Here it is, only November and I’m already anticipating the excitement of the Oscar Awards, which don’t even take place until late February. Movies like 3:10 to Yuma and Michael Clayton have piqued the interest of critics and Oscar predictors alike. Additionally, the film Into the Wild is also causing award-show buzz and, as I see it, for good reason.

Into the Wild adapts the Jon Krakauer book of the same name. Both the film and the book recount the strange real-life tale of Christopher McCandless. McCandless grew up in a wealthy family and later graduated with honors from Emory University in the early 90′s. However, due to problems with his family and what he saw as the excesses of society, McCandless abandoned his comfortable life and took to the road. He donated away his $24,000 life savings and assumed the name “Alexander Supertramp.” Subsequently, he hitchhiked across the U.S., making stops in California, Mexico and, interestingly, South Dakota. Two years after he started his adventure, McCandless ended up in the Alaskan wilderness where he lived for months in a bus but then died a mysterious death, possibly due to starvation.

The story sounds interesting enough, but this movie flourishes for many more reasons than that. The film was directed by Sean Penn and stars an able cast, including Emile Hirsch, Vince Vaughn, Marcia Gay Harden, and Catherine Keener. Penn and Hirsch (as McCandless) together do an amazing job of portraying the hauntingly emotional story of this lost soul who really didn’t know what he was fighting against. While Into the Wild is roughly 2

Admittedly, not every movie fan appreciates a western. Some people are just not comfortable with main street shootouts, saloon girls, crooked law enforcement and annoyingly stoic cowboys. I, however, definitely am not one of those people. I have always loved that good ol’ genre, and therefore had to see the new western 3:10 to Yuma.

The movie follows the stories of two very different men. First, we have Dan Evans, a poor rancher who is struggling to scrape by with his family in unforgiving Arizona. The other player is Ben Wade, a ruthless outlaw who, along with his gang, robs and kills. Dan and Ben’s worlds unexpectedly collide when wary Pinkerton agents capture Ben. Because he is so down on his luck, Dan volunteers to help escort Ben to the prison train in Yuma for a few hundred dollars. Several shootouts and horse chases follow as the pair make their way across Arizona.

The premise sounds ordinary enough. However, 3:10 to Yuma really comes alive thanks to its amazing cast. Christian Bale, the latest Batman, plays Dan, the desperate rancher. Bale plays Dan in such a way that I was both annoyed with his various ineptitudes and increasingly sympathetic concerning his family situation. Ben is portrayed by the always competent Russell Crowe. Like Bale, Crowe makes his character intriguingly complex. You don’t know whether to root for Ben’s escape or his incarceration. Together, Bale and Crowe become two desperate men who have more in common than they realize as they battle both mentally and physically. Other characters include the legendary Peter Fonda and a cameo by Luke Wilson.

3:10 to Yuma shoots its way out of being a clich

A human shooting star, a gay pirate and a youth-obsessed witch all add to the silliness that is the adventure fantasy movie entitled Stardust. When I heard a review that touted Stardust as a blend of The Princess Bride, Willow and Lord of the Rings, the movie became a must-see for me, considering I love all of the above-mentioned films. All things considered, Stardust was not as amazing as any of those three movies, but was fun enough for frivolous entertainment.

The movie is set in England in the not-so-distant past. Young Tristan hopes to entice the beautiful Victoria to marry him with little success. When he sees a falling star, Tristan vows to bring the star to Victoria in order to gain her love. He sets off to find the star, throwing himself into a world of danger and adventure. Tristan soon discovers that the star is actually a young woman named Yvain who puts him in danger of losing both his heart and his life. Along the way, Tristan and Yvain face vengeful witches, a band of confused pirates and a family of dead but dangerous princes.

To say the least, Stardust features an exciting, all-star ensemble cast. Claire Danes shines as the star Yvain, partially because her hair is blindingly white-blonde. Michelle Pfeiffer portrays the archetypal wicked witch and sells it just as well as she did in Hairspray. Robert De Niro steps out to play the flamboyant, gay pirate. Other characters include gorgeous newcomer Charlie Cox, Peter O’Toole and funny man Ricky Gervais.

Stardust was generally funny and whimsical enough to make me overlook its dopiness. The humor is reminiscent of The Princess Bride. Robert De Niro dancing around a pirate ship in a corset and petticoats garners belly laughs. A few short scenes with Ricky Gervais, the creator of the British The Office, also make the movie worth seeing. The seven undead princes add hilarious commentary throughout the adventure as well.

Ultimately, Stardust may not become a classic like Lord of the Rings or The Princess Bride, but it definitely is worth a look. The movie thrills, amuses and frightens. Hitch a shooting star to the theatre, and catch Stardust before it fades away.

