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Reviews
In the Bedroom (2001)
Why is a film like this made?
Warning: Plot spoilers ahead.
I normally would not say this about a film, but I think that once a critic gave this film a positive review, every other critic followed the example, not wanting to give a film that deals with such a serious and depressing situation a bad review.
The first hour of the film is completely unoriginal and as soon as the abusive husband shows up at the bbq, it is clear that he is going to cause trouble for the son and his wife, most likely climaxing in a confrontation where the son is hurt...or worse. Some may say that a movie does not have to have an original story so long as it presents the story in an intelligent and entertaining manner, but is this really entertaining or is it simply shocking, trying to bring the audience to tears.
The film does improve after the son is murdered and it is interesting to see how the parents deal with their emotions and the legal system, but certain scenes just did not seem to help advance the story. When the father seems to have decided that sending his son's murderer away and, in sending him away, instilling fear in him, it seems that the film may end on an interesting and different note. However, no sooner has this idea been developed then the father resorts to murder, as most stories like this would.
I do have one question about the son's murder. Since we do not actually see it take place, how do we know the husband acted viciously. We are meant to assume that the son died innocently protecting his girlfriend and her children, but how can we know what really transpired. Perhaps this is the reason the father is so cold in the final scene of the film as he lies in bed considering the photo he had just seen in the husband's apartment of the couple during happier times. Is the father feeling guilty about the possibility that he has killed a man who was a victim of circumstance or is he simply feeling guilty because he has taken a life.
The film is interesting in showing how good people can do bad things (tag line of an earlier, better film "A Simple Plan). However, as it ended I could not help but think, "Why does a person make a film like this?" I am aware that life is not all sunshine and lollipops, but it is also not as depressing and grave as this film. Todd Field may win an Oscar for this film, but can he explain why he made it?
Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain (2001)
Best Film of 2001
Amelie represents what is wonderful in film. The story is entertaining and funny, including several brief anecdotes about the characters and what they think about as well as creative cinematography. The actress who plays Amelie is adorable without being irritating and her adventures are a perfect example of the excitement in reality that everyone wants to experience. Jeunet is a master of buildup who has proven that while the shortest distance between two points is a straight line, the lines which curve and bend make the trip much more interesting. He is able to make the audience believe that strange and extraordinary things can happen in reality. Sometimes it is the short, brief encounters that occur and result in positive relationships that remind us that life is beautiful.
If you enjoyed this film I would recommend "City of Lost Children" which, while a darker fantasy, has the same incredible build up to different events.
Mitchell (1975)
As Good As It Gets
M-M-M-Mitchell! Yeah KMac! What more could one want in an MST 3K. This is about as good as Joel got, and was the perfect ending to his career. But anyone who knows the series knows this. Here's to MST 3K, it'll be missed.
"Another Wednesday night at Mitchell's." "I like to finish off my beer drinking with another beer." "But eating!" "As a matter of fact I do own the road." "Did I tell you I'm Italian? Let me restate that." "Hey, hi Mitchell! Mind your business." "Hey you got some burgers or something in there."
"Oh man I'm so hungry, only had two t-bones, didn't get to finish my orange, my favorite frogurt place was closed. Hmm, that's a big buttery moon up there. The sidewalk kind of looks like ice cream, if you squint hard enough."
Mitchell!
JFK (1991)
Entertaining, but true?
When I first saw this movie, I was amazed. The case that Garrison presented seemed incredible and very well done. His argument seemed to leave no question as to whether there was a conspiracy in the assassination of JFK.
Then, I did some research. I read about Clay Shaw, Guy Banister, and Fletcher Prouty (Mr. X). A lot of what Stone presents as fact is completely false. The address on Oswald's pamphlets did lead to an address adjacent to Guy Banister's detective agency, but the entrance listed did not lead into Guy Banister's office, they are completely different offices, completely unconnected. Thus the connection between Banister and Oswald is not valid. Also, Kevin Bacon's character was not a real person but combination of three different personalities, and this character never had any evidence which linked Oswald, Ferrie, or Clay Shaw. These inaccuracies are pretty significant when we relate them to Garrison's case.
