Super flicks invade theatres

This holiday season has blessed moviegoers with a multitude of fine motion pictures representing a variety of film genres. With the Academy Awards in the not-so-distant future, Hollywood's major players are lining up for the chance to befriend the ever-elusive Oscar.

James Cameron emerged from three years of diligent labor to complete Titanic, unscathed by rumors that his indulgent budget, rather than the sinking of the famous sea vessel, is the true disaster of the film.

For the film, Cameron created a fictional account of that fateful voyage centering on the evolving romance between poor American artist Jack, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, and Rose, a wealthy young lady discontent with her arranged engagement, eloquently performed by Kate Winslet. Their love affair reaches a climax when disaster strikes, and they are forced to follow their hearts because of the limited future held in certain death.

In order to accurately recreate the enormous ship, the filmmaker utilized underwater robot and video technology to explore the actual vessel, footage that would later be used in the film. The result is the realization of Cameron's dream, a true masterpiece. He created a three-hour-plus saga of truly epic proportions that amazed the eyes and softened the hearts of viewers everywhere.

Acclaimed director Steven Spielberg stepped even further into nautical history with his account of a 19th century slave revolt aboard the now infamous ship, Amistad. Although the film's release was surrounded by controversy regarding its historical accuracy (Spielberg, not Stone, Spielberg!), Amistad proved not only entertaining, but enlightening as well.

The story, which is set in a courtroom, relies on strong characters portrayed emotionally by Dijmon Hounsou, Matthew McConaughey and Anthony Hopkins, who once again proves his versatility through his memorable performance as John Quincy Adams.

As he did with Schindler's List, Spielberg reestablishes the power of the motion picture to bring forth emotions, draw tears, clinch fists and use the heart to open the mind.

On a lighter note, Barry Levinson's Wag the Dog displayed, or better stated, imagined, the ability of people in high places to save face, and votes, by manipulating the media. The president of the United States, amidst allegations of sexual misconduct, calls upon his public relations assault squad to quell these rumors until the upcoming election.

To do so, a war, or "pageant," as it is quaintly referred, is created using the media to provide the adequate smoke-screen.

In addition to a witty screenplay, Wag the Dog boasts heavy-hitters Dustin Hoffman and Robert De Niro, commendable performances by Anne Heche and Denis Leary, and a bit of comedic interlude courtesy of Woody Harrelson and Willie Nelson.

The film is entertaining from beginning to end, and leaves the audience with one question: What if? With the perspiration pouring from the Oval Office since the film's release, I can only wonder.

If you're looking for movie laughs this holiday season, As Good As It Gets is, quite simply, as good as it gets. James L. Brooks' film is based on a brilliant script with interesting characters interacting in an undeniably New York fashion.

Jack Nicholson is spectacular in his performance of Melvin Udall, a romance novelist with an obsessive-compulsive disorder. So good is Nicholson's showing, look for him to give Firestorm star and perennial Oscar contender, Howie Long, a run for the best actor nod.

As Melvin adheres to his strict daily regimen, anyone, or anything for that matter, is subject to his verbal tirades.

First in line is Melvin's neighbor, Simon, a gay artist played by Greg Kinnear, and his beloved dog, Verdell. After routinely spoiling their morning, Melvin receives his daily reality check from Carol, played by Helen Hunt, the only waitress in town willing to tolerate him and his plastic cutlery. In a strange turn of events, the three are thrust into a road-trip together, and an unusual love story ensues.

With an excellent supporting cast including Cuba Gooding Jr., Skeet Ulrich, Shirley Knight and newcomer Jesse James (not that one, this kid's only 7-years-old), As Good As It Gets is quality entertainment from start to finish.

With the abundance of worthy films this season, I humbly restrain from Oscar predictions. However, Hollywood's biggest night won't pass without mention of these fine features. All four films are currently playing in local theaters. I urge you to choose one of your liking and see it on the big screen.