jennybridge Reviews

Unbreakable (2000)

If you "get it" you'll love it

[9/10 · 8 December 2001]

It would seem that on seeing this film people either "get it" and love it or "don't get it" and hate it.

I just got it out on video, having had it on my must see list on the strength of my enjoyment of The 6th Sense, and yes, I "get it" and I loved it. Some commentators have accused M. Night Shyamalan of being on one track, or trying to make another 6th Sense. The two films do share some similar themes of self discovery and supernatural possibilities (and Bruce Willis), but Shyamalan is obviously interested in these themes, so why shouldn't he make films that explore them? He does a brilliant job of it.

I guess it's not everyone's cup of tea - it isn't an action packed ride, and I suppose that some people would hear of it's association with comic books and have expectations that wouldn't be met. But to anyone who likes a movie that makes you wonder, "what if?", I say, check it out. As Samuel L. Jackson's character, Elijah Price says, "These are mediocre times...it's hard for people to see the extraordinary..."

Fail Safe (2000 TV Movie)

A warning as timely today as it was in 1964.

[10 April 2000]

Set during the Cold War in the '60's and filmed in B/W for atmosphere, this telemovie is a compelling "what if?" scenario. What if a nuclear-capable nation gives an order to strike the enemy - by accident? What if there is no way to recall that order? What will it take for the enemy to believe that it is a genuine error?

This remake of a 1964 film explores issues which are as timely today as they were during the Cold War...and will continue to be until worldwide disarmament is achieved.

The telemovie is also presented interestingly, like a play, with "acts" titled on the screen. Also it was apparently shot with just one take for each scene.

The Beautician and the Beast (1997)

Sit back and enjoy - it's a fairytale!

[10 April 2000]

Yes, it *is* just "The King and I" meets "The Sound of Music" meets "The Nanny", but what's wrong with that? Those formulas (formulae?) were all successful and so it this one if you sit back and enjoy it for what it is - just a fluffy romantic comedy.

(To some of the other reviewers:) Don't take it so seriously! It's just a fairytale! Fran and Timothy play their parts well and look like they're having a ball.

Extreme Measures (1996)

Thought-provoking stuff

[5 March 2000]

I just watched this movie on TV and my mind is reeling with the ethical dilemma it raises. I thought I'd watch it while I did the ironing but I only got a couple of items done because I was glued to the movie!

I must admit also I wondered what sort of a job Hugh Grant would do in a role much more serious than we usually see, but...surprise! He is thoroughly convincing as a young surgeon troubled by some things that don't add up in the Emergency Room, troubled enough to investigate further, risking his career and ultimately his life to find out what is going on.

Definitely worth a look!