Movie Tab II [Archive] - Page 39

Used Future

03-03-09, 08:29 PM

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/6232/redsunmovieposterrq3.jpg

Red Sun (Terence Young 1971) 3+
I just had to see this after Mark posted it on 'Baker's Dozen' a couple of weeks back. The prospect of Toshirō Mifune (The Seven Samurai) teaming up with Charles Bronson (The Magnificent Seven a remake of the former) was too good to pass up; hence me ordering a copy on Amazon the same day.

What I got was an entertaining culture-clash western with Bronson's bandit Link double crossed and left for dead by his roguish partner Gauche (Le Samourai himself Alain Delon) after a train robbery. Initially there to steal a gold shipment the gang's attention subsequently becomes drawn to a car transporting the Japanese ambassador, and a priceless katana sword he intends as a gift for the president. Naturally Gauche steals it forcing the diplomat to send his one remaining samurai guard Kuroda (Mifune) to give chase aided by the captured (and very reluctant) Link...

This was a lot of fun with the two eminently likable leads forming a charming chemistry as the usual buddy/east-meets-west shenanigans played out. Nice use of locations from Young (particularly the cornfield sequence) and some decent action scenes including a fantastic fight between Kuroda and an indian armed with a spear, made this well worthwhile. There were some minor issues, like the underuse of Delon's amusingly slimy Gauche, and the rather pointless inclusion of Ursula Andress as his love interest. Overall though I found Red Sun to be good solid (if unremarkable) fun, and well worth seeing if only to hear Mifune speak in English. I wonder where they got the idea for Shanghai Noon from? hmmm...

http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn298/CinemaFrenzy/Mikey%20B/Great_silence-732437.jpg

The Great Silence (Sergio Corbucci 1968) 4+
Wow! this was something really special...I've recently decided to go on a Spaghetti western binge, because besides Sergio Leone's films like his 'dollars' trilogy (1964-66), Once Upon A Time in the West (1968), and A Fistfull of Dynamite (1971); I've only really seen Sergio Corbucci's cult hit Django (1966), and Giulio Petroni's Death Rides a Horse (1967). Considering how much I love all those films it seemed odd to me that I've never really explored the genre further. Cue some feverish research (I googled 'top twenty Spaghetti westerns') and this is the film that nearly always features as one of the very best.

The Great Silence differs from the other Spaghettis I've seen in that the action takes place in snowy mountain locales rather than the usual Mexican border towns. Loosely based on historical events the story revolves around 'Silence' (Jean-Louis Trintignant) a mute gunslinger who always draws his gun (a 'Broomhandle' Mauser) in self defense. Feared for his lightening speed Silence defends wanted bandits from ruthless bounty killers who'd rather take a man dead than alive regardless of his crime. Most notorious of these is Loco (Klaus Kinski) who openly admits to always killing his quarry safe in the knowledge that it's 'all within the law'. When he kills a black man wanted on petty charges however, the man's widow, Pauline (the lovely Vonetta McGee) asks Silence to kill Loco in revenge. This takes him to the aptly named town of Snow Hill where a new Sheriff vows to usher in changes for the better, and a corrupt figure from Silence's past is in league with the bounty killers...

Despite having some familiar sounding 'revenge' plot elements, The Great Silence is actually a deep and complex western. For one thing the lines between good and bad are rather blurred to say the least; are the bounty killers really that bad? after all they're providing a public service by exterminating the bandits. Is Silence such a clear cut good guy? he goads men into drawing first so he can kill them and defends wanted criminals. It's these questions combined with Corbucci's gritty style, and the beautifully shot snow scapes contrasted with flashes of blood soaked violence, that make The Great Silence such an affecting film. Throw into the mix a racy interracial love scene between Silence and Pauline and you really get the sense that back in 1968 Corbucci was taking some big risks. Another major plus is the presence of Klaus Kinski clearly tailor made for the role of Loco. I watched the dubbed English track (just couldn't bring myself to watch a western in Italian) and whilst it detracted slightly from the film, Kinski's body language and considerable screen presence ensured the character carried a beguiling roguish charm, leaving me in further indecision over who to root for. Then there's the downbeat ending...I've seen some unhappy endings in my time but none of them compare to the finale here. It's both shattering and exhilarating at the same time as Corbucci rips up the rule book, forgoing comic book sentimentality in favor of harsh reality. Set all this to Morricone's haunting score and the resultant film is further justification for seeking more of these out. Brilliant.

mark f

03-03-09, 08:49 PM

Yep, it was the finale which pushed The Great Silence over the edge into special for fans of spaghetti westerns or westerns in general. Have you seen My Name is Nobody? That's one of my fave westerns, period, but I didn't include it in the game because it really looks like producer Leone may well have directed most of it. That's just about as fun as a spaghetti western can get; it's certainly on the opposite end of the mood scale from The Great Silence, but it's massively-entertaining.

http://www.axelmusic.com/resources/covers/0/014381252125.jpg

linespalsy

03-03-09, 08:51 PM

My Name is Nobody has an AWESOME beginning.

Pyro Tramp

03-03-09, 09:05 PM

Wow, Red Sun has a frickin' crazy cast of people i'd have never thought would be in a film together! Was waiting for a write-up on Great Silence, UF, after i saw you picked up in the DVD thread. I think Sukiyaki Western sprung an urge to watch some more spaghetti westerns though was too hesitant knowing how many stinkers there must be out there; where you pick your copy of that one up, eBay?

As for Enter the Dragon, i can kinda emphasise with Iro on points but it's still just a showcase for Lee to kick ass and not much else. With that film, do actually prefer Jim Kelly and John Saxon because they are just cool cats.

Used Future

03-03-09, 09:05 PM

Have you seen My Name is Nobody?

Not yet...it's on my shortlist, but I'll be watching Damiano Damiani's A Bullet For The General next. Also want to check out more of Corbucci's work. :)

MovieMan8877445

03-03-09, 09:15 PM

The Hustler - 4

I really had no idea what this was even about before I started watching it; so I basically had no expectations for this movie. The only reason I actually even really bought it was because I saw Paul Newman on the cover, and I've been wanting to see some more Paul Newman movies. If you would count this as a sports movie, then I'd probably say that it's got to be one of my favorite sports movies. I'm not sure if you would though, because there was barely any pool in the middle of the movie; mainly just the beginning and ending of the movie. The first 40 minutes were my favorite part of The Hustler; Newman just really shined in those 40 minutes; that's not to say that he didn't do an incredible job the whole way through the movie.

I personally think that role was just meant for him; he seemed to act so great in it. His character reminded me a lot of Jake La Motta from Raging Bull; how they both just seemed to love doing what they did so much, and how they just got so competitive. I actually think this as a movie could be compared some to Raging Bull as well; both in black and white; both about sports; both not mainly focusing on the sport throughout the whole movie.

I was personally very glad that I decided to pick this up on Friday night; I only wish that I would've watched it sooner than I did. Anyone that hasn't had a chance to view this yet should get to it sometime soon; especially if you're a Paul Newman fan. Paul Newman was just incredible in this, even if he still wasn't as good as he was in Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid. Robert Redford helped him a lot in Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid; I only wish that I could've started getting into him sooner than I did. I still plan on seeing the rest of Paul Newman's movies; I hope all of them are as good as the three I've seen so far. I actually have a Paul Newman film in my Hitchcock collection that I still haven't watched yet; maybe I should get to watching that one sometime soon.

http://image.guardian.co.uk/sys-images/Film/Pix/pictures/2007/05/29/paulnewman460.jpg

Lennon

03-03-09, 10:46 PM

http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n157/joshm9393/Dante.jpg
Dante's Inferno (Harry Lachman,1935) 2.5

Not sure why I had this one set on my DVR. I'm not enitierly sure who Spencer Tracy was (I think I've heard the name before.) I've never read the poem (I kind of want to though.) But something possessed me to record it and watch it. It was pretty meh.

It has to be the most mislabeled movie ever. I'm not sure why it's named Dante's Inferno, as it's the place he started, and the one "reading" (aka really long shot of hell) felt really out of place. I would just take out the hell stuff, and add more about the rise, and fall, of James Carter. But they didn't, so only watch when there's nothing else on and you're bored.

TheDOMINATOR

03-03-09, 10:56 PM

Dante's Inferno (Harry Lachman,1935) 2.5

Not sure why I had this one set on my DVR. I'm not enitierly sure who Spencer Tracy was (I think I've heard the name before.) I've never read the poem (I kind of want to though.) But something possessed me to record it and watch it. It was pretty meh.

I'm actually in the process of reading The Divine Comedy (which contains Dante's Inferno) right now, and have been for the past month or so. I'm more than half-way through the entirety of the poem, having completely read Dante's Inferno, and I can already clearly tell that it's the greatest work of literature I've ever read. It's incredible.

Is that film based on the poem at all, or does it share its name and nothing else? Because a film and video game are planned to be released in the future actually based on the poem, and they're both going to be called "Dante's Inferno." Here's a trailer for the game:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=he0LdSgaX7o

Universal Studios already has the film rights to the movie based on the upcoming game.

Iroquois

03-03-09, 11:00 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/90/Chapman_as_Brian.jpg

Life of Brian (Jones, 1979) - 3.5+

Yet another re-watch of a film I haven't seen in years. While I still don't think it's as laugh-out-loud funny as Holy Grail, I have to admit that it's still much more solid story-wise and much more straightforward in its mockery and satire. Graham Chapman is pitch-perfect as the perpetually put-upon Brian, a lone voice of reason amidst the collective insanity of the inhabitants of Biblical Jerusalem and their oh-so-undesirable Roman overlords. I doubt it'll end up making my Top 100 a second time around, but it's still good for a few laughs or at the very least an incredibly astute satire on religion and the people who twist it however they see fit, or act in an incredibly stupid manner in regards to it.

http://www.libertyfilmfestival.com/libertas/wp-content/uploads/2006/08/Apocalypse_Now-1.jpg

Apocalypse Now (Coppola, 1979) - 5

"Sometimes you watch a film and it literally changes the way you perceive cinema, art and life. It might be a gradual process and take several viewings, but you understand, from the first time through, that you are witnessing a kind of storytelling genius which you have never seen before and, while being very entertaining, it just hits you in your psyche on a uniquely-deep level."

The above quote was written by Mark F as the introduction to his review on one of his favourite movies, Midnight Cowboy. I reckon it was a good quote to sum up the way I feel about Apocalypse Now. Few films have managed to burn their way into my consciousness with quite the same power and energy that Apocalypse Now did. Even though out of the nine times I've seen it so far, the first seven were the Redux edition (the only version available in Australia after its 2001 release - only after I picked up the Region 1 Dossier Edition in late 2007 did I start making the effort to watch the film's original cut), I'm still no less impressed whenever I put in it my player and take a trip into the jungle...

I can accept anyone telling me that Apocalypse Now is actually a really bad film, an overblown, nonsensical journey with no point save for whatever philosophy random characters gabble throughout the film. I know that, and I still love it for that reason. Of course it's going to be overblown and nonsensical - it's war. A blistering depiction of war - fire, explosions, destruction, gunfire, the whole catastrophe. All of it captured by Vittorio Stotaro's Oscar-winning cinematography - and you know what, I'm convinced he deserved it. Every frame looks like a work of art - crisp, colourful, smooth and quite simply stunning. It may not be the best-looking film but it comes close enough for me. The film's also accompanied by a haunting synthesiser score when it's not using 60s rock or Wagner operas, and I reckon the score's also rather underrated.

One other observation I'd like to make about the film regards the voice-over. I remember reading somewhere that Willard's narration was added "as an after-thought", and as a result I'm constantly wondering how the film would've worked if Coppola had excised the narration altogether and left the audience to piece together the exposition by peering over Willard's shoulder at the various documents he reads. It probably wouldn't have, but it's still an interesting thought, and I have to admit I'd want to see a version without voice-over just to see what it was like.

Powdered Water

03-03-09, 11:08 PM

"Charlie don't surf!"

Lennon

03-03-09, 11:20 PM

Is that film based on the poem at all, or does it share its name and nothing else?

Dante's Inferno was the first place Jimmy works at. Besides that there is a shot of Pop reading it (which is the long shot of hell.) So, no.

But I did see the game trailer, meh it kind of looks like a lot of other games mushed together. Plus I don't have a PS3.

TheDOMINATOR

03-03-09, 11:30 PM

Dante's Inferno was the first place Jimmy works at. Besides that there is a shot of Pop reading it (which is the long shot of hell.) So, no.

But I did see the game trailer, meh it kind of looks like a lot of other games mushed together. Plus I don't have a PS3.

Ah. Well, I'm pretty sure that these upcoming projects will be the first true adaptations of the poem. If they're done right and do the literature justice, they both have potential of excellence.

mark f

03-04-09, 12:51 AM

What Just Happened (Barry Levinson, 2008) 2.5+

http://media.decider.com/assets/images/events/movie/1296/what-just-happened_jpg_595x325_crop_upscale_q85.jpg

Robert De Niro was one of the producers of this adaptation of the Art Linson book about the insides of the Hollywood studio system. That may help contribute to why this film contains his best screen performance which I've seen since Ronin. Coincidentally, he plays producer Ben who is having problems with his two latest films. One is a Sean Penn thriller called Fiercely, by a Guy Ritchieish director (the wonderful Michael Wincott), which has just bombed at a test screening because Penn's dog gets killed in bloody closeup at the end. This doesn't make studio chief Lou (Catherine Keener) happy at all. The other film is about to start shooting with Bruce Willis, but Bruce has grown a full-length beard and claims it's his artistic right to wear it even though the studio says they paid him $20 million for a leading man, so if he doesn't shave, they'll pull the plug on the film and sue both Willis and Ben. To make matters worse, Ben also seems to be having problems getting over the latest of his broken marriages.

http://www.whatsonne.co.uk/images/page/full/deniro1.jpg

I can't quite explain why I don't give this film a higher rating. I think it's worth watching, it has some big laughs sprinkled throughout, Willis is good playing his own insane self and John Turturro is very funny as his agent who sounds like he may die from a fear-induced gag reflex. The story line involving the film Fiercely plays out humorously at the Cannes Film Festival, and the cast is superb, including Robin Wright Penn as one of Ben's exes and Stanley Tucci as a suspicious argyle socks wearer. Still, something just seems a bit lacking; even so I could just as easily rate this as a 3-, so somebody else tell me what they think.

Carnal Knowledge (Mike Nichols, 1971) 3.5

http://www.moviecrazed.com/images/nicholscarnal.jpg

This acidic social satire of what men really think about women was penned by cartoonist Jules Feiffer, and Jack Nicholson gets to play one of the all-time scumbags who makes the guys in In the Company of Men seem like Mother Teresa. At college during the 1940s, Jonathan (Nicholson) and his best friend Sandy (Art Garfunkel) constantly converse about what they want from women although neither is particularly experienced, or so Jonathan says. They both date and become infatuated with Susan (Candice Bergen), although Sandy's in love with her and Jonathan just wants to screw her. Thus sets the stage for following the men's lives throughout many women on up through the middle-to-late 1960s. Sandy honestly feels the need to have a full relationship with a woman, heart and soul, but all Jonathan seems to care about is their "T & A" and waiting for each relationship to fail so he can move on to the next doomed one, the most significant of which involves what seems to be Jonathan's "perfect woman" (Ann-Margret).

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Carnal Knowledge unites director Mike Nichols with DP Giuseppe Rotunno, and as the film begins, it often plays out as a period inverse of The Graduate. Initially, the soundtrack is filled with the best dance music of the WWII era, and there is plenty of witty dialogue, camerawork and acting. As the film progresses, it gets far darker and reveals the full agenda of both showing how men put down women and how these filmmakers will try to castrate those who deserve it. Jonathan spends half of the movie talking about how every woman who loves him wants to bust his balls. It might not be a light evening of entertainment, but it's still powerful and, I dare say, entertaining.

Australia (Baz Luhrmann, 2008) 3

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OK, some people love and some people hate Luhrmann's style. I probably fall somewhere in the middle. In spite of his in-your-face staging, I tend to find his films entertaining, especially since there's usually the bottom line of a romance to smooth things over for those who can't get past all his visual and editorial flamboyance. This film begins with several editing flaws (I mean to say that the editing style is just annoying) and the film seems to exist in some alternate movie universe which would never had passed muster at Warner Bros. with Errol Flynn starring. Yet, even so, this "historical" film about what happened in Australia, both concerning the "Lost Generation" of aborigine children and WWII, still delivers enough "old-fashioned entertainment", especially in the romance department (my wife says it's "VERY romantic"), that it's certainly watchable for those who don't believe they're above an overblown, melodramatic, overstuffed, special effects extravaganza. To tell you the truth, the film which Australia most reminds me of is Pearl Harbor, but I like that film more than most do, even if I've only watched it once. It's just that Australia has Jack Thompson, Bryan Brown and Davil Gulpilil (a national treasure), so I'll certainly cut it some slack against those who want to tighten the rope enough to hang Luhrmann & Co.

Religulous (Larry Charles, 2008) 3

http://img5.myimg.de/Religulous20084c9c0.jpg

I'll admit that I'm not really a fan of Maher. By that, I don't mean that I don't like him; I just have never really followed his career that much. However, I'll also say that he's able to make an equal-opportunity insultathon which rivals Larry Charles' previous film, Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, for big laughs and a collection of deadpan disapproval by real people. I appreciate what Maher tries to do here; everyone should examine their beliefs and attempt to "prove all things", and it's obvious that many of the "Christians, Jews, Muslims, Crackpots" should get skewered for some of their backward thinking, or perhaps, just plain non-thinking. Yet, Maher doesn't quite come off as the rational flipside of the wackos he ridicules. Maher keeps saying that he doesn't know the answers, but when he "sounds" so much more "wise and knowledgable" that his interviewees, he comes across as a person who is disingenuous. He does wrap up his film with what I find a powerful statement against organized religion, especially in the way it's used in many countries today, but Maher never once even has the guts to say that "when you die, that's it, you're dead, permanently". I would have more respect for him as a serious seeker of the truth if he just said that, but he seems to try to hedge his bets. Even so, there's no denying that this movie is damn funny for several reasons. I just don't think it's a "Revelation".

[B]The 10th Victim (Elio Petri, 1965) 3

http://www.scifi-movies.com/images/d/dixiemevictime1965film/affiche.jpg

Elio Petri, the Communist satirist of Cold War/Vietnam War-era Italy, reached his peak in 1970 with Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion where he almost predicted Watergate. This earlier film is equally satiric in that it depicts a futuristic world (seemingly socialist) without war. Instead of all-out war between nations, individuals can take out their aggressions by signing up for the worldwide game of "kill-or-be-killed". Each time you kill or avoid being killed in the game, you win money and gain fame. The object is to kill your prey five times and avoid being killed by your hunter five times (this involves killing said hunter each time). If you succeed all 10 times , you become a "Decathlete". In this film, the key players are American Caroline Meredith (Ursula Andress) who needs one last kill to become a Decathlete, and Roman Marcello (Marcello Mastroianni) who's about to enter his seventh life-or-death mission. Marcello has a crapload of baggage involving ex-wives and jealous girlfriends, and he seems almost suicidal as the next game begins. However, as things play out, both killers find themselves strangely attracted to each other, so it becomes difficult to tell what will finally happen, no matter how many twists and turns the plot takes.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MdpphCZMDh4/RdvOWnzXuMI/AAAAAAAAAFc/aZ1_m0wgJd8/s400/The+10th+Victim+-+Front+Cover.jpg

The 10th Victim isn't the best film you'll ever see, but it's amazing how much it'll make you think about reality TV, the future, why certain movies SHOULD be remade (Not Total Recall, for godssake! My daughter wants to remake this ASAP), the Battle of the Sexes, and in this film's case specifically, how somebody could compose a musical score just as spaced out as one of Ennio Morricone's weirdest. If you're ever lucky enough to see Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion (it's currently unavailable on DVD), you'll quickly notice the completely-bizarre Morricone score. This film's score sounds exactly like Morricone, but no, it's by Piero Piccioni, who apparently never worked with Morricone. However, fans of The Big Lebowski can hear Piccioni's music ("Traffic Boom") for it right here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd0CXFVmLGI

mark f

03-04-09, 12:56 AM

http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n157/joshm9393/Dante.jpg

Dante's Inferno (Harry Lachman,1935) 2.5

Not sure why I had this one set on my DVR. I'm not enitierly sure who Spencer Tracy was (I think I've heard the name before.) I've never read the poem (I kind of want to though.) But something possessed me to record it and watch it. It was pretty meh.

It has to be the most mislabeled movie ever. I'm not sure why it's named Dante's Inferno, as it's the place he started, and the one "reading" (aka really long shot of hell) felt really out of place. I would just take out the hell stuff, and add more about the rise, and fall, of James Carter. But they didn't, so only watch when there's nothing else on and you're bored.

Very interesting. I would probably have tossed the entire film except for the Hell sequences, and I give it a 2!

http://www.geocities.com/rmm413/TRACY.jpg

linespalsy

03-04-09, 12:33 PM

The 10th Victim (Elio Petri, 1965) 3

http://www.scifi-movies.com/images/d/dixiemevictime1965film/affiche.jpg

Elio Petri, the Communist satirist of Cold War/Vietnam War-era Italy, reached his peak in 1970 with Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion where he almost predicted Watergate. This earlier film is equally satiric in that it depicts a futuristic world (seemingly socialist) without war. Instead of all-out war between nations, individuals can take out their aggressions by signing up for the worldwide game of "kill-or-be-killed". Each time you kill or avoid being killed in the game, you win money and gain fame. The object is to kill your prey five times and avoid being killed by your hunter five times (this involves killing said hunter each time). If you succeed all 10 times , you become a "Decathlete". In this film, the key players are American Caroline Meredith (Ursula Andress) who needs one last kill to become a Decathlete, and Roman Marcello (Marcello Mastroianni) who's about to enter his seventh life-or-death mission. Marcello has a crapload of baggage involving ex-wives and jealous girlfriends, and he seems almost suicidal as the next game begins. However, as things play out, both killers find themselves strangely attracted to each other, so it becomes difficult to tell what will finally happen, no matter how many twists and turns the plot takes.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MdpphCZMDh4/RdvOWnzXuMI/AAAAAAAAAFc/aZ1_m0wgJd8/s400/The+10th+Victim+-+Front+Cover.jpg

The 10th Victim isn't the best film you'll ever see, but it's amazing how much it'll make you think about reality TV, the future, why certain movies SHOULD be remade (Not Total Recall, for godssake! My daughter wants to remake this ASAP), the Battle of the Sexes, and in this film's case specifically, how somebody could compose a musical score just as spaced out as one of Ennio Morricone's weirdest. If you're ever lucky enough to see Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion (it's currently unavailable on DVD), you'll quickly notice the completely-bizarre Morricone score. This film's score sounds exactly like Morricone, but no, it's by Piero Piccioni, who apparently never worked with Morricone. However, fans of The Big Lebowski can hear Piccioni's music ("Traffic Boom") for it right here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd0CXFVmLGI

I started watching The 10th Victim last night, and really liked the 30 or so minutes I saw of it (but was too tired to finish it and wanted to give my full attention), perhaps even more than Investigation, so far. Unfortunately the video store I rented Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion from recently closed so I don't know when I'll get to see that again, but both of these are good. Thanks for the recommendation.

I also have Carnal Knowledge in my netflix queue but I think I have to be in the right mood to handle something that caustic-sounding so I'm waiting until I'm ready for that one.

honeykid

03-04-09, 10:51 PM

The 10th Victim (Elio Petri, 1965) 3

http://www.scifi-movies.com/images/d/dixiemevictime1965film/affiche.jpg

The 10th Victim isn't the best film you'll ever see, but it's amazing how much it'll make you think about reality TV, the future, why certain movies SHOULD be remade

Strange, but that's the first thing I said to myself after I saw The 10th Victim. Finally, here's a film that should be remade and you just know it'll never happen. :(

Also, thanks for the heads up on Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion. I'd not heard of it before. I'll keep an eye out for it from now on. :)

MovieMan8877445

03-05-09, 12:31 AM

Dawn Of The Dead (2004) - 5

"Hell is overflowing, and Satan is sending his dead to us. Why? Because, you have sex out of wedlock, you kill unborn children, you have man on man relations, same sex marriage. How do you think your God will judge you? Well friends, now we know. When there is no more room in hell, the dead will walk the earth. "

This is probably the best quote of the movie; I just had to post it, because I just find this quote so amazing. It fits perfectly for Dawn Of The Dead, and I'm quite glad they decided to include it in the movie. Anyways, this is my all-time favorite zombie movie that I've seen so far; actually it may even be my favorite horror movie of all-time as well. I actually think this is the very first horror movie that I ever saw back in 2004. I didn't like horror movies too much back then, because they always seemed to scare me; I quite love them now, and I have no idea why ever thought they were so scary. I really just love the paranoia feel that this had; Zack Snyder just really seemed to catch it so well. The music has a lot to do with paranoia feel, namely the 'Get Down With The Sickness' scene. The opening credits seemed to show this very well too; I actually think Dawn Of The Dead may have the best opening credits sequence ever.

