CONVICTION (2010)

DIRECTOR: Tony Goldwyn. STARRING: Hilary Swank. Sam Rockwell. Minnie Driver. After having moderate success directing television the last four years, director Tony Goldwyn marks his return to film with Conviction. The film, based on a true story, focuses on Betty Ann Waters' (Hilary Swank) fight for her brother's innocence in a wrongful murder conviction. The film really falls short of "good" on many levels. The performances are all pretty lackluster, with the exception of Sam Rockwell. The story, which spans almost forty years, jumps so often it's difficult to determine how much time has passed between cuts. I couldn't help thinking that the story in the hands of a more accomplished director, would have connected better. Although not everything was terrible. As I mentioned before, Sam Rockwell gives us another solid performance. His innocent prisoner in waiting is provided the type of edge and humor that we all have all grown to love about him. There is no need to rush to theaters for this one, as a home rental should suffice quite well. RATING: * * (Two stars)

Conviction : Trailer

IT'S KIND OF A FUNNY STORY (2010)

DIRECTORS: Anna Boden. Ryan Fleck. STARRING: Keir Gilchrist. Zach Galifinakis. Emma Roberts. It's Kind of a Funny Story isn't going to merit many awards, but that doesn't change the fact that it is a fairly good movie on many accounts. The character build up in the beginning does drag somewhat, but once everyone is introduced the film really starts to take shape. No one performance really stands out as something outstanding, with the exception of Zach Galifinakis. This is a much more subtle role for the comedian, who really knocks this performance out of the park. He shows a degree of talent not yet captured on screen for him. The easiest comparison for the film is a toned down One Flew Over the Cookoo's Nest crossed with Juno. Funny, quirky, and touching, this film has the makings for a fun date night out at the movies. RATING: * * * 1/2 (Three and 1/2 stars)

It's Kind of a Funny Story : Trailer

I'M STILL HERE (2010)

DIRECTOR: Casey Affleck. STARRING: Joaquin Phoenix. Casey Affleck. Antony Langdon. I'm Still Here is an excellent portrayal of self destruction that might prove to be destruction itself. Joaquin Phoenix gives us his vision of a star destined to meet "rock bottom." As truly fake as this documentary is claimed to be, it would be hard to believe that many of Phoenix and director Casey Affleck's personal feelings towards "fame" are not expressed. There are laughable moments through out the film, but more where you are caught off guard at fiction seeming to be a little too realistic. If this film would have been the real deal, it's an certainty that Phoenix would be hard pressed to find a Hollywood gig anytime in the future. Although, since it's fake we can all breathe a sigh of relief as one of film's more talented stars hasn't gone completely insane. Recommended. RATING: * * * * (Four Stars)

I'm Still Here : Trailer

EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP (2010)

DIRECTOR: Banksy. STARRING: Thierry Guetta. Banksy. Shepard Fairey. one of the most interesting documentaries I have seen in years. What begins as a backstage look at an art movement, ends up being an amazing character study. Thierry Guetta's , or Mister Brain Wash, overnight rise to fame finds relevance in a time of mega celebrity and internet billionaires. Highly recommended. RATING: * * * * 1/2 (Four and 1/2 stars)

Exit Through the Gift Shop : Trailer