Matrix creators Larry and Andy Wachowski’s racing film has amazement aplenty for eyes and ears. But the pure exhilaration is impeded by cartoon morality.

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Posted in Movies, Reviews, Speed Racer •

Bruce Boxleitner has landed a top-secret recurring role on NBC’s Heroes, TV Guide claims.

Apparently, his role was originally going to be modeled after Senator John McCain. The character has since been reconceived and is expected to be sharing scenes with a female series regular. Followers of sci-fi television, of course, will recognize Boxleitner from his leading role on the epic Babylon 5.

The site adds that although the show is introducing some new faces next season, the primary focus will remain “on the core characters from the pilot.” Heroes returns on air for its third season on September 15.

Discuss Heroes on the X-Boards

Posted in Heroes, Television •

Esai Morales (Jericho) has won a lead role in Caprica, the two-hour pilot to a planet-bound Battlestar Galactica prequel series.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Morales will play lawyer Joseph Adama, the father of one day Galactica commander William Adama (played on Battlestar by Edward James Olmos). Joseph is described as a deeply passionate man with a strong sense of justice — and someone you wouldn’t want as your enemy.

Paula Malcomson was previously cast as a surgeon who works as a double agent.

Discuss Caprica on the X-Boards

Posted in Battlestar Galactica, Television •

There is more to fighting than putting another man down. There is respect, discipline, and – above all – honor. That’s the message of writer and director David Mamet in “Redbelt.” It is a martial arts film without fists flying and feet kicking. It’s a martial arts film with brains.

“Redbelt” tells the story of Mike Terry (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a young man who runs his own jiu-jitsu studio with his wife. He teaches his students the art of self defense as well as the importance of honor in life. One fateful night opens new doors and eventually sends things downhill for Terry.

The importance of honor is evident all throughout the film. It is an extremely well crafted film aside from some idiosyncratic dialogue. The films is effective in it’s delievery of it’s message thanks to a powerful performance by Ejiofor.

Posted in Movies, Reviews •

Comedy is funnier with compassion for the characters. Thankfully, after such a long drought of ‘comedy’ films, along comes Judd Apatow and his crew. Together, they put heart into their comedy, allowing a much more enjoyable feature. Forgetting Sarah Marshall is another one to add to their list of many successes.

Jason Segel plays Peter Bretter, a music composer for a hit TV show in which his former girlfriend was the star of (keyword ‘former’). She has recently dumped him, sending him into a deep depression. So he goes to Hawaii, why not, hoping to escape from her lingering memory. And just who happens to be there taking a vacation with her new boyfriend?

Segel, along with brilliantly playing Peter, also wrote the script. His writing is emotionally driven and characters (often caricatures) are hilariously depicted. Honorable mention also goes out to Russell Brand who steals the limelight as the new boyfriend.

Posted in Movies, Reviews •