CJ was my favorite character in the movie; I mean at first he was kind of an *******, but as the movie progessed I just liked his character so much more. He is actually a pretty good actor; he should be in some more movies, so far I've only seen him in this and Changeling. After watching Matt Fewer in this, I think he'll do great as Moloch in Watchmen; I mean his ears are already sort of pointy by themselves, I really just noticed that tonight while watching it. This is, and will probably always be, my favorite movie from Zack Snyder; I doubt Watchmen will be able to top my love for this, even if I love the graphic novel almost more than anything. Snyder is such an underrated director though; he gets way too much crap for his use of slow-motion, which this has none of.

http://www.best-horror-movies.com/image-files/dawn-of-the-dead-2004-zombies-2.jpg

Powdered Water

03-05-09, 12:47 AM

Lost Boys: The Tribe (PJ Pesce-2008) 2

This flick was so mediocre I should probably rate it lower. My wife liked it though so I guess that's good for something yeah? I don't know. This flick was just so unnecessary you know? I mean, the original wasn't a masterpiece or anything but I've enjoyed it several times over the years and I've always really dug this song:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4h1GBmXpuxw

So, this is supposed to be a sequel. I don't now why really, other than it has the same title and Corey Feldman is in it. But other than that it has virtually nothing to do with and lacks any of the charm of the first film. Plus they remade the song the The Tribe did so well and played it in this new version. Pfft. Ridiculous, says I. God forbid you could maybe just find another tune. So basically I'm giving it a 2 because it did have two really nice boobies in it... which was nice. ;)

Step Up 2: The Street (Jon Chu-2008) 3.5

Look, its no secret that I am in the bag for movies that have dancing and ridiculous love stories or "messages". So yeah, I just got around to watching this flick and it was pretty terrific! It was quite a bit better than the first installment which was almost unwatchable (and that's really saying something for me). And the lead girl was just a super little cutie and boy could she move. I also really enjoyed most of the dance numbers. Very well put together, I enjoyed them muchly. Do see, if you're into dance flicks, but skip the first Step Up if you know what's good for you.

Mrs. Darcy

03-05-09, 09:44 AM

Notorious 4

I saw this movie on the big screen at the Arclight in Hollywood last night. AFI is doing a series of Hitchcock films, and I thought I'd see this. My first observation is that this film was more enjoyable with a group of people that had also seen the film. There's something exciting about sharing that experience with others. We knew when the suspenseful parts were, we all hated Mrs. Sebastian, we all whispered the fatefull words Alicia says to Dev when he comes to see her after she doesn't show for a meeting. It was fantastic.

The next observation I made was that this movie has a lot of humor in it. the relationships between Alex and his mother, and Dev and Alicia, lend themselves to laugh out loud moments. I hadn't picked up on it as thoroughly during my home viewings, and maybe being in a group made me more aware that aspect of the film.
https://www.moma.org/images/collection/FullSizes/F334.jpg

Alicia Hubermann (Ingrid Bergman) watches her father go to prison, and because she refused to get involved with her father's plans, she is later solicited by the U.S. government via Devlin (Cary Grant) to do some work for them on a 'big case'. Alicia agrees without knowing what she's getting into. She and Dev hang out and get to know each other while awaiting orders. Alicia has a reputation as being 'that' kind of girl, and the government thinks she'll be perfect as a mistress to Alex Sebastian, a man who knew her and her father and had a desire for her. She can get information to them that can help them break the case they're on. Only, Alicia and Dev have fallen in love.

Dev tells her of the plan and asks her what she wants to do. She asks Dev why he didn't tell his bosses she wasn't that kind of girl anymore. He tells her it's her choice, a conversation ensues, and it doesn't go well. She finally agrees to get chummy with Alex.

Alex and Alicia meet up and he's as smitten as he used to be. She gets accepted into his circle easily, except by Mother Sebastian, who is critical of every girl her boy takes up with. Alicia updates Devlin weekly about evil Germans and secret meetings, and they banter back and forth, he alluding to her ability to 'make friends easily', and she acting like the girl she used to be so he can't see how he hurts her. At the race track one day, Alex sees Alicia with Devlin and in a fit of pique, says they must get married for her to prove she has no feelings for Dev. She tells the agents, and they say, "Go for it." So, not getting any feedback from Dev, she marries Alex.

The rest of the movie has intrigue and suspense as Alicia tries to stay alive in a house where they discover who she is and what she's doing, and are determined to get rid of her.

A very good thriller. A very good love story.

B-card

03-05-09, 09:52 AM

The Unborn(David S. Goyer 2008)-Nice chick,bad movie 2

Halloween(John Carpenter 1978)-well it was better than the 4th part I don't get it how he survived after a stabbing, 4-5 gunshots and a free fall otherwise we won't have the sequels :D 3.5

Iroquois

03-05-09, 09:53 AM

MovieMan8877445

03-05-09, 05:53 PM

Considering such a glowing review, I sort of regret passing up the chance to catch this at a special screening earlier tonight. Oh, well, live and learn.

Oh, that sucks. If you do ever get another chance to see it sometime though, I'd recommend checking it out because it really is a great movie.

Justin

03-05-09, 07:00 PM

Dawn of the Dead was a great remake. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I agree with the opening credits scene - awesome work.

meatwadsprite

03-05-09, 07:09 PM

I hate Snyder's Dawn of the Dead , such an unnecessary remake - characters are very unlikable , the social commentary is dumbed down , and for all the effort that may have went in to it's visual style - it still doesn't look near as good as the original.

It's Romero's masterpiece turned into bland commercialized entertainment. (It is however 100 times better than Romero's newer Land of the Dead)

Movieman I highly recommend that you check out the original.

Justin

03-05-09, 08:38 PM

Characters are not always likable, and shouldn't be. Snyder wasn't aiming for a "social commentary" - because let's face it, the social commentary was never that "smart" to begin with. Anyone can see the obvious symbolism and social critique - it just isn't complex

That isn't to say I don't love Romero's original, however.

MovieMan8877445

03-05-09, 08:53 PM

Movieman I highly recommend that you check out the original.

I saw it when I was much younger, but I can't really remember it at all. I've been trying to find it at some of my DVD stores around me; like Best Buy, Barnes and Noble, etc., but no place seems to have it. Not even the local DVD store around me doesn't seem to have it; I hope I can just find it sometime soon.

meatwadsprite

03-05-09, 08:55 PM

Swan

03-05-09, 09:01 PM

I don't think the remake is that bad but I agree that the original is 10000x better.

Justin

03-05-09, 09:02 PM

Not true. We care about the trials the characters are going through - not every character needs to be likable in the strictest sense, meatwadsprite. We care about the various phases of being that the characters are falling through. How they are going about from one point to another is what makes it interesting.

It just isn't complex. Any 13 year old could figure it out at first glance. I'm not saying it's completely stupid, because that would be untrue. Romero's "view" of society is not something unique, nor is it profound. Subtlety is important to me, and truly skilled filmmakers and artists can achieve it. Romero is talented, but his views on society are not complex - nor are they stupid.

MovieMan8877445

03-05-09, 09:18 PM

Well for a movie that completely hinges on the viewer's care for the survivors , I think some of them should be likable - or at least believable. And what's wrong with obviousness of the originals opinions on society ? Making them more subtle doesn't make them any more important , Romero's Dawn raises a hundred questions to every one in Snyder's - which cares less about it's people than it's running zombies.

There were plently of characters that were pretty likeable, IMO; Ana, Michael, and CJ in the second half of the movie are the main ones that come to mind. I don't know what you're talking about in your last sentence though; in Snyder's version, there was much more focus on the characters rather than the zombies. Most of the movie took place showing the characters in the mall; we actually don't see the zombies all that much, until the ending that is.

Iroquois

03-05-09, 09:32 PM

There were plently of characters that were pretty likeable, IMO; Ana, Michael, and CJ in the second half of the movie are the main ones that come to mind. I don't know what you're talking about in your last sentence though; in Snyder's version, there was much more focus on the characters rather than the zombies. Most of the movie took place showing the characters in the mall; we actually don't see the zombies all that much, until the ending that is.

Regardless, when it comes to characters the original works better. The original only has four characters as opposed to the dozen or so survivors in the remake. By building them up so much (and not using them as zombie food), there's significant shock when the first one of them gets bitten and eventually dies (said character dies at around the 1 hour 30 minute mark - by this point in most horror films the majority of the cast is dead and in some cases the film has already finished). Then the film goes on for another half hour and really depicts the shock of depression that washes over the other three members as the brutal truth of what's happened to their lives sinks in a little further. In the remake, a similar thing also happens, but the characters opt to risk their safety by heading for an island that may or may not exist (and anyone who's seen the end credits of the remake knows what happens) rather than remain in the mall - a decision I've always regarded as foolish but understood within the context of the film.

When it comes to ratings, Snyder's version gets a 3 from me and Romero's gets a 4. I reckon it's highly unlikely to change, as I'm working off the last time somebody brought up Snyder's version and I watched both versions to be sure.

Used Future

03-05-09, 09:49 PM

http://www.grindhousedatabase.com/images/thumb/Godtoldmeto.jpg/300px-Godtoldmeto.jpg

God Told Me To (Larry Cohen 1976) 3+
This is a really intriguing B-movie with Tony Lo Bianco playing a police detective (Lt. Nicholas) investigating a spate of motiveless killings across New York. Beginning with a sniper picking off pedestrians from a water tower, we witness similar unprovoked attacks on the public - including the young Andy Kaufman shooting up a police parade - in each case the perpetrator stating that God told me to. Soon detective Nicholas is knee deep in bodies, police cover ups, an alien abduction plot, and dope dealing gangsters from Harlem; all whilst battling it out with a hermaphroditic Christ like figure with powers of mind control!!!

http://deeperintomovies.net/journal/image09/godtoldmeto4.jpg

This is the usual Cohen hotchpotch of outlandishly fun ideas executed in a somewhat muddled, slapdash manner. I like Larry Cohen's films a lot (the eight I've seen anyway) but have to confess that his films often look rushed and unfinished. God Told Me To is no exception with ragged editing, and a confusing narrative style that sometimes appears to be missing entire scenes of exposition. That doesn't mean it's worthless though, not a chance, Cohen always gets great performances from his leads and Tony Lo Bianco is suitably intense here. The film whilst a little incoherent is still interesting enough to make for compelling viewing and has some very effective scenes of horror and suspense. Not least of these is Bianco's pool hall encounter with a group of black hoods in Harlem, and a knife attack sequence on a stairway that harks back to Hitchcock's Psycho. Some of the low budget effects are also very inventive making this something of a rough diamond for fans of B-movies. Cool.

http://www.blue-underground.com/boxcovers/BU1003DVD_m.jpg
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_GbtM-aVze1A/R2dWVDeEYII/AAAAAAAAGf0/gtyufHm39Io/BU1003DVD-2.jpg
Bone (Larry Cohen 1972) 4+
This is Cohen's little seen debut feature which flopped terribly on it's initial release -- the studio couldn't find a target audience and tried to market it as Blaxploitation; when that failed they re-titled it Housewife and put it on the drive-in circuit to a similar disinterested response. Ironically Bone is probably one of Cohen's best films, it's certainly the most coherent in terms of editing and narrative that I've seen. The film is actually a smart black comedy/satire of social, racial and class stereo-types that features three exceptional performances from Yaphet Kotto, Joyce Van Patten and Andrew Duggan.

Bone is set in the rich suburb of Beverly Hills beginning with Bill (Duggan) a middle aged materialistic car dealer, and his bored wife Bernadette (Van Patten) sunbathing by their pool. From nowhere a young black man (Kotto) appears and proceeds to remove a dead rat stuck in the pool drain. Introducing himself as Bone he soon makes it clear that he intends to rob the couple and threatens to rape Bernadette if they don't cooperate. Whilst rifling through Bill's business papers however Bone uncovers evidence of secret bank accounts and legal documents that infuriates Bernadette. Finding no money Bone sends Bill into town on his own to make a withdrawal from the bank, assuring him that Bernadette will be raped and killed should he not return. With Bill gone, and his wife furious Bone actually ends up seducing her and agrees to help plot a revenge...

I can see why Bone would have been an extremely hard sell back in 1972. For one thing the film doesn't fit neatly into any particular genre, it's certainly not exploitation or 'blaxplotation' (as the picture above might lead you to believe) it's neither a straight comedy or a thriller either. It is extremely witty and entertaining though, and has a deliciously dark satirical edge that sucks you right in. Kotto and Van Patten in particular are sensational with sparks really flying in the films standout scene; Bone's threat of rape and eventual seduction of Bernadette. The film also takes intelligent swipes at shallow nouveau riche lifestyles, advertising, gender roles and of course racial stereo-types. It's intelligent, witty, charming, disturbing, very hip, and has a great often psychedelic soundtrack. Bone deserves rediscovery and also serves as a perfect example of what a great filmmaker Larry Cohen could have been, instead of just a good one.

MovieMan8877445

03-05-09, 10:00 PM

Regardless, when it comes to characters the original works better. The original only has four characters as opposed to the dozen or so survivors in the remake. By building them up so much (and not using them as zombie food), there's significant shock when the first one of them gets bitten and eventually dies (said character dies at around the 1 hour 30 minute mark - by this point in most horror films the majority of the cast is dead and in some cases the film has already finished). Then the film goes on for another half hour and really depicts the shock of depression that washes over the other three members as the brutal truth of what's happened to their lives sinks in a little further. In the remake, a similar thing also happens, but the characters opt to risk their safety by heading for an island that may or may not exist (and anyone who's seen the end credits of the remake knows what happens) rather than remain in the mall - a decision I've always regarded as foolish but understood within the context of the film.

When it comes to ratings, Snyder's version gets a 3 from me and Romero's gets a 4. I reckon it's highly unlikely to change, as I'm working off the last time somebody brought up Snyder's version and I watched both versions to be sure.

Yeah, I've seen the end credits; I liked how they did that. I really hope they don't decide to do a sequel to it, I'd be pretty upset if they did decide to do one for it. I don't think it was a foolish idea to try and leave the mall to attempt to make it to the supposed island; I mean if they stayed in there any longer it wouldn't be long before they begin to start losing their minds. They wouldn't have lasted much longer in the mall anyways, because they had to run out of food sooner or later. Andy was actually close to starving, but then again he wasn't one of the characters in the mall; he was actually the only 'important' charatcter in the movie that wasn't in the mall.

I still hope to finally be able to re-watch the original sometime soon. I doubt my opinion on the remake will change at all, just because of how much I love the remake.

honeykid

03-05-09, 10:06 PM

Lost Boys: The Tribe (PJ Pesce-2008) 2

This flick was so mediocre I should probably rate it lower. My wife liked it though so I guess that's good for something yeah?

So, this is supposed to be a sequel. I don't now why really, other than it has the same title and Corey Feldman is in it. But other than that it has virtually nothing to do with and lacks any of the charm of the first film.

So, if your wife wants to see the next sequel, will she be watching it alone?

TheDOMINATOR

03-05-09, 10:50 PM

The Dark Knight - 5

http://www.herorealm.com/images/Reviews/TheDarkKnightBlu-Ray.jpg

This was the first time I've watched The Dark Knight since I first saw it in theaters several months ago. Originally, I gave it a 4.5, but after tonight's viewing experience, I've bumped it up to that revered perfect score. I was completely blown away. Not only by the story and everything else the film contains, but I saw The Dark Knight on Blu-ray this time around, and that was BY FAR the most awesome Blu-ray movie I've watched to date; it pushed the technology to its limits. The story of the movie blew me away, but the picture quality and the audio on Blu-ray format blew me away ten-fold.

What an amazing experience. The final scene--Com. Gordon's final words--made goosebumps crawl over my entire body. Wow. I'm currently in the process of compiling my 100 favorite films in order of how much I like them, and--after tonight--I have some reorganizing to do.

Captivity - 3.5

http://z.about.com/d/movies/1/0/S/O/P/captivityposter.jpg

From its plot description and/or the vibe it gives off (or may give off), Captivity may seem "cheesy" or just flat-out stupid, but after watching it, I've learned otherwise. The opening sequence starts it right off with a thrilling, totally engrossing scene in which we are acquainted with the film's unrelenting graphic nature. The antagonist and the various tortures he undergoes with his victims throughout the movie are gut-wrenching, and the violence is pulled off in such a way that it never gives off that "cheesy" vibe, at least not to me.

The film's ending is pretty unrealistic, but--at the same time--a very cool concept that can be thoroughly enjoyed if you keep in mind that what you've just watched was a horror movie.

Overall, Captivity is a visceral horror film that's not without its share of flaws and minor plot-holes, but stands up well against its image. I liked it a lot.

MovieMan8877445

03-06-09, 12:32 AM

Lady In The Water - 5

M. Night Shymalan's amazingly underrated storytell masterpiece. Every other time I have watched this I always gave it usually like a point less; I don't know what it was with this viewing, but I'm completely blown away right now. I take back everything I've said about Unbreakable and Signs being my two favorite movies from M. Night Shymalan, neither of them even compare to how amazing Lady In The Water is. Shymalan is just an amazing storytelling; I actually think this may have one of the best, maybe the best, story ever told, it comes very close to Watchmen's story, but it doesn't quite pass it. Right from the very first scene when you're basically introduced into the whole story of Lady In The Water; it's just an amazing fantasy story. I do say that this has the most beautiful score I've ever heard; James Newton Howard is one of the best movie composer's ever, he's shown me that with the many movies he's scored. There are also just so many themes to Lady In The Water; love, courage, and hope are just a few of these themes.

There are also just so many characters thrown into one movie, and every character seems to have a purpose to the story. Vick is my personal favorite out of all the characters; it was great to see Shymalan in an acting role, rather than just directing. His character is also probably the most important to the story, IMO, but everyone probably has different views on that. I'm really glad that I decided to re-watch this tonight after not seeing it for so long though; as of right now, I'm considering putting it on my top 10 (which I haven't done for a while now). I do think that's it's always sort of deserved a spot in my top 10, but for some reason I could just never put it on there. I do wish I would've watched this before I did my top 100 though, because it would've got a much higer spot than it got. This movie gets so much crap that it doesn't deserve; I don't get why most people just seem to hate this movie so freaking much.

http://thecia.com.au/reviews/l/images/lady-in-the-water-9.jpg

Powdered Water

03-06-09, 12:41 AM

So, if your wife wants to see the next sequel, will she be watching it alone?

I doubt it, I've sat through worse. ;)

EDIT: I really like Lady in the Water too. One of Night's best flicks. :yup:

Ðèstîñy

03-06-09, 02:05 AM

Batman Begins (Limited Edition Gift Set) (2005)
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51SGFlc0%2BuL._SL500_AA240_.jpg

The Lost Boys (Two-Disc Special Edition) (1987)
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51DPWA33K0L._SL500_AA240_.jpg

Time After Time (1979)
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51YvBszy3oL._SL500_AA240_.jpg

Icons of Horror: Hammer Films (2-disc) (The Curse of the Mummy's Tomb / The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll / Scream of Fear / The Gorgon) (1964)
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518321QvSOL._SL500_AA240_.jpg

Justin

03-06-09, 05:03 AM

Watchmen (Snyder,2009) - 2.5

http://www.woolamaloo.org.uk/Rorschach%20in%20New%20York%20Watchmen%20movie%20blog.jpg

I'll expand more later, but for now I'll just say that I enjoyed it. I had a few problems with the acting, specifically Malin Akerman and Patrick Wilson's. Absolutely no connection was felt between them - they seemed lifeless. Also, the pacing was a little weird - the first half of the film was good, but Snyder tries to put too much into the film. It becomes awkward, and the narrative really suffers because of this. There may be such a thing as staying too close to the source material. Ultimately, the human element of Watchmen is lost because of the flimsy symbolism and convoluted plot. Both of these things can be nice touches, but when it begins to overpower the most important part of a film, I'll always lose touch with it.

But, otherwise a very disappointing film. Respectable effort, however.

Pyro Tramp

03-06-09, 08:44 AM

Watchmen- there's more in it's review thread but it's a sexed up take on the book, pasting in it's themes without really engaging with them and pasting in the violence from 300- 4

meatwadsprite

03-06-09, 08:59 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydocoaWpc2Y&feature=related

Sleezy

03-06-09, 11:36 AM

Lady In The Water - 5

This movie gets so much crap that it doesn't deserve; I don't get why most people just seem to hate this movie so freaking much.

I really wanted to like Lady in the Water, and was pretty excited when I first saw the teaser. His films always seemed to have a quaint, relatable bite to them, and this one looked like it was going to be the crescendo.

I don't hate the film, and in fact bought it recently because it's occasionaly a fun watch. But I think it's clear that Shyamalan's films have trended increasingly upward toward self-indulgence. This one is the worst. Besides the fact that he holds down an important role in the film, rather than just a cameo, Shyamalan also tries to eek out a lot of emotion on pretense.

For example, Cleveland is tortured by the loss of his wife and kids, but we never see them in flashbacks or prior scenes. (In Signs, however, the flashbacks of Graham with his wife gives special weight and validity to his pain.) It's classic telling, not showing.

I also tend to have trouble with the lumbering, methodic pace... how he keeps returning to the Asian girl for the next part of the story, and the long periods of intended "dread" with no real action taking place. Other little things hinder the film for me, such as Cleveland's unnecessary stuttering, or the cheesy figurative "this-is-a-movie" stuff with the film critic (where Shyamalan seems to be crawling out the screen telling you to laugh at his cleverness). This stuff adds up.

It just seems like Shyamalan has been falling back on elements of his films that have worked previously, but missed the mark because he didn't pay attention to why they worked. Much of Unbreakable is cheesy when you think about it, but it's counterbalanced by real-world connections (estrangement, divorce) and a permeating sadness throughout. There's a sadness in Lady in the Water, but you only see the surface layer: Shyamalan never uses his running time to delve deeply into the roots.

It's really a shame, too. I can picture this film with a little more depth and sublety, coupled with James Newton Howard's amazing score. That's the film I wanted to see. If Shyamalan had used the "bedtime story" as a more figurative, dreamlike overlay rather than a rigid model, and then infused in his characters some hard reality to run parallel (he's known for trying to parallel fantasy with reality), it would have been a much more effective picture.

But that's just me.

zedlen

03-06-09, 07:04 PM

Amelie.
I've seen most of Audrey Tautou movies but Id never seen Amelie. Most of my friends have seen it and told me about it. I agreed it looked like a great movie. Somehow I didn't see it until last week.I regret not seeing it. Its a excellent film about freedom and love. 5/5

Justin

03-06-09, 08:43 PM

I seem to be one of the few who can't stand Amelie....

rice1245

03-06-09, 08:52 PM

elaborate...

Sedai

03-06-09, 09:18 PM

I adore Amelie. Fantastic stuff.

Meanwhile:

Watchmen (Snyder, 2009) 4_5

http://www.daemonsmovies.com/fpss/slideshows/myslideshow/images/watchmen1.jpg

Earlier Holden stated the graphic novel was a genre blending masterpiece, while the film was not. I agree to a point, but I consider both to be flawed in their own way, although I agree the comic is a masterpiece on almost every level, while the film is not. Not that said flaws bother me in any way - I just need to acknowledge they exist as I pour my undying adoration on both. I am over the moon about both pieces, and I will enjoy them both for years to come.

I made an effort to go into the film in clear recognition that I was about to see a cinematic interpretation of the seminal comic and not a clinical, rigorous translation of the source material. With this mindset I was able to almost fully immerse myself in the flick, and enjoy it for what it was.

Yeah, almost. I was pulled out of the Watchworld a couple of times, especially during the rather wooden scene at the end between the Silk Spectres. I also felt a couple of the more graphic gore scenes were a bit much.

Alas, the film retained most of its, as Rorschach would phase it, uncompromising attributes, and I was moved emotionally multiple times. It was a great experience, and I shall be seeing it again soon.

Holden Pike

03-06-09, 09:30 PM

I seem to be one of the few who can't stand Amelie....
http://www.photobooth.net/movies_tv/img/amelie_02.jpg

The only explanation for one not adoring Amélie is that you have a skeevy, gaping hole where you heart should be (consult a physician immediately). And obviously you've never been anybody's little weasel. How sad.

Justin

03-06-09, 10:22 PM

elaborate...

I think it's style over substance for the most part. Amelie is also pretty sappy...

And thanks Holden - I'm sure I'll take that into consideration next time.

Lennon

03-07-09, 12:20 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIF_WdPUBFo
4
A little less good time around (dropped the +.) But this movie is just so damn awesome I don't think I could ever give it less than 4.

My review still stands HERE (http://www.movieforums.com/reviews/users/506408.html)

Justin

03-07-09, 12:35 AM

I was given a negative rep for an opinion? Pathetic.

honeykid

03-07-09, 01:23 AM

You're right Justin, it is. It's not like you bad-mouthed Drew Barrymore or anything like that. That I could understand. :yup:

Harry Lime

03-07-09, 02:52 AM

I was given a negative rep for an opinion? Pathetic.

