie. I would go on the record as saying that this is the best action/adventure flick since the original Indiana Jones Raiders of the Lost Ark. Why so good? Thanks to a tremendous script and ace acting you are left with two and a half hours of sheer fun. Taut pacing sees the time here just fly off the shelf as a cast of superb actors takes us on a journey not to be forgotten.

One of the only films in recent times worth seeing twice to catch all that's going on our story here sees Batman going over the edge. Major trouble confronts the caped crusader and the city of Gotham with the arrival on the scene of a new criminal: The Joker. Fed up with feeding off of the low life criminals this mascara challenged madman links up with various gangs with one aim: destroy Batman.

Taken too early was the late Heath Ledger. Without question Ledger will get an Oscar nomination and odds are good he will bag the Best Actor statue for his golden performance here as a certifiable maniac ready to do Batman in. As if that wasn't enough on Batman's plate he must also contend with rising superstar district attourney Harvey Dent. Otherwise known as Bruce Wayne, this dashing crime fighter could have well met his match as Mr. Dent is smooth, slick and has more than a passing interest in the lovely Rachel Dawes.

So much goes on in The Dark Knight that it would be criminal to tell would-be audiences more. Suffice it to say that right from the opening moments this is a non-stop joy ride of fun with the best criminal degenerate since Hannibal Lector. Not gory in the least, Ledger turns in a phenomenal performance as the ultimate foe for Batman. Aided and abetted by stalwarts like butler Alfred Pennyworth and Lucius Fox The Dark Knight is a fitting continuation of the heroic exploits of DC Comic's number one crusader against corruption. Oscar winning Morgan Freeman (Seven) has more fun as the Bruce Wayne confidante and outdoes James Bond's Q here as the ever ready tech geak outfitting Batman with the latest tactical weaponry.

Total tongue in cheek fun awaits audiences. If possible, folks should catch this masterpiece on the IMAX screen since there are a good twenty minutes of bigger screen special effects guaranteed to pump up your heart beats. Secondary characters in this story are flawless with remarkable work from new cast member Aaron Eckhart (Erin Brockovich) alongside Maggie Gyllenhaal (Secretary) who is definitely a step up from former bat main squeeze Katie Holmes.

Superb chases, excellent character development, huge surprises and the creepiest villain in decades makes The Dark Knight must see entertainment of the first order. A warning: to avoid disappointment wait a few weeks till the long line-ups die down or get to the theatre early.

Yummy Mummy! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Adventure returns to the big screen with a renewed zest thanks to The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. Universal Studios goes for the hat trick and succeeds in this Rob Cohen (The Fast and the Furious) romp that's breathing new life in the storied franchise This time the Middle East is out and the Far East is in. Action shifts to the year 1946 when born adventurer Rick O'Connell seems content to live the good life with wife Evelyn. One wayward son named Alex, however, puts a dent in their bliss. You see young Alex shares certain traits with his likeable dad and during one archaeological expedition he digs up the remains of some ancient mummy.

Classic storytelling reveals that once upon a time a dreaded Chinese ruler known as Emperor Han had the world by a string. War was in this cad's blood and only a wicked witch stopped his plunderous plight. Left buried alive this man of magical powers somehow gets revived into the modern world of London 1946. Only the O'Connell clan has any experience in dealing with mummies so we're off to the races in this no holds barred return to way out action/adventure with the fate of the world left hanging in the balance. So the story goes.

Great special effects and deadpan humour spark this 112 minute extravaganza that borrows just a touch from the original Raiders of the Lost Ark classic. Canadian raised Brendan Fraser again wins you over as the aw shucks reluctant mummy hunter Rick O'Connell. Lovely Maria Bello (A History of Violence) enlivens this movie further as the appealing Mrs. O'Connell. Newcomer Luke Ford impresses as a young version of Rick with Chinese superstar Jet Li nasty and natty as the power mad ruler. Throw James Bond veteran actress Michelle Yeoh into the pot and you've cooked up a rip roaring adventure that features just the right tempo and pacing.

Scores of battles, wacky chases through British streets, humour and a taste of adventure in the snowy Himalayas make this explosive jaunt just a lot of fun. Fans of the first two mummies will enjoy this new addition despite the far fetch nature of the whole situation.

All in the Family! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Rude, crude and lewd about sums up Step Brothers, a riot of a movie from Columbia Pictures now unleashing large laughs at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking), The Esplanade 6, Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City locations around B.C.

Scripts are vital to any movie. Only the warped minds of Will Ferrell (Elf) and director Wayne McKay (Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy) could come up with this little gem. Why could we not have come up with this idea? Had we, we'd be rich. Simple and not too subtle this hilarious tale concerns two grown men who have yet to flee the family nest. Sound far-fetched as a premise? Hardly! With our economy now in tatters many "kids" are staying home out of financial concerns. Here these two old farts unleash classic situations kids and adults won't be able to stop themselves from laughing silly.

