Well, let me tell you (or rather, implore in you) that this huge cast of movie stars was the only good thing this film has to offer. Too harsh? Well, unless it was Lonergan’s goal to create a movie which analyzes the depths of my personal agony, I’d say this was one big miss. Margaret, which centers on Lisa Cohen (Anna Paquin), a teenage girl living in New York City, as she deals with the emotional repercussions after accidentally helping cause a bus accident that killed one pedestrian (Allison Janney), was a two and a half-hour quest of emotional pain, depression and solitude on the viewer’s part.

How so? Well, to start, the movie was incredibly unfocused. In the New York Times Movie Review of the same film, A.O. Scott claims that despite the actual filming of Margaret taking place in 2005 (made especially clear by Matt Damon’s svelte figure), editing problems were the cause of the six-year release delay. And, proving that there is a first time for everything, I one-hundred percent agree with Scott when he claims that these editing issues were not solved even six years later. The movie so eagerly jumps from tangental plot point to its next tangental plot point that at the end of the movie when it has hit so many unnecessary things, it prompted chuckles of disbelief from the audience, as if we were all harmoniously thinking, “Okay, what now?”

Moreover, while Lonergan was praised in 2000 for creating such believably complex characters in You Can Count on Me, the multi-dimensions of these previous characters did not seem to carry over into this film. Rather, these characters– all of these characters– were so unlikable that they were not only flat characters, but also severely unbelievable. Where did the redeeming qualities of the prodigal, unreliable brother go in You Can Count on Me? Perhaps, like Janney, they were run over by the bus in Margaret.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the film tried so hard to hark on a post-9/11 New York– tackling such controversial issues in Lisa’s Upper West Side high school classroom as well as at dinner parties Lisa’s mother attends, that not only do these issues seem much less relevant six years later, but also it presented an even more unfocused movie. What happened to the bus accident?!

What the viewer was left with is a movie which tried so hard to do something new and innovative in a see of Hollywood blockbusters that it failed the actual test of being a good movie.

SKIP IT, I beg of you.

Yup, that’s right Banterers. Jack of all trades, Scarlett Johansson is set to direct the film version of Truman Capote’s first written novel (yet remained the last published one, posthumously) Summer Crossing. The screenplay is currently being adapted by playwright Tristin Skylar, who is coincidentally also penning the film version of The Bell Jar with Julia Styles attached as the lead, and revolves around a 17-year-old semi-socialite living in New York City in 1945 who falls in love with a parking attendant, and subsequently marries him and bears his child. It sounds interesting enough.

While Johansson did direct These Vagabond Shoes, one of the shorts that didn’t make the theatrical cut for New York, I Love You, this will mark Johansson’s first step into the world of feature-filmmaking. Johansson is certainly an interesting choice for this somewhat coveted list, but I remain a little hesitant as Johansson’s career, while starting out very strong with noteworthy roles in The Horse Whisperer, Ghost World, and Lost in Translation, has since subsided with poor decisions to star in the dreadful The Nanny Diaries and He’s Just Not That Into You. Still, though, I was a Johansson fan from the beginning and I will remain that way until the end. Let’s just hope her less-than-appreciated turn to music with is no signifier for this latest venture.

If you are one of those people who are worried that Ben Affleck’s next directorial stint is not going to be set in Boston, don’t you fret. I repeat. It’s all going to be okay.

Since you’ve now caught your breath, it appears Affleck will direct a biopic of Whitey Bulger A.K.A. Robin Hood with a thicker Boston accent. A compelling story as Bulger was recently arrested living the good life in Santa Monica, California. But there’s more good news.

The film is set to include Matt Damon. You may remember him from Dogma and they may have done something else together…The band’s back together, boys! Outside of the Kevin Smith realm, the two have done little in the way of each others’ careers since the Oscar win in 1997. The film will also be written by Boardwalk Empire helmer Terence Winter. And to make sure nepotism is in full effect, Casey Affleck will have a role as well. (Lay off on Casey, he’s a good actor.)

There is a little bit of bad news for the duo, though. Currently in the works are other projects to be based on, either directly or not quite as directly, about the notorious criminal. One is a television show about a neighbor who is a major criminal living a normal life, which actually sounds like an entertaining idea for a T.V. show. Good job, people who thought of that! Then there’s the other one, which will propose the biggest competition to this project seeing as it is also a film about Whitey Bulger. And it’ss based on a book. And the point goes to the book? People really like movie books, from what I hear. Oh what’s that? Yes it is to be co-produced by Twilight star Peter Facinelli. Twilight stars know a thing or two about adapting books, don’t they, Water for Elephants?

In the end, some of you this may find this all good news because it is going to be set in Boston and feature a lot of heavy Bostonian accent. And really those are the best kinds of movies aren’t they?

