Latest movies

Saw several movies recently. In the theater:

The Kingdom. Better than I expected, but more depressing too - it essentially suggests that we're all doomed and there's no real solution to The War on Terror. Plus they killed off a great character and turned him into a plot device - annoying.

Things We Lost in the Fire. A really great cast - Halle Berry, Benicio Del Toro and David Duchovny. And a really beautifully made movie. But ultimately it was a bit disappointing - kind of arty and a little random - not quite what I expected. Worth watching, especially for Benicio Delicio (my husband and stepson coined that!), but not quite the emotionally or psychological impact that I had hoped for.

Bee Movie. I took my son to this, but I enjoyed it at least as much as he did, and therein lies it's brilliance - it holds the interest of all ages. I thought there were many charming jokes and of course the basic message was timely. Seinfeld's still got it.

On video:

Gray Matters. A surprisingly adorable Heather Graham coming out of the closet when she falls in love with her beloved brother's hot new wife (played by the incredibly gorgeous Bridget Moynahan). Also features Rachel Shelley, who plays Helena Peabody on The L Word. Quite a charming romantic comedy, with a light touch and likable characters (and a smokin' hot kiss) - it just may be the first lesbian rom-com on my Must See list.

The Dog Problem. Deliberately quirky charmer with Giovanni Ribisi (does he make any other kind of movie?), written and directed by Scott Caan. Odd but funny right up to the off kilter ending. Minor complaint: Mena Suvari, who's been terrific in other movies was completely wasted here.

Wedding Wars. With John Stamos as a gay party planner who helps his brother, a political aide, plan a big wedding. The brother is played by Eric Dane ("McSteamy" on Grey's Anatomy). This was made by A&E, but I missed it when it was broadcast months ago, so had to get it on video. Pretty respectable for a TV movie - a couple of dorky moments, but more charming that I expected. Bonus with the DVD - nice little "Making Of" video on the disc.