Back to School Movies for September!

Back to school season...new pencils, new teachers, new books, tons of new clothes...September can be stressful for school-goers (and parents!) of all ages. So what better way to relax than to sit back and watch movies about other people stressing about school? Here's our list of 30 back-to-school films, one for each day in September!

1) Mean Girls- Comedy, PG-13
2) Clueless-Comedy, PG-13
3) Schoolhouse Rock: Earth-Kids, NR
4) Dead Poet's Society-Drama, PG
5) Diary of a Wimpy Kid-Kids New Release Wall, PG
6) Accepted-Comedy, PG-13
7) American Graffiti-Comedy, PG
8) Hairspray-Musical, PG
9) Grease-Musical, PG
10) Animal House-Comedy, R
11) Assassination of a High School President- Comedy, R
12) Back to School-Comedy, PG-13
13) The Breakfast Club-Drama, R
14) Bring It On-Comedy, PG-13
15) College-Comedy, R
16) Freaky Friday- Kids, G (1976 version)/PG (2003 version)
17) Princess Diaries-Kids, G
18) Legally Blonde-Comedy, PG-13
19) High School Musical-Kids, G
20) Harry Potter-Kids, PG (parts 1, 2, 3, & 6)/PG-13 (parts 4 & 5)
21) The Skulls-Mystery, PG-13
22) 17 Again-Comedy, PG-13
23) Cruel Intentions-Mystery, R
24) Buffy the Vampire Slayer-Comedy, PG (movie)/Television, NR (TV show)
25) The Faculty- Horror, R
26) 10 Things I Hate About You-Comedy, PG-13
27) Not Another Teen Movie- Comedy, R
28) Pleasantville-Comedy, PG-13
29) Good Will Hunting- Drama, R
30) Superbad-Comedy, R

Be sure to check out these titles and more, all available at our MacArthur store!

-Posted by Colleen

The Red Shoes

As you may or may not know, the all-time epitome of dance movies, The Red Shoes, has just recently been re-released, with new color enhancement. (And it's gorgeous!) In honor of this fantastic movie (located on our New Release wall), here is a list of what are (in my humble opinion) the all-time greatest dance movies, all available at our MacArthur store.

White Nights-Mikhail Barishnokov and Gregory Hines star in this political drama set in Russia in 1985. Barishnokov plays a dancer who defected from Russia and has the misfortune to be in a plane that crashes on Russian soil, leaving him trapped. He is housed in Siberia with Raymond (Hines), a Vietnam draft dodger who tap dances for his meager living. Together they manage to escape the Soviets and perform some great numbers along the way. Great pick for those who love dance movies but want something with a little more substance than say, Step Up 2 the Streets.

Dirty Dancing- Who doesn't love this classic dance flick? Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray star in this legendary film about upper-middle-class teenager Baby Houseman (Gray) who is swept off her feet (literally and figuratively) by the charming dance teacher Johnny (Swayze). You'll be singing and dancing along with them as they have the time of their life at a resort in the Catskills.

Center Stage-This film is the traditional classic dance movie personified. Jody Sawyer (Amanda Schull) is a dance hopeful who is admitted to the prestigious American Ballet Company training academy. She experiences failure, love, and heartbreak as she struggles to find her place in the dance world. With fantastic dance sequences and a strong supporting cast (including Zoe Saldana, Susan May Pratt, Peter Gallagher, and New York City Ballet star Ethan Stiefel), this is a film you should definitely check out!

Hairpsray-Not just a dance flick but a full-on musical, this re-make of the hit 80's movie is sure to warm your heart. Tracy Turnblad (played by Nikki Blonsky) has a big dream to dance on the Cornie Collins Show-a dream that's almost bigger than her. Eventually, she charms her way into the show and into the hearts of the citizens of Baltimore and becomes a local celebrity. But she's not done yet-she uses her fame to help fight for civil rights. With an all-star cast, including John Travolta (as Tracy's mother!), Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, Michelle Pfieffer, Queen Latifah, and Zac Efron, this is a film you can watch over and over with the whole family.

Ziegfeld's Follies-Though not entirely a dance film, this collection of classic vignettes includes musical numbers, comedy sketches, and beautiful dance numbers. With some of early cinema's biggest stars, including Fred Astaire, Lucille Ball, Judy Garland, and Lena Horne, this film is a must-see for fans of movies musicals.

Holiday Inn-Starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, this classic family film about a hotel only open on holidays is sure to make you smile. With a soundtrack filled with well-known songs, such as "Easter Parade" and "White Christmas" and dance sequences featuring Fred Astaire and Marjorie Reynolds, this film is a great selection to watch with the family.

