Darth Stujitzu's Reviews

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Brave

The Brave is Johnny Depp's 1997 directorial debut, starring Johnny Depp and Marlon Brando in a small cameo role.

The story follows Raphael(Depp) and his impoverished young family living in squalor in Morgantown, a sort of American Indian trailer park. Raphael is determined to get his family out of this life and provide a new home for them, the only problem is money and his lack of a job because of his criminal record.
Raphael meets McCarthy(Brando), the director of snuff movies, he offers Raphael $30.000 to be the star of his next movie. Raphael accepts, he is given $5000 up front and embarks on the last week of his life, this ultimately becomes a journey of discovery for Raphael, he rediscovers his love for his children and his wife. Realising that he is worth more to his family alive than dead he tries unsuccessfully to return the money.
This is a very powerfull debut by Depp, and although the subject matter is rather bleak, there are genuine moments of hope in this film.
This film will not be for everyone, but fans of Depp should check it out, as both his and Brando's performances are very strong. IMO Depp could easily slip behind the camera more, the film is a slow burn, but his direction is spot on, especially dealing with such a morose subject matter.

To summise, this is a very worthwhile directorial debut, although heart-breaking, Depp doesn't allow the film to go over sentimental and weepy.This is a very brave choice for his debut, but being a fan of his acting, it didn't surprise me that he made this choice, conventianal is never a word that could be attached to Depp's career to date. Not a feel good movie if you have plans for after viewing, but I highly recommend this movie. Difficult to ever be in the right mood for something like this, but if you can handle the subject material, there is very little violence, you will be rewarded with an outstanding piece of acting and directing.

Rating 4/5

[Strummer521]

Sounds good Stu. Thanks for the review. :) Write more soon.

[Strummer521]

Anyone ever seen a snuff film, incidentally?

I have never heard of anyone who has seen one. Honestly I'm not sure real ones exist. Meanwhile if that is a topic in fiction that interests you, you can read about it in Bentley Little's short story
"The Show" from his book The Collection. He truly is a master of the macabre as Stephen King called him. At least he is with his short stories. I read one of his novels and it lacked the originality and style of his short stories but def. check those out.

[SamsoniteDelilah]

The Brave

The Brave is Johnny Depp's 1997 directorial debut, starring Johnny Depp and Marlon Brando in a small cameo role.

The story follows Raphael(Depp) and his impoverished young family living in squalor in Morgantown, a sort of American Indian trailer park. Raphael is determined to get his family out of this life and provide a new home for them, the only problem is money and his lack of a job because of his criminal record.
Raphael meets McCarthy(Brando), the director of snuff movies, he offers Raphael $30.000 to be the star of his next movie. Raphael accepts, he is given $5000 up front and embarks on the last week of his life, this ultimately becomes a journey of discovery for Raphael, he rediscovers his love for his children and his wife. Realising that he is worth more to his family alive than dead he tries unsuccessfully to return the money.
This is a very powerfull debut by Depp, and although the subject matter is rather bleak, there are genuine moments of hope in this film.
This film will not be for everyone, but fans of Depp should check it out, as both his and Brando's performances are very strong. IMO Depp could easily slip behind the camera more, the film is a slow burn, but his direction is spot on, especially dealing with such a morose subject matter.

To summise, this is a very worthwhile directorial debut, although heart-breaking, Depp doesn't allow the film to go over sentimental and weepy.This is a very brave choice for his debut, but being a fan of his acting, it didn't surprise me that he made this choice, conventianal is never a word that could be attached to Depp's career to date. Not a feel good movie if you have plans for after viewing, but I highly recommend this movie. Difficult to ever be in the right mood for something like this, but if you can handle the subject material, there is very little violence, you will be rewarded with an outstanding piece of acting and directing.
If you were to... say... rate this film: like... out of a possible 5 stars.... What might you rate it?

[Darth Stujitzu]

If you were to... say... rate this film: like... out of a possible 5 stars.... What might you rate it?


Sorry, I'll edit my review.
For me this is a 4/5 movie, but I really like Depp as an actor, maybe I'm slightly biased.

[SamsoniteDelilah]

I don't know many people who aren't biased toward liking Johnny Depp.
He's an actor's actor, and good looking, and a cool guy by all accounts. A win-win-win.

[Darth Stujitzu]

I don't know many people who aren't biased toward liking Johnny Depp.
He's an actor's actor, and good looking, and a cool guy by all accounts. A win-win-win.


Yeah, but I don't fancy him!!!
Well alright just a little! :randy:
Well, if you're gonna get kisses from Salma Hayek....
Cold shower time again...I'll end up like a prune if you keep this up C!!! :eek:

[SamsoniteDelilah]

http://www.webdesignforums.net/images/smilies/ichat/angel.gif I didn't do anything!

[Darth Stujitzu]

http://www.webdesignforums.net/images/smilies/ichat/angel.gif I didn't do anything!



Always with the pleading innocence......

[Darth Stujitzu]

So, after my anti France/Chirac rant the other day, I thought I'd make amends by doing reviews on my fave French films, well 5 at least.

La Haine (Hate) 1995 cirected by Mathieu Kassovitz


The setting of this film is the projects on the outskirts of Paris, where during the early 90's against a backdrop of increasing racial tension the French police were seen to be heavyhanded in their treatment of certain teenagers living in the projects.

The film revolves around 3 friends who get by selling dope and getting involved in petty crime. When a teenager from the projects is almost beaten to death by local police, the other teenagers on the projects react by turning their project into a war zone against the over-bearing represive police force. During sporadic fighting in the project, a plain clothes cop looses his gun, a 44 Smith and Wesson.
Found by the 3 friends, they hatch a plan of revenge against the police , killing the policeman by his own gun as a way to express their rage at how they are being treated.

This is a gritty, hard hitting piece of french cinema, and acurately reflects the mood of disgruntled youths living in poverty in the notorious projects of Paris. The central performances by Vincent Cassell, Hubert Kounde and Said Taghmaoui are all excellent and very believeable.
This is a tragic modern day tale, it comes across almost like a documentary. Kassovitz's direction adds an almost claustrophobic feel to the movie
Rating 4.5/5


Rififi 1955 cirected by Jules Dassin.

Jules Dassin's classic heist movie is a real jem from the Golden days of French New Wave cinema.
Jules Dassin was a blacklisted American director who moved to Paris to film his daring and original heist movie. Rififi is the template from which most modern day heist movies are made.
The story revolves around 4 ex cons determined to hit the big time with one last heist. As usual, the best laid plans go wrong, with devastating effects for the 4 main protagonists.
Dassin's direction is flawless, and the cinematography is excellent as well. With strong performances from the cast, you are left with a taught, dark, brutal heist movie, that set the standard for all to follow.

Rating 4/5

Brotherhood of the Wolf 2001 directed by Christophe Gans



Set in the 18th century, Gans' film is not too disimilar to " Sleepy Hollow" , both deal with cases of strange murders with a somewhat supernatural feel to them.
Fronsac(Le Bihan) and his native american man-servant Mani(Dacascos) are sent by the king to investigate the killing of hundreds by a mysterious beast in the French countryside. They are met with hostility at every turn, especially by the one armed Morangias(Cassel). Through perserverance they eventually discover the secretative Brotherhood of the Wolf, who appear to be heavily involved in the killings, but all is not as it seems.
A fast paced action/adventure film, that pushes all the right buttons, indeed the production is as good as many Hollywood equivalents.

The ever watchable Cassell gives a strong performance as too does American Dacascos better known for his martial art films in the States. The cherry on top IMO is Monica Bellucci(Cassel's wife), I would watch her make toast, absolutely one of the world's most beautiful women!

Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Amelie 2001 directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet

A truly mesmorising film by one of France's best directors. Amelie is a tale of fancy, told by the use of superb special effects and cinematography.
It's a modern day fairytale that involves Amelie using her charm and wit to help people become happier with their lives.
Its simplistic charm and almost childlike innocence is a breath of fresh air for all those bored of dull and uninvolving films, this is a real feel-good movie.

For those who haven't discovered Jean-Pierre Jeunet, I'd recommend Amelie as a good starting place, before trying Delicatessen and City of Lost Children.
His unique visual style can be an aquired taste, but ultimately he is one of the most inventive and creative directors to come out of France in along time.

Rating 4/5

La Femme Nikita 1990 directed by Luc Besson

The original film that spawned an American remake with Bridget Fonda, and the subsequent tv show.
Nikita is a convicted fellon, due to face the death sentance for her part on a fatal drug store robbery, she is given a second chance and becomes the highly trained and skilled government assassin.
Luc Besson's film set the platform for Nikita, Alias, Dark Angel and so many other series where the main lead character is a kick-ass femme fatale. Although not my favourite Besson film, it still stands as a good film some 15 years later, and Anne Parillaud is still the original and best. There is a real fallability in her performance that makes her transition all the more believeable, and in a way Besson was responsible for giving french cinema a much needed jolt.

Rating 3.5/5

My favourite Besson movie is The Big Blue from 1998, the visualy stunning film about 2 freedivers, their friendship and their desire to constantly push each other to the brink of death in the name of sport.

[EmuGOD]

only seen 2 french movies and I loved both of them

Amelie and City of Lost Children both shown to be by my french teacher.

[Tacitus]

Good choices DS, my list would include Nikita too. :)

[Pyro Tramp]

Nice choices dude. Mine would be much the same, though i feel Amelie is somewhat over rated, perhaps another Jeunet film to take it's place. Also what about Bunel or Goddard, they both have some pretty darn good flicks between them.

[Shady_Character]

I'd like to give a nod to 'L'homme du train' (released in the US as Man on the train). I really LOVED that one. I missed Jean Rochefort!

[nebbit]

Thanks Darth, I have added the 3 I haven't seen, to my loooooong list of to watch. :D

[IDigCereal]

Out of all the films on your list I've only seen Brotherhood of the Wolf (I need to see Amelie... why have I waited so long?), but the rest sound great. Have you seen The 400 Blows? That's easily my favorite French film. If not, check it out. I got it on a blind buy from quite a bit more than I usually pay, and it was well worth it.

[Darth Stujitzu]

So, I'm slowly working my way up the threads and posts ladder of this great Forum, now be prepared to be amazed and filled with wonder at my Asian movies reviews!!!( you can substitute amazed and wonder for bored and disbelief if it tickles your fancy!)

Sympathy for Mr.Vengeance 2002 Directed by Chan Wook Park


This is perhaps the hardest movie to sum up as it has little sub genres everywhere, but ultimately its a tale of revenge.

The story revolves around a deaf/mute trying to find a kidney for his ill sister, his early good intentions are foiled when he is told that he isn't in the same blood group as his sister and therefore not a suitable donor. Desperate, Ryu turns to the black market for help, he does a deal that sees him loose his own kidney which will be traded for a suitable kidney for his sister. Upon awakening after the operation, he learns that he has been double crossed and is back at square one. His next plan involves kidnapping his wealthy boss' daughter for ransom, so that can then buy a suitable kidney.

I won't give anymore away, but what I will say straight from the start, is don't watch this film if you are in any way squeamish, as it spirals towards a graphic and grotesque final act. I can watch horror movies all night long, but the violence in this film is a lot more realistic and gorry, and personally I found it to be more disturbing and shocking than his follow up movie " Oldboy ".
A strange mish-mash of a film, sometimes bizzare, often shocking I don't feel compulsed to watch it again, and I'm not too sure who this film is aimed at, don't know if I could recommend this, I will be intrested to see other's feedback.

Rating 2/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Last Life in the Universe 2003 Directed by Prabda Yoon

Yoon's film starts off with the possible suicide of Kenji, a Japanese librarian living in Bangkok. Slowly we are drawn into Kenji's everyday life and his compulsive disorder, from the start we know he is a loner and fed up with life.
Kenji's brother turns up unannounced, and is subsequently executed in front of him by one of his fellow Yakuza, Kenji kills the assailant and runs off with a friendly girl called Noi to her home in the countryside. A romance slowly starts to develope between the polar opposites, Noi has just lost her sister in a hit and run which Kenji witnessed, the only obsticales in their way are the local police looking for Kenji and Noi's abusive boyfriend.

This is a real slow burn of a movie, and for me it dragged on far too long. I didn't find the characters involving enough, and my mind often wandered during many slow scenes where not much happens other than some stylish cinematography.
Not a great movie, and I was dissapointed as I had read many good reviews, and was actually recommended this by my local Blockbuster.

Rating a very slow 2/5

[Golgot]

Not a great movie, and I was dissapointed as I had read many good reviews, and was actually recommended this by my local Blockbuster.

And you took that as a decent recommendation? ;) (altho i've gotta admit i was blown away to notice it on their shelves when i browsed recently). A mate of mine loved it, but he's a cynical yet '60s/'70s kind of soul. I'm definitely gonna check it out tho - i'll let you know what i think. (reckon this and 3-Iron sound like a treat - altho i've read disappointed reviews like yours of both too)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Oldboy 2003 Directed by Chan Wook Park


Describing this film in one word would be easy, it's a stright out tale of " Revenge ".
Oh Dae-Su seems an average drunken business man, until one night he is kidnapped and held in the same room for fifteen years. Upon his release he finds himself armed with a mobile phone from which he must follow clues to find why he was held captive and by whom.
Enlisting the help of a friendly waitress Mi-do, the two set off in search of missing clues as to his captives where abouts and motives.

This is a taught thriller, and although it drags a little in the middle, I was completely absorbed in the story and its ultimate finale. There is graphic violence, and those of a squeamish disorder probably should give it a miss, especially for the squid scene. I did get the twist early on, but I was looking for it, so perhaps keeping an open mind on this film will serve you better for the surprise ending.
A thoroughly enjoyable revenge movie that ticks all the right boxes.

Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter...and Spring 2003 Directed by Ki-duk Kim


Probably one of the most beautifully shot movies I have ever seen.

Set in the middle of an isolated lake, the film tells the story of a young monk and his Master going about their daily lives and teechings. Seasons and years pass, untill the young monk becomes a man, and problems arise when a sick girl comes to stay with them.
The young monk's sexual awakening leads him to turn his back on his master and elope with the girl. Unsuited to life in the outside world, the young monk commits an unforgiveable sin, and susequently returns to seek out spiritual enlightenment.

This movie moves at a snail's pace at certain moments, but the scenery and cinematograpy are so beautiful, that you feel like you're studying a painting in a museum. I've never seen such an ideal and tranquil setting for a film, for those intrested in cinematography this is a must see film.

Rating 4/5

[Tacitus]

Crikey! I look forward to your Isle Of Man review thread some time in August.

Seriously though, do you really think Oldboy is twice as good as SFMV?

[Darth Stujitzu]

Crikey! I look forward to your Isle Of Man review thread some time in August.

Seriously though, do you really think Oldboy is twice as good as SFMV?



Yeah, I just thought Oldboy looked better, and the story was less disjointed. I think Park is improving as a director, but on the whole, I didn't really like SFMV that much.
Oldboy to me was more of a westernized thriller, so it comes as no surprise to see rumours of a Hollywood remake with Nic Cage playing the lead character. I saw Oldboy first, so this might be why I liked it more, but SFMV was a tad too tragic and gorry for me, I'm no big girl's blouse, but I found the violence a little too realistic and very disturbing.
I guess the difference between the two films is that SFMV is phyisically harming, while Oldboy is more about mental harm, which can have far longer and more devastating effects.


P.S. September for the Isle of Man thread, waiting on the new documentary about fishing to come out!!! :laugh:

[Tacitus]

Yeah, I just thought Oldboy looked better, and the story was less disjointed. I think Park is improving as a director, but on the whole, I didn't really like SFMV that much.
Oldboy to me was more of a westernized thriller, so it comes as no surprise to see rumours of a Hollywood remake with Nic Cage playing the lead character. I saw Oldboy first, so this might be why I liked it more, but SFMV was a tad too tragic and gorry for me, I'm no big girl's blouse, but I found the violence a little too realistic and very disturbing.
I guess the difference between the two films is that SFMV is phyisically harming, while Oldboy is more about mental harm, which can have far longer and more devastating effects.


P.S. September for the Isle of Man thread, waiting on the new documentary about fishing to come out!!! :laugh:

Thanks for that. ;)

To be honest, I wouldn't put either film anywhere near my list of favourites. I liked Oldboy on first viewing, more polished than Vengeance certainly. I've found more in the earlier film from repeated viewing though - Oldboy, for me, set up the finale nicely but seemed to disappear up it's own lens during the final third. Sympathy For Mr Vengeance, though less flamboyant, was more even (not in terms of narrative, more in texture and tone) and, given the choice, I'd pick it over it's trendier cousin every time. That said, I'd give both 3/5.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Thanks for that. ;)

To be honest, I wouldn't put either film anywhere near my list of favourites. I liked Oldboy on first viewing, more polished than Vengeance certainly. I've found more in the earlier film from repeated viewing though - Oldboy, for me, set up the finale nicely but seemed to disappear up it's own lens during the final third. Sympathy For Mr Vengeance, though less flamboyant, was more even (not in terms of narrative, more in texture and tone) and, given the choice, I'd pick it over it's trendier cousin every time. That said, I'd give both 3/5.


No, none of the films so far are my favourite asian films, but they're probably the most recently viewed, I will get round to doing more reviews on this thread soon, but I'm updating my Scottish thread at the moment, and I am thinking about doing a British Independant film thread.
Don't worry, I'll soon run out of steam, but as I'm a relative newbie, and I've been looking for decent conversation about movies for ages, I'll strike whilst I still have the enthusiasmn and energy!!!

[Tacitus]

Hey, just when you think you've run out of steam, have a gallon of Red Bull. Keep 'em coming. :)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Sonatine 1993 directed by Takeshi Kitano


The multi talented director/actor and commedian " Beat " Takeshi Kitano's superb take on the mob movie.

Takeshi plays Murakawa, an old school Yakuza boss dissgruntled with his chosen life and contemplating retirement. Murakawa is dispatched to the island of Okinawa to intervene in a Yakuza gang war. Caught in a crossfire, Murakawa and his men flee to a seaside safehouse where all there is to do is play childish games and contemplate their lifestyle, before the ultimate bloody showdown.


A slow moving disection of a man fed up with his criminal life and on the brink of a mental breakdown. Beautifully shot, the wide angled shots helping to create their isolation and the beauty of the surrounding seaside. Takeshi gives a strong but subtle performance, and his blank emotionless face makes him all the more menacing and hard to read. For me Takeshi's film is a more intelligent take on this style of movie, Tarantino is a huge fan of his, and his influences can be seen in almost every Tarantino film. The main difference for me is that Takeshi doesn't rely on quirky dialogue or a kitsch soundtrack to fill out his movies, indeed he focuses more on the performance of his actors and the look of his films. Not always great fun, but if you're a fan of Tarantino then checking out Takeshi's films is a must.


Rating 4/5

[Tacitus]

Glad you liked Sonatine, I'd hate to think I wasted someone's money. :)

I can't make any comparisons with QT personally, though he had something to do with the Tokyo Bullett label that released a few Kitano movies on R2 hadn't he? (or did I dream it?) For me, their styles are totally different.

