Petersen ratchets the tension up to a level where the viewer is likely to forget the imbecilic plot contrivances that have gotten the situation to this point, and just enjoy the action and adventure.

Mrs. Brown will delight and touch any viewer who seeks it out.

A clunky script that reduces the characters to one-dimensional stereotypes.

Possesses both an edge and a sense of self-mocking that's unusual for any feature, live or animated.

Contact is that rare big-budget motion picture that places ideas, characters, and plot above everything else.

It is Lee's job as a film maker to imbue these images with life, and that's a task he easily accomplishes.

The movie that "Mars Attacks!" wanted to be, but wasn't. This is a snappy, clever, often-funny motion picture that provides the perfect blend of science fiction-style action with comic dialogue.

Woo, who is known and appreciated for his unique stylistic approach to violence and bloodshed, creates a kinetic ballet of bullets and explosions that drives the adrenaline level through the roof.

Let me start by saying that Hercules, Walt Disney Pictures' 35th animated feature, makes for good family entertainment. Good, not great. While this film is capable of providing a ninety minute diversion for both kids and adults, it's a far cry from such recent classics as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin.

This film, which places yet another actor in the batsuit, has all the necessary hallmarks of a sorry sequel -- pointless, plodding plotting; asinine action; clueless, comatose characterization; and dumb dialogue.

The film makers understand that it's possible for a romantic comedy to appeal not only to the heart, but to the mind as well.

Speed 2 can be numbered among the worst second chapters ever made.

The highest compliment I can offer Ulee's Gold is that it plays more like real life than a movie.

This movie is a perfect example of what's wrong with many big-budget films today: no characters, no intelligence, and, worst of all, little fun.

The great irony of this film, which is (at least on one level) about the power of writing, is that the words are of secondary importance to the overwhelming visual presentation.

A deliciously nasty, dark comedy.

Much of this movie seems like a retread of Jurassic Park (with a little King Kong thrown in at the end), not because director Steven Spielberg is intentionally copying himself, but because there's really not much more that he can do with the premise.

Brassed Off! is a traditional feel-good motion picture with an element of social commentary thrown in for good measure.

It's rare for homosexuals in mainstream motion pictures to be presented as individuals rather than icons; Love! Valour! Compassion! defies tradition by proffering its characters as real people with believable problems.

One of the most refreshing things about this movie is the manner in which it combines genres in unexpected ways.

Despite being a low-key production, La Promesse speaks volumes about how we treat other human beings and what it means to truly grow up.

Besson may have misfired with The Fifth Element, but at least he does it with flair and a sense of humor.

Travesty.

There are times when Austin Powers drags. It can be difficult to sustain even the best humor for ninety minutes, and this film, for all of the laughs it offers, is far from the best.

Breakdown is the latest in a seemingly endless traffic jam of thrillers that opens strong but finishes abominably.

Not only is it based on a fairly original premise, but the humor exhibits a distinct edge.

Are French films stuffy? At times, yes, and that's one of many reasons why even the most "accessible" French movies are relegated to art cinemas in this country. Irma Vep gleefully defies such facile labeling, however. This is a sly, sexy endeavor that presents its audacious viewpoint with style and intelligence. Irma Vep features some wonderful performances (notably those of Cheung, Leaud, and Richard), that, in concert with its sure direction and smart script, make for a wholly satisfying motion picture.

One of those pleasant movie-going experiences that doesn't offend, excite, or challenge anyone. There are all sorts of likable things about it.