You are here: HomeU.S. NewsConstitutionRaven Clabough

Raven Clabough

Saturday, 17 July 2010 16:00

Inception: Sci-fi Thought Thriller

Inception posterLeonardo DiCaprio does it again with this summer’s new blockbuster hit, Inception. Not everyone will agree with that, however. I contend that there will be two camps that develop in the theaters: those who become so frustrated over the utter confusion and suspension of disbelief involved in viewing Inception that they despise the film; and those who throw caution to the wind, allow themselves to be sucked into the science fiction, and enjoy every captivating moment. Count me in the second camp.

Despicable MeFor parents interested in a pleasant way to pass the afternoon with their children, consider newly released Despicable Me (that is, if Toy Story 3 is not an option). Characterized by warmth, humor, and even some insight into the human psyche, Despicable Me is a winner.

Toy Story 3Toy Story 3 proves that with great writing and endearing characterization, success is achievable, even after 11 years. The enthralling finale to the adored series opened on Friday, June 18, to an audience of 20-somethings who remember when the first and second films came out, as well as to a new generation of fans, and in a single day made $41 million.

Prince of PersiaI want to be straight with you. I feel it necessary to preface this review by saying that Disney’s Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time goes so far beyond the realm of reality that it borders on absurdity, and that there is very little “Disney” quality to the movie except for the astounding special effects. That being said, I must confess that I found myself thoroughly captivated, once I suspended my utter disbelief, and in the end, enjoyed the movie, much to my surprise.

ShrekShrek Forever After is a film that concurrently entertains and teaches a valuable lesson: You don’t know what you have until it’s gone. The film’s theme helps to appeal to an older audience, who can certainly relate to the midlife crisis that seems to be plaguing Shrek at the beginning of the film.  Couple that with a mastery of double entendra and you have yet another successful Shrek movie.

Robin HoodThough it’s only May, I have no qualms with the following prediction: Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood will be my favorite film of 2010. It captured every element that a good movie requires: a bit of history, patriotism, loyalty, a struggle for freedom, war, and love.

Iron Man 2What do you get when you combine the angry son of a Russian defective, a very ripped Robert Downey, Jr., and an unending suspension of disbelief? Very likely the blockbuster hit of the summer: Iron Man 2.

Wednesday, 31 March 2010 21:45

Last Song: Positive Film About Love, Family

Last Song posterContrary to popular belief, The Last Song starring Miley Cyrus, an adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ best-selling novel, is not your typical “teeny-bopper” love story. In fact, it is a heart-breaking tale about an estranged father-daughter relationship that is propelled into reconciliation when said daughter must spend her summer with her father, only to discover devastating news. For this reason, this film is not only recommended for teens and young adults, but for all women who consider themselves “daddy’s girl.”

Diary of a Whimpy Kid“I’ll be famous one day, but for now I’m stuck in middle school with a bunch of morons.” Greg Heffley’s perception of middle school was less than optimistic — in fact, he thought it was the dumbest idea ever invented. What middle schooler wouldn’t agree? That’s why Diary of a Wimpy Kid proved to be a popular book series and now a hit movie to boot!

Sunday, 07 March 2010 23:30

Hurt Locker Wins Big at Oscars

The Hollywood Kodak Theatre rolled out the red carpet for the star-studded 82nd annual Academy Awards on Sunday night. Celebrities from all over the world dressed to impress and made their way down the red carpet, stopping for photo opportunities along the way, of course. Steve Martin and Alex Baldwin co-hosted the show and just as expected, it was an evening to remember.

Subscribe to The New American daily highlights