[Darth Stujitzu]

O.K. so I've already done some threads on specific genres, but this will be my general reviews for all the other films that don't fit into those chosen genres.
I'm not going to start with my favourite films, but instead will just review movies as I see them.
Enjoy people and feel free to comment, agree, disagree or bow down and praise me, especially if you're a hottie!!! :randy:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Stander 2003 Directed By; Bronwen Hughes



Set in South Africa in the 70's, Stander tells the true story of police captain Stander who turned to armed robbery and became notorious for his daring raids and for his ability to outsmart the local police.
Thomas Jane is Stander, with Deborah Kara Unger plays his wife, whilst David O'Hara( Braveheart's Irish King) and Dexter Fletcher complete Stander's gang.
The first half hour or so builds up Stander's growing frustration at the political enviroment and the police's heavy handed responses to civil unrest. Eventually caught after one bank raid too many, he serves two years in prison, before escaping and becoming a better and more notorious armed robber.

The film's pace is good, the acting is of a high level, and a lot of work was obviously put into the difficult South African accents. Thomas Jane is one of those actors who has yet to really make his mark, The Punisher wasn't the success predicted, but I feel given a better role he can show that he is a talented actor with much to offer. Unlike most action stars, Jane can also pull off the films more complex emotional scenes without looking like a fish out of water.
Not the greatest film, but a worthwhile effort, and it kept me intrested until the end.

Rating 3.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The man who cried 2003 Directed by; Sally Potter


The man who cried follows the story of Suzie a young Russian Jew sent to London to avoid the building tension and subsequent German invasion. Years later Suzie moves to Paris and falls in love with a Gypsy horse handler, but again the imminent threat of a Nazi invasion forces Suzie to leave the man she loves and go in search of her long last father in America.

What first drew my attention to this film was the cast, Christina Ricci is Suzie , with Johnny Depp as Cesar the Gypsy, John Turturro as Italian opera singer, and Cate Blanchett as a selfish Russian dancer.
Despite having a strong cast, there is little to recommend in this film. There is no chemistry between any of the characters, Ricci's english accent, much like Blanchett's Russian accent become annoying, and I was surprised at how second rate the acting was. Even Johnny Depp, one of my favourite actor gives a below par performance, and his on screen relationship with Ricci is very flat and not very believeable.
I don't know too much about Sally Potter as a director, she also wrote the screenplay, but perhaps in the hands of a more skilled director, there might have been more to recommend. What was a very oppulent time in Paris, the roaring 20's seems dull and lacking any real excitement. Even Depp's gang of Gypsy's have no charm or real warmth compared to a similar role in Chocolat, indeed the whole film lacks any real emotion or sense of imminent peril with the Nazi invasion of Paris.
This is a low budget film that feels more like a stage play, and I was glad when the rather timid and unemotional ending came, a very dissapointing effort for an all star cast.

Rating 1/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Donnie Darko 2001 Directed by; Richard Kelly


Donnie Darko is the story of a troubled teen, trying to figure out why he is having bizarre nightmares and hallucinations involving a demonic rabbit called Frank.


Twisted is probably the best one word description of Donnie Darko, a surreal and slightly bizzare psychological thriller. Now regarded by many as a cult film, I never tire of watching this multi-layered disection of teenage life in surburban America. Similar to American Beauty, this film has loads of hidden meanings and can take a good few viewings to work it out. Perhaps because it's set in the 80's, I relate to this movie a bit more, maybe it's even a little bit of nostalgia, but if you posses an open mind I highly recommend Donnie Darko for your viewing pleasure.
Well shot and acted, especially Jake Gyllenhaal as Donnie, it's one of those films you either get or don't like, there is a slightly supernatural feel to the whole movie, and although at times it can appear a little slow, the ending is worth the wait.
A great soundtrack for 80's teenagers like myself, Donnie Darko is just one of those movies I can watch again and again, a modern day classic for a mad world!

Rating 4.5/5

[Thursday Next]

My favourite French film is Ma Vie En Rose, a sweet and quirky film about a little boy who wants to be a girl.

I would also mention La Reine Margot, although it is a little long. And Histoire d'O was pretty good, too.

[adidasss]

can you believe i've only heard of this movie on this forum and have not seen it yet.....it's crazy i know!

[Thursday Next]

can you believe i've only heard of this movie on this forum and have not seen it yet.....it's crazy i know!
You're talking about Donnie Darko, right? That is crazy! You can get the dvd for like £3, there's no excuse :)

[adidasss]

a-ha, but you see i don't buy dvd's, i can get them through amazon but without subtitles and that annoyes me, technically i COULD watch a movie without them but i'm too used to them, i'm hoping it will come to the videostore but i mentioned that they didn't have american splendor ( which i also haven't watched yet :eek: !!! ) so i won't hold my breath.....

[Thursday Next]

a-ha, but you see i don't buy dvd's, i can get them through amazon but without subtitles and that annoyes me, technically i COULD watch a movie without them but i'm too used to them,
Ok...I'm kind of confused...why don't you buy dvd's and how come they don't have subtitles? Don't all dvd's have subtitles? Or is it a particular language you are looking for? :confused:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Ok...I'm kind of confused...why don't you buy dvd's and how come they don't have subtitles? Don't all dvd's have subtitles? Or is it a particular language you are looking for? :confused:


Can't imagine too many DVD's cater for Croatia, poor Adidassss!!!

[Darth Stujitzu]

Come and see 1985 Directed by; Elem Klimov



Set in Russia during World War 2," Come and see " follows Florya a young Russian boy desperate to help his commrades fight the Nazi invasion. Deafened by German artillery, and seperated from his colleagues Florya wanders the battle fields of Russia witnessing the atrocities and brutality of the Nazi's first hand.


A very powerfull and disturbing film, unlike it's Hollywood counter parts, the hero's journey is all about survival and not heroic acts or self sacrifice. This is a brutal vision of Russia during the Nazi invasion, stark and often horrendous in its depiction, its haunting visions will remain with me for some time. The gradual loss of innocence of Florya is destressing, and his haunted stare cut through me on several occasions, and I know this is a film that will live with me for quite some time.
It portrays the Nazis as a gang of inhuman monsters, and in particular the extermination of a village is as brutal and uncomfortable experience as I can remember seeing on film, it pulls no punches and gets under your skin.
A real anti-war film, that is not always pleasant viewing, but deserves to be mentioned and acclaimed as much as its more famous competitors.
My only complaint is that during Florya's temperal deafness, the cacophony of noise can be disorientating and distracting, and I was glad when his deafness passed.
A special mention of the lead actor, a young teenage Russian boy Aleksei Kravchenko, who gives a very strong and believeable performance, in this harrowing and haunting story.

Not for the faint hearted, but if you could stomach Schindler's list or Saving Private Ryan, then it is definetly worth checking out, I ordered my copy from Amazon.

Rating 4.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Schindler's List 1993 Directed by; Steven Spielberg.


After watching Klimov's " Come and see " yesterday,it's been on my mind since, and although I tried not to draw comparisons to Schindler's List, there are definite parallels between the two films.



Based on the true life story of Oskar Schindler, a war profiteer and member of the Nazi party who saved the lives of more than 1,100 Jews during the Holocaust.

I went back and watched it again today, my main memories of my first viewing was that it was one of the few movies that has made me cry. Specifically the part with the young boy hiding in the toilet, and the shower scene at Auschwitz. Although I remembered these two scenes specifically, it still had the same effect, and it remains a very moving and emotional film that you can't help becoming imersed in the story.
The main difference of Schindler's List compared to Come and see, is that Schindler's List is shot in black and white, and whilst this makes it a little less gory, it looses none of the impact had it been shot in colour.
I don't want to say too much about the film, I think its an important film that deserves to be seen by as wide and varied audience as possible. It's important that the mistakes of the past are never forgotten, although we don't seem to have learnt all that much given the current climate we're in. The acting is excellent, Liam Neeson and Ben Kingsley give subtle yet powerfull performances, never letting too much emotion interfere with a difficult subject matter, but special praise for Ralph Fiennes who had a very complex character to portray. To have any sympathy for his character is purely down to Fiennes skill as an actor, by the end of the film my feelings were that he was the wrong man in the wrong place at the wrong time.
A very thought provoking film, that is surely up with the best of Spielberg's work and deserves all its praise.


Rating 4.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Assasination of Richard Nixon 2004 Directed by; Niels Mueller


Based on the true story of disgruntled salesman Samuel J Bicke, and his struggle to keep his life from falling apart.


This will probably be one of my shortest reviews, an incredibley dull and boring film that I found little to like or keep me intrested in.
Sean Penn gives an ok performance, but I was bored to tears by this film and can't really recommend it to anyone.


Rating 0.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Fisher King 1991 Directed by; Terry Gilliam.



A modern day fairy tale set in New York.
Robin Williams plays Parry, a homeless man living in a fantasy world in and around New York. Jeff Bridges is Jack, a man on the downward spiral after a tragic incident influenced by his arrogance.


A charming film that is a great example of fine acting and Terry Gilliam's unique visual style. Bridges excells at playing slightly eccentric and quirky characters, and Williams was born to play Parry, strong support from Amanda Plummer and Mercedes Ruehl help complete the ensemble.
There is so much to enjoy in this film, especially if you're a fan of Gilliam and his films. Where else would you find a Red-Knight galloping around Cental park, or a mass waltz around central station involving a cast of hundreds? There is even a Python-esque moment involving a bum in drag that always makes me laugh.
I love Gilliam's work and this is a great example of him in all his pomp and glory.


Rating 4.5/5

[SamsoniteDelilah]

I love this film. I was blown away by it when it first came out - hadn't seen much else by Gilliam. Michael Jeter was marvellous in it, as well as the rest of the cast. They were all so strong and so well-used. :)

[Sedai]

I love this film. I was blown away by it when it first came out - hadn't seen much else by Gilliam. Michael Jeter was marvellous in it, as well as the rest of the cast. They were all so strong and so well-used. :)
:yup:

I love, love this film! I recently had the good fortune to aquire a special copy of the criterion laserdisc version WITH Terry Gilliam commentary (not available on the DVD, unfortunately). I just watched the film without commentary the other night, and I will pop this tape in soon to compare my thoughts with the thoughts of the man himself. Actually, been on a big Gilliam kick lately.

[SamsoniteDelilah]

I've just come off a Gilliam kick, right before my Christian Bale kick. :p
Just when I thought I'd seen all of G's, I learned about Jabberwocky. I really love the worlds he creates, and have enjoyed nearly all of the stories.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Chinatown 1974 Directed by; Roman Polanski


Polanski's take on film noir with Jack Nicholson as private eye Jake Gittes.

Nicholson's Gittes is a private eye specialising in extra marital affairs, who bites off more than he bargained for after accepting what looks like a relatively straight forward case. A slow steady thriller that is still fresh some 30 years on, Polanski's direction is excellent, and it's one of those films that keeps you guessing until the very end. The cast is rounded out by Faye Dunaway as the femme-fatale and an excellent John Huston as her devious and meddling father. Polanski makes a brief cameo too, but it is really Nicholson's film, and he is on top form here. For all thriller and film noir fans this is a must see, highly recommended.

Rating 4/5

[SamsoniteDelilah]

Another great one. I didn't see this til about 2 years ago, and have to say that your comment about it still being fresh today is spot on.

[LordSlaytan]

Sorry it took me so long to read this review, Stu. Very well written. It certainly piqued my interest to see it. To be honest...it piqued my interest a lot. Thanks, bud. You just recommended something I had never even heard of. :)

[Caitlyn]

Great review Darth… thanks. Will definitely add this one to my "too see" list…

[Darth Stujitzu]

Ong-Bak 2003 Directed by; Prachya Pinkaew



Ong -Bak is your typical asian kung-fu flick, complete with all the cliches. Basically this film was made to showcase Thailand's new martial arts superstar Tony Jaa's particular brand of Muay Thai kickboxing. The story revolves around a stolen sacred Budha's head from Ting's(Tony Jaa) village. Ting sets off to Bangkok to retrieve his villages sacred ornament.

All the cliches are here, the former villager turned bad boy who eventually redeems himself, the annoying nasal voiced female sidekick(her voice is a form of torture, I kept hoping she would be killed off for the sake of my sanity) the evil genius who masterminds the theft of the Budha head, his ever so evil sidekick/right hand man, and the usual bunch of extras who grow to love the simple country boy hero.

Tony Jaa is indeed a very talented martial artist, Muay Thai is more direct and brutal form of martial art, compared to recent years more baletic performances in films such as Crouching Tiger..., Hero, and House of Flying Daggers. My main problem with this film, was that the story was very weak, and the movie was fleshed out with needless and unbelieveable set pieces for Jaa to show off. After about an hour, I didn't care any more about the film, and even the fight scenes had become repeatative and boring, similar to Jean Claude Van Damme and Steven Segal movies, a few nifty fight scenes does not a great movie make.

This movie is only for Muay Thai kickboxing fanatics, a return to the old days of bad chop sockey movies that are instantly forgetable.

Rating 1/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Maria Full of Grace 2004 Directed by; Joshua Marston


The story follows Maria( Catalina Sandino Moreno ) a rebellious 17 year old Colombian flower worker, and her journey as a drug mule in order to provide for her family and her upcoming new baby.


It's easy to see why Moreno was nominated at last year's Oscars, as Maria she gives a strong and compelling performance in this harrowing story. Well directed and acted, it never preaches, but instead shows the harsh realities of being a drug mule, and how easy it is to fall into that lifestyle.
I really enjoyed this film, and I always find it easier to relate to films that tackle hard issues without having a Hollywood heart-throb in the lead character role.
Without having the huge finances available to most Hollywood films, Maria full of grace has instead to focus on fine acting, a strong story and a compelling script.
Not for everyone, it is slightly depressing due to the subject matter, but I would rather watch a finely crafted film like Maria anyday compared to Hollywood's often clumsy attempts to deal with harsh realities.
Highly recommended.


Rating 4.5/5

[SamsoniteDelilah]

Thanks for the thoughts, Stu. I'll avoid the kung-fu cliche-fest. :D And I've heard good things about Maria... from several people. :up:

[TheUsualSuspect]

good reviews, I agree with ur Maria Full of Grace review.

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Boys from Brazil 1978 Directed by; Franklin J Schaffner


Decades after World War 2, famous Nazi hunter Ezra Lieberman ( Laurence Olivier ) begins to unravel some mysterious goings on with possible links to a new Arian race created by famed Nazi Dr.Josef Mengele ( Gregory Peck ).


A classic thriller, that at the time of release was at the cutting edge of scientific theory, that is still pertinant today. The basic premise is that Dr.Mengele has cloned 94 young Hitlers, whom he is grooming to continue the work of the Nazis decades later.
A taught thriller with an impressive cast, as well as Peck and Olivier, James Mason, Michael Gough ( Alfred the butler in Burton's Batman films ) Prunella Scales ( from Fawlty Towers ) and a young Steve Guttenberg ( pre Police Academy and Cocoon) all cameo during the witch-hunt lead by Lieberman.
Although almost 30 years old, this movie is even more relative today. The recent break throughs in human gene developement, DNA mapping and cloning have all become big news in the last few years. The film raises ethical questions that are echoed in today's society, namely the cloning of human beings and what effects cloning has on subsequent personality and behavioural patterns.
An enjoyable old school thriller , Peck in particular is superb as the ruthless and bordering on insane fanatic Dr.Mengele. Watching Peck, you believe he has ice running through his vains, I haven't seen such a menacing villan in recent years.
Highly recommended.


Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Mission 1986 Directed by; Roland Joffe



Based on the true story of the brutal betrayal of an American Indian tribe and their Jesuit mission, by the army of Spain.


Jack Kroll of Newsweek called this " A sweeping spectacle " when reviewing the film. It is a true modern masterpiece of cinematography, a brutal and haunting movie that stays with you long after the credits have rolled.
Hardly surprising that it won Best Picture at the Cannes Film Festival in 1986 and subsequent Best Cinematography Oscar, it is a lavish, spectacular film that was well worthy of both awards. Ennio Morricone's score is fantastic, and a perfect partner for the stunning cinematography.
Fine acting from both leads, Jeremy Irons as Gabriel the Jesuit priest, and Robert De Niro as Rodrigo, a born again Jesuit with a tragic past.
There is so much to recommend about this film, especially the Oscar winning cinematography, although a little slow at times, the film never drags, and the beautiful lush landscapes are almost worth watching the film for by themselves.
A must see for budding directors or cinematographers.

Rating 4.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Gimmie Shelter 1970 Directed by; David & Albert Maysles, & Charlotte Zwerin



A fly-on-the-wall documentary following the build up and ill fated 1969 free concert by the Rolling Stones in San Francisco.



Very much an old school rock documentary, it hasn't dated well, but is still a very intresting and worthwhile film. The main arc to this documentary is the Rolling Stones decision to give a free concert in 1969 that attracted close to 300,000 people, and their poor judgement in employing a couple of dozen local Hell's Angels to act as security.
Needless to say that it doesn't take long before the Hell's Angels are dishing out their own style of crowd control, which ultimately leads to fatalities. Whatever the Stones and their management were on when they made the decision surrounding the Hell's Angels,must have been the mother of all come-downs when they eventually straightened out. Mind you, knowing the Stones, that probably took a few decades, if at all in Keith Richards case!
A little slow to get going, but it's great to see the Stones at the height of their fame and power, and it's also intresting to see " Flower Power " in its full glory, a real history lesson for youngsters like myself!


Rating 3.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

3 days of the Condor 1975 Directed by ; Sydney Pollack

Robert Redford is CIA agent Turner, code name Condor, who returns from a lunch time errand to find a mass slaughter in his office.


I have been watching a lot of films from my youth recently, films I remember watching on the tv as a young boy. Three days of the Condor is one such film, and whilst I remember enjoying the film as a kid, I didn't expect to enjoy it so much twenty or more years later. The story is still relevant in today's society, scarily so, and unlike other films from the same time, it doesn't look too dated.

Cold war thrillers were all the rage in the 70's and 80's, and what makes these films still so enjoyable are very strong stories that are not reliant on special effects to cover up plot holes. Fine acting by Redford, an actor I have always enjoyed watching, as well as Faye Dunaway as the soft focus love intrest, Cliff Robertson as Condor's boss, and the ever watchable Max Von Sydow as the assassin.
A great thriller, I highly recommend it.

Rating 4/5

[nebbit]

Thanks for the great reviews. :D

[Darth Stujitzu]

Sahara 2005

Directed by; Breck Eisner


Whilst searching for a legendary lost Civil War battleship, Dirk Pitt and his best friend Al Giordino, come to the aid of UN doctor Eva Rojas who has made a deadly discovery whilst in Mali, Africa.

To be honest, I didn't have high hopes for this film, I was expecting something more along the lines of " Romancing the Stone " than Indiana Jones. Sahara though proved to be an enjoyable high action romp/ buddy movie, a play by numbers winning formula that will no doubt spawn a sequel.
Mathew McConaughey is Dirk Pitt, an all action performance that fits him comfortably, whilst Steve Zahn as comic relief Al Giordino does a fine job in helping the film move along at a decent pace. Added to this is Penelope Cruz as love intrest Eva Rojas, unlike most other buddy flicks though, Cruz is on board as something more than just eye-candy, and her character is nicely fleshed out.
William H Macy is Admiral Jim Sandecker, and although he isn't given a lot to do in the movie, it was surprising to see him in a film of this genre, as always he does his job with aplomb. There is also a small cameo role for Delroy Lindo, again not a major role in the film, but still worth watching.

