Having seen none of these contenders (ignorance is bliss, right?), I'm looking forward to both, even though Pixar is so far ahead its competition, they could release a really bad movie, and people will still flock to theaters. Oh, the power of past performances. To be honest, I am getting tired of the onslaught of all the super-hero movies recently, but if it's done well, why not emprace it. In fact, this movie not only faces Holiday releases competition, but also the general backlash to superheroes, 'cause I'm sure other people would think "oh, not another superhero film", and will disregard it. But, I'm just speculating, let me see it for myself, and report afterwards.

As for Alfie - I realyl liked the original, but just like "The Graduate", it belongs to a completely different time, and you cannot play it straight with today's culture - a confident playboy who's having an identity crisis wouldn't work today - I'm pretty sure people would immediately label him as a predator, and won't be able to sympathize with his struggle later. But, as a moral story, it should work well - look at "Phone Booth".

Of course, if you pass on these two, you'll be left with all kinds of remakes (The Grudge, Shall We Dance, Ladder 49). Meanwhile, the really good films that are out right now (Saw, Team America, Ray, Garden State) will be slowly phased out of theaters, not because of their quality, but simply because of holiday overcrowding of releases. Of well, that's the whole point of this little site - to remind people about the little flicks (along with the big budget productins) that are still competing for two hours of your time.

Speaking of recently seen movies - Garden State is indeed an uplifting, positive experience, despite its subject matter, and Team America is more "fair and balanced" than you would expect. Full of toilet humour, but right on the money with its commentary on celebrities, politicians and terrorists.

Stay tuned on both reviews(maybe I'll even throw in a clip or a sound bite - both flicks have wonderful soundtracks). And, in case you're wondering - yes I would rather spend my money on filthy, dirty offensive flick that's truly funny and entertaining (Team America) than a "based on a true story", overblown, politically-correct drivel that's afraid to make unpopular statements, and take a stand on the issues (Friday Night Lights, or Ladder 49). Sentiment and sensitivity are only good, if there's a purpose, or a message in them.

Maybe that last little part was a bit too much, but have you seen the crowds going into these "football" and "firemen" flicks? Honestly, people, why not watch "The Program" or "The Guys" - better films, that obviously tanked at the box office.

-Charlie