But fear not, Banterers, the flying low appears to be over. In addition to directing two music documentaries (The Union and Pearl Jam Twenty) to be released later this year, it appears Crowe has been busy making the heart-warming, family friendly movie We Bought a Zoo, the trailer of which was recently released.

What’s great is that Crowe, despite past follies, can still get a solid cast together. The movie, which centers around a single father who moves his family of three to the country to re-open a failing local zoo, boasts a cast of Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson, Thomas Haden Church and Elle Fanning.

And judging by the trailer, the movie does seem to have potential. I mean, who doesn’t love a down-to-earth, feel good movie? Throw in some zoo animals and you got yourself what could turn out to be a strong Christmastime box office hit. Well, welcome back, Crowe. I’ve rooted for you ever since I saw John Cusack thrust a boom box over his head in an attempt to win over the love of his life. It’s been too long. Really.

We Bought a Zoo is set for release on December 23, 2011. Watch the trailer below:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Contagion is a fictional take on the world’s reaction to a deadly new disease. After the hike in deaths due to the strange disease, the CDC contracts a group of doctors to help solve the mystery and figure out a cure to save the world. Fear takes over the public, eventually leading to a fight or die situation where it’s every man for himself. The film tracks the lives of at least six different characters: Alan Krumwiede (Jude Law), a blogger and conspiracy theorist against the government and pharmaceutical drugs, Beth Emhoff (Gwyneth Paltrow), an infected wife and mother, her husband (Matt Damon), Dr. Ellis Cheever (Laurence Fishburne), Dr. Leonora Orantes (Marion Cotillard), and Dr. Erin Mears (Kate Winslet).

The best way to describe this film is as a slow and long roller coaster ride. It’s basically an apocalyptic film, so there are lots of thrills and the filmmakers do not hesitate to show really gross (for lack of a better word) imagery. In fact, if you don’t have a strong stomach or if you’re a germaphobe in even the slightest way, beware. This may not be the film for you.

The pace is very slow and can make the film seem like it’s never going to end. And although it was a great treat to see the ensemble cast, the interweaving of so many characters’ lives works against the film by adding to the slow and long pace. That being said, I did appreciate that the characters were extremely well developed, and therefore, the film will touch your heart in one way or another. Also, I personally loved the message of the film. Even though it was fictional, it had a lot of truth hidden throughout. It has a great way of showing, how shall I say it…how the world works.

This is definitely not the usual Hollywood flick, but I would deem it worth a watch. Everyone who watches this film will walk away with something.

SEE IT.

10- The Skin I Live In

Release Date: October 14, 2011

Starring Antonio Banderas as a deranged, but brilliant plastic surgeon, who creates a synthetic skin that withstands any kind of damage, his guinea pig, a mysterious and volatile woman, holds the key to his obsession. To be honest even after that synopsis I don’t know too much about the film, and after watching the trailer I know less. But this actually intrigues me more. Watch the trailer and you’ll see, this film will definitely be different than anything you’ve ever seen before.

Click here to view the embedded video.

9- Carnage

Release Date: December 16, 2011

You can’t really go wrong with a Roman Polanski film in my book. Not to mention a dynamite cast of Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz, and John C. Reilly. It tells the story of two sets of parents who decide to have a cordial meeting after their sons are involved in a schoolyard brawl. If the trailer is any indication of the film itself, we can look forward to some incredible chemistry among the cast.

Click here to view the embedded video.

8- My Week With Marilyn

Release Date: November 4, 2011

While we haven’t seen a trailer yet for this film, early positive buzz and a solid cast already has this one a lock at awards season next year. While some people had their doubts about Michelle Williams pulling off a convincing Marilyn Monroe, I always had faith in her and after the first few promo pics were released, I see that I am right. Look out for Emma Watson in a supporting comedic role too!

7- J. Edgar

Release Date: November 9, 2011

Like ‘Marilyn,’ we don’t have much information on this film yet. But how can you go wrong with Clint Eastwood in the director’s chair and a spectacular cast of Leonardo DiCaprio (as J. Edgar Hoover no less), Naomi Watts, Armie Hammer, Judie Dench, Ed Westwick and more! Throw in a controversial gay subplot and I’m hooked. Does anyone else think it’s time DiCaprio won an Oscar?

6- Warrior

Release Date: September 9, 2011

I have to admit, when I first heard about this film all I could think of is how it is just a rip-off of last year’s ‘The Fighter.’ But after checking out the emotionally driven trailer, and reading up on some positive early buzz, I definitely have had a change of heart. Some people are even saying it is better than ‘The Fighter’! I’ll believe that when I see it, but I’m definitely intrigued.

Click here to view the embedded video.

