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Reviews
The Man Who Wasn't There (2001)
parts of screenplay screwed up, but you need to see it
This film has a great noir taste that really sucks you in, thanks to a blistering performance by Billy Bob, with fine performances by the up and coming Scarlett Johansson, and Tony Shalhoub as Freddy "I don't capitulate, I litigate" Riedenschneider.
However, this will not go down with the best of the Coen flicks, as the screenplay has problems, especially the final scenes are just a total screw up, some weird UFO crap and a stupid ending. The Coen's often seem at a loss on how to end a film, the end of Raising Arizona is stupid, as was this film, yet in Fargo, they seemed to get everything right, even the ending, perhaps that is why it is their highest rated film.
So, if you like a character study that is memorable, although not in the league with William Macy's performance in Fargo, and if you liked the cinematography of "Brother, where art thou", then you will enjoy this, but don't expect the complete package like Fargo or Arizona or even Brother. Just rent it for the fine effort from Billy Bob a la "Slingblade" and for the cool noir feel, and try not to get too disgusted with the final scenes after the car rolls. A shame, since a slight rewrite of the end portions of the screenplay and this could have been a top film.
Still a worthy rental for a Saturday night curled up with the big screen and a dark ale.
Going Berserk (1983)
john candy's 2nd best film
yeah, it's a bit of a silly film, so if you are looking for an oscar performance, forget this one......but, if you love John Candy's humor, this is a must-see. We lost John Candy before he made enough of his great brand of comedy, and he is only better in one movie: Planes, Trains, & Automobiles (with Steve Martin). Excellent supporting performance by Eugene Levy, perhaps his best work ever as the hot-headed Sal DiPasquale. Also good acting by Richard Libertini, Alley Mills & Pat Hingle. You must see this obscure and out-of-print film if you are a John Candy or Eugene Levy fan.