Stupid in the extreme, all the "problems" in our 95 minute "saga" relate to the carnal craving of two professionals on the make. Single medical practitioner Dr. Robert Doback falls hard and fast for Nancy Huff. Romantic bliss is short lived when both learn the other has a grown child living with them. Needless to say, when the two families "merge" and move in together it creates rampant opportunities for the two overgrown boys to bond. Well, not quite so fast.

Just like children Brennan Huff and Dale Doback fail to see it's worthwhile to try to work things out. Back to immature behaviour we go with Will Ferrell (Elf) and John C. Reilly (Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story) simply outstanding, yes outstanding, as these two good for nothing nut cases who somehow, over time you'll be able to sympathize with. Pity the poor parents trying to come to terms with these social misfits/outcasts.

Expect huge laughs in this guilty pleasure that's brought to the screen through the creative juices of comedy king Judd Apatow. Straight as an arrow parents Richard Jenkins (The Kingdom) and Mary Steenburgen (The Brave One) deserve joint medals for having to cope with these oversized buffoons. Straight faces won't be seen among onlookers as you just have to go with the flow as the jibes come at you fast and furious. Even the supporting cast here is fun and engaging with baby faced Adam Scott (Knocked Up) and Kathryn Hahn (Win a Date with Tad Hamilton) very funny in smaller though highly memorable characters.

Put your brains on hold. If you want to see stupid laughs with two of the best comedians in the business, Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly, going at it hot and heavy then Step Brothers time has come. Yes, there's combustible chemistry between Ferrell and Reilly which makes the whole experience work like a charm. And over time the film actually shows some maturity and growth giving it some moral fiber to go along with the sheer stupidity/insanity of the whole situation.

Sports Vancouver 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Are you looking for something different to do this upcoming holiday long weekend? Perhaps the best kept secret in Vancouver may appeal to you. Good sports of all ages can experience the best horse racing in Western Canada with B.C. Cup Day on August 4 beginning at 1:25. Considered to be the super bowl of equestrian prowess, crowds come out in droves to watch champions of the four-legged variety go nose to nose for bragging rights. 2008 marks the 14th B.C. Cup Day with undoubtedly the best line-up yet! Bring a pair of binoculars and your all set to watch the best four legged animals strut their stuff.

Unlike most major league sports around B.C. horse racing has one big edge on its competitors: it's free. Here you won't hear about obscene salaries paid to pampered players. Slap a saddle on a thoroughbred, adjust your goggles and jockeys and animals alike are raring to go. Cheer on your favourite horse and jockey as they race to the finish line at historic Hastings Racecourse. Who will win is anybody's guess. Odds are goods that spectators will have a good time no matter where they come from or what are their backgrounds.

Known for years as Exhibition Park, this east Vancouver fixture now boasts a new look with a new emphasis on family. Operators have been smart to make the sport more sociable and certainly more accommodating to the neighbourhood with free things like movie nights and daycare for local families. Above all else participants in this non-polluting industry that employs thousands in the agricultural sector throughout the province get to show their best on holiday Monday, B.C. Cup Day.

Only the best horses get to compete for purses that run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Scores of fans flock to the grandstands to participate in what has to be one of the most thrilling sports events of the year. And should you wish to place a wager there are now more areas to take a gander thanks to a major renovation geared towards making the whole horse racing experience more fan friendly to the masses.

Attend the races any day of the week and you will notice that the spectators are a carbon copy cross section of Metro Vancouver's population. All ethnicities are well represented with enthusiasts from the Chinese, Philippine and East Indian communities among the eagle-eyed handicappers waiting to score a victory at the wire. Prominent members of the East Indian community have long had a fruitful association with local horse racing including pioneers like Herb Doman and the Sengara Brothers and more recently K.K. Sangara and Bob Cheema whose horses win locally and across North America. Even the manager of the track, Raj Mutti, continues to impress fans with his youthful exuberance and attention to detail.

Those wishing to have a little pomp and ceremony fit for the entire family will likely have a good time at the track this holiday Monday. Set to perform are a mariachi band and other crowd-pleasing surprised liberally sprinkled throughout the festive day. Special activities for children like face painting, a bouncy castle, tattoos and free supervised pony rides are eagerly anticipated by returning fans. Additions to the entertainment line-up now also include four bands including local fan favourite March Hare. Newcomers will also have a chance to experiences thrills against a one of a kind natural backdrop: the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore mountains. This year the competition will be hotter than ever with over $425,000 prize money up for grabs. Those wanting to read up on horses can google Hastings Racecourse B.C. Cup Day entries to see which horses are entered and who are the early fan favourites. Or go to local sports pages to get other handicappers' take on the best bets.

