Easy Virtue

Which stereotypes are more correct here - the brash Americans or the stiff squeaky Brits? Either way this is a fun movie to watch. Don't expect too much in the way of cinema magic or brilliant plot lines. But you can expect some fun surprises and a few great one-liners.

Jessica Biel and Ben Barnes are interesting together, but I found the combo hard to "buy" from the beginning. By the end of the movie I understood why. The relationship of far more interest is that of Kristin Scott Thomas, Colin Firth and Jessica Biel's characters. All do a great job with their roles.

As period romances go, this is okay. As romantic comedies go, it's still just okay. There are not that many period romantic comedies. And how many out there are based on Noel Coward plays? All in all a pretty clever story told in a fairly fun way.

Watch this movie with someone who enjoys a still upper crust British accent with their popcorn and tea.

Awake

Lena Olin has always been on my list. You know the list I'm talking about. Her performance in this movie, while key, is only a supporting one. Just the same, I still have my baby crush on her.

Heyden Christensen appears to be growing into his voice. His character while anesthetics is very interesting. Not so much the rest of the time. That may be by design, but I'm not so sure.

Jessica Alba as a villain rather than the heroine was a pleasant surprise. This is pretty much all the good surprises though from her.

You know how much I like Terrence Howard. You also know I think his delivery does not change from character to character. That works for me so far. Keep it up Mr. Howard.

Bottom line, this is a movie you can skip.