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Visitors Review

Johnny-113 2012-05-19 13:01:39

Terrible film

I am a fan of Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman and Rob Reiner and hatedthis movie. The screenplay was expected, sappy and unimaginative. It'sas if a film student wrote it. I think Rob Reiner played it way toosafe...The Bucket List is a great story and unfortunately, was notexecuted well at all. Morgan Freeman read his narration in the exactsame tone as in The Shawshank Redemption.Jack Nicholson certainly didn't invent a new character for this film,either. The music was dull. The car racing sequence was embarrassing.All of the supporting characters were hollow. I didn't feel like I gotto know any of them. This would have been a good short story. Shame onRob Reiner.

2012-05-19 00:39:21

The Worst Film of 2007...?

Easily, this would have topped my list of the Worst Films of 2007 had I seen it a mere 2 weeks ago. Nevertheless, this could still be the worst movie-going experience of the New Year. It's a cloying, manipulative, overacted, shameless piece of over-sentimental drivel. Nicholson portrays yet another typical Nicholson role - a grotesque, exaggerated caricature of every performance he's given the past 2 decades or so, and Morgan Freeman resurrects his usual take on the everyman, cashing yet another easy paycheck. Rob Reiner, with more hits than misses under his expanding belt, has directed a horror show more frightening in its audacity than his own "Misery". My grade: D

2012-05-11 06:56:08

Great Movie

This review is from: The Bucket List [Blu-ray] (Blu-ray) Anyone who loves Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson will like this movie. Even though the ending wasn't what I expected, I truly enjoyed it.

2012-05-11 04:04:57

It's The End of All Strain, It's the Joy In Your Heart

Two world-class actors work together and have a hellacious time, and we get to share that fun. And we get to see Rob Morrow practice medicine again. The plot's wildly improbable and pretty simple: two guys learn that they are going to die, and assemble and execute a list of things they will do before they kick the bucket. BTW, the scene where Morgan Freeman gets his initial cancer diagnosis (on a cell phone, which is also improbable) is wonderfully performed. There are other scenes which reminded me of my wife's career work as a family advocate; she takes care of family members and visitors of emergency room patients. Arguably the first part of the movie is just like a day at work for her and for millions of other doctors, nurses and caregivers.One item on the bucket list was "to kiss the most beautiful girl in the world." In this movie, Jack Nicholson's character gets to do that by kissing his granddaughter, whom it looked like he'd never met before.I shared a song with the most beautiful girl in the world many years ago, called "The Waters of March," written by Antonio Carlos Jobim. The lyrics sound like nonsense; my girl and I used to debate what they meant.But the last words of the "doggerel" are, "It's the end of all strain, it's the joy in your heart." While looking at the Pyramids, Morgan Freeman tells Jack that the ancient Egyptians believed that, at death, you were asked two questions to gain admittance to heaven: did you have joy, and did you bring joy to others.Mayve Jobim and the ancient Egyptians synched up. Death is surely the end of all strain, and what matters is the joy in your heart. Nicholson tries to attain heaven by bringing his brand of erotic joy to Freeman; Freeman's decision to decline the offer regains him his marriage. Freeman tries to attain heaven by bringing his brand of family joy to Nicholson; Nicholson's immediate reaction is rage, anguish and withdrawal, wonderfully acted (reminded me a little of Nicholson's work in "Carnal Knowledge").But the common thread was family. Shelby Mustangs, Himalayas and skydiving aside, family is what brings us the greatest joy, and we can only get what we give.So, kiss the most beatiful girl in the world, and don't put it off. Embrace your family and find the greatest joy there is.

2012-05-09 19:51:52

Carpe Diem--Even If You're Pushing 80.

Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) is a relatively happy man. Carter is a self-taught man with a thirst for knowledge that is never quite quenched. He has three children, a devoted wife, and is an ace mechanic. A telephone call one morning from the hospital changes everything. The operation he had months before was unsuccessful and has terminal cancer in the brain. Carter finds himself in the hospital participating in a "promising" experimental treatment. Carter's roommate in the hospital turns out to be none other than the CEO of the hospital, Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson). Edward has built a fortune and an empire by turning failing hospitals around into relatively profitable businesses. However, as Edward soon learns profitable hospitals aren't necessarily customer friendly or the nicest places to stay. Edward has a similar illness as Carter and the men from two different worlds soon develop a friendship. One day, while waiting for his test results Carter begins writing a "bucket list" a list of all the things he would like to do before he "kicks the bucket". When he receives news that he only has about six months to live at the most, Carter abandons the idea. Edward, however, won't allow Carter to give up so easily and together the two men take off on a journey around the world living out their every whim, from skydiving, to eating lunch on one of the Great Pyramids, to racing expensive sports cars. Along the way the two men learn a great deal about friendship and themselves.THE BUCKET LIST is a fairly engaging, sentimental movie. The movie has a strong emotional appeal, especially if anyone has lost a parent or parental figure in their lives. Freeman and Nicholson make a great team and I wish they would have done more movies together in their careers. On the negative side, the opening and concluding segments of THE BUCKET LIST are a bit confusing. Also, I was a bit disappointed that the film didn't have more of Carter and Edward participating in more adventures. Despite the confusing moments and a lack of adventures, THE BUCKET LIST is still a pretty decent film with a lot of heart and an important message about living life to the fullest.

eguinea5 2012-05-09 14:34:52

The Best of the Best

One of the best movies I have ever seen! Academy Award Winner JackNicholson does it again, this time playing an elderly millionaire dyingof cancer. While undergoing chemotherapy the Nicholson character sharesa hospital room with the ever wonderful Morgan Freeman, who plays amechanic, also dying of cancer. They form a friendship, the basis forthis picture, that is as enduring as any other cinematic friendship wehave ever witnessed on the silver screen. Freeman creates a Bucket List(things to do before you kick the...) and the two men embark on a worldjourney to fulfill their lives, their hearts and the list. A movieabout a sensitive subject, one that we avoid because it is too real -dying - is so aptly and tenderly handled by director Rob Reiner thatyou feel wonderful watching it. Of course, there is sadness and crying,but at times there are hilarious moments and belly laughs. This is amovie we can all relate to, for those guys could be us..or maybe ourfathers. The acting is touching and tender, the best either actor hasever performed. The music is appropriate and the photography wonderful.You'll laugh, you'll cry and later you'll be discussing "The BucketList" for a long time to come. I highly recommend the film.

dunmore_ego 2012-05-08 03:42:39

Kicking it Old School...

Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson go on a green screen tour of theworld.In Irving Stone's novel about Freud, *Passions of the Mind*, there's aline about, "...a time in a man's life when he stops trying to live andstarts trying not to die." This movie is about turning those tables.And I guess its impact will only be felt when your social securitykicks in...Carter (Freeman) finds himself sharing a hospital room with Edward(Nicholson), who also happens to own the hospital. Carter feels he ison the downhill slide, so makes out a "bucket list" - a list of inanethings he plans to do before he kicks the bucket.Edward poo-poos the list, but somehow gets sucked into making it ajoint effort. Carter knows the list is impossible to fulfill - he'sjust a lowly mechanic with outlandish dreams - but Edward, being ahospital billionaire, tells him "money is no object," and off they go,special effects flying hither and thither.Rob Reiner phones in the directorial job. And on the DVD commentary,the snide writer (Justin Zackman) tells us that everyone should makeAND FULFILL a Bucket List - only saying so because he has absolutelynothing intelligent to say about his ludicrous movie.Geez, I wish *I* could meet a billionaire dying in a bed next to mineand fulfill MY bucket list.Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman go deep into The Method by pretendingto be two really old guys gasping on the threshold of Death'sdoor...oh, right...