Although I like the film, I didn't like that you got negative repped for that, didn't seem fair.

Loner

03-07-09, 02:59 AM

I think it's style over substance for the most part. Amelie is also pretty sappy...

And thanks Holden - I'm sure I'll take that into consideration next time.

You're the expert in style over substance.

rice1245

03-07-09, 03:17 AM

W. (2008) - 1.5

http://www.filmofilia.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/george-bush-w-movie-180.jpg

I am not a big Bush fan to begin with but c'mon...seriously? I thought it was unrealistic and boring and just a completely unnecessary waste of time for everybody involved with the production. The trailer looked so funny! That's the only reason i rented it but the only laughs i got was at Thandie Newton's performance

http://imgs.sfgate.com/c/pictures/2008/10/16/dd-w17_ph5_0499307985.jpg

Watchmen (2009) - 4+

http://media.filmschoolrejects.com/images/ozymandias.jpg

I don't think there's much to explain as to why i loved the movie since i loved the graphic novel. I really don't think that Snyder's style took away from the film at all but Ackerman's performance =\ didn't really like but i've never really liked the character either so i could just be confusing emotions. And Jackie Earl Haley was amazing as usual, the perfect casting. I really felt like watching the movie was like reading literature and i love when movies can do that to you.

The Magnificent Seven (1960) - 4

http://www.filmreference.com/images/sjff_03_img0983.jpg

I haven't seen Seven Samauri but i think i will now because i really enjoyed this movie. I was super impressed by the action and actually rewound the part where Chico pulls the guy off the moving horse and then gets on the horse...i dunno but it looked really cool! and there were actually a couple getting on moving horses sequences that were awesome and that was just some of the better gunfighting i've seen in westerns. And fun fact, i watched the special features on 'Making the Magnificent Seven' which was really interesting and Steve Mcqueen would be playing with his hat in the background in almost every scene Yul Brynner was in in order to steal the attention away from him and he'd just keep moving so people would look at him. Thought that was interesting.

Howl's Moving Castle (2006) 5

http://thecia.com.au/reviews/h/images/howl-s-moving-castle-7.jpg

I loved it SO much! I want to go watch it again and it just ended. Miyasaki is my director of the month. Meaning he's my favorite director. But it changes so often that i'm just gonna say my favorite for this month :yup:

Iroquois

03-07-09, 04:47 AM

http://www.photobooth.net/movies_tv/img/amelie_02.jpg

The only explanation for one not adoring Amélie is that you have a skeevy, gaping hole where you heart should be (consult a physician immediately). And obviously you've never been anybody's little weasel. How sad.

Having a heart is almost as overrated as Amélie.

zedlen

03-07-09, 06:52 AM

I understand. Amelie does lay it all down pretty thick its understandable that some people at least find it too much. It is a "simple" and "pretty" movie but I find there in its elegance.

Justin

03-07-09, 11:45 AM

You're the expert in style over substance.

I have no clue what you're talking about.

Although I like the film, I didn't like that you got negative repped for that, didn't seem fair.

I got another one, and insulted with a comment that doesn't make any sense. Awesome!

Used Future

03-07-09, 12:44 PM

I seem to be one of the few who can't stand Amelie....

Sorry Justin I respect your right to an opinion, but at the risk of 'pot-kettle' accusations this smacks of 'I'm trying to be edgy and different'. You've not really backed up the statement with any credible reason for not liking the film, and whilst I don't think it deserved negative rep, the post did strike me as slightly antagonistic.

I think it's style over substance for the most part. Amelie is also pretty sappy...

Once again I've no problem with you having an unpopular opinion, but why is Amelie style over substance? please elaborate. Personally I think the film has bags of substance, beautifully nuanced characters, and an endearing sense of magical sensitivity that shouldn't fail to warm the most cynical hearts. Yes the film is romantic and compassionate, but sappy? how could you fail to be moved in those climactic scenes? I'm genuinely interested in your explanation as I consider you to be someone with good taste.

Loner

03-07-09, 02:46 PM

I have no clue what you're talking about.

I got another one, and insulted with a comment that doesn't make any sense. Awesome!

You used the term style over substance, then you have no idea what I'm talking about?

Positive rep for giving an opinion, pathetic.

adidasss

03-07-09, 03:23 PM

You know you're kinda becoming annoying with the douche bag attitude. Chill out or get out...:|

Justin

03-07-09, 03:24 PM

Sorry Justin I respect your right to an opinion, but at the risk of 'pot-kettle' accusations this smacks of 'I'm trying to be edgy and different'. You've not really backed up the statement with any credible reason for not liking the film, and whilst I don't think it deserved negative rep, the post did strike me as slightly antagonistic.

Once again I've no problem with you having an unpopular opinion, but why is Amelie style over substance? please elaborate. Personally I think the film has bags of substance, beautifully nuanced characters, and an endearing sense of magical sensitivity that shouldn't fail to warm the most cynical hearts. Yes the film is romantic and compassionate, but sappy? how could you fail to be moved in those climactic scenes? I'm genuinely interested in your explanation as I consider you to be someone with good taste.

Antagonistic? Okay, if you say so. But I should apologize if anyone felt I was being "antagonistic" - not my intention, at all. I'm not one who "tries" to be edgy or different - or even is, I know what I like and what I don't like.

Style over substance - okay. Amelie has very weak characters - the characters were just not complicated, they were very simple. It resorts to a cheap sentimentality with the manipulative soundtrack. Way too many moments in Amelie where I found myself rolling my eyes. The style overpowers everything in the film - in fact, it's the only memorable aspect of the film. Amelie's concentration seems to be more in manipulation and silly characters, accompanied with a heavy reliance on style. As the film progressed, I became more aware of how hard Jeunet was trying to be "charming" and "sweet". Each moment in Amelie feels calculated and manipulated, rather than a "natural" moment. Amelie seemed trying desperately to get me - the viewer - to feel something, when it should come natural.

Amelie's soundtrack is the best example of a director attempting to manipulate the audience into caring. It isn't honest with its characters. I view films in a different way - of course my heart is always involved, but I don't allow a film to completely win me over because it's sweet and stylized. I didn't "hate" Amelie - far from it, in fact. I think it's incredibly well-made, but the characters are just too fake for me. I, for one, didn't notice any "substance" in Amelie - perhaps it's just me, though. However, there is much to like in Amelie and I can completely understand how someone could love it - after all, it is a sweet film. Just not one for me.

And I'm sure I'll receive a negative rep for this, as well - yet I'm being antagonistic.

Justin

03-07-09, 03:30 PM

You used the term style over substance, then you have no idea what I'm talking about.?

Positive rep for giving an opinion, pathetic.

No, I'm afraid I don't. I wouldn't have used the term if I wasn't aware of the definition. If anyone here is being antagonistic, it's you.

undercoverlover

03-07-09, 03:48 PM

Antagonistic? Okay, if you say so...

Style over substance - okay. The film has weak characters, and it resorts to a cheap sentimentality with the manipulative soundtrack. Way too many moments in Amelie where I found myself rolling my eyes. The style overpowers everything in the film - in fact, it's the only memorable aspect of the film. Amelie's concentration seems to be more in manipulation and silly characters, accompanied with a heavy reliance on style. As the film progressed, I became more aware of how hard Jeunet was trying to be "charming" and "sweet". Each moment in Amelie feels calculated and manipulated, rather than a "natural" moment.

Amelie's soundtrack is the best example of a director attempting to manipulative the audience into caring. It isn't honest with its characters. I view films in a different way - of course my heart is always involved, but I don't allow a film to completely win me over because it's sweet and stylized. I didn't "hate" Amelie - far from it, in fact. I think it's incredibly well-made, but the characters are just too fake for me. The characters were just not complicated - they were overly simple. I, for one, didn't notice any "substance" in Amelie - perhaps it's just me, though.

And I'm sure I'll receive a negative rep for this, as well - yet I'm being antagonistic.

While i may not agree with you wholeheartedly i can definitely see where you're coming from. I loved Amelie and i saw it after delaying it for many years. Yes i found it sentimental and sweet, sometimes overly,and i agree with you that sometimes it felt manipulated. But it's not supposed to be a natural film - it's a heightened, romantic sense of reality. If you can accept this kind of reality then it is easy to be swept away with Amelie. If not then its sweetness does become sickly.

Also, totally not down with neg reps for simple opinions on a film, explained or not.

zedlen

03-07-09, 05:25 PM

http://www.yowazzup.com/blog/images/awake-movie.jpg

Awake (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Awake_%28film%29) (2007)
I saw the opening scene on youtube somehow, it looked interesting, Hayden Christensen, Terrence Howard and Jessica Alba. I figured it must have gone unnoticed and unappreciated by the mainstream, as a lot of good movies do. So I watched it with no real expectations, not even sure what it was about. Beginning slowly, introducing you to characters and what felt like the plot I was still interested but by mid movie things changed, the suspense disappeared and it was replaced by confusion. Changing back and forward between themes and points of view to the point that your not sure whats going on. Clumsy, rushed and mostly pointless I wouldn't recommend Awake.
http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/2box.gif

Used Future

03-07-09, 05:55 PM

Antagonistic? Okay, if you say so. But I should apologize if anyone felt I was being "antagonistic" - not my intention, at all. I'm not one who "tries" to be edgy or different - or even is, I know what I like and what I don't like.

Style over substance - okay. Amelie has very weak characters - the characters were just not complicated, they were very simple. It resorts to a cheap sentimentality with the manipulative soundtrack. Way too many moments in Amelie where I found myself rolling my eyes. The style overpowers everything in the film - in fact, it's the only memorable aspect of the film. Amelie's concentration seems to be more in manipulation and silly characters, accompanied with a heavy reliance on style. As the film progressed, I became more aware of how hard Jeunet was trying to be "charming" and "sweet". Each moment in Amelie feels calculated and manipulated, rather than a "natural" moment. Amelie seemed trying desperately to get me - the viewer - to feel something, when it should come natural.

Amelie's soundtrack is the best example of a director attempting to manipulate the audience into caring. It isn't honest with its characters. I view films in a different way - of course my heart is always involved, but I don't allow a film to completely win me over because it's sweet and stylized. I didn't "hate" Amelie - far from it, in fact. I think it's incredibly well-made, but the characters are just too fake for me. I, for one, didn't notice any "substance" in Amelie - perhaps it's just me, though. However, there is much to like in Amelie and I can completely understand how someone could love it - after all, it is a sweet film. Just not one for me.

And I'm sure I'll receive a negative rep for this, as well - yet I'm being antagonistic.

Thanks Justin. Wow, never have I disagreed with an opinion like I do here:laugh:

First off I don't think there's anything 'cheap' about Amelie, and whilst the film is sentimental to a degree it never feels forced or overly manipulative in my view. Anyway surely all filmmakers are attempting to manipulate the audience to some extent in order to provoke varying emotional responses; Amelie just happens to do it very effectively. It's story driven though, and whilst some of the characters are caricatures, I still think they're very well drawn and beautifully acted. Surely the real clue is in the title, the film is partly a character study, and to have a whole cast of multi-layered complex characters would just be too distracting. Oh and yes I did think Tatou's character was multi-layered and complex:p

In terms of the style, yes it's very distinctive and memorable, but Amelie is intended as a fairytale and the visuals reflect that. I certainly don't subscribe to them being 'the only memorable aspect of the film'. You mean you've forgotten the wonderful scene in which Amelie hurriedly guides a blind man across the street whilst describing his surroundings? you've forgotten the ecstatic look on the man's face? Or story leading up to, and including the man in the phone box who finds his childhood mementos? I think those kind of scenes (along with many others) will stay with me forever, and were enhanced by the visual style rather than given a sickly sugar coating. The film is quirky and charming sure, but guilty of resorting to cheap sentimentality? surely not.

Regarding the soundtrack, I can think of much better examples of an overly slushy score that tries to 'manipulate the audience into caring'. Countless crappy American comedies do this, hell, The Curious Case of Benjamin
Button does it, Forrest Gump (which I love) does it; I certainly wouldn't put Amelie at the top of the list though. Ultimately I found the film moving because I fell in love with the character Amelie, her kooky good nature, sensitivity, and shyness. I really cared about her (like many others I'm sure) and wanted her to be happy which is what made the film so magical and special.

Ahhh well, I guess it all just boils down to personal taste, and I don't want to turn this into a tit-for-tat session. I can deal with the fact that you don't like Amelie even if I do think you're being a bit cold hearted...and well...nuts;) One man's turkey is another man's masterpiece as they say (not sure who, but they do:D). Thanks again for your explanation, I'll just finish by quoting the Dude and saying...

Well...that's just like...your opionion man.

Justin

03-07-09, 06:55 PM

The Shining (Kubrick,1980) - 5

http://www.best-horror-movies.com/images/The-shining-jack-in-maze.jpg

I realize I'm not the best at doing lengthy reviews, but not much needs to be said about The Shining, anyway. A stunning film to this day. Everything from the performances to the score is perfect. Not one flaw.

MovieMan8877445

03-07-09, 10:02 PM

Australia - 3

My rating has gone down quite a bit since I saw it in theaters, but I still enjoyed it. I liked how they decided to mix three genres together; adventure, love story, and war all into one movie. I feel that they didn't do them in the right order because the best part of the whole movie was the scenes during the war and that was the ending of the movie. That part really shined for me, and if most of the movie was like that my rating would probably be a point higher than it is now. The adventure part was pretty good, except it got a tad slow during it. The main thing I didn't like about the adventure part was that it took so long for the adventure to actually get started. The love story part was really just slow throughout the whole part; luckily this part was the shortest and didn't really last that long. The cinematography is amazing though; this definitely should've taken home an oscar for that. Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman had some good chemistry together though, which is one of the main things that actually drove the movie. Ultimately is was a good movie to watch, and I'd probably recommend it to anyone who's a fan of the three genres I mentioned. It's nothing that I'd recommend to go all out of the way to watch though.

http://www.awardsdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/nicole-kidman-vogue-july-2008-03.jpg

Justin

03-07-09, 10:09 PM

Europa (von Trier,1991) - 4

http://p9.p.pixnet.net/albums/userpics/9/2/118192/1207674965.jpg

A very interesting, avant-garde film from Lars. As a big fan of his, I've enjoyed almost all of his films. Europa is a weird mixture of Guy Maddin and Kafka. Altogether, a beautifully shot film (he shifts seamlessly between black and white and color) with one of the best third acts I've ever seen.

Recommended.

TheDOMINATOR

03-08-09, 12:08 AM

Deliverance - 4
(FIRST VIEWING)

http://neveryetmelted.com/wp-images/Deliverance.jpg

Deliverance wasn't quite what I expected. I don't mean that in a negative way--at least, not completely--but I need a bit longer to collect my thoughts on what I've just watched and to develop a truer rating. On one hand, it didn't seem like a whole hell of a lot happened during the course of the movie, but on the other hand, the few intense moments the film did contain were completely riveting and engrossing. I'll try to explain my issues:

1. During the entire course of the movie, there were only two encounters with the Mountain Men, and one of those two encounters was about five minutes long, probably less. Both of these scenes, especially the first, longer one, were completely intense and captivating. Now, why couldn't there have been at least one more, even two more scenes with different Mountain Men? I felt the film needed a bit more action than it contained to further its obvious ability to present intense action.

Maybe that's not a complaint, per-se; perhaps it's more of a personal wish. :cool:

2. Lewis was a fantastic character; a man who is in tune with nature and "ready for the hunt," but about half-way through the movie--and after only one showoff with a Mountain Man--he gets incompacitated and doesn't really do or say much for the rest of the film! I thought his character had a lot more potential to coincide with my first issue above.

Overall, I enjoyed it immensely (other than my couple of semi-minor issues). The scenery was amazing; I'm beginning to wish I held off and got it on Blu-ray rather than getting the DVD on sale like I did. But I'm extremely glad I finally watched this classic.

MovieMan8877445

03-08-09, 12:41 AM

The Color Of Money - 3.5

A pretty good sequel to a really great movie; it's like a jazzed up version of The Hustler. It focused a lot more on actually playing pool than the first one; the first one focused more on Paul Newman's character rather than actually playing pool. Martin Scorsese did a good job with this one, even if I still do consider it one of his weakest films. I actually totally forgot that it was directed by Scorsese while watching it, because it didn't really feel like any of his movies at all. It's been awhile since I've seen any of his movies though, so maybe I just forgot the feel that his movies have to them. Paul Newman did a great job as usual; he's seriously moving up my favorite actors list. I expect him to get pretty high on my list, but I don't expect him to pass Clint Eastwood. I could actually compare those two, because they did great throughout their entire career's, unlike how some actors begin to lose it as they go on; Al Pacino is a good example of this.

Tom Cruise did a really good job at playing the arogant pool student that doesn't use his brains; it seemed like the role was meant for him. I've never had a problem with Cruise though, I've always thought that he is a pretty good actor that gets a bunch of crap he doesn't really deserve. I really loved the last shot of the movie with Newman's last line though; it seemed like they were trying to set it up for another movie to come after The Color Of Money. I wouldn't have any problem with that; sadly it's impossible to do now that Newman died last year, and they couldn't do it withoout Newman. I'd definitely recommend that people check this out, but be sure to check out The Hustler first though because I think it really helps before watching this.

http://www.insidesocal.com/outinhollywood/,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,money01.jpg

Justin

03-08-09, 01:01 AM

Into the Wild (Penn,2007) - 5

http://www.thequietman.org/imagenes/Into%20the%20wild%20costa.jpg

Just a very well-made film. Fantastically shot (almost Christopher Doyle like), acted, and the music by Vedder was great. Eric Gautier's cinematography was great. He has shot Clean - another great film - and the film Intimacy, which I also enjoyed. I particularly liked the narrative, as it reminded me slightly of the elliptical narratives that largely drive Terrence Malick's films - who I am a big fan of. The acting was one aspect that really stood. Everyone was good, and everyone's relationships seemed almost palpable and completely truthful.

Recommended.

mark f

03-08-09, 01:04 AM

Random comments about the above (Note- you guys type too fast :cool:):

I just watched Australia again. The first time, I watched it with my wife Bre, and her two favorite genres are romantic adventures and murder mysteries, so she loved it, and she loves Hugh Jackman now more than ever. My daughter Sarah is 17 and really into creative writing and film, so she wondered why it had to be so long and predictable; however, she too thought the cinematography was excellent, at least when it wasn't ruined by an overabundance of "special" effects. Oh, she thought it was romantic too. I probably thought it was a little better than last time because it didn't quite irritate me as much as it did before (the herky-jerky editing at the beginning, the kid narrating, the idea that it's just a battle-of-the-sexes comedy, the occasional overracting, especially the Bad Guys). I'll still give it 3, but maybe a slightly higher one. Oh, Sarah was reminded of Pearl Harbor too, and I never mentioned it at all before.

I really enjoy the visuals in Europa, Zentropa here in the States. It was the first von Trier film I saw (before I saw The Element of Crime - I've missed a few of von Trier's early films), and it seemed languidly-hypnotic, especially Max von Sydow's repetitious narration. The plot was really quite unique too. I like Justin's comparison of the film to Guy Maddin, although I would have never seen that connection before I watched Maddin's My Winnipeg. I really need to watch it again with Sarah because the only von Trier Sarah has seen are from the 2000s, even though I own The Kingdom. My conditional rating for Europa is 3.5-.

Wow, Deliverance! I don't know if it's a generational thing or a literal thing or what, but I love Deliverance. When I think of adventure films which actually tell something strong about human behavior, I usually think of... no, surprisingly enough, I don't think of Herzog and his various thoughtful considerations, especially Aguirre which seems to pop into every "normal" film buff with a critical eye. I'm not dissing Aguirre, but I think of Deliverance (which came out the same year) and The Treasure of the Sierra Madre. Actually, I think a great thesis would be to do a comparison/contrast of Aguirre and Deliverance, but I'm not going to do it during this post.

I want to talk about Deliverance because its beautiful and brutal reality are intermingled with a poetic interpretation of how man interacts with nature. It's easy for me to interpret everything which happens in the film as literal, but it makes it far more complex and brilliant if its examined as a microcosm of "criminal justice" and a poetic examination of "what goes around comes around"; you screw with nature and it'll screw with you. I'll admit that the final ten minutes or so of Deliverance may seem anticlimactic compared to what's gone on before, but consider this: how could anything after what happened to those men on the river ever seem that significant and important again? All the men are forever scarred and impacted by their choices and what they seemingly had no choice in. Even so, there are sure a lot of Gothic horror and nightmarish imagery, even in the final act. Sure, the "mountain men" scenes are intense, but the white water canoe scenes are intense, "Dueling Banjos" is haunting, and Burt Reynolds' Lewis is one of the scariest drivers in film history. Anyway, I believe that the "mountain men" scenes seem to blind some viewers from the bigger pan of fish the film is trying to fry. Sure, Deliverance is all about the futility of machismo, just as it's about the absurd notion that man could ever really believe that he could try to control his environment and not get bitten in the ass. Even nowadays, Deliverance seems to be a visionary film ahead of its tiime, even though it's been proven to be quite prophetic and will probably only seem to become more so in the future.

zedlen

03-08-09, 03:39 AM

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk125/aaannie_/vlcsnap-1159637.png

The Elephant Man (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Elephant_Man_%28film%29) (1980) http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/5box.gif

I wasn't sure what I expected when I sat down to watch this, aware that it was going to be a big performance by Hurt but I didn't realise Anthony Hopkins has a lead role. It took me by surprise and enjoyed seeing one of his younger performances. Elephant Man is heart felt and a real human movie.

TheDOMINATOR

03-08-09, 07:14 PM

Excellently said, mark f. I will consider all the points you have presented during my next viewing of the film and, in doing so, see it from a different point of view and in a different light. Perhaps then, I will be able to truly comprehend it, but even to me now, it is truly a brilliant work of cinema.

Powdered Water

03-08-09, 07:20 PM

Ah, some fine 80's cheese...

Terror Train (Roger Spottiswoode-1980) 2.5

http://racksandrazors.com/Pics/terrortrainposter.jpg

The people that turn up in these flicks some times is such a trip. A young David Copperfield does a magic show in this. Maybe the only movie he's been in, I don't know. I'm to lazy to check. Jamie Lee Curtis brings her scream to this flick even though she doesn't unleash it until the end. There's really nothing "good" or interesting about this version of a "slasher" flick set on a train. There's no doubt who the killer is and there's no real drama. A bunch of folks die in relatively uncreative ways. I still enjoyed parts of it for what it was.

Howard the Duck (Willard Huyck-1986) 3.5

I should probably give this a higher rating because of the lovely little Lea Thompson but I'm trying to be all level headed and stuff...She was such a total super hottie during the 80's though.

http://media.comicmix.com/media/2008/12/24/howard-the-duck-5-20473807-std-2.jpg

Anyway, another one of those flicks that I will always love for one stupid reason or another. One of them is Tim Robbins and Jeffrey Jones. Both of whom were totally enjoyable as well.

Oh and what's not to love about a movie that not only has a Duck as the lead but also Duck **** (can I say Duck ****? Ah well, edit them out if you really feel the need...)

http://www.cinemademerde.com/howardduck-masturbating.gif

Rumor around the campfire is that this prime piece of Duck tail is, uh, you know... spending some time in her "happy place" if you follow. I think that's ridiculous, this is a kids movie for crying out loud! ;)

Silver Bullet (Daniel Attias - 1985) 3

I haven't seen this in years. I've forgotten how really pretty decent it is. I was so in the bag for all of King's stories that I think I really wrote it off awhile back because as per usual it isn't very true to the book. But now after many years have passed and I barely remember the story I found it to be a relatively well done Werewolf flick that is every bit as enjoyable as say, The Howling or Wolfen for example.

http://www.denofgeek.com/siteimage/scale/800/600/12959.png

There is some pretty good 80's effects in this movie and I wonder if this one will someday pass the mustard enough to be given a proper write up in UF's thread. I hope so. I'm not calling it a classic or anything. An American Werewolf in London seems to have that moniker all locked up for 80's Werewolf flicks and that's certainly fine by me. But this one here is definitely worth a look.

Godoggo

03-08-09, 07:43 PM

2. Lewis was a fantastic character; a man who is in tune with nature and "ready for the hunt," but about half-way through the movie--and after only one showoff with a Mountain Man--he gets incompacitated and doesn't really do or say much for the rest of the film! I thought his character had a lot more potential to coincide with my first issue above.[/spoilers]

Mark already said what needed to be said, but I am going to through my two cents in anyway. Deliverance is not an action movie at it's heart, and what happened to Lewis was necessary so we can see what happens as Ed is forced into the role that was formerly Lewis's.

