War of the Worlds
Despite Tom Cruise's lunacy, "War of the Worlds" made more than $230 million at the box office. Whether it was because of Cruise's star power or director Steven Spielberg remaking a sci-fi classic is up for debate.Lead movie reviewer Daniel Goldberg writes: "Director Spielberg has chosen his remake well. Although most moviegoers probably haven't read the original novel, they are at least familiar with the basic plot about a well- planned alien invasion threatening to exterminate humankind. Throw in Cruise and a handful of killer robots and you've got yourself a movie. 'War of the Worlds' quickly dispenses with the insight and embraces its big, death ray-shooting robot soul. Make no mistake: this isn't 'Independence Day.' Spielberg's movie is scarier." $30
The Polar Express
My memories of "The Polar Express" are from a fifth-grade reading session involving hot chocolate and blankets. There was no creepy animation involved. Though I wish my memories had never been tainted, I understand that this all-digital flick may provide a whole new set of memories for a new generation. While the memories may not include marshmallows they will be in 3-D. $30
The Honeymooners
Although Cedric the Entertainer and Mike Epps have the comedic talent to take over the roles of Ralph Kramden and Ed Norton, their abilities are not enough to make a Nick-at-Nite classic into a two-hour film. Sitcoms last half an hour for a reason. $30
Ana's pick: 9 Songs
Director Michael Winterbottom ("24 Hour Party People" and "Welcome to Sarajevo") made this movie in response to the lack of sex in movies, so you can guess that "9 Songs" contains several extremely explicit scenes. Winterbottom's interpretation of a love story follows a young couple in London as they watch live performances from bands like Franz Ferdinand, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Dandy Warhols. While some people may think this movie is more of a porno than art house flick, it's an interesting look at the importance of the physical aspect of a relationship. $25
Ana Parra can be reached at 298-3766.