Big dumb fun, perfect for rainy Friday nights, or if you live in Scotland, perfect any night!!!


Rating 3.5/5

[nebbit]

Thaks Darth, I may even watch this now. ;D

[Darth Stujitzu]

Ring 2

2005 directed by; Hideo Nakata



Set six months after the original remake, a new danger awaits Rachael and her son Aidan, with echoes of the past and the cursed video-tape.


For new comers to the " Ring " films, this is the sequel to the remake of the original Japanese horror film involving a cursed video-tape and it's deadly outcome to all who view it.
The original " Ringu " was made in Japan in 1995 by director Hideo Nakata, and went on to become a cult film both in Asia and the west. A susequent Hollywood remake was inevitable, and in 2002 director Gore Verbinski brought his unique style and vision to the remake, starring Naomi Watts.
In Japan " Ringu " has spawned two sequels so far, so again it was inevitable that a Hollywood sequel would follow. For " Ring 2 ", Hideo Nakata has taken over directorial duties, and to start with all was well. I have watched a number of recent horror films from Asia, and Hollywood seems to be learning lessons from their far eastern counter parts. Asian horror movies are on a more intellectual level, and delve deep into our subconcious fears, especially using water, the dark and other more primal fears.
There is no special effect driven monster, instead in most of these films, the main horror character is human, mostly in the form of a ghostly child. Ring 2 was almost as good as Gore Verbinski's remake, but in my opinion was let down by a rather tame ending compared to the " Ring ". The performances were fine, but I didn't have the same feeling of dread towards the end of Ring 2, and i was left feeling slightly dissapointed.
For anyone who hasn't seen " Ringu " or its remake " Ring ", I highly recommend them, especially for the end sequence that on first viewing is unnerving but difficult to take your eyes off.

There are loads of Japanese horror remakes on the horizon, Jennifer Connelly stars in " Dark water " this winter, and we have already had Sarah Michelle Geller in " The Grudge ", but there seems to be an endless procession of films in this genre available for remakes.

Whilst I recommend Ring or Grudge over Ring 2, it's still a good movie to watch with someone of a nervous disposition, especially if they're a hottie!!! :scream:

Rating 3/5 ( didn't have me hiding behind the couch this time!)

[Tacitus]

Oh well. :)

I thought The Ring 2 was one of the worst films I've seen this year, almost as bad as Creep. The opportunity to gaze at Naomi Watts for 90 minutes was just enough to stop me from switching off the television set and doing something less boring instead (that one might be lost on a few people, but I bet you geddit - think school holidays and painful stage school brats ;)).

The worst thing about the movie, for me, was that it's directed by the man himself, Nakata...

[Darth Stujitzu]

I've seen far worse, but yes it was dissapointing and very anti-climatic.
I too was expecting a lot more as Nakata was involved, but ultimately it was a let down. Haven't seen Creep, so can't comment, but after Ring 2 I'm not feeling too confident for Dark Water's remake, although watching Jennifer Connelly for 90 mins is always good in my book!!! :randy:
There were a few plus points for a budding filmaker like myself, going down the Tarantino route of borrowing from every film I see, I could tell you, but I'd have to kill you afterwards! :eek:

[Tacitus]

I think the original Dark Water is far less convoluted than Nakata's Ring (insert your own joke here) but the remake doesn't exactly fill me with expectation. It seems more of a teeth-cutting exercise in mainstream Hollywood for Walter Salles, who is a director I quite like. ;)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Yes, unfortunately once the Hollywood machine gets its grips on foreign films with the sole purpose of a remake it's a lottery how'll they'll turn out. Salles is a good director, but I'm a huge fan of David Fincher, and look what happened to him with Alien 3, difficult to have a unique vision once the money men get involved.
Dark Water has quite a strong cast, and I do like Jennifer Connelly no matter what she's in, preferably not much clothing, but I agree it's more of a trial for Salles to show what he can do.
Very few remakes are often good, but at least they are giving it to somewhat established director rather than some pop-video director. Who knows, he might surprise us all.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Ali

2001 Directed by ; Michael Mann



Biopic of Muhammed Ali's rise to fame with Will Smith as Ali.



I'm a huge fan of Michael Mann, and this is probably the only film of his I hadn't seen. I don't know why, but when it was on general release I just didn't fancy it. For me Will Smith just isn't a serious actor, and perhaps this influenced my decision not to see it. I'm a huge fan of Ali as well, I own several documentaries including the excellent " When we were Kings ", perhaps the thought of Smith playing the iconic Ali just didn't do it for me, who would I have chosen, I honestly don't know.
My main gripes with Ali were that a very complex character was never really fleshed out or disected, instead there was an excessive amount of music montage with Smith trying to look mean and moody.
Mann has always been a fan of the music montage, and moody lighting, but whilst in other films he has not used it to the excessive, Ali felt like one long pop video/promo at times. I half expected Crockett and Tubbs to whizz past in an open topped ferrari at any moment. I found the fight scenes disjointed and disorientating, and not very plausible for the most part, and before the famous " Rumble in the Jungle " there was the most over sentimental montage of Ali connecting with the African people I have seen in ages.

To sum up, a huge dissapointment from a director I normally admire, and what should have been an iconic movie and a huge break from the norm for Smith, ends up knocked out in the first round!

Rating 1/5 ( against the ropes and facing a KO! )

[nebbit]

Thanks for the review Darth. :D

[Darth Stujitzu]

Cheers Nebbs, always good to hear from you!

[nebbit]

Thats fine :D I was wondering why you think "Will Smith just isn't a serious actor"? :D not that i am a great fan of his. :D

[Tacitus]

There's a passible film lurking somewhere inside Ali but it needs a good 45 minutes cutting - many sequences drag on far too long and, as you suggest, it's the Score-driven scenes. ;)

Smith does an impression of Ali, rather than offering an interpretation of his character. It gets very tiresome after a while (say, 15 minutes).

I wouldn't go as far as giving at 1/5, but 2.5 is as generous as I can be. :)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Thats fine :D I was wondering why you think "Will Smith just isn't a serious actor"? :D not that i am a great fan of his. :D



I see Smith more as a comedic actor, and I think he struggled with the challenge of the role of bringing one of the world's most iconic figures to life, due to his inexperience with serious more challenging roles. Smith is fine when he sticks to his rom-coms and buddy flicks, but in my opinion he just doesn't have the acting skills for more serious roles.
It is very hard for comedic actors to play it straight, I was impressed with Jim Carey in Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind, but Carey had cut his teeth on serious roles in the Trueman show and Man on the moon.
So far Six degrees of seperation is the only other serious role I can remember Smith in, again it was a film that didn't impress me all that much.
Perhaps playing Ali was a huge task, and I believe other more talented actors would have struggled too, I just think Smith was a strange choice to begin with.

[Darth Stujitzu]

I wouldn't go as far as giving at 1/5, but 2.5 is as generous as I can be. :)




Perhaps 1/5 is harsh, I think that's due to the dissapointment that it was a Michael Mann film, a director whom I really admire.
Could also be due to the fact that it was a poor choice for Friday night viewing, I was looking for something entertaining and thought provoking from Mann, unfortunately it didn't tick any of the right boxes for me.

[birdygyrl]

Darth, did you rent this or buy it? I tried to queue it up at Netflix and I can't seem to find it.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Had to buy it off Amazon, can't get it in Britain, only in the states.
Wasn't too expensive, bearing in mind we seem to pay over the top for everything in this country! Average new DVD price here is around $30!

[Darth Stujitzu]

Withnail & I

1987 Directed by; Bruce Robinson


Bruce Robinson's cult film revolves around two unemployed actors desperate to escape their squalor for a weekend in the country.


A modern day Cult Classic, it's is one of those films you will either love or hate.
Richard E Grant is Withnail, whilst Paul McGann is I, two misfits thrown together in their London squat, desperate for work but more importantly booze. There are so many subtle little lines or quotes of humour in this film, that even after watching it several times over the years, it still makes me laugh every time I watch it.
I have known people that can quote this film almost verbatim, and whilst I do enjoy the film, I have never been that anamoured by it.
I've never tried the drinking game the film spawned, but I have had a few Camberwell Carrots in my time!
There is something sad about the film, especially the ambigitous ending, but you can't help but be drawn to the two unlikely heroes and their quest for work and booze.
Richard Griffiths is superb as sleazy uncle Monty, who has ulterior motives for his surprise visit during the weekend. Ralph Brown also deserves a mention as Danny the philosophy spouting drug dealer, a role he later copied in Wayne's World 2.
An enjoyable subtle comedy, that takes several viewings to unlock all the hidden treasures, but worth the viewing if you appreciate British humour.


Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Talking of Richard E Grant, Warlock is on the tv, forgot that he tries a Scottish accent in the film! Now, I like Richard, but for the love of God......
Right up there with Christopher Lambert's attempt in Highlander!
Och aye the noo.....

[nebbit]

Withnail & I

1987 Directed by; Bruce Robinson


A modern day Cult Classic, it's is one of those films you will either love or hate.

Love it :love:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Criminal

2004 Directed by; Gregory Jacobs


Two con artists try to swindle a currency collector by selling him a counterfiet copy of a rare currency bill.


Going into this remake of 2000 Argentinian film " Nine Queens ", produced by Steven Soderbergh and George Clooney, I had high hopes, it also stars the brilliant and often under-rated John C Reilly, so there was much to look forward to.
Unfortunately this is a scene by scene copy of " Nine Queens ", and if like me you've seen it, don't bother with Criminal!
I'm amazed they even needed a director for this, there is nothing fresh or new to look at in the remake.
Nine Queens is a decent con movie with a good twist, but I was expecting more from the remake. Don't get me wrong, if you haven't seen Nine Queens, then Criminal is not a bad movie, similar to Soderbergh's own " Oceans 11 ", it's a cool movie rather than one of substance. The cast is good, as well as Reilly, there are turns from Maggie Gyllenhaal, Peter Mullan and " Y tu tambien.. "s Diego Luna.
Yet another Hollywood remake that has nothing new or fresh to offer from the original.

Rating 3.5/5 ( hardly inspiring remake, but not all bad )

[nebbit]

I haven't seen the original, i may look at this if I see it in the video store. :yup:

[spudgun]

Review sounds good, ill try and look for it, plus have you seen the clips of his new film The Corpse Bride. Looks amazing, they say he based his character with the same traits as Edward scissorhands, looks great, see if you can review this one for us , please!!!!!!


www.sept23.com (http://www.sept23.com)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Stop Making Sense

1984 Directed by ; Jonathan Demme



Film by Jonathan Demme about Talking Heads 1984 sell out tour.


I hadn't seen this film since the 80's, but as it was discussed in my film class, I decided to watch it again.
It hasn't dated well, and to be honest, this film is mostly for fans of the band.
I loved Talking Heads during their heyday in the mid 80's, and I still frequently listen to them on my i-pod, so as a fan it's great to see them in concert. There is a real energy to their performance, indeed at times it looks more like an aerobic's class, with the rest of the band trying to keep up with the relentless pace of frontman David Byrne.
Dodgy 80's fashion aside, this is a no frills film of the band in concert, there are a few extras on the DVD, but they are of very poor quality and badly dated.
Worth a gander if you like Talking Heads, the opening version of Psycho Killer is brilliant in it's simplicity, and all the favourites are here, but if you're not familiar with the band or their music, it's probably better to avoid it.
The film is directed by Jonathan Demme who went on to direct " Silence of the Lambs ", but there is not a lot of directorial flare on show here, and I can think of many better music documentaries that outshine this effort.


Rating 2/5 ( bonus point because David Byrne is Scottish, and was born around twelve miles from where I live! )

[Darth Stujitzu]

Hotel Rwanda

2004 Directed by ; Terry George


Inspired by the true events in Rwanda in 1994, where hotel manager Paul Rusesabagina housed over 1,000 Tutsis refugees in his hotel, against the Hutu militia.


A powerfull movie that really hits you hard when you realise that this actually happened. It's soul-destroying to think that during the troubles almost 1,000,000 people were killed by mass genocide at the hands of a Hutu militia intent on wiping out a whole race.
It's easy to see why the film was nominated for so many awards, Don Cheadle as Paul Rusesabagina is excellent, and it's impossible not to emphasise with him as he struggles to do the right thing against increasingly mounting odds. Sophie Okonedo as his wife Tatiana is also great, and there are strong performances all round, which complement the excellent direction.
I love thought provoking movies, and Hotel Rwanda certainly fits the bill, the film is handled well by Terry George, and he resists the temptation to use gory violence to help the film along, instead he relies more on fine acting and intelligent suggestion of the abhorent, senseless violence.

A great movie, that deserves all it's critical acclaim.


Rating 4.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Crash

2004 Directed by ; Paul Haggis



Paul Haggis' take on the racism problem in LA.



Several stories are all interlinked in Paul Haggis' debut feature, the main thread being that racial intollerence is still very much dominant in modern day life in LA.
An impressive cast including Don Cheadle, Sandra Bullock, Matt Dillon, Thandie Newton and Ryan Phillippe, give strong performances on a difficult subject matter.
The film slightly stretches plausability in order to link all the stories together, but Haggis' clever use of racism as being universal helps to hold the film together. Prejudices are universal, and with racism Haggis is pointing out that the problem has so many different faces that it is hard to deal with the issue in one specific or general case.
During the film we see many different forms of racism, covering a whole range of different cultures and our general intolerance to people of different ethnicity to our own.
An intelligent, thought-provoking film, that while not perfect is a very decent effort at tackling such a difficult subject as a debut feature. Some of the characters are more believeable than others, and some of the dialogue seemed a little awkward and clumsy, but I enjoyed the movie on the whole. A special mention to Ludacris, whilst I hate rappers in movies, most of whom are terrible actors, Ludacris gives a decent performance and didn't detract anything from the overall impact the film made on me.


Rating 4/5

[adidasss]

this is one of the movies that i just don't feel like picking up , why? after seeing the commercial for it and seeing that they act with accents ( african accents ) i just thought i couldn't get into it because their accents would distract me way too much....sorry....if they just spoke in plane ol' english it would have been a different story altogether.....

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Jacket


2005 Directed By; John Maybury



A military vetran goes on a journey into the future, where he can forsee his death and is left with questions that could save his life and those he loves.



I settled down to watch the film with an open mind and some degree of expectation, based on the fact that Steven Soderbergh and George Clooney were it's producers.
A confusing mismatch of a film that I totally lost about an hour in. There are similarities to Jacob's Ladder with the subject matter, but whilst I really enjoyed Jacob's Ladder, the same can not be said of The Jacket.
My main complaint is that I felt the film was disjointed and poorly directed, I even had the feeling that Adrian Brody and Kiera Knightly were lost by where the film was going and what the director wanted.
The film relied heavily on certain visual effects to help set up the back story, but it was a confusing mess of a film that I quickly lost intrest in.
What could have been an intelligent and intresting film was badly let down by an inexperienced director who fails to get decent performances from the cast at his disposal, and the film drags it's way to a dissapointing and lacklustre ending


Rating 1/5 ( doesn't even get bonus points for being partly shot in Scotland!!!!)

[nebbit]

Thanks Darth for the review, I am not as keen as i was about seeing this movie, Oh well :D

[nebbit]

Had to buy it off Amazon, can't get it in Britain, only in the states.

That means I probably won't find it here :eek: oh well, i will have a good look before freak out ;D

[Darth Stujitzu]

Los Debutantes

2003 Directed by; Andres Waissbluth



A modern day thriller from Chilie, according to the cover.

Don't rent this, it's a very poor effort and comes across more as a soap opera than any serious acting. There is some graphic nudity from the off, including a lapdancer with a whipped cream bikini, hey if that floats your boat go wild. The story follows a love triangle between the afore mentioned lapdancer and two brothers, and the lapdancer is the local mob bosses' girl, yep, you've probably seen something similar and better. I couldn't even finish it, after about 40 mins I was ready to commit hari-kari, yes fellow Mofos, I have suffered for your sanity, avoid this at all costs, unless you really want to see a whipped cream bikini, which also appears on the front cover, mmmmmmmm, perhaps it wasn't my love of South American movies that brought this film to my attention.


Rating 0.5/5 purely for the cream!!!

[SamsoniteDelilah]

Interesting response to The Jacket. I think you're the first I've seen not rave.
Hilarious about the cream bikini. I'll stop at seeing the cover. :D

[Darth Stujitzu]

Interesting response to The Jacket. I think you're the first I've seen not rave.
Hilarious about the cream bikini. I'll stop at seeing the cover. :D



I normally rave during full moons!!! :eek:
As for cream bikinis, always sound like a good idea, but speaking from personal experience......... :randy:

[Darth Stujitzu]

House of Sand and Fog

2003 Directed by ; Vadim Perelman

An abandoned wife is evicted from her house and starts a tragic conflict with her home's new owners, an Iranian immigrant and his family.


A modern day Shakespearian tradegy, sad and haunting and well acted. Jennifer Connelly and Ben Kingsley are fantastic in their respective roles, and are abely assissted by Ron Eldard, Shohreh Aghdashloo and Jonathon Ahdout.

Aghdashloo and Ahdout reprise their mother and son routine again in season 4 of 24, and it is easy to see that they struck up a good working rapport during the filming of this film.

The film is a little slow moving, but I was especially impressed with the director's visual flair and general handling of the film, and a special mention goes to Roger Deakins the Director Of Photography for some absolutely stunning photography involving the fog mentioned in the title. The house also plays a large part in the film, it almost becomes a character, and in one scene in particular it looks more of a horror movie set, such is the eiree spooky setting.

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, sad and poignant, beautifully shot and very well acted, and the fact I have a thing for Jennifer Connelly also helps!

Highly recommended.


Rating 4.5/5

[SamsoniteDelilah]

I normally rave during full moons!!! :eek:
As for cream bikinis, always sound like a good idea, but speaking from personal experience......... :randy:
ha! Well, that's a whole different sort of review.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Downfall

2004 Directed by ; Oliver Hirschbiegel


Traudl Junge the final secretary of Adolf Hitler, tells of the Nazi dictator's final days in his Berlin Bunker at the end of World War 2.


Based on a factual documentary of Junge, the film starts with the actual Junge before she died recounting her thoughts towards Hitler and the Nazis.
I have seen some of the documentary before, it is a very well thought out interview with one of Hitler's closest confidants.
A fantastic film, and I will be surprised if Bruno Ganz ( Hitler ) is not nominated for an Oscar next year, he puts in a tremendous performance that shows Hitler in all his devilish ways whilst still appearing human at other points in the film.
Although based on Junge's testement, it is really Ganz's film, he demands every second of your attention whilst on screen. There are other strong performances, especially from Alexandra Maria Lara as Junge, Ulrich Matthes as the despicable Joseph Goebbels, and Juliane Kohler as Eva Braun.
For anyone who has seen and loved " Das Boot ", this film is a must see, a fantastic anti-war film that at times is a little gorry, but is even more haunting when you see what lengths the Nazi's were prepared to go, especially the scene involving Goebbels' children.

Another fantastic anti-war movie in the mould of " Platoon ", " Das Boot " and " Schindler's List ", it deserves all the praise and accolades it recieves.

Highly recommended


Rating 4.5/5

[nebbit]

Thanks Darth sounds good :D

[Darth Stujitzu]

Lord of War

2005 Directed by ; Andrew Niccol


Based on true life events, Niccol's film stars Nicholas Cage as Yuri Orlov a Russian/American gun runner.


