With minutes to spare....

Last one! Get excited!!


Day 365
Death at a Funeral
2010


I was very skeptical when I first heard someone was remaking this movie. As a big fan of Mr. Oz's original film, I wasn't sure how it would survive being moved to a different country, a different culture.

I was very pleasantly surprised, amazed, honestly, at how seamlessly it was adapted to the setting of an African-American family.

That they were able to keep Peter Dinklage in the cast was perfect, as was the casting of Chris Rock. In my opinion, James Marsden nearly steals the show, but truly all of the casting is just right-on.

I'd really like to write something intelligent here about how we're all more alike than we are different, but that the differences are what make life so interesting and fun and difficult, but it's nearly midnight and frankly I'm exhausted...

Suffice it to say, I think this movie is excellent. It stands on its own, but it pairs perfectly with its predecessor, despite the ocean between them.

Such a clever, funny story that still remains meaningful and touching. I highly recommend you check it out.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  4 out of 5 stars
Sandwiches for everyone. Have a party, because....


THE LUKE WILSON MERETHON IS OFFICIALLY FINISHED!!!! 


Thanks for playing. You've been just wonderful. Stay tuned for great(er) things to come!

Oh, and happy birthday to you, Mr. Wilson.

Meredith, out.
xoxo

"This is the world wide web, dumbass."

Day 365
Middle Men
2009




For a film about the start of the internet porn industry, this sure was boring.

It was a fairly interesting story, and I'm very curious to know which parts most closely resemble the actual story upon which the film is based.

Regardless, this movie was just boring and slow-moving, dominated heavily by Mr. Wilson's voice-over dialogue. In all honesty, I just couldn't even finish it. By the end, I didn't really even care what happened to any one of the characters. I kind of felt bad for the family of Mr. Harris (played by Mr. Wilson), but otherwise, it's just hard to really give a shoot about any of it.

The most entertaining part of watching this film came when Matt finally got home. I was in the other room watching a scene, one of many in which Giovanni Ribisi runs around screaming at someone. I had just written down in my notebook, "Ribisi is pretty annoying. Sounds like Jeremy Piven." Moments later Matt calls out from the other room, "Is that Jeremy Piven? Who's talking right now?"  Hilarious. Wasn't just me.

Anyways, check it out if you want. I guess you could do worse...


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  1 out of 5 stars
If you can stomach it, go for it....






Up next...and LASTLY...
Death at a Funeral

Tenure

Day 365
Tenure
2009


I've seen this movie twice now, and I'd have to say I appreciated it even more after my second viewing. It probably won't change your life, but I found it surprisingly...effectual.

There's a lot of great sub-plots at work, the least of which involves the ever-elusive, ever-present Bigfoot. I think perhaps there could have been something more, something deeper. Even so, it's a good effort and a fairly entertaining film.

Again, Mr. Wilson proves that he's more than a supporting actor. With a decent script and good supporting cast, he is a capable actor. Or maybe that's the coffee talking... Nah, I stand by it.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 3 out of 5 stars
I'd suggest grilled cheese and tomato soup. Seems like a rainy-day kind of movie...




Up next...
Middle Men

Henry Poole is Here

Day 365
Henry Poole is Here
2008


This movie was tough to watch. It is fortunately uplifting, and perhaps if I'd seen it under a different set of circumstances, as a person with different life experiences, it may have resonated more deeply with me. I've heard from multiple people that they've really appreciated this film.

Personally, I'll all about hope, and so is this movie. While it still felt a little too sappy for my liking, I can't really disagree with hope or positiveness in the face of difficult circumstances.

I think this is the sort of movie that would really divide an audience. It might just be for you. It might not.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 2 out of 5 stars
Probably better save the sandwich for later...


Up next...
Tenure

Blonde Ambition

Day 365
Blonde Ambition
2007


I believe 'trite' is the word.

Country girl goes to the 'big city,' blah-blah-blaaaaaah.

As my mother might say, 'What a waste of resources.' (Ha! What would she say about this blog??)

Half of me wants to believe Mr. Wilson accepted this role just for the chance to hang with Mr. Willie Nelson.

Yeah...Let's just go with that.

Not only did this film reunite us yet again with Mr. Andy Dick, but it's also just pretty much terrible.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: *fart noise* out of 5 stars
Just run away...


Up next...
Henry Poole is Here

3:10 to Yuma

Day 365
3:10 to Yuma
2007


It was with great regret that I did not manage to watch this again recently for the sake of this blog. I definitely saw this in the theatre when it was first released and enjoyed it immensely. Love, love, love Christian Bale. Russell Crowe, on the contrary, has never been one of my favorites, but damned if he doesn't work out just perfectly in this flick.

I don't think I need to tell any of you that this is a great film. Again, my apologies that I haven't watched it more recently in order to provide more interesting insight, but...so far as memory serves, this is well worth a view (or two).

"But don't take my word for it!..."



MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  5 out of 5 stars
Hmm...borderline sandwich-appropriateness. Use discretion.




Up next...
Blonde Ambition




Note:  You may have noticed that we're skipping 'Battle for Terra.' Not only is this an animated film, but Mr. Wilson is listed as the second to last cast member on imdb.com. He's on the second page. Um, we just don't have that kind of time...

"I bet this gets the honeymooners in the mood..."

For the record, this blogging is currently going down live at Henry's. Live! So exciting, right?!

Anyways, the clock ticks on...



Day 365
Vacancy
2007



Let me preface this post by admitting that I do not--I repeat--do NOT do 'scary movies.'

I have trouble with people just sneaking up behind me! Seriously. It's a game. People, (my family), delight in quietly walking up behind me while I'm seated at a desk. I startle so very, very easily. Thus, the idea of purposefully watching something that by all means is meant to scare the pee out of me is just not terribly appealing. At all.

