Based on Michael Crichton's retelling of the Beowulf story, The 13th Warrior is a fun film, but don't think it presents an accurate portrayal of tenth century Europe.

Juno (2007) is entertaining, but, like Pretty Woman (1990), it trivializes a grave woman's issue.

The last feature made about Joan of Arc in the 20th century is typical of the time. Cynical and based on pop psychology, The Messenger (1999) does a disservice to France's national heroine.

Billy Bob Thornton of Hot Springs, Arkansas created an original with Sling Blade (1996). Twelve years after its release, this film remains a tour de force of acting, writing, and directing.

Most reviews of The Departed describe it as "entertaining." It all depends upon whether one finds entertainment in sadistic behavior that goes unpunished..

Some fans of the TV series have panned the new X-Files film, but it deserves a fair viewing. The Scully/Mulder magic is still there.