As an avid lover of parrots " I have an African Congo Gray" and have had many birds in my life, I had many reservations before seeing this movie. I was worried it would be another childish attempt to lure young kids into the theaters for nothing more then profit. I am happy to say I was wrong. From the opening frame, the movie takes on a beautifully painted portrait of the life of a Conure named Paulie and all of his relationships with humans, from his early days with his beloved owner Maria, through his many adventures in search of her, after he is taken away. I know I am speaking vague but, I do not intend to give any link to spoilers here. This masterpiece should be watched with no pre-know idea's. The acting, directing, pre and post production work are like a great work of art. Laughter and tears flow freely in this film for both child and adult alike. Paulie is one of the finest motion picture productions to date.
Reviews
18 Reviews
The Polar Express
(2004 Video Game)
One of the finest Christmas films in decades
6 January 2006
I just had to spell out Christmas in caps, just to protest all this evil nonsensically political correctness. My goodness, not since Albert Finnys 1970 musical "Scrooge" have I experienced such a magical ride as I did on the Polar Express. Although, some of the animation which lay across the actors faces was a bit distracting, this film was like a happy childhood dream. Beautiful newly written holiday songs plus old standards filled my ears while my eyes and soul were filled with the magic of Christmas and Santa. How anyone could not love this film epic is beyond me. To all those far left wingers that did not enjoy Polar Express I say Bah Humbug!
November
(I) (2004)
A film that makes you use your mind.
6 January 2006
I could go on for pages, describing how wonderful Courteney Cox's performance is in this artistic indie flick, but, as most of you know, I enjoy all of Courteney's work anyway, so, I will dispel from my usual Cox worshiping. Here is a film that not only lives up to it's potential, it surpasses it. Many have said they could not quite understand the films end, nor many of it's darker moments. It was all explained early on when Sophie explains to her photography class " You make the viewer see only what you want them to see" or something to that effect. And if you consider the character believes what she preaches, you will understand that she also makes herself see only what is in frame.She Paints herself sort of a "last portrait" of her life so reality can be cast aside. Sounds confusing?, Well think about it and perhaps you will learn something about yourself in the process. My best to all.
Seizure
(1974)
Seizure-Jonathan Frid's Exit from Dark Shadows
24 July 2005
Back in the spring of 1974, I was a freelance writer in Manhattan, New York. While at distributing office in New Jersey, the editor and publisher of the magazine " Castle of Frankenstein" asked me if I wanted to do an interview with Jonathan Frid, about his new film SEIZURE. Well having been a fan of both Frid and Dark Shadows, I jumped at the chance. After interviewing Frid in his apartment, I also had a telephone interview with Oliver Stone, who told me of his future projects. I, at the time was only interested in his current project, SEIZURE. Little did I know how important Mr. Stone would someday be. After meeting with and buying some photo's from the films photographer and co-star Herve' Villachaze " meeting him was a treat in itself" I did the article. After 6 month the film was released in New York. The best and only safe place to see it was, believe it or not, the Lyrick theatre of 42nd street. Now, not that Seizure was a masterpiece, but,in a time where horror films were almost non-existent this was a nice treat. The music, photography and editing were all top notch, as well as the entire cast, who all played their parts as over the top as humanly possible. Seizure was a high guilty low budget film, that to this day has gone nowhere. In the late 80's the film was released on video, but was soon pulled off the market mainly due to Oliver Stones objections. Too bad, with all of the high budget c.g.i. horror films out today, it would be nice to see a tale like Seizure, a low budget film that is packed with high quality acting and writing.
The Shrink Is In
(2001)
The Shrink is in, chemistry abounds!
23 July 2005
It is amazing to me how many higher budget films are released with such an amount of hoopla, about nothing. It seems that critics have their favorite actors and whatever they are in, somehow makes the project they are reviewing great. The Shrink is in is a funny and sweet fantasy in which Courteney and David play parts which sum up their relationship. That is: Different, funny and loving. The plot, although not altogether plausible, works well because of the chemistry between the actors and the fast paced directing. Film budgets do not break or make a film. The Shrink is in is proof of that. "You've Got Mail" did not have anything over this film except a large studio budget. God bless the Indies.
The Last Man on Earth
(1964)
VINCENT PRICE'S BEST WORK! LAST MAN ON EARTH!
14 June 2001
It is amazing how a production company with absolutly no budget can put together a film with the class that this little known 1964 feature has. The Omega Man was an interesting remake but, could not even come close to the emotional impact that this black and white motion picture put forth.