But I watched Vacancy, and I didn't hate it. I'm not sure that I liked it, either, but I thought it was well-done. I thought it was legitimately scary. I thought it plausible, which surely made it all the more frightening. Honestly, as I think back on it now, I'm confusing it very much with the film Identity....

Anyways, that aside, this film was satisfying. It had the main premise supplemented by the complications of a sub-plot. Perhaps it was still a bit basic, but...it was manageable for someone like me. Generally, I approved.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 3 out of 5 stars
Sandwiches could double as defense against any who would dare sneak-up on me mid-movie...




Up next...
3:10 to Yuma

"Who'd like to talk about Chlamydia?"

Day 365

Blades of Glory

2007

Frankly, I think this is a rare miss by Mr. Ferrell. Really not up to par.

In fact, my favorite part might have been Mr. Wilson's unexpected and all-too-brief cameo as Taylor, the 'sex class counselor.'

There are certainly some laughs to be had, but again, not so great. If you're into the slap-stick comedy of Mr. Ferrell and his gang, check it out for sure, but be warned;  it could be better.

And frankly, I like watching figure skating! I do love that they managed to get Scott Hamilton in on the joke, though. 

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  2 out of 5 stars

I've said it before, but it bears repeating:  as many sandwiches as you can carry...

Up next...

Vacancy

"No, you're not supposed to eat those..."

Day 365 
You Kill Me
2007


This flick was a fairly clever story about a retired Russian hit-man who's been sent to the coast, out of the family business, until he gets cleaned-up. Mr. Wilson plays his trusty AA sponsor. (I think...)

Ok, I admit, I watched this one a while ago...

I remember it was clever, but I also remember thinking Mr. Wilson's role wasn't explored to its full potential. Ben Kingsley is a convincing mobster, and the interplay between the two was lovely, but I remember just wanting more out of the film than it managed to deliver.

It was not a bad movie, but not terribly memorable either, apparently. However, one scene that sticks out most markedly in my mind is when Mr. Kingsley's 'Frank' attempts to clear his walkway of snow with the help of a bottle of vodka (in Buffalo, NY, before moving out to the cost, obviously). Standing at the start of the path, he takes a healthy swig from the bottle, then tosses it out in to the snow before him. He shovels until he reaches the bottle again. He then takes a couple more pulls before tossing the bottle down the path to shovel towards it once more...

Helluva way to shovel...


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  2 out of 5 stars
Maybe add some extra bread to that sandwich to soak up the booze?




Up next...
Blades of Glory

Hoot....

Day 365
Hoot
2006


Ok. Apparently this movie is excellent, because I can't get a hold of a copy anywhere. It's gone from the library, from my video rentals stores of choice, and Netflix would have come too late. I give up. Children everywhere must be relishing this story about owls or whatever.

I refuse to consider this a failure.

Let's call it an extension. I'll watch it someday?

I tried, but we've got to move on. The clock is ticking...



Up next...
You Kill Me

"Welcome to Costco. I love you."

Day 365
Idiocracy
2006

Wow.

This movie feels alarmingly plausible.

Its depiction of our future world is surely exaggerated and comical for the sake of being watchable and entertaining, but 'alarming' is definitely the correct word. You could maybe throw in 'unsettling,' as well. It's also just down right pessimistic.

But it's not all 'gloom and doom.' As I said, there are some genuinely humorous moments (i.e. Andrew Wilson as 'Beef Supreme'). I'd have to say I'm a pretty big fan of Mike Judge and this movie did not let me down.

If nothing else, its attempt to explore what our future may entail, should we all give in to our worst weaknesses/habits as a populace, makes for good post-viewing debate. Again, I think it's pessimistic in assuming the worst possible outcomes of our current path as a society, but better to contemplate these things now, right?

Truly, I think the ending embodies a really great message, as well. I don't mean to get too preachy or cheesy here, but I honestly believe that we cannot, and should not, just stand by while things deteriorate around us...whatever that may mean. Maybe I'm just saying we should put a greater emphasis on education and participation in our society.  Maybe I'm just saying we shouldn't throw in the towel when things look a little bleak. Maybe be a little proactive? After all, "there's no problem, only solutions..."

Yeah, we'll leave it at that.

Check this one out. Certainly a bit 'low-brow,' but thought-provoking, none the less.

Oh, I also can't let this go without mentioning that 'Bob' (aka Robert Musgrave) also makes an appearance at the beginning of this film.

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  4 out of 5 stars

This movie left me far too nauseated to even consider a sandwich....

Up next...

You Kill Me

"I'm still just kind of wondering what the hell happened..."

Day 364
My Super Ex-Girlfriend
2006


I'm just gonna go ahead and say straight away that this is certainly one of the worst movies I've ever seen. Just awful. (Ok, still not as bad as Bad Seed. Like that's sayin' a whole lot...).

I don't blame Mr. Wilson's lack of 'leading-man'-skills, a crime for which he has too often been accused. I believe he's fully capable (see The Wendell Baker Story) of carrying a movie. Rather, I believe the true culprit here is the sorry excuse for a script and the lamentable execution of what could have been a remotely interesting, or at least funny and entertaining story.

There is very little, if anything, interesting, funny or entertaining about this film. It's mostly just sort of unsettling. Uma Thurman just flounders. Or rather, she embodies to a 'T' the awful part for which she has been cast. Even Rainn Wilson and Eddie Izzard can't save this film. It amazes me that films like this one are ever even funded, let alone made and released for consumption.

To repeat, once more for emphasis:  just awful.

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  0 out of 5 stars. 
Throwing a sandwich at the person nearest you would without a doubt be much more entertaining than actually watching this movie...




Up next...
Idiocracy

"I'm very sorry to be here right now."

Day 364
Mini's First Time
2006


I first saw this movie on that glorious channel called Lifetime. I dare say I even liked it.