I was really looking forward to this film, it's the first time in ages I've had the time to catch a movie, and the trailer gave me further encouragement that I would really enjoy this movie.
So why did I ultimately not enjoy the movie? Firstly the trailer is misleading, I was expecting a more action packed movie along the lines of the Rock, also starring Cage, but I don't think I'm spoiling it for anyone when I say that what you see in the trailer is the majority of action in this movie. Instead what I found was an over long, over bearing monologue of small stories thrown together over the space of the last two decades.
I like Cage as an actor, Jared Leto too is always watchable, but ultimately I found it very difficult to find any empathy towards any of the main characters, and what I'm sure was a very good idea was poorly written and executed.
The main problem lies in the writting, Cage gives a running comentary through-out the whole movie, that for me became tedious and boring after about twenty minutes. Cage plays this role completely deadpan, his character seems to be emotionally void, which while I'm sure was part intentional, does nothing to help breathe life into a dull and tedious film. A strong supporting cast of Jared Leto, Ethan Hawke, Ian Holm, Bridget Moynahan and Eamonn Walker as the main villan of the film are given little to do or work with, only Cage's character is fleshed out, but as already stated not to my satisfaction.


Ultimately, Lord of War failed to tick any of the right boxes for me, and I felt let down by a film that promised much but delivered little.
Dissapointing, I hope Cage finds better films in the future.

Rating 2/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Product Placement


2004


So, not exactly a movie, but instead a documentary/concert following DJ Shadow and Cut Chemist on their famous Product Placement tour featuring gigs from Tokyo, LA, New York, San Francisco, London and Glasgow.

So what makes this different from other DJ tours? The main concept of the tour was for the two DJ's to make a contemporary and cutting edge set using only old 45 singles.
People not familiar with Shadow or Cut Chemist( from hip hop band Jurrasic 5 ) will probably want to give this a miss, but for anyone who likes hip-hop, nothern soul or scratch djing this is a masterpiece of two incredibly talented scratch dj's at their very best. This is the kind of DVD you could play at a party instead of music, there is very little commentary, instead the music is the most important element, and is given the most screen time. My personal highlight is DJ Shadow mixing with two 3" records, a true craftsman at work.
I've been a fan of both DJ's for years, and it was good to see them collabourate together to produce a totally fresh and original set using only old soul singles from a bygone era, the fact that the DVD comes with the cd of the tour is a great bonus.
Another great music DVD to add to my collection, however, Scratch by Doug Pray is still my favourite!


A soulsensational 4.5/5

[TheUsualSuspect]

Hmm, I didn't get the impression that it was action packed from the trailers.....I'm still looking forward to this one.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Mindhunters

2004 Directed by ; Renny Harlin


For seven elite profilers, finding a serial killer is a process of elimination. Their own.......

If only someone had thought to have eliminated Renny Harlin, my sanity might not be so fragile! I saw the trailer for this ages ago, and I was wondering when it was getting a general release over here, so when I saw it had gone " straight to video " I was slightly worried.
I'm going out on a limb here, I like Val Kilmer! There I've said it, it's all out in the open. I know he has a reputation for being a bit of an arse, and he has made a few ropey movies, but I always check out his films. After watching Mindhunters, I can only assume Val owed the Weinstein brothers a huge favour!

This is a predictable by the numbers serial killer turns the roles on his pursuers film, the twists were sad and predictable, the cast mostly second rate, and was a tad heavy on the melodrama.
You've probably seen films like this before, all the cliches are here, the damaged hero who must overcome her biggest fear, everyone becomes a suspect to try and create a feeling of unease and tension, the superhuman return from the grave hero, the final twist and the predictable ending. I think Harlin thought by killing off a major character early on ( similar to Sam L Jackson in Deep Blue ) it would throw the audience and keep them on edge. Perhaps I've seen too many similar films that always have the same predictable story curve, but for me Mindhunters is one of the poorer efforts I've seen in years, similar to Saw, it's one of those movies you will either love or hate.
So is there anything here to reccomend? For me, two words; Patricia Velasquez, the yummy mummy from the Mummy!

A sad, predictable waste of a movie, good for scaring young teenage girls perhaps, but probaly not anyone else! ( apologies to young teenage girls, you can come out from behind the sofa now, hey wait, what are young teenage girls doing behind my sofa... :randy: ) See it's that bad I'm halucinating!!!


Rating 1/5

[nebbit]

Mindhunters

2004 Directed by ; Renny Harlin

See it's that bad I'm halucinating!!!

Rating 1/5

:laugh:

[TheUsualSuspect]

LOL, I wasn't THAT harsh with it.

AND I LIKE VAL KILMER TOO!!!!!

[Darth Stujitzu]

Some times you have to be cruel to be kind!!!!!

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Young Americans

1993 Directed by : Danny Cannon


One of these films I hadn't seen for ages and was curious if it had aged well.
The basic story revolves around Harvey Keitel's Drug enforcement Agent John Harris pursuing Carl Frazer ( Viggo Mortensen ) and his new gang of young henchmen around London.


I loved this film when it first came out, for me this was a film that reinvented the British gangster flick long before Lock, Stock came about. Why do I like this film so much, because it showed that Britain could compete with America at making decent thrillers, something we hadn't done since the Long Good Friday.

Keitel has an able cast to back him up, Keith Allen , Thandie newton and Iain Glen all give great performances, and London looks superb, especially the early morning shots of London bathed in glorious sunshine, there is an almost sepia like tone to the locations, but I think what impressed me more was the reality of the film.
Keitel can't resort to running around London gunning down all bad guys in his path, the violence is never over the top, and there is a real plausability to Frazer and his influence over his younger henchmen, something that was particularly relevant to Britain at the time.

Still a great movie, and still relevant today, I'm glad to say I still enjoy it some 12 years on, and although I love, Lock, Stock, Snatch and Layer Cake, The Young Americans will always be the movie that relaunched my intrest in British films again.


A very worthwhile effort if you loved the films of Guy Ritchie and Mathew Vaughn.


Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Descent

2005 Directed by ; Neil Marshall


Six friends go cave exploring in the hills of America, after a few wrong turns and a cave-in, things go from bad to worse....


The follow up to Neil Marshall's Dog Soldiers, couldn't be more different from what I was expecting. The Descent is a much darker, edgier, more mature horror movie than the silly but enjoyable Dog soldiers.
I couldn't help but feel a slight homage to Alien, both build the tension to an un-nerving level before revealing the monster of the piece, and both rely heavily on our own phobias of the dark and claustrophobic spaces. If I was pushing it I would also mention both have strong women in the lead role.
The monsters of the piece were slightly dissapointing for me, but this did little to dampen my enjoyment of the movie.
A great movie to watch with that someone special who is slightly more nervous than you, a real hide behind the sofa effort, thoroughly enjoyable and a great effort by Marshall.



Rating 4/5 ( I'm typing this review behind the sofa, hey a lost remote control!!!! ) :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

[nebbit]

Thanks for the reviews Darth, must go out and rent both :yup:

[Lester Burnham]

excellent reviews Darth, keep up the good work

[Tacitus]

I couldn't help but feel a slight homage to Alien

There's nods all the way through to various films including Alien, The Shining, Apocalypse Now and Carpenter's (John, not Karen) The Thing. There's even a very subtle reference to Deliverance which goes further than the opening rafting sequence. ;)

I think Marshall has a great deal of potential as a writer-director and it's gonna be interesting to see if he will be as vibrant outside the Horror genre (his next film is Sci-Fi/Action apparently).

It's not often thesedays that I pay £14 for a new release but The Descent was one of those times. ;)

The exteriors were all filmed in the Land Of The Rising Kilt by the way...

[Darth Stujitzu]

There's nods all the way through to various films including Alien, The Shining, Apocalypse Now and Carpenter's (John, not Karen) The Thing. There's even a very subtle reference to Deliverance which goes further than the opening rafting sequence. ;)

I think Marshall has a great deal of potential as a writer-director and it's gonna be interesting to see if he will be as vibrant outside the Horror genre (his next film is Sci-Fi/Action apparently).

It's not often thesedays that I pay £14 for a new release but The Descent was one of those times. ;)

The exteriors were all filmed in the Land Of The Rising Kilt by the way...



I was wondering if some of it was filmed in freezing cold Jockland! Obviously the opening five minutes or so, but there were other locations that seemed familiar! By the way my kilt hasn't been raised in quite a while!!! :laugh:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Overnight

2003 Directed by : Tony Montana



A fly on the wall documentary about overnight sensation Troy Duffy who in 1997 sold his first script to Miramax films and was promised a budget of $15M to direct his feature " The Boondock Saints ".


This could have been the ultimate rags to riches story, a bartender who overnight becomes the next big thing in Hollywood, swapping his job to owning the bar he worked in and rubbing shoulders with some of Hollywood's big hitters.

So what went wrong? Ultimately two words Troy Duffy.
Harvey Weinstein gave Duffy the kind of deal that happens once in a lifetime, the chance to direct his own script, final cut privileges,final say in casting, and the chance for his band to do the soundtrack to the movie as well as win a record deal.

Overnight was originally supposed to document Troy's stratospheric rise to fame and stardom, instead it reveals the true Troy Duffy, an arrogant, selfish, egomaniac that ultimately bites off more than he can chew. Not content with alienating Weinstein to the point that he not only pulls the plug on the film, but is alleged to blacklist Duffy to everyone in Hollywood, he aslo turns his friends and family against him. It's difficult to feel sorry for someone who appears to have no redeeming features, and instead of feeling empathy I found myself almost cheering every tragic event that comes Duffy's way.

Eventually Duffy did get to make his film, albeit on half of his promised budget from Miramax, and with only Willem Dafoe as a recognised name, but even after finishing the film he can't get any studio to buy his film, and ultimately his film only achieves any kinds of sale in the video/DVD market which is not included in Troy's contract, the ultimate irony for this self absorbed tosser.
Again, if Duffy was a more likeable character this documentary could be quite harrowing, and even towards the end there is an alleged attempt on Duffy's life that seemed somewhat staged, that just didn't sit well with me. Weinstein is a dubious character, a bully and a tyrant, but by that point the damage he had done to Duffy's career would surely have been just reward, and I found it hard to believe that he would stoop so low. Again by that point we are left in no doubt that Duffy is a man with few friends and many enemies.

The winners in this documentary are director Tony Montana and Mark Brian Smith, who are treated with sheer disdain by Duffy to the point of refusing payment for their work on behalf of Duffy and his band, and it's ironic that their film will probably be seen by more people then the " Boondock Saints ".


Not the greatest documentary, but if you like seeing ******** getting their comeuppence, then this is for you.



Rating 3/5

[Blister]

The Descent

2005 Directed by ; Neil Marshall


Rating 4/5

I think i'll add this to my christmas list, thanks for the review :up:

[ObiWanShinobi]

Not the greatest documentary, but if you like seeing ******** getting their comeuppence, then this is for you.


Ouch.

[Darth Stujitzu]

The kid stays in the picture

2002 Directed by : Nanette Burstein


Documentary following the up and down lifestyle of Robert Evans, legendary Hollywood producer and saviour of Paramount Pictures.


Narrated by Evans himself, the documentary presents a no punches pulled arc through the good and bad times in the life of Evans, true Hollywood Royalty that was behind some of the biggest box office hits of the 70's and early 80's. Having faced and beaten several personal demons along the way, Evans seems keen to clear his somewhat tarnished reputation that involved high profile court cases involving cocaine and the murder of an associate.
It's hard to believe that Evans took Paramount pictures from no.20, to the biggest studio in Hollywood in just over 4 years, until you see the films he oversaw in that period. Films that are still regarded as true classics today, The Godfather, Love Story, Rosemary's Baby, The Odd Couple and Chinatown were amongst Paramount's most successful period under Evans.
Amongst all this is the tale of a workaholic who looses the woman of his dreams and ends up out of work and checked into an asylum, before eventually redeeming himself and winning back his old job at Paramount.

An intresting documentary that proves what we percieve as having it all can sometimes be farthest from the truth. Evans emerges as a survivor with plenty of battle-scars but with his heart and spirit still intact.

Worthwhile look at probably the most creative and inventive time in Hollywood history, the 70's is still today one of the most influential periods in the modern life of Holywood's film companies.


Rating 4/5

[TheUsualSuspect]

and it's ironic that their film will probably be seen by more people then the " Boondock Saints ".

Not a chance, Boondock Saints it has a huge cult following.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Yep, but Overnight got cinematic releases as well, and I can't help but feel that perhaps Weinstein might push Overnight behind the scenes.
Love the fact that Duffy is now blaming the Gulf War for not getting a cinema release.
Makes you wonder what the Boondock Saints could have been with the $15M budget and bigger stars.
Blockbuster are selling Overnight and Boondock Saints in a double DVD box.
Personally speaking, I had and still haven't seen a trailer for Boondock Saints, but Overnight has had plenty of coverage over here

[nebbit]

The kid stays in the picture

2002 Directed by : Nanette Burstein


Documentary following the up and down lifestyle of Robert Evans, legendary Hollywood producer and saviour of Paramount Pictures.
Rating 4/5

Thanks for the interesting review. :D

[ObiWanShinobi]

It bothers me that a man narrates his life about overcoming obstacles. It seems that arrogance plays a part in this decision.

That is why I never buy biographies that aren't of posthumous people. They are just so pity inducing or complimentitive or denying of fault.

But that other documentary on Boondock looks interesting. It's funny that a guy so self righteous to create a movie of that ilk is really a jackass.

Hollywood peddles us revenge flicks and we accept them, but when we see REAL revenge in action (Columbia) we see real un-tarnished results.

[Darth Stujitzu]

It's actually not that bad. Evans doesn't appeal for your empathy, he just seems to want to set the record straight, and also aknowledge just how lucky he was. Never preachy or showy, he just has an intresting story to tell.

I should also set the record straight about the Boondock Saints, although I dislike Troy Duffy, I actually enjoyed the Boondock Saints, but at the time of watching the film I didn't know anything about what had gone on between Duffy and Weinstein.
My point about Overnight probably being seen by more people is questionable, but in Britain the Boondock Saints has only got it's DVD release as part of a 2 disc set with Overnight. I know it has a cult following, but over here Overnight had a better publicity campaign, especially as most people in Britain had never heard of Troy Duffy or the Boondock Saints.

[ObiWanShinobi]

It's actually not that bad. Evans doesn't appeal for your empathy, he just seems to want to set the record straight, and also aknowledge just how lucky he was. Never preachy or showy, he just has an intresting story to tell.


Have you seen the Fog of War? I liked that movie alot, but it made you sympathesize with the specific man and him only. It is his opinion, but there is no counter.

The same is true with every Michael Moore Documentary. I agree with them, but there is noone there disputing the opinion. I just wish that more parties would be represented.

But then again, not too many debates are civil or accurate. So I guess it's just a waste of time.


I should also set the record straight about the Boondock Saints, although I dislike Troy Duffy, I actually enjoyed the Boondock Saints, but at the time of watching the film I didn't know anything about what had gone on between Duffy and Weinstein.
My point about Overnight probably being seen by more people is questionable, but in Britain the Boondock Saints has only got it's DVD release as part of a 2 disc set with Overnight. I know it has a cult following, but over here Overnight had a better publicity campaign, especially as most people in Britain had never heard of Troy Duffy or the Boondock Saints.

Well, I mean, people in Britain don't want to hear about Catholics committing justice. They would much rather see the people behind the movie get dilled then be forced to sit through something that could possibly say one good word about the pope. I guess the same applies to America, but there are unoppressed catholics in America.

(mostly a joke, btw)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Fog of War is a great documentary, as for Michael Moore, a bit of a one trick pony, it will be intresting to see what he does next. The war room is another good documentary I watched in the States, I'm always intrested in seeing celebrities more human side.
At the moment I prefer Morgan Spurlock's stuff compared to Moore, although not so serious he is far from preachy and needy like Moore.
My favourite documentary is Doug Pray's " Scratch " about the origin of hip hop and scratch DJ's, I love music docs, and for me this is the best so far.

[Sleezy]

It bothers me that a man narrates his life about overcoming obstacles. It seems that arrogance plays a part in this decision.

That is why I never buy biographies that aren't of posthumous people. They are just so pity inducing or complimentitive or denying of fault.

I think you mean "autobiographies," and yeah, some of them are just "look at me" festivals. Which is a shame, because it gives a bad name to the idea of writing about yourself. It's easy to assume that people who write autobiographies, particularly about enduring and/or overcoming hardships, are just appealing to sympathy.

But really, many writers write about themselves because there is something very therapeutic about it. As a writer myself, I find it much easier to come to terms with and understand things when I write about them, and it always makes me feel rejuvenated and refreshed afterward (so much so that I can see why writers would want to share the writing with others).

Writers also share experiences with their readers to potentially connect with those who might have similar experiences. A writer can really give understanding to a reader who identifies, but who doesn't understand or can't express their own feelings. And of course, it's always comforting to know that you aren't alone, and that someone else knows what you're dealing (or have dealt) with.

[TheUsualSuspect]

It's actually not that bad. Evans doesn't appeal for your empathy, he just seems to want to set the record straight,

Meh, every documentary is biased. So records can be set straight.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Saw 2

2005 Directed by : Darren Lynn Bousman


The sequel to last year's surprise hit Saw.
Saw 2 continues Jigsaw's devious murderous crusade on those he feels unworthy.


Because it's a sequel it has to be bigger and better in every aspect. So, instead of one or two main characters, we have a booby trapped house full of victims of Jigsaw's murderous games.
Donnie Wahlberg plays a dirty cop who is lured to Jigsaw's lair believing he is about to end his reign of terror, unfortunately his troubles are only just begining. Amogst the victims trapped in the house is Wahlberg's son, and Saw 2 follows Saw's twists and turns and ingenious games to it's shocking twist/surprise ending.

Not the worst movie I've ever seen, but with prior knowledge about the script being changed to accomodate Jigsaw so that Twisted pictures could release a quick sequel to cash in on Saw's popularity, it ultimately feels like a rushed half baked effort. For me, the sequel lacked a little of the tension of the first, and with so many characters it wasn't as gripping or intresting.
Tobin Bell ( Jigsaw ) is very under-used, he comes across a light version of John Doe ( Kevin Spacey ) from Seven, and I was dissapointed that his character isn't fleshed out properly, surely such a devious and intelligent villan deserves a little more script and time spent on him.
Wahlberg doesn't convince me as an actor, apart from being surrounded by a strong cast on Band of Brothers, I've yet to see proof of his acting range and ability.

Harmless fluff if you like this particular genre, but in my opinion it's leagues below Seven for suspense, script, plot and acting.


Rating 3/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Constant Gardener


2005 Directed by : Fernando Meirelles


Based on John Le Carre's novel, the film is set in northern Kenya and follows the story of an activist murdered whilst investigating clinical drug trials on the local population.

My main reason for seeing this film was because of director Fernando Meirelles who really impressed me with City of God. Meirelles' new movie is an intelligent conspiracy film, but where City of God was a frenetic and energetic film, the Constant Gardener is almost it's polar opposite. There were times in this film that time seemed to be moving backwards, and there were some very strange jump cuts and continous flashbacks that I personally felt were totally unnecessary.
This film will not be for everyone, and I feel that people expecting something similar to City of God will be very dissapointed. It's hard work and requires a lot of concentration, but if you're in the mood for something deep that slowly pays off then give it a go.As for the cast, Rachel Weisz and Ralph Fiennes didn't make for a believeable happily married couple, and I'm not sure if I really enjoyed eithers performance that much.


