In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with the RT audience score telling the true story. Swordfish is 1 hour 40 minutes of pure entertainment and fun. This movie has great pacing, tons of action, hacking, bank robbing, politics, sex appeal, twists, and the cast is just phenomenal. It reminded me in many ways of Gone in 60 Seconds, and wouldcha know, Dominic Sena directed both of these movies. Congrats Dominic, you’re the ultimate RTV king. Honestly, the more I think about Swordfish, the more I appreciate it. I’m pretty shocked that it was both panned by critics and given a pretty low score in my mind by the audience: 

Swordfish Movie Summary

Logline: A covert counter-terrorist unit called Black Cell, headed by the duplicitous and suave Gabriel Shear, wants the money to help finance their raise-the-stakes vengeance war against international terrorism, but it’s all locked away behind super-encryption.

Actual Logline: John Travolta recruits a hacking-Wolverine to his organization of fast talking, loose moraled, and heavily equipped domestic patriots/terrorists. Oh, and Halle Berry melts your viewing screen.

First let me start with Halle Berry. I grew up watching this movie on TNT. I was in love with Halle Berry, and that was whilst watching the edited version of this film. I didn’t hit puberty until I saw the real rated R version (at about 19). Halle Berry pulls off a top 5 hottest character in a movie in my mind (#1 goes to Jennifer Love Hewitt, in Heartbreakers).  But do you understand how hot you have to be to pull off the short hair cut?? She was rocking the Ed Sheeran look and still bringing the absolute heat.

Anyways back to the movie. It had you rooting for the good guys, rooting for the bad guys, and then flipping and wondering which side was which. It’s funny at times, it’s original, and it keeps you entertained at all times. I probably rewatched in 15x growing up and enjoyed it every time. So I was shocked, shocked I tell you, by the Rotten Tomatoes scores. But per usual it lacked artistic integrity or some other film school nerd jargon. 

Swordfish Best Reviews

I’ve seen this movie described as a techno-thriller a lot. I kept thinking, I don’t remember that much techno in the movie. But it turns out that ‘techno’ is short for technology-thriller? Uhh, pardon? If only there was a way we could shorten technology so that it isn’t another common noun. You know like ‘tech’. Which is what every other industry shortens it too. What is wrong with movie people? Nextly, let me address the clearly misguided comment from our guy Charles here.  John Trovolta a fast fading star? John Trovolta was in Austin Powers Goldmember (briefly) right after this movie, and then a mere 6 years later he stared in Wild Hogs. So I bet you’re feeling pretty stupid right about now Charlie.

I’ve had to read this a few times, and I’m still not sure what it means. Is Geoff saying extended rock guitar solos from the 70s are bad? This is quite a head scratcher because literally the greatest two lengthy guitar solos ever written were from the ’70s. Only made better in live rock concerts. Of course I’m talking about Stairway to Heaven and Freebird. Perhaps rock music never made it up to Canada (did Rush leave and never go back)? That’s the only plausible explanation or maybe he’s saying the glass-smashing in slow motion is awesome. In which case, he is correct and we’re on the same (Jimmy) page. 

Does the fact that I enjoy this movie make me empty-headed? Perhaps, but if a movie is empty but entertaining, I ask you what does a full movie represent? Einstein said that. I won’t argue with Glenn about whether or not I’m empty-headed, weary, or jaded. I will concede all of those points. But I did want to know what ‘to goose’ someone meant.

Listen Glenn, I won’t sit here and have you make fun of me for being ‘goosed’. What I enjoy doing or having done to me in the privacy of my own home is none of your business. 

Swordfish Best Scenes

A lot of the the reviewers called this movie unoriginal and formulaic… which had me scratching my head. I can’t recall any movie that had this type of scene in it:

Maybe it’s because this opening monologue calls out everything they love and a critically acclaimed favorite (Dog Day Afternoon):

Mood and Similar Movies to Swordfish

If you’re looking for a relaxing chill movie night, this isn’t it. It’s a pretty jammed packed movie, that makes for a great rewatch to see what you missed. I would say it’s similar to the Matrix, Enemy of the State, Law Abiding Citizen.

Got other movies that would make for a good Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance or have some input, well reach out!