More family fun continues at the track with free movies being shown on some Tuesdays with the classic Wizard of Oz being screened for free on Tuesday, August 5 at 9:00 pm. More films to follow in September with a huge screen inflated outdoors with seating in the covered grandstands.

For more information on horse racing's biggest day and/or to learn the basics on horse racing you can check out www.hastingsracecourse.com. Live horse racing happens on Fridays at 2:30 and Saturday, Sunday and holiday Mondays at 1:25

Gold Digger! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Social climbing gets taken to the next level in Priceless, a hilarious French comedy creating laugh attacks at the Park Theatre. Fret not over the subtitles as this little classic comes across as one of the best comedies in years.

Fantasy explodes on the screen in this delectable farce from the pen of director Pierre Salvadori. Action here centers on a luxury hotel on the French Riviera. Even though the setting is Cannes what happens could well occur at any place of luxury. At one particular hotel the very rich gather. Doing a bit of dallying are Jacques and Irene. Perhaps their "relationship" could best be described as one of convenience: Jacques is a wealthy "older" gentleman while Irene is a strikingly beautiful much younger woman.

Heads turn whenever this woman walks into a room. Lost in the shuffle is a rather obscure hotel worker called Jean. Against all odds Jean "accidentally" meets up with Irene in the most wacky way imaginable and before you know it these two become a pair.

Irene actually makes her living as a woman on the make. Imagine the surprise when this nerdy hotel clerk pretends to be a man of the world. Sparks fly hot and heavy until the truth is revealed. Tons of indiscretions follow with a potential day of reckoning in the offing. While Irene continues to play the field her latest conquest also gets the itch to make out and soon Jean too becomes a man of the world. What follows is a lust fest as these two unlikely lovers hold clandestine affairs with themselves and others in this romantic slugfest.

French siren Audrey Tautou (Amalie) takes your breath away as the full of mischief vixen with Gad Elmaleh perfect as the nerdy clerk who gets a makeover to die for. Odd man out Vernon Dobtcheff captures the essence of a rich playboy in this dynamic tale about lifestyles of the rich and famous that would make even Robin Leech blush.

Full value for insane humour Priceless is a raucous comedy guaranteed to leave you both shaken and stirred with delight.

In French, with English subtitles, likely moving to The Fifth Avenue after its engagement at Vancouver's Park Theatre concludes

Backlash! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Emotions run high in Brick Lane, an effective tale of immigration woes from Mongrel Media and Sony Pictures Classics now causing open debate at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking). Shot amidst the backdrop of the 9/11 tragedy this 102 minute journey looks at the rather tumultuous life of a family of newcomers trying to cope with every day life.

Often its hard for newcomers to adapt. One family with Pakistani origins does its best to blend in with British society. Mail order brides are common practice in some parts of the world as are the more familiar arranged marriage. As a youngster Nazneed is "lined up" with a man now living in Britain.

Naivety sets in at an early age for this peasant girl. Sent to Britain at 17 we learn that she's been living in England for the past 16 years, albeit not the happiest of times. Married to the "cultured" Chanu Ahmed you can sense the disconnect from the get go. Two young daughters further complicate life on the home front. News of the terrorist attacks further heightens the tensions in this family as members of the Muslim faith become singled out as terrorists or sympathizers to the cause, as it were.

More problems develop as the wife/husband relationship undergoes further strain as the wife becomes "friendly" with Karim, a rather charismatic lad with an entrepreneurial spirit.

Smart and topical Brick Lane offers up good performances and is a pretty good take on the state of affairs between minorities and the general population during times of restless unease. Very effective as the couple are Tananishtha Chatterjee and Satish Kaushik whose relationship can best be described as caustic. Old values from the homeland with a decided religious bent collide with more modern outlooks in rather insightful look at struggle from director Sarah Gavron.

Also to be singled out for strong acting are first time actress Naeema Begum who does a great job as a teen on edge and Christopher Simpson who plays the idealist Karim, a man on a mission and not above doing a bit of dallying on the side.

Those looking for a tale of family conflict set amongst the immigrant class may find Brick Lane a sobering take at blending in.

Hero or Zero? 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Bound to create a stir among the comic strip crowd is newest superhero Hancock. Totally unconventional, this wicked sensation from Columbia Pictures is now causing a ruckus at Oakridge Cinemas, Empire Studios, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C.

Like it or not put Will Smith in a movie and odds are good it will be a smash. Likeable in the extreme, some skeptics are wondering whether Mr. Smith's newest outing will prove to be a flop like Wild Wild West or a smash like Men In Black. Thanks to a smart script and that nonchalant devil may care attitude consider Hancock to be a treat though somewhat of a different perspective.