It's creepy. It's off-color. It is less than heart-warming. I'm not sure how I'd really describe it. Maybe a 'coming-of-age-meets-murder-plot-gone-wrong?'

But it's got Alec Baldwin AND...wait for it...Jeff Goldblum. So, it could be a whole lot worse.

Luke Wilson plays the only decent human being in the entire film, and quite well, too.  He truly is a great supporting actor, and I mean that in the most complimentary sense.

Truthfully, I found this one pretty entertaining, but I think it's the sort you've just got to see for yourself.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  3.5 out of 5 stars (an extra .5 for Mr. Baldwin and Goldblum, tehe)
Why stop at sandwiches when you could seductively eat a popsicle?  




Up next...
Hoot (if I can find it before midnight tomorrow, that is...)

"Meredith, don't quit! C'mon!..."

Day 364
The Family Stone
2005

This is one of the few of Mr. Wilson's movies that I saw in the theatre. It remains one of my very favorites of all his films.

Admittedly, though, a good portion of it is just painful for me to watch. It does not shy away from awkwardness, from gritty honesty. It's like Meet the Parents, but on a much more emotional, more realistic level. It's still very comedic and clever in its own right, but certainly a different brand than the Stiller/DeNiro dynamic. 

This is all precisely why I like it. As far as 'holiday movies' go, this one seems remarkably substantial.

I love the interactions among the family members. I love the intermittent sign language. It all seems quite genuine and natural. As a person with a fairly large family, it makes me long for holidays with my siblings. 

There's also just no chance I can watch this movie without tearing-up. Surely this is a further testament to the film's success. It's funny and entertaining, but it's got heart.

For Mr. Wilson's part, I have to add 'Ben Stone' to the list of my all-time favorite Luke Wilson characters. He's kind, blunt, charming and adorable. And (***spoiler***) am I not at least the slightest bit pleased that he ends up with the Meredith-character by the film's end? :)

In any case, I know it's sappy, but I really love this film. Maybe check it out this Christmas, if you're in to that sort of thing. 



MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  5 out of 5 stars
You might nearly spit out or choke on your sandwich a time or two. Use caution...


Up next...
Mini's First Time

"Don't call me dude, bro!"

Day 361
The Wendell Baker Story
2005


There is just a whole lot of Wilson going on in this movie.

For starters, this film was actually written by Luke Wilson. If that isn't enough, he and eldest brother, Andrew, also directed it. To round it out, Owen Wilson plays opposite of Luke as his unscrupulous employer. (Imagine an 'Evil Dignan'...). According to those in the know, even his aptly-named dog, Brother, appears in the film as 'Junior.'

The youngest Wilson plays the title role of Wendell Baker, and quite well, too. He appears naturally well-suited for the part and obviously should be, considering he wrote it. In any case, he did well with the writing and acting as it seems a very good fit for him.

Overall, I thought it was a pretty darn good movie, too. It's fun. It's entertaining. It's good for some laughs and it's a decent story. (Speaking of laughs, LOVED Will Ferrell's turn as 'Dave'). It feels distinctly Texan, which I suppose is either a good thing or bad thing, depending on how you feel about Texas...

My only real criticism is that it occasionally felt a little too hokey. A little too posed to the point of appearing almost a little 'Disney'-esque at times. The story itself is obviously a little unrealistic, though, so it only makes sense that they take some liberties here and there.

All the same, it did feel mildly heavy-handed at times. I think the intention was to give some credit to the acting veterans who appear in the film (ex: Seymour Cassel, Harry Dean Stanton). Perhaps moreso, an attempt in general to convey the notion that there is much we can learn from those who have gone before us. Certainly not a bad message...

This movie was also just genuinely pretty at times. There are more than a few shots that are simply very lovely.

Lastly, I just have to add, I was really pleased with myself for recognizing 'Bob,' (aka Robert Musgrave), of Bottle Rocket-fame, playing the part of the motorcycle cop in this film. Even with the sunglasses and helmet, he was all but unmistakable to me. I just adore that man's voice.

Truly, I think this was a great effort and an entertaining flick. Check it out, as I highly doubt you've ever even heard of it...


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 4 out of 5 stars
Perhaps a barbequed sandwich and a cold beer would pair well with this one...




Up next...
The Family Stone

"I've just been handed an urgent and horrifying news story..."

Day 360

Update:

Say what you will, but I can't not finish this. I've come too far. And a year-long joke-of-a-blog is never something to take lightly. I will finish.

As it stands we have 16 films left to go. That's approximately 24 hours of film to watch. About 3.2 movies to be watched every day for the next 5 days.

This is officially about to get even more ridiculous...

"If I had to guess, I'd say--female."

Day 357
Anchorman:  The Legend of Ron Burgundy
2004


There is just so, so much to say about this film. ("PANDA WATCH!")

When television trailers first began advertising Anchorman, I recall that I was dying to see it, solely because of the lead character's dog, shown in the preview wearing pajamas and headgear. Not to mention the fact that this lead character was played by Will Ferrell. ("The human torch was denied a bank loan.")

Little did we know how very quickly and easily this film would exceed our low expectations. ("It's science...")

To this day, Anchorman consistently makes me laugh out loud. And the frequency at which we find its most memorable lines applicable to daily conversation is both alarming and absolutely fantastic. ("Oh my god, you did!")

The script and premise are wonderful, but surely the casting, too, is perfection. The ad-libbing, the facial expressions and physical comedy at work throughout, the ridiculousness of the whole entire damn thing just leaves this woman in a fit of giggles. ("Knights-of-Columbus, that hurt!")

I'm also very glad Luke Wilson made the cut for this film, if for no other reason than that I get to include it in this blog. He's perfectly lovely and silly as the 3rd place-ranked news-team leader, Frank Vitchard. And is it just me, or is he really going for Clint Eastwood with the "Oh yeah? Well, you're about to be in... dead place!"-line?

