Reviews

I rented this movie not knowing exactly what to expect. What I got was an absolutely electric performance from Oscar winner Angelina Jolie. I am not just some guy who thinks she's hot or anything, but I am your average 15 year-old girl, and I could identify with Winona Ryder's character. But Angelina Jolie in this film reminded me of a few friends of my own, and every time I watch this movie I am mesmerized by her acting. She's tough, but at the same time vulnerable, and despite all of her attitude, she tries to make people happy in the way she knows how. I would watch this movie a thousand times just to see her acting it it. I give her performance a 10 out of 10, and I know this performance is not just a fluke... for her short screen time in "Gone In Sixty Seconds" she sure can keep a movie moving.

Plain and simple, I love this movie. It allows you to be drawn into the lives of four girls, at least one of which you can identify with. Gaby Hoffman as Samantha is my personal favorite - she has her feet on the ground, but remains a dreamer at heart. And another fine acting job comes from Christina Ricci, as Roberta the tomboy who reminds me quite a lot of myself. This movie is NOT a cheap 'rip-off of "Stand By Me"' It is an intelligently thought out plot mixed with great acting by four teenage girls, and a lot of true life experiences no matter what time period you grew up.

Yes, I know "My Girl 2" was a sequel. Yes, I know it is hard to follow the first movie. But the reason why I love this movie is because of the way we see Vada Sultenfuss has changed over the course of a few years. I loved seeing the sweet, innocent Vada become more of an adult & still remain likeable as a character. I also love Austin O'Brien in this movie; to date, he has not been in anything memorable, but I think the role of Nick was suited for him. I do find the relationship they have somewhat disenchanting, but it was what I was waiting for the whole movie. I think the plot was an interesting one, and Maggie Muldovan made this movie. It is, as another reviewer remarked, worth it to watch the movie countless times just to hear her sing "Smile." I love all of this movie, though, so I would advise seeing it.

"A League Of Their Own" has to be one of my favorite movies. I mean I usually enjoy films with flashbacks, (i.e. "Now & Then" and "Stand By Me"), but this film delivers so much of an emotional punch it is an incredibly wonderful experience just rewatching it. There is the lingering doubt at the end of the movie...was that drop purposeful?...but that is the only loose end in the whole flick. Geena Davis and Tom Hanks are the two outstanding players in this mixture of comedy, tragedy, and history; but Rosie & Madonna are also well worth the price of a rental from your local movie store. Jon Lovitz is delightfully dry and quite comedic in his short, but sweet role. Madonna very convincingly pulls off the attitude that makes her part. Overall, Tom Hanks is a great actor and I hold this film up there with "Saving Private Ryan" and "Apollo 13" on his best work list. This is an enjoyable and at the same time heartwrenching movie that should be viewed more than once.