Unlike most heroes our Hancock is not the most pleasant of guys. Alcohol rubs this dude the wrong way which grates on the citizenry of Los Angeles. Long the scourge of law enforcement our mild-mannered foul-mouthed skid-row dweller sure knows how to create a fuss even when his intentions are good.

Thanks to a chance encounter with Ray Embrey, a local public relations guru, our unwashed hero gets a makeover. Reluctant at first to clean up his offensive act the wonder man finally relents. Just whether Hancock can make the transition to getting some class is the six million dollar question during his 92 minute sojourn.

Director Peter Berg (Collateral) lays on the special effects and Will Smith (Independence Day) has a field day with the one liners in this rather guilty pleasure diversion. Elements of alcoholism and family breakdown are also handled here with tact. Couple of the hour Mary and Ray Embrey are well portrayed by Jason Bateman (The Kingdom) and Charlize Theron (Monster) with young Jae Head making a nice debut as a hero worshipping son.

Where the film really takes off, however, is by going into the origins of the hero. Audiences will be taken completely by surprise by a unique plot shift that really gives what would otherwise have been a run of the mill super hero story considerable depth, challenge and dare I say charm.

Fans of Will Smith should get a kick out of this consummate actor's portrayal of a down on his luck superhero addicted to alcohol and bad manners who may yet change his act. Just how Hancock came into being is a story unto itself that will leave onlookers gaping in awe at what new nuances may unfold.

Betrayed! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Like father like son provides much ammunition for thought in the action packed Wanted. Based on the hit graphic comics series from visionary Mark Millar this sassy Universal Studios assault on the senses is thrilling adrenalin seeking fans at Empire Studio 12, Scotiabank Theatre,Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C.

Escapism kicks into high gear when we meet up with common worker Wesley Gibson. Just a run of the mill employee in some billing department with an accounting designation of sorts our poor chap is a classic case of the typical guy going nowhere. Come to think of it you may say young Wesley's life is on a downward spiral. Consider him like the guy at the beach who gets sand kicked in his face. Poor Wes faces countless indignities on the job, at home and with his girl. Contrast this drab and dreary lifestyle to that of his long-forgotten dad.

Apparently Mr. Gibson senior carried on a rather clandestine life as a sort of James Bond freelancer. This elder "statesman's" main purpose in life was to protect the world. Maxwell Smart, look out! As a member of a secret organization called "The Fraternity" killing was in Mr. Gibson's heritage. Now, apparently, those coveted shoot to kill genes are also in his son's blood.

Adrenalin goes into overdrive when Wesley is recruited to join this killing clan. Now, we've all seen this story line before. Here, however, the story has lots of meat with all sorts of plot shifts. Under the able direction of ace Russian craftsman Timur Bekmambetov (Night Watch) viewers are swept into this cult of executioners.

Before becoming a full fledged member of the tribe Wesley is put through an unbelievable training session, not unlike the classic get into shape Rocky regimen. Shades of The Dirty Dozen's passion for weeding out the wimps also come into play here as mild mannered Wesley becomes quite the elite fighting force.

Tongue in check fun all the way with loads of firepower and unbelievably clever (if not ridiculous) stunts makes Wanted a film worth seeking out. Hot Scottish actor James McAvoy (The Last King of Scotland) comes on strong as an unlikely action star with that perfect swarmy charm to make his character believable. People will be rooting for this underdog all the way as he faces bullying in his "ordinary" life before turning the tables and confronting his challenges head on.

Lissome Angelina Jolie (Mr. and Mrs. Smith) is in fine form as Fox, one of the hired folks out to whip Wesley into shape. Man of all seasons Morgan Freeman (Batman Begins) continues to impress as Sloan, the head of this secretive organization with top notch Terrence Stamp (Get Smart) appearing in a small role as an arms procurer.

Beautiful cinematography and a relentless pace makes Wanted top flight fun as a high octane action romp with an unlikely hero bound to win you over!

Missed It! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Beware filmmakers should you attempt to take on a cult hero. A few years back Will Smith missed out with his remake/update of The Wild Wild West, a colossal failure as was the big screen version of Lost in Space with Gary Oldman. Out to buck this downward trend of making big screen hay out of television standouts is funny man Steve Carell. All looked like a slam duck for the rejuvenated Get Smart, a slick update of the classic mid-60s television series from Warner Brothers. Fans of the late Don Adams series will be able to judge whether the new version can hold up to the old at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking), Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C.

