Below are Mini Reviews from Cineman Syndicate for two films opening on November 20, 2009.

THE BLIND SIDE. Precious for the tailgating crowd, this mainstream picture tells the true story of an African-American ward of the state adopted by a rich white family in Memphis. Sandra Bullock plays the tasteful yet tough-as-nails Lady of the house whose efforts enabled Big Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) to become an exceptional football player and passable student. Adapted from Michael Lewis' book, the movie inspires despite average filmmaking that's incapable of probing deeply enough into the racial dynamics or unique mother-son relationship. Oher's high school football coach is straight out of Mayberry R.F.D. and the baddies in his old housing project belong in a Seventies cop show. (PG-13) FAIR DRAMA. Director - John Lee Hancock; Lead - Sandra Bullock; Running Time - 125 minutes. (Capsule review by John P. McCarthy)

PLANET 51. The artist formerly known as The Rock voices a vainglorious, square-jawed astronaut who crashes on a distant sphere and discovers a bustling, peaceful society of lizard-like green creatures living in a comfy community modeled after a 1950s American suburb. Sadly, the production design isn't the only element that harkens back to the fabulous Fifties. The toilet humor in Joe Stillman's screenplay feels ancient. And, since so many of the jokes involve the body's private orifices, let's hope they fly over the heads of most kids in the audience. Stargazers believe there is intelligent life out there. You just won't find much of it on this planet. (PG) BORING ANIMATED COMEDY ADVENTURE. Director - Jorge Blanco;  Lead - Dwayne Johnson; Running Time - 91 mins. (Capsule review by Sean O'Connell)

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