We all have heard about the Grassy Knoll, and the "puff of smoke" that was seen from it. Stone recreated this shot and we see the smoke rising from the rifle, the smoke that Lee Bowers claims to have seen from his train tower. However, automatic rifles do not give off smoke, that is fact. This is another significant discrepancy in the investigation.
I do not support the single bullet theory, I do not feel strongly about whether or not there was a conspiracy, I just want to know what happened. I really enjoyed JFK and I am glad to have seen it because it inspired me to do some research on the subject. I think it did raise some great points about Oswald such as the fact that he was not a great shot, and he also would have had better aim had he fired before Kennedy's car made the turn by the Depository. I think there are still a lot of questions to be answered. For example, the shots were taken over 8 to 9 seconds (Warren Commission). That's a lot of time. Why couldn't Kennedy have been saved in this time, before the fatal head shot?
Soultaker (1990)
Zeppelin's never wrong man!
I was shocked when I learned that this movie was coming out on DVD. I thought that the only films already out on video that would be converted to DVD would be ones which would sell. This was one of the better MSTs I've seen so unless they include the MST commentary on this DVD I don't see why anyone would want to buy it.
Still, it's a great MST 3K. The notorious "nude scene" is one of the funniest segments I've seen in a while. Here's to Mike and the crew for a great final season and one of the best series ever on television.
That '70s Show (1998)
A Good Show
No matter what people say, this is a good show: good acting, good filming, good story. I especially like the rotating camera shots in the basement with the "mysterious" smoke surrounding the teenagers. It's unfortunate that in recent episodes there have not been as many of these scenes.
The acting is solid, Masterson especially (I'll always remember him as the boyfriend in Face/Off who gets the crap beaten out of him). The adult roles are also well-done, Forman's father Red especially. He has some hilarious lines: "What are you going to write on your resume: dumbass?"
When Forman is asked if he is smoking pot: Kitty: There's clinics, therapy, groups..... Red: My foot kicking your ass.
Though this will never be as good as the show that comes before, "The Simpsons," it is still original, and I hope that this fall they return it the spot directly after the Simpsons. It's kind of nice to follow an animated show with a regular sitcom rather than "Futurama."
The Matrix (1999)
Despite its flaws.... yeah, I enjoyed it.
This movie was by no means perfect. The plot was not spectacular and the acting was by no means top-notch. It is nothing like "Dark City," the best movie made in the 90s (in my opinion at least) which has, as Roger Ebert says, "no bad scenes." Howard Hawks, the famous director who did Rio Bravo among other classics, once said when asked what makes a good film, "3 good scenes and no bad scenes." "Dark City" is a film which accomplishes this, there are no scenes which do not advance the plot, and yet we still see some incredible effects.
Anyhow, back to "The Matrix." There are plenty of scenes that are not necessary, one example being the fight scene at the metal detectors near the end of the film, but you know what, I don't care. This movie was visually incredible. I was not excited and pumped up after seeing it, I was tired, and not because it was a boring film. It is simply that the film wears out one's eyes, there is so much movement, so much eye-candy, and so much brightness. This movie won't win an Oscar, at least not the big ones, and it shouldn't. But it is still an extremely enjoyable and entertaining film and except for the cheesy love part at the end, could not have been done much better.
The brothers who directed "The Matrix" succeeded in creating a film that is what it tries to be: a visually stunning action film.
The Simpsons (1989)
So brilliant...what will I do when it ends?
This show has the most incredible writers and the most incredible cast. I was shocked when I looked through a friend's book and realized that Dan Castalanetta did not just do Homer, but seven or eight other characters. Most actors/actresses performs multiple characters; it's amazing how talented they all are.