I’m not sure how many movies I saw in theatres this summer? too many to count, probably. However, I am positive about which was my favorite. I liked Transformers and undeniably enjoyed Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. But above everything I saw in the last several months, I absolutely, positively LOVED the movie Hairspray.

This new version of Hairspray has been a long time in coming to the screen. Way back in 1988, John Waters wrote and directed the original kitschy version of “Hairspray.” Then in 2002, the film became a Broadway musical and enjoyed a Tony-winning run. Now, much to my delight, the musical version was adapted into a feature film.

Hairspray was fabulous for several reasons. First, the story is fun and yet incredibly poignant. It takes place in Baltimore in the 1960′s. Main character Tracy Turnblad pines to dance on the “Corny Collins Show” and isn’t dissuaded by her plus-size physique. However, Tracy soon learns to use her talents to not only help herself but her friends in light of brewing racial tensions in Baltimore.

Also, the cast is perfect as it incorporates several big names and new talents. Queen Latifah, John Travolta and Michelle Pfeiffer are all old hats in musicals and do a great job, especially Travolta who plays Tracy’s larger than life mother. Zac Efron, hottie from High School Musical, perfectly plays the singing, dancing hunk that all the girls love. Newcomer Nikki Blonsky portrays Tracy with a mix of sweetness and sassiness that makes her wonderfully endearing.

Another major reason I loved Hairspray was due to its amazing energy. I don’t think I’ve ever been in a theatre where people more clearly enjoyed a movie. Viewers guffawed, clapped, snapped their fingers, tapped their toes and in many cases were pretty darn close to getting up and dancing. The music was so powerful that simply being in the theatre was a pleasure for all of us.

I know I wasn’t the only one who enjoyed Hairspray. After I saw the movie the first time, I tried to buy the soundtrack at Wal-Mart. It took me three weeks before I could snag a copy of the constantly sold-out CD, and I haven’t stop singing since. Rush out and grab your own copy soon. Or better yet, head to the theatre and see Hairspray. If you have a funny bone or a heart, you won’t be disappointed.

For me, this summer was terrific considering not one, but two major Harry Potter events occurred. I refer of course to the release of the fifth film Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and the much anticipated seventh and final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Because these were such huge happenings to Potter fans and basically the world in general, I believe they deserve another look and a final farewell.

Warning: Plot details revealed

The movie Order of the Phoenix was released about ten days before the book, successfully building up anticipation for fans. Honestly, after I saw the movie the first time, I wasn’t sure I liked it very well. It is dark and often depressing and shows Harry at his most angst-ridden. The movie is the shortest out of all the films despite being the longest book. There is no Quidditch to speak of, very little Ron Weasley and not much of Harry’s first crush.

However, when I went to Order of the Phoenix a second and, yes, third time, the strong areas of the movie became more obvious. Daniel Radcliffe, who plays Harry, is becoming an amazing actor. There are some incredibly moving scenes, such as those with Harry and his doomed godfather Sirius and those featuring the quirky Luna Lovegood. The actresses who play Luna and evil Ministry of Magic employee Delores Umbridge are fantastic. Also, the final climactic scene in the Ministry is visually and emotionally stunning.

Even though the two were not consecutive in the series, the film bridged nicely to the final book The Deathly Hallows. Regardless if you camped out in a book store overnight or bought a copy a few days later, you were only one of millions. After the final page was turned, some readers loved the tale, while others were disappointed. I personally enjoyed the book even though it was not my favorite in the series. I liked how Rowling put so much power in the hands of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. They deserved the chance to fight unhindered by the adults around them. The new information on Dumbledore made a godlike man seem more human and understandable. The subtle romances were a nice side story. I sobbed as Harry was led to the forest by his dead loved ones to face a martyr’s death.

While I overall enjoyed The Deathly Hallows, a few aspects were bothersome. The action was rather start/stop and became sluggish at times. The Deathly Hallows plot involving so many wands and people at times confused me. Harry and Voldemort’s final battle seemed a little anticlimactic after years of build-up, while the epilogue, though endearing, was possibly too tidy and whimsical.

Regardless of slight flaws I saw in the movie or book, I still believe that the Harry Potter franchise is remarkable not just for the enchanting world it brought us, but also for what is has done for society. Over the years, J.K. Rowling single-handedly inspired millions to pick up books in an era where reading for pleasure is often unheard of. For that feat alone she deserves praise and respect.

I love summer beyond any other season, not only because of no classes, nice weather and barbecued food. Summer also features some of the biggest and best movies of the entire year. This is when studios unveil the movies that will pay salaries for the rest of the year. Officially, the summer movie season begins in May, which is just around the corner. Since it’s difficult to plan your entire summer movie marathon, I will give you a preview of three big blockbusters coming up in May.