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with the Rotten Tomatoes audience score telling the true story. In the late 1990s and early 2000’s if there was one thing you could count on, it was Nic Cage. From Face/Off, to Con Air, to National Treasure, to his best movie, The Rock, you just knew Nic Cage was going to bring the heat in whatever action movie role he chose. Gone in Sixty Seconds is a super rewatchable fun action flick.

Gone in 60 Seconds Summary

Logline: A retired master car thief must come back to the industry and steal fifty cars with his crew in one night to save his brother’s life.

Actual Logline: Nic Cage manages to steal 50 cars and your heart, while teaching us all a valuable lesson: don’t trust anyone with an accent.

I really miss the action movies back in the day. They had the formula down. Average guy put in an extraordinary situation, facing off against a bad guy from some foreign country or world, but isn’t American that’s for sure. Add in some car chases, sprinkle in about 5 minutes of a relationship, then have one giant face off to end things and boom you got yourself a blockbuster. Gone in Sixty Seconds followed this formula to a tee, and ended up with $237 million in the box office. It’s a movie you never really get sick of, and just a fun film to watch. That’s what movies are all about, but don’t tell that to the critics below.

Disclaimer – before going any further, I do have to admit the story line is preposterous. I remember watching this movie as a youngster and even then thinking it didn’t really make any sense. Spoilers, but they stole 49.5 cars and basically got paid nothing. The bad guy is upset that his reputation is going to be harmed and is willing to commit murder over that? Seems like a poor business move. But let’s not let things like ‘plot’ and ‘character motives’ get in the way of a good movie.

Gone in Sixty Seconds Reviews

Hey Emily, it’s ‘WHOM’! (Honestly I have no idea if it’s ‘who’ or ‘whom’, I tried looking the rule up for like 20 minutes and still couldn’t figure it out, but I think it’s ‘whom’ and I’m notoriously good/well with grammar). Anyway, to answer your question, the audience for Gone in Sixty Seconds is: correct grammar using, Nic Cage-loving, American muscle driving, Free Bird playing, intelligent cinephiles like myself. So next time don’t ask ‘who this movie is for’, but rather whom or whomst isn’t this movie for? Also, how dare you hijack the real Emily Blunt’s name, she would know better.

Peel away the flashy cars, sharp dressed cast and squealing breaks and there is no movie? Yeah,  we know, that is the movie. Did you watch the trailer? I feel like sometimes critics walk into a movie thinking it’s going to be ‘The English Patient’, but sometimes you just need to watch Sack Lunch and enjoy yourself. Peel away away the terrorists and shootouts from Die Hard and there isn’t much underneath either (well it’d actually just be a Christmas RomCom movie that’d I’d still watch).

Well, well, well if it isn’t my arch nemesis Micky LaSalle. I’ve seen his name pop up a few times now in these Rotten Tomatoes Variance blogs. You’re killing me Mick. Slow this movie down and it’d be boring and people would leave? Wow, what a concept, it’s almost like this ACTION movie was meant to have, you know, a lot of action. It’s not meant to be slow, unlike Mick here. I kid, I kid. Mick and I go way back, and even though we joke around we’re good pals.

Gone in Sixty Seconds Best Scene

This has already been brought up on our top 10 Movie Songs list – but this seen will always stick out to me:

Mood and Similar Movies to Gone in 60 Seconds

Do you like fun action movies, where the gang gets back together? Think the Mission Impossible, The Italian Job, Fast and Furious. If you like those types of popcorn movies, and appreciate a good Nic Cage flick look no further. Also, it shouldn’t have taken this long to mention, but this movie started the Angelina Jolie rocket ship in my opinion. 13 year old me quickly became interested in the ‘bad girl’ after this movie (unfortunately, I didn’t talk to a girl until I was 27).

Got other movies that would make for a good Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance or have some input, well reach out!

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with the Rotten Tomatoes audience score telling the true story. I was pretty shocked to see such a wide variance on this one, I figured at a minimum it’d fall in the 50% range from critics. Law Abiding Citizen is way too good of a movie to get a mere 26% from critics. Once again though critics are wrong. 

Law Abiding Citizen Summary

A family man watches his wife and daughter get murdered in a home invasion. The criminals are lightly punished and this sets Gerard Butler (a man with ‘a very particular set of skills’… Kinda like Taken/Rambo/John Wick/ Gladiator) on a rampage to destroy anyone involved, regardless of their perceived innocence.

