This film focuses on another visit to Narnia by the main characters; brother and sister Edmund and Lucy Pevensie. Upon their return, the children meet with Prince Caspian, who requests their presence on a long sea voyage. They embark upon this voyage in a coveted ship known as The Dawn Treader, bravely facing the dangers they know lie ahead. They are met with these dangers in the forms of dwarves, dragons, merpeople, warriors, and a number of other magical obstacles that must be defeated.

In addition to promising family fun and excitement, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader also offers a number of important life lessons and advice to developing viewers. This is one thing that makes this series so popular, because parents know that, in addition to being entertained, their children will be growing from their involvement in this epic fantasy literature.

While this film still holds much appeal for dedicated Narnia fans, many have been disappointed by this film when comparing it to the previous two. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is the third installment in the Narnia series, and many complain that it doesn’t provide the impressive graphics and visual effects of the first two. Additionally, it lacks the previous excitement provided by the introduction of multiple new characters. While past films have been full of odd entities and fantastical personalities, the latest plot doesn’t offer a lot of new character development. Though it does have some disadvantages when compared to its previous counterparts, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader still offers a lot of nostalgic value for those who grew up with the series, and a number of adventure sequences that promise good times for all.

TRON: Legacy is a technical adventure, taking place in an imaginative digital world. The plot follows Sam Flynn, played by Hedlund, who is introduced as a technically gifted boy in his late twenties. Flynn’s father, played by Bridges, has been missing for many years, spawning a number of questions that no one has been able to answer. Flynn is consumed by these questions, leading him to look into his father’s disappearance further, which only works to raise more questions.

Flynn’s quest for answers leads him to be sucked into the digital world known as Tron, where his father has been trapped, living there for the last 25 years. Along for the journey is Kevin’s sidekick, Quorra, played by Wilde, who assists Flynn and his father on their incredible escape attempt. The film follows this epic adventure through a cyber universe that is visually incomparable to anything seen in science fiction of the past. This film presents an exciting journey, wrought with danger that will engage young and old viewers, alike.

Dedicated fans of the original film may feel disappointed by the updated world of TRON: Legacy. The newer film presents the obvious opportunities for over the top special effects and exciting action sequences. While these aspects of the film certainly have value to entertainment seekers, those who were intrigued by the initial story present in the Tron adventure will find that it is largely overshadowed by Hollywood spectacle. While dedicated science fiction fans should still feel obliged to view the film, they should recognize that times are different, and some of what made the original so special has been lost to modern technology.

Alternatively, TRON: Legacy receives no complaints as a 3D movie. It is one of the best 3D movies that have come out since the popular inception of this technique, with numerous opportunities for in-your-face action. Audiences of the film were kept at the edge of their seats with the engaging fight sequences and seemingly personal involvement in action scenes. If you have never heard of Tron, the original story or the science fiction following, it is still worth viewing this film. While a 3D experience in the theater offer more excitement than a living room viewing, the DVD offers an equally engaging adventure through cyber space.

This film is based on the classic novel of the same title, written by Jonathan Swift and originally released in the 1700s. The movie, updated into modern times, tells the epic tale of Lemuel Gulliver, played by Black, who works as a mail clerk in a New York office. Craving something more, Gulliver bluffs his way into a job as a travel writer and embarks on his first assignment. During a storm he is thrust through a portal into an unknown land called Lilliput. In Lilliput, Gulliver is a giant because all of the people in the land are the size of a pinky finger.

While the Lilliputians (what the local townspeople are called) are initially frightened by Gulliver’s size and girth, as time goes on he comes to be involved in their affairs and eventually wins their affections. He then must act as a protector of Lilliput, acting as the heroic giant that must defeat incoming invaders and foreign attacks. The film that goes on to find Gulliver living the bigger than life dreams that he always imagined, and more. But can it live up to his expectations?

Gulliver’s Travels has wide appeal to kids and families, because it offers a minimally violent adventure tale involving overcoming adversity, and ends with the audience being taught a very important lesson; that it’s the size of the heart that counts, and not the body. There are many scenes throughout the film to keep the kids giggling, as well as few parts special for the adults.