The biggest movies are continuations of franchises that we have previously loved. May 4 brings the well-chiseled Tobey Maguire back to the screen in “Spider-Man 3.” Spidey fans have long been anticipating this movie as trailers seem to promise just as many thrills as the first two flicks with the addition of that menacing black suit. His personality will also reportedly turn much darker, indicating a psychologically thrilling twist. New stars will also join Spidey for this go-round. Topher Grace, Thomas Haden Church and Bryce Dallas Howard star as bad-guys and an old flame. It looks to be steamy.

May 18 will bring back the largest, greenest and most likable ogre to ever grace the screen. “Shrek the Third” looks to follow the two previous Shrek installments in that it will be sassy and smart entertainment that offers fun for everyone. The story here involves Shrek’s woes as he attempts to rule Far Far Away. He knows the job is not for him and thus sets off to find another heir to the throne. Look for a King Arthur-ish twist that should also be interesting. Characters such as Puss-in-Boots, Donkey and Charming will also be back to add to the enjoyment.

Last and not least for the big franchise flicks … get ready to say hello and maybe goodbye to Captain Jack Sparrow on May 25. The third (and maybe not final) film in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series will soon set sail. “At World’s End” will feature the crew of the Black Pearl trying to save that crazy Jack Sparrow from the jaws of death. The trailers also indicate a pirate gathering of monumental proportions for our entertainment. Also, we will finally find out if Will and Elizabeth end up together or if Jack steals her away. Swashbuckling fun awaits.

Whether you love or loath these three franchises, they will definitely promise fun for fans and big bucks for studios. Of course, there are many smaller movies that will no doubt prove to be more thought-provoking than Spidey, Shrek or Captain Jack. Whatever the case, plan to be in theatres this May.

Apparently, 95 percent of humans watch “Grey’s Anatomy.” Admitting that you do not is close to blasphemy in many circles. Since I haven’t written on the subject in a few weeks, I feel that it is necessary to enlighten you on recent developments.

Recently, “Grey’s Anatomy” was renewed for a fourth season by ABC. Umm, I don’t think that was ever in question, considering it is by far ABC’s biggest primetime show. It has even consistently has beaten “CSI” in ratings. Considering the powerhouse that “CSI” has been for the past several years, this is a significant accomplishment.

In another new development, the “Grey’s” cast also appears to be getting along. Almost a year after Isaiah Washington’s (Dr. Burke) homophobic rant against a fellow cast member, the atmosphere on the set has reportedly improved. Also, the entire cast signed on for next season with substantial pay raises. This comes after Katherine Heigl (Izzie) felt she was being so underappreciated that she was thinking about not renewing her contract.

Finally, on to the most exciting news coming out of Seattle Grace Hospital: the upcoming “Grey’s Anatomy” spin-off. This May, ABC will air a special two-hour episode of “Grey’s” that will serve as a pilot for the spin-off “Private Practice.” The spin-off will be based on Dr. Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh), “Grey’s” present OB/GYN. She will apparently move her practice out of Seattle, possibly to Los Angeles. Other stars for the new show are reportedly Taye Diggs (from “Rent”) and Amy Brenneman (from “Judging Amy”).

I am very excited for this new show. I have long thought that Addison was underappreciated on “Grey’s.” Admittedly, when you’re an adulteress wife who splits up a beloved TV couple such as Meredith and McDreamy, you may face a little hostility. However, this past season, Addison has developed into an intriguing and misunderstood character who could definitely use a little more screen time.

Hopefully, the current success of “Grey’s” is an indication of a bright future for “Private Practice” and our favorite baby doctor. However, there is always a chance that it could nosedive after characters detach themselves from what the public originally loved. (Remember “Joey?”)

Let’s just hope the spin-off can emulate “Grey’s Anatomy’s” accomplishments while not leaving us sick to our stomachs.

The passion. The power. The world of competitive figure skating. In my opinion, not enough people appreciate this beautifully athletic activity. Figure skating has long been my favorite winter sport and the best Olympic event created. Recently, this majestic sport received the Will Ferrell sports-spoof treatment with the movie “Blades of Glory” and lucky for you, I was there, hanging on every Will’s every prank.

You may have heard of figure skating greats such as Michelle Kwan, Nancy Kerrigan and Brain Boitano. But have you ever witnessed the brilliance of men’s skaters Chazz Michael Michaels and Jimmy MacElroy? “Blades of Glory” follows the story of skaters Michaels, played by Ferrell, and MacElroy, played by Jon Heder (a.k.a. Napoleon Dynamite), who have been kicked out of the sport after a brawl involving a burning mascot. When their lives hit rock bottom, Michaels and MacElroy, who were once rivals, realize they must work together to reenter the world of skating. However, they make their comeback as the first ever male-male pairs team. Hilarity and an excess of spandex soon follow.