There is something primal in all of us, that when we are wronged in anyway we wish we could go full revenge mode. I get this feeling even with the slightest inconvenience, someone cuts me off in traffic, I get a work email after 4pm, or someone beneath my status makes eye contact with me. This movie lives that out but to the highest level. Gerard Butler does basically what we all wish we could do and goes full Rambo/Taken/John Wick/Gladiator and tries to take down everyone. The difference with Law Abiding Citizen is that in most of these revenge movies, every single person is wholly bad or wholly good. You know exactly who to root for and who is the ‘bad guy’. Which turns the movie more into a super hero action flick. But I loved Law Abiding Citizen because there is ambiguity, you’re not exactly sure who you should be rooting for at times, but you also understand why each character is doing what they’re doing. There’s a ton of violence and the motivations and dialogue aren’t artistic, so those two things obviously make this a critics worst nightmare. But if you’re a normal person who wants a fast paced, hardcore thriller, then give this a try.

Rotten Tomatoes Best Reviews

I obviously knew what ‘nihilistic’ meant, I didn’t have to look it up. In laymen terms it mean: “rejecting all religious and moral principles in the belief that life is meaningless.” I never understood why movies all have to have some deeper message or impart some moral guidance. It’s like Josh and Simon walk into every movie expecting it to be a Tony Robbins motivational session and are shocked an dismayed anytime it diverts from that course. They’re the same people that can’t have fun playing GTA. Sometimes it’s fun to run over a pack of innocent bystanders on the sidewalk (in GTA). Can’t we just be challenged and entertained for 2 hours and then go back to our godless and meaningless lives?

The British and Australians really hated this movie it seems. Welcome to America Edward, we like our violence, sadism, and porn. USA! USA! Anyway this was more to talk about the director F. Gary Gray. He’s made a lot of great movies (Friday, Italian Job, Straight Outta Compton and of course Fate of the Furious aka Fast and Furious 8). But does anyone else read his name ‘Gary Gary’ or ‘Gray Gray’ each time they see it? Just me? At first I thought he had a name similar to Bol Bol or Ajou Ajou. But it turns out it’s just two names that are spelled very similar to each other and I have an apparent reading disorder. Also, his first name is Felix. Felix Gray is a badass name, why would he not want to go by that?

Jesus Christ. Sukhdev, it’s make believe. It’s a movie, it’s not real. I won’t lie, after seeing a movie I don’t particularly like, I get upset, peeved, and usually mutter some expletives or write a poorly written blog. But at the end of the day, I know movies are hard to make and most movies aren’t made for me. But Sukhdev is really about that life. The ‘consequences’ in Law Abiding Citizen are pretty much all around death and tortures… so pretty dark to say the people ACTING and making the movie should suffer the same fate. But honestly, I kinda respect this take. If you are a critic and it is your life’s work, you should basically be calling for death after a poorly made movie, so I can hate the game, but I won’t hate the playa.  

I checked out his other reviews to see what I was working with. I was really hoping he’d wish death on the people of any movie he didn’t like, unfortunately it’s just a lot of big words and sentences I didn’t fully understand and this gem:

Nailed it. I couldn’t describe Finding Nemo better myself.

Law Abiding Citizen Best Scene

The face offs between Butler and Jamie Foxx are all great but I think this one is the most memorable especially for someone who is not particularly fond of how the justice system/politics currently operate:

Mood and Similar Movies to Law Abiding Citizen

It’s dark, it’s violent, it’s revenge oriented, maybe you have to be a little sick to like this movie? Guilty. But if you want a darker take on the movies mentioned above: Rambo, Taken, John Wick, Gladiator, and aren’t afraid to root for the bad guy and don’t need your movies to be perfectly moral, then I would definitely recommend this movie. It’s memorable, a good rewatch, and has great pacing/action.

Got other movies that would make for a good Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance or have some input, well reach out!

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with the Rotten Tomatoes audience score telling the true story. Today we’re featuring what I consider to be one of the most underrated movies in the last 20 years: Lucky Number Slevin

Lucky Number Slevin Summary

The classic story of two rival mob bosses, mistaken identities, and different points of view. Violent, dark, humorous at times, well acted, with twists and turns, and an all-star cast featuring Ben Kingsley, Morgan Freeman, Josh Harnett, Lucy Liu and Bruce Willis.