Anyhow, as for the comedy, there is nothing like it. I have still yet to see any movie or television show like the Simpsons. It is incredibly original. In my mind there have been two types of comedy used in films and sitcoms. Intelligent comedy where you don't laugh hard, but chuckle at the scripts cleverness, and then there is hee-haw, down right pee-in-your pants humor. The Simpsons is the only show that combines the two, has jokes which are clever and smart, but hysterical.
When the Simpsons steal from movies, musicals, and other programs, they are not subtle about it, but this is what makes these spoofs so humorous. And as they steal from old movies and shows, this is where they hit an emotional note. The episode with "Sherry Bobbins," I laughed so hard I couldn't breathe. However, at the same time I was reminded of all the times I watched, "Mary Poppins" as a kid and how much I loved that movie. It was one of the few times television has really made me happy. Homer's finish of "Barney the Boozhound," with "Not 'til you're fifteen," was so perfect it was frightening. What show has spoofed other sitcoms and films as perfectly as the Simpsons?
However, remember the Simpsons do not spoof or copy anything. "Sherry Bobbins is an original creation like Ricky Rouse or Monald Muck."
A Simple Plan (1998)
A brilliant psychological thriller
Walking out of the theater, I knew I had seen a brilliant film in "A Simple Plan." However, for me, it was difficult to pinpoint what was so great about it. I soon realized that its simplicity was what made it so incredible. The plot is not particularly original or incredible, but it is intriguing. The question of morality that is brought into the film is what makes it brilliant. It is difficult to make an excellent film when the plot is so simple, but Raimi and his cast do an excellent job.
Billy Bob Thornton has been praised for his superior role in this film and I must agree with this opinion. Yet while his portrayal of the half-wit brother was excellent, it was the fact that while simpleminded, he was at the same time the most level headed of any of the actors in the film. He was the only one who truly understood the severity of the situation. One great example of his common sense is during the dinner conversation he has with his brother, Hank, about their father's death. He knows his father killed himself, and he thinks there is no doubt about it. The possibility never occurred to his younger, smarter brother, but when the issue is raised, it seems to be the only possibility. As Jacob says, "The man had driven past that way like 8,000 times a year. Drunk or not, one just doesn't make that mistake."
This is one example of the excellent dialogue between Jacob and Hank. Another is when Jacob asks Hank, "Do you ever feel evil? Sometimes I feel really evil." Other films with murders of "necessity," never raise the question of morality as this one does. It is not brilliant dialogue, but very powerful, and places this film in a higher stratosphere than other psychological thrillers.
Hell's Hinges (1916)
Catalyst for other Westerns
Though a silent picture, this movie had a huge influence on Westerns after it. It reveals several characters which exist in almost any good Western: the hooker with the heart of gold, the tough cowboy, the religious, weak dude, the petticoat brigade, and the redemptive woman. Though not a great Western, it was exceptional for its time and extremely revolutionary. It's definitely a must-see for anyone studying the Western.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Well Done
This was a good adaptation of Shakespeare's 'Taming of the Shrew,' far better than 'Romeo and Juliet' or 'Midsummer Night's Dream.' To be perfectly honest, I enjoyed the film more than I enjoyed reading the play. This may be an awful and controversial thing to say, but I thought the characters were developed well and the story was just much more entertaining. The male roles were done well, but the best part of the film was Julia Stiles as Kat. She was great and I think she is simply gorgeous. She makes the film what it is.
Zero Effect (1998)
Who The Hell Thought Of This?
This is the most original film I have ever seen. Jake Kasdan is an incredible director and even more an incredible mind. The methods of the "greatest private investigator in the world" is greatest, coolest idea for a film. I have no idea how he came up with this, but I am glad he did. Pullman is excellent as Daryl Zero and his relationship with Gloria Sullivan is very well done. Ben Stiller, who I have mixed opinions about, is excellent in his role as Zero's representative, Steve Arlo. I don't know how anyone could not like this film. It's brilliantly done and everyone should see it.
