Rita Kempley (Craig Cola/ washingtonpost.com)

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It's Friday afternoon and you can almost taste the popcorn. Whether you're planning to hit the theater or your local video store, Rita's here to help you wade through the sea of choices.

It's also your chance to be a movie critic. Share your picks and pans, and tell us how things would be different if you ran Hollywood. Who would you cast in your movies and why?

A transcript follows.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

Which film should I see?: Rita, need your help. Choose one for me:

- "Adaptation"
- "Catch me of you Can"
- "City of God" (I'm itching for this one)
- "Final Destination 2" (looks silly, but fun)
- My wife wants to see "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," but it seems lame to me, the rave reviews haven't really convinced me otherwise. Is it truly funny?

By the way for the others in the forum, I suggest "Donnie Darko" at the Visions Cinema midnight movie. Awesome theatre, awesome film, awesome time.

Thanks, Rita.

Rita Kempley: If your wife wants to see MBFGW, I think I'd go with the most mainstream of your choices--"Catch Me," which is amusing, lite action adventure. I'd suggest "Adaptation," but I believe the movie caters too much to screenwriters as well as wannabes. I enjoyed it a lot.

Miss Edie the Egg Lady.: Hello, dear. Last "chat" one of your Suspects had some most unkind things to say about me. Thank you so much for coming to the defense of this rotund, and not terribly attractive old gal. You are a jewel!

Rita Kempley: No, your are the jewel. Remember when it comes jewels, size counts. Kisses and hugs.

Washington, D.C.: Is The Quiet American going to be shown in Washington? Or has it come and gone and I missed it? I know Michael Caine was pushing for its post 9/11 release but I never heard anything after that.

Rita Kempley: It's scheduled to open next Friday.

Washington, D.C.: Dear Queen Rita,

Would you explain what is a character actor and what is a method actor? I hear these terms used all the time and have realized for a while I really don't know what the heck those descriptions means.

Thanks,

Your faithful subject.

Rita Kempley: With pleasure. A character actor is somebody who's not incredibly good-looking, who gets work because he or she is a terrific actor and can play all kinds of characters. But in the studio'smind, they don't have enough charisma to carry a picture.
Method actors think they have to become the character--like Marlon Brando. They' stay in character on the set even when eating lunch. They gain weight, lose weight and so on. I

Mister Jimmy: Greetings, Rita. Looking forward to having you back in the paper next week! The funniest thing I read all week was this classic quote from Britney Spears on the Sundance festival -- "Sundance is weird. The movies are weird -— you actually have to think about them when you watch them." Can you believe she actually said that?!

I also heard that Redford was FURIOUS with her because she was talking on her cellphone and talking during the movies. That Britney, what a class act.

Rita Kempley: Greetings, Mister Jimmy: That's pretty amazing and oh, so true. I didn't know she was capable of thought, so that's probably why she was yaking on the cell phone. I heard one of the hits was "Station Agent." It's about a dwarf who befriends a hot dog vendor. Sounds silly, but my friend loved it.

BROOMES ISLAND: Dearest Rita: Poor Meryl Streep. She got administratively dissed at the SAG awards. Well, it goes to show you that there are TOO MANY Academy Awards wannabes. The OSCAR is the real thing, Rita. All the rest are pretenders to the throne of Aragon.

Speaking of Aragon, I'm calling MBFGW winning the best movie. It's the most effective combination of schmaltz and innoffensiveness! (and a pretty good movie). LOTR will not get best movie, but might next year ... or all three will be awarded some sort of special Oscar next year.

Best supporting actor: Smeagol ... but not Gollum.

Anyway, have a nice February. Try and ease yourself back to work! I'll be nice to see your byline again!

Rita Kempley: Dear Broomes Island,
Good to hear from you. We missed you last chat. I doubt that MBFGW will be nominated for best picture. I bet Tower will get a nomination, but no Oscar. Alas, the actor who played Smeagol-Gollum won't be nominated. Thanks for the good wishes.

Washington, D.C.: Re: Character Actor

So explain people like Jack Black!

Rita Kempley: Jack Black isn't my idea of a leading man and I'm fairly sure he couldn't carry a serious movie. He didn't even carry "Shallow Hal." Oddly,. that is the most requested video on the hotel-motel circuit.

Looking for two new movies: "Max" and "Blind Spot: Hitler's Secretary," a documentary about an interview with one of Hitler's secretaries shortly before her death.