If you go in thinking this is a Quentin Tarantino movie, then you’ll likely be disappointed, but with that being said, this has a lot of Quentin Tarantino vibes. You feel like you’re on a roller coaster at times, but it has great pacing, and different storylines that has the viewer playing catchup. I think smarter, more sophisticated movie viewers (aka critics) may have seen how things would come together, but being smart and sophisticated were never my bag baby.

Rotten Tomatoes Best Reviews

*Looks inward, starts crying*, yikes turns out liking this movie means you were a loser in high school (how did they know)! Not to be super defensive but Matt & Ethan, I’m not the loser you’re both losers! First off, there is nothing I hate more than when a movie tries to be too smart for it’s own good. I hate movies that uses big words, complicated story lines and uses long artsy dialogue pauses. I mean, I was the first to call out Fast and Furious Tokyo Drift for being too pretentious. So I think I have a pretty good barometer on movies that think they’re too cool for school. I think Matt & Ethan are just a bit jealous/defensive and are lashing out, trust me I’ve been there before. 

I could be wrong, but are movies supposed to accomplish something other than being entertaining? I don’t remember the last movie that cured world hunger or stopped an aplomb. I’m just assuming aplomb is some sort of weapon because it looks like the word ‘bomb’ and I never saw it on an SAT flashcard. I’m just using context clues to determine it as such. I did also aplomb my SATs. This is the next level reading skills we bring to the table at the BBC.

I don’t know much of David Mamet’s work, you got me on that one Steve. But I do really like the stereotype that English people overcook vegetables. It’s so specific that I love it. Can’t wait to get in a fight with some Englishman and just drop a bomb/aplomb on them, “Oh yeah, why don’t you go home and overcook some vegetables.” Boom! Mic drop, absolutely burned, just like those vegetables!

This is all you need to know Richard Roeper, one of the GOAT movie critics liked it, case closed. 

Lucky Number Slevin Best Scene

Can’t really use the best scenes without giving away the movie – but here is a cool scene that shows off the first-rate David Mamet-like dialogue (a phrase I’m well aware of and use often).

Mood/Similar Movies to Lucky Number Slevin

Like darker movies without completely linear timelines? Need some abrupt violence in your life? Look no further. I’d put this in the same category as Snatch, The Gentlemen, The Usual Suspects. If you liked those movies and are looking for an under-the-radar movie from the 2000’s give this a try. (Hint: You can also find the full length movie on YouTube for free if you give it a search).

Got some other Rotten Tomatoes Movie variances for us or have some comments, critiques, dictionary links, reach out to us!

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with the Rotten Tomatoes audience score telling the true story. Today we’re taking on one of the biggest variance you’ll ever see: Grandma’s Boy.

Grandma’s Boy Summary

A relatively old (35) video game tester is kicked out of his house and must live with his grandmother and her two elderly roommates. The change in home-life coupled with pressure at his work (from an eccentric robot/prodigy) makes for a classic 2006 comedy. 

Here is the deal if you think farts and fart jokes are funny, then you’ll probably enjoy this movie. If not, avoid this movie and maybe just stick to your New Yorker comic strips or whatever you enjoy from your ivory tower.

Grandma’s Boy is a silly rated-R comedy, with no deep meaning or political message. It’s just a comedy for comedy sake. It does give a nice hat tip to stoners and video game players, which has helped give it a cult following. It has all of the usual Adam Sandler character’s in it (it’s produced by Happy Madison), and is just a good time.  Cool to see a young Jonah Hill in one of his first movie roles. It also highlights one of my favorite comedians in Nick Swardson, who also helped write the movie (this is one of my favorite standup stories):

Rotten Tomatoes Best Reviews

No idea why Joshua is reviewing the movie 9 years later (although I’m doing the same thing 16 years later), but Josh, c’mon. It’s right in front of you. “The sex, fart, and pot jokes CUM* so fast and furious…” This guy knows how to use an oxford comma, but misses an easy comedy layup. Also, not sure what Dom Toretto has to do with this movie, but you should be waiving a checkered flag for him not a white one.

