FILM REVIEW -"Olympus Has Fallen"- This is the time of year that many average and below average films are released. This film is not one of those.  It is an above average action packed roller coaster ride. It will not end up on anyones top 10 list at the end of the year, but it will entertain you from start to finish.  Yes, we have seen the plot before.  It took place on the President's plane, and on a train in other thrillers.  But there is something special about the White House.  It intrigues us.  So when terrorists take over this national treasure and hold the President hostage, FBI agent Gerard Butler fights the good fight from the inside.  Die Hard fans would appreciate the situation. Aaron Eckhart plays the hard nosed President who refuses to give up the secret code that could cause a disaster.  Morgan Freeman does a professional job as the Speaker of the House who is forced into several difficult decisions.  Ashley Judd, Angela Bassett and Dylan McDermott are a welcome addition to the cast. The special effects are top notch and director Antoine Fuqua uses his talents to the fullest. Check this one out, you won't be disappointed. Action Adventure 119 minutes R  21/2 stars

FILM REVIEW - "Quartet"- An original setting and storyline for a film that has a target audience of the over fifty generation, but that should be seen by anyone younger who needs to learn about the wisdom that comes with age.  Themes include living life to the fullest, getting second chances, setting standards for ones self, accepting ones limitations, the nature of pressure, knowing when to let go, and passing your skills & knowledge on to our youth. This is the directorial debut for Dustin Hoffman.  The plot centers around a retirement home for performers in the entertainment field, many from the world of Opera. It stars Maggie Smith, Michael Gambon  and a wonderful comic role by Billy Connolly. The one drawback is a far too quick
ending that tied up loose ends a bit too neatly.  But clearly this is the best new movie for the first three month of the 2013 movie season.  Comedy  PG-13  3 1/2 stars