This film is silly, ridiculous and unbelievable. It is in no way an accurate portrait of figure skating, despite cameos by many world-famous skaters. All this said, I still admit that “Blades of Glory” is funny, with several moments approaching hilarious. Will Ferrell displays his regular comic genius. His character oozes charisma and sexiness that a chunky guy in shiny red spandex cannot possibly possess. If you are a fan of other Ferrell flicks such as “Talladega Nights” and “Kicking and Screaming,” you will no doubt enjoy “Blades of Glory.”

However, while I always appreciate Will Ferrell, Jon Heder made the movie for me. He takes everything that was great about Napoleon Dynamite, polishes it up with lip gloss and glitter and makes it fly on the ice. Heder’s perpetual naivet

As I have often complained about in this very column, some of the best movies released are rather difficult to see in our area. Many critically acclaimed films may not stay in our local theatres for long, if they appear at all. Hopefully, you are patient enough to wait for worthwhile films to come out on DVD. Recently, several good movies been released on DVD, including the must-see films “Blood Diamond” and “Children of Men.”

“Blood Diamond” is a violently poignant film that explores the timely issue of conflict diamonds in Africa. The movie was nominated for several Academy Awards including for actors Leonard DiCaprio and Djimon Hounsou (also seen in “Gladiator”). DiCaprio plays a diamond smuggler who originally appears to be concerned with no one and nothing other than reaping the benefits from the war-torn continent. Hounsou is a simple peasant who is torn from his family and forced to work in the dangerous diamond mines. DiCaprio and Hounsou eventually pair up to hunt for a huge diamond that will lead them both to their goals. Jennifer Connelly also stars in “Blood Diamond” as an American journalist who strives to raise awareness of Africa’s desperate situation through her literary talents.

This film is not only pertinent to the times we live in, but it is also emotionally compelling. The performances by all the actors are very good, even if Leo’s South African accent is slightly questionable. “Blood Diamond” is very violent, but only rightly so. Overall, this movie is forceful and a worthwhile picture for lovers of hard-hitting films.

In the same vein, “Children of Men” is also a fabulously thought-provoking movie. The film explores futuristic England in the year 2027. The world’s population faces imminent extinction because the human race has lost the ability to procreate. “Children of Men” stars the always entertaining Clive Owen as the protector of a young woman who is mysteriously pregnant. This woman and her baby become the hope of humankind even as they flee from conniving radicals.

“Children of Men” was directed by Alfonso Cuar

Once in a while, I need to go to a scary movie in order to remind myself that, yes indeed, I still do not like scary movies. This is what I expected when I went to “Zodiac” recently. I predicted a scary flick that I was going to regret seeing and pay for by being so frightened that I need to carry a bat around constantly. However, “Zodiac” was much more than a mindless horror-fest and instead proved to be an intriguing thriller.

If you’ve heard anything about “Zodiac,” you probably heard that it is based on true events. More precisely, the film is based on two non-fiction books written by Robert Graysmith who worked at the San Francisco Chronicle during the events in question. The Zodiac killer terrorized California in the late 1960s, murdering at least five people. During his reign of terror, the Zodiac kept the country enthralled by sending letters and cryptograms to newspapers and police. Most frighteningly, the Zodiac was never caught, leaving the case open to this day in several California counties.

Clearly, the story sounds like the stuff of nightmares and would make for an interesting movie. Although the story has been made into film before, the most recent version stands on its own. Consequently, I enjoyed this movie for several reasons.

First, I was pleased that “Zodiac” was much more of a psychological thriller than a horror flick. Oh, there were definitely a few gruesome moments and bloody spectacles, but these added to the mystery of the film’s true motives. Instead, the movie was more about the people surrounding the Zodiac who became obsessed with the criminal, including cops, journalists and average joes. For me, delving into the psyches of these people was more compelling than a gory movie that only succeeds in scaring the audience.

“Zodiac” was also very well-acted. The always-hot Jake Gyllenhaal plays Robert Graysmith, the author of the books the film is based on. Although the movie took too long to get into this angle, Gyllenhaal brilliantly plays Graysmith as a man so obsessed with the Zodiac that he seems to become a victim himself, losing his job, family and nearly sanity to chase the killer. Mark Ruffalo is the cop in charge of the case who becomes equally obsessed with the Zodiac but kind of fades into the background as Gyllenhaal’s character takes over. Another standout performance comes from Robert Downey, Jr. He plays the tortured Chronicle crime reporter whose is also destroyed by the Zodiac mystery. Downey, Jr. as an alcoholic druggy, oddly enough, always rings true.

Although “Zodiac” seemed to drag and meander at times, it was worth seeing. It was well-acted, intriguing and exciting enough to keep my attention for most of its two-and-a-half hours. “Zodiac” will have you speculating if such a killer could be lurking in America, while at the same time still allowing you to sleep at night.