Saturday Afternoon at the Movies

My internet friends CJ and Kathy are part of this meme where you post your all time favorite films.   I'm not sure I have more than about FOUR favorite films, but I have films I have seen that I can share.  Some I've even seen more than once!  However, unlike CJ, who says the meme cites there is no need to explain why you like the film, I prefer the way my internet friend Birgit reviews films.   They are often hilarious, many times irreverent, but always in a polite and kind way.  Her synopses are not to be missed. If you aren't familiar with her movie reviews, please check out her blog.

One thing you should know about my choice is you won't find any "chick flicks" here and any romance is simply a side effect of the major overall film.   I realize some of you took exception to the movie I reviewed last week and considered it a "chick flick."  I promise, there will be no question this week as I review

the Bone Collector.

Don't get me wrong, I am NOT a fan of Angelina Jolie.  I don't care for her looks or her acting.  The fact that she's the protagonist and heroine doesn't diminish the fact she is bland and, at times almost robotic.  There is little charisma between her and her co-star.  It's been called a "crime thriller" and received mixed to negative reviews, which may coincide with my negative feelings for Jolie.  For some reason, I feel she was woefully miscast in this film.

The Bone Collector (1999) is loosely based on the book of the same name written by Jeffery Deavers.  Unfortunately, if you are watching carefully, you know who the serial killer is in the very beginning.

Jolie is a rookie cop who found a clue and has chosen to shut down a rail line to preserve it.  Soon, Denzel Washington, who is brilliant and the saving grace of this film, teams up with Jolie from his quadriplegic bed.  Although this is considered a thriller, I found it rather formulaic.  If you are looking for action, the film has it in spades.  The budget was spent on helicopters, gory effects, and New York City streets filled with cop cars.  The only saving grace was the charisma oozing from Washington.

The reason I chose this film was because I caught flack last week for my poor choice of what some thought was a "chick flick."   At least you can admit, this is on the opposite end of the spectrum.  Love it or hate it, it's my choice for Saturday Afternoon at the Movies.  It's on cable TV all the time, and you shouldn't have trouble finding it.  I think you can watch it free on the internet, too.

There will be no Saturday movie next week because it's the end of the month and I have art I need to finish and my monthly calendar to share. However, I'll be back on the 7th with a hopefully wonderful film for your enjoyment.