Vincent Price is the element that brought this tale of a world of the un-dead to life. From the films earliest moments we are transported into a gloomy hopeless void. The key to this films greatness is the acting performance Vincent Price gave. From his voice overs to his reaction shots, Mr. Price was a statue of perfection.
One of the films most powerful moments takes place at night, while ghouls are banging at Price's front door he plays home movies, with the aid of a power generator. Near the end of the reel a comedic circus scene plays out. Mr. Price begins to laugh, to the point of being out of control, then with a transformation like none you will ever again see,he bursts into tears.
Last Man on Earth has all the element that make a classic film. It leaves you with a sad feeling in the pit of your stomach. How many of todays high budget films can you say do that. Most of them just make you sick.
The Last Man on Earth---Thank You Vincent Price, we miss you.
Vincent Price is the element that brought this tale of a world of the un-dead to life. From the films earliest moments we are transported into a gloomy hopeless void. The key to this films greatness is the acting performance Vincent Price gave. From his voice overs to his reaction shots, Mr. Price was a statue of perfection.
One of the films most powerful moments takes place at night, while ghouls are banging at Price's front door he plays home movies, with the aid of a power generator. Near the end of the reel a comedic circus scene plays out. Mr. Price begins to laugh, to the point of being out of control, then with a transformation like none you will ever again see,he bursts into tears.
Last Man on Earth has all the element that make a classic film. It leaves you with a sad feeling in the pit of your stomach. How many of todays high budget films can you say do that. Most of them just make you sick.
The Last Man on Earth---Thank You Vincent Price, we miss you.
Commandments
(1997)
A SELF INDULGENT LOOK AT GOD
15 April 2001
Being a young widowed man, I was most anxious to see Commandments. Also, if you have read any of my other film revues, you should know how much I enjoy seeing Courteney Cox's work. However,despite all my efforts, I could not find enough substance within this motion picture to really enjoy it
The plot: a recently widowed man fusses at God due to his recent string of bad luck, ie death of his wife, tornado coming from no where and destroying, only his home, leaving his neighbors untouched, and so on. He then decides to break all the commandments as a way to challenge God to sort of a duel?
The photography was dark and dreary, even on sunny day scenes, giving the film a "life is so drab" undertone. We watch as the main character one by one breaks all of the commandments, which include a tastefully executed love scene with his brothers wife, played by Courteney Cox. As always, Ms.Cox's work was most admirable.
I can tell you first hand what being widowed is like, the pain and frustration are overwhelming. Commandments does not hit any of those marks. It is rather a self indulgent film that through black humor, tries to have us take a look at our own belief's. I won't even mention the ending.I will leave that for you to discover. Hey,you may enjoy this film more than I, but I doubt it.
The plot: a recently widowed man fusses at God due to his recent string of bad luck, ie death of his wife, tornado coming from no where and destroying, only his home, leaving his neighbors untouched, and so on. He then decides to break all the commandments as a way to challenge God to sort of a duel?
The photography was dark and dreary, even on sunny day scenes, giving the film a "life is so drab" undertone. We watch as the main character one by one breaks all of the commandments, which include a tastefully executed love scene with his brothers wife, played by Courteney Cox. As always, Ms.Cox's work was most admirable.
I can tell you first hand what being widowed is like, the pain and frustration are overwhelming. Commandments does not hit any of those marks. It is rather a self indulgent film that through black humor, tries to have us take a look at our own belief's. I won't even mention the ending.I will leave that for you to discover. Hey,you may enjoy this film more than I, but I doubt it.
Mr. Bean
(1990–1995)
MR.BEAN--A PORTRAIT OF COMEDIC GENIUS
15 April 2001
Most Britcom imports that I have seen over the years have always brought laughter. It the mid 90's PBS began running episodes of Mr. Bean.
Rowin Atkinson, far better known in the UK and Europe then here in the States, is one of the most talented actors and comedians anywhere. He has to be. To take a character that is normally mute, always plotting mischief, and goes on more hair brained schemes and adventures then the entire Monty Python crew is,as Mr. Bean would put it," Absolutely Brilliant".
Even the most hardened sceptic will find this series so overwhelming funny that they would scream for more. Alas, there were only 13 episodes filmed. Rowin Atkinson has stated that he felt there was nothing more for Mr. Bean to do. Too bad. I can see a series, such as this going on for hundreds of episodes.
If you want to have a really good time with a wonderfully lovable goof ball, Watch this BBC classic!