-Posted by Colleen

Movies For The Kids You Won't Have to Suffer Through

It's Friday night, and like so many parents of the DC metro area, you bring your child along to Potomac Video with you for a bit of digital entertainment.  Whatever keeps them quiet, right?  Much to your chagrin, your son heads right away for the Pokemon shelf, in search of the elusive volume 16B he hasn't seen yet.  While as a parent you enjoy spending time with your child no matter what, you wish somehow there was more common ground-- that you could actually enjoy watching a film with your child AND feel like he is taking away some sort of valuable lesson, no matter how trivial.  The following list, comprised solely of films rated PG and G, is here to help.

1.  The Addams Family
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's crazy, cooky, and campy.  All the elements of "frivolous" children's fantasy are present, but, unbeknown to them, the execution is superior.
Why You'll Like It: Anjelica Huston, Christina Ricci, Christopher Lloyd, and Joan Cusack round out an all-star cast that enchants on-screen.  The subtlety of some humor is more adult-targeted, and, at the end of the day, the film demonstrates that even people who look and act different can be kind.

2. Casper
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Casper is cute, innocent, and gets himself into youthful trouble.  Your kids will squeal with delight as he accidentally fries himself sunny side up like an egg.  His ghostly uncles provide much of the comic relief, with Stinky have such potent breath he can induce fainting and Fatso emitting such hefty flatulence no child can help but laugh.  The scenery in the film, most of all the magic machine, is sure to impress any
Why You'll Like It: The film is parody rich, and the references to Ghostbusters, The Exorcist, and the Terminator are a silent nod to you, the adult viewer.  The film is a classic depiction of good triumphing over evil and tackles the issue of single parenthood following the death of a spouse.

3.  Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Based off of best-selling book series, your children are no doubt already curious about this film.  Diary of a Wimpy Kid taps into the world of children and tackles the ever-popular subject of fitting in in a way that is all at once lighthearted, meaningful, and appropriate.  Your kids will laugh as the "wimpy kids" have to challenge the "gorillas" in a game of capture the flag, and shake their heads as the main character temporarily loses his sense of self in pursuit of popularity.
Why You'll Like It: The film teaches a clear-cut lesson on what is important during the oh-so confusing time that is middle school.  You will laugh along with your child as the legend of the Cheese Touch Unfolds and as Greg accidentally pees on his older brother, the hostile singer of awful garage band, Loded Diaper.  The film is evocative of The Wonder Years, but more child-friendly, and with a bit more toilet humor.

5.  E.T.
I will admit, when my dad showed me this movie at age four, it terrified me (and my mother subsequently suffered for many, many nights), so you might want to reserve the viewing of this film for older kids, as real youngsters might find parts of the film overwhelming.  For me, it was the scene in which E.T. falls into the river and turns white with hypothermia, shortly thereafter ending up on a ventilator and in a body bag.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: E.T. is cute.  He waddles around and eats Reese's Pieces, and Elliott, with his unwavering determination to help his other-worldly friend and flying bike is a hero to all children who ever dreamed of the impossible.  Your kids will feel excitement as Elliott and his siblings try to keep their friend a secret from their seemingly clueless mother, and sit on the edge of their seats as E.T. has close encounters with death and with the authorities.
Why You'll Like It: Spielberg made it.  It's a classic film about the goodness of a child and the power of determination, and the special effects were ground-breaking for the time.
Fun Fact: When building the animatronic E.T. puppet, Spielberg looked through photographs of famous people to incorporate distinctive features into the alien.  The little guy's trademark wide, gentle eyes were inspired by Albert Einstein's.


6.  Fly Away Home
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Baby geese are really cute.  Who could not have a soft spot for baby geese?  Additionally, the heroine of the film goes on to lead a cross-country flight with her father, and children will find the visuals both enjoyable and empowering.
Why You'll Like It: This film again deals with the topic of single parenthood, in particular the theme of an under-enthused young girl being raised by the father with whom she is not very close.  By the film's end, however, the relationship foraged between them is strong and both characters have grown tremendously.  The film is also visually impressive, feeling much more like a made-for-adults drama than a children's film.  And they save the animals.  Who could not like it?  Jeff Daniels and Anna Paquin Star.

7.  The Goonies
Why Your Kids Will Like It: There is not much for your kids to dislike in this classic 80's film, which, coincidentally, has risen to cult status among aficionados since its release.  The Goonies live in a quirky world where everything is an adventure, and, on the quest to save their house, encounter a bit of humor and danger.
Why You'll Like It: Written by Steven Spielberg, this film moves at an adult pace and the stark comic value of certain elements will tickle you.  Watch out for the fat Goonie, Chunk, being made to do the "Truffle Shuffle," a belly-bearing jiggle, before he is allowed entry into the homes of his fellow Goonies.  If you or your children have never seen this one, place it high on your list of future rentals, as it will not disappoint.
A Small Disclaimer: There is one scene containing a skeleton among the ruins of pirate treasure.