Be warned that the DVD release is most often not the same as the theatrical version. It's typically the noticeably less-funny 'un-rated' version. I highly recommend seeking out the rated theatrical version when at all possible. ("It's the pancake breakfast. We do it every month...")

I know I'm not really doing it justice here, but suffice it to say, I just completely, shamlessly, adore this movie. ("She's really great.")

So, when in Rome...

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  5 out of 5 stars
Maybe skip the sandwich and try three fingers of Glenlivet with a little bit of pepper, and some cheese...


Up next...
The Wendell Baker Story

"Rules are made to be broken. Or stabbed by a spike-y shoe."

Day 355
Around the World in 80 Days
2004


This movie was remarkably watchable. Certainly you have to consider that it was meant for children, but it is entertaining, none the less. It manages to remain a focused, fairly intelligible story without taking itself too seriously. Even the accompanying animation shorts, which serve as chapter markers throughout the film, are pretty effective and interesting

Steve Coogan delivers some genuinely entertaining moments (see the blog post title quote), as does Jackie Chan. Personally, I am just a sucker for Mr. Chan's fight sequences. They're obviously highly-choreographed, but always so clever and creative.

I knew nothing about the book upon which the film is based. From the little research I did, it sounds like the film is quite a ways off on several parts. The inaccuracy most relevant to this blog was the addition of the characters Orville and Wilbur Wright, played by Luke and Owen Wilson, respectively. Not only do they randomly appear in the middle of the desert driving a horse-drawn wagon, (presumably not in N. Carolina or Ohio), but there seems to have been no mention at all of the Wright Brothers in Mr.Vernes' actual story. These characters do at least figure in to the movie's plot towards the end, though.

I was truly, pleasantly surprised and entertained by this film. It's silly and inaccurate, and probably not for everyone, but thankfully it really wasn't so bad.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  3 out of 5 stars
Someone should really invent a sandwich or drink, or something, called 'The Phileas Fogg'...


Up next...
Anchorman:  The Legend of Ron Burgundy

"No, that's not Sean Connery!"

Day 331
Legally Blonde 2:  Red, White and Blonde
2003

Ok, where do I begin?

This movie was dis-a-ppointing. Perhaps having any positive expectations at all was where I went wrong...I wasn't sure I was even going to make it through the first 10 minutes. Luckily for all of us, it did improve, but not much.

Though quite similar in plot line and characters, Red, White and Blonde seemed to lack much of the wit and charm that made the first movie so entertaining. Basically, the shtick is up: she's blonde, she's unconventional, and she's in a sorority. Got it.
We also see Mr. Wilson's 'Emmett' become even more the goofy, supportive boyfriend that continually looks on with pride, sappily nodding while Elle gets things done. I'm pretty sure the screenplay directions must constantly say, "From back of room, look towards Elle while smiling proudly. Nod. Repeat. (Clap, if appropriate.)" I guess he's hard to dislike, but in the sense of like a really pretty, very supportive house plant, or something....

I don't think you're missing much if you stopped after the first film. If anything, I think this sequel just serves to highlight the better qualities of its predecessor. As in, 'Hey, remember when that was funnier in the first movie?'

And furthermore, staging a "Million Dog March" seems mildly insensitive, at best. It got a questioning, slanty-eyed head-shake from this lady, anyways.

But the pink suit and hat is undeniably killer.

And there was Bob Newhart. And 'Marcee' from Jerry Maguire! Damn, I loved that movie...

In any case, all involved should take some consolation in the fact that, if the first one hadn't been so good, this second effort wouldn't have been quite so dissatisfying in comparison. So, hey, 1 for 2.
Oh, but I'm 100% sold on the '"Snap Cup."


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  2 out of 5 stars
The testing of sandwich products on animals remains strictly prohibited.  ("Regulations, Created Solely for Sandwich Scale." Code of Federal Regulations Title 660, Pt. 46. 8, 2011)




Up next...
Around the World in 80 Days

"Yeah, 'Oh, boy,' is right..."

Day 331
Charlie's Angels:  Full Throttle
2003


I'm fulling capable and willing to 'suspend my disbelief' for the sake of a movie, but this one was really asking too much. The physics of this film are just all wrong. Wrong, wrong, wrong.

Wrong.

That aside, well.... There were a lot of famous people! Cameos-galore in this sequel. John Cleese. Even, the Olsen twins.

Yes, eldest brother Andrew also came back for round two, and even more entertaining-ly than last time. The part of Max, played by a poofy-haired Shia LeBeouf, made me nostalgic, yet again, for the days of  'Louis Stevens.'

Also, I'm not saying that I could do any better, but Justin Theroux should probably never attempt a feature-length film with an Irish accent ever again. Gross.

Bernie Mac, though quite entertaining as the new Bosley (fat-woman jokes aside), is no Bill Murray, and I was disappointed and confused as to why Mr. Murray had even been replaced. They probably explained that at some point... Admittedly, I watched this movie over the course of three different days. Let's just be grateful I finished it at all, ok?

Futhermore, most importantly, there was a severe lack of Luke Wilson in this flick. Not really even enough to write about, unfortunately.

To sum it up, this movie was just a bunch of star-studded, silly, over-the-top, highly-stylized, incredibly unrealistic, flashy, 'secret agent' nonsense.. And obviously, that was exactly the point.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  2 out of 5 stars
Maybe if you were to put the sandwich in your ear....Or your eyes? Or both?

Up next...

Legally Blonde 2:  Red, White and Blonde

"Swedes have no edge?"

Day 328
Alex & Emma
2003


Admittedly, this movie started off with one stike already against it:  it was a gift, from one of my least favorite ex-boyfriends. (What, you don't rank them?)

That aside, I tried to give it a fair chance, and it was at least better than I remembered.