I personally wouldn't have wanted to see any more of the mountain men. I think they did just enough to further the main character's story. Any more would have been gratuitous.

mark f

03-08-09, 08:01 PM

Re: PW

Terror Train was pretty bad, but it did have the gimmick of the murderer donning each victim's costume, plus, believe it or not, it was photographed by John Alcott!! (A Clockwork Orange, Barry Lyndon, The Shining), so I'd say your rating is spot-on. I'd say the same thing about your Howard the Duck rating; I admit the laughs are mostly crammed into the first part, but there are still plenty of funny, weird, screwy performances and twists throughout the film. It's not trying to be anything but entertainment, and I think the critics mostly lambasted it because it had a guy in a duck suit. So what, it either works or it doesn't, so don't get your feathers all in a bunch you pretentious scribes and expect it to be Fellini. I'd even agree with your rating for Silver Bullet (Three For Three!). I thought it was pretty scary, but it also had just the right balance of dark comedy, and I really liked Reverend One-Eye. :cool:

rice1245

03-08-09, 08:07 PM

I considered Deliverence to be more of a character study than an action film but thanks to the cover and no previous knowledge of the film i was expecting action and was pleasantly surprised. Although i too was offended at Burt Reynold's injuries i know it was necessary for the film like what Godoggo said above

And yeah everyday that passes by i dislike Australia more and more. And Nicole Kidman.

Powdered Water

03-08-09, 08:15 PM

Re: PW

I'd even agree with your rating for Silver Bullet (Three For Three!). I thought it was pretty scary, but it also had just the right balance of dark comedy, and I really liked Reverend One-Eye. :cool:

And how about ole Everett McGill? He was on a nice little run from about 1980 to about halfway through the 90's wasn't he? I think I enjoyed just about every character I saw him play. Especially, Stilgar (Dune-1984), Major Powers (Heartbreak Ridge -1986) and "Dad" in The People Under the Stairs. Not to mention all of his work in the brilliant Twin Peaks show and subsequent film.

B-card

03-08-09, 08:37 PM

Twilight(2008)-no wonder only women like it2

Waiting(2005)-extremely funny 4.5

Devils Advocate(1997)-Nice enjoyable Sunday evening movie :) 4

mark f

03-08-09, 08:42 PM

Devils Advocate(1997)-Nice enjoyable Sunday evening movie :) 4

You mean plenty of T&A?

rice1245

03-08-09, 08:48 PM

Twilight(2008)-no wonder only women like it

=o *offended*

Yoda

03-08-09, 08:53 PM

You mean plenty of T&A?
The Devil's Advocate = 3.

Connie Nielsen in The Devil's Advocate = 5.

mark f

03-08-09, 09:02 PM

It's always nice to know that Yoda can be moved. :cool: 900 years old and still "ticking"...

B-card

03-08-09, 09:21 PM

You mean plenty of T&A?
Indeed :) Plus I love listening to those religious crap about heaven and hell
Connie Nielsen in The Devil's Advocate = 5.
Curly long haired redhead-she is like a wet dream
=o *offended*

O come on every chick around here loves it.It's Robert this Robert that sh111t the guy is so pale in real life too plus he looks like a junky.Its a love story with vampires I might as well go watch Underworld is way better plus it has werewolves, Kate Beckinsale ooo and what was the other thing, aa Action.
Can't believe that it's going to be a Quadrilogy.

Used Future

03-08-09, 09:48 PM

http://famousmonstersoffilmland.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/burrowers-dvd.jpg

The Burrowers (J.T. Petty 2008) 3.5
I've just been telling Powdered Water about this in a PM and thought I might as well tab it quickly and spread the word as it were.

The Burrowers is a straight to dvd low budget horror western that was originally written by Petty as a seven part TV series back in 2007. The story revolves around a search party looking for a missing family of homesteaders they believe were taken by Indians. Led by Clancy Brown's old hand John Clay, the group soon encounter a sadistic army commander Henry Victor (Doug Hutchinson from The Green Mile) and his troops also looking for missing persons. Though when Victor begins torturing an Indian prisoner for answers, and mysteriously loses men in the night, Clay's group decide to go their own way...

http://www.revolutionsf.com/bb/weblogs/upload/17/129805286048df0603b5575.jpg

This film really impressed me with some truly beautiful photography reminiscent of Andrew Dominik's The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford. It plays primarily as a western building slowly with a sustained atmosphere of tension, and good performances all round (especially Brown and Hutchinson). The CGI creature effects are nicely restrained considering the overall tone of the film -- you only really see them in the final act -- which adds to the film's sense of mystery and suspense. The Burrowers never feels predictable though, as Petty introduces lots of clues regarding the nature of the beasts, and isn't afraid to kill off key characters keeping you guessing.

The whole thing kind of blends together ideas from The Searchers, C.H.U.D. and Tremors then wraps it up in this dreamy mood piece of a horror/western. Neat...sure to appeal to fans of both genres, perhaps my only criticism would be the slightly lethargic pace which might alienate some viewers.

mark f

03-08-09, 10:03 PM

I'm going to check it out, but I hope it's less-lethargic than Jesse James/Robert Ford. I donated 10 hours of my life to that one, and I still think I should have probably called it at three because it didn't really get any deeper, at least for me. It was beautiful and ballsy, but shallow.

Used Future

03-08-09, 10:17 PM

I wasn't keen on Dominik's film either, it was a little too slow and meandering for my tastes. The Burrowers just has a similar visual style, and is only slow in the sense that the horror/monsters stuff doesn't kick in fully until the end of the movie. I think you'd probably rate it a high two and a half possibly a three Mark.

Iroquois

03-08-09, 11:08 PM

http://blog.ugo.com/images/uploads/snake_plissken_efny.jpg

Escape From New York (Carpenter, 1981) - 5

Even though I know deep in my heart that objectively EFNY is far from being a five-star film, on a personal level I still like it a hell of a lot. I'm only all too aware of the goofs (especially the passage of time) and some of the more ridiculous acting, but it's still one of my favourites. I'll probably write up something more substantial some other time.

MovieMan8877445

03-09-09, 12:12 AM

Signs - 5

Okay, I'm in a pickle right now. I honestly can't decide which I like better; this or Lady In The Water. Both are definitely amazing movies, but I think I still may like Lady In The Water just a tad bit better. M. Night Shymalan is like the greatest screenwriter that I've ever seen though; all of his movies are so original and amazingly well done. I feel that, as a director, he gets way too much crap than he deserves. It's pretty funny, because I've gotten like a bunch of people in my family really into him. My mom, some of my cousins, and now I'm currently getting my aunt into him. Since she's down for the week I'm going to continue watching M. Night Shymalan's movies, which may cause me to watch Lady In The Water again so soon, but I have no problem with that. Eveything about this was perfect though, I actually don't think I have a single gripe about this. Which is a clear sign that it should be put in my top 10, to me at least. Because very rarely do I have no gripes with a movie, I even have some gripes with Batman Begins (which is currently at the last spot in my top 10).

James Newtown Howard is such an amazing composer; one of the things that really adds to the mystery of Signs is Newton's score. The score that plays during the 'revalations' scene is like one of the best pieces of music I've ever heard. I love how you suddenly see all the signs in that one scene, instead of a twist ending, like most of Shymalan's movies, it really just add all these amazing revalations. Joaquin Phoenix is just amazing as an actor; I really wanted to see him in some more things, too bad he's retiring from acting and switching to music. This is just a film that I think you have to see sometime, because this is like the ultimate love-it-or-hate-it movie to me, because most people seem to either love it or hate. Most of Shymalan's movies are like this those; actually I think it works better for The Village, Lady In The Water, or The Happening actually.

http://d.yimg.com/img.news.yahoo.com/util/anysize/400,http:%2F%2Fus.ent4.yimg.com%2Fmovies.yahoo.com%2Fimages%2Fhv%2Fphoto%2Fmovie_pix%2Ftouchstone_pi ctures%2Fsigns%2F_group_photos%2Fabigail_breslin12.jpg

TheDOMINATOR

03-09-09, 12:38 AM

Mark already said what needed to be said, but I am going to through my two cents in anyway. Deliverance is not an action movie at it's heart, and what happened to Lewis was necessary so we can see what happens as Ed is forced into the role that was formerly Lewis's.

I personally wouldn't have wanted to see any more of the mountain men. I think they did just enough to further the main character's story. Any more would have been gratuitous.

I considered Deliverence to be more of a character study than an action film but thanks to the cover and no previous knowledge of the film i was expecting action and was pleasantly surprised. Although i too was offended at Burt Reynold's injuries i know it was necessary for the film like what Godoggo said above

And yeah everyday that passes by i dislike Australia more and more. And Nicole Kidman.

As I said in the first sentence of my mini-review post in this thread, Deliverance wasn't what I expected; I thought it actually was more of an action film, but that ended up not being the case at all. Thus my suprise and initial confusion/complaints upon my first viewing. :)

Now that I've "sat" on the movie for over a day and read others' opinions, I'm really starting to see Deliverance for what it really is rather than for what I thought it would actually be.

rice1245

03-09-09, 12:42 AM

O come on every chick around here loves it.It's Robert this Robert that sh111t the guy is so pale in real life too plus he looks like a junky.Its a love story with vampires I might as well go watch Underworld is way better plus it has werewolves, Kate Beckinsale ooo and what was the other thing, aa Action.
Can't believe that it's going to be a Quadrilogy.

Yeah Underworld is 10x better, i just happen to be a teenage girl who despises Twilight, i never even saw the movie but i read the book years ago before any of the sequels came out and it was like a fan fiction written by a thirteen year old with a thesaurus. That was my impression at least =\

Sleezy

03-09-09, 01:20 AM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/Sleezy/Watch600_smaller.jpg

Watchmen (Snyder, 2009) 4

I had some issues, but overall, I'd call it a win. Snyder and company understood most of what Watchmen is about, and really brought it to life in a way that honors the source material as well as it probably could have been honored.

For my full review, CLICK (http://www.movieforums.com/community/showpost.php?p=507485&postcount=15).

mark f

03-09-09, 03:28 AM

You're OK, Dom. We're not picking on you or your opinions/rating. :cool:

zedlen

03-09-09, 06:46 AM

[/URL]

http://thecia.com.au/reviews/h/images/harsh-times-1.jpg
[URL="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harsh_Times"]Harsh Times (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harsh_Times)(2005)

http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/2.5box.gif

This is a different role completely to anything I've seen Christian Bale do, hes character is rude, arrogant and fairly stupid. Its hard to take in at first but you get use to it pretty fast. Freddy Rodriguez is also hard to swallow as Bale's old buddy but again you do get use to it with time then the movie starts to take shape. Considering its written and directed by David Ayer (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0043742/) its just more of the same of his, corruption, violence and drugs. In my opinion it lacks the same punch that Training Day took in its stride and doesn't really hit the mark. If your a true fan of Bale or you just like hard street films then you might enjoy this.

B-card

03-09-09, 07:27 AM

Yeah Underworld is 10x better, i just happen to be a teenage girl who despises Twilight, i never even saw the movie but i read the book years ago before any of the sequels came out and it was like a fan fiction written by a thirteen year old with a thesaurus. That was my impression at least =\

well I guess you have little more brains than the others,good for you ;)

Iroquois

03-09-09, 09:27 AM

http://www.collider.com/uploads/imageGallery/Postal/postal_movie_image_uwe_boll.jpg

Postal (Boll, 2007) - 3

The fact that I liked this movie enough to rent and watch it a second time (mainly for the sake of my friend, who I thought would like it) has probably struck a serious blow to my credibility as a member of these forums, but whatever. Postal is about as guilty as my guilty pleasures get (even more so than Spy Kids 3-D or Escape From L.A.) and I'll admit that while it's still incredibly stupid, violent and tasteless, I still like it. Not really anything else I can say to change anyone's minds about it, seeing as at least 90% of the viewing public have made up their minds about not bothering with any of Uwe Boll's films (at least, not more than once anyway), but Postal is the only real exception - a blunt, tactless satire on modern America (or rather America under Bush) that's just like a live-action episode of South Park, complete with a moral at the end of the story that goes totally unheeded.

linespalsy

03-09-09, 09:42 PM

Just saw North by Northwest and wow, it's not terrible or anything but it's not good either, let alone great. Is this considered one of Hitchcock's best/a classic, and if so why? I just don't see it.

Then I watched Rear Window, a movie that is awesome.

A miss and a hit.

zedlen

03-09-09, 09:58 PM

mark f

03-09-09, 10:23 PM

meatwadsprite

03-09-09, 10:39 PM

I haven't really enjoyed a Hitchcock film yet :( ....

http://tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:tCw68OYisk3bsM:http://userpages.umbc.edu/~landon/13_Images_Movie/Psycho1.jpg http://tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:GNCernzoYt2ZSM:http://www.moviecritic.com.au/images/saul-bass-vertigo-movie-poster1.jpg http://tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:6f7q9dRQuHRuLM:http://www.thearchitectsbackups.com/images/north_by_northwest.jpg

Great visuals all the time , but painfully over suspenseful and I feel like they just keep dragging on and on. Has he directed anything that doesn't hinge on surprises ?

mark f

03-09-09, 10:45 PM

Don't most good films hinge on surprises, even the 157-minute "Hitchcockian pseudodocumentary" Zodiac?

To answer your question, Hitch did make a romantic comedy in 1941, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, but even if it's not overly suspenseful, it does hinge on surprises. :) The Wrong Man has no spectacular flourishes and is filmed in semidocumentary style, a la Zodiac. Hitchcock made a hell of a lot of films and went through several periods, so three films, even if they are usually considered among his best, aren't nearly enough by which to judge him.

meatwadsprite

03-09-09, 10:54 PM

I hate surprises in films , I want to be able to predict everything from the first minute. :indifferent:

I guess if that's what you consider the best of his work (or in the same vein of his other best work) I should stay away from him for now.

TheDOMINATOR

03-09-09, 10:55 PM

Dracula (1931) - 3
(FIRST VIEWING)

http://www.filmsquish.com/guts/files/images/dracula_1931_movie_poster_76.jpg

I don't have much to say about this one. :/ Frankenstein was much better. Some scenes seemed to just drag on with no real motive, and I didn't care for the Dracula character nearly as much as I thought I would, or any character in the film for that matter. There were elements I enjoyed, but overall, I consider Dracula a disappointment. Maybe I'm missing something, but it didn't leave me in awe like Frankenstein did, and it's all about first impressions.

The Quiet - 4

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/4586/51ftn0y1a6lsl500.jpg

This is my third viewing of The Quiet, and, since I last saw it a good 3-4 months ago, this movie is even better than I remember it being. An incredibly dark story with deep, relatable characters and a chilling theme. The narration is spectacular and very thought-provoking, and the performances are all pretty solid. Add in the fact that I'm quite an Elisha Cuthbert fan, and it equals out to be somewhat of a favorite of mine.

zedlen

03-09-09, 11:00 PM

http://www.jack-nicholson.info/media/ms/cap001_1.jpg

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Flew_Over_the_Cuckoo%27s_Nest_%28film%29)(1975)

http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/5box.gif

I was unbiased when I sat down to watch this, not having seen or heard anything except that it was a good Jack Nicholson film. So with fresh eyes I took it all in. Even though this movie is over 30 years old it didn't feel old at all, Nicholson is youthful, rebellious and honestly funny. Its been a while since I've laughed so much at a more serious film. All the supporting roles are filled with bright eyed, up and coming actors like Christopher Lloyd, Brad Dourif and unbelievably Danny DeVito, his character is unforgettable. This is a new favourite of mine, I might just add it to my top ten.

Harry Lime

03-09-09, 11:15 PM

I guess if that's what you consider the best of his work (or in the same vein of his other best work) I should stay away from him for now.

Yup.

Iroquois

03-10-09, 12:23 AM

I hate surprises in films , I want to be able to predict everything from the first minute. :indifferent:

I seriously hope you're kidding.

linespalsy

03-10-09, 12:28 AM

North by Northwest is almost an Alfred Hitchcock "Greatest Hits Collection" movie. It takes the best bits and pieces of Hitch's films for the previous 25 years and distills them into one big entertainment package. I'm guessing you didn't like it because it seemed too light and mainstream. It's true that it isn't as scary or suspenseful as some of his more serious, "unique" films, but I still find it massively watchable. I'm glad you liked Rear Window because that's my fave Hitch film. So what ratings would you give those two films and Vertigo?

Right now I'm leaning towards 2 for North by Northwest, and 3.5 for Rear Window. I think at last reckoning I gave Vertigo 2.5 but that's really just a stand in until I see it again. I'm going to try and get my girlfriend to watch Rear Window with me sometime in the not-too-distant future because a) she hasn't seen it and I think she should, and b) I'd like an excuse to watch it again.

Yeah, it did seem a bit light and run-of-the-mill, but I think it had some more-basic problems as well. The mechanics and story and production values in N/NW seemed very clunky, dated and often unintentionally funny to me. Things like the way the love interest reveals her "change of heart" right up to that famed crop duster scene (what a dumb way to kill someone!). OK, I get it, movie logic, we need big set pieces, twists and we need love to triumph, so anything that gets us from point a to point b is a fair move, but a lot of these moves struck me as really, really dopey. That and I think these sorts of thrillers have really come a long way, stylistically (for lack of a better term). I'm thinking of the recent Tell No One, which I would probably give 3.5, though I'm not sure it has much more "substance."

MovieMan8877445

03-10-09, 12:39 AM

Unbreakable - 5

This is truely an incredible movie, maybe not quite as incredible as Signs or Lady In The Water, but still amazing none-the-less. M. Night Shymalan is a genius at filmwriting, and he's also one of my favorite directors. I don't think I've ever been really disappointed by him yet (I was only a little tad disappointed with The Happening, but not that much). The reason I don't think this is quite as great as the other two films of his that I mentioned was that because some of the parts in this were a little slow. I generally really love superhero movies though, and it was great to see an original superhero movie. The twist ending is one of the best endings I've ever seen; while it's not quite as great as when I first saw it, even after a couple of viewings of it, it's still a pretty amazing ending. I really love showing it to people that haven't seen Unbreakable before, which I did tonight with my aunt.

Bruce Willis is really great in this, easily the best role I've ever seen him in. Samuel L. Jackson and Bruce Willis just make such a great team together; they've been together in a few films now. I'd highly recommend checking it out sometime, even if you don't have much interest in it, because you could end up being really surprised.

http://www.independentcritics.com/images/unbreakableSPLASH.jpg

Iroquois

03-10-09, 06:04 AM

http://images.apple.com/moviesxml/s/independent/posters/trailerparkboys_l200801101150.jpg

Trailer Park Boys: The Movie (Clattenburg, 2006) - 2.5

My friend recently introduced me to the Canadian mockumentary series Trailer Park Boys, which follows the adventures of a trio of lifelong friends, Ricky, Julian and Bubbles, whose lives revolve mainly around drinking, smoking, pot and petty crime. For what it's worth, the series is fairly amusing and the movie essentially functioned as a feature-length episode of the show. While I'll admit that it's reasonably well-made and there's a few laughs to be had (namely as a result of fan favourite Bubbles, the bifocal-sporting cat-lover), it's still a decidedly average "loser" comedy and functions like a poor man's Raising Arizona (the similarities are obvious).

meatwadsprite

03-10-09, 09:40 AM

This is truely an incredible movie, maybe not quite as incredible as Signs or Lady In The Water

:skeptical:

Shya-ma-lan fan
–noun, plural -fans.

1. One who enjoys Lady in the Water
2. One who enjoys Signs
3. One who runs a website based on him ; see also Yoda

Have you seen 12 Monkeys , I really loved Willis in that one.

Iroquois

03-10-09, 11:12 AM

http://www.wildaboutmovies.com/images_4/OrphanageMoviePhoto.jpg

The Orphanage (Bayona, 2007) - 3.5+

Released on the heels of the success of Pan's Labyrinth, The Orphanage revolves around Laura, a woman who wants to re-open the orphanage she lived in when she was a little girl. However, her adopted son soon starts making imaginary friends and before long he disappears. Laura eventually comes to the conclusion that the two events are linked and seeks to find out what the orphanage's supernatural secret is.

The Orphanage is a rather good film. Despite the fact that given the film's supernatural themes and MA15+ rating, I was halfway-expecting a horror film, I was actually rather surprised by the mystery angle of the film. The performances are solid, as is the actual technique and the story is pretty damned good. The final 10 minutes are pretty damned shocking in the twists they take.

http://www.rowthree.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/felonmoviestill.jpg

Felon (Waugh, 2008) - 3.5

When an ordinary construction worker (Stephen Dorff) kills the man that breaks into his home, he is sentenced to prison for involuntary manslaughter. Once inside, he quickly adapts to the unwritten rules of prison life, mostly under the tutelage of one legendary yet mysterious prisoner (Val Kilmer). Throughout his time, he struggles to deal with corrupt guards, bloodthirsty inmates, the slow breakdown of his relationship with his fiancé, and more.

Felon is a solid enough film - everything rounds out reasonably well, with the highlight being Kilmer's turn as Smith, a man who manages to be aggressive, wounded and philosophical, all without making his character seem too clichéd. Dorff's reasonably good, but the reason I was watching this film was under the recommendation of a Kilmer fan, and he delivers the goods in what's a solid yet largely unremarkable prison film.

zedlen

03-10-09, 01:57 PM

http://www.hollywoodjesus.com/movie/k19/38.jpeg

K-19: The Widowmaker (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K-19_Widowmaker) (2002)

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Ive been watching movies on VHS, I watched Se7en last week and was nostaligic for more so when I came across this on VHS I put it straight in without a second though. Straight off the bat I knew the Russian accents weren't going to work for the majority of the cast, in fact I think the only actor who came off looking and acting Russian was Harrison Ford, although not even he sounded it. Solid performances by Ford and Liam Neeson but over all an anti-climax.

http://ferdyonfilms.com/the-fall-splash.jpg

The Fall (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460791/) (2006)

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I read a review on this thread that encouraged me to watch this. They were right it is a lovely looking movie, bright and vibrant colours throughout, huge historical sets. When you look at it from that point of view it is overwhelming, the story itself confused me, I'm not sure if this is a childrens movie or an adults. There are a few scenes and themes that wouldn't be suitable for children yet the plot is alittle to simple to be an adult film.
The young girl who the movie revolves around is my favourite part of this film, channelling a young Amelie in her simple curiosity and kindness. Enjoyable overall but not as grand as it first seems.

http://www.boxofficeprophets.com/tickermaster/loadimage.cfm?image=houseofd.jpg

House of D (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/House_of_D) (2004)

http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/0_5box.gif

Recently I became a David Decovney fan, due to the most part to Californication. When I read he'd directed his first film a few years ago and he and Robin Williams star in it, I figured it must be gold. 10 mins in I realised I'd made a huge mistake, aimed at a younger audiance and with a very "miday movie" feel. I didn't like at all, not even Williams character who was easily the most likable as a mentally slow older friend to the lead.

zedlen

03-10-09, 02:02 PM

adidasss

03-10-09, 03:25 PM

http://ferdyonfilms.com/the-fall-splash.jpg

The Fall (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460791/) (2006)

http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/2.5box.gif

I read a review on this thread that encouraged me to watch this. They were right it is a lovely looking movie, bright and vibrant colours throughout, huge historical sets. When you look at it from that point of view it is overwhelming, the story itself confused me, I'm not sure if this is a childrens movie or an adults. There are a few scenes and themes that wouldn't be suitable for children yet the plot is alittle to simple to be an adult film.
The young girl who the movie revolves around is my favourite part of this film, channelling a young Amelie in her simple curiosity and kindness. Enjoyable overall but not as grand as it first seems.

Why does nobody get this movie??http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc220/diezelpower/cupakosu.gif

Sedai

03-10-09, 03:54 PM

You do! :)

zedlen

03-10-09, 04:29 PM

Why does nobody get this movie??http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc220/diezelpower/cupakosu.gif

I think I caught the plot, I just don't think it was delievered as well as it couldve been. It was a great idea but the darker real life story broke the plot up too much for me, I lost interest in his "story" he was telling and was more concerned with what was going on in real life which is a shame because I enjoyed the "story" sequences a lot. Once the "story" picked back up again I felt unattached to the characters. Overall it wasn't as rewarding as I hoped.

What audience do you think it was aimed at?

mark f

03-10-09, 04:36 PM

zedlen

03-10-09, 05:23 PM

I think it was aimed at film buffs of above-average intelligence and imagination. It's only a kiddie movie if you think The Princess Bride is a kiddie movie. You did realize how the lines between the "fairy tale" and "real lfe" got blurrier as the film progressed?

I did. No it was a good movie, I just didn't think it was as good as it looked, I didn't get as much out of the story as I did The Never Ending Story which is pretty similar.

The age group not intelligence. I though it was a kids movie from the start but after the suicide attempt and how he manipulates herit couldnt be. As an adult film it felt a bit weak. Maybe its just undefinable. Either way a good story just not the movie I thought it would be.

meatwadsprite

03-10-09, 05:48 PM

I guess I'm not a film buff than ;) , I thought the movie started to feel underwhelming towards the end - really enjoyed the performances , but just didn't like the movie that much.