As someone originally from Boston, an area which I believe has the best sense of humor, I’ll translate what Chelsea is saying. For context, in the early 2000’s, “weapons of mass destruction (WMDs)” were all the rage. The US and NATO invaded Iraq in a “pre-emptive” attack to find Iraq’s WMDs. What Chelsea, (I can’t read her name without saying Chell-see-a, did I mention I’m an idiot?) is saying here is, “Grandma’s Boy isn’t just a movie, it’s a reason to pre-emptively invade a foreign land. And by foreign land, I mean a movie theatre. Also, just like Iraq, there won’t be actual WMDs at the movie theatre.” So really she is in support of this movie. Funny how words can mean such different things only a couple decades later.

Another one from Boston, damnit. I don’t really know how to spin this. In all seriousness, most movies aimed at younger college audiences are about them ‘rebelling’ against the older generation aka ‘the man’. Grandma’s Boy not only includes older actors (I wouldn’t call them ‘elderly’ this isn’t 2006 anymore Ty), it treats them with reverence. They’re in on the jokes, not the butt of the jokes. Even Bill Burr would be disappointed in his brother/cousin here (I hope they aren’t related).  

Grandma’s Boy Best Scene

My favorite scene is really just the whole house party scene. It’s a long feel-good scene, that pretty much all the characters are a part of. It gives off Waiting or Super Bad *(one of the only comedies properly rated) party vibes. It’s a party you wish you could be at. This is just a short clip from it:

Mood/Similar Movies to Grandma’s Boy

You need a light hearted movie to give you a laugh? Partaking in the devils lettuce? This is a go to and one that surprisingly still holds up today. Has Harold & Kumar, Waiting, Super Trooper vibes. Just a goofy R-Rated comedy that’ll cheer you up.

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with audience score telling the true story. Today we’re talking new Movie: The Gray Man

The Gray Man Summary

While on a mission, Super assassin Court Gentry Aka ‘Sierra Six’, is handed a mysterious encrypted drive. Higher ups in the government are willing to kill Court and anyone that gets in their way to keep the details on the drive hidden. Court must survive an onslaught of attacks in order to track down his enemies and discover the drives importance.

We read and did an episode on The Gray Man and similar to The Terminal List it has a special place in our heart. Is it very action heavy with little plot? Maybe. Do the ‘bad guys’ have the accuracy of a storm trooper and intelligence of a non-BBC listener? Probably. Are the action scenes a bit over the top and unrealistic? No, I believe Court would pull off everything that happened in the movie.

Here is the thing: we can bring these questions up because we read the book, we’re like good friends raggin’ on each other. We’re allowed to point these things out. But in all honesty it’s a fun, entertaining, action flick. It’s in the same vain as a John Wick. The movie is a bit different from the book (at least the first one), but all the key elements are still there: it’s fast paced and has some amazing James Bond type escapes. If action isn’t your thing you can still appreciate Ana de Armas, who seems to be in everything now, and I for one am not not not mad about it. The only question I had after watching was what is the difference between ‘grey’ and ‘gray’? Still have no idea, and as a (young) man with a sophisticated dusting of grey/gray hair I would like someone to explain to me how to spell that word.

Rotten Tomatoes Best Reviews

I’m not sure what a ‘catena’ is, I think Frank may have misspelled ‘cantina’.  Maybe he was making some connection to the Mos Eisley Star Wars Cantina, which is objectively awesome. I assume the ‘bloated brain-dead’ reference is to ‘Greedo’ after Hon Solo clearly shot first and took care of business. Anyway, I think were all on the same page here, Star Wars is amazing.

To quote my guy Winny Churchill – ‘the era of half-measures is coming to its close” or if you’re more of a history buff take it from Ron Swanson, “Never half-ass two things, whole ass one thing”. This is a long way of saying, The Gray Man is a prolific action movie, were you hoping for less explosions, less fireworks and less shooting? Of course not. Leave everything on the field, go 110%, go big or go home. And that is certainly what The Gray Man did, no point in criticizing a spade for being a spade. 

Look at Johnny, this high-browed, pinky-out coffee drinker has a personal barista? No offense here Johnny, but I think this movie was made for people that can’t afford to hire someone just to make them coffee. This movie is for people that have some grit, the guy/girl who goes to Dunkin’s and orders a ‘lahge coffee 3 creams and 3 sugahs’. Someone that even knows the word ‘barista’ or claims to posses one just wouldn’t understand this movie, I hope they get your name wrong next time Johnnie. (Real talk though am I crazy do people actually say they have a barista like like they have a barber?)