Plots mean little to these action/comedy romps. What counts here is the overall tone and flavour of the proceedings and here director Peter Segal (Anger Management) succeeds in creating a fun atmosphere. Story-wise, we have our illustrious hero, Maxwell Smart, desperately trying to earn his stripes as a full-fledged Control agent. Thanks to a fluke Max gets promotes, largely out of attrition, and finds himself immersed in some worldly plot by the bad guys (Kaos) to use nuclear missiles to ransom the world. From there things get even more preposterous as the jokes fly off the handle and you're not quite sure who are your friends and who are your enemies in this 112 minute escapade.

Where Get Smart earns its stripes is in the casting. Top level comic Steve Carell (The 40 Year Old Virgin) is totally charming as the inept Agent 86. Good as his foil and nice eye candy to boot is superstar Anne Hathaway (The Devil Wears Prada) who deliciously plays Agent 99. Perhaps the biggest surprise of all is former football/wrestling star Wayne Johnson (Walking Tall) who continues to mature as another Control agent with that patented killer smile. Completing this fun-filled cast is veteran acting great Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine) taking on the former Ed Platt role as The Chief and Terrence Stamp (The Limey) coming on strong as Kaos bad dude Siegfried.

Slapstick and stupid situations abound in Get Smart. Unfortunately and here's the rub, there just aren't enough gut-splitting jokes to make the movie that memorable despite the best efforts of the cast. My oh my how the studio here could have benefited from the wicked wit of series creators Mel Brooks and Buck Henry. Touches of nostalgia that hark back to patented trademark like the show phone and Max's red Sunbeam convertible are only two touched reunited with our fearless spies in this mildly amusing film that, in all honestly, seems to have somewhat ran out of gas in the gags department.

Grudge Match! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Out to get ahead provides the seeds for conflict in The Promotion, a wacky tale of corporate greed from Alliance Films now unraveling at the Granville Seven Cinemas.

Two of today's most appealing comics lock horns as a couple of bumbling employees trying to win a coveted managerial position. Ho hum describes the activities of the personnel at Donaldson's, a grocery chain with a host of difficulties. Current store staffer Doug Stauber has been at one store for a number of years and seems ready to land the manager position at a soon to be opened retail outlet. Odds are good for the promotion as his boss Scott has indicated.

Bad news travels fast and the arrival of a newly minted employee to join Donaldson's staff puts a sort of wrench in Doug's plan. Enter Richard Welhner, fresh off the boat from Canada, of all places. Now Canadians are considered a nice class of people so at first these two colleagues are friends. Time can change things and when it appears that Richard may in fact have the inside track to the new post the gloves come off.

Childish rivalry characterizes these two grown men who pull out all the stops to derail the others chances. Left in the dust are the women in these men's lives. Part of the fun in this film comes by way of the supporting cast who each have their own unique idiosyncrasies that border on the insane.

Director Steve Conrad is blessed, yes blessed, with some stellar stars but somehow the story just doesn't quite connect. Always likeable Sean William Scott (Mr. Woodcock) and John C. Reilly (Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby) are proven leading man and have easily carried films on their own. Here they're lacking a good script which is not quite full fledged comedy or black comedy. More jokes would have really enhanced this movie.

A good supporting cast somewhat salvages these two talents. Likeable Jenna Fischer (Blades of Glory) effectively plays Doug's caring wife while Lili Taylor (The Notorious Bettie Page) performs likewise for Richard. Home town hero Gil Bellows (The Weather Man) puts that old Point Grey education to good use as a caustic corporate executive given the ultimate task to decide which man is best for the job.

Mildly amusing, The Promotion ought to go into the win columns for fans of Seann William Scott and John C. Reilly while others may be left wanting a bit more.

Comic Gem! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Full value comes easy courtesy of the cast in Twelfth Night, the newest Bard on the Beach spectacular now thrilling audiences at Vanier Park, by the Planetarium in Vancouver. Just over 500 lucky people of all ages had the time of their lives watching this three hour tour de farce that is high energy from the get go.

Send offs can be fun. Novel ideas can also click! Thanks to a wondrous silent movie opening that's absolutely hilarious the stage is set to immerse one's heart in this soulful play created by William Shakespeare way back in 1600. Only now the story is sort of set in the roaring 20s! Close attention must be paid to the goings on here as the characters and absurdity come at you hot and heavy. Part of the fun relates to a survivor named Viola who winds up in the land known as Illyria. Once there this lady latches onto the coattails of notable megabucks Duke Orsino, pretending to be a page named Cesario. Trickery never felt so good.

Things get a bit tricky since this dashing, debonair cad only has eyes for the beautiful socialite Countess Olivia. Through hook and by crook Orsino wants this woman and sends Cesario, actually Viola pretending to be a man, to win her over. Little does he know that the Countess has other preferences. Meanwhile, more shenanigans occur as Olivia is also being wooed by another nobleman, a much younger stud-in-training known as Sir Andrew Aguecheek. Aided and abetted by the wily rogue/relative Sir Toby Belch the frivolity really begins to kick into overdrive. As if that wasn't enough romantic foreplay you also have a wacky butler named Malvolio who brings the house down as a cupid in waiting.