8.  Hachi
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Hachi is really just too cute, and his loyalty is moving, even for the youngest of viewers.  Your kids will delight in seeing Hachi meet Gere's character around town, and the lengths he goes to to be with his master.
Why You'll Like It: It's innocent, moving, and shows a new side of Richard Gere.  Truly a beautiful film about the love a man and a dog can share.
A Small Disclaimer: Have the tissues ready.

9.  Hook
Why Your Kids Will Like It: A whimsical twist on the classic Peter Pan story, the visuals in Hook will have your kids mesmerized.  Something about taking the narrative out of the context of a cartoon and into live action makes the elusive Neverland that much more enchanting.
Why You'll Like It: In addition to the same reasons as your children, you will take particular delight in seeing appearances from Julia Roberts, Robin Williams, a highly caricatured Dustin Hoffman, and even Phil Collins.

10.  Labyrinth
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Labyrinth takes Place in a magical world guaranteed to be unlike anything your kids have ever seen in film so far.  Filmed in the era before CGI was prevalent, puppeteer/director Jim Henson truly outdid himself in this one.  The visuals alone will have your kids watching this one over and over again.
Why You'll Like It: Aside from the fact that it stars Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie and features a few awesome musical numbers (and trust me, I loathe musicals... but then again I love Bowie), you will appreciate Sarah's determination to save her baby brother and the incredible amount of growing up she does under pressure.  This film is truly enjoyable for people of all ages, and is one of our shift staples here in the MacArthur store.

11.  A Little Princess

***This movie will probably be better suited for watching with young girls.

Why Your Kids Will Like It: Adapted from the novel and influenced by the 1939 version starring Shirley Temple, A Little Princess is an escape into a magical world which will have your own little princess captivated.  The daughter of a wealthy British soldier Sara Crewe has to leave her home in India for a New York boarding school when her father leaves for World War I.  When he is presumed dead and Sara presumed poor, it is through her friendship with the house servant and her vivid imagination that she is able to keep her spirit and her sense of grace intact.
Why You'll Like It: Nominated for an Academy Award for best Art Direction, the film is visually stunning and has a unique aesthetic which you will not likely forget quickly.  Additionally, it carries the important message of persevering even when life becomes incredibly difficult, and, when put in a historical context, is racially radical in Sara's befriending of Becky.

12. The Little Rascals
Why Your Kids Will Like It: This film portrays children as functioning completely independently from adults, a notion which is always intriguing to children, but which is perhaps so successful in this film because of all that the little rascals accomplish.  Your children will go green with envy when they see the clubhouse and go kart that the He-Man Woman Haters Club has managed, all being under the age of eight, to build for themselves, and will laugh as they see Alfalfa bite into a sandwich spiked with kitty litter and get chased across the lawn by a Doberman in his underpants.
Why You'll Like It: It's charming and somehow evocative of an earlier time, perhaps due to the fact that it was inspired by Our Gang and even features some of the original cast members as the new kids' parents.  Daryl Hannah, Donald Trump, Mel Brooks, Whoopi Goldberg and Reba McEntire make cameos, and you will appreciate the lessons the film teaches your children about honesty, friendship, and even kindness across the genders.

13.  Matilda
Why Your Kids Will Like It: Matilda has magical powers, but unlike Harry Potter, she is stuck in a disenchanting and nonmagical world.  Consequently, her antics are able to shine in greater boldness than in they'd be able to in the films about her magical "brethren."  Your child will love watching Matilda make pancakes and make a deck of playing cards fly around her in the room as she dances.  Even young viewers will be impressed by the proclivity of Matilda, who is not only magical, but also highly intelligent and has a great thirst for knowledge, devouring books from the time she is old enough to sign for a library card and walk herself hime.
Why You'll Like It: Emerging from the same production studio as Garden State, Pulp Fiction, and Freedom Writers, Matilda is pure gold in the form of a children's film.  Aside from the film's high valuation of education, you will enjoy watching the on-screen chemistry created by Danny Devito and Rhea Perlman in this rare shared performance in which they play a sleazy used car salesman and a bleached blonde bingo maniac, respectively.  Paul Reubens (aka Peewee Herman) makes a cameo appearance as an FBI agent as well, the irony of which is lost on few adults.

14.  The Parent Trap (1961 version!)

******This movie will probably be better suited for watching with young girls.

Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's impossibly untrue, and it involves a secret scheme, something which inherently appeals to children.  Also coming into play is the wicked stepmother to be, Vicki, a character so vile, it is easy to take delight in the twins' tricking of her.  It's interesting to watch how each of the girls live in each other's lives, and your child will be curious to see how successful the twins are in passing.
Why You'll Like It: It's all in good fun, and it hails from an era when films were wholesome and family values were upheld.  Women will enjoy looking at the early 60's fashion.  Something about the good intentions of the days of yore will strike a nostalgic chord with you that Hannah Montana, in its ever-failing attempts at wit, does not.