MovieMan8877445

03-10-09, 08:54 PM

Slumdog Millionaire - 4.5

You know, I was quite surprised that I ended up liking this, because I always thought that it was going to be really overrated. While it may still may be overrated a little, which is why it doesn't quite get that perfect score, it's nowhere near as overrated as I thought. I really have no problem with it winning 'Best Picture' now like I did when I saw it win it, but then again, it wasn't going up against any of my favorites. Also, this and Benjamin Button are still the only two 'Best Picture' nominees that I've seen, but I'll be seeing Milk this weekend. I do really agree that this is perfect for watching on the big-screen, which I'd highly recommend doing if you haven't had a chance to see it yet. I doubt it'll be quite as an amazing experience on DVD, I would probably try and catch it again before it leaves theaters, but seeing as it's coming out in 3 weeks on DVD and because of how expensive it is to go see a movie now; I think I'll just wait. There were some parts in this that my seat was literally vibriating, which I really wouldn't expect from a movie like this.

The ending really made me want to just stand up and cheer though, but I didn't; I didn't really feel like looking like an idiot in front of a bunch of people. As far as acting goes though, most of it was pretty solid, especially from a bunch of people that I've never seen in a movie before. None of the acting seemed to really stand out to me, except in certain parts Dev Patel did stand out to me some. I would write up a full review for it, but I'm not really sure if there's anything else that I could add to this; maybe with a re-watch, I'll be able to. Seriously though, even if you think this is overrated, try and see it before it leaves theaters; it just makes the experience even better. If not, it's still okay, because you only have a three week wait until the DVD comes out.

http://chud.com/articles/content_images/5/slumdog_millionaire.jpg

honeykid

03-11-09, 02:50 AM

House of D(2004)

Recently I became a David Decovney fan, due to the most part to Californication. When I read he'd directed his first film a few years ago and he and Robin Williams star in it, I figured it must be gold.

That's the most misinformed statement I've ever read. I genuinely feel sorry for you. I can't imagine the disapointment you felt watching this.

If it helps, here's some advice I hope you heed. If Duchovny is the lead, then it's highly unlikely that the film will be any good. The only one I can think of is Kalifornia and, while I like it, I doubt it's considered great by many, if anyone.

On tv, go ahead and take a look, but on the big screen, leave it alone.

zedlen

03-11-09, 04:04 AM

That's the most misinformed statement I've ever read. I genuinely feel sorry for you. I can't imagine the disapointment you felt watching this.

If it helps, here's some advice I hope you heed. If Duchovny is the lead, then it's highly unlikely that the film will be any good. The only one I can think of is Kalifornia and, while I like it, I doubt it's considered great by many, if anyone.

On tv, go ahead and take a look, but on the big screen, leave it alone.

No I knew he wasn't the lead but I assumed there'd be some quality to it since it was his first shot at directing and Williams just made it seem like a real possibility. I wasn't even going to review it since I disliked so much.
You are right Duchovnys great on TV, boring on film.

mark f

03-11-09, 02:22 PM

I might write something longer later, but I'm getting a little bit backlogged, and I'm guessing that some of these films would qualify as either too specialized or too blah, so mini-mini comments.

L'Atalante (Jean Vigo, 1934) 2.5-

Vigo's final film is considered a poetic masterpiece full of historical significance, but as I find some of Renolr's earliest films a tad uninteresting, I find that this film offers modest charms today. Boris Kaufman's cinematography is still entrancing, and Michel Simon (Boudu Saved From Drowning) is able to breathe life into a full-fledged eccenctric character, but the central romance doesn't captivate, and the film seems mostly an excuse for trying out some new filmmaking techniques, involving light and sound. I'd say that it still should be watched, but I wouldn't get my hopes overinflated.

Service For Ladies (Alexander Korda, 1932) 2.5

Leslie Howard is charming and gets plenty of laughs in this romantic comedy playing a head waiter who falls for a rich woman (Elizabeth Allan) at his London restaurant and pursues her to a lavish resort and romances her. The film has a standard mistaken-identity plot, this one involving Howard being accepted as royalty, but it still provides plenty of humor in a Lubitsch-lite manner, and there are plenty of sexual innuendoes and creative filmmaking to be found for those who look.

Max (Menno Meyjes, 2002) 2

This flick has a great idea for a movie: at the end of WWI, a Jewish art dealer (John Cusack) tries to encourage a struggling artist named Adolf Hitler (Noah Taylor) to open up and let out his true feelings onto his sketches, but the insecure Hitler feels more of a kinship with politics and finds a surprising way to incorporate politics into his art. So, I was sold on the story, but the film moves at a snail's pace, and although it's basically a drama, there were subtle elements of satire and farce, so it became increasingly difficult to distinguish if you were supposed to laugh on purpose or if the acting and/or dialogue were sometimes unintentionally hilarious. It's definitely a unique film, but I'd say that it comes off as a miss.

The Third Generation (Rainer Werner Fassbinder, 1979) 2.5-

Fassbinder takes on 1960s/1970s German terrorism in a pitch black satire which suffers from being overly talky and murky. There are some striking moments, especially the crescendo of violence which takes up the final half hour, but it takes a long time to get to those parts, and up until then, it's difficult to tell who the characters are and what they wanted to accomplish. Of course, that's part of the satiric point, and Fassbinder has the radio and television news on non-stop during the movie, so that the dialogue intermingles with media reports of terrorist activities; it's quite a technical coup, but I can see it distancing many viewers who won't invest the effort to try to penetrate its inscrutable plot and seemingly ad-libbed dialogue.

The Unsuspected (Michael Curtiz, 1947) 2.5+

This is a pretty good, if somewhat generic, murder mystery which seems to be inspired by the previous year's superior film noir The Big Clock. In this film, the gimmick is that Claude Rains plays the host of a weekly radio murdery mystery show, and then people surrounding him begin to get murdered off. There are other mysteries involving amnesia, so this is a very watchable film with an attractive cast of victims and dupes; it's just not too surprising of a mystery even if it plays out satisfactorily.

The Mask of Dimitrios (Jean Negulesco, 1944) 2.5-

Any film which teams Peter Lorre and Sydney Greenstreet is worth watching, and this film has quite a reputation, but overall, it's a bit disappointing. A master criminal's corpse washes on shore and the two men (for extremely different reasons) travel around Europe trying to find out how this villain Dimitrios (Zachary Scott) was able to pull off what he did, and much of it is shown in flashback. Arthur Edeson's noirish filming of the European locations adds to the proceedings, and there are a few frissons to be enjoyed, but it just doesn't seem to add up to what it could have been.

Rockin' the House, aka Killer Diller (Tricia Brock, 2004) 2.5

This modest, predictable film is surprisingly engaging in spite of being cobbled together from dozens of other films. It's about some young people at a Christian halfway house who get involved in a gospel band, but they take it upon themselves, with the help of an autistic kid who's a piano-playing genius, to turn themselves into a blues band. Fred Willard adds some appeal (playing it straight) as the head of the halfway house, but it's really the kids' story and the music which will keep you watching, at least if you accidentally happen to turn it on like I did.

Julia (Fred Zinnemann, 1977) 3

I saw this film a few times at the theatre when it came out because even though I disliked it, it was nominated for Best Picture and ended up winning multiple Oscars. I've always found it to be luxuriously beautiful, but I found the storytelling clumsy and some of the acting and dialogue borderline-embarrassing. Well, now in my old age, I can finally accept this film as a good, suspenseful human story about some real-life characters, including playwright Lillian Hellman (Jane Fonda), her husband, author Dashiell Hammett (Jason Robards) and Lillie's freedom-fighting best friend Julia (Vanessa Redgrave). The film is framed as a rememberance, but most of it takes place just before WWII in and around Fascist parts of Europe. The film still seems to begin awkwardly, but I can enjoy the remainder as an example of professional filmmaking from a master director.

Sedai

03-11-09, 02:37 PM

Romancing the Stone (Zemekis, 1984) 3

http://blogs.glam.com/glamchic/files/2008/01/romancing-the-stone.jpg

A silly but fun romp in the spirit of Raiders of the Lost Ark. The film is produced well, but is sort of corny in some ways. Still, I enjoy the banter between Douglas and Turner, who later got together to do the wonderful The War of the Roses. A combination liking this duo and good ol' nostalgia make this a fun watch for me. I love the classic way in which they shoot the romance scenes, as in the shot above. Turner has that classic profile, and it just works without becoming too muddled in parody/homage.

B-card

03-11-09, 09:19 PM

The Rock(Michael Bay 1996)-Browsing to some music the other day and I have some communal folder and I came to the title theme from The Rock by Hans Zimmer and I was listening to it for like 2 days and tonight I said:F**k it I am watching it tonight.And still it's probably my sixth or seventh time watching this movie or maybe even more and it never gets old(13 years,man time flyes),even with it's cheesy script and Sean Connery's one lieners that make him sound like a British version of Arnold in some moments, but still the action is on its Highest point-we got shootouts,car chasing and one other thing but I forgot because I went to check my Facebook,anyways the movie is awesome I'll never get sick of it,it's like one of those all time favorite that you watch over and over and over again I'll watch it next year again probably

http://twitchfilm.net/site/images/mastheads/TheRock1996.jpg

5

Justin

03-11-09, 09:31 PM

Rachel Getting Married (Demme,2008) - 5

http://www.baltimoremagazine.net/maxspace/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/rachel1.jpg

I'm very glad I was finally able to see this. After months of missing opportunities, I finally had the chance to see it on DVD - which I received on Netflix. Wonderful directing by Demme, all of the actors/actresses were impeccable and the film never resorted to cheap sentimentality or plot twists and stayed focused. One other aspect of the film that I found to be incredibly well-done was the writing. The dialogue alone felt real and unforced - it was never "on-the-nose"; rather it was layered and had a much deeper meaning, rather than mere "surface dialogue".

I've heard complaints about the cinematography, but I didn't find it distracting whatsoever - in fact, I loved it. Several scenes, in particular Kym's "toast", reminded me a lot of The Celebration, by Thomas Vinterberg. And that's a very good thing.

Highly recommended.

igor_is_fugly

03-11-09, 11:24 PM

Kalifornia

http://wpcontent.answers.com/wikipedia/en/thumb/3/34/Kalifornia2.png/300px-Kalifornia2.png
Pretty disappointing. I was so excited to see this, i love the cast and the plot sounded cool and i liked the cover....but no. Most of it is just plain bad- bad script, bad directing, bad haircuts. The movie did have it's moments, there was a good chunk in the middle where I was actually begining to care about what was going on, but the anticlimactic ending killed most of the points it gained back, slipping it right back into mediocrity. The only thing I really liked in this was Juliette Lewis, but I couldn't even fully enjoy her performance because it's similarity to Natural Born Killers annoyed me too much.

So overall...
2.5
meh

zedlen

03-12-09, 12:05 AM

http://ouriel.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/moderntimestrailer_28.jpg

Modern Times (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modern_Times_%28film%29)(Chaplin, 1936)

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I've never seen a whole Charlie Chaplin film. It was surprising because I was expecting pure and simple comedy but instead it delivered a serious message. We aren't watching only a comedy but a social commentary delivered in the most covert and effective way. The slapstick comedy routines themselves are amazing but how they are kept original though out the film is genius. Energetic, insightful and inspiring Chaplin is an obvious master of cinema.

MovieMan8877445

03-12-09, 12:34 AM

Milk - 4+

You know, I've always known that homosexuals have had it pretty tought, but Milk really shows just how tough they can really have it. Yeah, it's probably not quite as bad as this now, but I'm sure it's still pretty tough. This movie really doesn't hold back on what it wants to show; some of the scenes were actually sort of hard to watch. It was much more emotional than I had first thought, like I said, some of the scenes got really hard to watch. I'm always interested in something that Sean Penn is in though, which is actually the main reason that I even decided to see this. Me personally though, I thought the trailer looked amazing, so ultimatley I am a little disappointed, even though I did seem to still really love it. Even though I haven't had had a chance to see The Wrestler yet, Sean Penn really deserved the 'Best Actor' award he got for this. I'd probably call this his second best performance from him that I've seen yet, but also take in mind that I haven't really seen many of Penn's movies, even though he is one of my favorite actors.

It's also great to see James Franco in something though, I guess he really had a great year in 2008 between this and Pineapple Express; I thought that he was great in both. There were also a bunch of other actors that I like in this, namely Emile Hirsch and Josh Brolin. The ending really got to me though, even though I already knew that it was going to happen. The way that they did it just seemed to work perfectly. After watching this I really want to go and watch The Times Of Harvey Milk now; I'm sure I'll do it sometime in the future. I'm still not totally upset that this lost 'Best Picture' this year though, because I still think Slumdog Millionaire is better.

http://www.moviepicturedb.com/pictures/08_12/2008/1013753/l_1013753_a6ada844.jpg

Ðèstîñy

03-12-09, 01:19 AM

Womb Raider (2003)
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a249/nunions/Other%20Boards/WombRaider-5.png

Directed & Written by: Randolph Scott

Cast:
Lauren Hays - Cara Loft
Antoinette Abbott - Natasha
Annie Body - Milla / Statue Priestess 2
Shalimar - Zulu Warrioress
Roland Lanza - Dr. Scrotus / Dylan

A wealthy treasure hunter Cara Loft is invited to meet art collector Dr. Scrotus. She is then thrown into the most erotic, yet dangerous fantasy adventure of her life. She is in search of the three sacred wombs. With danger at every turn, and the beautiful spy Natasha breathing down her neck . . . literally, Cara must do whatever it takes . . . and I do mean "whatever", to reunite the legendary womb idols.
This movie is action packed. Certain scenes will get your heart racing. You may even feel a little hot and bothered . . .

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a249/nunions/Other%20Boards/WombRaider-2.png
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a249/nunions/Other%20Boards/WombRaider-1.png
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Harry Lime

03-12-09, 01:44 AM

Nice review Destiny, but I'm sure you can find more plot revealing pictures than those.

Ðèstîñy

03-12-09, 05:43 AM

They'd be more revealing, alright, but then I'd have to ban myself!

Iroquois

03-12-09, 10:48 AM

Apart from another viewing of Postal (which I still unrepentantly place in the 3 to 3.5 range), viewings of Invasion of the Body Snatchers and Alien (which I'll cover in the theatre thread), the only other film I've seen lately is...

http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/images/lonewolf2.jpg

Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance (Kenji, 1972) - 3.5+

Having seen Shogun Assassin, I had a fairly good idea what to expect from this, the first film in the Lone Wolf and Cub series. It delivered reasonably well - while it wasn't quite as good as I'd hoped, it was still a short and nasty samurai film, with plenty of enjoyable moments that'll guarantee that this won't be the last film in the series I bother with. I won't bother writing much more, other than if you're looking for a rather simplistic tale of one man, his son and his neverending rampage of bloodshed, look no further.

mark f

03-12-09, 02:55 PM

W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings (John G. Avildsen, 1975) 3

http://www.grindhousedatabase.com/images/thumb/Wwdancekingpost.jpg/300px-Wwdancekingpost.jpg

In 1957, sweet-talking robber/con man W.W. (Burt Reynolds) drives throughout the South in his 1955 Oldsmobile 88, holding up S.O.S. gasoline stations but always giving some of the money back to the person he robs. One night, while trying to avoid the police, this Robin Hood stumbles across a band called the Dancekings and becomes attracted to their upright singer Dixie (Conny Van Dyke). W.W. promises that he can get them a gig in Nashville the very next night, and he delivers, even if it turns out only to be playing at an amateur contest. Eventually, W.W. says that he can get the group on the Grand Ole Opry, but little does he know that the S.O.S. Corp. has sent their top "hit man", the Deacon (Art Carney), to capture W.W. and stop his reign of holdups.

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t203/bejmaf/wwdance.jpg

This flick captures Burt Reynolds at the height of his charm, the script by Thomas Rickman (Coalminer's Daughter) is one of his most enjoyable, and Avildsen directs in the crowd-pleasing style he used the following year to gain a Best Director Oscar for Rocky. The beginning and ending of this fairy tale are even better than my rating above, but the middle of the film gets a bit extended and loses some of the comic head of steam that built up at the start. For those interested, the Dancekings include such famous faces as Jerry Reed, James Hampton, and Rick Hurst, and there's a funny cameo by Ned Beatty playing a country-singing star who agrees to listen to the Dancekings. This flick isn't available on DVD, but I have no reasonable explanation for that.

The Wild Child (François Truffaut, 1970) 3.5

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WJRB9MRXL._SL500_AA240_.jpg

In a French forest in 1798, a feral boy (Jean-Pierre Cargol) is found and taken to live at the home of Parisian Dr. Itard (Truffaut) and his motherly housekeeper (Françoise Seigner). Itard names the boy, who appears to be about 12 years old, Victor and proceeds to try to teach him about communication, morals, language, socially-appropriate behavior and many similar things about which the boy has no knowledge or training. It proves to be both incredibly difficult and rewarding.

http://blogs.kpbs.org/images/uploads/ES03copy2732.jpg

Based on Dr. Itard's own medical notes, this true-life story is suffused with Truffaut's trademark humanism, this time punched up by Nestor Almendros' gorgeously-primitive black-and-white photography and a Vivaldi soundtrack. To see Victor slowly transform from an "animal" to a human is touching, but Truffaut goes out of his way to show both Victor and the Doctor as very flawed, yet still highly representative of normal human behavior. The doctor's attempts to blend science, psychology and non-relogious morals into his teaching of Victor is a monumental task which I recommend should be seen by most all movie watchers.

Lights in the Dusk (Aki Kaurismäki, 2006) 2.5

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Director Kaurismäki uses his typical deadpan style to tell the story of a lonely Helsinki security guard (Janne Hyytiäinen) who leads one of the most boring lives in existence. His only brushes with honest human interaction come from his daily stops at the tiny local grill where he exchanges a word or two with the female worker (Maria Heiskanen). Then one day out of the blue, a blonde woman (Maria Järvenhelmi) approaches him and rather coldly asks him to take her out, and he accepts. The problem is that the blonde is working for a crooked businessman (Ilkka Koivula) who's trying to take advantage of the loser guard's position to steal some jewels.

http://www.coffeecoffeeandmorecoffee.com/archives/lights%20in%20the%20dusk%202.jpg

Although the film can be seen as some form of neo-noir, it fits more "comfortably" into the director's minimalistic, existential style of making dark comedies from things which seem to be far more tragic than humorous. We never learn about what makes the security guard's life the way it is, but we can understand and relate to him as a lovable outsider who doesn't seem to have many social skills. I'm sure there are many viewers unfamiliar with Kaurismäki who will swear that there are no laughs at all in the film, and there are probably those who understand his agenda and do not like it. Even so, he has built up a fervent cult, and this film goes into many of his themes and motifs, including love of animals, cigarette smoking, heavy drinking, rock 'n' roll, crime, loneliness, etc. I didn't find it quite as compelling as The Man Without a Past, but it's still worth a look-see if you're in the mood or a fan. The ending is a keeper.

Cold Around the Heart (John Ridley, 1997) 2

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GMVKG6YPL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

This is one of the many misbegotten films which David Caruso left "NYPD Blue" for to "make it big" in the movies. It's a typically-cliched neo-noir, and as such, I find no reason to go into the plot at all. It's got a bickering couple, car chases, narrow escapes, hoary "plot twists", explosions, dollops of sex, and four or five endings, each one more predictable than the last. It's somehow not quite bad enough to be good, and it's certainly not good by any stretch, but it's strangely watchable if only to see how poorly made up Caruso, Chris Noth and their female co-stars Kelly Lynch and Stacey Dash can look at any given time. Maybe that's what the real problem with Cold Around the Heart is; it's just plain goofy. It thinks it's a modern version of Out of the Past, but it comes off more like a Roadrunner/Wile E. Coyote flick with a little less sophistication.

adidasss

03-12-09, 03:57 PM

Marky, do you think you'll ever run out of new things to watch? How many films do you watch a day?

mark f

03-12-09, 07:02 PM

It's impossible to run out of films to watch, and I've already seen half of the ones I've "reviewed" on this page before. I've had a physical problem this week, so I'll admit to staying home and watching 11 movies in about the last 48 hours. Normally though, I average about one movie a day. Back when I was going to college full-time, I actually watched 1738 movies in one year, and yes, I graduated in four years. :cool:

TheDOMINATOR

03-12-09, 08:25 PM

That's about what I average also, Mark: one movie per day. I'd say, on average, I watch about nine movies per week.

Powdered Water

03-12-09, 09:40 PM

Some more delightful 80's cheese...

Battle Beyond The Stars (Jimmy T. Murakami - 1980) 3

http://www.posterpalace.com/images/ak/battlebeyondstarsos.jpg

I don't know what in the hell has gotten into me lately but I am on a serious 80's kick and I am so happy that I am because I may never have stumbled across this little gem. Think Seven Samurai only with no Samurai. Think The Magnificent Seven only with out those "gritty gunfighters". Over the top? Check. Fantabulous costumes? Check. Good actors? Mostly check. God this was great... And check out this ship. Is it not choice? It looks like a pair of... well you decide what they look like, eh?

http://www.bobpitch.com/anon/AndyV_battle-beyond-the-stars_2.jpg

What a fun flick. It was just so utterly bad and bizarre and good. I just grinned through the whole damn thing.

Dèmoni AKA Demons (Lamberto Bava - 1985) 3

Another treat. I don't really know what this flick had to do with demons but it sure had a bunch of great 80's gore. I've seen this once before and I have come to appreciate a lot more the works of Bava and Argento. I'm really going to start diving in to more of their stuff. And also Fulci? I think that's how you spell his name.

Anyway, so basically a bunch of people start watching a movie and they all turn into flesh eating demons. And then the usual hilarity ensues and there's the running and the screaming. A bunch of senseless dialog which mostly doesn't matter anyway because the star of the film is the gore.

Hey UF. Do you have any idea why it is that most of these flicks are dubbed? I'm no lip reader but it seems to me that for the most part they are speaking in English and yet the film still appears to be dubbed. Do you know why? I have a theory but I thought I'd go ahead and ask you since you are a lot more in the know on these Italian flicks than I am.

Dèmoni 2 AKA Demons 2 (Lamberto Bava - 1986) 2.5

Same deal as above only not quite as good as the first. Enjoy!

mark f

03-12-09, 09:59 PM

zedlen

03-12-09, 10:06 PM

http://blog.newsok.com/bamsblog/files/2009/02/slumdog-millionaire-5.jpg

Slumdog Millionaire (Boyle, 2008)

When I heard about Slumdog Millionaire it was still in the early stages, I thought what a strange subject to make a movie about. Sunshine has become a move I can watch over and over and always enjoy, Trainspotting has always been a classic in my eyes, I watched Slumdog with a caustious curiosity hoping not to be let down. And I wasn't, it delivered in every way I wanted it to and surprised me through out. Great performances from an unknown cast make it even more remarkable. Beautifully shot like Boyle's films always are. Drawn out perfectly, with a depth and larger plot that is expertly executed. Honest and heart wrenching, Boyle is back.

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Powdered Water

03-12-09, 11:04 PM

I liked Demons, and saw it at the theatre, but I never saw any sequels. Thinking about it, did Demons borrow the scene from the previous year's Gremlins where they all watched and loved Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and turn it into a gorefest? I wouldn't doubt it for a second.

Yeah, I can see that Mark. It wouldn't surprise me at all if that's what Argento and Bava were using as their starting premise.

Used Future

03-12-09, 11:08 PM

Hey UF. Do you have any idea why it is that most of these flicks are dubbed? I'm no lip reader but it seems to me that for the most part they are speaking in English and yet the film still appears to be dubbed. Do you know why? I have a theory but I thought I'd go ahead and as you since you are a lot more in the know on these Italian flicks than I am.

Many Italian pictures (especially Gialli and horror) were filmed with international casts all speaking their native languages (or broken English); then post dubbed. This often resulted in the English speaking actors re-dubbing their own parts. A slightly more recent example of this is Michele Soavi's Dellamorte Dellamore (a film you need to see if you haven't already) for which Rupert Everett re-dubbed his own dialogue in post production. Thats why dialogue often appears dubbed even when the actor is speaking in English. Demons like many of Fulci and Argento's most popular films is a classic example of post dubbing. Oh yeah and Demons rocks...hard!!! anyone who likes The Evil Dead, zombies and gore needs to check it out. It may not be the most intelligent film ever made, but it sure does deliver the goods in terms of moodily lit 80's visuals, makeup work, and all out carnage. Not to mention Claudio Simonetti's classic theme tune, and a helicopter crashing through the roof of a cinema, now that is entertainment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_Tgha7iC6g&feature=related

Powdered Water

03-12-09, 11:12 PM

Yeah, that's what the wife and I have been discussing. I'm sure glad all that post editing doesn't interfere with all the great sound effects that go with the gorefest. That would be a travesty. Wasn't Roger Corman infamous for that as well? I believe he even took it a step further and would sometimes edit in different actors to play the same roles as well.

EDIT: Oh, and I haven't seen that flick but I'm getting it through the usual channel as we speak. I can't wait...

