Why a "9" for a made-for-TV movie!? Because I try to grade movies based on what they are trying to accomplish. No, "Saving Private Ryan," this ain't, but it's not trying to be. Other parents may echo my frustation with how >incredibly< difficult it is to find a solid, watchable kids film. The "watchable" means that the writing is adequate and the actors aren't so weak that they're disruptive to adult viewers. The "kids film" means that there aren't scenes 1) that terrify little kids and/or kill off a parent (I'm lookin at you Nemo, Tarzan, Lion King, Cindarella, Frozen, on and on) or 2) have hard PG content. This movie provides a rare reminder that a movie can be solid even though it's not high budget or contains too much foul language or sex content for the under-tween kids.

One of the best Disney movies I've ever seen, I give Minutemen a 9.3. The special effects were fair, and the plot gets two thumbs up. It shows different cliques, high school dilemmas, and plenty of hot guys. Luke B. was smart and sweet and Jason D. was a determined dreamer, and got along great and really clicked. I didn't much enjoy the kiss that 18 year old Kara C. (Jeanette) and Luke B. (Charlie) shared, for I'm a huge Luke Benward fan. I felt the pain of having an annoying sister and being an outcast, and could really relate to the troubles of teens. This movie has laughs, love, and real life. All of the things you need for a great flick to watch with friends and family. This movie won my heart and the hearts of many others.

OK, first of all, I think all DCOMs are worth giving a chance. Except for the High School Musical movies, those actually sucked. To me, a lot of DCOMs have a level of maturity and/or seriousness in them. This is why they appeal to me so much, and I'm a 21-year-old guy. Anyway, Minutemen is about three teenagers who build a time machine together, and decide to use it to save their classmates from embarrassing moments. Yeah, I know that may sound corny to older audiences, but the boys will soon learn that even their heroic actions could lead to disastrous consequences. Jason Dolley, who played the lead character Virgil, was pretty good for his first starring DCOM role. I liked the possible messages that the movie tries to deliver, like everything happens for a reason. Or maybe the most worst moment in your life turns out to be the best thing to ever happen to you. In my opinion, DCOMs manage to get themes like this across without seeming corny at all. In conclusion, another excellent DCOM, great for all ages.

The main characters in the cast were totally adorable, but it was kind of annoying when typical Disney made all the adults into stupid nut-cases who treat kids terribly. The plot was also fairly good, kids going back in time to save the geeks from embarrassment, but I think they got a little carried away towards the end with the black whole. When Charlie (the younger super-genius friend) ran into the FBI and suddenly exclaimed "four hours until the end of the world" I couldn't help but laugh, as it was just far too over-the-top. Overall the point of the movie was pretty cute though, accepting your past, learning popularity isn't everything, and loving your friends for who they are.