15.  Pirates of the Caribbean (This film is rated PG-13)
Yes, this film deviates from the "unequivocally family friendly" range of G/PG ratings, but it is such a great family film that it deserves a mention.  Also, please keep in mind that even though it has a bit of a stricter rating than the other films on this list, it is made by Disney and according to imdb, it earned its rating for "action/adventure, violence."  Having viewed this film myself several times, I can relate to you, the discerning parent, the following regarding these elements:
1. The fight scenes are epic, and they do cause quite an adrenaline rush.
2. Any violence is highly stylized/made humorous.  There is no gore of any kind in the film.
3. The greatest cause for concern as a parent is that, under the light of the moon, there are a few scenes in which captain Barbossa and his crew turn into skeletons, to which some children have a sensitivity.  However, Disney takes great care to make the crew seem humorous and simple-minded, and consequently they are not very intimidating.
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It's an utterly thrilling escape into an exotic world of swashbucklers, sea monsters, maidens, and vigilante justice.  Your children will immediately feel affection for the oft-confused but always successful Jack Sparrow, and cheer him on in his quest against captain Barbossa.  Older children will even appreciate the romantic side plot that develops between Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley.
Why You'll Like It: This film has an incredible ability to transport audiences of all ages, and you will appreciate an all-star cast that includes Geoffrey Rush and Johnny Depp.  At the end of the day, the good guys win.  On the way, there is a bit of romance, a lot of humor, some adventure, and an abundance of breathtaking scenery to keep you thoroughly attached to the screen.  Parents of particularly picky boys might benefit from picking up one of the Pirates films on the next movie night, though it has something for everyone.

16.  The Santa Claus
Why Your Kids Will Like It: This movie is not just for Christmas time.  At the tender age of 6, I received a VHS copy of this, which my younger brother and I wore into a skipping jumble of ironically placed "festive" music.  Your kids will adore the North Pole in the movie, abundant with toys, elves, and holiday confections.  The modern twist on santa's magic, such as a CD cookie dispenser in the sleigh, makes the movie feel current and appeals to the sensibilities of the modern kid more so than the black and white santa stories you see on TCM every year.
Why You'll Like It: Tim Allen, though thought of as accessible to children, is an adult's comic, and his bitterness and disenchantment is not that of your typical cartoon Grinch.  Jabs at going to therapy and the woes of divorce and mid-life weight gain will have adults smirking, and all of the family bonding and crackling fires will leave you feeling warm and cozy.

17.  Toy Story:
Why Your Kids Will Like It: It entertains the idea that your toys come to life when you are out of the room and has the child-friendly aesthetic for which Pixar has become famous.
Why You'll Like It: It promotes teamwork and enforces that things change in life, but that with a positive outlook everything will be okay.  Having been released in 1995, Toy Story will impress you with its animation, from the smooth movement of the characters to the level of expression on their faces.  The story of the underdog, which is Woody's story, has something to offer for audiences of all ages.

18.  Up:
Why Your Kids Will Like It: What could possibly be more whimsical than the idea of tying balloons to your house and flying off into the sky?  Kids will laugh at the grumpiness of Carl and the silliness of Russell and Dug when they see that the sky really is the limit in this instant classic.
Why You'll Like It: Much of the nuance in this film will go over your child's head, as it was not intended to be solely for children.  You will sympathize along with Carl as he loses his wife, and be glad for him as the sense of joy in his life is renewed.

-posted by Anna

Stumped on what to get for your Foreign Friday Freebie? Check out these movies from the British section!

Angela's Ashes (R): Adapted from one of the most beloved memoirs of all time, Angela's Ashes is a gripping story of Frank McCourt's coming of age in impoverished Ireland.  Following McCourt through the trials and tribulations of death, religious clashes, and finding himself through his childhood and adulthood, the film manages to retain a sense of distance, humor and grace even when dealing with dark subject matter.

Atonement (R):  Keira Knightley and James McAvoy are spellbinding in this portrayal of love and the challenges of classism at the onset of World War II.  The plot functions on the notion of how a single event shapes the course of people's lives, the future of all involved, in this case, being in the hands of a school-aged girl.  A mesmerizing story about perseverance in the face of adversity, personal growth, and the power of love.  Truly a must-see.

Billy Elliot (R):  Set in the early 1980's, Billy Elliot follows a young boy in the aftermath of his mother's death and the desires of his father and older brother for him to engage in traditionally "masculine" pursuits (mining and boxing).  In the slums of Newcastle, Billy's life has been predetermined to mimic the course of his dysfunctional family's, but Billy has little interest in going into the mines.  After boxing lessons one day, Billy walks into a ballet lesson, and feels a new source of joy in his life.  The story is both touching and frustrating as Billy goes on to pursue his love in the face of his family's disapproval, and reconcile the guilt he feels over the miner's strike and the increasing financial burdens placed on his family.  A film that all at once motivates its audience to laugh at Billy and with him, but ends on a positive note.