GATTACA (1997)
There's Not Much To Dislike
I saw this film when it was out on video, and I must say that I am sorry I did. I wish I had seen this one in the theaters. The plot is awesome, extremely original and well-constructed. The acting is superb, the narration is an excellent addition, and the scene transition is smooth. There is not anything particular in the film that I loved, it just flowed and came together wonderfully. As a whole this is excellent, one of the greatest sci-fi films I've seen in a while. Like "Dark City" you are left with a sense of fulfillment. Everything ends right and it makes you feel good. What else could one want in a film?
The Ox-Bow Incident (1942)
Original and Underrated
This film is unlike most Westerns and that is what makes it great. It does an excellent job of presenting the common Westerner as an animal, a man who loves nothing more than seeing another man die. The mere possibility that the three men who are hung are guilty is more than enough reason for these men to get what they want: a hanging. Henry Fonda, whose role at times seems overshadowed by the conflict of the film, is his usual brilliant self and makes the film even better. This film is normally overlooked when one studies the "classic" Western, but its originality makes it unlike most. There is no real redemptive woman or a specific villain, the entire town is the villain. If you are a fan of Westerns, this is a must see
Jesse James (1939)
Good...Not Great
Though this is not one of my favorite Westerns, it is still quite good on several levels. It is excellent in presenting how the outlaw is created and what drives an outlaw to break the law. The filming is also excellent, I will never forget the shot of Jesse crawling along the top of the train at night. The acting is good, Henry Fonda is excellent as usual and Tyrone Power does a good job as Jesse.
Though I thought the film was well done it just didn't hit an emotional note with me as other Westerns such as "The Wild Bunch" and "Unforgiven" did. This is not always necessary for a Western since some lacked this same quality, but still shined (Rio Bravo). However, for the tone of this film, I think emotional impact was necessary. Still, it is solid Western and is worth seeing
Election (1999)
Funny, Creative, but just not quite there
I saw this film after hearing for a few weeks that it was "the funniest comedy of the year" that it was "dark, humorous, and brilliant." I must admit it was entertaining, the freeze shots were a nice touch, and Reese Witherspoon was excellent as usual. My favorite part of the film was the brother who also ran for president, his witty, unenthusiastic tales were highlights of the film. The movie is funny, but not p**s-in-your pants funny. It is more along the lines of "Bottle Rocket," but just not quite at that film's level. "Election" is being referred to as "Rushmore"'s cousin. Not quite. "Rushmore," done by Wes Anderson, who also did "Bottle Rocket," is head and heels above "Election." It is funnier, more clever, and more original. "Election" may be decent, but it is just not quite to the level of other clever comedies like "Rushmore."
American History X (1998)
Powerful
I saw this with two friends one night this spring and I can say that I have not been the same since. The rest of that night I felt confused and unsure of what I had just seen. It is truly a remarkable and powerful film, and as disturbing as any I have seen. Edward Norton is incredible both as a neo-Nazi and when he has reformed. The smile he gives his brother after he Glasgow-kissed one of the men who attempted to steal his car is the most frightening shot I have ever seen on film. The film can be summed up in three words: Disturbing, enlightening, brilliant
The Game (1997)
Quality film which will leave you wondering..
Though I'm not a huge fan of Michael Douglas, he is quite good in this film as is Sean Penn in his supporting role. This movie is a true "mind-f**k," but it is extremely well-done. The acting and the filming are brilliant and it is definitely worth seeing
Bulworth (1998)
People might appreciate it more if they understood it
The first two times I saw this movie, I thought it was an entertaining, intelligent film, but the ending eluded me. When it came out on video I rented it and finally understood what message Beatty was trying to send. The issue of the homeless man saying "you got to be a spirit not a ghost," was slightly confusing, but I believe it means that Bulworth as a Senator must be like the black politician and not the white one. Black politicians during this century have had a huge impact on our country. Those such as Martin Luther King have had impacts on us even after their deaths. They act as "spirits" not "ghosts." White politicians this century have simply died, and become "ghosts," their memories exist only on paper. Bulworth had a huge impact on the people, he was what resulted in a politician who decides for an end to bull***t and lying. In that way he was revolutionary, and in that way he was like the black politician. The whole movie is complicated and I think the typical viewer might not like it because it is different to understand. However, I think more people understood they would see that it is very well done.