Used Future

03-12-09, 11:21 PM

I suspect in the case of Demoni, Bava Jnr had the cast speak their lines in broken English because the lip syncing is so good. Compare it with Argento's Suspiria which had an international cast and there's a huge difference in quality.

Lennon

03-13-09, 03:11 AM

So, I started this as a review, but I just didn't have to many thoughts on it, so I'll just put it here:

http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n157/joshm9393/TAPS.jpg

TAPS
3+

So I'm unsure why I watched this movie. It didn't sound terribly exciting and I had heard next to nothing about it, so I looked on IMDB and saw the cast. Wow, Sean Penn, Tom Cruise, George C Scott, Timothy Hutton, and Ronny Cox all in one movie? What's two hours of my life even if this is bad. Luckily it's a pretty solid film.

Yes, the cast does well. George C Scott will always be a military man that I'd follow to the very end. Timothy Hutton can keep calm under pressure well. Ronny Cox isn't likeable to much after seeing him in RoboCop, so Watching a young Sean Penn and Tom Cruise is pretty surreal, and fun to see.

The script is probably the worst thing about this movie. First, the story is a little hard to belive. I liked that it tried to say that kids would stand to the death to protect their school, but in the real world that would never happen. Loads of more kids would be running out then happens. Second, Tim Hutton's character, while I admire his intentions, just made to many mistakes. He's supposed to be the best of the best at his school right? Well I know to not rely on freakin' twelve year olds to guard the gates. Let them do simple jobs, they more than likely haven't had rifle training. Third the ending was a letdown, it could only go down one of two ways, it tried to have it both ways, but Cruise's actions just seemed so random that I didn't really care about the scene.

zedlen

03-13-09, 03:56 AM

http://witneyman.files.wordpress.com/2009/01/valkyrie31.jpg

Valkyrie (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valkyrie_%28film%29) (Singer, 2008)

I've been looking forward to this movie, when I saw the first trailers I was happy to see a new WII film being released since I'm a bit of a war buff.
After the first few minutes I knew it wasn't going to deliver a war epic but more of a political drama, I was alright with that. Until I started to get bored. Tom Cruise gives a bland performance, it looked like he was trying to hard to be serious about something he didn't care about and he is hard to buy as a German. The supporting cast was the stand out, Bill Nighy, Eddie Izzard, Tom Wilkinson and Terence Stamp give a decent enough performance. A few moments mid movie involving the assassination were also interesting and did generate some genuine intensity. After watching The Elephant Man, Modern Times and One Flew Over the Cucko's Nest recently I couldn't even enjoy this on a superficial level. Boring, predictable and unforunately pointless.

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Godoggo

03-13-09, 09:09 PM

Nana
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr359/godoggo_photo/Nana_movie.jpg?t=1236987495

I was in the mood to watch something on the light side and thought this would fit the bill. It did. There is not much to the story (it's based on a manga, which I have not read) other than two very different girls with the same name become friends. One is following her boyfriend and the other wants to become a famous punk rock singer.

At times it's a little melodramatic and silly, but the two Nanas were charismatic enough to keep me engaged. I have to give kudos to the two actresses for keeping their perspective Nanas from stepping over the line into becoming irritating and grating, which I could have seen easily happening.

I give it a C+, on the strength of the Nanas alone.

zedlen

03-13-09, 09:55 PM

http://static.guim.co.uk/Guardian/arts/gallery/2007/oct/10/mamet/glengarrykobal-3928.jpg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glengarry_Glen_Ross_%28film%29)

Glengarry Glen Ross (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glengarry_Glen_Ross_%28film%29) (Foley, 1992)

I find it hard to believe a film like this goes unnoticed. I haven't come past it before in reviews or video shops. Its an interesting film with an unusually fast pace and sharp uncomprimising characters about the aggressive world of property sales.
Unbelievable performances by the star studded cast Ed Harris, Alan Arkin, Alec Baldwin, Kevin Spacey and the stand outs for me Al Pacino and Jack Lemmon. A purely character driven film with overwhelming dialogue. This is one of the rare opportunities you get to see great actors only playing off each other. I'm going to try and see a theatrical version. Highly Recommended.

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Justin

03-13-09, 10:44 PM

American Movie (Smith,1999) - 4

http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/images/americanmovie1.jpg

A deeply affecting "documentary" concerning an amateur filmmaker who is attempting to direct his first short, horror film Coven. He struggles deeply to overcome self-doubt, and failure - but his personal demons (drinking, gambling, a dysfunctional family) are constantly at odds with him. Also, Mark has found himself in a great deal of debt to the IRS and his family; his concerns are wide-spread and affect his overall psyche. The most troubling aspect of American Movie is that Mark is fully aware of the inevitable result, despite his efforts.

I think any aspiring filmmaker, writer, or anyone for that matter can see a little bit of themselves in Mark; but Mark's passion is what ultimately really matters.

Highly recommended.

MovieMan8877445

03-14-09, 12:01 AM

Role Models - 3.5

Not quite as funny as I remember it being when I first saw it in theaters, but still a very hilarious movie. This is one of those rare movies that doesn't show all the funny parts in the trailer, actually I think they chose a lot of the un-funny parts for the trailer; I guess they wanted you to be surprised. Right from the very start, the laughs just start and they sure don't stop. Bobb'e J. Thompson is the funniest person in this movie, yes, even more than Sean William Scott. Sean William Scott was still hilarious, but I fell that Bobb'e J. Thompson stole a lot of his thunder. Paul Rudd really isn't hilarious in this, like the former two that I mentioned; his character seemed more sincere though, and his character really wasn't meant to be hilarious, IMO. Jane Lynch really freaked me out though, I literally thought she was high all througout the movie or something. I guess she was a great choice for the role though, because every scene that she was in, I couldn't stop laughing.

This is one of the biggest surprises of 2008; I mean the trailer really wasn't that funny to me, but like I said, they chose a lot of the un-funny parts for the trailer. I'd probably rank it as my second favorite comedy of 2008, right after Pineapple Express. Anyone who's thinking of seeing this, but is still not sure wether or not to do it, do yourself a favor and see it. Even if you have no interest, still see it, especially if you like raunchy comedies.

http://blog.newsok.com/bamsblog/files/2008/11/role-models.jpg

honeykid

03-14-09, 12:50 AM

[B]http://witneyman.files.wordpress.com/2009/01/valkyrie31.jpg
... Boring, predictable and pointless.

I think that predictable is a little tough. It's a true story after all and, even if you hadn't heard of the plot before, you could be sure that it didn't succeed. A bit like watching Titanic and complaining that you knew the boat would sink.

BTW, even though I've not seen the film, your rating doesn't suprise me.

zedlen

03-14-09, 01:07 AM

I think that predictable is a little tough. It's a true story after all and, even if you hadn't heard of the plot before, you could be sure that it didn't succeed. A bit like watching Titanic and complaining that you knew the boat would sink.

BTW, even though I've not seen the film, your rating doesn't suprise me.

It wasn't the failed assassination that was the predictable part. But if you haven't seen the movie you wouldn't know, if I were you I wouldn't see it anyway.

Iroquois

03-14-09, 07:04 AM

http://www.theage.com.au/ffximage/2006/01/06/OvertheEdge_060106110325016_wideweb__300x420.jpg

Over the Edge (Kaplan, 1979) - 2.5

I'd heard about this as a result of it being considered a companion piece of sorts to Pump Up The Volume. While it does share a lot of the same themes and subject matter (the primary focus being on teenage angst and rebellion in both films), I have to say that on a personal level at least, I prefer Volume, because to be honest, I did not think that much of Over the Edge.

I wonder if I missed something, though. Why did I not really care for the film? The characters weren't really worth caring about, the repetitious feel of the film's action, the overdone attempts at drama seemed pretty weak (even though I could imagine a lot of the things in the film have happened at least once), the generally disconnected vibe I got throughout the whole film...I don't know. I guess either I missed the point, or I got the point and didn't "enjoy" the film anyway. Then again, what difference does that make?

Justin

03-14-09, 11:18 AM

Milk (Van Sant,2008) - 3.5

http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/images/arts/photos/2008/11/24/arts_milk_topimage_584.jpg

So I watched this last night and for the most part I enjoyed it. A well-directed film concerning the political activism of Harvey Milk; the first openly gay official of California. All of the performances were good; particularly Emile Hirsch, Josh Brolin, and of course Sean Penn. One interesting aspect of the film was how it put us directly into the riots. This helped the film considerably; whereas, the usual director and DP would have chosen to keep us separate and uncomfortably far away from where we actually want to be. Another aspect that I found to be stand-out was Van Sant's directorial choice (a great one) of being objective. We are able to see all aspects of Harvey's life without judgement, and he's never idealized or portrayed in a false manner. Milk is equally as flawed as we all are.

There isn't a whole lot to say about Milk, but I do think it's an interesting film; however, I do find Van Sant more interesting when he's experimenting - like he did with Paranoid Park.

Recommended.

Mrs. Darcy

03-14-09, 04:10 PM

Deathbed: The Bed That Eats (George Barry 1977)1

I watched this as a lark because the guys on my radio station said it was so bad it was good. Nope. It was just bad...

A house out in the country stands abandoned, and in it: a bed, a fireplace, and a painted portrait. Inside the portrait is trapped the young man that used to live in the house with the cursed bed. He was put into the portrait because he had TB and was unfit to be eaten. The rest of his family was not so lucky.

The bed seems to be solid, but inside, once the objects are consumed, it looks like acid is eating everything away. And the objects on the bed get immobilized by a yellow sea of bubbles/foam until they sink into the bed's interior. If this sounds ridiculous, it is. The bed's first course is a couple who just happen to know the house is abandoned. They bring a little picnic lunch, but the guy has other plans, of course. He sits the bucket of chicken and some apples and wine on the bed next to them as they makeout. Soon, you see bubbles rising around the food and it shows the food falling into the acid or whatever it is. The only problem with this scenario is that the bed puts the food back onto the bed. Evidently the acid only eats flesh, not bones or apple cores. Convenient. The bed also gets indigestion.
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l26/halfwildhalfchild/DeathBed2.jpg

The movie is in three parts: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. There is a back story as to how the bed got cursed. There is a plot involving three women who go to the house for a get away, but lord is it slow and weak and awful. The whole thing is pretty dismal, but I know we have bad horror movie enthusiasts, maybe you'll see the charm in this film that I've missed. Who knows?

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2088/2088630670_284262d981_o.jpg

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51BZDK62E1L._SL500_AA240_.jpg

Justin

03-14-09, 05:29 PM

This Is England (Meadows,2006) - 4

http://image.guardian.co.uk/sys-images/Film/Pix/pictures/2007/04/10/thisisengland1.jpg

The film is set in 1983 and we follow a 12-year who has lost his father. Shaun is picked on at school, but he doesn't allow them to walk all over him. Eventually, he meets a group of local skinheads. Shaun inevitably begins to dress like them, as well. Unfortunately, a skinhead named Combo has returned from prison. Combo attempts to divide the group; he has developed white nationalist views and tries to force them upon the group. After a long diatribe from Combo, he persuades Shaun to join his white nationalist mentality. We view Shaun as he descends into a life that he doesn't really understand, but sympathizes with Combo's causes - as he feels his dad needs to be avenged. Shaun is forced to see the reality and danger of his "adopted" belief system.

This Is England is beautifully captured. Danny Cohen's cinematography is very well done. It gives the feeling of bleakness, as it should. This Is England does not have a polished aesthetic; rather there is the feeling of realism.

One of the stand out performances was by Stephen Graham. He delivered an incredibly layered, complex performance. We are capable of witnessing all of his inadequacies, insecurities, and his bitterness. Andrew Shim, who plays Milky, gives a very quiet, but good performance. The entire cast - altogether - did a wonderful job.

Recommended.

Justin

03-14-09, 11:12 PM

Vertical Ray of the Sun (Trần Anh Hùng,2000) - 4

http://img457.imageshack.us/img457/627/vray19wb.jpg

As a big fan of Trần Anh Hùng, I've desperately wanted to see this for quite some time. It is always "saved" on Netflix and all of the stores I've been to here in NYC never seem to have it in stock. So I got lucky today and found it in a local video store. Now that I have seen it, I'm not sure what to say.

As always, the film is incredibly sensory and visually intense - like Xich lo, which still happens to be my favorite to this day. Each frame is meticulously placed; every scene feels like it could have been a painting at some point. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to watch the film to pick apart each frame and notice the particularities of the placement. He has always painted a beautiful picture of Vietnam, and continues to do so. Vertical Ray of the Sun is like a slow, poetic dream of sorts - it never hurries itself along, or feels rushed; it's blissfully paced and feels as if it could be a slice of everyday life in Vietnam - which in itself is a beautiful thing. It is clear to see that Trần Anh Hùng is fascinated by simplicity. It moves along with mere images and sparse dialogue. The beautiful score helps to add more sensory detail to each image.

Now, the acting is very restrained and subdued. They don't say much, but each emotion that is exhibited can be witnessed by seeing them - not hearing them. Some of the acting is a little weak, as it feels occassionally that they're rushing their lines. Regardless of this weakness, the film thrives and tells a wonderful family drama without the theatrics.

Highly recommended.

Powdered Water

03-15-09, 12:26 AM

Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun Li (Andrzej Bartkowiak - 2009) 1.5

Yeah, so, this flick didn't really "rock ass balls" like I predicted but it wasn't altogether terrible. Just mostly terrible I guess. I don't really know why they felt the need to give it the "Street Fighter" moniker (money I reckon). I suppose they figured that would somehow give them some credibility or something. It's kind of funny in a way, I'd give the first Street Fighter about the same rating maybe a 2. Neither one will be memorable probably except for who was in them. In the first we had that JCVD guy and a ridiculously over the top Raul Julia (hard to fathom that that thing was his last film) and in this installment we have the lovely Kristin Kruek and the big galoot Micheal Clarke Duncan.

http://www.ramasscreen.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/streetfighter-chun-li-movie-4.jpg

It wouldn't surprise me much if this version ends up making more money over the long haul because of the Kruek fanboy following and it's warranted I'd say. She is a little hottie, and she did fine in the role such as it was. For the most part it was just your basic revenge flick with some fair to decent fight scenes. I would expect a straight to DVD sequel at some point. Probably won't have the little Kruekster in it though. More's the pity...

Friday The 13th (Marcus Nispel - 2009) 2.5

It could've been worse. Believe me. I've seen so many others that were down right terrible. There were some fantastic lines in this installment as well as some excellent nudity. So obviously whoever made this flick paid attention to when these flicks were popular and did it right for the most part. Only real trouble with the flick was that it wasn't scary in the least. Of well, a few of the lines really made up for it.

"You have perfect nipple placement, baby."

See what I mean? And she did. No man junk though, my wife is getting seriously sideways at the total lack of man junk in these types of flicks and she's right. They rarely have it. Something should probably be done... ;)

Dellamorte Dellamore (Michele Soavi - 1994) 3.5

You are the man UF! This flick was freaking awesome! Loved every second of it. Didn't even really notice the "post editing", much more well done in this one than in the two Demons flicks. Thanks for the recommendation and please do keep them coming. I also saw one of the other ones you mentioned to me too.

Alien Raiders (Ben Rock - 2008) 3

Also pretty damn good. I thought they did a nice job with what looked to be relatively no budget. When we do finally get a look at the creature you can tell where most of the cash must of went. Still though it clipped right along and I liked it quite a bit. I'm also a big fan of Matthew St. Patrick the guy who played Seth as he was in Six Feet Under a lot, (one of the best shows, like, ever) so it was nice to see him again. Oddly enough he was playing a police officer in this flick just like he did in the show. I guess that's just how it goes.

Blacula (William Crain - 1972) 2.5

Enjoyed this too... I can't wait to catch the sequel Scream Blacula Scream. Pam Grier is in that one. Can't wait.

MovieMan8877445

03-15-09, 01:26 AM

The Evil Dead - 3.5+

I watched this for the first time like 6 months ago, actually probably longer than that, and I was pretty disappointed after I got done watching it. I think my problem that I chose to watch it (which I actually watched the entire trilogy for the first time that night) on that night was I really wasn't in the right mood to watch it that night, and I was just expecting something different; for some reason, I wasn't expecting a cheesy B-horror movie. Anyways, after watching the Drag Me To Hell trailer many times this past week, I decided that it was time to give The Evil Dead series another try, and I knew what to expect before watching this time. It was much better than I remember it being though, and a lot more fun now that I knew what to expect. I still don't think it's scary one bit, but then again, I don't find many older horror movies that everyone considers really scary, to be scary at all. I don't know, I guess it was just scary if you saw them back when they first released, and in today's time, they really aren't that scary at all. I guess that would mean horror movies released today are supposed to be scary though, and The Strangers was the first horror movie that I've seen in awhile that actually scared me.

Bruce Campbell was really awesome in this, but I do remember him being even more awesome in the latter two in the series. The acting really isn't good for the most part though, but I doubt many people watch these movies for the acting. They watch them because they're just so fun to watch. I still wish we would get another fun horror movie like this to come out, even though the Friday The 13th remake was pretty fun to watch. I'm hoping that Drag Me To Hell will be as fun to watch as this was. I'm looking foward to re-watching the rest of the series though, because as I remember Army Of Darkness was the only one of the series that I actually enjoyed a lot with a first viewing. I do admit that I wasn't paying much attention to The Evil Dead II when I first saw it, so I plan to re-watch that one in the very soon future; hopefully tomorrow.

http://www.best-horror-movies.com/images/Evil-Dead-Ash-choking.jpg

Iroquois

03-15-09, 10:39 AM

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a107/PrimoOoze1138/Movie%20pictures/DoTheRightThingRadioMookie.jpg

Do The Right Thing (Lee, 1989) - 4+

A long-overdue re-watch (the second time I've seen the film in about four years). Even though I remember thinking it was good back then, hearing most people rate it better than I did prompted another viewing, and I have to admit, yes, it is really good. Not too sure how easy it is to get DVD copies around here anymore, but I should probably look into it. Looks great, has a plethora of characters that are always amusing, an interesting style and quite simply a great film. But you already knew that.

Golgot

03-15-09, 11:26 AM

Got me some airplane viewing in...

http://xemorph.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/ghost-town-22.jpg

Ghost Town

Had some fun conceits (especially the final principle on which all the ghostly matters were resolved - which although still kinda mawkish, felt more poignant and rewarding than much of the monolithic mawkishness that had started to dominate the plot). Gervais's winningly-misanthropic sensibilities meant he fit the lead character pretty well.

http://www.canaltcm.com/myfiles/ap/penelope-vicky.cristina.gif

Vicky Christina Barcelona

Not sure whether it was the Spanish light, or the lack of Allen agonising all over the screen, but this seemed to display more directorial flourishes and panache than his recent Scoop (which i couldn't finish). Johansson was tepid and transparent in this too (pretty she definitely is, but her acting skills seem to mainly involve opening her eyes and pointing her head, as far as i can see), and the build-up wasn't entirely promising. Cruz seems to be getting a lot of the acclaim for what's good about this flick, and events definitely hit a high-flying peak when her neurotic character finally appears, but it's solid groundwork by Bardem in particular (and the juicy juxtapositions of the 'love pentagon' that evolves) that are equally behind the successes of that thoroughly enjoyable stage.

MovieMan8877445

03-15-09, 11:55 PM

Evil Dead II - 4.5

I wanted to give this a full perfect score, but I was really confused by the first 15 minutes, so I had to bump it down a little. After some thought since last night though, I want to bump my Evil Dead score up an extra .5, so now it's a 9/10. This is way more sillier than the first though, even though the first was pretty silly still. It's just so fun to watch, and I could probably watch this over and over. Well, not over and over, because then it would start to get boring. I think the first time I watched this I really wasn't paying that much attention, because as I remember, there was something else going on the night that I decided to watch the whole trilogy for the first time. I'm glad I'm re-watching them though, because I'm loving them more with re-watches, and I plan to continue on tomorrow to finish the trilogy off with Army Of Darkness.

Bruce Campbell is so freaking awesome though; he's even more awesome in this than the first Evil Dead. Especially once it gets towards the ending, then he just totally turns hardcore. He seemed like he was slipping into insanity more in this one, especially when he first got back to the cabin. This movie is so over-the-top, yet it's just so fun to watch. Anyone that hasn't got a chance to check out this series yet should get to it sometime soon. Did anyone think this and The Thing were pretty similar though? In the sense that it has some demon thing taking over people's bodies, except in The Thing, it's an alien, and not a demon. I don't know, just something after watching the first two Evil Dead's.

http://blogs.kpbs.org/images/uploads/evil-dead-2.jpg

Iroquois

03-16-09, 12:16 AM

What a coincidence...

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e339/shrouds/evil_dead2_4.jpg

Evil Dead II (Raimi, 1987) - 3.5

After watching the original on Friday night, I felt like I wanted to check out the sequel tonight to see how they held up. I was relatively disappointed, though.

Why's that? It merits investigation, considering how I'd touted the trilogy as favourites for a couple of years now. I put it down to the fact that maybe I'd re-watched it too many times (this viewing marks viewing number 13 or maybe even 14, I'm not entirely sure) and as such, it's no longer anywhere near as scary or funny as I'd originally found it back when I first watched it a couple of years ago. I didn't really expect it to be, though. Maybe if I showed it to somebody else, I may have changed my mind, but yeah.

The problem with the scares is that they are predictable. Consider the original, which I watched for the seventh time the other night. There was still plenty of suspense on offer - even when I knew what was coming, it was handled so well so that I never knew exactly when anything was coming. The sequel's scares are mostly predictable (notably by an editing technique where there's a shot of the character about to be scared, then a cutaway to something else, then the shock happening in the next shot - totally sucking the suspense out of the film) and not particularly scary. I also didn't find that the film's humour really held up after so many viewings - the first few times I saw this laughed my arse off, this time I chuckled once. I have to admit I'm not about to give it a low rating simply because it's an old favourite and it manages to do something original that puts its story a cut above the events of most generic horror films, but yeah, I definitely think this is the weakest of the Evil Dead films.

MovieMan8877445

03-16-09, 12:21 AM

Iroquois

03-16-09, 12:27 AM

Yeah, it's a shame, because I've seen Army of Darkness about the same amount of times (roughly a dozen or so) and that's still as entertaining as ever, but Evil Dead II has been wearing thin over the past few times I've seen it.

The thing is if you really want to laugh at a movie it's probably a good idea to see it with somebody else. It's not like you can laugh at a movie watching it by yourself for the 14th time.

Harry Lime

03-16-09, 12:35 AM

I still laugh at This is Spinal Tap, and I usually watch it alone. I like how you guys both watched Evil Dead 2 together, on opposite ends of the planet.

Iroquois

03-16-09, 12:38 AM

I watched Monty Python and the Holy Grail by myself a few weeks ago and it was still hilarious. I don't really laugh so hard at This Is Spinal Tap, but I still get a warm feeling from watching it, and I suppose that's what counts.

Harry Lime

03-16-09, 12:42 AM

Holy Grail and Life of Brian still get me laughing too. As for Spinal Tap, everytime they talk about their past drummers I laugh a good laugh. "They said it was better left unsolved."

Iroquois

03-16-09, 12:45 AM

Tragic, really - he...exploded on stage. Just like that.

TheUsualSuspect

03-16-09, 01:31 AM

Having Evil Dead II's scares predictable I thought was half the fun. The first film was straight up horror, this one walks the lines of parody (unlike the third). It plays up the fact that horror film scares are predictable and not really what they seem.

Of course with a lot of films watching it dozens of times makes it lose the effect it once had. I'm sure if you were to watch it with some friends, or people who've never seen it before, you'd bump up that grade again.

....say WORK SHED.

TheUsualSuspect

03-16-09, 01:36 AM

The Evil Dead - 3.5+
I still don't think it's scary one bit, but then again, I don't find many older horror movies that everyone considers really scary, to be scary at all. I don't know, I guess it was just scary if you saw them back when they first released, and in today's time, they really aren't that scary at all. I guess that would mean horror movies released today are supposed to be scary though, and The Strangers was the first horror movie that I've seen in awhile that actually scared me.

The trouble with watching older horror movies for the first time is that what was scary then, has been done to death today. I don't know how old you are, but I'll guess teens. You grew up in the era of horror films that were not really original (don't worry me too) and every time you watched one it was a rehash of something better.

Once you see the original one, it doesn't seem as 'epic' or in this case 'scary' because you've seen it before.

Not to mention society is getting darker and darker every day.