Elizabeth (R): Cate Blanchett's portrayal of the monarch is striking, following her personal evolution from a naive adolescent, to a young adult in love, to the hardened queen that went on to foster one of the most prosperous times in England's history.  Religious themes are present in this film, though they are not obtrusive, and Geoffrey Rush and Joseph Fiennes round out an all-star cast makes even discussions of political tactics and war enjoyable.

Hilary & Jackie (R): A portrayal of the lives of real life sisters Hilary and Jacqueline du Pre, the latter receiving great renown for her mastery of the cello.  The film depicts their growing up, particularly focusing on the air of competition that is ever-present in the lives of the sisters until Jacqueline's premature death at age 42.

Muriel's Wedding (R): One of Toni Colette's lesser known films, Muriel's Wedding is, on the whole, hilarious.  Muriel is an overly enthusiastic old maid who dreams of getting married and brims with hope for her own romance every time she witnesses the nuptials of those around her.  She is a scapegoat to everyone she knows--comically so, whether it be her immediate (dysfunctional) family or her "friends."  Suddenly, Muriel finds herself in an arranged marriage to an Olympic athlete (portrayed by Jonathan Rhys Meyers) and is ecstatic that finally, her own special day has come.  Little does she know that an unexpected event will soon change everything she wanted out of life, including her desire for marriage.  The film's soundtrack consists overwhelmingly of ABBA songs, and contains such comic gems as Muriel telling the staff in a bridal shop that her mother is a bed-ridden cancer patient so that they will take pictures of her in gowns to "show her," when really Muriel just brings them home to put them in a photo album.  Quirky and sweet.

Pride & Prejudice (PG): Keira Knightley in a Jane Austen adaptation.  Not much further explanation required.

The Queen (PG-13): Helen Mirren gives an apt performance of the queen in the immediate aftermath of the death of Diana, a time period during which the Windsors came under great public scrutiny for an excess of the stereotypical "British reserve."  While the queen does not undergo some great emotional transformation by the film's conclusion, Mirren portrays the subtlety of the stiff-upper-lipped public figure, mastering such small gestures as clutching her purse so that, upon watching, you find yourself saying, "Wow, the queen does do that."

Sense & Sensibility (PG): Kate Winslet, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, and Alan Rickman round out a whimsical cast in this adaptation of the Jane Austen classic.

Shakespeare in Love (PG-13): Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes star in this romanticized account of the early life of William Shakespeare.  A dreamy story of forbidden love across the social classes and early efforts of women in the arts.

For the Kids:
Mr. Bean
Monty Python

For Teens:
Shaun of the Dead (R): An average Joe with repeated shortcomings in life decides to prove to everyone how important he is by saving select loved ones from the conveniently-ongoing zombie apocalypse.

TV:
The Tudors

-Posted by Anna

Trilogies!

Today's post will be an homage to trilogies. Now, I will be the first to admit that sequels are often a bad idea. (Can anyone say "Grease 2"?) Remakes are often even worse. (The recent Clash of the Titans debacle comes to mind.) However, trilogies are a separate entity that have shaped some of the greatest movie franchises in history. Below is my list of the top 5 all-time greatest trilogies, all available today at our MacArthur store!

1) Back to the Future - How could this one not be first? For those of you who have been living in a under a rock quarry or at the bottom of a garden pond for the past 25 years, this film is about charming high school slacker Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) and his quirky awkwardly-too-old-to-be-his-friend pal, inventor Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd). Doc invents a time machine (out of a DeLorean) and takes Marty with him into the 1950's, where he befriends his high-school parents; into the year 2015 where he sees himself as a middle-aged man, and into the Old West, where he finds that the cowboy costumes sold in your local Halloween shop aren't exactly stylish. A wild ride from start to finish, this trilogy is fun for the whole family!

2) Star Wars - I suppose now this franchise counts as 2 trilogies (or possibly a set-of-six-ogy, but I don't know the actual word for that). Regardless, the Star Wars movies have managed to transcend generations, making geeks out of baby-boomers and ten-year-olds alike. With Hans Solo for the girls and Princess Leia for the guys, these movies are great entertainment for both Grandpa and little Suzie.

3) The Mummy - Now, I know that earlier I said that remakes can sometimes be a mistake. But these movies are so darn entertaining that I just couldn't leave them off the list. Brendan Fraser stars as Rick O'Connell, a swashbuckling adventurer in the deserts of Egypt who gets saddled with uptight librarian Yvie (Rachel Weisz). They accidentally unleash an evil mummy on the world, and fall in love in the process. Witty wordplay and great chemistry make this trilogy one you won't want to miss! (Although if you're going to miss any of it, skip out on part 3: Tomb of the Dragon Emporer. The franchise just isn't the same without Rachel Weisz as Yvie.)

