AL01-3

This is one of the few sequels that actually eclipses the work of the original. In this edition of the Superman series, the caped superhero must battle three supervillians and his nemesis Lex Luthor, while learning to cope with his feelings for Lois Lane and the responsibilities that come with being a hero.

The potential for having too many storylines is present in this movie, but the plots and subplots are skillfully crafted together, and an interesting, entertaining movie is the result.

The acting, writing and directing are all excellent, and this movie is appropriate for the entire family, as it's full of funny, exciting and intriguing situations and sequences. I would recommend this movie to all audiences.

*** and 1/2 out of ****

This is widely considered to be one of John Wayne's best films and with good reason. His character, Ethan, is obsessed with tracking down a band of Native Americans who killed members of his family and abducted his niece. It is apparent from his unwavering dedication to his quest that he will either catch up with and kill the Indian Chief responsible for the raid against his family or die in the effort.

The Searchers is an incredible character study and the way in which Ethan is consumed with desire for vengeance is fascinating. This is a much darker role than the usual John Wayne character, but he plays the part extremely well. This is also one of the last and one of the best collaborations between Wayne and director John Ford.

Little Caesar is a movie that has to be judged in its historical context. It is the original gangster movie that launched countless numbers of imitators, and although it's not up to the standard of some of the later films of the genre, it remains very enjoyable viewing. Especially noteworthy is Edward G. Robinson's performance as the determined Rico.

The characters are somewhat one-dimensional, but they are skillfully and efficiently used in telling the story of Rico's rise to power. I would highly recommend this movie to film buffs and those that are big fans of the gangster genre.