Mini-Review: One of Clint Eastwood's most shining moments as a director. Powerfully acted, beautifully written and shot, this film about three old buddies and the tragic trajectory of their lives hits home on several levels. Wait for the end of the film. This one will haunt even after the theatre curtains have fallen.

Mini-Review: M. Night Shyamylan said in an interview that the inclusion of the love story in "The Village" was an afterthought. Well, it was an insightful afterthought. Placing Phoenix alongside newcomer Brice Dallas Howard gives this flick its heart. Without the love story, the film is merely atmosphere with thinly developed characters.

Mini-Review: It doesn't get worse than 3 pretty girls with questionable acting skills placed in a film whose only requirement of them is to look good in a bathing-suit. The film just never could put its pieces together in regards to plot and where to put its pretty centerpieces. Worst of all, the jokes fall flatter than Lucy Liu's character's muffins.

Mini-Review: Just a wonderful, touching movie all around. Although the storyline at times is rather implausible, the acting is first rate and keeps the movie soaring throughout. Certainly one of the best films ever made.

Mini-Review: Based on a true story, this film tells the tale of soldiers fighting to stay alive after a plan gone terribly wrong. The only character truly "visible" in this film belongs to Josh Hartnett who gives perspective in the heat of battle. It's a tear jerker, emotionally draining, and moves at such a pace that it brings the audience to the battle. But what it does most of all is tell a story that needs to be told, about how the worst in mankind can sometimes bring out the best in men.