WGN Morning News Blog

“THE SIMPSONS MOVIE”
It’s always a sketchy thing when a popular TV show gets made into a movie. Occasionally, it’s a disaster. I’m guessing the latest to make the transition will be anything but disaster.

After 18 years of being one of Rupert Murdoch’s biggest cash cows, the long awaited "Simpson’s Movie" finally hits the multi-plexs.... and the only word to describe it, (think of me talking like Mr. Burns), "excellent."

The big screen doesn't add much but then it really doesn't need to. The genius writing and yellow characters are all still there. Like a really good, but not great, episode of the TV show, there’s 87 minutes of all of the regular characters, a few celebrity cameos, and a self-mocking story that'll leave you laughing.

Homer has caused an environmental disaster that threatens all of Springfield, causing all of Springfield to want to kill him, so he's forced to save the day and win back the trust of his family. How or why isn't as important as that it's done with typical irreverence.

Add in a bit of a Bart nude scene and a potty mouthed Marge, because they can...and you've got deluxe version of the show with no commercials. A PG -13 rated, Dean’s List "A".... and make sure that you stay for all of the credits.

“NO RESERVATIONS”
For romantics who need more than a homer and Marge kiss, there's "No Reservations" with Catherine Zeta Jones.

Based on the German film, "Mostly Martha", Jones is a hyper-driven restaurant chef whose whole life is her food. Things get interrupted when she suddenly finds herself caring for her 10 year old niece, played by Abigail Breslin, from "Little Miss Sunshine."

Add to this control freaks' woes, is a new chef in her kitchen, Aaron Eckhart, who’s supposed to help, but whose free and easy style are like oil and water with hers.

Can you already taste the ending of this film?

All of the elements for a cliché soufflé were bubbling, but great performances and a delicate flavoring of heart keep the story light and delicious.

I’ve run out of food metaphors...so I’ll just say "No Reservations" is a charming, romantic comedy. A Dean's List "B."

“TRASHED”
Also worth seeing is the documentary, "Trashed" by Chicago filmmaker, Bill Kirkos, who explores the social and environmental effect of the garbage industry. Catch it at the Music Box Theater.

“I KNOW WHO KILLED ME”
Not screened for the critics is Lindsey Lohan's "I Know Who Killed Me." Maybe knowing how bad this must be is what sent Lilo over the edge this week. It’s described as a missing identity thriller. Apparently, what’s missing, is anything good.

‘WHO’S YOUR CADDY”
And screened for the critics late last night so we’d all miss our deadlines, is "Who's Your Caddy" starring Outkast's Big Boi, who plays a famous rapper who clashes with a country club who doesn't want him admitted. Sounds like this should be called, "Who's Your Caddy-shack."