4) Indiana Jones - For those of you who still want to see Harrison Ford shoot people but aren't so into the Star Wars thing, this is a perfect choice. We get to ride along as Indie negotiates ancient booby traps, gets in bar fights in Marakesh, and reunites with his father (the unforgettable Shawn Connery). But let it be known that this review refers to the original trilogy-the recent Kingdom of the Crystal Skull should probably be left on the shelf.

5) Toy Story - I'm the first to admit I may be a bit biased on this one. I loved Toy Story 3 so much that I saw it 3 times in the theater. What can I say, I just can't get enough of Ken and Barbie in their dreamhouse. Biased or not, this trilogy is funny, sweet, sad, heart-wrenching, and just all-around fun. Grown-ups will love seeing some of their favorite childhood toys come to life (Barrell of Monkeys, anyone?) and kids will love the goofy characters, bright colors, and adventure as the toys get replaced, broken, and ::gasp:: donated! Toy Story 3 is not yet available on DVD, but now is a perfect time to catch up on the first two, currently re-released and on our New Kids wall!

-Posted by Colleen

Chick Flicks That Deserve Recognition

As I've stated in previous posts, I'm normally not a huge "chick flick" person. I'd much rather watch zombies eat people's brains or Samuel L. Jackson shoot people than I would watch two people who hate each other slowly fall in love and live happily ever after (or at least happily-through-the-ending-credits, anyway). But despite my anti-girly-movie status, the other day I found myself watching not one, but TWO romantic comedies in one day. Highly unusual for me. Then I realized something-maybe I've been so busy lumping rom-coms together in one lousy heap that I've forgotten to acknowledge the true genius behind some of these films. Thus, my post today is in honor of rom-com goddess Nancy Meyers.

Nancy Meyers, the writer/director/producer of many a romantic comedy, is right up there with Nora Ephron as one of the queens of romance movies. Before writing, producing, and directing It's Complicated, the latest addition to the Meryl Streep canon, she was the brain behind a host of other witty classics, such as The Holiday, Something's Gotta Give (one of my personal favorites), What Women Want, and the movie my 7-year-old self based all of my childhood wedding fantasies on, the hit remake of Father of the Bride. Not only will these films melt your heart, but Meyers has a history of using strong, intoxicating female leads (Diane Keaton and Helen Hunt spring to mind...) and smart, often swoon-worthy male love interests. Her dialogue is fast-paced and funny, and her movies are not only intellectually smart, but have that rare touch of emotional intelligence to them that is so hard to find in lighter movies. Even I, with my prejudice against sappy movies, can't help watching almost all of her movies over and over and over again. (I've even worn out my copy of Something's Gotta Give, if you can believe that!)

So, the moral of the story-check out Nancy Meyers. You may find some new favorites (and men, there might even be a movie or two in there that you'll enjoy)!

-Posted by Colleen

Don't Call Me Shirley

I was flipping through the channels yesterday, and as I flipped, heard those immortal words..."Don't call me Shirley". Gasp! Could it be? Could Airplane! really be on TV? It seemed too good to be true! Yet true it was. Replete with commercial breaks and TV-appropriate edits, but there nonetheless. I yelled at the TV, telling Leslie Nielson I love him, but I don't think he heard me.

This experience, of course, inspired a post. I realized recently I've been so caught up in the Will Ferrel/Steve Carell canon that I've been completely neglecting the Old Reliables-80's spoof flicks. As a gesture of good will towards my nearly-forgotten comedy classics, here's a list of 10 of my favorite remakes, spoofs, and silly 80's comedies, all available at our MacArthur store.

1) Airplane! Obviously, this one has to come first. Complete with an inflatable automatic pilot, John Travolta-inspired dance sequences, and warring airport PA announcers, how could you not love this disaster-movie spoof? (Incidentally, we also carry Airplane II, though I'm not as enthusiastic about that one.)

2) Roxanne. What do you get when you put a 6-inch nose on Steve Martin? Really funny nose jokes, that's what! (I won't spoil all of them for you, but my personal favorite deserves a mention: "Whew! I'd hate to see the grindstone!") Steve Martin and Daryl Hannah light up the screen in this modern-day Cyrano de Bergerac tale. A must-see!

3) Tootsie. Dustin Hoffman masquerading as an old lady. What more needs to be said?

4) Robin Hood: Men in Tights. I realize that this film is A) from the 90's and B) elicits mixed reviews, but I love this one. (I'll take Cary Elwes in tights any day.) I just can't get enough of the Sheriff of Rottingham words up all mixing his (brownie points if you got that), Will Scarlett O'Hara, and the gigantic Little John. Good fun for the whole family! (Especially if you're not so psyched about the whole Russell-Crowe-as-Robin-Hood thing....)

