Curt’s Corner is a periodic movie review written by Curt Burbach of Clackamas, Oregon.

I have recently seen the following movies in the theater:

V for Vendetta

This film carries a blend of many of the great characters of the past – all at the same time. Its part Phantom of the Opera, part Zorro, part Robin Hood, and even part Batman. It’s set in the near future, in a society that has degraded as a result of the social situations that we currently face. Natalie Portman plays the female lead and is wonderful - definitely an achievement on her resume. At age 24, I see her becoming a hugely, sought after, sexy, starlet. Hugo Weaving plays the lead role of “V” and I think one should know that before viewing the film, to prevent missing any of his dialogs. He wears a mask, and if you spend your attention trying to figure out where you know his voice from, then you’ll miss some of his wonderful, articulate rhetoric that V loves to share with others. Hugo Weaving is best known for his roles in the two trilogies – Lord of the Rings and Matrix. And now, the role for which he (for the time being) will be best remembered is one in which his face is covered. This story is very well written and was a joy to watch. The social relevance incorporated into the script reminds us to look carefully at our future. I give this unique film three bones out of four for being good.

Inside Man

What a cool movie! It sports an all-star cast of wonderful actors and is directed by Spike Lee. This film has mystery, suspense and intrigue. And, it’s even a little bit humorous with a slight touch of the police detective dramas of the 1940’s. Writer Russell Gewirtz weaves a very interesting and entertaining plot that left me feeling good about going to the movies, as I couldn’t wait to go see another. Clive Owen, Denzel Washington, Jodie Foster, Willem Defoe and Christopher Plummer all lend very good performances but nothing award winning. It was the writing, and possibly the directing that will make this film a success. The music was also superb as I pretty much suspect an award nomination of one kind or another for the sound-track. I’m happy to give it three bones for being a good movie.

16 Blocks

There’s really nothing special about this movie. It’s just another Bruce Willis film with good guys and bad guys, lots of gunshots, and a victory at the end. The only really positive quality that stands out, even just a little, is the morale message played out at the end. Overall, I give it 1 ½ bones for being below average.

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

North Country

Charlize Theron plays a very attractive woman who does her best at working in a male-dominated environment at a nearby mine in Minnesota back in the late ‘80’s. This script is based on true story as it leads to a landmark sexual harassment lawsuit that impacted the entire country – for the better. Ms. Theron earned herself an Oscar nomination for her performance. I give the film 2 ½ bones for being above average.

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