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Tap (1989)
great dance and appealing story
First there is great dance. This has a good collection of virtuoso tap dance scenes. I am not an expert on tap; these are good dancers. A cameo by Sammy Davis Jr. Secondly, the love scene really moved me. It is understated, yet it brought me back to my younger days. Overall, the film has a simple and solid story. There is a child whose role enhances the adult story. The "gangster" parts may seem weak--this is not "Goodfellas". But they do the job to balance out the sentimental stuff. The water dripping...perhaps it is not quite a metaphor. But it is the foundation for a rhythm, a rhythm that ties the sordid part of the protagonists life (prison) with an opportunity to break free from the underworld. Gregory Hines plays the role of a man who needs to decide what he really wants. He has an idea for a creative venture. He can have the meaningful relationship that has eluded him. That would be with the redoubtable woman admirably played by Suzzanne Douglass. Always there is the pull of his past criminal ties. I really identified with all of the characters in this charming film.
Missile (1988)
a balanced and nuanced facet of nuclear warfare
(If this is the film I saw on video about 15 years ago:) this fascinating documentary takes us through the training within the military of people whose job is to "push the button" in the event that the President made the decision to launch a nuclear strike. Particularly memorable are the myriad acronyms that the instructor uses in referring to the various elements of a very complex system. That system is designed to ensure that an accidental launch does not happen. The training is grueling, as well it should be, and the individual whose progress we have been following is tested at the end of the film. Included are philosophical discussions about the ethics of carrying out such an order from the President. I think one can gain insight into the subject of warfare whether one is "for" the use of the horrific weapons developed and deployed during the Cold War or not.
Chicago (2002)
I agree with review in the New Yorker magazine.
The music part of this musical is 99% of the film. There are so many great sing-and-dance numbers--it is just that it doesn't let up. The volume is always on high. No modulation. It is in your face for two hours. My favorite number was with the brunette (Catherine Zeta-Jones?) showing her rival how they might do a duet. Very cute.