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Reviews
Wedding Crashers (2005)
Laced with homophobia
There is so much wrong with this movie, I could be here a week typing this. But one of the most glaring missteps (for lack of a stronger word) is the homophobic element surrounding the character of Todd. Portrayed as "crazy," "weird" and "scary" the film takes the gay stereotype of over 30 years ago and resurrects it. It also makes sure to add, to comedic effect, the "horror" of a gay man trying to seduce a straight man. Then, add in a dash of the "looney grandmother" who spouts homophobic slurs for laughs. What this film does to fuel ignorance and intolerance towards gays and lesbians is no laughing matter.
Panic Room (2002)
"Why didn't THEY think of that?"
*SPOILER* The last straw for me in being willing to ignore some plot holes was when Dwight Yoakam said (as Jodie Foster's character was smashing all the surveillance cameras) "Why didn't we think of that?" Why, indeed, did the "bad guys" not think to smash those cameras (even when they stared right at them).
It is holes in the plot, like that, that make you want to just say out loud "oh come on!" In fact, people did say that, among other things (like "this movie is stupid") when I saw it.
Fancy camera work, tight direction and good actors does not a thriller make when the plausibility is ever so slight!
The Broken Hearts Club: A Romantic Comedy (2000)
A movie that finally gets it right!
Finally, a movie about gay men that shows us as the ordinary guys most of us really are. For once I wasn't cringing at any stereotypical moments or characters that seem to be in every previous gay-themed movie. I found myself sitting in my seat crying when the movie was over, trying to stifle the audible sobs that wanted to come out.
I was in tears because this movie reminded me of the wonderful friends I've had, and have, in my life. Friends from the past, friends in the present. Some friends I've lost touch with because of death, or just the passing of time, and the changing paths of our lives. This movie reminded me of these friends with love. And that is a reminder we can all use, whether we're gay or straight.
Gladiator (2000)
A Colossal Disappointment!
The "coming attractions" were more exciting and fun than watching "Gladiator" after them. I was all prepared for a movie of action, and romance and adventure. The kind of film that gets you caught up in the story, and has you rooting, cheering and clapping at the climax of the movie. This wasn't it. The story never drew me in, or gave me a reason to care what happened. I think Russell Crowe is a talented actor, but not in this... His acting consisted of variations on looking stern or solemn, with maybe three smiles thrown in to show his range. As for this moviegoer, I'd rather watch an old Steve Reeves movie.
Dogma (1999)
An example of what film can do.
Having seen this film in a special showing, I can't wait to have others to talk about it with. This is an example of what film can do... stimulate conversations, thoughts, debate, disagreements. With there already being a fervor over the movie, I'm sure that once it opens there will be both extremes of personal opinion . . those loving it and those hating it, with few caught in the middle. The reviews, too, will more than likely be at opposite ends of the scale. All I will say is, don't let the perceptions of others determine your decision to see the film. If you are at all interested in it (either "negatively" or "positively" it) go and see it for yourself. Whatever your reaction, ask yourself when the last time was a movie caused this kind of stimulation.
Arlington Road (1999)
Finally,,,, an adult, tense, well made thriller!
In this summer of bad blockbusters, "Arlington Road" is a breath of fresh air. A really good movie . . . great acting, directing and a superb script. This movie (unlike the over-hyped "The Blair Witch Project") builds a slow suspense that ultimately has you on the edge of your seat. Highly recommend!
And, once again, Jeff Bridges shows why he is considered by some as one of the best American actors around today.
Illtown (1996)
do NOT waste your time....
... with this pretentious, "confusing as hell" movie. Some bad movies are worth watching just to see how bad there are... this is NOT one of those movies....
Psycho (1998)
It seemed like a good idea at the time....
I think there is nothing wrong with the idea of remaking classic films, using the original script. After all, Broadway is always revisiting classic plays and muscials, so why not revivals of certain films. However, the most successful revivals are those that bring something new or different to the work. Remaking it with a "concept". That's the problem with this reworking of "Psycho". Gus Van Sant brings absolutely nothing new to the film. He is so faithful that there are no surprises... no new "touches" that make you appreciate the script even more.
And, unfortunately, none of the actors seem that interested (aside from Anne Heche, I think) in bringing anything new to these established characters. Vince Vaughn, especially... He tries so hard to "copy" Tony Perkins that I couldn't help but sit there comparing the two (of which there is no contest). It would be like watching a revival of "A Streetcar Named Desire" with the actor playing Stanley trying to mimic Brando, instead of putting his own stamp on the role.
