For Your Viewing Pleasure

Spent some time over Christmas and New Year catching up on some movies.
In case you're looking for something to rent, here, in order of enjoyment, are my suggestions:

"Collateral"
With Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx. Directed by Michael Mann (of "Miami Vice" fame).
Do not miss this movie. One of those, "so you think you're having a bad day?" stories combines with Michael Mann's direction technique and attention to detail make this the top of the list.

"Second Hand Lions"
With Michael Caine and Robert Duval.
Definately a feel good movie. An engaging story, but a little obvious at times. Sort of like "Raiders of the Lost Ark" meets "Grumpy Old Men" Also well worth your time. I will probably add this to my small personal collection.

"Terminal"
With Tom Hanks. I've enjoyed Tom Hanks since he turned up on TV in the 80's in "Bosom Buddies". This is the enjoyable story of a European traveler at JFK Airport, caught up in government red tape. A story of determination.
One question: what is up with the psycho-chick played by Catherine Zeta Jones? What a whacked character!
Very good, but not great.

"Lady Killers"
Also with Tom Hanks. Entertaining movie about some robbers looking for the big score.
Well worth your time, if you can tolerate a constant barrage of vulgarity from the Wayans character. Hanks' "Southern Gentleman" character is a hoot!

"Manchurian Candidate"
With Denzel Washington. Intriguing story, but for me the movie did not work. Main character just seemed unbelievable. For example, we have a career Army man (I think he was a Major), living in what appeared to be a slum apartment.
Would not recommend.
Planning on checking out the original from a number of years back.

"Ocean's Eleven"
George Clooney, Brad Pitt and others.
Leave it on the shelf. Tedious and slow moving.
I've heard "Ocean's Twelve" is even worse.