The movie's musical sequences, which primarily feature popularized versions of gospel standards, are exhilarating and energetic. Unfortunately, that's only half the story, because the so-called dramatic material, which links together all the musical numbers, is mind-numbingly bad.

Has enough charm and whimsy to capture the attention and imagination of children and parents alike, and arguably represents one of the best live-action family films to enter theaters this year.

An example of a vampire movie for the new century -- stylish, gothic, gory, and loud.

Admittedly, mediocre Sayles is still watchable, but, relative to expectations, Casa de los Babys is a disappointment of significant proportions.

The dialogue -- especially that between Roy and Frank -- crackles with wit and intelligence (a rarity in films these days).

A bloody fairy tale with no moral and a lot of juice.

Simply put, Sofia Copolla's Lost in Translation is an amazing motion picture.

Want to see a movie where almost everything takes place on a bus? Try "Speed." Jeepers Creepers 2 isn't even worth a peek.

The film will almost certainly speak most strongly to those viewers whose age approximates those of the characters, but the narrative and performances are strong enough to involve anyone who gives this motion picture a chance.

Since the stunts are sub-par and feature considerable computer help, the movie gives the impression that it's trying too hard to be campy and silly.

Message to those who thought Gigli was the worst movie of 2003: check this one out. You'll change your mind damn fast.

A smart movie that does not simplify or candy-coat the rigors of the teenage years.

The best way to sum up Freddy Vs. Jason is: good concept, mediocre execution.

American Splendor is deserving of accolades, not only because it tells an interesting story about a fascinating man, but because it does so with such freedom and freshness. I wish more of the comic book-inspired movies were like this.

This is a great two-hour motion picture. Unfortunately, it runs 20 minutes longer than that.

Infectiously entertaining comedy.

Characters are left half-developed or undeveloped so that as much plot as possible can be crammed into two hours. The result, while not wholly unsatisfying, will disappoint those used to the cinematic richness we have come to expect from this collaboration.

Likely won't please fans of the original TV series, but the movie hasn't been made for them.

Motion picture cotton candy - sweet while it lasts, easily disposed of, and insubstantial.

A disturbing and compelling motion picture that depicts the forces that try to suppress the human spirit, and the strength of these girls in overcoming it.

The core relationship is what makes the movie with this ill-advised title a well-advised choice.

This movie is a vast improvement over the tired and uninspired "American Pie 2," although it fails to make it to the lofty perch occupied by the first film.

Some of the dialogue is astonishingly awful. Sex and relationships are constantly likened to animal interaction.

It's an enjoyable and occasionally thought-provoking motion picture whose viewership should not be diminished by the unfortunate and inaccurate "anti-American" label.

It's an awkward technique that outlived its usefulness more than four decades ago. I like the movie, but hate its presentation.

The worst action movie of the summer. I liked Bad Boys II a little less, but making the comparison is like distinguishing between a cow turd and a horse turd. And that pretty much sums it up nicely.

Eventually, Seabiscuit settles into a nice rhythm, and, as it enters the stretch run, it exhibits all the necessary elements of a good sports movie. Like the horse it's named after, Seabiscuit has a lot of heart, and, in the end, that's what won me over.

It's a dark and revealing movie, and, while the ending may not be upbeat enough for those expecting mainstream fare, it offers a measure of hope and a catharsis.