I hope the idea of remaking classics doesn't stop here. Just use this "Psycho" as a lesson of what not to do.
On Borrowed Time (1939)
Wonderful performances...
.... from Lionel Barrymore, Beluah Bondi and Bobs Watson as Pud. Watson, in particular, gives quite a moving peformance. How did they get that boy to cry so realistically???
Passion in the Desert (1997)
Worth viewing...
a mesmerizing film that certainly keeps your attention... Ben Daniels is fascinating (and courageous) to watch.
My Mother the Car (1965)
But I still remember the theme song...
I was 12, and know I liked the show, but don't really remember much of the detail... however, it's one of the few television theme songs that I still remember the lyrics too (go figure)...
"Everybody knows, in the the second life we all come back sooner or later.."
Gods and Monsters (1998)
The Performance to Beat for this year's Best Actor
Ian McKellen gives THE performance, so far, of the year in a small, intimate, gem of a movie. Kudos also to Brendan Fraser and Lynn Redgrave (possible Supporting Actress nominee).
Karakter (1997)
Like curling up with a good book
This is a rich, full movie; that tells an intriguing story and is populated with memorable characters.
Beloved (1998)
Beautifully acted, wonderfully directed and TOOOOO LONG!
Much too long, and boring in stretches (with some scenes that are stand outs), but I'm sure it'll get many Oscar nods. And Oprah, Danny Glover and, especially Kimberly Elise, are deserving of nominations. And as far as what we've seen so far this year, I think Miss Winfrey just might make Oscar history with her winning Best Actress.
Happiness (1998)
This is a film that SHOULD be remembered at Oscar time. . .
. . . but it probably won't. I have to say that, putting "Saving Private Ryan" in a category all its own, this film is the best I've seen, so far, this year. Should definitely be one of the five nominated films come Oscar time. Along with nods for Director, Screenplay and, in spite of the fact that there were many incredible performances in this film, a nomination for Dylan Baker. WHAT a performance. PLEASE Hollywood, take notice come nominating time.....
The Spanish Prisoner (1997)
Adult "cotton candy"
Certainly entertaining and intriguing. Makes you think you're watching an adult minded movie (which it is), yet not to be taken too seriously. Mamet's pretentious writing style is laughable at times, yet I wonder if he was poking fun at his own usage of words (does anyone in real life talk like Mamet's characters do?). And Rebecca Pidgeon . . . a high school performance. If she is, indeed, Mamet's wife . . . he should be ashamed for making us watch her attempt at acting.
One True Thing (1998)
Kudos, once again, for Meryl
A good movie, but not a great one, unfortunately. Plays a bit more like a "movie of the week" than a classic movie "weeper" (e.g., "Terms of Endearment"). Yet, all the performances are good, and . . . as always, Meryl proves (as if she has to) that she is perhaps the greatest film actress of our generation.
The trouble with the film is that it tries to be about too much. About a woman dealing with her impending death; about a mother/daughter relationship; about a father/daughter relationship; about a marriage affected by a devastating disease. And, what, pray tell, happens to the character of the brother? For someone who so obviously feels great love towards his mother, where is it when the end draws near? That was never explained satisfactorily for me.
But, at least we've got one actress in the running for this year's Best Actress category.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
A Classic
Nothing more to say . . . EXCEPT that this movie not winning the Oscar for Best Picture that year was one of the biggest mistakes the Academy has made. It will endure forever.
Nashville (1975)
The Best Movie of that year....
... by far! Should have won the Oscar that year. Truly a classic American film and story. Anyone serious about films, should see this one.
Auntie Mame (1958)
If I had to choose one movie to see over and over again....
...it would be this one. Great script, great charm, great camp AND a truly great, delightful performance by Rosalind Russell. A classic performance if you ask me. And a classic comedy. Filled with delicious one-liners that I, for one, use quite often! Oh, that we all had an Auntie Mame like this in our lives!!
Dance with Me (1998)
When oh When.....
...is Hollywood gonna get wise and make the movie version of "Dreamgirls" with Vanessa L. Williams as Deena Jones??? It seems such a natural. Especially after viewing "Dance With Me" (for the 2nd time). The woman has class and style on the screen, and she can even sing and dance AND act. It's a shame that Hollywood doesn't produce films anymore for a triple talent like her. There are those of us out there who would line up to see a good movie musical.