Any idea when they will be playing in the metro area?

Thanks.

Rita Kempley: "max" was supposed to open Jan. 24, but was rescheduled for later in the month. (If it shows up then, I'll be surprised.) I've seen nothing on "Blind Spot," sorry.

McLean, Va.: I was at Sundance and saw "The Station Agent". It was terrific. The story does sound strange, but it was funny and an interesting story about friendship. Patricia Clarkson was great in it and she was also terrific in "Pieces of April". Britney Spears needs to stick to movies that require less than five brain cells and for the love of God can she quit chomping on gum?

Rita Kempley: Hi McLean: Thanks for the details. I've also heard that "Whale Rider" was a highlight. But darned if I can remember what it was about. I don't think it was whale-riding though. Clue us in, won't you?

Boca Raton, Fla.: Hi, Rita, I'm a brand new "viewer", so forgive me if this observation has been made ad nauseum. Is it just me, or are most of the movies currently playing in theaters a bunch of dreck? I haven't even had the urge to go see one since the holidays -- to see Lord of the Rings II. Thanks! I'll watch and see how the other listeners play.

Bill in Boca

Rita Kempley: Welcome Boca Ra:
We always appreciate a rant, even if we have heard it before. Get it out of your system, before it poisons your soul. Purge. Actually, I have seen a lot of good movies in Dec. and Jan. Have you had a chance to see "The Hours" or "About Schmidt" or "Antowne Fisher"? All of them are excellent.

Washington, D.C.: How can a commoner get into places like Sundance and see the films? Are tickets available to people not in the business?

Rita Kempley: Yes, a commoner can get into festivals like Sundance, but I would recommend a smaller festival like Telluride. I believe you can buy packages and workshops in advance. They provide some tickets for folks who aren't press or entertainment insiders. But the venues are small at Sundance. Check with the festivals before you go and see what your options are.

WHALE RIDER: Queenie (from the Web site): The film tells the story of a young girl’s fight to prove her love, her leadership and her destiny, and is shot on location in Whangara, on the East Coast. Directed by Niki Caro (Memory and Desire), Whale Rider is based on the novel by acclaimed New Zealand writer Witi Ihimaera (The Matriarch, Tangi). It stars newcomer Keisha Castle-Hughes, Rawiri Paratene, Vicky Haughton, and Cliff Curtis (Collateral Damage, Training Day, Blow, Jubilee, The Insider, Three Kings, and Once Were Warriors).

Rita Kempley: Shoot. I was hoping there would be whales.

Blacksburg, Va.: Fans of Andy Serkis (Smeagol/Gollum) might like to know that you can see him in person, as it were, in "Topsy-Turvey", the movie about Gilbert and Sullivan that came out a couple of years ago. He plays the choreographer of "Mikado" (John D'Aubon) and steals every scene he's in. He ought to have a long and happy career even without an Oscar!

Rita Kempley: Thanks for reminding us Blacksburg. They are going to have to figure out someway of rewarding voice-over actors because there are going to be many more situations of this kind in years to come.

Lakewood, Colo.: You mean "Shallow Hal" leads "Nurses in Chains" in the hotel-motel video race?

Rita Kempley: Yes. I think it's the thought of seeing a skinny gal in a fat suit.

Re: Adaptation: My boyfriend and I are computer programmers and we loved Adaptation! I think anyone with a sense of the absurd will enjoy it too, not just screenwriters. I got the joke(s).

Rita Kempley: Oops. I didn't mean to sound snotty. I'm gald you got a kick out it. I just didn't think that many people would recognize the references to Robert McKee, the self-appointed guru of film writing. He's always talking about image systems and goofy notinos such as the aposition of the apostion. I never figured that one out. And many people said they were disappointed with the ending, which meant to me that he had finally given up and gone with a mainstream structure.

Herndon, Va.: QUEEN OF ALL: Is it just me, or have nearly all the "major" Hollywood projects lately been either pathetic, or, even if decent, staying so closely to some formula they might as well be advertised with the picture of a test tube? (Please don't say it's just me) Steve

Rita Kempley: Dear Steve: It isn't just you. Although as I said to our new pal, Boca Ra, I do think there have been some good recent releases. Of course, we're talking about four or five films out of the annual output of approximately 345.

