If you've seen Alfonso Cuaron's lovely film "A Little Princess" (1995), it shouldn't seem strange that he was asked to direct the third installment in the Potter series, which he does with skill. It's Harry's third year at Hogwarts, and once again his life is in danger. Lunatic Sirius Black, escaped from wizard-prison, is out to kill Harry, and thereby succeed where his dark master Voldemort failed 12 years ago. The story is messy at times in its attempt to squeeze as many storylines and wild magical tricks into the movie as possible. It should have focused more on the central plot elements.
That said, the children's acting is the best we have seen yet, and the movie fully achieves its aims: to make an interesting and fun night out for the whole family. ***
Julie Vinten
Wow. This third installment in the Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) franchise is a stunning visual treat from start to finish. You don't have to be a Potter fanatic to enjoy the show. Mexican director Alfonso Cuaron aptly proves that special effects can be successfully integrated into the plot with depth and believability. The hippogriff creature, half horse and half eagle, is amazing; while the dementors (too frightening for toddlers) will send shivers down your spine. There is an undercurrent of joy that shines brightly through the dark and sinister feel of the film. Potter and pals are finally real human beings. Without a doubt, it's the best and the most enjoyable picture in the series. This reviewer is already standing in line to see "HP 3" one more time. *****
Laimons Juris G
Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights
It's difficult not to feel embarrassed by this vacuous movie. Katie is in her last year of high school when her parents decide to move to Cuba. Here the prudish but good-hearted American meets Cuban dirty-dancing, as well as the passionate Javier (Diego Luna), and a forbidden relationship starts to bud. Too bad that the main characters exhibit so little real passion. In their most intimate moments (which amount to intensely staring at each other's eyes), they frankly look as if they can't stand each other. Mexican actor Diego Luna is genuinely charming, and we already know from "Open Range" and "Y Tu Mama Tambien" that he can act. He shouldn't be in this movie. Neither should Patrick Swayze. His cameo as Katie's slick dancing mentor is a sad, sad thing to watch. * 1/2
Julie Vinten
Why is everybody picking on this sweet little charming flick? The ambience of pre-Castro Cuba comes vividly to life in this good-natured romantic drama. Contrary to popular belief this is more of a prequel to "Dirty Dancing" than a sequel. A brief appearance by Patrick Swayze is actually the only reference to the surprise-hit motion picture released exactly 17 years ago. Hot Latin rhythms combined with some good moves by Romola Garai and Diego Luna make for some agreeable entertainment. The British beauty is perfectly matched with the likeable Mexican. The melodic soundtrack will have you moving your shoulders, swaying to the music and tapping your feet. It's an ideal film for an old-fashioned style date. You may have the time of your life. Then again, you may not. *** 1/2
Laimons Juris G
Out of Time
"Out of Time" once again pairs actor Denzel Washington with the director of "Devil in a Blue Dress," Carl Franklin. Washington plays Matt Whitlock, chief of police in a small, sunny Florida town. He is a good man, but drinks too much and has an affair with a married woman. When she and her husband are killed, Whitlock finds that all evidence points to him. We have seen these kinds of suspense thrillers a thousand times before, but this movie is an above-average example of the genre. Washington does a good job with his character, and the story is, although implausible, clear-cut and adept. The ending is none too clever either, but the movie is still enthralling and entertaining. It's nothing extraordinary, but quite solid filmmaking nonetheless. ** 3/4
Julie Vinten
A few words of caution: don't expect anything spectacular or earth shaking. But "Out of Time" delivers enough punch to be a pleasant surprise. To reveal anything that happens after the first half-hour would spoil the twists and turns which may have you sitting on the edge of your seat. Or you could just as easily be falling asleep. Denzel Washington sets the mood, which gets this movie rolling after a slow, laid back introduction. The rest of the ensemble is good too, especially two lovely ladies - Eva Mendes and Sanaa Lathan. Though it's John Billingsley who manages to steal every scene he's in. The talented Washington certainly deserves a lot better. Nevertheless, taking into consideration all the awful crap being released today, this movie is at least watchable.***
Laimons Juris G
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