Paper Heart (PG-13) ★★★★

Paper Heart’s main theme is love or the notion of love. Charlyne Yi, (Knocked Up 2008) is a talented actress, writer, comedian and artist. At the beginning of this documentary, she proclaims that she doesn’t … Read more

Paranormal Activity (R) ★★★☆

Yes, This One Will Scare You!

“Paranormal Activity” is just the kind of scary film that I can sit through in a dark movie theater and appreciate. It’s not a slasher film nor one of … Read more

A Serious Man (R) ★★★★

The Coen Brothers Get Seriously Personal

Be prepared for a multi-layered film that reaches out and dares you to examine your own upbringing and core value beliefs. Also be prepared for a seriously funny film! … Read more

Astro Boy (PG) ★☆

Great Visuals, Storyline Too Depressing for Kids

The film is an animated science fiction story based on the Japanese comic book character ‘Astro Boy.’ The look is futuristic with elements of a ‘Jetsons World’— space … Read more

Zombieland (R) ★★★

Zombies Invade Chicago During a Red Carpet Event

I’m not a big fan of horror films so the fact that this film is basically a comedy loosely based on horror is ok with me. I … Read more

On The Red Carpet with Harold Ramis – “Year One” Premiere

Sarah’s Backstage Pass attended a Red Carpet event for the premiere of the film Year One and the honoring of Harold Ramis, the recipient of the Just For Laughs Lifetime Achievement Award. The award is … Read more

Rumer Willis Sorority Row Interview

The interview took place in an elaborate suite at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Chicago in September of 2009. Rumer was on a press junket for her film “Sorority Row.” She’s the daughter of Demi … Read more

Julie & Julia (PG-13) ★★★★

Culinary Cinematic Delight

If this film doesn’t coerce you to drag out those old cookbooks and begin whipping up some savory dishes for you and your significant other, than I’m not sure what will! The … Read more

Ponyo (G) ★★★★

Magical Story that will Entertain and Teach Your Children

Parents and Grandparents of pre-schoolers and grade school kids, run–don’t walk to your local cinema as “Ponyo” is the film for you! Artistically and visually this … Read more

The September Issue (PG-13) ★★★

This film is a documentary directed by R.J. Cutler which conveys the painstaking process of how Vogue magazine compiles its ‘Fall fashion Bible,’ the September issue. In 2007, the September issue of Vogue weighed nearly … Read more

500 Days of Summer (PG) ★★★

Relationships Aren’t Always Easy 

Summer (Zooey Deschanel) stars in this heart-wrenching story about what it feels like to be in love and how it essentially feels to be ‘dumped.’  The title, “500 days … Read more

Charlyne Yi and Jake Johnson Interview

Sarah’s Backstage Pass was granted an interview with writer, actress and artist Charlyne Yi and actor Jake Johnson both starring in the film “Paper Heart.”  We met at the James Hotel in Chicago in July … Read more

Yara Shahidi “Imagine That” Interview Hollywood Blvd. Woodridge, IL

The long line outside Hollywood Blvd. Theater in Woodridge, Illinois looked endless as I approached the entrance with staff writer Jessica Aymond. Mobs of little girls, boys, and parents were waiting eagerly and patiently to Read more

Imagine That (PG) ★★★★

Quality Time With Dad 

Hey, I’m with you if you’re questioning the thought of ‘Eddie Murphy’ in a family comedy film? Fortunately, I’m here to tell you that he’s tame in the film and he’s Read more

The Proposal (PG-13) ★★★☆

Say I Do or Else!

If you’re looking for a near perfect romantic comedy then you won’t be disappointed with “The Proposal.” The film boasts big name stars: Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Betty White, Mary Read more

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (PG) ★★★★

Historical Personas Come Alive!

Night at the Museum: Battle of The Smithsonian is an example of an entertaining family film that all can enjoy. As a former teacher I say bravo to director Shawn LevyRead more

Star Trek (PG-13) ★★★★

A New Generation of Trekkie Fans

“Star Trek” the film is an immensely enjoyable nostalgic space journey down celestial lane. The franchise celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2006 and by the looks of this film; … Read more

Up (PG) ★★★★

Brilliant Spectacle of a Film for All Ages

Walt Disney Pixar Animation Studios presents “Up” in 3D. This film is a brilliant tribute to the genre of animation. Not only is the story a wonderful … Read more

X Men Origins: Wolverine (PG-13) ★★★

I am The Wolverine!

Hugh Jackman as the comic book character Wolverine is hands down or shall I say blades down the best of the best in this category. He’s got it– don’t even try … Read more

Angels and Demons (PG-13) ★★★☆

Trouble in Vatican City

Angels and Demons is a brilliantly filmed mystery thrill ride of a puzzle with Ron Howard at the directing helm. The backdrop is the architectural, historical and spiritual city of Rome. … Read more

Fast & Furious (PG-13) ★★★

Off Road Racing Thrill Ride

Vin Diesel is back in the fourth installment of the series and this is by far the best of the lot. The muscle cars are way cool, the chicks are … Read more

Adventureland (R) ★★★☆

Ah…Yes, the 80’s

Adventureland is a romantic comedy with a summer setting of 1987 centering on a college grad’s experience working at a local amusement park named none other than: Adventureland.  The story is written … Read more

I Love You, Man (R) ★★★

‘Bromance’ in LA

“I Love You Man,” is a ‘laugh out loud’ comedy stars two of the funniest guys who are becoming the new ‘go to’ comedy actors in Hollywood. Paul Rudd and Jason Read more

Coraline (PG) ★★☆

A Kid’s Worst Nightmare

The film is an animated fantasy story based on the children’s novel by Neil Gaiman and directed by Henry Selick (The Night Before Christmas) and (James and the Giant Peach). It’s … Read more