Last week, I watched three movies from Netflix. I also realized I’m more than likely not going to hit 30 movies by the end of July. Maybe half that amount. Life’s busy!

First, I watched Grindhouse: Death Proof, a 2007 movie with Rosario Dawson and Kurt Russell. It’s billed as an action/horror movie. I guess I didn’t view it as a horror flick, although a few scenes are a bit graphic. I really liked the cinematography. It had this “old movie” feel to it. Definitely has that Quentin Tarantino essence. Some parts are funny. Some parts are creepy. But the ending car chase is amazing. I’d give it 4 of 5 stars. Tagline: “It’s going to be a wild ride.” Yes, yes it is.

Next, I watched Vantage Point. I wanted to see this when it debuted in 2008 because I like Dennis Quaid and Forest Whitaker and because this is my kind of movie. Action-adventure told from varying points of view. It’s good, but I had it figured out as soon as the first “incident” occurred. I’d still give it 4 of 5 stars because I did enjoy it. Sigourney Weaver is way underused though. Tagline: “8 Strangers. 8 points of view. 1 Truth.” Perspective is everything.

Finally, I added this next movie to the list based on a recommendation from a Twitter friend. When Zachary Beaver Came to Town  is a heartwarming story about growing up and being accepted. Filming took place in 2003 and then it went on the film festival circuit and didn’t hit theaters until 2005. It will appeal to kids, maybe more than adults. It’s based on a YA novel, and very seldom do books translate to the screen and hold their magic. Unless it’s Harry Potter (which this isn’t). I’d give it 3.5 of 5 stars.

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OK, I’m a bit behind on posting my 30 Days of Movies.

A week ago, I watched Reviving Ophelia after we returned home from a day at the lake and hubby slept next to me while Lifetime showed the story based on Mary Pipher’s book.

I’ve only read excerpts of Pipher’s book, which takes a look at what it means to be adolescent in a grow-up-fast society. I wasn’t sure how that would translate to the screen.

What’s Good? The movie should open dialogue about dating violence and being a teen, in general. So much pressure. So many decisions. Too many influences.

What’s Bad? The acting, at times, feels overly dramatic. Or maybe I was overly tired when I watched it. It’s not a bad movie, by any means. The falling action to conclusion was a bit rushed though.

What’s Missing? I’m not sure anything is missing. I wonder how this movie would fare in a movie theater? I hope Pipher’s hard work – showing how teenage girls feel and fit in – isn’t diminished.

I’ll give this movie 3.5 of 5 stars.

Richard Gere plays a department of public safety administrator who abuses the sex crime perps he’s supposed to be monitoring. Because of his actions, he’s taking early retirement and training his replacement. Then, a girl goes missing and the hunt is on. His co-workers don’t believe him, but he drags along his replacement as they race against time to find the girl.

Released in 2007

What’s Good? Richard Gere! It’s a fast-paced action/adventure thriller with a few twists and turns.

What’s Bad? Why must movies always have an expected ending? Well, it’s not a completely happy ending, but it walks down the predicted path.

What’s Missing? The unexpected twist. I had this one figured out early. Yes, I’m that good.

3.5 of 5

Did this movie play in theaters? Movie release date – 2007. I absolutely enjoyed it. John Cusack plays a widower who decides to adopt a child. Cusack’s character also writes science fiction. The child he adopts believes he came from Mars.

What’s Good?Splendid story. It’s funny, dramatic, charming, disturbing. I could watch John Cusack every day. He’s delightful and this movie seems like a natural fit. And, there’s something about the cinematography. Brilliant colors pop on screen. Anjelica Huston’s scene is chilling and later heartwarming. And Joan Cusack always makes me smile.

What’s Bad? Amanda Peet is underused.She needs more to do, although I know she’s a minor character.

What’s Missing? The flip could be stronger. The twist is good, but it could be beefed up.

4 of 5 stars