Rating 3.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Brothers Grimm

2005 Directed by : Terry Gilliam


Based on the inspiration behind the fairy-tales of the Brothers Grimm, Gilliam's film follows William ( Matt Damon ) and Jacob ( Heath Ledger ) on their quest from con-artists to conquerors of the Mirror Queen. ( Monica Bellucci :randy: )


Gilliam is one of those directors you either love or hate, personally I love his unique twisted view, and the Brothers Grimm is chock full of Gilliam's style and unique vision. There are so many in-jokes with regards to fairy-tales that Shrek 3 might have a hard time coming up with any new ones!
Jonathan Pryce as Delatombe is fine, but the movie revolves more around the brother's relationship, and being a Gilliam movie there are plenty of weird accents, Ledger in particular seems to have been watching too much Steve Coogan for inspiration for his accent.
All Gilliam's quirks are here, lavish sets, strange accents, his typical sense of humour and a gothic setting, and although I enjoyed the movie I'm not sure if it's amongst his best work.
An enjoyable twisted typical Gilliam romp that will appeal to his fans, but will probably be a little leftfield for the mainstream.

Rating 4/5

[nebbit]

Thanks Darth for the three reviews, you have been a busy boy. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Unleashed

2005 Directed by : Louis Leterprier



Kept as a dog Danny escapes his brutal gangland boss and tries to start a new life, unfortunately Danny's boss is not so willing to let him go.


Shot in my hometown of Glasgow, Unleashed is the tale of a violent man kept like a pet and used by his boss to carry out his reign of violence.
Made by the same people behind Kiss of the Dragon, and produced by Luc Besson, I had high hopes for this martail arts thriller. The cast is impressive, Jet Li, Bob Hoskins and Morgan Freeman, but apart from the sporadic fight scenes there is little to recommend about this film.
Jet Li should concentrate on what he does best, he is a superbly talented martial artist, a great actor he is not, and even surrounding him with acting heavyweights Freeman and Hoskins can not save this film. The main problems are the story, the cringeworthy dialogue and some poor acting by all concearned, even Freeman who I admire greatly doesn't shine in this over sentimental clumsy film.
Is there anyone out there that would take a man into their home who had a bullet hole in their arm?
There is an embarrasing love story that is so sickly sweet I almost gouged my eyes out!!!
There are a few decent fight scenes, but again they are nothing special, the French seem to have a real thing for Jet Li, but perhaps it's time they invested more in a good story than continually financing sub-standard chop sockey movies.



Rating 2/5

[SamsoniteDelilah]

Sounds abysmal. :sick:
Thanks for your thoughts.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Kingdom of Heaven

2005 Directed by : Ridley Scott


Balian ( Orlando Bloom ) travels to Jerusalem during the 12th Century crusades and finds himself defending the city and its people.


Ridley Scott's take on the crusades is a lush epic that unfortunately just misses the mark. The main reason, Orlando Bloom in the lead role, for my money he didn't convince me as a man that could lead men into battle let alone convince them to fight side by side with him.

All the other ingredients were here, a strong cast, Liam Neeson, Jeremy Irons and Edward Norton, superb cinematography and direction, and a good story and script.
Scott is a director I greatly admire, but I feel that in choosing Bloom for the lead role he made a huge mistake. I liked Bloom in the Lord of the Rings films, but I just feel he still comes across more as a boy rather than a man, and for Kingdom of Heaven a stronger character was definetly required.
Not the worst film ever, but not up there with Scott's best work, as stated before it just misses the mark for me.


Rating 3/5

[TheUsualSuspect]

I agree with Saw II, nothing too special.;)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

2005 Directed by : Tim Burton



Tim Burton's remake of the famous book by Ronald Dahl.



I'm a huge Burton fan, and Depp is one of my favourite actors, but for some reason I gave this a miss when it was on general release.
Burton is one of those directors you either love or loath, his unique quirkyness and vision is not for everyone, but I've always been a fan of his gothic showpieces.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has to be Burton and Depp's strangest colaboration to date, and although all Burton's nuiances are on display, ultimately I didn't really enjoy the film.
Depp's performance was a tad too weird for me, and I didn' really settle into the film, the oompa loompas were fine for the first couple of sequences, but like the musical interludes and the film itself I got bored very quickly.
Is it a kid's film? My timeshare kids ( my best pals daughters ) laughed at a couple of sequences, but like me I think they found it a little hard to follow or imerse in.

A weird movie that I didn't really enjoy, here's hoping Burton and Depps next colaboration will be better.



Rating a psycholdelic 1.5/5

[nebbit]

Thanks for the reviews Darth. :) I saw the shorts of Unleashed and thought at the time I would give it a miss at the theaters, I will now, but may watch it on DVD. :)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Thanks for the reviews Darth. :) I saw the shorts of Unleashed and thought at the time I would give it a miss at the theaters, I will now, but may watch it on DVD. :)



NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!


I've suffered for my fellow Mofo's , spare your eyeballs the torture that is Unleashed! :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

[nebbit]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!


I've suffered for my fellow Mofo's , spare your eyeballs the torture that is Unleashed! :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

Ok, My nephew bought it in Asia for $1.50 Aus, did he pay toooo much for it, should I still give it a miss? ;D

[Twain]

Kingdom of Heaven
Rating 3/5

I sort of agree. Bloom doesn't seem physical enough for this kind of role. So I was skeptical going in but I thought he pulled it off fairly well. He handled the dialogue and the honor and bravery parts well. Eric Bana in Troy might have set the standard for this type of role.

Other than Bloom's questionable casting, I thought Kingdom was the best of the summer sword and sandal epics...Troy, Alexander and I'll throw Brothers Grimm in there as a period piece.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Pi


1998 Directed by : Darren Aronofsky


Pi is Aronofsky's debut feature about Max a mathematical genius and his quest to solve the ultimate numerical code.

After enjoying Requiem for a Dream so much, I was looking forward to seeing Aronofsky's debut, but ultimately it was one long slightly weird big budget student film.
Max is being pursued bu a huge financial player from Wall Street and some Jewish fanatics that are convinced Max is on the brink of discovering a secret code that will benefit both in very different ways.
I suppose my main problem was I felt this movie could have been done in half the time, there wasn't enough to keep me enthralled in the story,and I wasn't convinced by Sean Gullette as Max.
There was some visual flair on show, but nothing to suggest that Aronofsky would do such a great job directing Requiem for a Dream.
I sat through my fair share of black and white 16mm student films, and while I appreciate what Aronofsky has achieved, Pi just didn't have the wow factor I was looking for. Thought provoking up to a point, but as already stated, over long and some what tedious for this viewer.
All great filmakers start somewhere, my student films are under lock and key, and probably will never see the light of day, but I was dissapointed by Pi, don't believe the hype!!!

Rating 3/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Dig

2004 Directed by : Ondi Timoner


Dig is a fly on the wall documentary following the two very different paths taken by Courtney Taylor, lead singer of the Dandy Warhols, and Anton Newcombe, leader of the Brian Jonestown Massacre.

Filmed over seven years, the documentary starts with Taylor and Newcombe and their bands as great friends and cohorts in what they percieve to be a new musical revolution. Over the next seven years we follow the polar opposite paths of the two bands and their frontmen, whilst Taylor and his band go on to win a lucrative record deal and tour Europe playing to sell out crowds and major festivals, Newcombe takes a self destructive course of action that eventually leads to him in rehab and his band's acrimonous split.
What's obvious is that Newcombe is a supremely talented musician and songwriter, but it's also clear that his personal demons and self destructive lifestyle will ultimately kill his ambitions as far as winning a record deal and having a successful band. There is an old saying about the thin line between genius and madness, Newcombe unfortunately teeters on the wrong side of that line and ultimately becomes jealous and bitter about his friends success, and resorts to petty childish behaviour towards his one time cohort.

A real rock 'n' roll documentary that is both compelling and often unintentionally funny about how two very different people cope with success or the pursuit of success. It's a shame that Newcombe will probably never find any real level of success, whilst I like the Dandy Warhols, it's easy to see that Newcombe is the more talented and more eccentric musician and songwriter.


Rating, an intresting 4/5

[nebbit]

Thanks for the reviews Darth, I will keep my eye out for Dig. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Mayor of the Sunset Strip

2003 Directed by : George Hickenlooper

Fly on the wall documentary about legendary radio DJ Rodney Bingenheimer and his influence over American radio's choice of music over the last 4 decades.

I'm not going into this in too much detail, Tacitus has already done a fantastic review, and I agree with everything he wrote.
For anyone with a love for music, this is a fantastic insight into the golden era of modern music, and its strange and charming " pied piper ".
Moving, sad, and tragic, it's amazing that Rodney has put so much into modern music to get so little in return.
Highly recommended.


Rating 4/5

[SamsoniteDelilah]

Well, that's two recommends for that one. :)
I guess it's about time to queue it.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Well, that's two recommends for that one. :)
I guess it's about time to queue it.



Does that make my post the laziest review in the history of Mofo?
Definetly rent it, a very intresting documentary, and as Tacitus points out we had the legend that was John Peel over here in Ole Blighty, now if only someone would do a decent tribute to the man!!!

[nebbit]

Well, that's two recommends for that one. :)
I guess it's about time to queue it.

Me too :)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Alone in the Dark

2005 Directed by : Satan, oops sorry I meant Uwe Boll


Ok, so I was under no elusions that this film was going to be bad, I'd read Suspect's review, but as part of my course, I've to pick five really crap movies and write positive reviews about them, to show I can be objective.

But as this thread has nothing to do with my course, I feel the need to vent some of the anger at having wasted 90 mins of my life on this craptacular turkey.
How bad is this film, you know from the first minute it's going to suck, there is a really crap voice-over from Christian Slater, ( surely all his good work on True Romance is now null and void, and he deserves his place on the bottom shelf of straight to video fare like this ), the acting is incredibly hammy and crap, the staged fight scenes are dreadfull, the CGI looks like it was found in a cereal box, and you know it's a bad film when Tara Reid keeps her clothes on for the full movie!!!
So what about Stephen Dorf, well, I think he has found his level here too, he delivres his dialogue like a man constipated and seems almost embarassed to be involved in this turkey.
There are no redeeming features for this film, the dialogue sounds as if it was written by a 5 year old, and just why would a crack military unit take along an untrained civilian for an epic battle between good and evil?

The end credits song has to be heard to be believed, think of the five worst Eurovision songs ever, mash them together and multiply by 50, and you're half-way there! I watched a couple of minutes of the extras just so I would know what Uwe Boll looks like, for his sake I pray I never meet him!!!! :eek: :eek: :eek:


Rating, well Suspect rates this film as 0/10,
my ratings are out of 5, therefore, Alone in the Dark breaks new teritory in my reviews, and is the first film to recieve a negative rating -5/5 :eek:

[Darth Stujitzu]

The 40 year old virgin

2005 directed by : Judd Apatow


OOOOOOOOOOOOOOH DEAR


Part 2 of my craptacular movie fest. So a one joke movie, if you've seen the trailer then you've seen the chest waxing scene, mildly amusing at best, so just how in the name of God did they manage to seep away 2 hours of my life??????
This is an incredibly unfunny movie, at best cringeworthy, at worst a slow form of torture. I had alusions that this might be similar fare to the Farley brothers' movies, but whilst gross and unsophisticated humour, at least I've found genuine moments of laughter in their movies, the same can't be said for this shoddy effort.
Instead of gross out comedy, this actually comes across at times as a cunningly disguised chick-flick, although I hate chick-flicks and rom/coms, they can't suck as bad as this.
I can't recommend anything in this film, the sing-a -long by the cast members at the end is painfull, but at least you know the end's in sight, a truely horrible movie that should be shelved next to Alone in the Dark in Satan's video collection, this truely is the anti-christ of comedy movies. :eek:


Rating a burn in hell -3/5 :furiousdevil: :furiousdevil: :furiousdevil:

[nebbit]

I am surprised Darth that you gave it a 3/5, when I saw the shorts it didn't look like the kind of humour I like. :yup:

[TheUsualSuspect]

Alone in the Dark
Mindhunters

It seems we both have a hate for the new wave of Slater movies, lol.

[Darth Stujitzu]

I am surprised Darth that you gave it a 3/5, when I saw the shorts it didn't look like the kind of humour I like. :yup:



-3/5!!!! Only the second movie to get a negative number in my rating system!!!

[nebbit]

-3/5!!!! Only the second movie to get a negative number in my rating system!!!

Oh ooops, I didn't see the neg thingy :blush:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Paradise Lost : The child murders at Robin Hood Hills

1996 Directed By : Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky

Documentary about the West Memphis Three, where 3 Arkansas teenagers are accused of the brutal killing and mutilation of three 8 year old boys.

The documentary was filmed over seven years, and originally aired on HBO. The film offers a fairly non-commital view of the arrests and proceeding court case, but it's clear that there are some huge holes in the prosecuters' case against the alleged three boys.
I found it very difficult to decide who was telling the truth, but what was blatantly obvious was that the local police force had made some terrible choices and decisions in their investigation.
Eventually the three are convicted of the murders, but there is actually no physical evidence to suggest the boys were involved, indeed apart from hearsay and some non-specific evidence there is no proof.
Was this all a case of mass hysteria and the fevour of a group mentality picking on those it deemed weird or non conformist, or were the boys actually guilty of Satanic rituals, it's very hard to decide, and my opinion varied several times.
The fact that all three seem totally emotionless at the verdict seemed to point the finger at them, but throughout the documentary you realise that most of the people involved in this documentary are about as bright as a dark night, and for some it's seems more about getting their 15 minutes of fame, none more so than one of the murdered boys' mother who almost squeals with delight before going on camera.
The main sticking point I felt was that the case rested on the confession of one of the three accused, a boy of low IQ ( 72 ) who was not allowed legal representation during a 12 hour interview that only the last 45 minutes of which were actually recorded, was his story manipulated by police desperate for a conviction, it appears so.

Not the best documentary I've seen, in fact it was like watching an over long episode of Jerry Springer, talk about hillbillies, some of the main protagonists in this documentary seem to be out to get as much for themselves rather than seek true justice for the horrific murders of the poor young boys.


Rating- an some time entertaining 3/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Revelations Paradise Lost 2

2000 Directed By : Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky


Part two of the documentary deals more with the West Memphis Three's appeal against their conviction, and new evidence that further questions the boys supposed involvement in the murders.
Part two also strongly points the finger at the step-father of one of the murdered boys, who was a suspect in the first documentary, a man who loves the limelight, but is a very dubious character and a very believeable suspect.
There is new evidence, a bitemark that was previously overlooked, that further clears the convicted boys, and the only one not to agree to having his dental impression taken is the step-father.
During the time between the two documentaries the mother of one of the boys dies in suspicious circumstances, and yep you've guessed who is involved in ongoing allegations, the step-father.
It's intresting to see that none of the parents of the victims are involved in part two except for the suspicious step-father who still actively pursues the boys and their helpgroup at their court cases, it's almost as if he's trying too hard, and maybe has something to hide.
There is definetly more of a leaning towards the convicted boys in the second part, the fact that the police have destroyed blood evidence and overlooked certain evidence also adds weight to their appeal which is ultimately unsuccessful.
One of the boys is on death row, and if a subsequent appeal fails he will be put to death, now whilst I'm not totally convinced of their innocence, there is enough of a reasonable doubt in my mind that a further investigation is needed, especially where the step-father is concearned, a man who constantly changes his story and seems to often contradict himself.

More worthy of your time than the first documentary, but again, I've seen better more objective documentaries.

Rating 3.5/5

[nebbit]

Thanks Darth. :D I remeber that story. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

What dreams may come

1998 Directed by : Vincent Ward


Beset with grief a mother who has lost her kids and husband to seperate car accidents takes her own life, not realising she has damned herself to eternal pain and suffering in Hell.

First off, I'm not a rom/com chick-flick kinda guy, but I'm trying new films through my course, and What dreams may come was recomended for it's visuals and special effects.

Robin Williams, Cuba Gooding Jnr, Max Von Sydow and the gorgeous Annabel Sciorra star in this epic love story set in heaven and hell.

On hearing of his wife's suicide and subsequent punishment, eternal misery alone in Hell, Chris ( Williams ) enlists the help of Albert ( Gooding Jnr ) and the Tracker ( Sydow ) to undertake a journey into Hell to rescue Annie ( Sciorra ) and hopes to bring her back to his own personal vision of Heaven.

OK, it's a little schmolzy at times, but the lavish Dahli inspired sets are stunning and there are some very clever effects, indeed there were times when the film came across almost Gilliam-esque, which was a bonus for me. The cinematography is fantastic, and colour plays such a large part in the film it's almost a character, for film enthusiasts like me this is definetly worth checking out.


Rating 3.5/5 ( an extra .5 for Annabel Sciorra, an actress with beautifully sad eyes that would sucker me into the gates of Hell too!!! )

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Rules of Attraction

2002 Directed By : Roger Avary


Based on the novel by Brett Easton Ellis of American Psycho fame, Rules of attraction is an interweaved complex love triangle set in the fictisious campus of Camden.

The three main protagonists are Sean Bateman ( Jason Van Der Beek ) Lauren ( Shannyn Sossamon :love: ) and Paul ( Ian Somerhalder, Boone from Lost ).
The film follows their bizzare fantasies of love and lust and their insecurities about the objects of their desire, and their ultimate rejection.
Again another film that was recommended for it's clever use of camera work and effects, many shots are replayed from the different protagonists point of view, which involves a lot of reverse or backward sequences and some split screen scenes.

It's quite a complex story, but it's well handled and all the actors give great performances, especially Van Der Beek who plays totally against type, and similar to his brother Patrick ( of American Psycho fame ) seems to relish being the bad boy of the piece, especially after years of playing the sickeningly sweet lead in Dawson's Creek.

A good film rather than great, watch out for roles by a blonde Jessica Biel, and very brief cameos from The Wonder Years Fred Savage, and Kate Bosworth.

Rating 3.5/5 ( the .5 being for Shannyn Sossamon, my hormones are all over the place tonight!!! Actually that sounds a bit rude :eek: :blush: )

[nebbit]

Thanks for the reviews Darthie, I have seen What Dreams May Come but i will have a look at The Rules of Attraction some time. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Warriors

1979 Directed by : Walter Hill

At a gathering of New York's most notorious gangs the assasination of the leader of the most feared gang is wrongly placed at the hands of the Warriors. They must battle their way through New York, the police and all the rival gangs to get back home to Coney Island.


OK, so it's a slight stretch to imagine all the gangs of New York gathering in one place to discuss the possibility of uniting to form one gang, more so that no fights take place between the rival gangs, but overall, although it has aged, the Warriors is still an enjoyable modern day classic.
True it's far from perfect, leading man Swan ( Michael Beck ) has the acting range of a one dimensional goldfish, some of the fight scenes look badly staged, and indeed some of the gangs look as tough as wet tissue paper, especially the gang wearing dungarees, but it's an enjoyable no-brainer popcorn movie.
True to other movies made around this time, there is a real apocaliptic feel to the movie, New York looks mean and grubby, and there is a sense of no real hope or future among many of the main protagonists, especially towards the end of the movie when Swan realises that maybe all the hassle wasn't worth it in the first place.
Not a film for everyone, more a guys type of flick, but still one of these movies I'll always watch when I happen upon it whilst channel-surfing.