Alex & Emma is the story of a writer, Alex, (Mr. Wilson), who also happens to be a gambler. Deeply indebted to some loan-sharks, he must finish his next book, collect his pay, and pass it on to whom it is owed, all within 30 days. If he should fail, a team of thugs will kill him.

After the thugs pay him a visit and break his laptop to impress upon him the severity of their threats, he employs the unsuspecting stenographer, Emma, (Kate Hudson), to type his book as he dictates.

Overall, it's a pretty clever premise, a telling of a story the two characters write, and re-write, together as they go along. It makes for some decently charming and clever banter between 'Alex,' and 'Emma."

I also enjoy the opportunity given to the actors to play multiple characters. Or in the case of Ms. Hudson, half of the characters in the film. Luckily, she adds some essential bits of comedy in that capacity as well.

I can't say the plot produces the most exciting of outcomes, but it works. It's at least satisfying, if predictable.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 3 out of 5 stars
Ok, I don't know if you folks have been playing along at home at all, but we've still got 20 MOVIES and only 37 days to go! So, just keep those sandwiches handy, alright?



Up next...
Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle

"Put in a good word for me."

Day 333
Old School
2003


Before this blog entry quickly deteriorates in to me just typing all of my favorite quotes from Old School, let us just first establish that I really, really like this movie. Like, a lot. I can't help it.

There are certainly several parts that I could do without: Andy Dick's entire portion of the movie, the whole sleeping-with-the-boss's-underage-daughter-thing, KY-wrestling. Ya know, little things here and there that naturally offend my better sensibilities. But on the whole, this movie just makes me genuinely laugh. It's one of the few of Mr. Wilson's movies that I actually went out and purchased, on purpose, long before this 'merethon' ever began.

Mr. Wilson's 'Mitch' is a great character, and ultimately one of my favorites of his. However, this entire movie would obviously be nothing without the comedic abilities of Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughn. Not to mention Jeremy Piven, Craig Kilborn, Leah Remini, and Sean William Scott doing what they do best. The entire film is truly well-cast, except for maybe Ellen Pompeo, who I just find to be a bit underwhelming as 'Nicole.' I can't blame that on her entirely, though, as her character unfortunately doesn't really seem to give her too much to work with in the first place.

Anyways, it probably won't change your life, but it's definitely a very entertaining comedy. So, again, before I start rambling about streaking, or going to Bed Bath and Beyond ("I don't know if we'll have enough time..."), let me just repeat that I love this movie and call it good.


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  4 out of 5 stars
All sandwiches welcome. No university affiliation required.



Up next...
Alex & Emma

[Bob Dylan mumbling incoherently...]

Day 322
Masked and Anonymous
2003


I debated trying to watch this movie again, and finally decided that life is too short and I just don't want to. I fell asleep the first time and I don't hold out too much hope for a second attempt.

In my opinion, this movie could be more aptly titled "Rambling and Incoherent."

I understood very little of what was happening or why. Perhaps I'm just too low-brow and simple, but I didn't get it. I not entirely sure there was even anything to "get."

The only real point of entertainment for me came in the form of Val Kilmer's character rambling on about animals, or something.

In any case, I would liken this movie experience to being cornered on Mass. Street by a "crazy person," subjected to their rambling observations for a couple hours, and emerging no more enlightened or fulfilled for any of it.

It's no secret that I'm not Bob Dylan's biggest fan, but I certainly can't say with any sort of authority that his presence or influence truly hurt or helped this film. For all I know, maybe it could have benefited from having more of his influence, but I would bet not...

All I can say is that I think it's just a mess. Period. And not in any good, interesting or useful way.

Normally in this blog, I do not defer to the opinions of established critics, nor do I normally even read any reviews of the films I blog about. However, after attempting to write this review, I happened to read Roger Ebert's review, and cannot help but want to share. The man was dead-on in my book.

Ohhh well. At least I found the poster in Spanish again...

Let the Merethon move on.



MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING:  No stars for you, Bobby. 
Definitely killed my appetite....



Up next...
Old School
(apparently Mr. Wilson also needed something a little more low-brow after this one, too!)

"That sounds sleazy and this is not sleazy."

Day 309
The Third Wheel
2002


First of all, it's just the best day ever when I happen to find the movie poster in Spanish.

But secondly, I've found it's hard for me to really enjoy a romantic comedy when I can't quite convince myself to even like the main character or care about his fate. Luckily, The Third Wheel still somehow manages to deliver a watchable movie, even despite the confusing and less than charming personality of its leading man.

Mr. Wilson's 'Stanley' is just so close.

He starts off fairly well as a seemingly intelligent, funny and well-liked, if a little shy, coworker. However, once he finally manages to ask out "the girl of his dreams" at the office, he quickly goes from "a little shy," to a lot of awkward. But even more distracting is the undercurrent of seemingly unnecessary aggression he exudes once they finally set out on their first date. And worst of all, everyone else, his date being the most guilty, seem fairly unfazed by it throughout.

Maybe it's just a complete lack of chemistry on the part of Mr. Wilson and Denise Richards, but by the end of the movie, you can't really imagine why there should ever be a second date, despite Stanley's (fairly vapid) confessions about love and fate.

Homeless man, Phil, is probably the saving grace of this entire film. Jay Lacopo, as Phil, adds some real flashes of entertainment. I'd say the entire movie is almost worth seeing solely for his monologue on bread, or even the bus-riding song.

In any case, he's much more endearing than Stanley. Perhaps that was maybe the intention of the film's creators even, but they didn't really leave Stanley much room for redemption. It surely looked like way too little too late to this girl, anyway.

Speaking of endearing, this movie made very small use of its cast. Melissa McCarthy got some decent screen time, but Greg Pitts, and un-credited 'extras' Lauren Graham and Nicole Sullivan really could have come in handy to add just a little more humor here and there. To his credit, however, Ben Affleck manages to conjure some pretty entertaining banter with Mr. Wilson towards the first half of the movie. If only it could last...

