Movies I've Watched Recently

In addition to reading, I have another love: movies! Since this is a book review blog, I usually don't get the chance to talk about films, so I figured I would do a spotlight post discussing some I have watched recently! Let me know in the comments what you've been watching lately! I'm thinking about making this a monthly feature, but we'll see. For now, here are some of the movies I've seen lately, whether in theaters or at home:

1. Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol  
Release date: December 21, 2011

Starring: Tom Cruise 

Where?: In Theaters 

Series: #4, can be seen out of order though

Rating: PG-13

I was a big fan of the first and second MI movies, but the third fell a little flat. I wasn't sure what to expect regarding Ghost Protocol, but I ended up loving it! We went as a family to see this one, and I know both my mom and dad enjoyed it as well. The plot was unique and addicting and the action was endless. I was on the edge of my seat quite a few times and all of the actors were fantastic. Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, and Paula Patton all did a wonderful job and I can only hope to see all of them back for a fifth adventure!

2. Monte Carlo 

Release date: July 1, 2011

Starring: Selena Gomez, Leighton Meester, Katie Cassidy

Where?: Personal DVD

Series: No

Rating: PG

I remember wanting to see this when it was in theaters, but I never had the chance because of other conflicts over the summer. Now that our Blockbuster is going out of business I have been loading up on DVDs and this was one of them! This was just what I was expecting: a cute, frothy love story. I've always liked Selena Gomez's music, but I never connected with her on Wizards of Waverly Place. Luckily, I felt she did a great job in Monte Carlo. The scenery was beautiful and while the plot did seem a tad unrealistic at times (or completely unrealistic), I did enjoy this. If you're looking for a fun and entertaining movie to watch on a rainy day, I definitely recommend this!

3. Thor

Release date: May 6, 2011

Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman 

Where?: Rented 

Series: Yes, #1 

Rating: PG-13

When my mom rented this I had no idea what to expect. I'd seen the trailer a few times and it definitely appealed to me, but I didn't know much more about it. I do love Natalie Portman, though, and was eager to see what her role would be. My family and I definitely enjoyed this one! Chris Hemsworth was a terrific Thor and this was a unique action movie that was different from the other Marvel super-hero films. The plot was action-packed, but also entertaining and romantic. Kat Dennings added a lot of the humor and I loved her character. Natalie Portman also did a nice job! Thor 2 doesn't seem to be on the horizon for quite awhile with all the director drama, but at least we'll see Thor in The Avengers and Chris Hemsworth in Snow White and the Huntsman! 

4. Easy A 

Release date: September 17, 2010

Starring: Emma Stone

Where?: Personal DVD

Series: No

Rating: PG-13

I LOVE THIS MOVIE! This is third time I have seen Easy A and I loved it just as much. It is a fantastic "teen movie" that is perfect to watch with friends. Emma Stone is one of my all-time favorite actresses and she did a fantastic job in Easy A. I can't tell you how much I adore this movie- just go watch it for yourself! 

5. The Princess Bride

Release date: September 25, 1987

Starring: Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin

Where?: Personal DVD

Series: No

Rating: PG

Another personal favorite! My family and I watched this on Christmas Eve, I just love reliving the magic of this movie over and over again. This is another one of those movies that if you haven't seen already, go see it right now! The action, the mystery, the romance, the adventure, everything is fun and exciting. As a book lover I still can't believe I haven't gotten my hands on a copy of the novel, though!