Open Water

Surprising. Especially the end. Based on the events documented here. I hadn't read much about this movie before seeing it, had only seen a preview in a movie theater and really expected a typical Hollywood ending. Nope. Surprise. Some scary moments and a few hopeful ones. Definitely changes my perception of such things (like scuba diving, being on a boat full of strangers in a vacation setting).

Independence Day

I really like this movie. I've watched it many times and enjoy it every time. I know there are plenty of improbabilities, but the essence of the film is captivating. A world-wide cooperative effort to ensure the survival of humans from an aggressive alien species. Some of us always wonder if we're alone in the universe. Imagine if we weren't. Could this happen? Could we save ourselves? Lots of wondering inspired by this movie. There's also a great cast, incredible special effects, and a few laughs to lighten up the more serious moments. Reality aside, this movie leaves you with a spark of hope that perhaps in the right circumstances, peace among nations is possible. Perhaps that's just wishful thinking.

The Human Stain

A thought provoking title for sure. An interesting tale of a secret kept, ultimately leading to an end. A nice way for Nicole Kidman to show her versatility. She was good in this. As were the rest of the cast. A slow moving story that wasn't quite as captivating as it tried to be. Interesting, and sad, exuding a strong sense of loneliness throughout.

The Bourne Supremacy

Fast paced intrigue. Some things in this I didn't like. But I guess it makes sense that such things need to happen to continue the story. Keeps it interesting. I expect there to be a part 3. And I'll definitely want to see it. High tech action with a not so obvious plot (or reasoning). It's an entertaining lesson in the skill of survival. At least, for one man.

Signs

I haven't been into horror movies for years. I make a point of trying to avoid them because the imagery haunts me later. I know it's fake, but that doesn't matter. In this movie, there are no gory scenes. Not one. There is silence...echoing, mysterious, terrifying silence. And intrigue, and incredible suspense. It keeps you guessing right to the end, and while watching and waiting, you get the impression that something terrible (or wonderful) can happen. There's no background score to drown out the lack of sound. I saw this one in the theater, and was literally shaking in fear (and was tremendously relieved when it was over and I could release that pent up anxiety some other way). I can't remember a single movie that caused this kind of fear. The story was very good, but the way it was presented, was just incredible. It's something I really want to see again, but haven't been able to work up the nerve to. It's just too scary!