28 Days Later

A lot of people will leave "28 Days Later" and have nightmares about being attacked by zombie-like creatures; it is definitely graphic enough. But this movie is more than just a thriller. Like Danny Boyle's other films "Trainspotting" and "The Beach," it is a reflection on human nature, a societal commentary.

The premise of the movie: The hero (an Irish newcomer named Cillian Murphy, who will probably stir things up like Ewan MacGregor did after "Trainspotting") wakes up after 28 days in a coma to find the whole of England depopulated, the result of a disastrous plague that infects people with Îrage.'

The movie reflects on the fine line between sanity and madness ÷ a distinction that is well illustrated with unique cinematography. Madness, shown with grainy 80's-style shots, contrasts with sharp, vibrant colors: Reality. Visually, this film is amazing.

The coolest part is that the director somehow managed to empty out entire blocks of London, and it is a really spooky thing to see London totally empty. They may have done this digitally, but I don't know if they had the budget to do that.

This movie should be a pleaser for people who like a good horror flick, but it is also a way deeper shock to your core than a Freddy Krueger movie.

÷ Cara O'Connor

Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines

For die-hard fans of the "Terminator" series (dating back to around the time when most of us were born), "Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines" will be a thrill. For those not so enamored with the first two, T-3 will most likely be only satisfactory (more so for the price of a matinee ticket).

Unlike the first two Terminator installments, T-3 is directed by Jonathan Mostow ("U-571, Breakdown"). Mostow's style differs from director of T-1 and T-2, James Cameron, in that every moment is meant to be intense, rather than the "build-up, calm-down" feel that Cameron provided.

Of course, Arnold Schwarzenegger returns in T-3 öö as a good guy for the second straight "Terminator" film. Although Arnold's heart seems to be less into this one than the prior two, he gives another entertaining öö and often comical öö performance.

To not give too much away, T-3 will definitely leave most viewers with an unexpected feeling as they leave the theater. Lets put it this way: Terminator 4 and 5 are not likely far behind.

÷ Shane Dale