I can't say this movie is a complete throw-away. There's at least an excellent surprise cameo (that I won't give away!) mid-movie that sort of made my day.

So, yeah. Maybe give it a shot. Why not?



MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 3 out of 5 stars (I'm feeling generous today)
Bring two sandwiches! It's a date movie, afterall...




Up next....
Masked and Anonymous (gag)

"Of course it's dark. It's a suicide note."

Day 296
The Royal Tenenbaums
2001




Hey, remember me? Yeah, I've really got to get movin' if we're going to finish this in time...

As much as I'd like to make some sweeping statement about how paternal relationships are particularly more complicated than most other relationships in life, that would obviously be assuming way too much. Naturally everyone's situation is different.

I think it would be better for me to simply state that familial relationships are complex.

Truly any meaningful relationship has its complexities, but that added significance of blood or legal bond--whatever it is that claims you to your understood family unit--makes the complexities that much stronger, that much more loaded with implications and expectations.

What does it mean to be a father? What can you expect as someone's child?

I love the manner in which Royal Tenenbaums goes about exploring these familial relationships. Obviously it's a movie, and thus their family and story is quite extraordinary, but the basic elements of real, imperfect, human relationships are still very much present.

It's no secret I'm quite the fan of Mr. Anderson's style of film, and Tenenbaums is no exception. The visual details, the clever, surprising dialogue ("You heard me, Coltrane!")....I laugh out loud at this film, only to find myself tearing-up by the end.

And who doesn't enjoy just a good redemption story? Seeing someone able to change, or manage to redeem him/herself before it's "too late," always gives me just a little more hope for humanity. Hell, even just seeing someone make an effort at all is lovely.

But then if that same redemption story is narrated by Alec Baldwin?! Truly, what more can you ask for?!...

It's just an excellent film. Period. And don't even get me started on the soundtrack!!

I'm sure you've seen it, but if you haven't, obviously you should, if for no other reason than to see the creepy paintings that hang in Eli Cash's home. Or to see another cameo from eldest Wilson brother, Andrew. Or to hear Bill Murray say, "Where's that red one gonna go?"...



MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 5 out of 5 stars
Maybe save a little bit of your sandwich for Buckely? :)




Up next...
The Third Wheel

"It's been another kind of time"

Soul Survivors
2001
Day 278

When you first turn on a DVD of Soul Survivors, you'd better be prepared to make a very difficult decision:

Reality, Dream, or Nightmare.

It took longer for us to decide which path to chose than it did to watch the 10-second long, meaningless introduction that each of these labels describes.

...I'm not even going to pretend like I want to write about this movie. Instead, I will just leave you with my unassembled notes! (Yes, I do take notes.) Plus, I wouldn't dare want to ruin any of the movie's ingenious twists and surprises for you, or something....

As this film marked the second ever meeting of the Luke Wilson Merethon Review Panel, there were plenty of quotable remarks to be heard. Without further ado:

-Reality, Dream, Nightmare?

• We had to look up the differences online. Found out - only a difference of introduction. Nothing to do with actual movie version.
• "Vegetables have hit the floor."
• "I spit out my carrot!"

-Super cheese-y opening titles against a backdrop of simulated rain.

-"Tiny Explosions" - The Presidents of the USA

-"How long did we waste on that opening menu?"

-"Is that dinosaur-girl?"

-"Nobody gets branded and doesn't care..."

-"That was hairy!"

-"I'll go get your pills..." (x 100)

-"Even a dream of life is better than facing death." - Father Jude

-Jenna liked it.

-"So, Hell is a lesbian sex-bathroom in the basement of a church with cars burning outside for eternity?"

-"I think they made Casey Affleck sign a no-nudity clause in his contract."

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 2 out of 5 stars. 
"The best way to look at it is with your eyes closed." ...And with lots of sandwiches.



Up next...The Royal Tenenbuams

"What if you're trying to be something you are?"

Legally Blonde

2001

Day 252

First of all, I've really got to start writing these reviews closer to the time I actually watch these movies! It's going on a couple weeks now since I've watched this one, and though I'd seen it before, I found myself pleasantly surprised, as I'd all but forgotten that it's really quite a great flick.

Sure, it's a little silly, but it's also quite witty and very entertaining. Also entertaining was seeing Matthew Davis--aka VD's Alaric--as the evil ex-boyfriend, Warner. Definitely didn't remember that...

Serendipitously, this movie also happened to pop up in the Merethon just in time for Liz's last day as an L1 (Congrats again, Ms Lizzy!) Especially entertaining was the subsequent drinking-game for every law school or legal jargon inaccuracy. :) We learned a good deal!

We also concluded that CULA is not a real school, and that, for being in the 2000s, some of those outfits looked suspiciously mid-90s... I think we also definitely agreed that the whole "bend & snap" sequence is all a bit much. That scene really just deteriorates pretty quickly.

That aside, though, this movie is pretty much great! Good for a laugh, good for a girls'-night-in. Frankly, it's just good, clean fun.

I've not yet seen the sequel, but luckily, Mr. Wilson awaits us there, too...

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 4 out of 5 stars (an extra star for being surprisingly better than I remembered!)

Sandwiches permitted only with proper documentation (Stuewe v. Collins. 381 U.S. 436 (2011).

"This is like Soul Train's highest honor!"

Day 234
Charlie's Angels
2000

I really had zero desire to watch this movie.

I love that the main characters are strong, intelligent, lovely women, kicking ass and solving crime.....

Still definitely didn't want to see it.

Maybe I just wasn't in the right mood or frame of mind? Or maybe it was just a little too...something...

Or not enough something? Either way, it was definitely an improvement over Bad Seed!

