Jonno-B Reviews

Sacred Flesh (2000)

A very interesting film.

[9/10 · 6 March 2005]

This film is something of an enigma. While it is easy to dismiss it as merely a thinly veiled porn film, when you actually look at the themes and meanings behind the film, it becomes more interesting. While the sex scenes are possibly overstated slightly, and could have been fewer or shorter, they are padded with some pretty heave dialogue between the mother superior and Mary Magdalene debating the logic behind unchecked celibacy. The film's basic message is that sexual repression will only lead to an eventual release, which could be more violent and harmful than ever. The quality of the acting varies, the nuns are a possibly a bit too well groomed, but the art direction is sumptuous. The film is a joy to watch, as the sets, costumes and effects are beautiful. I recommend you watch this film. It is amazing. My only complaint is that the fabulous Eileen Daly wasn't given more of a role.

Ghostwatch (1992 TV Movie)

Extraordinary

[10/10 · 20 June 2004]

WARNING : POSSIBLE SPOILER This is an amazing piece of television. I vaguely remembered hearing about Ghostwatch back in 1992 when everyone in my class were talking about it the next day at school. I didn't watch it when it was on (my mum wouldn't let me), however I caught it on DVD for the first time today (It has never been repeated since its initial broadcast on October 31 1992). Confined to the BBC archives for over 10 years in the "blacklisted" section, the British Film Institute has finally taken the brave decision to release the programme on DVD and VHS. This programme can be seen as a tongue-in-cheek critique of the reality TV era before it began! When viewed against the backdrop of television today with Survivor, Big Brother, Pop Idol etc, Ghostwatch outlines the reliance of the general public on the reality TV medium. Although its production values look dated for today (even though they were state of the art for the time), Ghostwatch has a distinct relevance for modern culture and the medium of television.I strongly urge you to watch this. The best way is probably to get it on DVD or VHS as the general consensus is that it won't be repeated on TV anytime soon. And don't worry! Even though some people refuse to believe it and make accusations of a BBC cover-up, Sarah Greene is not still in the cupboard, and is (as of June 20 2004) alive and well!!!

Dateline: Disneyland (1955 TV Special)

Fantastic

[10/10 · 23 January 2004]

Anyone who's visited any of the Disneyland parks around the world, will know Walt's famous dedication; "To all who come to this happy place, welcome...", and in this programme, you can see and hear the original reading of this dedication speech by Walt Disney.

This shows how it all began back in 1955 when one man's dream became reality. This is a fantastic programme showing the opening day of Disneyland, and the beginning of the world's favourite theme park. I've visited the Disneyland Resort in Paris several times, and this programme contains all of the magic which can be felt in the park. Watch this, it's simply fantastic.

Masters of the Universe (1987)

Fantastic

[10/10 · 7 September 2003]

This has to be one of my favourite films of all time. I admit that the acting is a bit ropey in places, and the plot is slightly absurd, but I think that the reasons it means so much to me are a bit more personal.

As a young boy of 6 years old when the film was released, this was the first action type film that I saw, and as "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe" was my favourite cartoon series at the time, it held a special appeal for me. I still can't describe the feeling of seeing my favourite characters come to life on screen!! :-)

Thank goodness this film is now on DVD in the UK. It has been off general release for far to long, and now fans of the original series, and the new series (which is very faithful to the original) can see this treasure!!

Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977)

OK So it's not exactly "Gone With The Wind"

[6/10 · 18 May 2001]

This is a curious film. Like many adoring fans of "The Exorcist", I was eager to watch this film, to see a follow up to my all time favourite. I went and bought it, sat and watched it, then stormed off saying it was the worst film ever. Then I found myself thinking about it afterwards. I also found myself strangely drawn to watch it again.

I now keep watching it, and am considering buying the recently remastered soundtrack. This is so bizarre, as it is a bad film. The acting ranges from the overdone (Burton) to the ridiculous (Winn). However, there are some very good performances from Fletcher and Blair, and though some of their lines are weird, I think they do the best they could with the material they were given.

I would seriously like to urge everyone to watch this film. The only thing I ask is that you don't compare it to the original. I think that is why a lot of people don't like it. It's not fair to compare them as they are very different. Anyway, watch it! It's a simple enough watch.

Metropolis (1927)

The mother of all sci-fi films

[9/10 · 9 August 2000]

An interesting and fascinating look at German silent cinema, and in particular, how sci-fi got started. This 1926 film is set in the year 2000, and takes the form of the fictional city of "Metropolis". Though often considered a pro-fascist film (a claim which Fritz Lang always vehemently denied), there is little to suggest that there is any intended Fascist agenda. The film once again draws on female contrast. For example, the contrast between the "pure woman" (Maria), and the "impure woman" (the robot Maria), further exemplifying the dichotomy between good and evil. Metropolis paints a negative image of mechanisation, with the machines running the city, yet mankind is worse off. The social critique is also there, with a 3 tier social structure, reflected in the habitats of the classes. The geometric mise-en-scène is seen as a representation of the rigidly ordered and structured society also. Scripted by Thea Von Harbou (Lang's wife), this film can truly be regarded as a landmark, and the first sci-film. Quoted as inspiration by many modern directors, and similarities can be seen in many areas (ie C3P0 was modelled on the Metropolis robot). My advice is to see this movie - its simply fantastic.

