belalugosihouse Reviews

Paris When It Sizzles (1964)

Paris, too unbelievable to sizzle

[3/10 · 26 June 2017]

This movie begins with an appearance by Noel Coward, well known for extremely fast dialog (a foreshadowing of what is to come). I had high hopes for this movie, simply because of Audrey Hepburn and William Holden, however, from the beginning, the dialog is so fast and furious that it gets annoying, despite the witty lines. I usually use the closed captioning in these types of films (like "His Girl Friday, "Bringing Up Baby"), it helps a little. The movie calms down a bit at times, but could have been a much better film if everyone had just relaxed a bit...the script is likable. The age difference between Holden and Hepburn is a little jarring, but not as much as when she starred with Gary Cooper or Fred Astaire. I would recommend, but for those drinking lots of caffeine only. P. S. I could only stand it halfway, then had to turn off, so unfortunately this review is based on that.

By the Sea (2015)

The sea is the best thing that happens

[5/10 · 8 May 2017]

I kept waiting for something to happen to these two beautiful people. They are bored, and apparently not attracted to each other any more, but staying at a beautiful place surrounded by gorgeous scenery. They are unhappy, though. It's hard to empathize with these characters. Then they become obsessed with the newlywed neighbors, watching them have sex through a hole in the wall. Brad and Angelina become voyeurs, a turn-on, but not enough for their relationship. We find out later, it's because she's "barren," in a scene that is almost laughable. Kept waiting for Angelina to show some emotion. I became bored early with her wooden performance. First saw this movie before their break-up, and saw it again recently. I can recommend it based on foreshadowing of the cracks in their marriage, leading up to the real life break-up. So much can be seen between the lines. For the beautiful scenery, I would definitely recommend. But for anyone who doesn't appreciate slow-moving films, you will probably not enjoy.

The Baby (1973)

Bizarre viewing for your pleasure

[8/10 · 5 January 2014]

This is one of those really bizarre films that those of us who appreciate this kind of thing can really enjoy. I did. With the glee of voyeurism, and the thrill of horror, I can say I recommend it. Also, who could resist the 1970s look, feel, and clothes? What a trip back in time. Whoever remembers Ruth Roman in her glory days will be a little unsettled, but she delivers an appropriately creepy performance. The ending was totally unexpected, as others have noted. I will watch this again. The only criticism is that I wish the actor playing "Baby" was incredibly good looking instead of average, and that the baby cries were his, instead of a dubbed baby, which would make it above average and more creepy. I love Anjanette Comer, especially her performance in "The Loved One." Here she is perfect.

Gunsmoke: Hidalgo (1972) Season 17, Episode 17

Hidalgo is no Three Amigos

[6/10 · 28 May 2013]

This is a good episode of Gunsmoke....but we've seen it before... Matt is chasing a criminal (lol, as another poster said, he has to ride 25 days to Mexico) but, as all TV shows go (especially Gunsmoke...which I am a big fan of BTW), we must suspend our disbelief. When the bandito leaves Matt for dead, a grandfather and his grandson nurse him back to health, with the help of the bad guy's beautiful girlfriend. A touching story, really. But absolutely no similarity to Three Amigos in plot, as another reviewer suggested....there is about a minute when the 3 Mexican bad guys are together and it's a little funny, but that's all, except the actor that plays El Guapo in 3 Amigos is in this playing the notorious bandit. As usual, everything turns out alright in the end, Matt rides into the sunset, and a few tears are shed (by me) and the young boy.