Get On Up (Rated: PG-13)
Drama
Carol: Don’t Even Rent It
This is the “story” of James Brown, his rise from poverty to super-star. Too bad it was so poorly conceived. I have to blame this on the editing. The viewer really never knows at what point in Brown’s life we are viewing as it skips all over the place. Plus, I didn’t feel as though it was a truly accurate portrayal of Brown — he was mild mannered one minute, in jail the next and violent the next. If we’re going to be exposed to biographical stories on the screen, perhaps we should have an honest depiction.
Phil: Worth The Matinee Price
A film about the life of James Brown. Don’t expect a film concert, ala “Jersey Boys.” This is more a detailed biography of Brown; enjoyable and informative especially if you’re a fan of his music.
Lucy (Rated: R)
Sci-Fi
Carol: Don’t Even Rent It
This started out promising but ended on a silly note. Drug mule turns super-brain. Come on; surely the writers, producers and directors can make a film that is at least a bit believable. This summer has generated way too many “out there” films.
Phil: Wait for the Video
A different kind of movie. Starts out with the audience expecting the normal “action” movie. Somewhere after the halfway point however, the movie tends to lose its focus and begins wandering, along with the lead actress’ mind. Neither Morgan Freeman nor Scarlett Johansson,should list this as one of their better films.
