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gary_betz
Reviews
No Witness (2004)
Horrid, Horrid, Horrid!!!
I could not believe how sophomoric and infantile a film could be till I watched "No Witness". Did the producers of this film actually watch it prior to distribution??? This film will give even the worst films that Ed Wood ever produced a run for their money. My only thought is that perhaps this film was made by a sociopath in that he/she was under the sad arrogant delusion that they had produced something entertaining or a work of art. Hopefully the writer of this screenplay is out walking the picket lines, perpetually. My one hope is that those responsible for this film take the criticism seriously and in any subsequent efforts obtain objective opinions prior to releasing it.
The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman (2006)
Most Creative Script and Charismatic Characters on TV Today
Very creative script!!! I was hesitant to watch this show for the longest time, but am so glad I did. Jackie Woodman was the women I knew from the 70's back in Chicago when Chicago was in its inception of theatre brilliance but these creative albeit caustic women never emerged from its nadir. It is so very heartening that their spirit has survived in Jackie Woodman. Why the entire world has not embraced Laura Kightlinger, I haven't a clue. What a brilliant woman. And how very delightful is Nicholle Tom in this show!!! She has accomplished what few child television stars have been able to accomplish and that of becoming an accomplished mature actor. This show is very very refreshing. Watch a few episodes and you'll be enchanted as well.
The Good Shepherd (2006)
How could this film been so ignored by the Academy?
I did not see this film for the longest time as I usually shy away from actor/director films, but I saw it this morning and I was so very impressed!!! DeNiro deserved an Oscar for directing. This film was so great. I could not believe how well the nuances and understated style played out. Matt Damon was excellent, as was Jolie, their son Eddie Redmayne was great. It was amazing how the casting director got an actor as young Edward Jr. to resemble older Edward Jr. so strikingly. The entire cast of spy cronies was fantastic. Eric Roth writes like an angel. What an intriguing and intelligent script. Mr. Roth most definitely deserved a screenplay Oscar. Again, I was so impressed. See this film!!!
Vera Drake (2004)
A true work of film art!!!
A true work of film art!!! Excellent film!!! Would have been nominated for American Academy Award for Best Picture and won it, had the academy not been so afraid of the current Christian coalition right wing administration in the USA. Mike Leigh is a true genius. As always in Mr. Leigh's films there is terrific ensemble acting. Such truths in this film, that the ingenuous (or intolerant) view life in only terms of black and white instead of the reality of shades of gray. Mike Leigh makes films of such compassion. Imelda Staunton and Richard Graham both should have won Academy Awards. At least the Academy recognized Ms. Staunton and nominated her; however, they should have also nominated Mr. Graham for his brilliant understated performance. Great performances from the rest of the cast as well (i.e. Frank, Joyce, Reg, the lady constable). Have viewed all of Mr. Leigh's films and looking forward to his next!!!