Great slapstick humour combines with more modern song and dance tunes from classics by Cole Porter, Gershwin and other standard bearers to make Twelfth Night a wonderful night no matter what day you see it.

Strong acting that will have you rolling in the aisles emanates from all the assembled talented cast. Director David Mackay smartly makes use of a balcony set and fleshes it out with great pieces bolstered by instrumental props and the occasional sword or two. Zany describes the youthful antics of Ryan Beil who kids will surely be able to relate to as the boyish nobleman Andrew Aguecheek. Great songs by way of Scott Bellis as the comical Feste and dashing Todd Talbot as the wealthy Orsino put you in the mood for a wonderful experience. Lovebirds will understand why Olivia is the object of all men's affection thanks to the contagious presence of Melissa Poll with Andrew Wheeler (The Day The Earth Stood Still) perhaps stealing the show as the maladjusted, misunderstood Malvolio. Lastly, one can't help but single out the stunning work of Lois Anderson as the woman/man Viola.

Under the tents until September 27 at Vanier Park, Bard on the Beach's Twelfth Night is not to be missed. For more information or tickets contact (604) 739-0559 or go to www.bardonthebeach.org

Spoiled Children! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Getting old brings on a host of problems. Besides one's health and being able to pay all those bills retirees often wonder just how to dispose of their worldly possessions. More success often leads to additional headaches which are even more pronounced when children come into play. Good old William Shakespeare explores this issue head on in King Lear, a dazzling production under the tents at Vanier Park. Part of the Bard on the Beach Shakespearean festival this classic written way back in 1605-1606 will delight fans of this stalwart British scribe.

As in most Shakespeare stories you really need a scorecard to keep track of all that's going on. By all accounts the main "issue" at hand is how our friendly (?) king will divide his estate among three grown daughters. Huge amounts of intrigue sets in as there's trouble from the get go with youngest child Cordelia leaving in a huff.

Things get rather complicated as new conspiracies are hatched that ultimately involve foreign politics, messed up marriages and a whole lot more. Through it all we see the slow decline of King Lear who turns into a very bitter old man. Bound to a wheelchair we see the seething anger in this man as he lets go of his children who ultimately "turn" against him.

While this trouble persists we also see the seething rage develop between a tandem family headed by the Earl of Gloucester revolving around two grown male children. Never the twain shall meet and we are held in rapt attention as we bear witness to a slow decay in family values and bloodlines with bitter moments on the near horizon.

Standout acting in this three hour production will make one yearn for those days of yesteryear and pray your family is a bit more refined. Dignity in this tale is in short supply as the knives come out early and often as rage leads to outward violence with bits of torture thrown in for good measure.

Bard head honcho Christopher Gaze is in top form as the demented, miserable king. Every other cast member is impeccable and as an added bonus most sing while many also play instruments in this pivotal tale of greed, lust and royal screw ups. Action is hot and heavy as the gloves come off and the blood flows freely in this rather "eventful" story that leaves the comedy for other plays as here the strength is in the intensity of the rivalries that leave no stone unturned.

Director James Fagan Tait has a field day with not just the bizarre clan members but also the natural elements as our story and action takes flight. There's a great stormy moment on route to Dover along with some neat climbing onto balconies that further showcase the desperate nature of the situation. Military might also rears its head when foreign legions come a calling.

Classy performances from Lois Anderson, Tiffany Lyndall-Knight and Melissa Poll set the ball in motion as King Lear's wayward offspring with Gerry Mackay and Christopher Weddell also quite notable as the Earl of Kent and Gloucester, respectively.

Get more of your Shakespeare fix with King Lear, on view under the tents by the planetarium until Sept. 26. For more news on Bard, tickets and show times for King Lear call (604) 739-0559 or go to www.bardonthebeach.org. You'll be glad you did!

On The Road Again! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Road trips can be fun. Whether on the silver screen or via live entertainment "bonding" on route to a destination can be a rather "trying" experience. Good friends return to the fore for one last hurrah in The Back Kitchen Release Party, a winning entry from the Arts Club Theatre now revving folks up at the Granville Island Stage

Canada is a diverse country. Old fashioned friendships get tested to the max in this wayward tale of five friends from Newfoundland heading to the west coast. Early on we see the dynamics of this group of musicians who are "connected" through the death of a friend. Arguably the leader of the pack, Ned, decides to get the group back together to pay homage to a dear departed friend. So after five years the members are contacted and get ready to hit the road.