The Gray Man Best Scene

Ton of cool scenes in this movie – I actually think the scene right before this one of him escaping may be the best, but this right here encompasses what you’re getting into. 

Mood/Similar Movies to The Gray Man

This is a great popcorn movie. I think it would have had a lot more success if it came out in theatres first as it was really made to be seen on the big screen. Probably more guy-friendly but still a fun watch and similar to a John Wick or James Bond. Reportedly a sequel(s) is/are already in the works, so this is a series we’ll be seeing more of soon.

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films and shows that are both underrated and panned by critics, with audience score telling the true story. Today we’re talking a more recent TV Show (and book we read): The Terminal List

Summary

All-around stud James Reece (Chris Pratt), leader of SEAL team 7, is ambushed overseas and sees platoon get wiped out. Barely surviving, he returns home to find the attacks on him and his loved ones have only just begun. The 8 episode series follow Reece as he tracks down those responsible for trying to kill him and his loved ones.

Like action? Like thrillers? Like revenge? Look no further. The Terminal List is a binge-worthy non-stop action series. It’s kinda like the Borne Identity and Taken had a love child, but with more tomahawks and torture. The story isn’t too complex, but it’s enough to keep you watching every new episode just to see who James Reece will cross off his list next. Chris Pratt takes on a pretty serious role, but like James Reece with a sniper at the top of a mountain, he doesn’t miss, and absolute dream boat of a man Timmy Riggins aka Taylor Kitsch is in it as well. What else do you need? Naturally this combination makes for one of the biggest variance’s we’ve seen so far.

Best Reviews

First off Ben, if you read the book (when in doubt always one-up people by saying you read the book), you’d know that James Reece is a man’s man. James Reece and I are similar in that way. He likes his cars fast (I drive a 2011 Nissan Sentra, not to brag), his whiskeys neat (exactly the way I take my daiquiris) and he certainly like his steaks rare (I prefer medium if we’re being honest). Ben’s review compares the show to a big steak cooked rare (aka perfectly) over a 4th of July weekend… and that’s bad? 

Wait, I’m confused is this a negative review? Pretty sure Rebecca wrote a way better description of the show than I ever could. But is she saying that corporate and government corruption are part of some American fantasy, that it is only real in movies? That in the ‘real’ world the American government and corporations are incorruptible, smart, and constantly doing what is best for it’s populace? Guessing she has a lot of issues with the Batman movies, the unbelievable parts being all the corruption. Maybe I’m being negative, maybe our government and our corporations are great and this show is a fantasy of mine but then again:  

This is another review that I don’t really think is that bad. Who amongst us hasn’t been told you’ve ‘overstayed your welcome’ especially by your friends or family.  Or that dating you “provides few moments of memorable excitement”.  Everyone has experienced that multiple times right? Right you guys…? 

Best Scene

SPOILER – if you haven’t seen the series yet, I wouldn’t watch this cause it’s an awesome scene (one that is also depicted quite gruesomely, did we mention we read this book?)

Movie Mood and Similar Movies/Show

Angry and need to see some warranted revenge? Or need a show to binge on a plane ride or one that’s easy to jump right into, The Terminal List checks those boxes. I would say it’s probably more of a guys show but there are certainly thriller aspects that I think everyone will enjoy (and did I mention Timmy Riggins?) If you like John Wick, Bourne Identity, Taken or any of the classic old action movies you’ll likely enjoy this.

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with audience score telling the true story. Today we’re talking: The Replacements

Summary

The Washington Sentinels Football team goes on strike. The Sentinels must rely on veteran coach Jimmy McGinty and a group of overlooked/oddball replacement players, including down-on-his-luck QB Shane Falco (Keanu Reeves).

Do you take yourself too seriously? Do you want everything to be set in the world of realism. If so, it’s probably best to avoid this movie. This movie is half part Rudy half part Naked Gun. Very similar to Dodgeball, but set in the world of football. Keanu and Gene Hackman are both amazing as expected and play the movie pretty straight up, which provides the Rudy-effect. The side characters make the movie though. Side note – Orlando Jones may be the best actor of all time, watch him in this and watch him in Drumline, and tell me he is not under appreciated. Dude is ridiculously funny and can pull off drama!  Nice touch having John Madden and Pat Summerall in the movie as well (rest in peace to two legends).