5- The Ides of March

Release Date: October 7, 2011

The moment I saw the trailer for this flick I was sold. Not only is it directed by George Clooney, he also stars in it, along with a few other names you may know. Ryan Gosling, Evan Rachel Wood, Marisa Tomei, Paul Giamatti, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. I’m sure one of those names at least rings a bell huh? With a scandalous and exciting political storyline to boot, this film is definitely a must see.

Click here to view the embedded video.

4- Drive

Release Date: September 16, 2011

Ryan Gosling sure has a big year ahead of him. There is already some talk that ‘Drive’ is going to be the biggest surprise hit of the year and while I’m not convinced yet, I can’t deny the story of a Hollywood stunt performer who turns into a heist driver by night doesn’t grab my attention. Throw in tons of great action sequences and the talented Carey Mulligan and I’m in.

Click here to view the embedded video.

3- Contagion

Release Date: September 9, 2011

Without a doubt, ‘Contagion’ has to be one of the most anticipated films of the year. A high-profile cast? Check. A slick marketing campaign? Check. A gripping and exciting trailer? Check. Yep, the Steven Soderbergh directed flick not only has a roster of Gwyneth Paltrow, Matt Damon, Kate Winslet, Marion Cotillard, Jude Law, and Laurence Fishburne, it also has a sinister plot. An action film with a thriller tone? Count me in!

Click here to view the embedded video.

2- 50/50

Release Date: September 30, 2011

I have already had the pleasure of seeing ‘50/50’ in theaters (expect my review closer to release), and let me just squash any doubts about a cancer comedy now. Not only is this film hysterical, well-acted (Joseph Gordon-Levitt killed it!), and emotional, it’s actually my favorite film of the year by far! Even Seth Rogen (who usually annoys me) nailed his role. Don’t miss out!

Click here to view the embedded video.

1. The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

Release Date: December 21, 2011

Of course my most anticipated movie of the year also has the latest release date. Not only is this based on my favorite book series, it’s also being helmed by my favorite director, David Fincher. The cast is filled with plenty of international stars and the teaser trailer proves Fincher is going dark with this one, real dark. The tagline reads ‘The Feel Bad Movie of Christmas’ and I couldn’t be more excited!

Click here to view the embedded video.

What do you think Banters? Any of these grab your attention? And what’s YOUR most anticipated film of the Fall season?

What’s Contagion, you ask? Well, please allow me. Contagion is a movie with everything in it– a huge (HUGE) cast, a fun plot, solid death scenes, dramatic (and probably a little melodramatic), a likely love story and a looming apocalypse threatening all civilization as we know it. Like I said, Soderbergh took everything one might ask for in a film, and created the perfect amalgamation. And I don’t think anyone is sure how exactly Soderbergh did it.

For one thing, Contagion stars (wait for it) Matt Damon, Marion Cottilard, Kate Winslet, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Laurence Fishburne, Bryan Cranston, John Hawkes and Jennifer Ehle, just to name a few. What, Soderbergh, did all of these people owe you a favor and you just happened to collect from them at the same time? You know what, it really doesn’t matter because the cast alone would get me to spend the 13 bucks it takes to see this movie.

But then you combine this cast with the movie’s plot– the inception and consequent spreading of a highly contagious, deathly disease threatens to eradicate all of mankind within a matter of days– and you not only got me spending 13 bucks to see this movie, but you also have me spending 13 bucks to see this movie at midnight on opening day. I mean, come on, guys: it’s Outbreak meets 28 Days Later. What can go wrong?! Well, nothing if you ask me!Especially because, as the trailer reveals, we all know Gwyneth Paltrow will be dead within the first 15 minutes.

And the best part is, is that it opens September 9th. That’s right, September 9, 2011. I don’t even have to wait that long to see a movie that will surely change the way I see mankind and its desire to survive.

Watch the trailer below:

Click here to view the embedded video.

With today’s Tiger Woodsless US Open beginning at Congressional, we wanted dig deep, go passed the best golf movies of all-time, and go right to our favorite movie golfers of all-time. There have been many movies about golf made across the years. Some great heroes and even some incredible villains. I’d say the villains in these movies are better characters than the heroes they often lose to.  Echem, Shooter McGavin.  Lets get to it.

Honorable Mention - Francis Ouimet (The Greatest Game Ever Player), Rannulph Junnah (The Legend of Bagger Vance), David Simms (Tin Cup), Judge Smails (Caddyshack), Danny Noonan (Caddyshack), Al Czervik (Caddyshack)

5. Bagger Vance (The Legend of Bagger Vance)

Bagger Vance taught a struggling Rannulph Junnah to not only find his lost game but essentially taught him the meaning of life.  Vance’s magical coaching allowed Junnah to tie Walter Hagen and Bobby Jones in an epic match. Junnah even saw the path of the green on that crazy 40 foot, downhill putt that even a top-notch Tiger Woods had no chance of making.   Well whatta you know, Junnah sunk it. All thanks to Bagger Vance.