One "minor" problem confronts the musicians. Unfortunately the lead fiddler/violinist has left the security of the Maritimes for the big time in Toronto. All alone in hog town is ace instrumentalist Maggie, now biding her time at the symphony. Reluctant to go on the journey she finally relents. What follows is a hilarious trip to the coast with eventful stops along the way. Small town Canada gets full coverage as these five well-meaning friends reunite with their music and each other to benefit a long-lost friend.

Growth and relationships are integral to this play as is the humour. Above all else it's the charm of the songs that will get to you. Each of the performers adds spark and sparkle to the story with a backdrop romance further flavouring the proceedings. Even a makeshift truck that the group travels in will have you in stitches.

Each singer/musician has a certain nonchalant quality that will reel you in. Focus of course rests with the makeshift group leader, played with charm and flair by Trevor Devall. Every step his equal in the male/female dynamic is Sarah Donald with Jonathan Teague supplying those needed road directions to lotus land. Rounding out the cast in this whimsical story are Sarah May Redmond with a penchant for always getting those high notes right and Tracey Power, a lass with powerful strumming ability.

Fans of the banjo, violin, guitar, drums, flute and other instruments will get a kick out of what's in store for them during this two hour jaunt. Down home fun with a tinge of Newfie humour makes The Back Kitchen Release Party a good send-off for summer and appealing to folks of all ages. Director Don Noble makes a noble effort to bring this event to appreciative audiences who may have not seen the original inspiration done at the Fringe Festival a while back. And, as a bonus, you get the opportunity to get a CD afterwards that features the show's 14 songs. Oh, and don't forget to catch the nifty Star Trek take-off that acts as a bit of a showstopper to the show.

Catch The Back Kitchen Release Party, the Arts Club's last 2008 production before the fall season begins only until August 2 at the Granville Island Stage. For tickets or show times call (604) 687-1644 or go to www.artsclub.com

Friends Forever! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Decadent, delicious, delightful fun is to be had with the big screen version of Sex and The City. Aim high and one can be richly rewarded. Take it from a rookie who has never had the pleasure of seeing this award winning Home Box Office sensation first hand. Truth be told this big screen version from Alliance Films is a refreshing take on modern relationships. First time big screen director Michael Patrick King succeeds in taking us deep inside the thoughts of four contemporary New York women that most can relate to - or fantasize about. Take it all in with open minds at Scotiabank Theatre, Fifth Avenue Cinemas, Colossus, Empire Studio 12 and Famous Players arenas around B.C.

Where does one begin to describe the carnal cravings of this quartet of forty something women? Let's start from the top as two of the girls are the pivotal cogs in this well-oiled machine that effectively chronicles the ups and downs of aging and trying to "hook" up with true love. Main New York bright light Carrie Bradshaw continues to be the centre of attention as she's still single and pining for man of her dreams Mr. Big. Against all odds the two decide to get hitched. Naturally, the storybook wedding and follow-up honeymoon goes a little bit off course.

Fret not ladies. Good friends Charlotte York, Samantha Jones and Miranda Hobbes are not just women in waiting but turn out to be solid shoulders to cry on when the going gets tough. Hard times await each of these women as the ins and outs and grunts and sighs of all those interludes with men get wickedly skewered under a very witty script.

Through the course of 146 minutes onlookers are enthralled as we delve deep into the desires and goals of these fast-tracking women. Loads of fun with style and panache blossom on screen as the very essence of consumerism is shown with reckless abandon here. Under all those designer labels and pangs for love are some very genuine moments with feelings bursting to the surface. Each woman in this piece has loads of screen time with her "significant" other and those oh so wicked flings. Very smart and engaging repartee between the ladies and their partners sparks of realistic situations that only heighten the broad appeal of this movie. Beyond the fun and games, however, we get to see some real emotion that hits home with a bang.

Sarah Jessica Parker (Smart People) undergoes quite a metamorphosis in this tale of wanting that storybook wedding. How she reacts to her affair with Mr. Big is front and centre in this film that will grip you like no other. Just as much fun is the man hungry Samantha Jones, delightfully played with reckless abandon by British Columbia born Kim Catrall (Porky's). On hand also to cheer the girls on are mainstays Miranda and Charlotte, exquisitely portrayed by Cynthia Nixon (The Babysitters) and Kristin Davis (The Shaggy Dog).

Man of the hour Mr. Big will either steel hearts or make one want to kill. Under the able delivery of Chris Noth (Mr. Brooks) our Don Juan will have you either cheering or hissing him on. Super chemistry between Noth and Ms. Parker just intensifies the huge larger than life presence this film succeeds in pulling off.

Fun from start to finish with bittersweet moments makes Sex and the City must see fun for contemporary adults. Great secondary characters and a memorable soundtrack with pitch perfect songs that fit the right groove will make fans of the television series glad they tuned in while newcomers like me will easily fall under the wonderful spell of watching these four career-minded ladies go through a huge change in their ultimate designs for happiness.

