JB-145 Reviews

Basquiat (1996)

This movie is impressionist art on film. Julian Schnabel proves to be as talented behind the lens as he is "on canvas."

[9/10 · 6 June 2000]

If you love art, this movie is definitely for you. If character development and good writing are important elements in your movie selections, definitely add this one to your list of "must sees." However, if you typically only prefer major "blockbuster hits," you may want to forego it.

Intricately performed and written, this film is "art-house" & "independent" at it's very finest. David Bowie is perfection as Jean Michel Basquiat's friend and mentor, Andy Warhol. Michael Wincott sheds his usual grovel-voiced tough guy persona to play Basquiat's first flamboyantly feminine art dealer. Jeffrey Wright's brilliant performance as the complex Basquiat received a nomination for "Best Debut Performance," and Benecio Del Toro won "Best Supporting Male Performance" at the 1997 Independent Spirit Awards. Even the minor characters (Gary Oldman, Christopher Walken, Dennis Hopper, Parker Posey, Willem Dafoe) add colorful performances to Julian Schnabel's first "canvas on film." --J.B.

The Addiction (1995)

This film is so realistic and disturbing, it almost feels like a documentary on vampirism in the '90's...

[10/10 · 6 June 2000]

Abel Ferrara compares humans to vampires & we are (unpleasantly) surprised to find that the two are not very different. This is the most humanistic and grim depiction of vampirism ever to grace the screen. Lili Taylor's Independent Spirit Award (for best female lead) was much deserved. --J.B.

Chungking Express (1994)

If you are a Tarantino fanatic, this movie is "required viewing!"

[8/10 · 6 June 2000]

Two pairs of star-crossed Hong Kong cops present a differing tale of heartache and love. The similarities between each man's story involves an eccentric woman, chef salad, love forsaken, love found and fast-paced urban society. Oh, and of course, Chungking Express fast food (yum)!

Quentin Tarantino considers the director of this movie, Kar-Wai Wong to be his "directorial muse." If you enjoy the cinematography, storytelling & editing of Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction, you will definitely enjoy the style of this movie.

Be warned though. The storylines are not really meant to TOTALLY "add up" the way that a Tarantino movie does. Sick back, relax and wander through the movie, without trying to figure it all out. This movie was MEANT to be experimental, fun and visually stunning, rather than tightly written.

VHS renters' bonus: At the end of the video, Quentin takes some time to unfold very cool tidbits about the director, cast and making of the film. --J.B.