Lincoln Park Treehouse, Washington, D.C.: I saw Joel Siegel on "GMA" this morning. He said that foreign movies that aren't nominated for an award in their own country are not eligible to receive Best Foreign Movie at the Oscars. This means that "Monsoon Wedding" and "Y Tu Mama Bien" (or whatever that was called) are ineligible. Does this make sense to you, oh Fair Queen?

Rita Kempley: Dear Treedweller: I think he meant that each country had to enter a film they wished to nominate in the foreign film category. That's true. But they don't have to get an award as far as I know. I believe many countries don't have awards ceremonies until after the Oscars.

MagnoliaGuy, Alexandria, Va.: Two bits Queen: Just wanted to share my excitement at the fact that The Quiet American with Michael Caine is finally opening in D.C. next week according to the Weekend back page. AND for fans of Andy Serkis(sp?) he plays real record producer Martin Hannett in the delightful 24 Hour Party People now on video in America. For fans of Manchester, UK bands it is a must see. Cheers!

Rita Kempley: Thanks for the reccommendations, MG.

Re: Pure Dreck: Was that a troll? I can't remember. So many good to A+ movies out at one time:

Adaptation
Pianist
Hours
About Schmidt
Chicago
Two Towers
Catch ... Can
Confessons ... Mind
Narc
City of God
Far from Heaven
Rabbit-Proof Fence
Real Women have Curves

And this doesn't even include older hold-overs like Greek Wedding and Columbine. Makes me regret bothering to see Gangs of New York and Frida, which weren't bad.

Rita Kempley: Yes and Igby Goes Down, About a Boy, Y Tu Mama (which I didn't get but everybody else did) and The Runner.

Nani/Texas: Hi Rita. I especially enjoy character actors (Chris Cooper for one); they're often the best actors in a film and play the most interesting roles.
I'm feeling rather abashed having received the following response from one of the online hosts after suggesting The Man Who Wasn't There for his once a year movie viewing. "SORRY, NANI, I HAVE MY STANDARDS. I WON'T WATCH JUST ANY TRASH!" Trash? Did I miss something? Well, no matter, I'm off to the nervous hospital to pick up Mr. Tilders. He has a 3-hour furlough and we're going on a picnic. I stitched myself a new bonnet; I hope he'll like it.

Rita Kempley: Nani, Where have you been? I figured and EraserheadGuy (who has been missing for months) had run away together. By the way, do you know anything about this mystery. I am sure Mr. T will love your bonnet. This person goes to one movie a year: How does the rude jerk know from trash. That's infuriating and not to mention wrong-headed. Maybe he-she should replace Mr. T in the home.

New York, N.Y.: I think that I was one of the dreck loving masses, but this year I have improved and seen a lot of thoughtful movies or not as widely released that I might have skipped in past years -- The Hours, Frida, Igby Goes Down.

I still love dumb slapstick once in awhile, but I am trying to be more adverturous.

Rita Kempley: I still love a good fart joke, but as Bobby Farrell confided to me "it can't just be any fart joke." (He called to tell me he was mad at me for giviing Shallow Hal an F in Entertainment Weekly.)

Re: Miss Edie: I just want to clear up ... last time I was referring to the revolting character in the movie -- not to our Dear Miss Edie hear on the chat.

Rita Kempley: I know she will be relieved. I remember you wrote that you had finally discovered where Miss Edie got the inspiration for her moniker

Alexandria, Va.: I just wanted to know your opinion on About Schmidt. I understand why it is a good film, in terms of the outstanding acting, but in terms of plot, I felt depressed and empty walking out of the theater. I found it to be very slow and somewhat boring at times. But the overwhelming sadness was quite surprising due to the fact I thought it was supposed to have some very funny parts to it.

Rita Kempley: I thought is was touching and often funny, but I do see why it could depress some of us. Schmidt was living a life of quiet desperation and forced to realize that he had been marking time for all those years. I think that is a sad story, but also uplifting. It's not "A Wonderful Life" mind you, but Schmidt does learn that the smallest act counts for somehting.I felt sad, too. That's the point though, isn't it? To feel something.

Chicago, Ill.: "Shallow Hal" is the most requested film on the hotel-motel circuit? Huh. Seriously, where does porn rank?

Rita Kempley: Hi Chicago. I think of Shallow Hal as a form of spiritual pornography.

Georgetown goofer-offer: Just saw Chicago a half hour ago and loved it! Even though I'm not a Gere fan, he was excellent ... can't help thinking that they ripped off the "Cabaret" style though ....