Beautiful Girls (1996)
Almost Perfect
This is one of my all-time favorites. Some may call it cheesy, but I thought it was great, full of heart, funny, tense, just great. It is one of those films that ends with you feeling good and that's an attribute of a good film. The dialogue is good, the humor is subtle, but solid, and the acting is good. I first saw it when I was 15 or 16 and Natalie Portman was 14. I just fell in love with her the first time I saw this. She was great, beautiful, funny, I just loved her. Anyhow, anyone who's got a heart should see this one, it'll make you feel good.
Se7en (1995)
Incredible and Disturbing
David Fincher is one of my favorite directors and this film was simply brilliant. Some may think it disgusting and it was. It was far more disturbing than "Silence of the Lambs" which barely made me flinch. Along with "The Game" this is one of the truly great "Mind-F***s" of film history. Freeman and Pitt are excellent, but what really made this film for me was Kevin Spacey who showed that he was just warming up in "The Usual Suspects." His statement and the mere possibility that what he did could be looked at as just action is one of the most incredible and frightening thoughts. This film will always make me think. This is truly a brilliant film and if you can stomach it, you will be amazed
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Well done, but unoriginal
Though I really enjoyed this movie, never would I agree that it is best film ever. It's powerful and full of heart, but it lacks one thing which is extremely important in a good film: originality. Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman were excellent in this film but their relationship is much like the relationship between Clint Eastwood and the librarian in "Escape From Alcatraz." The involvement of the library, the old coon who dies (Doc), the brut who is a threat (Wolf), the hole, the oppressive warden, and the escape in general all come from "Escape From Alcatraz." Though "Escape From Alcatraz" is not as powerful and emotional as "The Shawshank Redemption," it is a brilliantly done film and has the originality which "Shawshank" lacks. Though I do not want to belittle those who worship "Shawshank," I would suggest that anyone who has seen it should rent "Escape From Alcatraz." Then you may think twice before calling "Shawshank" the greatest film ever.
Unforgiven (1992)
Original Western
Many people may say that this film is far from original as a Western, but it is the only film to tackle the issue of what it takes to kill a man. Other Westerns such as Shane and Culpepper Cattle Company hint at it, but Unforgiven uses it as the basis of the film. Eastwood uses this issue brilliantly
The dialogue between him and the Scofield kid is possibly the greatest dialogue in any Western.
I would love to see a prequel to this film be made in the near future. To see William Munny before he was tamed, which we get a glimpse of at the end, would be something.
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
The Best the 4
This is the best Star Wars film made because it is the only which covers the emotional side which film should. "Star Wars" and "The Return of the Jedi" were well done and somewhat emotional, but this film has far better character development. Harrison Ford dominates this film and it is his "Han Solo" which makes it what it is. His humor, his loyalty to Luke, and the relationships which are developed with Leia, Lando, and Chewbacca are superb. His descent into carbonite is the only point in any of the four films, with the exception of the death of a major character, when I feel the sense of loss. We are meant to feel loss only when Jedi die but Solo's freezing is the most powerful moment of all three films. This is truly the greatest film of the greatest trilogy ever
The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
As Good As Westerns Get
Eastwood's masterpiece works on many levels. It covers all symbols and necessary parts which make a Western. Josey is as bad-ass as Western gunfighters become. The scene in the trading post with gun trick: OH MY GOD!!! As a Western it is brilliantly done, but what put it over the top is the comment Eastwood makes on the South during the post-civil war period, as well as on the Vietnam war (It was made during the aftermath of Vietnam). "I guess we all died a little in that damn war," is as powerful a statement as you will find in any film concerning the people of the United States. When the film ends and Josey rides off on his horse, never did I feel before that more right had been done, that what was wrong was finally right. I've seen this film ten times in the past month, but I never grow tired of it. It is as good as Westerns get.