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Beaches (1988)
Un-generic.
Before I saw "Beaches" (1988), I assumed it would be one of those formulaic B-grade movies that I'd get tired of halfway through. Not that I don't appreciate sentimental flicks, it's frustrating when the same themes are constantly explored. Fortunately, "Beaches" offered more than just a simple tale of friendship. It's a moving depiction of the good and the not-so-good, and as cliché as it may sound, it offers a degree of satisfaction in showing how truly blessed people are to have a lifelong friend.
Superstar entertainer, CC Bloom, is a rags-to-riches example drawn along the lines of Bette Midler's own career, which may be one of the reasons why she was able to play the part so convincingly. Opposite CC is her best friend Hillary Essex (Barbara Hershey), a wealthy socialite whose left-wing idealism drives her in becoming a lawyer. Obviously both leads - Hillary in particular - are characterised to deliver strong messages of female empowerment. Although their background and personalities differ, the innocence of childhood allows them to develop a friendship that will last a lifetime.
As per formula, the storyline is simple, but the genius of the movie is in the intricate details. It offers an insightful account of how the transition into adulthood comes with challenges that tests relationships. It doesn't pretend there are no obstacles and anything possible that threatens the friendship is explored. Yet by overcoming these obstacles, "Beaches" demonstrates that no matter the situation, there will always remain the possibility for problems to be resolved. Most stories need a hero or two and the sheer willingness of CC and Hillary to make their friendship work - rather than take things for granted - qualifies both for the title.
To maximise the movie's experience, I suggest thorough preparations done beforehand. Make sure your chores are completed and the night's a winter's one. Set up a fireplace, grab a blanket, have some choc-chip cookies and a glass of milk ready on the table, and - most importantly - have a box of tissues nearby. Sounds like a lot of work? Trust me, "Beaches" is worth every minute of it.
Chicken (2001)
Gently Macho
Although I felt "Chicken" was a little abrupt, it did a great job in arousing a myriad of emotions.
The setting takes place on a rural train-track. Two friends re-affirm their macho identity by engaging in a test which only a "real man" can stomach. "Mick" is the brash, confident fellow, calling the shots and dictating what's needed to separate a "man" from a "momma's boy". "Kev", on the other hand, is a little less sure of himself, yet is determined to prove his manliness by subjecting himself - or, rather, his hand - to a game of "chicken". It's a dangerous measure used as a test of guts and subsequent glory. For those who may not be familiar, the game involves a pocket knife, a hand and plenty of good luck. What follows is an affirmation of a relationship that both boys share but, for reasons unknown, have never been openly expressed.
Overall, I felt that the subject matter and the depth involved could've benefited from a longer duration. Whether it was due to budgetary or time constraints, it was a shame that such a wonderful portrayal of boys and their relationship with one another wasn't explored any further. The subtleties and the open-ended freedom afforded for the viewers are certainly appreciated. However, this could also end-up confusing people, as there are too many ambiguities and not enough material in the film to help clarify them.
A brilliant depiction ... just a little flawed.
Sai yau gei: Yut gwong bou haap (1995)
A Stephen Chow movie with a drop of sentimentality.
WARNING: Spoilers within.
Like many of Stephen Chow's movies, "A Chinese Odyssey" generates an even mix between humor, martial arts and Chinese-style special effects. Lightly based on a classic Chinese mythology, it centers around the "journey" that a powerful yet misguided monkey 'king' (Chow) is forced to choose between - a life of complex emotions or abandoning it all to accompany the Longevity Monk's (Kar-Ying Law) journey towards the West.
The movie is divided into two parts: the first serves as a background on "Joker's" life as a human bandit; the second highlights his struggle and unravels some interesting secrets that reveals a long forgotten past. Throughout his journey, Joker encounters magic spells and mythical creatures while finding a way to cram in Chow's trademark slapstick humour.
One element that sets "A Chinese Odyssey" apart from Chow's standard fare, though, is its willingness to showcase raw emotions. Although his satirical humor in widely appreciated, few of Chow's films are known to put aside screen time which depicts its characters as emotionally relatable to.
Thankfully, "A Chinese Odyssey" serves as something of an anti-Chow project. It allows its viewers to sympathise with Joker's ordeal. It's a step away from the accident-prone heroes who are there for the single purpose of enticing a few chuckles. Demonstrating his humanity throughout the film, Joker nonetheless manages to deliver without sacrificing the fanfare that made Chow a household name.
Too often we're offered films which veer towards one extreme. They're either focused entirely on comedy or riddled with so much cheese, they appear lame instead of the tear-jerker promised. Not so "A Chinese Odyssey." It delivers with consistency and therefore appeals to fans of different genres.