Rita Kempley: Hi Goofer:
Wonder what Chicago thought of "Chicago." I actually liked "Cabaret" much better. I thought it had depth and originality. Glad you enjoyed the musical though. It was the garter belts, wasn't it?

Silver Spring, Md.: Rita,

Hi. I bet you have addressed this issue before, but I want to know how you handle talkers/noise makers in movies. People are so used to chatting it up while they view movies at home, they forget that a movie theater is different. It is rare for me to go to a movie without having a talker nearby and the movie experience being ruined because I spend way too much time trying to figure out whether I should turn around and ask them to be quiet or just suck it up for fear of reprisal by a crazy. There was a somewhat crazy guy behind for the last LOTR and I didn't want to take my chances. Do you turn around and politely say, "Will you please be quiet?" or something else? Or do you only go to screenings where noise is not a problem?

Rita Kempley: Have you tried the Landmark theaters at Bethesda Row. They draw serious film-goers, who realize that they aren't more entertaining than the movie they came to see. I think you have to be careful about telling people, however poltitely, to be quiet. If it's a couple of sweet little old grannies, maybe. Otherewise, I think you'd be better off callig an usher. Also try to join a film club. There are several in town. Unfortunately, ear plugs are not an option. Good luck.

Working Stiff in Downtown, D.C.: Submitting early and not a regular, so forgive me if this has been discussed in earlier chats, but what are your thoughts on The Hours? Despite the great performances, I found the movie a little over the top dramatically (particularly the Laura Brown segment) and at times very boring. I did enjoy the book very much.

What are the chances that Meryl Streep will win with her performance in Adaptation? The dial tone scene still makes me chuckle.

Rita Kempley: Welcome, Working Stiff:
I don't think we've had much of a chance to discuss "Hours." I liked the performances--especially Nicole Kiman's and Julianne Moore's. I think Meryl Streep is always too actory, what with the hands flopping about. I think you always have trouble with a movie after you have read the book. Of course, there are exceptions like LOR and the Godfather. You have it cast and art-directed in your head . I haven't read the book, but after all the praise, I better get out to the local literary conglomerate.

Rosslyn, Va.: I think Erasurehead Guy and Wiredog ran away with each other. I'm convinced they were one and the same person.

Rita Kempley: Hmm. Separated at birth, eh?

Arlington, Va.: When I address people who are talking a bit loud in the movies, I start out by saying, "I'm sorry, but I don't think you realize how your voice carries. Could you speak a bit more quietly?"

I usually get a good response doing this.

Rita Kempley: Thanks for the advice. Again, it depends on whom you are addressing. I try something along those lines myself.

Bowie, Md.: Well, the stage versions of both Chicago and Cabaret were choreographed by Bob "skimpy black outfits with garter belts and bowler hats" Fosse, so they do look a lot alike.

Rita Kempley: Good answer.

Washington, D.C.: Best movies I saw at Sundance were:

The Station Agent -- Simple and delightful

Pieces of April -- Great writing, acting and very touching

The Whale Rider -- great for the family and yes, there are whales

American Splendor -- This won the Grand Prize and is deserving for its creative script and directing

I also liked The Cooler with William H. Macy, about a guy so unlucky he is hired by a casino boss to go to hot bettors and touch them so he can "cool" them off.

Anyone can go to Sundance, and it is great fun, but getting oh so crowded.

Rita Kempley: Thanks for the heads up.

Alexandria, Va.: Whaaaaaat? Richard Gere wears a garter belt in his new flick? This I gotta see!

Rita Kempley: Yes. And he didn't shave his legs either. All the sexier, if you ask me.

Arlington, Va.: Re: About Schmidt
Interestingly enough, Jack Nicholson expressed his surprise at the Golden Globes that anyone didn't think it was a comedy.

Rita Kempley: Welll, yeah, as compared to the Shining.

About "Shmidt": One problem did occur to me: his only daughter was about mid-30s, wasn't she?

So if he's been an empty-nester for 15 years, why hadn't he taken more time to talk to her or cultivate friendships? It's like he reached lonely retirement by spending the last 15 years in an isolation cell with just his work and wife.

Rita Kempley: I think that was his problem. He didn't develop his reltionship with his daughter--whom he bossed around like his wife. He let his life go by unlived.

Rita Kempley: Thanks for dropping in, you all. Hope to hear from you again on the week of February 10.
Bye now.

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