Matthew R. Reis: Film and TV Critic

Inspired by the "Blue Man Group" (Now on DVD) 4 Stars As featured in: The Ithacan A film taking place several million light-years away has never felt more realistic. With its revolutionary use of computer animation, “Avatar” is the future of filmmaking. “Avatar” transcends ordinary popcorn flicks and deserves multifaceted acclaim for its engrossing visual and sound effects, strong supporting cast and epic moments only director James Cameron is capable of delivering. The on-screen chemistry between Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) sparks with burgeoning passion. Messages about environmental and feminist issues are present throughout the film. Some of them are obvious, while others are discretely hidden. “Avatar” serves as a grim reminder of what could happen in the future if people continue to abuse the planet’s resources. At nearly three hours long, the run time may turn away some viewers, but those who are patient are in for a special treat. ...

U.S. Bank (Robbers) 3 Stars As featured in: The Ithacan Loss, disappointment and dissatisfaction hang heavy over Ben Affleck’s second film “The Town,” an action-drama set in the bank robbery capital of America. A cast featuring Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper and Jeremy Renner fill this film with solid performances. While heist movies like Stephen Soderberg’s “Ocean’s Eleven” feature no realistic consequences for the characters in those film, life changing situations await Ben Affleck and Co. in this emotionally charged picture. Heist movies seem to center around a criminal committing to one last job before retiring and living a fairy tale life. “The Town” takes this tired premise and tweaks it just a bit, injecting equal parts heart-wrenching drama and high-octane action. Ben Affleck stars as Doug MacRay, a leader of a tight crew that is among the best bank robbers in Boston. In the opening scene MacRay and his partner Jem Coughlin (Jeremy Renner) snatch a pretty bank manager for rans...