There was definitely a plot. Even a reasonably complex one at that. And then there was the fairly expected "twist." Lots of fun outfits and neat-looking action sequences for our heroines.

Lots of quirky characters, too. Bill Murray--lovely as ever! Tom Green?....Not so much. I guess I have to remember this movie was made back when we'd only heard his shtick 1,000 times....

As for Mr. Wilson, I'd say he's not too far off on this character. He's quite lovely and love-able as the goofy, very naive love-interest to Ms. Diaz's Natalie.

I guess, truly, this movie really accomplished what it seemed to have set out to do; it was passably entertaining.

Not amazing. Not wonderful. Not life-changing. Just bright-colored, fast-moving, boob-filled fluff...

I've never even seen any of the original shows, but I'm apt to believe they were of a similar persuasion. If I really cared enough, I'd try to write something intelligent about women in film, etc., but maybe that's for a different blog...

Anyways, it's ok. Sometimes fluff is ok.

But only just 'ok'....

Also, loved the whole 15 second-long role of eldest Wilson, Andrew, as "Corwin's Driver." And ending the movie with Rod Stewart singing a Jimi Hendrix song?! Nice!

Good effort. Mission accomplished ladies! We'll see you again soon for round 2!

Maybe leave out Tom Green next time, though, ok? Thanks!

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 2 out of 5 stars
The LL Cool J "trick" sorta made me lose my appetite for anything, let alone sandwiches...

Up next...
Legally Blonde

"Jonathon?! That's your name?!"

Day 212
Bad Seed
2000


Well, that'll teach us to get our hopes up about an obscure Luke Wilson movie...

Bad Seed really sounded like it had potential. Like it might be scary, or thrilling. It was really just scary-bad. I think we each ranked it as being among the top 5 worst movies we've ever seen. Ever!! (My apologies to Liz for this being your first introduction to a Merethon screening :)

Truly even Dog Park suddenly seems loveable in the wake of this film. It was like a bad Lifetime movie. And that's coming from a woman who actually enjoys a lot of bad Lifetime movies. It was like a Lifetime movie reject, with "a lot of dead fish. Like--a lot..."

It also seemed to add proof to my theory that Mr. Wilson finds a reason in nearly eeevery film to say "Jeee-sus Christ!" at least once. Every time, with that same crazed intensity in his eyes mirroring the exasperated inflection of this decidedly favorite phrase....

If Kill the Man was the film to make this entire blog worthwhile, then Bad Seed is certainly (so far) the movie that almost makes me sorry to have undertaken this "merethon" at all. I can only hope that we've hit rock bottom here, folks. I hate to tempt fate, but surely it can't get worse than this.

I have to say, though, we did have a pretty great time adding our Mystery Science Theatre-esque commentary throughout. It at least gives you something to do while you're waiting for the movie to just end already! (Please dear gaawd, end!) Oh, but you haaaave to see the ending. Really, really. It's, um, totally worth it...?

Hahah, no. It's not. But if you're going to actually attempt to watch the film, (god knows why), you've really got to hold out for the ending. At least for the "special effects."

Ohh, and don't blink or you might miss the 5 second-long role of Andrew Wilson as "Police Officer."



MERE'S OFFICAL RATING: None. No stars for you. Just terrible!
Sandwiches strongly discouraged. I mean, really, one look at those fish....



Up next...
Charlie's Angels

"He's in a spiritual wheelchair?"

Day 202
Committed
2000


Why yes, I did find the movie poster in Spanish this time...

Ok, I've broken precedence once again and used a quote from a character other than Luke Wilson's from this film. Mostly because, as Jenna so aptly pointed out about 3/4 of the way through Committed, "I really like all the characters in this movie with the exception of Luke Wilson's."

The supporting cast truly makes this movie. They certainly provide the comic relief, if nothing else. Even creepy Casey Affleck (from whose character the title quote is taken and from whom most of the film's top quotes come) is quite entertaining, despite still being his usual, creepy self...

Now, I realize that we've finally made it out of the 90's, but this movie sure feels very much like a throw-back. Definitely on an aesthetic level, and perhaps also by fault of that whole "quest for spirituality" plot, too. There's just something so "90's" about all that...getting lost in the desert and what not.

In any case, I have to admit I enjoyed it. Heather Graham is not my favorite actress, but she's not terrible. And lucky for her, I think the plot and supporting cast were enough to, well, support her and keep the movie watchable.

I really didn't know how it was going to end either. It wasn't completely predictable and contrived. As Jenna also commented, "It comes full circle."

We also both thought writer/director, Lisa Krueger sounded familiar for some reason, but aside from Committed, she's only written and directed two other films, both of which I've never seen or heard of, and produced nothing else (according to Imdb.com) since Committed...However, after scouring the internet a little more, (Imdb fail!) I think she sounds pretty badass and could easily make more of these quirky little films with the best of them. I sort of hope she does, even...

Anyways, I enjoyed this film and definitely think it's worth a look. It's not too heavy, but not entirely soulless either. I mean, it's even got the lead singer of Everclear!

Alright. That's all I've got. Feel free to comment at will, JennaAnn!

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 3 out of 5 stars
A caution regarding sandwiches: Heather Graham's nasty hair will likely make you lose your appetite...

Pretty sure I'm going to have to start doing this more than once a month if I plan to finish in time....

Up next...
Bad Seed

"Bird-dog to Scarecrow, come in Scarecrow!"

Ok, so I just wanted to let you know that:

a) I am still alive and
b) I've not yet given up on the Merethon.

I just got caught up in the Oscars and the trip to Mexico, and then I couldn't find the next movie, Committed, aaanywhere. (Ok, I didn't check Hastings. I'm still pissed that they black-listed me there a few years back. To my knowledge, I'm still banned from renting anything from them. Thus, I'm in NO hurry to give them any of my money - They say I didn't return Ice Age. I say I did. 'Round and 'round it went....Jerks.)

