D.C. MOVIE GUYS

Movies in 2007 provide plenty of laughs at the expense of unintended pregnancy. June’s “Knocked Up” from Judd Apatow finds humor in the pregnancy resulting from a one night stand. December’s “Juno” brings even more fun to a situation seemingly unsuited for humor, but perhaps in most need of it, unwanted teenage pregnancy. “Juno” from first time screenwriter Diablo Cody under Jason Reitman’s (”Thank You for Smoking”) direction is hilarious and heart-warming.

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The world of filmmaker Tim Burton is a dark and unusual one. From “Beetle Juice” to “Edward Scissorhands,” from “Batman Returns” to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Burton has taken viewers of all ages on wildly imaginative journeys that have been both captivating and disturbing. Now he has turned his attention towards the most audacious creation of musical theatre genius Stephen Sondheim. “Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” isn’t a literal adaptation of Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s work of dark genius, but it has wicked pleasures of its own. (more…)

“Charlie Wilson’s War” is one of the best films I’ve ever seen about American politics.  Based on the non-fiction best seller by the late George Crile, this intelligent and witty film offers a veritable banquet of food for thought as well as plenty of entertainment.  Tom Hanks’ subtle lead performance is one of the movie’s many assets. (more…)

Will Smith has been a reliable money maker at the box office since the earliest days of his career.  He has also displayed real and rare skill and talent as an actor, despite the fact that his only pre-movie training grounds were his network television situation comedy, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and his rap music videos. (more…)