Hawking (2004)

I first saw Benedict Cumberbatch in the BBC TV show "Sherlock" and decided to look up what else he'd done. In this made-for-TV movie, he does an *excellent* job playing Stephen Hawking in the early days of his diagnosis. The movie's writer, Peter Moffat, also wrote the fairly-entertaining Einstein and Eddington, but the writing is sharper and more interesting in this older one. Well worth checking out for fans of biographies, science stories, or Benedict Cumberbatch. 4 stars.

Biloxi Blues (1988)

As far as Neil Simon comedies go, this one feels unusually...not-comedic. It's a much more dramatic story for Simon. And while it has heart (as all his plays do) something falls a bit short. Maybe I was just expecting too much, since Simon is one of my all-time favorite writers. It was enjoyable, but nothing special. 3 stars.

Notes on a Scandal (2006)

Judi Dench is what makes this movie. She takes on a somewhat terrifying role as a woman manipulating her "friendships" to get what she wants out of them. The dialogue is well-written, the story compelling, and the rest of the actors (Bill Nighy in particular) do a great job. Overall, a very solid movie. 4 stars.

Fifth of July (1982)

This is clearly a very, very good play. However, not so good a movie adaptation. The editing is awkward, making it seem stilted and choppy, rather than the flowing nature of a theatrical production. The acting is all very good, however. If I ever got an opportunity to see the play, I would certainly take it. But I wouldn't go out of my way to see the movie again. 3.5 stars.

The Savages (2007)

Good acting, good writing, and solid direction... Somehow it all feels a bit flat, although I can't put my finger on exactly how or where. However, it's still a good watch and is worth seeing. 3.5 stars.

American History X (1998)

As far as I'm concerned, Edward Norton can do no wrong. He has been amazing in everything he's been in. The interesting thing is, a story like this is basically a reformed sinner story and could have been absolutely ridiculous - very corny, very cheesy. But the dialogue somehow managed to be realistic. Edward Norton's performance was fantastic - completely believable every step of the way. This movie is well worth seeing. 4 stars.

Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical (2001)

Oh, boy. David Hasselhoff is not a good actor and not a good singer and does not belong in this show at all. I giggled all the way through "Confrontation." It was that bad. I like the musical itself. It's got some wonderful, wonderful songs in it, but anyone who knows me knows that I'm not a fan of Leslie Bricusse's lyrics. The rest of the cast is pretty good, aside from the fact that they couldn't keep their British accents intact. Hasselhoff was the worst, though. He was clearly put in the show just for star draw, and he ended up being very hammy... and unfortunately, he has the bulk of the show. Any part he was in was pretty much ruined. 2 stars.