5) History of the World: Part 1. Though I'm still waiting in angst for History of the World Part 2: Jews in Space, this film never fails to entertain me. It's world history told through the eyes of Mel Brooks, so really, what more do you need?

6) Clue. I love, I repeat, LOVE this movie. I will come clean and say that this is one of those movies I watch when I'm sick, cleaning the house, need background noise, or am feeling some plain old Tim Curry withdrawal. Based on the board game, it's got a cast that can't be beaten. (Tim Curry as the butler, Christopher Lloyd as Professor Plum, and Madeleine Kahn as Mrs. White-can't get much better than that.)

7) Hook. Made in 1991, it's a little past the 80's mark, but it deserves inclusion anyway. An old family favorite, this film shows what happens after Peter Pan (Robin Williams) leaves Neverland and grows up. Julia Roberts as Tinkerbell and Dustin Hoffman as Captain Hook, with a cameo from Maggie Smith as Wendy, round out this all-star cast in a film that's great for the kids and just as much fun for the grown-ups. And how often does that happen?

8) The Princess Bride. What list of 80's classics would be complete without mention of Robin Wright's big-screen debut? This film combines swashbuckling swordplay, kidnapping plots, giants, pirates, princesses, and witty one-liners into a film that is truly one of the great American classics. There is no one too old or too young to enjoy this movie. (And a plus, the book it's based on is a fantastic family read as well!)

9) Stripes. This early 80's classic puts Bill Murray, John Candy, and a host of other comedians in the last place they want to be-the Army! And the audience gets to watch as they bumble, fumble, and generally muck things up. Great comedy for a Saturday night, though you may want to watch it after the kids are in bed, as there is some language and sexual content.

10) Weird Science. No 80's list is worth its weight in salt without a John Hughes movie included. This comedy about 2 teenagers who use their computer to build a woman (played by Kelly LeBrock) will have you rolling on the floor.

-Posted by Colleen

Date Night

Ah, date night. A time to relax, spend some time with your loved one, and get caught up in life-threatening blackmail drama. Such is the night for the Foster's, wittingly portrayed by Steve Carell and Tina Fey. This movie takes an ordinary, boring couple from New Jersey and takes them around New York, fighting criminals, District Attornies, and other various bad guys, all by accident. With a strong supporting cast (who doesn't want Marky Mark on their side in a battle against New York City crime?), Date Night manages to take a rather stock plot and make it hysterically funny. The visual comedy, witty one-liners, and obvious chemistry between Fey and Carell are what make this film work. I will say this-there is almost nothing in this film that you haven't seen before. But Fey and Carell manage to pull off a seen-it-before plot in a way that is fresh, witty, and new. As far as the story goes, it is thoroughly pedestrian. But be careful with beverages during this film, because your milk might very well end up coming out your nose. Great film to bring home and veg to after a stressful work day!

-Posted by Colleen

Survival of the Dead

Another entry in George A. Romero's zombie oeuvre.  After the zombie outbreak, a group of mercenaries encounter a small island where two warring patriarchs have very different solutions to the undead problem.  In Survival of the Dead a zombie shot with a flare gun internally combusts, and another has an eye-popping moment (literally) eating the business end of a fire extinguisher.  Yet on the island a spectral undead beauty on horseback rides eternally through the fall leaves.  And this is the ultimate problem with the film.  Survival doesn't know if it's a jokey, shoot-em-up zombie movie, or an introspective, thought-provoking zombie movie, and in the end it's neither.  We have the requisite Romero disembowelment scene, and some entertaining zombie deaths.  The beautiful scenery of the island, which was filmed in Ontario, is a refreshing change from the cityscapes and empty shopping malls we've come to expect. But the plot is confused, the dialogue is utilitarian at best, and even gore-lovers will be disappointed by the lack of real action.  Few if any of the characters are sympathetic, and I was decidedly unmoved by their various deaths.  The lush scenery is barely able to make up for the film's overall blandness.  In short, if you want to watch a zombie gore-fest, watch Dead Alive.  If you want a contemplative movie with zombies, watch 28 Days Later.  But leave Survival on the shelf.

-Posted by Liz

New Releases You Probably Haven't Noticed

We've all done it-walked along the New Release wall, scanning for the latest Leo or Angelina flick, letting our eyes skim over everything else in between the blockbuster movies. But sometimes that can be a mistake. To help rectify this, here's a list of movies currently on the New Release wall that you've probably walked by a dozen times and never looked twice at-but definitely should!

Dead Snow
I will never stop recommending this movie. I think it actually took the place of Dawn of the Dead as my favorite zombie movie of all time. Three words for you: Norwegian Nazi zombies. Yes, you read that right. And it's exactly as awesome as it sounds. Perfect blend of horror and comedy-for those of you who aren't so into the scary-movie thing, there's plenty of laughs to go around. And for you film connoisseurs, let it be known that not only is this film fun, but comes complete with spectacular make-up and gore effects. The film is Norwegian, but has the option to watch it dubbed if your massive 12-inch-screen doesn't cut it for watching subtitles. Word to the wise-it's not for the squemish. But SO worth the spattering intestinal gore.

