Curt’s Corner is a periodic movie review written by Curt Burbach of Mesa, Arizona.

Children of Men

(Release Date: Jan 5^th, 2007)

One of the really great things that I’ve always liked about the 1960’s was the vast assortment of futuristic films that were released during that time. Today, a futuristic sci-fi movie consists of space travel, aliens and some sort of advanced weaponry. I miss the kind of story that takes place about 20-30 years in the future and employs just a reasonable amount of advanced technology. Then throw in a chaotic society and you have a 60’s classic!

Universal’s Children of Men is just such a film. It takes place in London during the year 2027. The human race is infertile and society is in shambles. But, there’s still hope. Clive Owen stars in this wonderful blend of a deteriorating world with just the right amount of advanced gadgetry. The attention to detail was fantastic. And, the realism was superb! The filming, special effects and editing was first rate. There is one particular scene that is completely unbelievable. I don’t know how they did it.

Julianne Moore and Michael Caine (I still, really much like him) co-star in this very well acted film. The story would make an outstanding book, if it hasn’t already. I reward it with 3 ½ bones out of four for being very good.

 Freedom Writers

(Release Date: Jan 5^th, 2007)

 This is yet another true story for the holiday season. Two-time Oscar winner Hilary swank stars as a brand new teacher assigned to one of the most gang-ridden, violent high schools outside L.A. right after the Rodney King riots (circa 1994). Her intent is to reach these kids and help them develop some sort of meaning in their lives.

It turned out to be a pretty interesting story - emotionally charged, full of good life lessons and real-world challenges. It sounds like a story we’ve all heard before, but since it’s true, and considering the severity of the situation, the depth of her impact on these kids, and the continuing result of her actions, I think this is an important film for everyone to watch (especially young kids).

Yeah, this is a feel good movie. But if you’re going to march down that path, then this is how you do it. I give it three bones for being good.

 Dreamgirls

(Release Date: Dec 15^th, 2006)

This is the silver screen version of a very successful and long running Broadway musical of the same name. So be advised, this is very much the musical. It nearly resembles an opera. But, that’s Okay because it’s executed pretty darn well. The singing, song-writing and music are superb. And, there’s plenty of it. The story is a very loose parallel to Diana Ross and the Supremes, as it depicts the rise of a 1960’s black female singing act and all the key individuals affiliated with them.

Dreamgirls has recently won the Golden Globe Award for best musical or comedy feature film. It stars Oscar winner Jamie Foxx, Danny Glover and Beyonce Knowles while employing her outstanding singing talents.

Eddie Murphy won the Golden Globe Award for his acting performance in a supporting role. And it’s easy to see why. He did a great job. I always enjoy seeing a comedic actor enjoy great success while performing in a dramatic role. Once again, I’m reminded of Robin Williams, who won his Oscar in Good Will Hunting, and played a wonderful villain in Insomnia. I look forward to seeing more of Eddie Murphy in these kinds of roles, and I hope he can finally step away from the usual silly, corny roles.

Another wonderful performance was turned in by newcomer Jennifer Hudson, who also won a Golden Globe Award for her acting performance in a supporting role. Jennifer was previously known as a finalist in the 2004 American Idol competition. It was a role of a lifetime, and she nailed it. She stands to win an Oscar for her very first performance in a feature film. However, I believe she belongs on Broadway where she can show off her voice, and not in front of an annoying camera. I’m sure she will have a long and successful career. Good luck to her.

This was a great film, filled with great entertainment. The acting performances, singing performances, music and story line were an extreme pleasure to watch. I look forward to listening to the soundtrack. And, I wouldn’t be surprised if it wins Oscars for best picture in 2006, for Eddie Murphy, and for Jennifer Hudson respectively. I give it four bones.

*** (As seen on DVD) ***

An Inconvenient Truth

(Release Date: May 24^th, 2006)

This is a very informative documentary presented by former Vice-President Al Gore. I didn’t realize that he has such a strong passion for this topic. It’s primarily about global warning, the indicators we see today, the ramifications if ignored, and the step that we can take. This is a subject that Gore has been tracking ever since his college professor shared some statistical analysis with him in 1968. He likes to refer to this presentation as his slide show and has been presenting it all over the world for several years. I will not rate this film in my standard way because it’s an educational work, not a piece of entertainment or artwork. But, I will say this – it’s very good and everyone should watch it.

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