Iroquois

03-16-09, 01:41 AM

The Evil Dead was the first horror film I ever saw, back when I was about 14 or 15 years old

At 19, I still reckon it's scary.

zedlen

03-16-09, 01:43 AM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2324/2224236081_01552b6df5.jpg

Five Easy Pieces (1970)

Five Easy Pieces is a serious drama with moments of comedy. When the viewer is first introduced to Bobby (Nicholson) hes becoming frustrated with his job, waitress girlfriend and life in general. As the movie progresses slowly his motives and back story are made clear. The traffic jam and dinner scenes are truly funny. The plot is solid but the movie does move slowly at times. Overall another great performance by Nicholson.

http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/3.5box.gif

meatwadsprite

03-16-09, 02:41 AM

http://tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:LxFOoZefbCKbDM:http://media.movieweb.com/news/10.2007/evilDeadUltimate.jpg

I really can't stand The Evil Dead , not even because it's poorly acted and has clay monsters - but it's just annoying. It really the most annoying film I've seen.

http://tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:Rw8iGJ5qhZx_4M:http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/2834/evildead1md8.jpg - I wouldn't frown upon this movie , if they killed her a couple hundred times for never shutting her gigantic zombie mouth.

http://tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:KTAhWRCDp6K-SM:http://www.soundtrackcollector.com/images/movie/large/Evil_Dead_II.jpg

The second one was a gigantic improvement , it looked a hundred times better and had crazy energetic camera work - although completely hinged on cheap scares the whole way.

http://tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:vRYbqBWKp0sVfM:http://stzznfornorzzn.weblog.com/files/members/24918/army%2520of%2520darkness.jpg

This one I really enjoyed , it has nothing in common with the predecessors - it's a complete horror/comedy with the stuff missing from the first two (characters , narrative , excitement). It also has even better camera-work than the second ! Come on now , you can't compare the others to this.

http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:c8-891tLOl2vLM:http://adamriggins.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/bruce-army-of-darkness.jpg - Now I can shoot that annoying bitch from the first one !

Lennon

03-16-09, 06:37 AM

http://tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:Rw8iGJ5qhZx_4M:http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/2834/evildead1md8.jpg - I wouldn't frown upon this movie , if they killed her a couple hundred times for never shutting her gigantic zombie mouth.

You see, that was actually my favorite part of the movie, just something about her voice and the way she acted freaked me out.

TheUsualSuspect

03-16-09, 12:30 PM

She was suppose to be annoying. Go watch Evil Dead: The Musical (not a movie, a stage musical) it is one of the funniest things I've ever seen.

Sedai

03-16-09, 01:18 PM

The Ninth Gate (Polanski, 1999) 4

http://images.allmoviephoto.com/2000_The_Ninth_Gate/emmanuelle_seigner_the_ninth_gate_001.jpg

Gattaca (Niccol, 1997) 4_5

http://www.scene-stealers.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/20070509-ethan-hawke-gattaca.jpg

Saw III (Bousman, 2006) 1

http://www.mcnblogs.com/filmfatale/saw3nudityi.jpg

Not sure why, but I randomly put Saw III on OnDemand late last night in some severe lapse of sanity and intelligence. Terrible ****. I hate how these films put on a facade of having a moral play, when there isn't a moral frame in thew entire film. They made FIVE of these films?? :sick:

TheDOMINATOR

03-16-09, 01:35 PM

Martian Child - 3.5+

http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/9652/martian.jpg

I was quite surprised; for an "okayish"-sounding romantic comedy/drama, Martian Child was really good. The film is about a novelist who writes science fiction that adopts a young boy who actually believes he is a Martian. John Cusack and the kid's chemistry is fantastic, and several scenes throughout the movie are emotionally gripping, despite the ending being a little weak compared to basically everything in the beginning and middle of the film. I was engrossed in the story throughout, and, had it not been for that somewhat of a let-down climax among a few other minor things here and there, I would have given it a 4.

Clue - 4

http://hillbuzz.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/clue-dvd.jpg

Clue was long overdue for a rewatch. Extremely funny, great acting, and a plethora of very clever twists and turns. Coincidentally, like Martian Child, the climax wasn't quite on par with the rest of the film (it wasn't quite as funny--and it tried to be--or as good overall), but it was still very enjoyable to watch everything in it unfold. All the performances were a great pleasure to watch. I liked it a lot.

A Midsummer Night's Dream - 2.5

http://personal.cityu.edu.hk/~enrodney/Shakespeare/A-Midsummer-Nights-Dream-Poster-C12044865.jpeg.jpg

I don't have much to say other than this: mixed feelings. I've only just started reading the play the film is based on, so I'll have to continue reading that to further develop my thoughts on the movie. I didn't understand everything that was going on--Shakespeare's language can be difficult to follow--but even of what I did follow, it didn't seem to be strikingly interesting or funny (the film being a comedy).

MovieMan8877445

03-16-09, 05:48 PM

The trouble with watching older horror movies for the first time is that what was scary then, has been done to death today. I don't know how old you are, but I'll guess teens. You grew up in the era of horror films that were not really original (don't worry me too) and every time you watched one it was a rehash of something better.

Once you see the original one, it doesn't seem as 'epic' or in this case 'scary' because you've seen it before.

Not to mention society is getting darker and darker every day.

I think that's pretty much it, but even most of the horror movies that come out today really don't scare me much anymore. Like I said, The Strangers one of the first horror movies in awhile to actually really scare me; it actually made me had trouble sleeping after I watched it for the first time. No horror movie has done that for me since I was a kid, and even back then, very few movies like Child's Play or Halloween did that for me. I doubt those'll even scare me if I were to watch them today.

There's still a lot of horror movies that I have to see though. I don't even think I've seen that many horror movies; I mean, I watched them some as a kid, but never really got into them until recently.

The Evil Dead was the first horror film I ever saw, back when I was about 14 or 15 years old

At 19, I still reckon it's scary.

Really, it took you 14 years to see your first horror movie? I mean I didn't start to like them until recently, and I'm 15 right now, but I did see quite a few horror movies before I was 15.

MovieMan8877445

03-16-09, 08:39 PM

Army Of Darkness - 4

This is definitely the most silly out of the entire trilogy, and it's just so freaking cool. This is probably the most fun out of the trilogy, but I still prefer Evil Dead II over this. I think this and The Evil Dead are about tied for me, because I can't chose which one I like better; I do know that I like Evil Dead II more than both though. I do want to point out that, this one probably makes the most sense out of the three of them. I was confused during parts of the first two, but I wasn't confused once during this. The only parts that seemed to confuse me is the beginnings of the first two; I think it may be because of what someone told me about the Evil Dead trilogy earlier today. It seemed like they were trying to take the trilogy in a new direction with this one though, and it worked IMO.

Bruce Campbell is super awesome though, and Ash Williams may be one of the coolest movie characters ever. I think this is the movie where Ash got most of his one-liner's from, like "Groovy" or "the name's Ash: Houseware" - those were my two favorite one-liner's from this. If you're trying to look for an enjoyable movie to watch though, I'd definitely recommend checking this one out, because I'm sure you'll have a fun time. I highly recommend checking out the trilogy if you haven't had a chance to yet.

http://adamriggins.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/bruce-army-of-darkness.jpg

zedlen

03-16-09, 09:11 PM

Iroquois

03-17-09, 12:02 AM

Really, it took you 14 years to see your first horror movie? I mean I didn't start to like them until recently, and I'm 15 right now, but I did see quite a few horror movies before I was 15.

Is it really so hard to believe? Nobody in my immediate or extended family were horror fans and even if they were, they weren't about to let me see any. To be truthful, I have honestly no idea if I saw any horror before then (doubt it, though), but The Evil Dead marks the first time I ever consciously watched a horror film from start to finish, therefore I just go along with calling it the first horror film I ever saw.

MovieMan8877445

03-17-09, 12:26 AM

The Happening - 4+

Easily Shymalan's most underrated movie so far; I mean this movie gets so much crap for no reason, to me at least. I loved it, sadly I think I'm in the minority with this one. There were some things that I didn't like, for example some parts seemed too rushed. Like the: "we lost contact with everyone" line, I mean that had real potential to be a very ominous feeling line; even though I still think it was, it was sort of ruined by a quick cut to another line by Julian. This really does have one of the best, if not the best, ominous feeling score that I've ever heard. The score really added a lot to this, some scenes wouldn't have nearly been as great without James Newton Howard's score added to it. It's like that for quite a bit of Shymalan's movies, actually most of them wouldn't be nearly as great without Howard's score.

One of the main complaints that this movie seems to get is from the acting. I personally think it's pretty great, at least for the main actors, the minor character's could've done better. Wahlberg, Deschanel, and Leguizamo did a really great job for the most part. Leguizamo especially, I mean right when he was leaving the rest of the group to go to Princetown, when he's saying goodbye to them, his acting really seemed to shine. There were some characters that I wish would've been in the movie more, like the real estate agent for one; I mean the dude seems to just disappear and he's never seen in the movie again, and never really implied if anything ever happened to him. This movie is truely shocking for what it shows though; I mean the stuff that they show in this could happen at any time. Which is the main thing that freaks me out about this; for all I know, something like this could suddenly happen tomorrow, with the way our enviroment is looking. Shymalan made a crisis that's going on now, and made a movie to show what could possibly happen beacuse of it, and I get it. This movie is truely great, and I honestly don't see why people just seem to automatically hate it so much, but then again, a lot of people just seem to hate Shymalan in general for some reason. Personally, he's one of my favorite director's, probably in my top 3.

http://smartcine.com/images/the_happening_still.jpg

Harry Lime

03-17-09, 01:52 AM

Well, I disagree on so many levels in regards to The Happening, but I'm not going to get into it. I like Shyamalan's first three films, but not his last three.

zedlen

03-17-09, 05:20 AM

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/3_5box.gif

http://www.webbox.org/cgi/pix-content/1969%20A%20Space%20Odyssey%202001%20clip.jpg

Ive always been a science-fiction fan but it seems I missed 2001 somehow, so I had big hopes when I sat down to watch this. I understand that for a film that was released in 68' its was ahead of its field, in context, sound and visuals. The movie moved slowly and seemed to be reaching a conclusion when it hopped to the next portion of the plot and left questions unanswered, that was frustrating. As a concept documentary/film it works, and held my interest even though the plot and ending are vague and open ended not delivering much explanation. After reading up on the novel I felt the film could have been better if it revealed a little more of the original story. Maybe not "the best movie ever made" in my opinion but for its time a remarkable one.

Dusk Till Dawn (1996) http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/3box.gif

http://aycu25.webshots.com/image/49384/2001067786765895654_rs.jpg

This was the first time I'd seen Dusk Till Dawn, I was under the impression it would be a real horror film not a comedy disguised as a horror film. In a way I'm disappointed I think it would have been particuarlly good with out the laughs. It still works in a over-the-top cheesy way and it is only the second half that is less serious. A great cast if only they had more time onscreen together, everything moves pretty fast. Entertaining and dark, good for a laugh.

RocknRolla (2008) http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/3box.gif

http://www.toddhamilton.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/rocknrolla.jpg

Snatch and Lock, Stock are some of my favorite movies. When I heard Riche was releasing a new film I was genuinely excited and I can't say its lived up to my expectations. Some great laughs, great cast, a few good action sequences but over all its not equal to Snatch or Lock, Stock.The plot itself was worn a bit thin, another stolen object and even stealing from Pulp Fiction (whats in the suitcase, whats the painting of). I think Gerald Butler makes a better leading man then Mark Strong (even though I enjoyed his character) and felt Riche should have picked one instead of hopping between them. Jeremy Piven, Ludacris, Tom Hardy, Toby Kebbell and Tom Wilkinson all do a good job. For fans of Riche its still a must see.

zenderella

03-17-09, 06:12 AM

Today so far I've watched

Forces of Nature (1999)
http://www.suzzdvd.com/suzz/output/images/thumbnail/forces-poster-web.jpg

Human Traffic (1999)
http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Vista/2471/dvds/human_traffic.jpg

Sneakers (1992)
http://www.qwipster.net/sneakers.jpg

re93animator

03-17-09, 06:40 AM

http://i43.tinypic.com/bg4g7s.jpg
The Punisher: War Zone

The Punisher: War Zone is strictly a b-movie action/crime flick, in which case guilty pleasure seems to be the most fitting categorization to bestow it with. The main goal of War Zone is by no means to stand out among great cinematic achievements. It’s a b-movie and it tries to be the best and most entertaining b-movie it can be, which in this case involves a seemingly invincible man tearing through a bunch of gangsters with apparent ease.
http://i44.tinypic.com/2i7s0zo.jpg
I’ll commence by stating that it is a very enjoyable action flick. The stunts, fights, and shoot-outs are all an action fan would want them to be. Its unique visual design is surprisingly impressive. The colorful lighting brings together a dark, gritty comic book feeling to the film. The violence is non-stop and this film is certainly not for the squeamish. It includes everything from heads getting blown off to entire bodies being dismembered, all shown in gruesome detail.
http://i41.tinypic.com/2vl7blx.jpg
Frank Castle (better known as The Punisher) is an unstoppable one man wrecking crew that “punishes” those who he feels are deserving of punishment. Not until he runs into a hot-shot criminal named Billy Russoti (who is later known as Jigsaw) does he have any trouble dealing with the bad guys. Russoti (also known as Billy the Beaut in the opening minutes of the film) is proud of his good looks until he runs into Frank Castle who brutally scars his precious face. Russoti then plans on extracting his revenge on Castle.
http://i42.tinypic.com/63zugx.jpg
Having seen both prior film adaptions of the Punisher, I personally found the most enjoyment from War Zone. Thomas Jane made a fantastic characterization in a not-so fantastic film with the 2004 version; and giving Jane’s punisher a run for his money is Ray Stevenson who seemed to fit the role of the deadly vigilante damn near perfectly. Stevenson’s actions and lines were delivered with minimal flaw. Comparing the two most famous portrayals of the Punisher (the lesser known portrayal done in the 1989 film by Dolph Lundgren); Stevenson is the better anti-hero; or the better bad ass, while Jane’s punisher felt more realistic; more human.
http://i42.tinypic.com/2jd2mpd.png
In the end of the film the viewer is left with a sense of satisfaction from seeing the good guy tear through the enemies to save the day. The film is not for everyone, though it will do more than satisfy those who crave excessive guns, blood, and violence in their movies.3

Used Future

03-17-09, 07:32 AM

The Evil Dead - 3.5+
http://www.best-horror-movies.com/images/Evil-Dead-Ash-choking.jpg

Sorry to be pedantic, just felt I should mention that this is a picture from part II not the original;)

rice1245

03-17-09, 09:07 AM

Is it really so hard to believe? Nobody in my immediate or extended family were horror fans and even if they were, they weren't about to let me see any. To be truthful, I have honestly no idea if I saw any horror before then (doubt it, though), but The Evil Dead marks the first time I ever consciously watched a horror film from start to finish, therefore I just go along with calling it the first horror film I ever saw.

wow that is a little bit hard to believe actually lol i watched Halloween movies in elementary school and most notably i snuck into a showing of Saw when i was 13 and loved it especially when the ending came rolling around but then i had to pretend like i hadn't seen it around my house because my mom wouldn't have let me =\

undercoverlover

03-17-09, 09:25 AM

I rarely watch horror films now and im 21. Though I did see the exorcist (through covered eyes) when i was 14. I havent seen a great deal of the 'really should' horror films like Halloween, Friday 13th, Psycho, Nightmare on Elm Street etc. I know thats pretty bad to deny an entire genre, but on the whole I don't like to be scared, id rather laugh my a$$ off for 2 hours than be scared for 2 hours.

Golgot

03-17-09, 12:02 PM

http://www.iwatchstuff.com/2008/04/30/burn-after-reading-pitt.jpg

Burn After Reading

Bit of a pout pourri number, but with that familiar Cohen Bro 'carrion flower' scent throughout. Best way to summarise it is through some talking head snippets from the DVD extras (i paraphrase) - 'Central Intelligence Agency meets personal fitness'; 'It's all about people in their 30s'; 'Stupid people, and sex'.

Not entirely satisfactory blend in some ways. Perhaps the espionage aspect leaves you wanting more ends to be tied up. ('What have we learnt', a high-up spook asks at the end, and i had to ask the same). And using 'stoopidity' as a plot driver can be a touch annoying at times. But it's got a charismatic cast, some classy points of tension and release, and is a fine one to slump in front of at the end of the day.

Sedai

03-17-09, 12:23 PM

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a314/zedlen/mononoke.jpg

Princess Mononoke (1997) http://www.movieforums.com/community/../images/popcorn/3.5box.gif

I am a fan of Studio Gibili and this one of the only movies I hadn't seen. Princess Mononoke was a bit too similar to Nausicaa of the Vally of the Wind so it didn't stand out that much. Enjoyable and still a great movie in its own right.

I can't agree. Although the themes are similar in some aspects, Nausicaa falls into a couple of traps that make it the lesser piece for me. Then ending isn't well done in Nausicaa, and I thought the silly exposition with the characters just sort of sitting around talking to themselves was cheap. I also thought the writing left something to be desired, with the dialogue being sort of ******. Also, I think Miazaki's artwork is MUCH better in pretty much all his later films, with Mononoke standing out as some of the best and most fluid. I have issues with Mononoke, too, but I think it is overall a much better film. The themes are definitely similar though, so Nausicaa did that first, it just didn't do it as well.

adidasss

03-17-09, 12:46 PM

Werd. Still my favorite Miyazaki...:yup:

Used Future

03-17-09, 05:26 PM

http://www.iwatchstuff.com/2008/04/30/burn-after-reading-pitt.jpg

Burn After Reading
.

Ha! I liked this one too, in a forgettable kind of way. It was just one big shaggy dog story that went nowhere really, but boy did it have me belly laughing in a couple of scenes. Plus, am I the only one who thinks Pitt should take more comedy roles? He was hilarious in this.

MovieMan8877445

03-17-09, 05:34 PM

Sorry to be pedantic, just felt I should mention that this is a picture from part II not the original;)

Yeah, I know, but I couldn't find a pic of the first one for some reason.

Used Future

03-17-09, 05:49 PM

Yeah, I know, but I couldn't find a pic of the first one for some reason.

Perhaps you could have used the poster or put a note underneath. But really, it's no big deal:)

zedlen

03-17-09, 09:00 PM

I can't agree. Although the themes are similar in some aspects, Nausicaa falls into a couple of traps that make it the lesser piece for me. Then ending isn't well done in Nausicaa, and I thought the silly exposition with the characters just sort of sitting around talking to themselves was cheap. I also thought the writing left something to be desired, with the dialogue being sort of ******. Also, I think Miazaki's artwork is MUCH better in pretty much all his later films, with Mononoke standing out as some of the best and most fluid. I have issues with Mononoke, too, but I think it is overall a much better film. The themes are definitely similar though, so Nausicaa did that first, it just didn't do it as well.

I do watch Miazaki's films for the beautiful visuals but after seeing Mononoke I realized how much the story is my primary focus. There are too many similarities, the central characters are almost identical, the nature vs industry/humans theme is central in both, the waring clans/tribes, a strong female villain and the 'demons'/enraged bugs share so many things. Mononoke is more or less a reimagining of Nausicaa. I agree that Mononoke is a much better film I just wish I hadn't seen Nausicaa first.

zedlen

03-17-09, 09:01 PM

Powdered Water

03-18-09, 12:53 AM

Watching Darby O'Gill and the Little People right now. Should be a hoot! The Wife loves it. I've never had the pleasure. Sean Connery looks so young.

Anywho some more movies...

The Unborn (David S. Goyer - 2009) 2.5

Relatively ho-hum. Your basic dumbed down version of The Exorcist. But man o' sakes alive was the lead girl a little hottie! Sort of a Jessica Alba wannabe and believe me that's a good thing. But yeah, the flick itself is pretty mediocre. I didn't really expect much though so I didn't hate it.

Escape to Witch Mountain (John Hough - 1975) 3.5

I've probably seen this flick about 10 times, all of the previous viewings were before the age of 12 during the wonderful world of Disney on Sunday nights when I was growing up. I stayed up past my bedtime several times to watch this and several other Disney movies back then, but this is still one of my favorites. Its such a fun little lighthearted story and of course I just loved 'Winky' the cat.

Return From Witch Mountain (John Hough - 1978) 2.5

A better cast but not nearly as fun and charming as the first installment. I'm pretty sure I've never seen this before. I was pretty shocked to see not only Bette Davis but also Christopher Lee in this. What a trip. Bette sure looked old. 70, by my estimation. Pretty good but not as fun as the first. I wonder if the new one will be any good.

Iroquois

03-18-09, 02:08 AM

http://www.sweden.se/upload/Sweden_se/english/articles/SI/2006%20uppdaterad/Swedish%20children%E2%80%99s%20culture%20takes%20the%20stage%20in%20London/show_me_love_sweden2.jpg

Show Me Love (Moodysson, 1998) - 3

I loved this film when I saw it for the first time around this time last year, but now I'm starting to get tired of it. Between the amateur-ish photography (complete with the most painfully obvious use of zooms this side of Enter the Dragon), mediocre dialogue and a largely cringeworthy soundtrack full of the crap soft-rock I assume that teenagers in the '90s thought was cool (with the sole exception being the use of Foreigner's I Want To Know What Love Is, I've actually begun to realise just how heavily flawed Show Me Love actually is. Granted, there's still a part of me that reckons this film belongs on the right side of 2.5 but who knows, maybe if I watch it again the same time next year, it may go down even further. Shame, really. Oh, well.

http://plancksconstant.org/blog1/image3/sub4/elmergantry.jpg

Elmer Gantry (Brooks, 1960) - 4

Despite being made in the early 1960s and set in the early 1930s, I'm amazed at how Elmer Gantry and its treatment of religion (or rather, the "revivalist" movements that branched off from the core concept of religion) still seem to hold up well in the eyes of somebody who was born in the early 1990s. Such is the strength of the story, especially when brought to life by a handful of great, perfectly believable actors - and of course, Burt Lancaster as the eponymous Gantry. Based on this and Sweet Smell of Success, I've started to realise that he's actually a very good actor with great screen presence, and it makes me want to check out more of his films now.

TheDOMINATOR

03-18-09, 03:59 AM

Dragon Wars - 2

http://www.dvdcult.com/IMAGES/dwars.gif

Well, despite reading horrible reviews and hearing dreadful things about Dragon Wars from friends,I just had to see it for myself. And.....*sigh*. The acting was awful, the story was paper-thin, and the action--while really cool in some places--was way overdone. Way too many lengthy action sequences and not enough story or substance.

It was somewhat of a pleasure to watch on Blu-ray (yes, I actually purchased it on Blu-ray...but at least I got it on sale, heh), but I probably won't be watching it again.

Rock My World - 4+

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/7721/282917det.jpg

As I'm getting closer and closer to completing my Top 100 Favorite Films list (which I've been working on for the better part of two months now), I'm rewatching a bunch of movies that I know I like a lot but don't remember completely. I'm doing this for confirmation that I want to include these films in question on the list, and Rock My World aced that test with flying colors. An awesome dramatic comedy with great performances, plenty of fun humor, and a story that's simply inspiring to watch unfold.

18 Again! - 3+

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/3450/18againdvd.jpg

I had seen 18 Again! once before and I felt it was time to revisit it, and I found the film to be a pleasure to watch a second time. 18 Again! is a heartwarming comedy about an eighty-one year-old man who "switches bodies" with his eighteen-year-old grandson and, as a result, temporarily live each others' lives. It's a movie about self-discovery, and I feel it delivered its theme very well. A very good movie, despite a few so-so spots throughout.

christine

03-18-09, 01:58 PM

Persepolis (Marjane Satrapi & Vincent Paronnaud, 2007) 4

http://www.plume-noire.com/gif&co/poster/persepolis.jpg

This captivating French animation wonder, based on Satrapi's semi-autobiographical graphic novels, is a sharp combination of Iranian history, political awareness, a coming-of-age story, love of family, and some intriguing animation techniques. It tells the story, in flashbacks, of Marjane's life in Iran under both the Shah and the fundamentalist "Islamic Republic" and during the Iraq-Iran War, as well as her times spent in Europe where she always felt to be a fish out of water. Whether you're aware of Iran's history during the last 80 or so years or not, this is a fascinating perspective, but it's much more alive and humorous than any history lesson could be.

http://electricityandlust.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/persepolis.jpg

One thing which is totally unique, at least to me, about Persepolis is that it's a mostly 2-D animated piece of art which is heavily inspired by film noir. Most of the film is in black and white, with major use of shadows. Although it is full of funny moments concerning family and growing up, there is a threat of danger and violence during each step the film takes. The film also uses a surrealistic approach occasionally, especially during scenes involving drugs and the Kafkaesque nightmare in which women and non-fundamentalists find themselves in the Iran of the later 20th century.

http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/071219/bestmovies/persepolis_l.jpg

Before I make the film sound too much of a downer, I need to add that I laughed out loud several times. Many of these involved Marjane's unlucky attempts to find a boyfriend. Her grandmother is also a foul-mouthed lady who teaches her about integrity, but she and Marjane both swear quite a bit, and it actually is very funny to hear them say things you couldn't really imagine. (Don't get too worried though; sure, it's an adult-themed film, but it's only rated PG-13.) There are also many touching moments involving Marjane's family, often because the family has always been Marxist and therefore, they've always had family members in jail or killed. Not that you need me to explain this, but in general, everyone, regardless of their politics or religion, is a human being. It's just that sometimes people act much more inhuman than they realize. This film shows things in a realistic light in my mind, and so it's nice to remember that people throughout the world share more similarities than they do differences. Oh yeah, did I mention that the animation techniques and the music are groovy? I especially liked Marjane's crazy interpretation of "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor. :cool:

Great review Mark. I just caught up with this film on dvd and agree with your thoughts. I laughed a lot too, but it was the sheer exuberance of Marjane coupled with her resiliance that won me over. If anyone watches this it's well worth seeing the 'making of' to appreciate the amount of work that goes into producing an old fashioned hand drawn animation like this one, as well as seeing Marjane and the mark she makes on everyone around her.