Best Reviews

James, the role of Shane Falco is to bring together his rag-tag group of teammates not to be the comedic relief. You ever watch a sports movie before? Don’t you ever take Shane Falco’s (or Keanu’s) name in vain. They don’t sell jerseys for QBs because they deliver jokes, they sell them for guys that can deliver tight spirals on a 7-route and overcome a Sugar Bowl blowout.

Another James? That’s pretty unoriginal. Are we now basing comedic sports movies on originality? Uno-reverse card on you, by saying it’s unoriginal, like many of the other critics, you’re actually the one being unoriginal. There isn’t a single bone of originality in your entire 110-word review.

I’m going to chalk this one up to David not having any professional teams to root for. Yes, I know this review was written in 2000 and the Chargers moved in 2017, but this is what happens when you don’t have an NFL team in your city. Frankly, the first sentence was a little over my head, he’s throwing too many big words at me, because I don’t understand them I’m gonna take them as disrespect. But watcha mouth and keep Gene Hackman and Keanu out of it.

This may be the most offensive take. You can say a lot of things about The Replacements but how dare you say it has recycled heart. Sounds like Martel talking. This movie had heart… Miles and miles of heart.

Best Scene

Honestly, the “miles and miles of heart” from above is probably favorite but I just love when the the team starts coming together:

Movie Mood and Similar Movies

Looking for an uplifting, silly, feel-good sports movie? Or are you just missing football, and need your fix? Look no further. This is a great weekend, beer in-hand movie, or a great background movie. You can pretty much pick it up from whenever and you aren’t too far away from a classic scene. Like I said above, if you liked Dodgeball, this is pretty similar but underrated.

Check it out and let us know if you thought it was good or if the James’ were right.

In our Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance section we talk about films that are both underrated and panned by critics, with audience score telling the true story. Today we’re talking Equilibrium:

Equilibrium Summary

In an oppressive future where all forms of feeling are illegal, a man in charge of enforcing the law rises to overthrow the system and state.

Similar in many ways to A Brave New World as one of our astute listeners (Alex) pointed out, but with a lot more action. If you like dystopian movies with a matrix vibe than this movie is for you. Christian Bale absolutely crushes it not surprisingly, this movie predates Batman, but you can see why he was an obvious choice after watching him lead in this movie. The only negatives are really the special effects which are a bit dated now, but aren’t relied on like some movies of this era (*cough* the Star Wars Prequels).

Equilibrium Best Reviews

Hey Mick – it’s called art. Super-violent? Really? More like Mick La Sally, am I right? Am I right?

This one seems like a personal attack. I would criticize this one more if I had any idea what ‘inert’ meant.  

Alright, this one was at least clever. Boneheadian? Sounds like a great Friday night to me.

Can always count on my guy Roger Ebert to come correct and give a rightfully ‘fresh’ score. For anyone that doesn’t like this movie, maybe it’s just that you support totalitarian systems?

Equilibrium Best Scene

There is a lot of good scenes but this may be the best and doesn’t give the movie away too much – gotta protect dogs at all cost.

Mood and Movies Similar to Equilibrium

Your angry with your boss or society and need to see a corrupt government overthrown or a couple of smug guys taken down a few pegs? Fire this movie up. A great Monday/Tuesday night gritty movie to help push you through the week. Same tone as the Matrix, with some John Wick vibes thrown in there. Kurt Wimmer wrote and directed this movie, also wrote Law Abiding Citizen which is future candidate Rotten Tomatoes Movie Variance.

Check it out and let us know if you thought it was good or if the critics/Mick LaSalle was right.

As a self-proclaimed expert and lover of Romantic Comedies (“romcoms” if you’re cool), I could not let a recent article on the Ringer go by without a response. A few things to cover before I go into the rankings.

I’m only going to rank 5, because 50 seems like a lot of work and the vast majority of romcoms are in the solid to good range. I don’t have the stamina or heart to argue why 27 Dresses should be ahead of 13 Going on 30. They are both good movies that I’m sure I’d enjoy on rewatch, but don’t belong in the top 5 or have much in the way of discernable ranking difference.

