rocky_wood Reviews

The Tree of Life (2011)

Two Hours of My Life I Will Never Get Back

[5/10 · 10 July 2011]

So, I went to this movie because of stellar blurbs and reviews, and because of the cast. Pitt does act and creditably but apart from that its almost all cardboard responses and facial expressions lovingly overdone by the camera. As to the storyline - was their one? Actually, there was but it is so predictable and slammed home within an inch of the viewer's ability to stand the obvious that only one thing - the only remaining question of the movie, and quite and important one - remained unresolved. Otherwise, you are certain to have the same emotional deeds worked, reworked, hashed and rehashed until you really wonder if you've fallen asleep and (hopefully) dreamed it all. The sole redeeming feature is the cinematography - and one suspects that is the real reason the movie was made, just to show that really good cinematography is possible (as if we were too silly to know that before seeing the film). One sequence drones on for what seemed like ten minutes repeating visuals from a David Attenborough documentary as if they were telling mind-blowing. My advice - never see this movie unless you are the sort of film snob who claims genius is being bored; or unless you wish to permanently cure a bad dose of insomnia.

The Locals (2003)

Surprisingly good

[7/10 · 7 September 2006]

If Hollywood had made this movie (and smoothed out some hitches that presumably came with a low budget) the critics may well have been raving about it.

In many ways it could have been another 'The Others'.

Most of the acting is quite acceptable for a low budget horror movie; the photography is very well done and the script itself is ambitious and doesn't miss by much, which is saying something. Some of the foreshadowing is top notch.

Either way well worth watching and miles ahead of so much Hollywood horror pap!

As ghost stories go this was relatively original and will be appreciated by those looking for something different.

Chariots of the Gods (1970)

Bringing an important theory to the masses

[8 May 2003]

This lively production loosely based on von Daniken's first work, 'Chariots of the Gods?' brought his theories of alien visitations in the past to the attention of the movie going audience. At that time it was a break-through in thinking. Since then von Daniken has presented dozens of more books of proofs, many of them more scientific and hard-nosed than this. As a result, there have been bookshelves full of other books on this subject, including those written by scientists, professors and other notable experts. Meanwhile, a campaign of debunking this whole theory is maintained by a clique of limited thinkers, believing in their arrogance, that this is the only world in the entire universe on which intelligent life arose - gimme a break! Watch it again for the joy of discovery. A tremendous soundtrack is a bonus

Strawberry Spring (2001)

Good Rendition

[7/10 · 1 October 2002]

A tremendous rendition by (I presume) a young filmmaker. Good writing and quality, although the soundtrack music is a little loud at times.

Another successful King dollar baby. King fans should seek it out as interesting representation of this story, while those interested in short films will find a good, solid and well presented short story.

Rose Red (2002)

Great Haunted House Story

[7/10 · 16 February 2002]

Tremendous screenplay and story but damaged by some poor casting (especially Nancy Travis as 'Joyce Reardon'). In Travis' case the character should be obsessed, not obviously acting as obsessed. As a leading character this failure took away a lot of the enjoyment of the mini-series. Great sets, photography and excellent special effects. Well worth watching, especially if you enjoy a very good Haunted House story and the cameo by King was most enjoyable.

Miracle on the Mountain: The Kincaid Family Story (2000 TV Movie)

Don't Bother

[3/10 · 28 November 2001]

Every now and then you watch a movie that exceeds expectations - this is NOT it!

In the case of these filler telemovies expectations are rightly low and unfortunately this film does not even reach 'low'.

Poor scriptwriting, largely wooden acting, little if any suspense, totally predictable ... what more must I say.

If this film appears in your movie guide run, don't walk, to your remote control and ensure you avoid that channel for the obligatory 0- minutes. You won't regret it.

Gentlemen's Relish (2001 TV Movie)

Amusing Little Movie

[6/10 · 12 November 2001]

An amusing semi-comedy. As always Connolly makes a great fist of this role which is part serious and part light comedy. Support actors do a good job. While the script is predictable it is fun and moves at a pace which holds your interest. The subject matter is pornography in the early days of photography which makes for a slightly different movie.

Dont go out of your way but if you see this movie in a TV schedule take the opportunity for an hour and half of light entertainment

Naked City: A Killer Christmas (1998 TV Movie)

Oh Dear!

[4/10 · 8 November 2001]

Well, what a waste of 90 minutes. Some of the worst acting you would ever want to see (particularly the waitress who was Peralta's girlfriend - this would be an example of overacting at its absolute worst) allied to inept, wooden screenwriting. Its sole redeeming feature is a nice twist in the story but the ending is lame. If you have anything better to do dont bother watching this movie.

Blessed Stranger: After Flight 111 (2000 TV Movie)

Better than it should be

[6/10 · 4 November 2001]

This is one of those movies that turns out to be more satisfying than you expect. Get past the first 1/2 hour and there actually turns out to be a story. Nelligan is very good and while there are no surprises the ending is compelling and satisfactory. Lots of nice little parts by bit actors and its good to hear that Nova Scotian accent so prominent in a movie. Give it a go - you wont be disappointed

The Green Mile (1999)

In a word - brilliant

[10/10 · 19 March 2000]

Superb rendition of Stephen King's work. Yet another example of how talented King is as a storyteller. As in Shawshank Redemption Darabont leaves nothing to chance. It is a pleasure to see a movie which enhances a book, yet keeps religiously to the storyline. Very competent acting throughout particularly Michael Clarke Duncan, who is superb. If you don't have tears in your eyes at some stage of this movie you should ask why not? Very rarely does a film deserve a 10 - this is it.