2012-05-07 12:24:44

Measure your life by joy experienced

Whether you've written a list of the things you want to do with your life or just let them run through your mind, this becomes the "bucket list"...the list of things you want to do before kicking the bucket. The two main characters in this movie faced with the reality of death on the near horizon decide to live in the moment and find joy in the daily events of life.The movie begins with a cut throat businessman (Jack Nicholson as Edward Cole) and a true gentleman (Morgan Freeman as Carter Chambers) trapped in the same hospital room. Not immediate friends -- in fact they couldn't be more different but that allows each of them to grow and challenge each other.Their journey begins with their escape from the hospital where they begin their travels over the world...completing their list of things to do along the way. The list itself involves both general accomplishments and gestures of kindness. Crossing off each item is a milestone full of smiles for both.While most of the movie is carried by the main characters...their interaction with others truly conveys their personalities. Like place Edward in the boardroom ...full of power and control...stating his "no exceptions...two to a hospital room policy" which of course he wants the exception when he finally gets sick but is stuck sharing a room. Then you have Carter who finds so much of his personal joy and accomplishment with his family...supporting and loving time with them. Life has tests just like in the movie...people make choices...and it isn't about pass or fail...but rather what is right for you.As a whole, I think this movie is one of genuine heart...family...the moments in life that take your breath away. If you're looking for action...it has its funny skydiving moment among others but isn't that kind of movie. There is humor that made me laugh so hard that I cried and yet given the subject matter...moments of loss like death are sad. It is a mixture...just like many of the metaphors used throughout. In the end of your life...measure yourself by those that measure themselves by you...but live for the joy in the moment...as one doesn't need to get a death sentence to know that death could be sooner than we'd like to face.

2012-05-03 08:30:59

VERY PLEASED!!

This review is from: The Bucket List (DVD) The price was great!! The DVD arrived in the time promised and in very good condition. Thank you!

jkd15-1 2012-05-02 20:52:54

Very good coming to terms movie.

Yea some of the Freeman narration reminded me of Shawshank but still avery good movie.I thought going in, the movie would be little corny and stunty but Iwas happily wrong.Nicholson did a great job and I think its the first time I have seenhim cry on camera.He has great depth as an actor.Freeman is excellent as well but wasn't out of his element as much asNicholson. SO I give bigger kudos to Nickolson for bringing it off.May be an academy runner-up this year.

2012-05-01 02:05:05

Not really a comedy

I expected this film to be a comedy. There were a few funny scenes, but the overall seriousness of the main character's medical prognosis dominates the tone of the movie.Nicholson does very well with his role, but it's the same type of character we've seen him play many times before. The same goes for Morgan Freeman. Both are excellent actors, but they really aren't treading new territory with this outing.Also, the story is rather predictable and the characters seem to be cardboard cutouts.So why 4 stars?This movie has a lot of heart and delivers a beautiful message. It causes the watcher (or it SHOULD cause) to reflect inward and take a good look at himself (or herself). What am I doing with my life? How is my life affecting others? How do I want to be remembered?Sappy? Yes. Sentimental? Yes.But life can often be those things. How we deal with death is just as important as how we deal with life (I think Captain Kirk once said words to that effect, but I digress).Give this movie a try and watch it with a loved one. I guarantee the ending will make you smile.

eldenhiemer 2012-04-30 20:00:03

an interesting and very well done film.

This is the first review I have done of a film so if it is not as goodas some others I apologize, however having had the opportunity to seethis movie last evening I wanted to comment on it and recommend it toanyone looking for a drama/comedy.Coming into this film I have to admit that I had high expectations withthe Director and leading roll actors and I was not disappointed. Thenarration by Freeman was reminiscent of Shawshank Redemption, thecomedic timing of Nicholson is still bang on and the charm and skill ofboth these actors in this film really works against and with each otherto give great screen chemistry. The writing and pacing are both welldone and the supporting cast as well complimented this film to make itan all around great movie.This film sort of brings to light a subconscious want of people toalways "list" the things they want to do before they die in a very realway. Taken of course a little to the extreme for creative license but aconcept that I think any person can relate with. It touches base in alot of areas and is bound to hit home on some level with just about allviewers. Having had a fair amount of experience with persons near theend of their lives it was a refreshing look at the concept of death andthe behavior of those knowing what is in store for them in the not sodistant future.Without getting to deep or over analytical about the film I would sayit is a great film that most any viewer can find something to likeabout it. 9/10 is my rating and a strong recommendation to see thisfilm.

