Not all movies are equal

Watching and talking movies is a big hobby of mine, but one thing that frustrates me is how to rate a movie. I get frustrated because there is no set formula, and nor do I think there should be. But it is this grey area of films that makes it frustrating to me, especially when it comes to selecting a top 20 or top 50 list.

Sometimes I watch a movie and it fits my definition of what a GREAT movie is. This doesn't mean it is great for someone else, this is where the top movie lists and myself differ. To me a movie is not just art, but it is entertainment, emotions and a host of other things that make a movie great. This is why movies like "The Goonies" should not be compared to movies like "The Godfather". It is simply not a fair comparison. They are both great in their own ways, but one is childish and humorous. The other has an amazing story and great acting. Both are executed flawlessly... but which movie is better?

The is no real answer to the question. Both movies have different things to offer and to different audiences. I try to keep this in mind when watching a movie like "Eragon" which I do not find satisfying. But at the same moment, it is not made for me it is made for kids and for the die hard fantasy crowd. This doesn't make the movie bad, it just makes it less enjoyable for myself. The things that are universal such as good acting, directing, dialog, cinematography and special effects are the minimums. Anytime a movie executes these categories well it is hard to say it is a bad movie. Plot is the relative part of the equation.

My point being, sometimes it is okay to have a plot that may seem weaker than average, it is whether the movie entertains or not. Many comedies fit this profile and are quite good. Other movies, dramas in particular, are held to a higher standard of plot but it doesn't mean they are a better movie. It just means that the movies of different types offer different experiences and benefits. We should not judge a comedy against a horror film against a drama, the answer is not that simple.

Nintendo Wii loosing appeal

A recent BBC article suggested that the Nintendo Wii may be a short lived game console because it is loosing its appeal since the games aren't as in depth as the competition. I have a Wii and I have to say I may agree. To me it was great fun at first and I got a bunch of games, spent a lot of money on game cube accessories, and now I am finding that I enjoy the x-box just as much. In fact I don't even play the Wii games, I play the game cube games since the remotes don't do much for me anymore. I think they are innovative and great for sports games but for normal games they are basically the same as having a normal controller. The long-term verdict is still out on the Wii but hopefully the next wave of new games will keep the Wii entertaining for years to come.

First Post

This is my first post, it is long overdue.