Matthew R. Reis: Film and TV Critic

Break a leg. 4 Stars Blog Exclusive! I'm in between classes and my work is done so I thought I'd talk about "Breaking Bad." In my opinion I feel that "Breaking Bad" is one of those rare shows that makes viewers disregard clichés, and embrace uncertainty. Each episode I've watched so far (mind you I only have completed the first 2 seasons) contributes something to the viewer(s). The creative team behind "Bad" force the viewers to think, react and interact with the show in a very cerebral way. That being said, for the first time in a long time I don't feel like I've lost any brain cells watching this series. Rather at least for me, I gain a lot of knowledge about filmmaking, and the harsh realities of the drug trade. The show also delves a lot into human psychology and makes each character's problems seem plausible. I feel that the show accurately talks about tough, real life issues. Changing pace... another thing that comes ...

In the criminal justice system... 3 stars Blog exclusive! New episodes of Law & Order: SVU premiere every Wednesday at 9pm on NBC I can't hold in my abnormal for SVU any longer. The series has survived the consistent departure of regular cast members and seems to always feature memorable guest appearances. I think the best new thing about Season 13 of the hit drama is actress Kelli Giddish's portrayal of transplanted Texas Detective Amanda Rollins. She has her fair share of problems (i.e. a dangerous gambling conviction) and has a lot of heart. What's missing from this season is the edge Christopher Meloni brought to the screen as Detective Stabler. The show needs more muscle, more fire and less glitz. Of second-most importance in terms of good new things to hit SVU is the hot, hot, hot romance budding between Detective Benson (Mariska Hartigay) and ADA Haden (Harry Connick Jr.). Connick is new to the show, but is a force of nature. However will the pressur...

Blog Exclusive! One Sentence Synopsis and Review "Hanna" 2011 4 Stars Synopsis: Hanna (Ronan) is barely an adult, but her dashing father Erik (played by a looking better than ever Eric Bana) has taught her to be the ultimate killing machine in an undisclosed location in order to one day avenge the death of her mother. Review: With beautiful visuals drummed up by director of photography Alwin Kuchler and an in grossing, bite-your-nails till they bleed pacing everything comes together for "Hanna", the most refreshing action film since "The Bourne Ultimatum" and perhaps my favorite overall since Luc Besson's "The Professional," my favorite film of all time. Saoirse Ronan, Cate Blanchett and Eric Bana star. One Sentence Synopsis and Review "Paul" 2011 3 Stars Synopsis: Two English chaps Graeme (Pegg) and Clive (Frost) decide to head to America and tour all the rumored UFO encounter locations in America; along the way t...