2012-04-25 06:33:35

A BEUTIFULL touching story about dying

Lets face it,were all going to die,and "THe Bucket List" has a message for all of us.Why do we stop speaking to our family for years for some stupid reason?Why are we scared to try everything in life that is offered to us?"The Bucket List"touches your heart and soul,and even though you know what the ending is,Its a wonderfull one.Just be prepared to cry,laugh,and think about your own life,and how you want to live it,plus,Jack Nicholson is in it.

deecableguy 2012-04-24 20:49:23

Bucket full of good acting!!!

I watched this one a couple of days ago.And i have to admit it's atouchy storyline with Jack Nicholson easing into the character ofcynical billionaire who finds out the rule he made for his own hospitalisn't really that great when he is detected with a brain cancer. On theother hand Morgan Freeman a hardworking mechanic,life loving and awalking encyclopedia who seem to know something about everything,landsup in the same hospital room as Nicholson's and thats when theemotional and entertainment roller-coaster begins.With days numberedthey end up making a list of "things to do before i kick thebucket".Nicholson is at his wittiest best with most of the one-linersworking for him.Freeman still have that charm from the last time i sawhim acting in Bruce almighty.Enjoy it with your family.

Josh Weinman 2012-04-24 01:56:40

heart warming story of friendship-strong male performances

On new years day, 2008, I saw the film "The Bucket List." It was not myfirst choice of a film that I wanted to see. To be honest, however, Iprobably would not have enjoyed any of the films that I would havechosen more. This film is very well done. I liked the screenplay, byJustin Zackham. I liked the direction, by the real talented Rob Reiner.And I was very impressed by the acting. Jack Nicholson and MorganFreeman did a superb job, playing two dying old guys who befriend eachother, and together have the adventure of their lives. The film is verygood. The plot involves this hospital owner-Edward Cole-who is dyingfrom cancer, and another cancer victim-Carter Chambers-who meets Colewhile getting treatment at the same hospital. After they both find outthat they each have only a few months to live, they agree to traveltogether all over the globe, and follow this list of tasks. They callit the bucket list.Nicholson gives a real touching performance as Ed Cole. He plays Colefunny, sad, stubborn, angry, strong, fearless, and loud. Morgan givesan equally touching performance as C. Chambers. He plays Chamberssmart, cool, romantic, funny, fearless, and emotional. Both men arevery moving in this film. They are great sharing the screen. I reallyenjoyed watching them play scenes together. It was for me a real treat.These guys, Nicholson and Freeman, are two of our finest actors. Andthis film is no exception.Even though "The Bucket List" is a small film about friendship, and themeaning of truly living, I do not recommend it for the preteens. Thereare some very adult scenes. However, families with teenagers will enjoyseeing it together.Josh Weinman

possum-10 2012-04-23 12:46:30

exceeded my expectations

I expected this story to be uplifting -- but not as much as it actuallylifted me. I did not expect the depth of relationship development anddepth of life values that were the integral part of the story -- thepromotional trailer items are valuable, but wisely keep it all on thelaugh track level. I was moved by this story in ways I have not beenmoved by a film in some time. Again, I loved the fact that the filmsurprised me by its value and meaning. well done Mr. Reiner, thank youfor insisting that this story be made the way it has been. this movietruly celebrates life and the things in life that matter. well done.Each of us in this life has a story to share and this picture of twostrangers who come to care for each other in transcending ways is agreat example of how we can enter each others lives with meaning andlove.