Rating a slightly dated 3.5/5

[nebbit]

Thanks Darthie, keep them coming. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

OK, so I'm feeling guilty about neglecting my review thread recently, especially as Yoda was good enough to grant me a place amongst my peers, so here's the last three weeks or so of reviews!!!

[Darth Stujitzu]

Insomnia


2002 Directed by : Chris Nolan


Chris Nolan's clever thriller set in the North of America follows Al Pacino as he tries to investigate the murder of a young local girl.

The first time I watched Insomnia, I was dissapointed. My main gripe was with Robin William's character, I felt he was a kind of Diet John Doe ( Kevin Spacey in Seven ), it felt as if the director and actor were scared to make him too nasty.
Watching the film recently though my opinion was changed and I certainly enjoyed the film better second time around.
Nolan's thriller is an intelligent, stylish film, with a great cast, joining Pacino and Williams is Hilary Swank as the rookie keen to learn from Pacino's battle hardened LA cop.
The constant daylight gives the film an eerie, slightly surreal edge, but on second viewing it was the performances that really stood out for me. Williams underplays his role well, and I have to give him more credit than I did on first viewing, Swank is her usual constant self, but it's Pacino's role that deserves the most praise.
In recent years Pacino has been better known as " little shouty Al ", his performances have been a let down time and again, but here he gives a more convincing and underplayed performance, that by the end of the film sees him truely haunted by what has transpired before him.

I always thought Insomnia was a good film, but I'm far more impressed by it now some years on.



Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Land of the Dead


2005 Directed by : George Romereo


George Romereo's latest zombie movie.


So, I'm not a huge fan of the zombie genre, but I have watched all of Romereo's work, and for my money his latest offering is his poorest effort to date.
Each of Romereo's works has a hidden sub-meaning which the zombies are supposed to represent, his latest film is supposed to be based on the Bush administration and the divide between the rich and the poor in America.
My main problems with Land of the Dead are that the characters are not all that involving, and instead of genuine horror we are left instead with run of the mill gore fest.
Why are modern horror films not that scary?
Dennis Hopper flows through this movie on auto-pilot, and it appears that due to his long break away from the genre, Romereo has lost some of his magic and guile.

A dissapointing effort that comes across as a tired and lazy effort.


Rating 1.5/5 ( extra .5 for Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright's cameos)

[TheUsualSuspect]

I'd have to disagree with you on that one. ;)

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Skeleton Key

2005 Directed By : Iain Softley


Normally I would stay away from this stuff, but the fact that it was supposedly written by the same team behind the Ring, I gave it a go.

Kate Hudson plays the hired help who comes in to a house owned by brother and sister, in order to help with the brother who has suffered a massive stroke.
What follows is a tale of voodoo, hoodoo, black magic etc that is slow, predictable and straight by the numbers.
I wasn't expecting to be blown away, but when you have a cast that includes John Hurt and Peter Saarsgard you expect a certain level of film, unfortunately it never happens, in fact Hurt only murmours one or two words the whole film.
It won't surprise anyone that I'd guessed the twist long before it happened, it really was that straight forward!


Rating 1/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

54


1998 Directed by :Mark Christopher


Based on the infamous New York disco 54, the film follows different stories involving those that ran and worked at the club.

Mike Myers is Steve Rubell, the drugged out gay owner of 54, the rest of the cast play fictional characters based on true people, Ryan Phillippe, Salma Hayek, Neve Campbell and Breckin Meyer round out the cast.

I'm sure at the time Myers thought this would be another string to his bow, determined to prove he can play it straight as well as comedic, and whilst his performance is not the worst I've seen, he is far from convincing. The rest of the cast float through the movie, there is no real story as such and none of the characters are particularly likeable, and ultimately this movie is just harmless fluff that is instantly forgetable.
If I'm pushed, I'd say the music was the best thing about the movie, but if you're not a 70's disco kid like me, it probably won't float your boat!


Rating 1/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

King Kong


2005 Directed by : Peter Jackson

Jackson's revamp of the legend that is King Kong.

So, on paper it all sounded so good, a great director who's on fire at the time, a great cast, a classic tale that every generation knows, so where did it all go so wrong???

As I've stated so many times, I'm not a huge fan of films that over-do the CGI, and King Kong is certainly guilty of that.
So although it felt like watching a cartoon at times, surely the cast would have saved it? Well no, none of the main players really impressed me, and it was ultimately one long borefest for this reviewer.
I loved the LOTR triology, but I was slightly worried that Return of the King used too much CGI and was overlong, and again I felt Jackson has become too dependant on CGI and as such the actors performance and the film suffers for it.

It's a shame, because I like Jackson as a director, and normally I always find Naomi Watts and Aiden Brody very watchable, but the film was a constant dissapointment. As for Jack Black, stick to comedy and Tenacious D Jack!


Rating 1/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Alexander


2004 Directed by : Oliver Stone



Stones biopic of Alexander, King of Macedonia and one of the greatest military leaders of all time.


Again, similar to Kong, the ingredients were there, a director who on his day can be great, a great cast and a fantastic story.
So what were my problems this time?
Firstly, the odd choice to give the majority of the cast Irish accents,
Val Kilmer, hmmmm.
Secondly, the jumping here, there and everywhere of the film.
Thirdly,the distracted mish mash of the battle scenes.
Fourthly, the overall direction of Stone, it was a horrible mish-mash of a film that was poorly handled and executed, including the inappropriate use of Vangelis' music.

I think it's fair to say this was possibly one of the worst movies I've seen in some time, in fact if I hadn't been so hung-over to the point of continous shakes and terrible queasy feeling every time I moved a millimetre, I might have been able to reach the remote and help with my suffering. ( even Rosario Dawson's nude scene did little to improve my mood!!! And what was with angelina Jolie's accent???)


Rating -5/5 What has happened to Oliver Stone?????? :eek:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Jarhead


2005 Directed by : Sam Mendes


Based on former Marine Anthony Swofford's best selling novel about Desert Storm.


I was so looking forward to Jarhead, but whilst Sam Mendes latest offering is a good effort, it is far short of the great war movies of recent years. Yes I know it's about inactive troops and boredom rather than conflict, but I felt the movie was lacking a real stand out moment, and some of the scenarios were a little predictable.
There is some great cinematography, and the main actors all give fine performances, Gyllenhaal, Sarsgaard, Fox and Cooper, but it has little to offer that will distinguish itself from a glut of other war/conflict films.
There were some cliches that are getting a little boring, the over the top drill sargent, the red-neck, the betrayed soldier and the messy accident whilst training, have all been done before and better in my opinion.

So, not a bad effort, and over the festive season, it was a welcome break to all the turkeys ( no pun ) I'd watched, but if I'm being totally honest, I was expecting more.


Rating 3.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Festival Express

2003 Directed by: Bob Smeaton



Documentary about the famous " Festival Express " that took some of the biggest bands of the time across Canada to a number of different music festivals.

A fascinating insight into what life was like during the Festival Express, a hedonistic journey across Canada that saw most of the participants try to stay awake throughout it's duration in order to keep the party and the jam session going.
Great to see stars of that era just relaxing, kicking-back and being themselves, whilst having the mother of all parties. This documentary won't be for everyone, but if you like Janis Joplin, The Grateful Dead, The Band, Buddy Guy, Flying Burrito Bros or Mashmakhan, then you will love this film.
The only sad point is when what was supposed to be a great venture gets turned in to a political sticky point by the disgruntled youth of the day.


Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Guerrilla: the taking of Patty Hearst

2005 Directed by : Robert Stone


Documentary based on the Symbionese Liberation Army ( SLA ) a flamboyant terrorist group that waged war on the American Government in 1973 that culminated in the kidnapping of Patty Hearst, the daughter of one of America's wealthiest men.

Intresting documentary that raises some difficult and unanswered questions. During her kidnapp, Patty Hearst was seen to eventually sympathise with her captors and then join them in their reign of terror.
Hearst only served 22 months of a 7 year sentence after being involved in bank robberies and ultimately murder. We will never know for sure if Hearst was genuinely turned or if it she was simply coerced into committing these acts out of fear for her own safety.
The documentary hints at the former, and that her rich father may have pulled some influential favours in order to get his daughter released.
Ultimately what started out as a group of disgruntled students led to one of America's pivotal terrorist groups and changed the way in which the media covered these stories.


Rating 3.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Silver Streak

1976 Directed by : Arthur Hiller


Romance, murder and intrigue aboard the Silver Streak, a train travelling across America from LA to Chicago.

Gene Wilder becomes romantically involved with the girl ( Jill Clayburgh ) in the adjoining room to his, and soon becomes embroiled in a murder/mystery all aboard the train.
Richard Pryor and Ned Beatty also join the cast, but both are underused, indeed it was strange to see Wilder play the straight man in what is more like a Hitchcock film than the comedies we have become used too.
As a straight mystery, it falls a little short, Wilder is not the type of guy you can imagine playing it straight or as an action hero, and personally I prefer his more off-the-wall comedic collaborations with Pryor.

A strange movie that falls somewhere between action and comedy, but doesn't really satisfy either genre.


Rating 3/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Wolf Creek

2005 Directed by : Greg McLean


Based on the true story of backpackers that were abducted and brutally killed in the outback of Australia.
30,000 people a year go missing in Australia, 90% are found within a month.

A brutal movie that shreads your nerves, more disturbing, violent and creepy than most horror films.
What makes it so terrifying? It's based on a true story, and it's not the first time it's happened in Australia, as anyone that followed the british couple's story in the news who suffered a similar fate a few years ago, they still haven't found the husband's body.
Gorry and sadistic, it won't be for everyone, but those that watch it will definetly think twice about accepting help from a stranger again!!!



Rating 3.5/5

[nebbit]

Well Darth you have been busy today, thanks for the reviews, must see Wolf Creek :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Thanks Nebbs, writting 11 reviews in a row was tough going, I'll try not to let it happen again!
I'm off to lie down in a darkened room!!!

[Darth Stujitzu]

Buena Vista Social Club

1998 Directed by : Wim Wenders


Wim Wenders' documentary follows Ry Cooder on his journey to recreate music from a bygone era, by assembling some of Cuba's best forgotten musicians.

When Buena Vista Social Club the cd was launched in 1998, the public's response was as surprising as it was huge.
Ry Cooder had assembled some of the greatest Cuban musicians of a bygone era and had made a cd of truely magnificent music.The DVD follows the recording of the cd in Cuba, gives some background into the main players and shows footage of their two night concert in Amsterdam and their sell out of the Carnegie Hall in New York.

I suppose your enjoyment of this documentary will depend on your musical tastes, but it is an intresting view if even just to see the extreme poverty that the band has come from, and to marvel at their happy-go-lucky attitude despite such hardships. Most of the musicians are over 60, some are even in their 90's, but a real love of their music comes across and it is genuinely heart warming.
Most of these musicians have led modest lives, and it is gut wrenching when you think of the obscene money many manufactured crappy bands make by polluting our airwaves, whilst these true musicians with such genuine talent who pour real soul, rythmn and heart-felt lyrics into their music, just barely scrape together enough money to get by with their modest lives. ( rant over, sorry but I hate manufactured music with a passion!!! )
I really enjoyed the film, but I am as passionate about music as I am film, and my eclectic taste spills over into my musical taste, so perhaps not everyone will get the same enjoyment as I did.


Rating 4.5/5

[nebbit]

Thanks for the review, I love this Doco and the music. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Pianist

2002 Directed by : Roman Polanski


Based on the true story of Polish/Jewish pianist Wladyslaw Szpilman, and his fight to survive Nazi occupied Poland.

Polanski's film about the persecution of Polish Jews by the Nazis is both haunting and uplifting, a real life tale about one man's fight to survive no matter how great the odds were stacked against him.
This is a beautifully shot movie that proves that war and conflict brings out both the best and worst in normal everyday people, whilst being surrounded by total caos and the horrific consequences of war.
What I liked about the Pianist is whilst it has moments of horrific violence and suffering, it resists the temptation to go totally overboard with the horror and gore, and instead focuses on one man's unbelieveable story.
Polanski and Adrien Brody are both worthy of their Oscars, and the Pianist is yet another great film made about the Holocaust and it's resolute survivors.

An intresting and worthwhile watch, which you have to be in the right mood for, it won't be to everyone's taste, but if you enjoyed Schindler's List, you should enjoy this.


Rating 4/5

[nebbit]

The Pianist

An intresting and worthwhile watch, which you have to be in the right mood for, it won't be to everyone's taste, but if you enjoyed Schindler's List, you should enjoy this.

I am not sure "enjoy" is the right word but I know what you mean :D thanks for the review

[Darth Stujitzu]

I am not sure "enjoy" is the right word but I know what you mean :D thanks for the review



Yeah, I kinda struggled with the wording for this one, ultimately though I didn't want to use " thought provoking " again, but how else do you describe a great film if you didn't enjoy it to some extent.
I think I need to invest in a dictionary!!!

[Golgot]

I think I need to invest in a dictionary!!!

Get one of those wise old dinosaurs that whispers word alternatives in your ear.

You know... a theosaurus

" thought provoking "

Talkina thought-provoking, you've reminded me that i must start a La Haine thread...(coz of the honourable mention you gave it on the BW-films-o-the-last-30-yrs thread)...

[Darth Stujitzu]

Get one of those wise old dinosaurs that whispers word alternatives in your ear.

You know... a theosaurus

Damn, I bought one of those blind dinosaurs by mistake, you know the Doyouthinkhesaurus, and was dooped into buying his guide dog as an extra, Doyouthinkhesaurus Rex!!!! :laugh:



Talkina thought-provoking, you've reminded me that i must start a La Haine thread...(coz of the honourable mention you gave it on the BW-films-o-the-last-30-yrs thread)...

La Haine is a brilliant movie that has made a comeback recently, partly due to it's tenth anniversary, and partly to do with the social climate in the French Projects, which is threatening to boil over again.
I have studied this movie a few times at Film School, but I never get bored of watching it.

[Golgot]

Cool :). You'll know what i'm talking about this (http://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?t=11524) then (i think, i hope, i think ;))

[Darth Stujitzu]

Underworld : Evolution

2006 Directed by : Len Wiseman


The follow up to 2003's Underworld starts off were the previous film ended using a battle scene to set the scene for the sequel.

There's not much to write about Underworld Evolution, if you enjoyed the first movie, then you should enjoy this, as it's pretty much similar fare.
Both are popcorn horror/action movies, not the most intellectual of films, but still good fun.
The basic premise is that there is a continuing battle for domination between vampires and werewolves (lyken ), and the sequel further develops the back story into how this unholy battle came about.
Kate Beckinsale and Scott Sleepman both return for the bigger, better more action packed sequel, and both do a reasonable job as action heroes, especially Beckinsale in her figure hugging black latex catsuit ( you can see why I was attracted to the movie :randy: :laugh: ).
As a vampire film it's fine, similar to the first two Blade movies that have reinvented the vampire as a modern day gun totting action hero, it will appeal to a certain market, but I predict it will make loads more money and perhaps set up a third installment.


A no brainer, but good fun.

Rating 3/5

[nebbit]

Underworld : Evolution

2006 Directed by : Len Wiseman

A no brainer, but good fun.

:laugh:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Shadow of a doubt

1943 Directed by : Alfred Hitchcock


A young woman suspects her uncle may be a notorious serial killer when he arrives for a visit.


This was Hitchcock's first real look at the dark side of American culture, and as such is an intresting if slightly dated study of how even in surburbia, evil and trouble lurk just beneath the surface.
There are contrasts all over this film, big city life versus white picket fence mid America, good versus evil, and love versus hate.
Teresa Wright plays young Charlie, named after her favourite uncle, played by the superb Joseph Cotten who is elated at first to hear of the imminent arrival of her favourite uncle, whom she feels will help the family come out of a boring slump in their lives.
Everything is fine until, with the help of a detective, Charlie begins to suspect that their is more than meets the eye with her uncle, and that he may in fact be the " Merry widow killer ".

This is Hitchcock in his element, and although the film is slightly twee and dated, it was very contraversial on it's release, and seemed to hint that the death of the American dream was already happening all over America.
A taut suspenseful thriller that is often overlooked, but in my opinion is up there with some of Hitchcock's best work.
Worth checking out if you can handle older black and white movies, the story is worth the effort.


Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Madagascar

2005 Directed by : Eric Darnel / Tom McGrath


Dreamworks animated feature about bored New York Zoo animals and their adventures after finding themselves released into the wild.

What can I say, if like me you're a fan of Shrek, then you'll love Madagascar. All the usual elements are here, state of the art animation, humour and innuendo, loads of in-jokes and film references.

Like all their other animated efforts so far, it would take several viewings to spot all the in-jokes and pop-culture references, I spotted nods to " Planet of the Apes ", " Star Wars ", and my favourite " American Beauty ".
Another stroke of genius was the use of the song " Born Free " from the same movie, and all in all it's another cracker from Dreamworks.

Great fun for all ages.


Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

An evening with Kevin Smith

2002 Directed by : J.M.Kenny


A live documentary/stand up q + a with Kevin Smith the filmaker behind numerous films including " Clerks ".

I'm not a huge fan of Smith, I absolutely loved " Clerks ", but was very dissapointed in his follow up films to date, " Chasing Amy " it's got Ben Affleck, need I say more, " Mallrats ", of which I only lasted about half an hour, " Dogma " it's got Ben Affleck in it, even the rubber Poop-monster is a better actor, and I haven't seen " Jersey Girl " but it's got Ben Affleck in it!!!!!!

But I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed this film, it's absolutely laugh out loud funny, his stories and anacdotes are all the more amusing because they're real!
For anyone who has had any kind of dealings with film producers, Smith's version of the hell he had to endure during his attempt to win the Superman Reborn job, is a must see, also his battle with Tim Burton and Prince are the main highlights of this 3 hour long film.
Spread over two discs, the film was made at various university campuses and features several different locations and some very bemusing questions from the students in attendance.

Smith had me in stitches, and he could easily turn to stand up comedy, his wry look at life is highly amusing.
Anyone that has watched any of Smith's films and has enjoyed them should definetly check this out, for those unfamiliar with Smith's work, by his own confession he makes " dick, and fart movies ", and thus might not be suitable for those easily offended.

A riot that had me laughing for 3 hours, highly recommended. :laugh:


Rating 4.5/5

[nebbit]

Thanks for the reviews, I love anything that Alfred does :yup: the 4yr old I babysit loves Madagascar :yup: the last one sounds like a hoot :D

[Caitlyn]

I thought it was about time I tried to catch up on everyone's reviews… Great job Darth… :yup: ... but did you mean to give Alexander a 5/5 rating?

[Darth Stujitzu]

I thought it was about time I tried to catch up on everyone's reviews… Great job Darth… :yup: ... but did you mean to give Alexander a 5/5 rating?


-5/5!!! only the third film to get a negative rating in my reviews!
It got the lowest of the low, because unlike Uwe Boll, Oliver Stone has made some great films in his time.
Shame on him!!!!

[SamsoniteDelilah]

An evening with Kevin Smith

2002 Directed by : J.M.Kenny


A live documentary/stand up q + a with Kevin Smith the filmaker behind numerous films including " Clerks ".