Some people were disappointed by the film, however, as they were expecting a more accurate adaptation of the original story. Critics claim that too much was lost in trying to make the movie family-friendly, and some of the more serious issues behind the novel were ignored. Perhaps this is a good thing, however, as adventure stories are, at their base, designed to be fun and exciting. Adding too much intensity to the film, which couldn’t possibly accurately display 300 year old ideas, would have confused audiences and lowered the value of the film. As it is, the upcoming Gulliver’s Travels DVD presents an excellent choice for a Friday night family film, but should be avoided as the movie to show at a 21st birthday party.

The King’s Speech is a timepiece, taking place in the monarchy of England. After the death of King George V, played by Michael Gambon, and the scandalous renunciation of King Edward VIII, played by Pearce, a stuttering man named Bertie is made King George VI of England. Suffering from a speech impediment throughout his entire life, Bertie is faced with the challenge of bringing the country back from the verge of war, and providing them with a reliable leader to look up to.

His wife, played by Bonham Carter, makes arrangements with a speech therapist, played by Rush, who works with Bertie to perfect his speaking abilities. The two get off to an all-but-smooth start, eventually working their way into a strong relationship. With the support of the speech therapist, his wife, and Winston Churchill, played by Spall, Bertie works toward presenting the perfect speech to unify the people and bring the country into a new age of success and progress.

This film is based on the real life struggle of King George VI to find his voice in the monarchy. It is an engaging and intriguing look at a world that many people will never experience, and a challenge that many have never faced, let alone overcome. Because of the unique insight offered by The King’s Speech, it is one of the best films of the year. Presenting a wide range of themes and emotions, the cast fits perfectly together in this all-star ensemble. Each character is presented with such care and dedication that it is impossible not to appreciate the work that went into making this film, and making it as accurate as possible. This is definitely a necessary addition to any “Must See” list for 2011. The DVD will include a number of bonus features designed to give the audience a behind-the-scenes peak at the development of the film. There will also be featured commentary and additional footage not previously available to the public.

Rabbit Hole follows a damaged family, and their search for hope and possibility in a seemingly dark world of impossibility. Becca and Howie Corbett are the principal characters, played by Kidman and Eckhart, respectively, who have suffered a severe loss. In the wake of this tragedy we watch them trying to find themselves, or recreate themselves, in a new atmosphere of shock and guilt. Becca finds herself repelled by the familiar routines and activities that have brought her comfort in the past, while Howie indulges in them.

Key moments of the film include when Becca opens up to her intimidating, but loving, mother, played by Wiest. She also secretly confides in a teenager that was involved in the tragedy, played by Teller, looking for solace anywhere she can. Other highlights include when Howie briefly loses control, lashing out and considering adultery with another woman, played by Oh.

As much drama as takes place in this story, there is still time for heart lightening moments of laughter and content sprinkled throughout the film. Rabbit Hole is designed to invite the viewer down the rabbit hole of a modern family struggling with a disaster that will reshape their lives forever. It is a dark and earnest look at the effects of tragedy on relationships.

Rabbit Hole is a film adaptation of a Tony award winning play, originally written by the Pulitzer Prize winning Abaire, who also worked on the screenplay. The film spawned multiple award nominations, including a Golden Globe, an Academy Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, as well as many others. The film’s appraisal is due to the rough and draining subject material, which invokes difficult emotions. Rabbit Hole ends on a note of hope, however, offering a light at the end of a very long and dark tunnel. The DVD will include a number of bonus features designed to give the audience a behind-the-scenes peak at the development of the film. There will also be featured commentary and additional footage not previously available to the public.
The King’s Speech

The King’s Speech was released into movie theaters on November 26, 2010. It is directed by Tom Hooper, and stars Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce, and Timothy Spall. Running at 111 minutes, the film is distributed by The Weinstein Company, and is rated R for adult language. The DVD of this already popular drama will be available for public purchase on April 19, 2011.

The King’s Speech has become a much anticipated DVD release, as the title appeared in numerous categories at this year’s Academy Awards. Nominated in multiple areas, most notable recognition comes from the categories of Best Supporting Actor and Actress, Best Actor, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and even Best Picture. Colin Firth even picked up a win under the category of Best Actor, leaving critics blown away by his genuine performance.

The King’s Speech is a time piece, taking place in the monarchy of England. After the death of King George V, played by Michael Gambon, and the scandalous renunciation of King Edward VIII, played by Pearce, a stuttering man named Bertie is made King George VI of England. Suffering from a speech impediment throughout his entire life, Bertie is faced with the challenge of bringing the country back from the verge of war, and providing them with a reliable leader to look up to.