2012-04-16 17:12:45

A Bittersweet Comedy

The Bucket List overflows with laughter, tears, and sentimentality, to say nothing of stunning photography.I hadn't thought of Jack Nicholson as a comedian, nor would I have thought of pairing him with Morgan Freeman. . . but the combination works perfectly! One-liners are sprinkled through the film. Listen carefully so you don't miss one. The best is saved for last. Laugh out loud through tears.All in all, a perfect summer movie. Five stars!

reelinspiration 2012-04-16 01:35:12

Jack and Morgan are a pleasure to watch.

OK. I'll admit I have my guilty pleasures. These are films I see notbecause they are great art or original storytelling but because theymake me feel good. The Bucket List falls into this category. It's afeel good movie with some laughs. You can pretty much figure out thewhole story from the trailer - yet you still want to be in that world.Jack Nicholson plays a gruff businessman who is treated for cancer. Heeventually connects with his trivia spouting, family man roommate(Morgan Freeman) because of their shared condition. When they discoverthat they both have less than a year to live, they make a list ofthings they would like to do before they "kick the bucket." The problemI have with the script is that everything comes so easily to them.First, they have unlimited financial resources to travel the worldbecause one of them is rich. I could live with this contrivance if thefilmmaker used that screen time to develop the relationship of the twocharacters. But their relationship comes easily too. There are no realobstacles to overcome that would allow them to fully bond. But luckily,Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman give such lived-in performances thatwe feel like we know them. While gazing at the pyramids, they touch onuniversal themes such as the importance of faith and share someregrets. They challenge each other to discover the true joy in life. Itis certainly a joy to watch Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freedman at thetop of their game (and the top of the world!) If this movie inspiresyou to find the joy in life or contemplate it's meaning, I'd say thatwas worth the price of admission. Jana Segal, Reelinspiration dotblogspot

dallas_nyberg 2012-04-12 00:20:25

Buckets of tears....and fears

I'll have to admit that I knew very little about the premise of thismovie before I watched it, so I had not critic's hype to blur the storyfor me. My partner and I watched it together. The movie is a bit slowat first and doesn't pick up speed until the two main characters beginto interact. After that nothing short of an earthquake would drag youaway from it. It is almost documentary in it's telling and it works.What makes it work is the actors, they ease into their roles almostwith an almost uncomfortable confidence..The final scenes are highlyemotional and justifiably so.. there is no fairy tale ending to it. Thevery last scene almost releases you from the emotional ride the moviegave you.. After watching it, my partner and I discussed writing ourown bucket lists and then sat down an did one each... It was a greatinspiration to us both... A must see movie!

aourchan 2012-04-11 10:59:58

Exactly what you would expect, but thats not a bad thing

This movie is exactly what you would expect to see if you saw any ofthe trailers or previews for it. It is a feel good movie with twolegendary actors who play their parts very well.Before seeing the movie I could probably have told you basically theentire plot, but sometimes its nice to just sit back and watch a moviethat you know will lift your spirits. It is a good story, one thateveryone on the planet probably has dreamed about actually living out,and nothing crazy is thrown at you. They do not take many risks in thestory, but who cares. What the storyline does do extremely well is makeyou feel like running out and living life to the fullest. Hopefullythere are people who do not need a movie like this to make them feelextremely high on life, but there are definitely people out there whocan use a pick me up like this.The acting is as you would expect from two great actors and each ofthem have their moments when they shine. Everyone in the movie does areally good job with no complaints, except for the doctor that istaking care of Jack. He doesn't really do anything wrong, but I justremember him from Numb3rs and it is strange seeing him as a doctorrather than an FBI agent running around with a gun in hand.Anyways to sum it up, you get exactly what you pay for with this movie,a feel good flick that will lift your spirits and provide some goodmoments from two legendary actors.