Harkening back to those romantic comedies of the 1940’s, this movie was a fun viewing. Frances McDormand plays a dowdy, middle-aged, recently fired, ex-governess in London. When an American actress, played by Amy Adams, hires her to be her “social secretary,” Francis’ character spirals into a world of zany glamour. Amy and Frances were a hoot (yes, I said “hoot”) in this film, as they become a balancing act for each other in the craziness that pops up around them. Additionally, I got a kick out of seeing the art deco set designs and costumes.  For some old fashioned movie watching, I suggest you check this film out.

3 stars — DVD 

Make sure you drop off your brains at the ticket counter before seeing this movie. Nonsensical, unfunny, boring; the only bright spot–and we are talking on a dimmer switch here–was Alan Alda. Playing a wealthy financier who has been running a ponzi scheme (think Bernie Madoff), he agreed to take the condominium staff’s retirement fund, where he resides in the top floor penthouse. The staff, lead by Ben Stiller, find out and decide to take matters into their own hands. To help them in their plans, Ben’s character enlists the help of Eddie Murphy. Eddie coasted through this film. Doing the same act he was doing when the Pointer Sisters sang “Neutron Dance” for his film “Beverly Hills Cop,” it was stale. Take a pass on this movie, you will not regret it.

1 1/3 stars

This being the year of Ryan Gosling, it all started here. Ryan as the smooth alpha stud, becomes the mentor to Steve Carell, just as Steve’s life goes into crisis mode, when his wife tells him she wants a divorce. The script is smart and I actually laughed out loud in places. Besides Ryan Gosling, the other bright star of the movie was Emma Stone. A fun movie with well crafted scenes.

3 stars