Next, we need some clear rules on what a romcom is, and how they are being ranked. This is obviously subjective (read: the only accurate and definite list) but there needs to be a standard on why/how they are ranked:

A. The movie must be PG-13 or under. Rated R movies are, comedies, they aren’t romcoms, even if they follow the traditional formula. If you asked someone the genre of Knocked Up, There’s Something About Mary or Forgetting Sarah Marshall, 100% of people would say comedy. It’s unfair to traditional romcoms to go against these juggernauts that have the benefit of being more provocative and vulgar with the R rating. There are certainly exceptions to the rule (a movie like I Want You Back is a clear romcom and likely could have gone without the R rating), but this make things easier and standardized.

B. Rewatchability is key – Romcoms pretty much have the exact same formula, there’s a certain comfort in that. What makes a good romcom is no matter how many times you’ve seen it or where your starting point is, you want to continue watching it. The ups, the downs, the laughs along the way, are like a favorite homecooked meal, there’s something comforting in the predictability of it all. 

C. The Turning Point/Reveal must be great – This is probably more a rule I just believe in, but the turning point must be a perfect combination, of funny and sad. One second you’re laughing the next second you’re crying. A romcom needs to nail this to get on my top 5 list.

On to the list…

5. This Means War

You’ll probably not find this movie on any other list. It has a pretty bad Rotten Tomatoes score (26% by critiques) and the back drop is more of an action movie. However, it’s a clear romcom with the central focus and plot being around the love triangle.  It has great acting, its funny, it’s cute, and the characters are likeable and easy on the eyes. It does star Buddy Book Club’s arch nemesis Reese Witherspoon (listen to our The Last Thing He Told Me episode to understand why), but we’ll give her a pass for this one.

Turning Point/Reveal Rating: B+ 

4. Always Be My Maybe

Another sleeper movie that never got the publicity it deserved. Netflix has released a lot of romcoms, and a lot of duds. Unfortunately, I think this one kind of got ignored because of that.  Big name studio actors (see the other four on this list) usually carry Romcoms.  Ali Wong and Randall Park are two great comedic actors but have never been household names like Will Smith or Reese Witherspoon, but they crushed this movie. Great chemistry, comedic timing, and two characters you rooted for. Check this one out if you haven’t seen it.

Turning Point/Reveal Rating: A- (This probably isn’t the actual reveal but it’s one of the funniest romcom scenes out there):

3. Crazy, Stupid, Love

Most romcoms don’t have a lot of backbone but this both seems both like a real story and still has all the classic elements of a romcom. Every character seems to actually have a story (instead of having the 2-3 main characters with a few side characters that are just there for comic relief/exposition), and every character seems to be grounded in reality. Also, usually kids suck in movies, but they were solid in this. On top of the well-written story, it’s cast perfectly and super rewatachable.

Turning Point/Reveal Rating: A+ Unreal reveal and perfect mix of comedy and ultimately disappointment

2. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

When I think of a pure romcom this is the movie I think of. I’ve probably seen it a hundred times on TV, as it was constantly on and so easy to lose a couple (or 10…pun intended) hours watching. Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson’s chemistry is unmatched. It’s got all the elements you want, it’s perfectly paced and one of the most rewatchable movies you can think of. Matthew McConaughey does a much better job of telling you why it worked here so give it a listen instead. Also, his book is great, but I was disappointed he didn’t dedicate 100 pages to this movie (checkout our podcast on it).

Turning Point/Reveal Rating: A – The build up to this point is so good and it never disappoints, funny and sad all in one

1. Hitch

I know Will Smith is getting a lot of heat recently, but this movie is the romcom GOAT. Great premise, great execution, a ton of memorable funny scenes. Shout out to Kevin James in this, very funny. Hitch puts you on a constant emotional roller coaster. There are none of the traditional cringy romantic scenes or scenes that were slow/didn’t work. It’s funny, real and it’s an automatic rewatch anytime it’s on. Watch these two clips and tell me it’s not #1:

Turning Point/Reveal Rating: A+ I tear up every time watching this

Bonus Clip because it’s hilarious (the original Will Smith Slap):

Agree? Disagree? Let us know!