Rowin Atkinson, far better known in the UK and Europe then here in the States, is one of the most talented actors and comedians anywhere. He has to be. To take a character that is normally mute, always plotting mischief, and goes on more hair brained schemes and adventures then the entire Monty Python crew is,as Mr. Bean would put it," Absolutely Brilliant".
Even the most hardened sceptic will find this series so overwhelming funny that they would scream for more. Alas, there were only 13 episodes filmed. Rowin Atkinson has stated that he felt there was nothing more for Mr. Bean to do. Too bad. I can see a series, such as this going on for hundreds of episodes.
If you want to have a really good time with a wonderfully lovable goof ball, Watch this BBC classic!
Brainscan
(1994)
Brainscan, A classy B+ horror trip.
14 April 2001
Now lets see, Boy likes video games, boy becomes a murderer because of video games, sounds stupid? Well, to my surprise, BRAINSCAN was a wonderful trip through the warped imagination of the films devious writers. The film does copy many modern day classics, but, with a unique flair.
Freddy Kruger look out! The lead ghoul in this flick can appear any time. You need not be asleep when he comes to call. The plot, oh yes, it has one, although it is not that unusual,does hold your interest The characters are quite vivid and work well in telling this dream like tale. Basically, the film is more of a comedy. One liners flow like the blood of many of the films hapless victoms.
I would have probably enjoyed this horror venture a lot more have I been a much younger man. It has been many years since I saw my teens or in fact my 20's, but Brainscan is one of those rare movies that can appeal to anyone who enjoys a good horror spoof.
Freddy Kruger look out! The lead ghoul in this flick can appear any time. You need not be asleep when he comes to call. The plot, oh yes, it has one, although it is not that unusual,does hold your interest The characters are quite vivid and work well in telling this dream like tale. Basically, the film is more of a comedy. One liners flow like the blood of many of the films hapless victoms.
I would have probably enjoyed this horror venture a lot more have I been a much younger man. It has been many years since I saw my teens or in fact my 20's, but Brainscan is one of those rare movies that can appeal to anyone who enjoys a good horror spoof.
Night of Dark Shadows
(1971)
MGM KILLED NIGHT OF DARK SHADOWS
14 April 2001
In 1975 I was a freelance writer in New York. During that year I was honored to interview stage and screen actress and one of the stars from Dark Shadows, Grayson Hall. It was during this interview that I learned why NIGHT OF DARK SHADOWS was such a bad film.
The late Ms. Hall related a story which told of how MGM called her husband, "Dark Shadows writer" Sam Hall and told him that he would have to fly out to California and edit out nearly 30 min. from his latest film. After his sad task was done he returned home and shortly thereafter the film was released. It was not up to the standards the the series nor MGM's hit from just the year before "House of Dark Shadows" had. The idea was excellent. Dialog well written, stylishly photographed and wonderful performances from the cast. The problem was the fact that the feature made little sense. It plotted along for 90 min's filled with questions and vagueness.
However, the good news is that most of the edited footage has been found and is now in the process of being re-edited. Night of Dark Shadows, through the popularity of the series, is in a sense going to be re-born. Sam Hall's work shall now be seen as it was created. Perhaps then we will be able to appreciate this classic haunted house story, the way it should be, without studio butchering.
The late Ms. Hall related a story which told of how MGM called her husband, "Dark Shadows writer" Sam Hall and told him that he would have to fly out to California and edit out nearly 30 min. from his latest film. After his sad task was done he returned home and shortly thereafter the film was released. It was not up to the standards the the series nor MGM's hit from just the year before "House of Dark Shadows" had. The idea was excellent. Dialog well written, stylishly photographed and wonderful performances from the cast. The problem was the fact that the feature made little sense. It plotted along for 90 min's filled with questions and vagueness.
However, the good news is that most of the edited footage has been found and is now in the process of being re-edited. Night of Dark Shadows, through the popularity of the series, is in a sense going to be re-born. Sam Hall's work shall now be seen as it was created. Perhaps then we will be able to appreciate this classic haunted house story, the way it should be, without studio butchering.
Evil Dead II
(1987)
EVIL DEAD II--YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD GHOUL DOWN!
8 April 2001
Since the early 80's American horror movies have changed their format. Rather than move along with one scare after another and thus always keep the audience on the edge of their seats a new element was added,COMEDY.
