Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World

Fast paced, electric, and witty Edgar Wright's "Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World" busts onto the silver screen with Michael Cera as the sweet (if not a bit naive and awkward) title character. Cera must defeat the seven evil exes of Ramona Flowers to win her hear, all while his band is attempts to get a record contract by wining the battle of the bands. Keiran Culkin shines as Scott's witty gay roommate. The first half progresses at such a pace that it could satisfy even the most ADD of viewers. The movie is different in many respects including its art direction. Audio cues, gaphics, and effects serve as a love letter to old-school video games. While I wished the final battles would have reached a more explosive climax I did not leave the theater disappointed or bored.

Grade: B+

Charlie St. Cloud

"Charlie St. Cloud" is more or less the story of an All American teenage boy (Effron) who looses his brother and his all-star mojo when his brother is killed in a car accident. Following the crash Charlie is reduced to a dazed hermit who spends his spare time designing sailing equipment (his lost passion) and playing catch with the ghost of his late brother. Charlie's self imposed exhile from all things typically youthful when a hot young sailor (wait...I'll rephrase that) beautiful young girl who sails around the world. (whew, that almost turned into another movie entirely) Eyes are opened, lessons are learned, Charlie's libido is re-kickstarted (as well of those of the man-loving audience members). The movie 0pperates as a vehicle for showcasing Effron's rock hard abs, classic good looks, and ocean blue eyes than his acting abilities. Effron's face of despair occasionally reads more like the face who is stoned. The plot delivers no real surprises and the problems are a little too easily dissolved. While the film can deliver the warm fuzzies for the sentimental crowd, there the plot and acting fails to be substantial enough to keep this boat afloat.

Grade: C-