The Rum Diary

Set in 1960, a writer/journalist (Johnny Depp) takes a new job with a local newspaper and becomes involved with a shady businessman's (Aaron Eckhart) land development scheme. This quirky dramedy is beautifully shot in Puerto Rico. While the features Carnival, the sexy Amber Heard, some cock fighting, a voodoo spell, fire-breathing acts, and some crazy car scenes, the plot doesn't really go anywhere. The movie mostly follows this trio of odd characters, but strangely enough, Depp's portrayal seems to be the more normal of the bunch. Most may feel it's a waste of time watching these actors getting wasted on screen.

Alien gives it 1½ "some rum dumb days" stars out of 4.