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Reviews
Donnie Darko (2001)
Stunning.
The fact that this is the Directors first film is amazing to me. The scenes dripped with style, yet that style never seemed distracting. None of it was self congratulatory or gluttonous. The visuals were supported by a truly emotional score and its hard to find fault in the 80's pop tunes that found their way into some of the more impressive scenes.
The story is very much thought provoking. Its the type that leaves you pondering the possibilities voiced by the characters. There is nothing condescending about this film. Answers arent simply handed out, rather the viewer is left to draw many conclusions instead. The acting is also top notch. If i hadnt known beforehand that Patrick Swayze was in this film I would have been shocked. His character is amusing and interesting all at the same time. A great cameo for him. Drew Barrymore is forgetable, though that in no way detracts from the film. Of course the star is Jake Gyllenhaal. There is nothing that can be said to properly praise his performance. The rest of the cast chosen fit their roles perfectly. All of these things combine to create a stunning film. One can only hope that filmgoers will give this little gem a shot and support a true wonder. This is the only film I have awarded a 10/10 on the IMDB.
Juvenile Jungle (1958)
Engrossing Enough
This film was helmed by a man who two weeks ago I had never heard of. William Witney directed many films yet most are totally unaware of who he is. Thanks to Quentin Tarantino, many of us in Seattle have been somewhat enlightened. This film is a JD picture from the late 50's. Although extremely tame by todays standards, it is certainly good enough to hold the attention of all but the most impatient of my generation. As far as Witney's work is concerned, his direction is in my opinion quite good. The sets look well thought out and the pace is never slow. The story is good enough but nothing too memorable. I didn't like this movie as much as another Witney picture Tarantino presented (Santa Fe Passage)but enjoyed it purely to watch a director who was a master of his craft. In todays directorial excesses of stylish shots and flash, its good to take some time and examine a film that is more story driven than style driven. I don't think I liked this as much as Quentin, but still enjoyed it nonetheless. 6/10.
La casa nel tempo (1989)
Fulci Does the Twilight Zone
going into this film i didnt expect a whole lot. made for tv movies here in the u.s. usually arent too impressive. the same may not be said for italy apparently. of all of lucio fulci's films i've seen, this one had the tightest plot ..... well... maybe just slightly less than 'the psychic'. there are no points of the movie that drag either. those with limited attention spans will not be searching for the fast forward button. the gore is more plentiful than you'd expect too. never excessive and never lacking. the acting is surprisingly well done too. it might take some poking around but try and dig this one up. it shouldnt let you down.