Back in Action! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Legacies are made. Heroes are born. Friends are to be cherished. Audiences are in for a real treat with the return of one of Hollywood's all time heroes. After a decades long absence good buddies Steven Spielberg and George Lucas finally answer some prayers with Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, a rip-roaring action adventure fantasy presented by Paramount Studios and packing them in at Scotiabank Theatre, Fifth Avenue Cinemas, Oakridge Centre Cinemas, the Esplanade 6, Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C. Worth the wait, moviegoers get to thrill as the man in the hat returns for more mischief and daring feats as only Harrison Ford can deliver. Yes, the former carpenter still has it in him to do battle with the bad guys, and in this case one very evil woman.

So far we've seen Indiana Jones tackle the Nazis in three previous outings. This time writer/creator George Lucas (Star Wars) has the famed archaeologist take on the Russians in 1957. Director Steven Spielberg (Jaws) offers us a great atmosphere rocking with sounds and sights from the era as Dr. Jones takes off on a whirlwind trip to find some magical artifact hidden in a mystery city somewhere in South America.

Very clever writing from George Lucas sees an emphasis on science and history combine as this ancient sleuth winds up in deeper trouble by the second. Ford does not really show his age at a svelte 65 and has all the charm as in his youth, giving off one-liners by the dozens and surprisingly making them all work flawlessly. Fun with his age eases us into the action that begins stateside and hop scotches to the jungles of Peru.

Past friends resurface with a new enemy named Irina Spalko who just oozes evil. Oscar winning actress Cate Blanchett (Elizabeth) hams it up and wins hearts as the wicked witch of a KGB operative who delights in tormenting (and torturing) our American professor who leaves the books behind as he gets hooked again on some quest to save the world.

One reason it took so long to green light a new Indiana Jones adventure was due to the film schedules of Ford and Spielberg and the difficulty of coming up with the right story. Lucky for us everything has finally come together and the result is two hours of fun. Escapism never felt better as the action sequences are outstanding. One big plus is the casting of Shia LaBeouf (Disturbia) who I would say steals the show as Mutt Williams, a slick-backed greaser who winds up in an even bigger mess when he hooks up with our Mr. Jones.

Full scale fun awaits all who venture into the delightful world of renowned archaeologist Indiana Jones who doesn't seem to have lost a step since his inaugural run during Raiders of the Lost Ark. Well, maybe half a step.

Dangerous Trek! 
 

By ROBERT WALDMAN 

Subterfuge of a more subtle nature gets shown full circle in The Children of Huang Shi, an engaging movie based on a true story. Brought to the screen by Mongrel Media this mainly English movie is on screen at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking).

Talented Canadian director Roger Spottiswoode (Tomorrow Never Dies) assembles a top international cast and turns his lens on 1935 Shanghai. Quick opening shots show the turmoil in China as the Japanese army is on the move. An enterprising reporter manages to go behind enemy lines to break ranks in a rather dangerous inland city.

All alone save for the ever present enemy force is one George Hogg. Born to a pacifist family this idealist learns the hard way about the horrors of war. Deep in trouble behind enemy lines George gets a break from a fleeting rebel leader called Chen Hansheng. Freedom for George depends on getting away from the fighting which sees him relocate further inland. Left to his own devices this maligned Brit winds up at an enclave run by orphans. There to learn the language and stave off annihilation George gets by after a rough start and manages to engage the children, though its a long arduous process.

Occasional visitor Lee Pearson tries to make his burden a bit less difficult. Over time the pair become friends as the advancing Japanese begin to make life hard for all concerned.

Ottawa born Spottiswoode does a good job recreating the 1930s Shanghai era and does coax strong emotional performances from his top trio of thespians. Minor dialogue in Mandarin and Chinese lends a bit of authenticity to the proceedings which helps to enliven things. You can sense the desperation of the children and the perilous plight the group makes to regain freedom.

Irish born Jonathan Rhys Meyers (Match Point) rises to the occasion as the idealist George Hogg, a well-meaning sod in way over his head. Chinese acting great Chow Yun-Fat (The Corruptors) lends his considerable presence as a rebel leader with a certain contagious swagger and panache while stylish Michelle Yeoh (Memoirs of A Geisha) elevates things considerably as Mrs. Wang, a business woman of means with a story behind every sale. Completing this cast is Australia's Radha Mitchell (Phone Booth) who comes on strong as a nurse with attitude.

Long at 114 minutes parts of The Children of Huang Shi get bogged down. If you can overlook the slow pacing you may find some redemption in this film which follows the plight of some wayward children and a reporter caught in the wrong place at the wrong time with seemingly no escape from hell.