Harry Lime

03-19-09, 12:09 AM

I'm watching Spiderman 2 again, J.K. Simmons steals every scene he's in.

MovieMan8877445

03-19-09, 12:11 AM

http://www.filmbuffonline.com/Reviews/Images/KillBillVol1.1.jpg

Kill Bill, Vol. 1
Quentin Tarantino, 2003

I haven't watched this in awhile, so I thought that it was time to give it another watch. I loved it just as much as I remember, much like every other one of Tarantino's movies. His films are perfect, IMO, and while he may not be my favorite director, he's sure either my second or third. Right from the very start I knew this was going to be something special. One of the best things about this is it's over-the-top violence, except for the first fight between the Bride and Vernita. Everyother fight was really over-the-top, especially the Crazy 88's battle. People were getting their arms and legs chopped off, and blood was squirting out of them like a giezer. It's definitely over-the-top. This is probably Tarantino's most 'actiony' movie so far, but even this didn't totally focus on action. As I remember though, there really wasn't much action in volume 2 at all.

Uma Thurman was the perfect choice for the role of the Bride. She's probably one of the greatest characters of all-time, to me at least. I do wish Gogo could've had more fighting time though, because I thought she was a really cool fighter. I did really notice a similarty between the opening fight of this, and the opening fight of Watchmen, though. It seems like they were done in the same style. I knew the beginning fight in Watchmen did seem like a fight out of Kill Bill, especially in both when they start using a knife. It's like they were exactly the same.

Even though, I already own both volume 1 and 2, I still may buy The Whole Bloody Affair once it comes out on DVD. It's actually supposed to be released pretty soon, if I remember that article that was released recently correctly. I think it may have just been more rumor's though. I'm really not sure if we'll ever get it, actually. Any fan of Tarantino would definitely love this, but I'm sure most Tarantino fans would've have seen it by now. I sadly didn't get the chance of seeing it until a few months back. I think any movie fan would enjoy this movie, though, even if you aren't a fan of Tarantino. I really can't wait to watch volume 2 again tomorrow night; I would've watched it tonight, but I didn't have enough time.

5

Justin

03-19-09, 12:25 AM

Trouble Every Day (Denis,2001) - 4

http://10.media.tumblr.com/PrbyDnKQQjbvkp1aOWtYlYh6o1_500.png

After hearing much about Trouble Every Day, and considering how much I loved L'Intrus, I thought I would give it a go. Now, a fair warning to all of those who choose to watch this: it is very, very disturbing. Trouble Every Day follows Shane and June Brown on their honeymoon to Paris. Shane has a "mysterious" condition, and he longs to find the cure. Eventually, he meets another individual (the seductress Core) with the same condition.

Denis does a wonderful job at creating tone and atmosphere. Agnes Godard (she does almost all of, if not all of Denis' cinematography) creates some amazingly moody cinematography. Godard created some absolutely blissful cinematography in L'Intrus and it carries over very well. Each scene seems to almost be lit by natural sources, which is something I like very much. She manages to bring a very strong visial color palette with the moody cinematography mixed with the (almost) natural-esque lighting.However, in some cases I found that the musical choices conflicted slightly with the overall film; but not to the point of ruining anything.

Denis' narrative is always very experimental. For example, there is hardly any dialogue in L'Intrus - the same is true for Trouble Every Day. This is something I really admire. Denis clearly refuses to utilize exposition and linear script structures - she asks a lot of us. But the difficulty of her narrative is what makes it much interesting. Often times, in either film, we may not "totally understand" what direction the film is heading - which is perfectly fine. She requires us to think and mull over each action without dialogue, and without the needless exposition. Many might prefer the more linear, structured nature of conventional films, but I encourage even those who do to give it a shot. Denis' experimental narrative is what I've always admired and has kept me interested.

Now, the acting left a little to be desired. I am not a huge fan of Gallo in acting form, but he isn't terrible here. Sometimes he doesn't seem to be paying much attention as to what's going on - but somehow, he does manage to "fit" the film. Beatrice Dalle, however, was great - per usual. She did wonderfully with what little she had in L'Intrus, and having more to work with this time really paid off well for her.

Overall, a fine film; however, I will say that I still love L'Intrus much more. I do think that this film has a bad reputation and can be misleading given the content of the work, as it involves cannibalism, but on a much deeper level it's about society's moral decay, sexual urges, and love.

Recommended (assuming you can handle the content of the film).

mark f

03-19-09, 01:07 AM

Harry Lime

03-19-09, 01:12 AM

I guess I am one of the few who liked Elephant.

mark f

03-19-09, 01:22 AM

Maybe or maybe you're just "young at heart".

Justin

03-19-09, 02:09 PM

Very interesting, Justin. You also mentioned that you prefer Paranoid Park to Milk. I found that Milk allowed Van Sant to get his avant garde filmmaking techniques into mainstream films, especially his editing and photographic flourishes near the beginning. I found Paranoid Park a minor step up from Elephant and Gerry, but I still don't find it storytelling at all. It's cinematic, but it doesn't tell a story, at least to me.

Milk did allow Van Sant to showcase his avant-garde techniques, absolutely. There are avant-garde aspects, but the film itself is very ordinary. I hope this isn't as confusing as I think it will be to read, but my opinion is Milk is very mixed.

While watching the film, I kept getting the feeling that his experimental techniques were trying to break out, but the nature of the screenplay and the overall film was far too restrictive; basically, his talent felt very "caged". Technically, it's well done. But as a story, it's far too conventional and ordinary - almost to the point of boredom. Paranoid Park, by contrast, would not have worked if Van Sant had used a more conventional screenplay and done away with the very "uncinematic" feel of the overall film. That's why I think Milk is a little weak and why I have a problem with it; it's conventional narrative is in conflict with it's experimental aesthetic. Van Sant didn't seem to know which way to take the film; he needed (in my opinion) to pick.

Justin

03-19-09, 07:05 PM

A nos amours (Pialat,1983) - 3.5

http://www.thelifecinematic.com/filmcaps/amours.jpg

A nos amours tells the story of a 15 year old promiscuous girl. However, the problem is, that she doesn't necessarily have any feelings for any of these boys. She does it for fun. At home, her dysfunctional family doesn't understand her behavior and constantly give her beatings; both physically and vocally.

Now, I have very mixed feelings about the cinematography. There were some very authentically beautiful moments and visuals, but several scenes are almost ruined by some - in my opinion, anyway - poor directorial choices and bad technical work. Most of the cinematography consists of medium-wide shots (wide shots from the waist up, usually). I found this to be an awesome directorial decision. We can clearly tell by these choices what the Pialat is saying - very rarely do we see any extreme close-ups. A majority of the frames do not move, and are stationary and very meticulously placed. That much was very, very well-done. Now, what bothered me considerably was the use of the dolly and dolly-zoom. This was extremely bothersome and ultimately very distracting. It was almost infuriating to see such great cinematography marred by irritating, quick dolly movements that didn't necessarily need to be there in the first place. I'm not fond of dolly-zooms or dollyshots to begin with, but they can be used properly. What seems to cause these shot choices not to work would be the lack of movement in the characters - it's much more noticeable in this case.

Either the acting is stellar, or leaves a lot to be desired with A nos amours. Sandrine Bonnaire was fantastic, as usual. Her role required tremendous subtly, and she lived up to it and surpassed it. Sandrine managed to convey everything she needed to with her eyes and features. Another remarkable performance was Cyr Boitard, as Luc. Despite the fact we only see him a few times, he does a wonderful job. Both Sandrine and Cyr are capable of expressing themselves without the theatrics and melodrama. Now, two performances that were completely unbelievable were both the brother and the mother. They both seemed to be far to theatrical, and less natural. For that reason, I didn't buy their relationship at all. It seemed completely unreal. However, some of the most intense moments were still felt because of Sandrine's wonderful performance. Sandrine's father in A nos amours was also quite good - their more "quiet" moments were extremely well done. So, for the most part the acting is good. But several moments were almost ruined due to several poor performances.

Overall, a nice film. Try and not let my rating fool you. I did like the film a lot; it was very well-done, but ultimately very uneven. Some serious issues are brought up in the film and handled wonderfully. It deals with how a dysfunctional, abusive family can have huge repercussions on a person's life and their ability to love another and to feel loved in return.

Recommended.

MovieMan8877445

03-20-09, 12:31 AM

http://www.offoffoff.com/film/2004/images/killbill2.jpg

Kill Bill, Vol. 2
Quentin Tarantino, 2004

You know, even though I've seen volume 1 numerous times now, I think this was only my second viewing of volume 2. I honestly have no idea why though, because I think I may even prefer this one to volume 1. They were always about equal for me, but with this viewing, it just seemed better to me. Not like a lot better, but still better nonetheless. I did notice some similarities between the score for this and the score for The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly, but that's Quentin Tarantino for you. He loves to pay homage to many of other movies in his movies, but he's still one of my all-time favorite directors. Another thing I noticed, even though it has really nothing to do with the movie, is that Michael Madson really looks pretty old in this. I mean in Reservior Dogs, which he did 12 years before this, he looked in his 20's maybe early 30's, and in this, he looked to be in his 50's. I'm sure he looks even older by now. He was still one of my favorite characters of the series, though, right behind Beatrix and Bill.

This one really focused a lot more on story than the first one did, even though the first one did focus a lot on story. There was much more action in the first, while there was barely in this, aside from a couple of scenes. Tarantino is really a genius at filmmaking, and he shouldn't stop until he really has to. This is really making me want to go re-watch the rest of his movies now, and I still have Jackie Brown to see for the first time. It's also seeming to up my hype for Ingourious Basterds. Anyone who hasn't seen the series yet should get to it sometime soon, though. I really thought it was weird how they split up the two movies, I mean, even though timing would've been off, they shoud've taken the first hour from this and added it to volume 1. Because I feel the first half of this had the mood from volume 1, but the second half just completely changes the tone. It really wouldn't have worked though, because it would have made volume 1: 3 hours long, and volume 2: barely an hour long.

5

Iroquois

03-20-09, 02:24 AM

I watched all three of these films for the same reason - I picked up the soundtrack albums for every one of them the other day.

http://images.chron.com/blogs/specialfeatures/archives/beavis.jpg

Beavis and Butt-Head Do America (Judge, 1996) - 3.5

I doubt my rating for this will ever change. It's amusing all right, but it never feels truly great (unlike the South Park movie, for example) and it's really just a mindless way to pass an hour or so.

http://films.estefanfilms.com/trainspotting2.jpg

Trainspotting (Boyle, 1996) - 4.5

Still pretty good, a fast-paced and visually striking piece of cinema.

http://www.celluloid-dreams.de/content/images/kritiken-filmbilder/lost-highway/lost-highway-2.jpg

Lost Highway (Lynch, 1997) - 4

Yeah, I'm in the minority that doesn't reckon this film was crap. Nothing I can say to change anyone's mind about it - I'll just say that I actually enjoy watching it, purely and honestly.

Lennon

03-20-09, 02:26 AM

Woah, I'm forever staying away from that last movie. That picture creeps me out man.

Iroquois

03-20-09, 02:31 AM

Wuss. Get some Lynch into you.

meatwadsprite

03-20-09, 09:51 AM

Movieman you should check out Takeshi's Zatoichi film if you really enjoyed Kill Bill. The sword fights are much more realistic in Takeshi's , but they both have the same exaggerated blood.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhfAX58AaAg

The story telling is done in a much different style though , the american trailer is hilariously misleading.

MovieMan8877445

03-20-09, 05:41 PM

MovieMan8877445

03-21-09, 02:41 AM

http://www.thegentlemanscup.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/chl-eggs.jpg

Cool Hand Luke
Stuart Rosenberg, 1967

I don't know, before I watched this, I was just expecting something different than what it actually was. It was way more simpler than I thought it was going to be, but that isn't a bad thing. I did feel that it seemed to get sort of slow during the second half, which is why this isn't a full perfect score from me. I really, really loved the first half, and if the whole movie was like the first half, my score would've been a perfect score. It might've gotten a bit tedious if the whole movie was like that. The best thing about the second half was that it really helped Newman's acting really shine. Like his acting in the second half was incredible, but still not as incredible as in Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid. No movie of his that I see will ever top his performance in that. I really liked Newman's best friend, Dragline, in this though. I think he was my favorite character in the whole movie, even more than Luke. George Kennedy did a great job with that role.

This movie is really a true classic, and I don't see how you couldn't call it a true classic. I really can't wait to continue seeing more of Newman's movies though, because he's truely an amazing actor. If you haven't had a chance to check this one out yet, I'd highly recommend it, especially if you like Newman. I would probably call this my second favorite prison movie, right after The Shawshank Redemption, and maybe The Green Mile.

4.5

MovieMan8877445

03-21-09, 07:22 PM

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Quarantine
John Erick Dowdle, 2008

It's no secret that I love zombie type movies, they're actually one of my favorite types of movies, so I knew that I was going to enjoy this. I've seen some better zombie movies though. I have no problem with the shaky camera type of filming, but the ending to this really gave me a headache. I mean Cloverfield is one of my favorite movies, but I feel that it's used better in that. The first hour or so actually was fine, it was the last 20 minutes that it just got plain bad. It was moving so fast in some parts that I couldn't even tell what was going on. I couldn't tell who was infected and who wasn't, even when they're right in front of the camera because the camera's moving so freaking fast. That also brings me to my next point: the ending is really rushed. I mean most of the movie is pretty slow moving, but that was fine by me because I could at least tell what was going on. Once they figured how the infection started, I couldn't even tell what was going on. They could've slowed it down a bit, and made the movie a little longer.

I still enjoyed it, but I'm actually sort of glad that I didn't pay the money to see this in theaters. Any zombie or horror fan should check this out sometime, because it's still good. I'm not sure if I'll check [REC] out anytime soon though, because this is supposed to be a shot-for-shot remake of it. I'll definitely try to check it out sometime in the future, maybe once it finally gets released on DVD.

3

TheDOMINATOR

03-21-09, 09:19 PM

The Ox-Bow Incident - 4+
(FIRST VIEWING)

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/4828/oxbowincidentdvdcover.jpg

This is now my third or fourth Western that I've ever seen, and my fifth Henry Fonda movie. It was very, very good. After perhaps starting off a bit on the slow side (at least during this first viewing; that opinion may change), the film peaked my interest once the action took place. The entire movie--which is less than an hour and twenty minutes long--consisted of a single event with the exception of the introductions at the film's beginning, and I was completely captivated throughout it (the single event). And what an ending; I think a quote that Henry Fonda's character delivers (a rather lengthy one) during it is now one of my new all-time favorite quotes (the letter he reads aloud). A powerful message was delivered here, in this movie, and perfectly. Now I can't wait for Henry Fonda film #6. :cool: Dunno what that will be yet.

The Heartbreak Kid - 2

http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/8818/heartbreakkidposter0.jpg

Mediocrity at its most mediocre. A couple of suprisingly funny scenes, but beyond that, the story or characters invoked little-to-no interest in me.

Big - 3.5

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/5624/bigc.jpg

Funny, charming, heartwarming, and hot-as-hell female lead sums up this movie pretty well. I liked it a lot; I know I've seen it before, but I didn't remember a darn thing. I was both happy and sad concerning the ending, but when the day is done, the right choice was made by the character.

MovieMan8877445

03-22-09, 02:00 AM

http://www.yowazzup.com/blog/images/max-payne-movie.jpg

Max Payne
John Moore, 2008

I guess you can put me in the minority for this one, but I actually really liked it. Yeah it's not some perfect film, but it's a very enjoyable action movie. It doesn't really deserve all the crap that it seems to get, IMO. I think people were just expecting something different when they saw it; I think if you're just expecting a great action movie, then you may end up liking it like I did. The last 30 minutes or so was just really awesome, like I mean really awesome. Some of the best action that I've ever seen. The film did have some bad dialouge and acting, and at some points the movie was pretty predictable, but it's still enjoyable. As far as acting goes though, I only really cared about Mark Wahlberg, who I thought did a pretty good job in this. It's no secret that Wahlberg is one of my favorite actors, and I feel that he seems to get a bunch of undeserved crap.

Judging from this and The Happening, which I like both, I'm starting to think that people don't nesicarily hate the movie, but they just hate Wahlberg, and then say the movie is crap. I may be totally wrong about that, but it's just something I noticed between the two movies. I sort of regret not seeing this in theaters, because it would've been a great movie to see in theaters. Anyone looking for a good action movie to watch on a rainy day or something, I think you should give this one a try. You might end up liking it and be in the miniorty with me.

3

re93animator

03-22-09, 04:46 AM

Opera (1987)

http://i41.tinypic.com/e7gy89.jpg

Opera is often put down by its poor script. Luckily it has astounding camera work and stupendous cinematography to aid it. Though, even with all the positives, there are too many negatives to be able to rightfully label it as a good film. The acting was b-grade though not terrible, the script was a very poor apparent attempt to homage The Phantom of the Opera, and a very weak main character will have the viewer begging for the killer to succeed with his evil doings.
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Nevertheless, there are some genuinely chilling moments in the film. Opera is a murder-mystery (and quite a gruesome one at that) so the camera never focuses on the killers face until the final minutes of the film. The slow, almost immobile actions of the killer send shivers racing down the spine. Such seemingly dispensable actions will almost unwittingly haunt the viewer throughout the film (such as the killer merely scraping his knife on a television monitor displaying what he thinks to be his next victim).

The camera work combined with excellent cinematography is remarkable, brilliant really. Non-crucial moments in the film are distinctly memorable because of it (a shining example would be the bullet through the door hole or shots from the lead characters point of view while tied up by the killer, unable of movement).
http://i39.tinypic.com/9h5ora.png
The death scenes are gloriously gruesome (the killer sticks a knife through a man’s chin with it visibly coming out through the other end of the mouth). Though, while the death scenes do make the film much more enjoyable, they do not make up for the poor characterizations or script. The plot was nonsensical, even silly at times. At times the script tried conjuring up suspense and miserably failed at it. The characters, mixed with a disjointed plot, easily leave the viewer in disbelief at times; moments that may get the viewer scratching their head thinking of how stupid the main character actually is.

When the star of an opera production is run over by a car, a young singer gets the chance to headline what may be a transcendent opportunity. With her big opportunity she also becomes a psychopath’s ambition for murder. The film starts out very promisingly, but shortly after a few unnecessary plot points the film quickly loses its spark. The revealing of the killer is good, but is tarnished with an avoidable little twist at the end.
http://i41.tinypic.com/33jqt6d.png
Overall, Opera is far from a bad film, though it is nowhere near great, it is enjoyable. It should mainly please most fans of the genre, though I will hesitate to call it a genre “must-see.” Argento has done some mighty fine work in the past that can make Opera look almost expendable. As a fan of of Argento's work, I would still give Opera a minimal recommendation. 3

Harry Lime

03-22-09, 05:01 AM

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The Lives of Others (4/5)

Iroquois

03-22-09, 10:07 AM

Aside from re-watching Lost Highway again, I also got around to checking out...

http://www.cinemaretro.com/uploads/joseywales.jpeg

The Outlaw Josey Wales (Eastwood, 1976) - 4+

I'll be damned. I was a little worried that I may have been let down, given how much praise I've heard it get, but it deserves all of it. Eastwood crafts a highly competent film that delivers on virtually every front - excellent character development, some brilliantly executed confrontations, a great look to it (not even the recorded DVD-R's occasional drop in picture quality could diminish the film's visuals). All in all, great.

meatwadsprite

03-22-09, 11:33 AM

Re-watched some favorites and still love em.

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Sweeney Todd

The only musical I have ever enjoyed (excluding South Park) , it's so full of energy - a huge score backs all the songs which are all amazingly worded. Tim Burton's best work and the best he'll ever do - such a talented cast and a very unique visual style.

"It's man devouring man my dear and who are we to do deny it in here"

5

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Hot Fuzz

Hot Fuzz tells a hilarious and original story - then destroys (in a good way) everything it set up in an epic 30 minute action extravaganza , fully synced up with the over-the-top score.

5

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WALL-E

Brilliant stuff , bare minimal dialogue and still widely entertaining. It's truely original film making from the best animation studio.

5

Justin

03-22-09, 12:14 PM

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The Lives of Others (4/5)

I'm glad you enjoyed it - great movie.

MovieMan8877445

03-22-09, 07:40 PM

http://www.offoffoff.com/film/2003/images/21grams.jpg

21 Grams
Alejandro González Iñárritu, 2003

Okay, well personally, I thought this was a great movie. I'm not sure if I'll ever watch it again, if I do, it's going to be a couple of years before I try and give it another watch. This was one of the most surreal movies I've ever seen. I could actually see this happening in real life, and I'm sure it probably has happened before. I love that they did the interconnected characters storyline, because most movies that does that seems to turn out really great. The story was just so depressing, which is why I'm not sure I'll ever watch it again. While it's a great movie, it was actually really hard for me to get through the whole thing. The last 15 or 20 minutes really had me wanting to turn it off. The ending did seem to have sort of a twist to it, if you could call it that. The plot was very jumpy, but that doesn't mind me, because I watch a lot of movies that are like that.

The acting, though, is incredible. I don't think there was a single weak perforance from anyone in the cast. Sean Penn and Benicio Del Toro were about equal as far as performances goes, and they're the two best of the movie. Naomi Watts did a great job as well, as did Danny Houston, who was only in the movie for like 5 or 10 minutes total. I'm not sure if I'd actually recommend this to anyone, because it being so surreal and depressing. If you want to be depressed after watching the movie, then go ahead and try this one out. At least I only paid 5 dollars for it. I want to give it a perfect score so much, but I just can't because I'm not sure if I'll ever be able to watch it again.

3.5+

Harry Lime

03-22-09, 07:45 PM

When I first saw this film (21 Grams) I went in with high expectations seeing as I loved Amores Perros, unfortunately I left the theater disappointed.

mark f

03-22-09, 11:07 PM

I believe that Amores perros is also much better.

"Okay, well personally, I thought this was a great movie. I'm not sure if I'll ever watch it again, if I do, it's going to be a couple of years... " That doesn't tell you something right there?

I think you need to watch Fast Times at Ridgemont High like, umm, now!

Justin

03-22-09, 11:09 PM

Have you seen Babel, MovieMan?

Lennon

03-22-09, 11:58 PM

You see, movies always serve a purpose, whether it's try to make us laugh, cry, make us scared, or get our adrenaline up. In honor of this, I've created a 'Just awesome, kay?' These are the dumb little action movies that are just so friggin' awesome but if given the full review method, they'd all really be low. But they serve their purpose, and that's all I can ask.

http://blogs.bellinghamherald.com/gobham/media/blogs/b/pointbreak.jpg
Point Break (Kathryn Bigelow, 1991)

So this is probably the leader of my 'Just Awesome, Kay?' genre. It's actually a well made film, it's just the cast that pretty much kills this one.

http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n157/joshm9393/walkingtall.jpg
Walking Tall (Kevin Bray, 2004)

So, this movie isn't as well made, and probably the weakest overall. Its' acting is terrible. Its' story, so unbelivable. But everyone is cast well. The Rock (or Dwayne Johnson) is a brute who looks like he has strong morals. Neal McDonough is a guy you legitamitly hate. Johnny Knoxville is likeble, I always have liked him in a stupid way. It's 84 minutes, but it kicks so much ass.

MovieMan8877445

03-23-09, 12:22 AM

http://www.sarahfobes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/pineapplesmall.jpg

Pineapple Express
David Gordon Green, 2008

I've seen this like 7 or 8 times now, and I'm not really sure if there's anything else I could add that I haven't already said. It's my favorite non-sexual comedy that I've ever seen. I noticed that I really love stoner comedies, and plan to see some more. To see a full review, you can check out my movie review thread. Also, if you may have noticed I bumped my score up an extra .5 of a point. I think that next time I watch it, I may even bump up my score even more. This is just one of those rare movies that just gets better and better with each viewing.

4

I believe that Amores perros is also much better.

"Okay, well personally, I thought this was a great movie. I'm not sure if I'll ever watch it again, if I do, it's going to be a couple of years... " That doesn't tell you something right there?

I think you need to watch Fast Times at Ridgemont High like, umm, now!

I want to see it, because I love comedies. Also, it stars Sean Penn, so that's a plus.

Have you seen Babel, MovieMan?

Nope.

Justin

03-23-09, 12:26 AM