Hitler Meets Christ
For some reason, this movie keeps getting passed over. Maybe it's the obviously sacrilegious title? Whatever your reason for not picking it up before, don't let first impressions fool you. This film about two homeless crazy men (one thinks he's Hitler, one thinks he's Jesus) will make you see sacralige in a whole new way.

Timer
I'm personally not the biggest fan of romantic comedies (in case you couldn't tell by my rave review of a Nazi zombie movie), but this one is a fun rom-com with a twist. In this movie's world, everyone wears a timer telling them when they'll meet their soul mate...but what happens when you fall in love with someone and then your timer doesn't beep? (Besides, who doesn't love to see Emma Caulfield fall in love? It's been far too long since we've gotten to fawn over Anya in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.)

VeggieTales: Pistachio, The Boy That Woodn't
Here's one from the kids' wall for you. Who doesn't love the slighty-preachy-yet-annoyingly-cute talking vegetables that quote Bible verses more fluently than I can quote South Park? Pretty colors, witty banter, and funny songs make the VeggieTales movies good fun for the kids (and actually tolerable for the parents-what a relief!).

FYI, we're now selling our surplus copies of Avatar for $4.95. We know, we shouldn't have, we're too good to be true, yada yada. Just stop by and pick up a copy before they're gone!

-Posted by Colleen

Summer Discounts

For those of you who haven't heard or simply haven't been paying attention, the Potomac Video store on MacArthur Blvd is now offering daily discounts. (Yay!) Here's a rundown of our daily deals; know them, use them, love them.

Note: Full-price films include any rental in the store (including New Releases) with the exception of titles from the Family section. Free rentals may not be applied to New Releases. Offer does not apply to adult films.

Memory-Lane Mondays
Rent any 2 full-price films and get one rental from the Musical or Classics section free!

TV Tuesdays
Rent any 2 full-price films and get one rental from the TV or Documentary section free!

Wacky Wednesdays
Rent any 2 full-price films and get one rental from the Comedy section free!

Thriller Thursdays
Rent any 2 full-price films and get one rental from the Action or Mystery section free!

Foreign Fridays
Rent any 2 full-price films and get one rental from the Foreign or British section free!

Sappy Saturdays
Rent any 2 full-price films and get one rental from the Drama section free!

Sci-Fi Sundays
Rent any 2 full-price films and get one rental from the Horror or Sci-Fi section free!

-Posted by Colleen

August Movies to Keep You Cool!

We all know how the summer in DC feels-hot, hot and more hot! To help you cool off, here's a list of wintery films, all available at our MacArthur store to help chill you out this August!

31 "chilly" films, one for every day in August!

1) Fargo - Mystery, R
2) The Thing - Sci-Fi, R
3) Ice Age - Family, PG
4) Grumpy Old Men - Comedy, PG-13
5) The Mummy III: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor - Action, PG-13
6) The Fast Runner - Foreign, Misc. (Inuit), R
7) Alaska - Family, PG
8) Noi - Iceland, NR
9) The Day After Tomorrow - Action, PG-13
10) Quintet - Drama, R
11) Whiteout - Mystery, R
12) The Shining - Horror, R
13) The Ice Storm - Drama, R
14) The Mighty Ducks - Family, PG
15) Miracle - Drama, PG
16) The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe - Family, PG
17) Slap Shot - Comedy, R
18) Blades of Glory - Comedy, PG-13
19) Cool Runnings - Family, G
20) Mystery, Alaska - Comedy, R
21) Aurora Borealis - Comedy, R
22) Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back - Sci-Fi, PG
23) Murder on the Orient Express - British, Mystery, PG
24) Cold Souls - Comedy, PG-13
25) Encounters at the End of the World - Documentary, G
26) The Antarctica Challenge - New Release Documentary, NR
27) Dead Snow - New Release Horror/Foreign, R
28) Vertical Limit - Action, R
29) Cold Mountain - Drama, R
30) Ice Station Zebra - Classics, G
31) Frozen River - Drama, R

-Posted by Colleen

Welcome!!

Welcome fellow Vidiots to the official blog of Potomac Video! Here you will find recommendations, movie reviews from our fabulous staff, and general film-type musings. (Also keep in mind that loyal Vidiots will find discounts, coupons, and more hidden in the vast depths of our online labyrinth of movie goodness!)  In fact, as a reward for all of you who are following us from the start, you can print this post out and bring it in for a dollar off a full-price rental of your choice (excluding new releases) any time on or before Friday, August 13! Look at that, you've won already!


Feel free to post your comments on our blog posts, and keep checking back for more recommendations, discounts, and more!

-Posted by Colleen