Bears (Disneynature) (2014) - 7 stars out of 10

Bears (Disneynature) (2014) - 7 stars out of 10

“Bears” is an interesting story that reveals the hardships faced by bear cubs in their first year.  It is amazing that this film is not scripted as the mother Sky faces off against aggressive male bears and an intimidating grey wolf.  Set against a beautiful and treacherous Alaskan landscape, these bears must battle to survive the weather and the wild.  Even if the story doesn't do much for you, the cubs are adorable.  This film is superior to scripted films like “Milo and Otis” because, rather than film the animals and make up a story around the footage, “Bears” shows a real journey.  John C. Reilly’s narration is entertaining and will make this a great film for kids, but it can be a bit over the top for adults.  Except for the part where the clam gets stuck on Scout’s claw.  That was hilarious.  The story even has a cute moral at the end.  “Bears” isn't my favorite documentary, but it is a cute story that I will look forward to watching with my children someday.

 [Pictured: Sky with Scout and Amber]

Double Jeopardy (1999) - 9 stars out of 10

Double Jeopardy (1999) - 9 stars out of 10

“Double Jeopardy” is completely unpredictable.  While the legal accuracy is questionable, the concept is awesome.  A few jaw-dropping twists turn this into an amazing revenge flick.  The plot cleverly places the characters into several unique settings such as New Orleans and the state of Washington.  These destinations emphasize the country-wide chase between the characters.  The acting is excellent, particularly Ashley Judd in her finest role.  The combination of her emotions and B.A. disposition will have you rooting for her from the start, even if she does break all sorts of laws and could be seen as a bad guy for most of the film.  She is perfectly contrasted by the tough cop attitude of Tommy Lee Jones.  The tension of the film rises at a steady pace, seemingly reaching its peak in the graveyard but saving even more for the very end.  The critics blasted this film but I find it to be a high-quality thriller with an unpredictable plot and high tension from start to finish.
The answer is: You aren’t going to want to wait to see this mind-blowing plot that will keep you guessing until the very end.
And the question is: How long will you put off seeing “Double Jeopardy”?

[Pictured; Greatest Jeopardy moment ever]

Draft Day - 8 stars out of 10

Draft Day - 8 stars out of 10

“Draft Day” seems like the NFL’s response to “Moneyball.”  Football fans are going to love this behind-the-scenes look at the draft as it explores drafting strategy and front office politics.  It does not have any football action but is riveting as personalities collide over the first overall draft pick.  The story is strong in its inclusion of several different NFL teams, broadcasters, and the theme that teams are selecting a three-dimensional person and not just a name on a sheet of paper.  It feels like the inclusion of a love story and family drama was partially geared toward bringing in a non-football audience, but I can’t see that crowd enjoying the film.  Fortunately for the filmmakers, football has a huge following in this country so the film will appeal to the majority of theatergoers.  While the love story may seem unnecessary at points, I think that it is critical in developing the depth of Sonny Weaver.  His humanity keeps him from being a business-class robot and emphasizes the difficulty of his decisions.  Kevin Costner is incredible in this role, developing chemistry with every other actor as their characters clash in emotional exchanges.  Denis Leary was the perfect selection for the football coach in looks, voice, and attitude.  Frank Langella made more of his role as the owner than most actors could have, Jennifer Garner is cute and spunky as always, and each of the draft nominees cleverly fit a stereotype so that they represented a type of player instead of an actual person.  Chadwick Boseman steals the spotlight again and is on his way to being the next big thing.  I cannot find fault in the storyline, script, or casting.  It is amazing that this type of story can have so many unexpected twists.  The split screen style supports the plot and avoids being overused.  “Draft Day” is simply a great film as it blurs the line between fictional characters and the real NFL to the point that you will question whether this is a movie or a documentary. 

[Pictured: Split screen style with Costner and Boseman]