Best Line – “I hear you lost your swing. I guess we got to go find it”

4. Happy Gilmore (or Shooter McGavin) (Happy Gilmore)

Happy and Shooter shared a rivalry that is almost untouchable. Shooter almost put Happy’s grandmother on the streets, and Ben Stiller (as a Nursing Home nurse) even got in there causing more hell for this innocent old lady to live in.  I believe he was using the residents as slave labor.  Happy drafted Cubbs (aka Apollo Creed aka Carl Weathers) to coach him to play and took out Shooter to win his grandma’s house back.

Best Line – “shoot-ahhhhhhhhh”

3. Ty Webb (Caddyshack)

Teaming up with Danny Noonan to take on Judge Smails, messing around with the Judge’s hot niece (Noonan did get Webb’s sloppy seconds), and being the king of cool, Ty Webb is the ultimate golfer.  He had uncashed checks in the thousands and a house full of various [unique] items. Were those war ornaments?  Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na. People still say that on the golf course, giving Webb true timelessness in our hearts.

Second Best Line – “I’m going to give you a little advice. There’s a force in the universe that makes things happen. And all you have to do is get in touch with it, stop thinking, let things happen, and be the ball.”

2. Roy McAvoy (Tin Cup)

After a tragic first round (because Romeo had Roy get wasted the night before), McAvoy had a magical second round putting himself in contention at the US Open. I’m pretty sure he tied the course record.  McAvoy then sunk a 200 yard shot on the 72nd hole of the Open, on a downward sloping green. Well, yeah it did take him like 6 shots to do it. And yeah, it gave him a 12 and cost him the title.  It was the greatest 12 ever.  That fateful hole had been plaguing the field all tournament. Even world number 1, David Simms (Don Johnson), laid up every time.  Well, McAvoy doesn’t settle for laying up.  Roy was sponsored by Rio Grande Short-Haul Trucking, Briggs and Brown Sanitation, First State Bank of Salome, and Woody’s Smokehouse. Does he look like a guy who plays the percentages?

Best Line – “Nice par, David.”

1. Carl Spackler (Caddyshack)

There is simply too much to say about Spackler, Bushwood’s infamous groundskeeper hired to make the course look pretty.  Even though he isn’t really a golfer, his greatness cannot go unrecognized.  Despite ultimately losing to the gopher, he did become a Cinderella story.   He ate the chocolate bar in the pool that looked like doodie and he was the only one to truly witness the priest play that unbelievable round (that I think set the club record) and then get struck by lightning.

Best Line – “He’s on his final hole. He’s about 455 yards away, he’s gonna hit about a 2 iron I think.”

What do you think?

The company, called Captivate Entertainment and established in 2009, is headed by former ICM agent Ben Smith and has some exciting projects in the works, despite the fact that Matt Damon has declined to star in the 4th BOURNE installment.  Next year, Universal will release THE PARSIFAL MOSAIC, directed by Ron Howard, and THE MATARESE CIRCLE, starring Tom Cruise and Denzel Washington and directed by David Cronenberg.

A whole bunch of secret agent stuff… shocking.

That said, I really didn’t mind the film (with the exception of, you guessed it, the fedora.) Matt Damon and Emily Blunt vs. the world. Actually, the world’s not the problem. It’s the bureau. Only the bureau. For some reason, they REALLY don’t want them to be together. Bureau, just give them a break already; they’re cute together. That’s the movie ladies and gentlemen.

I would tell you more, but I realize that the commercials are somewhat mysterious for a reason. Maybe not mysterious, but they don’t show the deeper layers. And they’re there. The extra details are the ones that make you feel a little bit for the characters. The problem is you never have enough to care for them that much. Don’t get me wrong, Damon and Blunt are excellent. They have good chemistry and, if nothing else, they are very (forgive the pun) blunt and flirtatious.

So what’s the problem? (The fedora!!! But seriously…) For most of it I have to admit, I bought what I was sold. If you take a big leap at the beginning and agree to the terms and conditions of Roger Sterling, it does make sense. But a single umbrella encompasses everything. Too much really. I want to reiterate this again. If you follow through with what is said by the bureau, it’s easy to justify everything else. Too easy, which may be the problem. The person I saw it with understood, but wasn’t convinced by their onscreen romantics. Because there’s so much behind the scenes plot that it makes it trickier to really care.

We’ve all seen rom-coms and we’ve all seen thrillers with love stories. The reason I’m pointing this out is because The Adjustment Bureau is not a thriller with a side plot of love. In rom-coms, the rom usually overtakes the com. Here, the rom takes over the thrill. Be wary of that. Be wary of the whole thing mostly. As much of a cop out as it sounds, it’s okay. It’s a really okay movie.

RENT IT