Movie Recap: Nine Movies from 2009 that Deserve a Second Look

With the sweltering heat that's been sweeping through Kansas City these past few days, its been nearly impossible to spend much time doing anything outside. So instead, we must turn to indoor-activities for alternative entertainment. And what better way to spend a "rainy" day than to kick back with a few good movies?

But instead of running your wallet broke going to the theater multiple times, I urge you to go hunting for some of the older titles you've never seen. Save some money and take a trip to Redbox. There are plenty of movies out there that, although not big summer blockbusters, are still worth at the very least a rental or two.

On that note, I'd like to share with you my top picks for older rentals. These titles, which all released last year, may not have gotten the world's best ratings, but they're true entertainment value might just surprise you.

So, without further ado, here are a few of the titles that made my top 9 cut:

9. Drag me to Hell: Coined as a horror flick, this movie screamed ridiculous even in the previews. So then I must ask: why would you go into the experience expecting anything less? Eerie, yet slap-happy, this movie treads a line between parody and reality that few other films can successfully pull off. Except, this is Sam Raimi. Remember, the guy who directed The Evil Dead? In this latest film, you'll definitely see him return to his roots with a carefully mixed combination of laughs, guts, and chills. Featuring the talents of Allison Lohman (Beowolf) and Justin Long (He's just not that into you), this horror flick will definitely entertain, to at least one degree or another.

8. The Princess and the Frog: Ah, its truly been awhile since Disney took a break from its popular computer-animated films. While Up was definitely a good movie, it lacked some of the classic, storybook charm that this title has. With a large cast of new, lovable characters (voiced by Anika Noni Rose, Bruno Campos and others) a toe-tapping soundtrack and quaint southern animation, this film is definitely one the whole family will enjoy. Although it was overlooked next to the other films released last year, there's no doubt that this movie will transport you back to a different era that looks much like your childhood.

7. Obessed: We all knew Beyonce could kick butt on stage, but who knew she could whoop ass on the big screen as well? Including the acting talents of handsome Idris Elba (Prom Night) and the convincingly psychotic Ali Larter (Resident Evil), this movie will send sparks of creepy chills down your spine as you watch a completely wacked out office assistant stalk a married man. But, as one may have guessed, no one messes with Beyonce's man. Though slightly anti-climatic, the end of the movie will bring you a cat fight like you've never quite seen before. If you like suspense, this film is a sure-fire night of entertainment.

Discover more of these titles on my official page at Examiner.com.