Instead I've chosen to order the movie from Goodwill Industries of San Francisco through Amazon.com. According to their user description, my purchase of this DVD will help put people back to work via education and career services. I'm not sure how far my $5 will really go, but every little bit counts, right?

So yeah. Screw you, Hastings!

Anyways...Please stay tuned. More fun to come, I promise!

XOXO,
Meredith

"You think I don't know what folks are saying? That old Dink's a coward?"

Day 157
My Dog Skip
2000



Well folks, we've officially made it through the 90s. I'm so very sad to see them go, again, but they just weren't meant to last forever. And the Merethon must go on...

Leading us off in to the 2000s is My Dog Skip.

I must admit, I might sorta like this movie. It's not my favorite, and frankly, it's a bit too sentimental even for me...which is saying a lot. But it's certainly got something. Not everything, but something.

Dink Jenkins may be another for my list of all-time favorite Luke Wilson characters, though. I mean, it's hard not to love him. He's just that beautiful, ball-playing, good-natured, golden-boy-next-door (literally), who ships off to war, valiantly, like all the other good boys...And it just breaks your (my) heart when he comes back jaded, drunk and hopeless...

It all seems a bit...contrived, maybe? At any rate, I still think it's fairly poignant.

I've also got a soft spot for little Jack Russels. I don't think ours are nearly as talented as the one who plays Skip, but they're still pretty damn charming, when they want to be... But really, mostly, I think I've just got a soft spot for dogs in general. This movie could definitely strike a chord with anyone who's ever had a really amazing dog. I certainly have and I wish everyone were so lucky.

Well, I think that's enough. If ya like dags, maybe see this one. Or if you like sappy movies. Or movies with Kevin Bacon.




MERE'S OFFICAL RATING: 3 out of 5 stars
Leaving sandwich unattended within reach of dogs could result in sandwich scarcity.

Up next....
Committed (Yeah, I'm looking at you for this one, Liberty Hall...don't let me down! : )

"I don't think I've ever gotten all up on anything, sir."

Day 152
Blue Streak
1999



Ok, I have to be honest. I watched this movie once before, for the sake of the blog, but it was a long while ago and I don't remember it all that well. Though I had no desire to watch it again, I convinced myself that I must, in order to honor the blog and stay true to my quest to watch ALL of Mr. Wilson's movies before his 40th birthday.

However, when I went to the library to check it out, I searched for it on their computer system only to see its status listed as "Missing." Needless to say, I was...almost upset.

I've decided it was "divine intervention," or something, and will now just have to write about the movie from memory.

Shucks.

Contrary to my expectations, this movie wasn't completely terrible. It wasn't exactly good, either, though. It was watchable, I guess. There was a plot.

I was particularly disappointed with Mr. Wilson's character, though. He finally, almost comes through in the end, but it certainly feels like an unnecessarily long time coming.

There're also some winning scenes with Dave Chappelle, but...yeah, I think that's about it. See it. Don't see it. You probably won't lose any sleep either way.

MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 2 out of 5 stars.
"How's that sandwich coming?"*

Up next...
My Dog Skip

(*Matt just showed me that Dave Chappelle skit with Susan Sarandon a few weeks back to cheer me up when I was sick. Seeing as Chappelle's in the moive, it somehow seemed appropriate : )

"The only way we're gonna help our business is if we jog over there and set it on fire."

Day 107
Kill the Man
1998



Maybe I was just glad to no longer be completely bed-ridden and flu-stricken.

Or maybe, just maybe, this movie was worth every penny!! ($1.47 + shipping. Yes, the shipping was more expensive than the movie.)

Either way, thanks to the good people at Amazon.com and krbcommunications (whoever you are), I am now the proud owner of a VHS copy of Kill the Man. It arrived enclosed snugly in an awesome, old video rental store shell bearing a "New Release" sticker.

After viewing the movie, I'd have to say this introduction seemed all too appropriate. It was a stark reminder of the on-going (ever-growing?) game of Big Business versus the Little Guy, like the rental store I can only imagine this little gem came from. A good part of me likes to imagine it came from somewhere like Ardvark Video or...what was the name of that place on the Belt? Any help, St. Josephans? (St. Josephites?) Anyone? No?

Admittedly, I love Netflix as much as the next girl, but....


In any case, "renting a movie" just ain't what it used to be.

But back to the movie...I'm going to be really honest with you; I really liked this movie. A lot. I'm not sure what that says about me, and I'm not really even sure I care. The fact remains unchanged.

It was entertaining. I literally laughed out loud. And not in the "Wow, this movie is so bad, it's kinda funny"-sort of way, either! This movie actually, successfully entertained me. It even had that strange 90's-era-sway over me that makes me want to up and move to Seattle to serve coffee, work retail, start a band, or just walk around looking important. Oh the 90's...Well, and yeah, the movie is set in Seattle, so that might have contributed something, too...

Anyways, this movie has everything! Raps about Communism. Allusions to Greek mythology. A random deer. Even a wacky, inflatable arm-flailing-tube-man!

I'm willing to admit that perhaps the key to enjoying this movie was low expectations. Regardless, I still enjoyed it very much. It was my sincere hope that in the course of this blog I might chance upon just one, rare, perhaps altogether lost winner among the droves of films Mr. Wilson has worked on over the years. And maybe I'm speaking too soon, but I think this is the one! I even dare say this movie will have made the whole blog worthwhile, because I'm quite convinced I'd have never seen it otherwise, if for no other reason than its sheer lack of availability.

Truly, it was just sweet, simple and funny.

If nothing else, it cheered up this ill gal on an otherwise very dull day!

Let me know if you want to borrow my tape sometime : )


MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 4 out of 5 stars (...Oh, yes I did!)
Bring all of your favorite sandwiches along!




Up next...
Blue Streak