I'm not a huge fan of Smith, I absolutely loved " Clerks ", but was very dissapointed in his follow up films to date, " Chasing Amy " it's got Ben Affleck, need I say more, " Mallrats ", of which I only lasted about half an hour, " Dogma " it's got Ben Affleck in it, even the rubber Poop-monster is a better actor, and I haven't seen " Jersey Girl " but it's got Ben Affleck in it!!!!!!

But I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed this film, it's absolutely laugh out loud funny, his stories and anacdotes are all the more amusing because they're real!
For anyone who has had any kind of dealings with film producers, Smith's version of the hell he had to endure during his attempt to win the Superman Reborn job, is a must see, also his battle with Tim Burton and Prince are the main highlights of this 3 hour long film.
Spread over two discs, the film was made at various university campuses and features several different locations and some very bemusing questions from the students in attendance.

Smith had me in stitches, and he could easily turn to stand up comedy, his wry look at life is highly amusing.
Anyone that has watched any of Smith's films and has enjoyed them should definetly check this out, for those unfamiliar with Smith's work, by his own confession he makes " dick, and fart movies ", and thus might not be suitable for those easily offended.

A riot that had me laughing for 3 hours, highly recommended. :laugh:


Rating 4.5/5
I second that. :D
One of those Universities was my alma mater... you know the one where the ape-tards came in really late? Yeah, that one. :rolleyes:

Smith is a better writer than filmmaker, I think. You can see his wit in this, unfettered by sometimes-questionable performances. He's seriously quick on the draw.

[TheUsualSuspect]

I second that. :D
One of those Universities was my alma mater... you know the one where the ape-tards came in really late? Yeah, that one. :rolleyes:

Smith is a better writer than filmmaker, I think. You can see his wit in this, unfettered by sometimes-questionable performances. He's seriously quick on the draw.

I third that!!!!!

I was rolling on the floor with laughter with the film, the only part that I thought it dragged on in was the whole PRINCE bit.

[Darth Stujitzu]

So, I've been off scouring the globe again, and as such I've neglected Mofo like the pair of dodgy socks your auntie gives you for Christmas every year, but never fear, I'm back with a vengance.
I've seen close to 30 movies recently, most on the plane ride to and from New Zealand, far too many to do individual reviews, so instead brief highlights.

[Pyro Tramp]

Sweet! You catch any films yet to be released over the pond?

[Darth Stujitzu]

Munich

2005 Directed by Steven Spielberg.


Steven Spielberg's film about the terrorist killings at the olympic games in Munich and the subsequent action taken by the Israeli Government in it's bloodlust for revenge.


I'll keep this short, as the Usual Suspect has already done a great review of the film, Spielberg has made a bold and brave film, but still manages to dodge a major bullet.
My main problem with Munich is that for me it is obviously biased and doesn't fully represent both sides of the story. I'm not picking sides or claiming to know who was right or wrong, but I much preferred the documentary " One day in September " which at least aknowledges the fact that the Israeli government made several mistakes in it's quest for revenge and did indeed kill innocent people.

My personal feeling towards Munich are that two wrongs don't make a right,and in this respect the film was slightly flawed for me in it's portrayal of the Israelis as all good family men doing their government's dirty work, whilst Black September are potrayed merley as terrorist killers.

I enjoyed Munich and thought in particular Eric Bana deserved a lot of praise ( sweaty montage love making scene aside ), the rest of the cast were all fine, and it was a thought provoking and well made film, but I felt a little cheated by Spielberg in pulling that final punch by admitting that the Israeli government had killed innocent people too.

Good to see Spielberg back to making decent films again, a worthwhile effort and a story that has been waiting to be told for some time.


Rating 4/5

[TheUsualSuspect]

Great review there buddy. I agree with your views on Munich.

[nebbit]

Thanks Darth :D I really liked the movie. :yup:

[adidasss]

i don't quite agree, i think he was going for condemnation of both sides, even though the assassins were killing supposed terrorists, the murders were not justified ( as the main characters finally realizes in the end ). it wasn't necessary to display the murder of the innocent swedish arab. my only quibble with the film was the jewish english accent, either do pure english or a film in hebrew, doing english with accents to emphasize that they're jewish reminds me of older films with russians speaking amongst themselves in english with a russian accent....weak....

[ash_is_the_gal]

An evening with Kevin Smith

2002 Directed by : J.M.Kenny

cool! this is one of my favorites! i own this on DVD and watch bits and peices of it regularly....great review! :up:

[Twain]

Munich
My main problem with Munich is that for me it is obviously biased and doesn't fully represent both sides of the story. I'm not picking sides or claiming to know who was right or wrong, but I much preferred the documentary " One day in September " which at least aknowledges the fact that the Israeli government made several mistakes in it's quest for revenge and did indeed kill innocent people.


I'm a little "concerned" about your post. And maybe I haven't read it correctly but intentionally killing innocent people is ALWAYS wrong. If the Israelis killed innocents, then they are wrong too. But their mission was to kill the killers, not intentionally kill innocents as an act of terrorism.

I'm not an "Israel supporter" and I know there is plenty of blame for both sides. Maybe monotheism is the real culprit. It's certainly made a fine mess of the Middle East...Judaism, Islam and now thanks to Cowboy George, Christianity is knee deep in the quagmire.

[adidasss]

I'm a little "concerned" about your post. And maybe I haven't read it correctly but intentionally killing innocent people is ALWAYS wrong. If the Israelis killed innocents, then they are wrong too. But their mission was to kill the killers, not intentionally kill innocents as an act of terrorism.

I'm not an "Israel supporter" and I know there is plenty of blame for both sides. Maybe monotheism is the real culprit. It's certainly made a fine mess of the Middle East...Judaism, Islam and now thanks to Cowboy George, Christianity is knee deep in the quagmire.
so you're saying that killing the killers is not wrong?

[chicagofrog]

the film was slightly flawed for me in it's portrayal of the Israelis as all good family men doing their government's dirty work, whilst Black September are portrayed merely as terrorist killers.

agreed, but you can get rid of the "slightly" for this particular.

by the way:
"it's" = short form of "it is"
"its" = possessive pronoun equivalent to "of it", in fact the old genitive form of "it" + genitive ending /-s/ - this one would be the right one here.
hei, i write it here but 95% of native speakers on the MoFos make the mistake (scary!!)
;)

[Darth Stujitzu]

I'm a little "concerned" about your post. And maybe I haven't read it correctly but intentionally killing innocent people is ALWAYS wrong. If the Israelis killed innocents, then they are wrong too. But their mission was to kill the killers, not intentionally kill innocents as an act of terrorism.


My point was that all killing is wrong, and the facts are that the Israeli government did sanction the killing of innocent people whom they wrongly implicated in the Munich masacre.

What Black September did was wrong, but you cannot justify the revenge the Israeli government took.
The middle east is a very complicated situation, and whilst I commend Spielberg for making Munich I cannot imagine the film will find much of an audience within any arab communities.
If you haven't seen the documentary about the Munich games, I highly recommend it, it gives a more balanced view of both sides.

[Twain]

so you're saying that killing the killers is not wrong?

Killing the terrorists who intentionally killed innocent people? No, it's not wrong. I'm a pacifist kinda guy but I have no problem with killing terrorists who will do it again if given the chance. I'd have no problem with marching over to the Pakistan border or wherever the hell bin Laden is and shooting him dead. What happened in Iraq OTOH was a travesty and we had no right to invade that country.

Once you've killed innocent people to "make a statement" or spread terror, regardless of the injustices perpetrated on you, you've forfeited all expectations of mercy and compassion.

[adidasss]

Killing the terrorists who intentionally killed innocent people? No, it's not wrong. I'm a pacifist kinda guy but I have no problem with killing terrorists who will do it again if given the chance. I'd have no problem with marching over to the Pakistan border or wherever the hell bin Laden is and shooting him dead. What happened in Iraq OTOH was a travesty and we had no right to invade that country.

Once you've killed innocent people to "make a statement" or spread terror, regardless of the injustices perpetrated on you, you've forfeited all expectations of mercy and compassion.
well, sorry friend, i think there is no such thing as preemptive selfdefense.....and all killing, except in immediate defense, is wrong....

[Twain]

well, sorry friend, i think there is no such thing as preemptive selfdefense.....and all killing, except in emediate defense, is wrong....

No, not preemptive. They've already killed innocent people. Killers of innocent people deserve the same fate. I don't favor preemptive actions either, such as that BS in Iraq.

Killing terrorists is a kind of self defense. Because they might kill anybody, anywhere. People who have done nothing to deserve it.

One must be damn sure of the identity of the terrorist but if the person who blew up a bus, randomly killing men, women and children is spotted; take the bastard out.

[ash_is_the_gal]

personally, i think playing god would make me nervous, and i don't understand how people can attempt to with such ease.

[adidasss]

No, not preemptive. They've already killed innocent people. Killers of innocent people deserve the same fate. I don't favor preemptive actions either, such as that BS in Iraq.

Killing terrorists is a kind of self defense. Because they might kill anybody, anywhere. People who have done nothing to deserve it.

One must be damn sure of the identity of the terrorist but if the person who blew up a bus, randomly killing men, women and children is spotted; take the bastard out.
i take it you see no wrongs in the capital punishment?

[Darth Stujitzu]

A history of violence

2005 Directed by : David Cronenberg


Tom Stahl is a small town family man with his own diner, two men come into his diner intent on murder until Tom intervenes with deadly consequences and possible repercussions.


An enjoyable thriller, with good performances from Viggo Mortensen, Mario Bella, and Ed Harris. Not the usual fare for Cronenberg, but it proves that he is more than capable of doing other genres of film than his norm.
The twist wasn't really that surprising, but handled by a lesser director it could have been too obvious, Cronenberg does well and breazes through this thriller as if he was an old pro at the genre.

Perhaps not quite up there with Fincher or Nolan, but still a worthwhile effort deserving of you spare hour and a half.


Rating 3.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

The River Queen


2005 Directed by : Vincent Ward


Based loosely on a true story about Irish settlers in 1860's New Zealand and their struggle against the Maori tribes.

I went to this movie with little knowledge about it, it had just opened in Auckland whilst I was there, and it was the big new local film.
So the basic story is Samantha Morten's Irish girl falls for the son of a Maori King and has his baby, who is then kidnapped by the Maori tribe of his late father.
The best thing about this film is the scenery, which is a shame, spare yourself from this overlong and tedious film and watch a New Zealand tourism ad instead.
The acting is crummy, the battle scenes are poorly executed, and Kiefer Sutherland's Irish accent is appaling.
I can't help but feel there is a decent film waiting to be made about the Maori's struggle against the British settlers, this falls way short and I struggled to focus my attention until the end.


A poor effort, avoid and watch Once were Warriors, or the Piano instead.


Rating 1/5 ( purely for the spectacular scenery and my intrest in Maoris! )

[Darth Stujitzu]

Ok, as stated I've seen loads of movies on my travels recently, too many to do individual reviews on, so here's a brief list of the crappy ones to avoid.

Stealth Not even Jessica Biel in a swimsuit saves it!

The Island Ewan McGregor, you can't do an american accent, so please for the love of God stop trying to sound like someone from Guys and Dolls or West Side Story!!!

The CaveCole Hauser, nuff said

Goal When will they make a decent footie film???

The Butterfly Effect To all those people that assured me it was actually quite good, grow a set of eyeballs!!!

So, as you can see a lot of craptacular turkeys there, but when you're flying for close to 32 hours, you need to kill some time!!!!

[Darth Stujitzu]

Walk the line

2005 Directed by : James Mangold


Biopic of the legendary country singer Johnny Cash's life.

I'll keep it short, I was dissapointed in Mangold's effort, I'm sure there was a lot more to Cash than his endless pursuit of June Carter.
His bad boy reputation was legendary, but it is merley hinted at in this paint it by numbers film.
Personally I found Ray to be a more fleshed out and entertaining film, and I feel that there could have been a better more absorbing film made about Cash.
The performances were ok, but I think it's a sad indication that Reese Witherspoon won the best actress Oscar for an unspectacular performance.

A dissapointing effort that was neither engrossing or particularly entertaining.

Rating 2/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Memoirs of a Geisha

2005 Directed by : Rob Marshall


The story follows Nitta Sayuri's struggle to become one of Japan's most celebrated Geisha.

A beautifully shot movie, stunning cinematography and great performances from an all star cast. Although not particularly intrested in the story, I was dying to see this movie, the trailer's cinematography really piqued my intrest.
OK, so first a confession, I'm in love with Zhang Ziyi, and would watch her paint a house! She has a vulnerability that makes her perfect for the central role of the put upon and mis-treated Sayuri.
The rest of the cast also give great performances, Michelle Yeoh, and Ken Watanabe in particular, in this epic tale of forbidden love, desire and ambition.
Not for everyone, but I highly recommend it.


Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Kiss, kiss, bang, bang

2005 Directed by : Shane Black

Who is Shane Black? Well, he wrote Lethal Weapon, one of my fave action flicks, so I was willing to give it a try.

So what happens when you put Robert Downey Jnr, Val Kilmer and Shane Black together in a mixed genre film, not much to be honest.
Kiss, kiss... is a horrible mismatch of a movie, neither particularly funny or action packed, Black's direction is horrible and this film is a turkey from start to finish.
What Black obviously thought would be an amusing voice-over is tedious and annoying, none of the characters are particularly likeable or believeable, coupled with poor editing choices and effects, make for a terrible waste of money and time.

If you liked Lethal Weapon, avoid this poor effort and watch it instead.

Rating 1/5

[Tacitus]

Goal When will they make a decent footie film???

Maybe not pure footie flicks, but these have more than a passing interest in the beautiful game:

http://www.dacre.org/flash/www/gbq06286.jpg

Eh, Eh, Eh? :D And Clare Grogan too!

http://fotball-import.com/ezimagecatalogue/catalogue/variations/1032-300x300.jpg

http://www.j-san.net/files/ShaolinBarricadeShield.jpg

And while not a film, my favourite footie-related documentary remains An Impossible Job, Graham Taylor's hapless attempts to get England to USA '94. Part Spinal Tap, part Hamlet, it's one man's descent into madness... ;)

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/images/Coaches/TaylorG2.jpg
"Tell your friend that he's just lost me my job..."

[Darth Stujitzu]

No love for " Escape to Victory "?

Hatch, Hatch, I want to play!!!!!!( stick to the impotence ads Pele )

[Tacitus]

No love for " Escape to Victory "?

Hatch, Hatch, I want to play!!!!!!( stick to the impotence ads Pele )

Ever notice how old Pele is now so virile in his Viagra adverts that he has to wear a sou'wester?

"Of course, I don't need it", he says.... ;)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Guy X

2005 Directed by : Saul Metzstein

A soldier is mistakenly posted to an Artic military base in 1979, where at first there seems to be nothing to do, but does the base have more to it than meets the eye.

A strange mismatch of a film that doesn't know what it wants to be, a comedy or a thriller. Saul Metzstein's other film to date was Late Night Shopping, a misfiring comedy based in Glasgow following the lifes of a bunch of nightshift workers and their struggles.
Again a poorly directed and badly acted and executed film that is instantly forgetable.

Guy X, bumbles along trying to create tension and intrigue, whilst remaining comedic, it achieves neither and becomes one long boring and tedious effort.
What little intrigue there is surrounds a hidden hospital wing within the base filled with coma induced and badly mutilated vets, one of which is Guy X of the title. Michael Ironside plays Guy X, the only vet who is conscious, and a friendship develops between Jason Biggs character and the vet, who is convinced he's still in Vietnam.
Biggs' character along with the help of the ever sexy Natasha McElhone, must try to solve what is really going on in the base, whilst avoiding the base's commander and other shady characters.
Ultimately we never get these answers, and the end of this shoddy film is a rushed and botched effort.

Not much to recommend, Metzstein has still to impress me as a director, but at least he's one Scottish ( Glasgow ) director making movies, whilst I sit and bitch envioiusly!

Rating 1/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Domino

2005 Directed by : Tony Scott


Based on the true story of model turned bounty hunter Domino Harvey.

Tony Scott does make good films, not as good as Ridley, but still good, Domino, is not one of them.
A strange mix of badly used Mtv style editing, and not the strongest story make this one of Scott's poorer efforts.
Keira Knightly never quite convinces as the tough as nails Domino, Mickey Rourke continues down the Harvey Keitel route of being in every movie possible after a major hit, and the rest of the cast are pretty unconvincing ( Macy Gray, somebody shoot the casting director ).
Man on Fire was a great effort, but Scott has become too fond of trying to be too hip and cutting edge in his editing, and his continual use of delayed subtitles to enforce key dialogue is tedious and boring.
There is nothing new or exciting to be seen in Domino, and this formulaic thriller badly mi****s the mark, think of a poor man's True Romance.


Rating 1/5

[Golgot]

Based loosely on a true story about Irish settlers in 1860's New Zealand and their struggle against the Maori tribes...

...I can't help but feel there is a decent film waiting to be made about the Maori's struggle against the British settlers

Hey, was that revisionism, history, or some strange form of deathwish? ;)

Good work as always your Darth-ness. Sorry to see you've had an attack of the turkeys on your recent travels tho ;)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Revolver

2005 Directed by : Guy Ritchie


You've heard all the hype, can Revolver really be that bad?
In a word, yes, it really is that bad. A pretensious, over-bearing, deeply flawed turkey that proves that Ritchie is a one trick pony, who can only direct cockney/gangster comedies.

I'm not a Guy Ritchie hater, I really enjoyed Lock, stock..., and Snatch, but Revolver is complete crap, that proves Ritchie has inserted his head up his own arse.
If you're going to try and make a smart and intelligent thriller, you can't rely on Jason Statham as your main lead. Ritchie trys to be too clever, and only achieves in totally loosing the audience by being too smug. Trying to rip off such films as Goodfellas, the Long Good Friday and Kill Bill leaves you open to all mannner of criticism, and Ritchie's rip off of Kill Bill's animation sequence was a terrible misjudgement which further adds injury to insult.
The twist is easy to spot and is predictible, Ray Liotta is wasted in craptacular fare like this, Statham could have found his level, as for Andre 2000, don't give up the day job.

This film really has to be seen to be believed, hopefully it will mark the end of Ritchie and Statham's careers, it is easy to see why producer Vaughn jumped ship to make Layer Cake.

A horrible turkey from Mr.Madonna.


Rating yep you guessed it, -5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Hey, was that revisionism, history, or some strange form of deathwish? ;)

Good work as always your Darth-ness. Sorry to see you've had an attack of the turkeys on your recent travels tho ;)


Sorry, but the film got me all confused. It is supposed to be about British settlers, but most of them are Irish!!!!
No offence to my Irish friends ( I never call myself British )
P.S. I've seen enough turkeys recently to make me change my Xmas lunch to the vegetarian option!!!!!

[Golgot]

No offence to my Irish friends ( I never call myself British )

Bah, where's the unity? Are we not all islanders? Are we not all European? Are we not all bastards? :D

[nebbit]

A history of violence

2005 Directed by : David Cronenberg

Perhaps not quite up there with Fincher or Nolan, but still a worthwhile effort deserving of you spare hour and a half.

