Spielberg's on a horse

We're not much for sentimentality here in The Basement, but there's moments in this trailer for Steven Spielberg's War Horse that give me chills. It might be John Williams's score or the beautiful images, but that old Spielberg magic is in every frame.

This is a boy-and-his-horse story set against the backdrop of the First World War. And although it's not the kind of thing we'd ever review on our show, the beauty of this trailer deserves to be shared. That and I have a feeling the wife and I will be seeing this one, as she loves horses and all.

War Horse is due out this Christmas.

Micro Review: The Fighter

Another movie checked off my catch-up list, and well worth the wait. This is as much about drug addiction as it is about boxing, and both stories pay off perfectly. Much like its main character, The Fighter is slow to warm up but grows on you. By the end of the movie I was completely engrossed. Mark Wahlberg has never been better and Christian Bale is hands down one of the best actors working today. Be patient with this movie and you won't be disappointed. A Good for sure, and worthy of its praise.

Micro Review: The Social Network

A long overdue view here in The Basement, and worth the wait . . . for the most part. There's nothing technically wrong with David Fincher's Facebook tale, but the film is also proof positive that sharp direction, great writing (by screenwriter Aaron Sorkin) and solid performances do not a great movie make. The film is a decent ride, but only holds the viewer's interest enough to make it worth taking once. I enjoyed my experience with The Social Network, but won't be back for more. And that, sadly, earns it a Bad from this Basement Dweller. As someone who is a die hard Fincher fan, that's a tough statement to swallow.

Micro Review: The King's Speech

The King's Speech more than lives up to its praise and deserves the awards its won. While it's not my favourite film from 2010, it's pretty damn close. The performances are spot on across the board, especially Colin Firth as King Gearge VI and Geoffrey Rush as his speech therapist Lionel. But what else would one expect from two world-class actors? It's a great story that's moving and funny, with not a note or scene out of place. In fact, it's as close to flawless as a movie can get. Easily one of the better dramas to come along in years, and rates a Good because of it.