His wife, played by Bonham Carter, makes arrangements with a speech therapist, played by Rush, who works with Bertie to perfect his speaking abilities. The two get off to an all-but-smooth start, eventually working their way into a strong relationship. With the support of the speech therapist, his wife, and Winston Churchill, played by Spall, Bertie works toward presenting the perfect speech to unify the people and bring the country into a new age of success and progress.

This film is based on the real life struggle of King George VI to find his voice in the monarchy. It is an engaging and intriguing look at a world that many people will never experience, and a challenge that many have never faced, let alone overcome. Because of the unique insight offered by The King’s Speech, it is one of the best films of the year. Presenting a wide range of themes and emotions, the cast fits perfectly together in this all-star ensemble. Each character is presented with such care and dedication that it is impossible not to appreciate the work that went into making this film, and making it as accurate as possible. This is definitely a necessary addition to any “Must See” list being made for 2011. The DVD will include a number of bonus features designed to give the audience a behind-the-scenes peak at the development of the film. There will also be featured commentary and additional footage not previously available to the public.

This film presents Pam and Greg ten years into their relationship, signifying a large passage of time since the first installation of the series. With the arrival of their twins, they begin to experience some financial difficulties which lead Greg, normally a nurse, to take a second job with a drug manufacturing corporation. Jack, an ex-CIA agent who is still very mysterious and observant, doesn’t approve of this development. He is wrought with old suspicions about Greg’s character, and his involvement in the life of his daughter.

As the day of the birthday approaches, we find Greg and Pam inviting practically everyone they can think off, including Pam’s ex-boyfriend, Kevin. Kevin still has feelings for Pam, and Greg suspects as much, and so simultaneously tries to impress his wife and father-in-law. This, predictably, leaves everyone in a situation that promises laughs and entertainment. The cast of the film also features Barbra Streisand (as Greg’s mother), Laura Dern, and the beautiful Jessica Alba.

Little Fockers has received mixed reviews. While dedicated followers of the Focker family were pleased with the new installment, reveling in the familiar comedic style and offbeat jokes, those who were hoping for something different from this film were sorely disappointed. It seems the Focker franchise is trying to milk what it can out of its own name, and critics are not impressed with the all star cast, which they say doesn’t help redeem the script. Some critics can be rather harsh, however, and not all have been so negative.

Audiences around the country fell in love with Greg Focker years ago, with the release of Meet the Parents. They have watched him struggle through life’s awkward moments, and now they have another chance to watch him fumble through an important moment. Fans of the previous movies will be satisfied with Little Fockers, while those who didn’t enjoy the first two should steer clear. The humor is similar, the cast the same, and the antics just as crazy, if not at times unbelievable.

This chapter of the Harry Potter adventure finds Harry, Ron, and Hermione on a quest for horcruxes to destroy Voldemort’s seeming immortality. All horcruxes must be found and destroyed before the evil lord can be defeated, and Harry finds himself very lucky to have such devoted friends to help him on this journey. Dark forces, romantic tensions, and dangerous secrets threaten this gang of young magicians as they explore the deepest and darkest regions in search of the key to Voldemort’s downfall.

While many are disappointed to see the Harry Potter series come to an end, it’s hard not to feel frustrated with the fact that the last book has been turned into two separate films. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One is only the first of two films that will close the installations. If there were more subject matter to work with this would not be so disappointing. Page after page of wondering, talking, and searching comes across well on paper because the reader is kept engaged in the writing. When this is adapted onto film, however, viewers may find that they are slightly bored with the way the film is presented. Many people wish that the integrity of the last book was kept sacred, instead of being split into two separate portions.

Though the film does come with the bitter taste of a franchise that is milking itself for all its worth, die hard Harry Potter fans would be remiss to miss this latest installation. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One may not carry the adventure and excitement of the previous films, but it’s still Harry Potter, after all, and that’s a bond that’s hard to break. This is a series that will be delighting kids and adults, alike, long after its initial release.

The plot of The Paranoids introduces Luciano, played by Hendler, who is an anxious and anal entertainer, also struggling to start a career as a popular screenwriter. He constantly worries about his personal health, and appears to be a loser at the start of the film. When Luciano accidentally puts his stage partner, Sherman, played by Feldman, in the hospital, he is forced to stop performing for weeks at a time. When an old friend comes in from out of town, Manuel, played by Jakob, Luciano is renewed with hope. Manuel is the star of a famous television series, dating a beautiful girl, Sophia, played by Stuart, and is an all around impressive character.