Rating 3.5/5

I saw this last Saturday at the movies, I thought it was ok, but like you "not quite up there" :yup:

Thanks for all the reviews, there are a few there to avoid ;D

[Pyro Tramp]

Damn. Everyone gives Domino and Revolver bad reviews which is just making me curious to watch them...

Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang looked pretty cool though. Shame you didn't like A History of Violence that much, i found it quite refreshing, though it wasn't quite as clever as it thought it was.

[Tacitus]

Revolver

2005 Directed by : Guy Ritchie


You've heard all the hype, can Revolver really be that bad?
In a word, yes, it really is that bad. A pretensious, over-bearing, deeply flawed turkey that proves that Ritchie is a one trick pony, who can only direct cockney/gangster comedies.

I'm not a Guy Ritchie hater, I really enjoyed Lock, stock..., and Snatch, but Revolver is complete crap, that proves Ritchie has inserted his head up his own arse.
If you're going to try and make a smart and intelligent thriller, you can't rely on Jason Statham as your main lead. Ritchie trys to be too clever, and only achieves in totally loosing the audience by being too smug. Trying to rip off such films as Goodfellas, the Long Good Friday and Kill Bill leaves you open to all mannner of criticism, and Ritchie's rip off of Kill Bill's animation sequence was a terrible misjudgement which further adds injury to insult.
The twist is easy to spot and is predictible, Ray Liotta is wasted in craptacular fare like this, Statham could have found his level, as for Andre 2000, don't give up the day job.

This film really has to be seen to be believed, hopefully it will mark the end of Ritchie and Statham's careers, it is easy to see why producer Vaughn jumped ship to make Layer Cake.

A horrible turkey from Mr.Madonna.


Rating yep you guessed it, -5/5

Couldn't have put it better myself (http://www.movieforums.com/community/showpost.php?p=314964&postcount=3497). ;)

Silly film from someone who, if he doesn't watch himself, who's going to be better remembered for inspiring a slew of awful Brit gangster movies than he is for his own output...

[Darth Stujitzu]

Murderball

2005 Directed by : Henry Alex Rubin & Dana Adam Shapiro


Documentary following the USA and Canadian Quadriplegic Rugby teams competeing at the paralympics in Athens.

A powerfull documentary that pulls no punches in its depiction of the gladiator style combatants that compete for paralympic gold.
Right from the off we are left in no doubt that these men are nobody's fools or looking for any sympathy, they are simply determined, driven and often abrasive modern day athletes.
A real testement to the human spirit, these men have overcome horrific injuries to compete in one of the most physical and brutal sports in the paralympics.

On a personal level, I can relate to these men in some way, I almost had my left leg amputated, and although my leg was saved, it was feared I'd never walk again, yet alone enjoy the sporty lifestyle I was used to. What I went through pales into insignificance next to these men, I know how much effort and determination it took me to walk again, I cannot imagine the level of determination these men have, knowing that no matter what, they will never walk again.

There are competative and slightly abrasive characters on both side of the rivalry, but you can not help but admire all those involved.
An intresting insight, and a powerfull documentary that can be enjoyed by sports fans and non sports fans alike.

Rating 4/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Bullet Boy

2004 Directed by : Saul Dibb



Bullet Boy follows the story of convicted killer Ricky on his release from prison, and his attempts to go straight.


I'm always up for watching British films, it's always good to keep an eye on the competition, and in recent years there have been some decent films made despite a cronic lack of funding and forsight by the powers that be.
Bullet boy tries to tackle the issue of gun control, as with everything else, Britain is following America's lead in genocide in the inner city housing schemes.
To be honest, Bullet Boy never really grabbed me, it was neither insightful or thought provoking, and came across as a poor immitation of its more successful American counterparts.
Moody stares straight at the camera, and mumbled conversation do little to help the film, and ultimately there is little to recommend in this film.


Rating 2/5

[nebbit]

Thanks for the reviews, I have been wanting to see Murderball for a while, i will put it on my fetch movies list. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

V for Vandetta

2005 Directed by : James McTeigue


Set in the not too distant future, Britain has become a facist state under the iron grip of Adam Sutler ( John Hurt ), one man dares to stand up to the system and wages a personal war against him and the powers that be, the mysterious masked man known only as V.

Ok, so it wasn't directed by the Wachowski brothers, but it might as well have been, there are loads of their little touches and dialogue all over V. The Wachowski brothers films fall into two categories, the good ; Bound, and the Matrix, and the bad; Matrix Reloaded and Matrix Revolutions, V sadly falls into the later category.
There is a decent film in there somewhere, but over stylised action, poor dialogue and some dubious choices drag the film down into the Matrix sequels league.
Natalie Portman as Evey, and Hugo Weaving as V ( you never see him without the mask ) give decent performances, Stephen Rea and John Hurt try to breathe life into rather limited characters, whilst Stephen Fry is sadly a total let down in what is a rather poor choice for some lame comic relief, the camp game show effort is cringe worthy. Sadly there is not much to recommend in V, it could have been a great film, but ultimately it is let down by the screenplay and direction of McTeigue.
Those that were bored rigid of the Wachowski brothers attempt at clever dialogue in the Matrix sequels, especially the Architect, ergo, visavie, blah blah, blah will probably have a sense of deja vu as V introduces himself to Evey, it gets a little better, but not much!


Hopefully someone will make a better effort in making The Watchmen adaptation.


Rating 2/5

[nebbit]

Thanks for the great review Darthy :D I must see V for Vendetta as the reviews i have read are split, those who love it, those who hate it. :yup: so I need to see it and decide for myself. :yup:

I was surprised when i saw the shorts of V, it said, "a Wackowski Bros. film" so I guess the sex change hasn't happened yet, or it would have said "a Wackowski brother and sister film." :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Thanks for the great review Darthy :D I must see V for Vendetta as the reviews i have read are split, those who love it, those who hate it. :yup: so I need to see it and decide for myself. :yup:

I was surprised when i saw the shorts of V, it said, "a Wackowski Bros. film" so I guess the sex change hasn't happened yet, or it would have said "a Wackowski brother and sister film." :yup:


Apparently they want to be known as the Wachowski siblings after the op!!!!
Am I the only one that feels slightly weird by this?

[Revenant]

Apparently they want to be known as the Wachowski siblings after the op!!!!
Am I the only one that feels slightly weird by this?



No.
Its freaky deaky.

[adidasss]

i have nothing but compassion for those people...can you imagine what it's like to be born with the wrong body?

[nebbit]

Apparently they want to be known as the Wachowski siblings after the op!!!!
Am I the only one that feels slightly weird by this?

I have a friend who had a sex change a few years ago, It was quite weird at first but now i think of him as her. :yup: when i first met her she came to a party at my place and brought her daughter with her, who i had met through a course i did, i said to the daughter oh i didn't know this was your um.............Mum or Dad :bush:................I didn't know what to say,:eek: so i said "Oh I didn't know you two were related". :blush: A lot of people coment on how she is very masculine, or pick up that she was once a man. :yup: she is an interesting person. :yup:

[Darth Stujitzu]

i have nothing but compassion for those people...can you imagine what it's like to be born with the wrong body?


Yes I can,there was a mix up and apparently Hugh Jackman got my body instead!!!
Damn those pesky aussies.

[adidasss]

oh, hugh jackman is well fit indeed ( especially in swordfish )...nice choice... :randy: :randy:

[Darth Stujitzu]

R-Point


2004 Directed by : Su-Chang Kong



Set in the dying days of the Vietnam war, a Korean platoon is dispatched to a remote island in search of nine missing soldiers, presumed dead who have mysteriously begun horrific radio transmissions again.

Billed as the Blair Witch meets Full Metal Jacket, or the supernatural take on Predator, sadly R-Point falls far short of any of the movies mentioned on the cover. Overlong, far too melodramatic and hammy acted, there is little to recommend about R-Point, it rips off Predator, Jacob's Ladder and the Grudge aplenty, but in a cheap and nasty manner.
In recent years the Japanese horror genre has found a huge cult following which has led to many a big Hollywood remake, and yep you've guessed it, Zhang Yimou the director of Hero is currently in the process of giving this Korean turkey the Hollywood treatment, I can only hope that he has better special effects and knows how to build tension, it won't be difficult to surpass the original.
A poor effort, there have been some very good Korean films of recent, but R-Point is strictly direct to a bottom self fare.


Rating 1/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Inside Man


2006 Directed by : Spike Lee


The perfect heist apparantely goes wrong and turns into a hostage situation, but not all is as it seems.


A thoroughly enjoyable heist caper that sees Spike Lee back to his best form, finely acted, taut, clever and with enough twists and turns to keep everyone guessing right up to its' end.
The cast is superb, Clive Owen and Denzel Washington are in magnificent form, and are abely assisted by Christopher Plumber, Willem Dafoe and Jodie Foster.
I've always found Spike Lee to be a bit hit or miss, but Inside Man is definetly up there with his best work, it was nice to see him direct something different, and I would recommend it to anyone that likes a bit more brain than brawn in their action movies.
Spikes definetly got game, and its good to see him and Washington continue their collaborations.

Rating 4.5/5

[TheUsualSuspect]

Good review, I see you agree with mine eh.

Nice to see a film you like finally pop up, lol.

[Darth Stujitzu]

Romper Stomper

1992 Directed by : Geoffrey Wright


Romper Stomper follows a group of Melbourne Neo-Nazi skinheads and their quest to racially purify their neighbourhood.

The opening sequence of Romper Stomper is brutal and uncompromising, an unprovoked racial attack on some vietmese kids that hints at the further menace to come. Apart from one major battle scene between the skinheads and the vietmese, there is little graphic violence in this film, and it comes across as a poor neighbour to American History X. Its soundtrack is almost as bad as the over melodramatic score of Mad Max, and apart from Russell Crowe most of the actors are sub-standard.
The unbelieveable love triangle adds little in the way of tension, and in general Romper Stomper is a poor effort, not worth your time.


Rating 1.5/5

[chicagofrog]

Darth, thanx, you rule

[Darth Stujitzu]

Doom


2005 Directed by : Andrzej Bartkowiak



Another sub-standard computer game adaptation starring the Rock, Karl Urban and Rosamund Pike?

Ok, I'm going out on a limb here, but Doom is not that bad, indeed I'd go as far as to say it's probably one of the better adaptations of recent years. Perhaps the fact that directors Boll and Anderson had nothing to do with it, perhaps it's the decision not to overuse CGI technology, or maybe it's because the filmakers made a conscious decision not to tone down the violence to achieve a lower guidance rating.
Lets be honest, it's far from perfect, but considering I was expecting another absolute turkey, it actually came as a surprise that it wasn't that bad, and I managed to stay intrested enough to stick with it to the end. James Cameron's Aliens is the perfect example of the horror/action/sci-fi, and many films have tried to various degrees of success to match it. Doom is another one that comes close, but still falls far short of matching the equal amount of tension and horror that Cameron wove together so magically in his sequal to Alien.
The main actors are fine, Karl Urban is one of those actors that surely deserves better roles, Rosamund Pike is adequate as the token totty, and the Rock puts to good use all his acting skills he gathered whilst being a WWF wrestler, rather surprisingly in a darker role than expected.
A harmless piece of popcorn fluff for those days when you don't want to tax your brain too much.

Rating a surprising 3/5 ( this review will probably come back to haunt me, can't even blame it on booze!!!)

[Darth Stujitzu]

Battle in heaven

2005 Directed by : Carlos Reygadas


Carlos and his wife kidnap a baby for ransom money, unfortunately it goes tragically wrong, more problems arise when Carlos confesses to Ana a part time prostitute.


I love watching foreign films, as often they are far more inventive and better made than most Hollywood fair. South America has made some fantastic movies over the last few years, City of God, Maria Full of Grace, Amores Perres and loads of others, unfortunately Battle in Heaven is not one of the better efforts.
From the start there is graphic nudity and sex, being a foreign film it is far more graphic than most Hollywood movies, and after finishing the movie, I can't help but feel that the main object of the film was to shock and create contraversy.
The film has a low budget/student film feel to it, there are long periods of inaction on screen, one particular scene, a journey from the airport to Mexico city feels like being on a tour bus over hearing somebody else's conversation.
The acting is minimalist, the cinematography is poor, and the editing is pretty poor also, in fact I can't really think of much to recommend in this film, even the graphic sex scenes lack any real passion.
A waste of your time, give this one a miss, there are plenty of better South American films out there.



Rating -3/5 :mad:

[Darth Stujitzu]

Series 7 : The Contenders


2001 Directed by : Daniel Minahan


The ultimate tv reality show has the ultimate prize, the contestants lives.

Picked by a chance lottery, the contenders are thrown into a deadly cat and mouse game to ensure their survival, they must eliminate the competition with deadly force.
This film is shot in a mockumentary style that parodies so many different tv reality shows that seem to have become a mainstay of tv viewing over the last 10 years or so, there are clear nods to such shows like Survivor, Jerry Springfield and Cops.
Shot totally on digital video, Series 7 has a believeable realistic feel that mocks its many famous influences, apart from the graphic violence and contraversial subject matter, it could probably easily pass as just another reality show, but clever writting, great humour and clever insights into American tv culture make Series 7 a very watchable parody.
There is plenty of black humour, irony and subtle little touches that made me laugh from start to finish, and perhaps the subtle irony the filmmakers used was a little too ironic for the mainstream audience of filmgoers which is why this film was never as popular or wide-seen as it shiould have been.
Not for everyone, but for those like me that despair at reality tv, this is a very funny poke in the eye directed at those responsabile for giving us such drivel on our screens.



Rating 3.5/5

[Darth Stujitzu]

Genghis Blues

1995 Directed by : Adrian & Roko Belic


Genghis Blues follows legendary blind R&B guitar man Paul Pena on his journey to compete in the 1995 Tuvan throat-signing contest in the remote land of Tuva north of Outer Mongolia.

Paul Pena is one of those amazing people that has managed to lead an extraordinary life despite being blind since childhood, despite his disability Paul is widely regarded as one of the best R&B guitarists on the planet, and has worked with the likes of Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker and BB King.
Paul came across throat-singing by chance, but through his determination he went on to learn the art which was eventually to lead him to compete in Tuva.
A heart warming story that crosses many divides, and proves that if the mind is willing, almost anything can be achieved.
A documentary for those that like to witness the triumph of the human spirit, and the coming together of two vastly different cultures through a common love of music.


Rating 4/5 ( check out Samsonite delilah's review, another fine recommendation.)

[Darth Stujitzu]

9 Songs


2004 Directed by : Michael Winterbottom


Set over the period of around a year, 9 Songs follows an intense sexual relationship between Matt and American Lisa.
For those unaware of the contraversial nature of this film, the actors partook in graphic actual sex scenes, and as such it has fairly graphic sexual scenes from the begining.
Winterbottom as director has made a brave choice by filming this feature, but it is the two leads who may have committed career suicide, some would say Kieran O'Brien and Margo Stilley have made a brave and contraversial decision, but from watching the DVD extras Stilley comes across more as nieve.
The film itself is no great shakes, the 9 Songs of the title refer to various concerts the couple attend, indeed it comes across as more of a music dvd at times than an attempted serious movie. Apart from the graphic sex scenes, neither character is fully developed and as such it is difficult to like either. In fact as a couple they come across as fairly unremarkeable and unintresting, it certainly came across as a relationship built only on sex, wheather that was intentional, I'm not sure.

Its not hard to understand why this film sunk fairly quickly after the initial contraversy.


Rating 1/5 ( more for the music than the fairly unemotional detached sex scenes, the soundtrack would be a better bet! )

[Darth Stujitzu]

Finding Neverland

2004 Directed by : Marc Forster

Based on the story of Peter Pan writer JM Barrie and his unconventional friendship with a widow and her four boys.

Johnny Depp is one of my favourite actors, but I put off seing this film for ages, it just didn't appeal to me that much.
First lets get one thing out of the way, Depp's Scottish accent is one of the better I've heard in most movies. Mike Myers in " So I married an axe murder " and " Shrek " is still my favourite, even though both are slightly over the top, but Depp's subtle attempt at the Scottish brogue is a worthy attempt.
This is a nice little movie, always intresting with great little insights into where Barrie got some of his inspiration for Peter Pan, more of a kids movie, but adults will find plenty to keep them intrested.
The main actors are all great, this is more a vehicle for Depp and Kate Winslett, but they are abely supported by a fine cast including Dustin Hoffman and a cameo by one of Britains best comedy writers Paul Whitehouse.
Not as much fantasy as other movies surrounding Peter Pan, but still highly enjoyable if slightly unspectacular.


Rating 3/5

[SamsoniteDelilah]

Wow, look at you go! :D Nice reviews, Darth, thanks!!

[Darth Stujitzu]

Too much caffine today!
Took the weekend off as it was Easter, back to the hard graft tomorrow!
Thanks for stopping by Sammy D.

[Darth Stujitzu]

The Missing

2003 Directed by : Ron Howard.

A woman ( Cate Blanchett ) forms an uneasy alliance with her estranged father (Tommy Lee Jones ) when her eldest daughter is kidnapped by a rogue Indian Chief.

I had missed this in the cinema, and to be honest had totally forgotten about it until I saw it in the Virgin sale at measly £3.
£3 for a Ron Howard flick, what madness was this?
OK, to be honest, the Missing is an ok film, not up there with Howard, or Lee Jones best work, which is a shame as the story was definetly an intresting one.
American Indian history fascinates me, and as such I expected to really enjoy the Missing, but unlike Howards other films it lacks drama and tension.
The film is watchable without ever being compelling viewing, a great director, cast and story should have been handled better, and as such I was ultimately left feeling underwhelmed by the whole experience, it also could have been half an hour shorter.

Dissapointing fair from an established director like Howard.


Rating 3/5 ( OK, but could have been so much better )

[Darth Stujitzu]

Bad Education


2004 Directed by : Pedro Almodovar


Two school friends are reunited after several years apart, Enrique a film director and Ignacio a young upcoming actor. Together they open up old wounds from their school days, but what other secrets is Ignacio keeping?

Firstly an apology, I feel a bit of a fraud, despite my love of foreign films, this was my first Almodovar film. I recently bought his boxset, a miserly £30 for 5 films, including " All about my mother ", " talk to her ", " tie me up, tie me down " and " Live flesh ".
Although I've not watched his films, I'm aware of Almodovar's style and reputation, and was eager to disect it for myself.

I picked Bad Education first because Gael Garcia Bernal was in it, an actor I'm a big fan of, Bernal plays the mysterious Ignacio a man with many secrets some of which are revealed through his new screenplay. The are several stories interweaved, and right from the opening title sequence there is a real film noir feel to the film with several Hitchcock traits thrown in for good measure.
There are similarities to the Waschowski Brothers' film Bound, and if you enjoyed that, you should enjoy Bad Education.
Bad Education is what a modern Noir film should be, an intriguing story with twists and turns, suspicion and counter suspicion that is tightly wound, well acted and directed.
I'm aware that Bad Education is seen as a break from the norm by Almodovar, I just hope his other films are as well crafted and directed with such flourish, in due time, I'll let you know.


Rating 4/5

[adidasss]

La mala educacion is one of his weaker films IMHO, my favourites are Hable con ella and Todo sobre mi madre....both much better than La mala educacion. i'm sure you wont be dissapointed....

[Darth Stujitzu]

Hey adidasss, long time no hear, thanks for stopping by!
Looking forward to watching more Almodovar films.