Bedlam (1946)

Fantastic

[30 July 2000]

This film is yet another outstanding example of Karloff during his time at RKO. I find this film to be eerie and genuinely disturbing, when one sees inside the mental institution. Although Karloff gives a fine performance, my own particular favourite here has to be Anna Lee as Nell, who appeared later as the nosy neighbour in "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?" It is such a tragedy that so many similar films of the period have been lost due to decay of the archives. Luckily, this one has survived, and my advice is to see it if you get the chance.

The 1940's: Music, Memories & Milestones (1988 Video)

Worth a look

[9/10 · 20 May 2000]

An interesting mixture of archive news footage along with music from the period. This is of particular value if you're interested in the 2nd World War, as it contains British MOD advice films, along with reports of major events. Take a look at the 1930s one as well if you can, but I think the videos are fairly hard to come by now.

The Exorcist (1973)

Masterpiece

[8/10 · 26 November 1999]

This film is indeed a landmark in both special effects and themes carried within the film. While the film is not especially scary, particularly to nineties audiences and non-believers, the film still has a very powerful impact on those who see it. The only problem is, that now it is back on video in the UK as part of a wave of lifting bans on films (I believe The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is also on its way to video), some of the mystery and appeal has now vanished. After watching this film for the first time ever this afternoon, I was slightly disappointed. Because of the build up the film was given, I received slightly less than I was expecting. But nevertheless, the only crime is that we were deprived of this masterpiece in the UK for 15 years, as it has outstanding artistic and cinematic merit, regardless of whether it truly is or isn't the scariest movie ever made.

Hello Again (1987)

Not as bad as people think!

[17 October 1999]

I really feel that it is about time someone defended this movie! Okay, so the script and the plot isn't up to much, and maybe some of the acting is a little bit on the thin side, but it's one of those movies that you can sit and watch without having to analyze every tiny detail. I don't think Shelley Long is bad in the lead role, and her constant clumsiness did manage to raise the odd laugh, and I think her eccentric sister is brilliant. Therefore, I think that although this is not going to go down in history alongside Citizen Kane, it deserves some recognition as a movie which is ideal for a lazy Sunday.

Sometime, Never (1995–1996)

A Great series

[30 August 1999]

This was a good series, which clearly illustrated the enormous talent of both Sara Crowe and Ann Bryson (Known also to UK viewers as The Philadelphia Girls on the adverts). What a shame it was cancelled so quickly. Bring it back!

A Heart in Winter (1992)

Absolument Fantastique!

[9/10 · 22 July 1999]

Un Coeur en hiver is yet another excellent film from a nation with a fantastic hold on film making. The cast give excellent performances, in particular Daniel Auteuil (Lucie Aubrac, Jean De Florette), and Emmanuelle Béart (Manon des Sources, Mission Impossible). The film is set marvelously to the enchanting music of Ravel, a particular favourite of the director, and this adds to the romantic feel of the film. This film could easily be recommended to anyone with an interest in French film, but also to anyone who has an interest in feel good romances. This is also a rare example of a French film which has a satisfactory ending.

Hotel du Nord (1938)

Brilliant

[10/10 · 22 July 1999]

This is an excellent film, and is the sort of treasure that one can only catch through sporadic cinema showings, as it is unavailable on video/DVD. The way that the film begins with the two lovers arriving, and ends with them leaving (although quite a lot happens in between, and they don't stay in one place during this time), gives you a sense of closure, and a feeling that all is right with the world. If you get a chance to see this film, then do. I can't wait to see it again, and wish that it could be put on general release.

Carry on Camping (1969)

Makes you proud to be British!

[12 June 1999]

This film definitely has to be a strong contender for the title of best "Carry On" film ever. The whole film says "Carry On" from the characters and location to the plays on words (ie the finishing school for girls entitled "Chayste Place") and the inevitable double entendres. The fact that the film was shot on the back lot of Pinewood Studios, and not in a campsite in Devon, is really not important, as the atmosphere is captured marvellously. This is also another example of how it would be nearly impossible in real life to have such a collection of people in one place at one time. Including an old lecher, a hen-pecked husband, a camp camper and a party of girls from a finishing school. I would recommend this film to anyone who has an interest in comedy, British Cinema, or if you just feel like a good laugh.

A Chance of Snow (1998 TV Movie)

A Heartwarming Christmas Tale

[7/10 · 30 May 1999]

It's 1pm on a Sunday and I'm stuck for something to do. What should come onto the TV but A Chance of Snow :- "A Heartwarming Family Christmas Tale" said the announcer. Just what I wanted in May(!). I decided to watch it, and I'm glad that I did. Although this movie contains virtually every cliché associated with family and Christmas movies, including the classic "parents on the brink of divorce reunited after several meaningful talks with strangers" theme, I found it to be enjoyable and just the sort of thing that is a joy to watch around Christmas. It also stars the excellent JoBeth Williams from the cult POLTERGEIST movies. I would recommend this movie to anyone in the mood for some sentimental, easy-going holiday nonsense. 7/10