Luciano recruits Manuel to help him get back on track, and finds himself faced with an unpleasant truth; while Manuel has helped to find work with a writing assignment, it becomes more and more obvious that he is only helping out of obligation, and not out of a true belief in Luciano’s talents. When Manuel is then forced to leave for a little while due to business, Sophia is left with Luciano, who she finds quite charming. Luciano is then faced with a few moral dilemmas that offer a complicated film about ambition, betrayal, and opportunity.

The Paranoids takes place in Argentina, and was entered into the 2008 Buenos Aires Film Festival. The film has also been nominated for awards at the Seattle International Film Festival in 2009, as well as similar events held in the San Francisco and Toronto areas, held in 2009 and 2008, respectively. While the film has been praised for its subtle wit and cinematic style, the film fails to reach large audiences. With the release of the DVD distributors are hoping to make the film available to a wider audience, as it is deliciously offbeat and worth viewing. The Paranoids has been incredibly undersold, and those who view it will agree that just because a film is not widely popular, doesn’t mean it has nothing to offer. The DVD will include a number of bonus features designed to give the audience a behind-the-scenes peak at the development of the film. There will also be featured commentary and additional footage not previously available to the public.

Country Strong introduces Hedlund as Beau Hutton, a budding musician working toward a career as a singer and songwriter. The young musician is intrigued by Paltrow’s character, Kelly Canter, who is a wasted country star who has slipped into a state of emotional instability. The two become involved with each other due to shared ambitions, agreeing to take the necessary steps to resurrect her career. They embark on a tour that is organized by Paltrow’s husband, James Canter, who also works as her manager, played by McGraw. The tour also features performances by Meester’s character, Chiles Stanton, who is presented as an old beauty queen taking a stab at the music industry.

Country Strong presents an exciting world of music, romance, and lost hopes being brightened with new ambitions. The film portrays an exciting range of emotions, making audiences laugh, cry, and sing at various points along the journey. It has received particular praise for the story’s ability to showcase each principal role in its own compelling way. While many movies that feature an all-star cast tend to draw focus away from character development, Country Strong was filmed with an advanced sense of thematic balance, offering audiences a unique and thorough view at the life of each person involved.

While the story does not appear that deep at first glance, viewers will find that Country Strong offers an incredibly sympathetic look at the backstage of a complex group of performers. This is Shana Feste’s second feature in which she has been able to write, direct, and compile an impressive cast of developed principal roles. A promising presence in the film industry, Feste’s unique approach to the subject material offer audiences a one-of-kind view into a world of hope and struggle. She claims the film was inspired by the trials and tribulations experiences by pop-star Britney Spears, though the plot also parallels the struggles of country star Mindy McCrea. The soundtrack of this film also receives praise for its original musical numbers, promising the presentation of some memorable performances.

This film has gained popular interest because it is based on real life events, seemingly too ridiculous to be true. Based on the wild and crazy life of Jack Abramoff, Casino Jack follows a business man, played by Spacey, who gets involved in a deep and dark world of deception and wealth. The film follows Jack and his business associate Michael Scanlon, played by Pepper. These partners work together to create an intimidating entity of wealth and power, which they then hold over the heads of prominent men of power in order to gain influence.

Jack and Michael get involved in a number of illegal plans and schemes, requiring the help of a more experienced criminal mind. That’s when they recruit the help of one of their friends who is known to have important connections to the mob. This friend, played by Lovitz, agrees to help with the criminal events, leading the men to venture deeper and deeper into a dangerous world of violence and scandal. As the film continues, the audience is invited into a world of shocking mafia assassinations, lies and deceit, and scandal that continues to spiral further and further out of the control of those who started it all. Those familiar with the story will know how the film ends, but Casino Jack offers a number of insights into the story that spread across world newspapers like wildfire.

What makes this film so exciting is its obvious hesitation to protect any of the people involved in the plot. Names have not been changed throughout the story, including references to ex-president George W Bush and Senator John McCain, nor have locations and many important details. This film is incredibly forthright, presenting a stunning view of a scandal that grabbed the attention of a nation. Using a fictional stage to jab at very real situations, Casino Jack is a bold representation of serious events that allow audiences to view a dark side of American politics and the struggle for power and wealth. Director Hickenlooper even includes actual footage from the hearing against Abramoff, and shots of John McCain taken during the actual controversy.