Not that a laugh now and then isn't a good idea, it is, but, almost every film from Scream to Nightmare on Elm Street has it's funny moments. It is getting to be a bit to much in my opinion. However, Evil Dead II breaks all the rules by being funny all the time. It works!! The cheezy special effects and Bruce Campbell's over acting add flavor to this simple but effective story.
If you can believe that a man can cut off his own hand with a chain saw and then fight off, with great gusto, demons from hell your in for a treat. This film is relentless with one shock after another. Anyone who I know who has see this feature has the same opinion, it was a hell of a ride. I will give EVIL DEAD II a 10 for it's feverish enthusiasm, wonderful erie mood and extra special camera work.If you dig zombie movies, THIS ONE"S FOR YOU.
Not that a laugh now and then isn't a good idea, it is, but, almost every film from Scream to Nightmare on Elm Street has it's funny moments. It is getting to be a bit to much in my opinion. However, Evil Dead II breaks all the rules by being funny all the time. It works!! The cheezy special effects and Bruce Campbell's over acting add flavor to this simple but effective story.
If you can believe that a man can cut off his own hand with a chain saw and then fight off, with great gusto, demons from hell your in for a treat. This film is relentless with one shock after another. Anyone who I know who has see this feature has the same opinion, it was a hell of a ride. I will give EVIL DEAD II a 10 for it's feverish enthusiasm, wonderful erie mood and extra special camera work.If you dig zombie movies, THIS ONE"S FOR YOU.
Attack of the Crab Monsters
(1957)
Low budget Crab Monsters spell big fun.
7 April 2001
In the late 1960's, television independents were not what they are today. They, the local stations, had little, to no money for quality program broadcasts. One of the tricks that many of these stations had was to strip, for a five day run, a low budget movie. Attack of the Crab Monsters was one of them. I loved the film as a child. Even though I was at such a young age, I could still comprehend how poorly this film was produced. Nevertheless I marveled at it's wonderful imagination.
After viewing it recently, I realized how special this film really is. Remember now, it has been almost 20 years since I saw this feature and while I was expecting to look at this work with nostolgic dismay, I was very surprised that it was so much fun to watch.
Forget logic, decent special effects or good acting, you won't find any of those things here. What you will find however, is a campy silly yarn with crabs that eat the brains of humans and by doing so, gain their knowledge and personality.
The crabs have wonderfully scarey faces. And believe it or not personality. Too bad this film is so hard to come by.
If there is, but, one hideously produced film, for you to see in you life time, make it Attack Of the Crab Monsters.
After viewing it recently, I realized how special this film really is. Remember now, it has been almost 20 years since I saw this feature and while I was expecting to look at this work with nostolgic dismay, I was very surprised that it was so much fun to watch.
Forget logic, decent special effects or good acting, you won't find any of those things here. What you will find however, is a campy silly yarn with crabs that eat the brains of humans and by doing so, gain their knowledge and personality.
The crabs have wonderfully scarey faces. And believe it or not personality. Too bad this film is so hard to come by.
If there is, but, one hideously produced film, for you to see in you life time, make it Attack Of the Crab Monsters.
Dark Shadows
(1966–1971)
Dark Shadows, the most creative show in television history.
3 April 2001
Daytime television back in 1966 was as drab as it's black and white broadcasts. That was until June 27th when ABC T.V. aired the Dan Curtis series Dark Shadows. Billed as a gothic series the show in it's first 10 months or so, moved on rather slowly. Although supernatural in tone, most of the story lines were nothing more than mysteries. The series was going down the tubes. Dan Curtis, after having a conversation with his young children decided to go all the way with the show and introduced the character of Barnabas Collins, a 175 year old vampire. Jonathan Frid a Canadian born classicly trained actor won the part. An interesting note is that Bert Parks also was a runner up to play the vampire. From the moment Barnabas was released from his coffin the series became a hit. Over it's five year run many other characters were introduced, all involved with things that go bump in the night.
The series had many time travel plots which had the cast in wardrobe of the period. It was classy and fun to watch. Back in those days budgets were not what they are today. Alas, Dark Shadows was produced live on tape. No editing or re-shoots were done resulting in far less than perfect episodes. Nevertheless, the show was astounding! Poe-Shakespeare, you name it, Dark Shadows peered it's eye at all the classics and played them out with a passion unlike anything that had aired on television back in those rabbit ear days. One of the most enjoyable thing about the series was that, because of it's imperfections, the viewers felt a warmth for the cast, as it was a well known fact, even in those days that this was edge of your seat acting.
Dark Shadows Festivals have been going on since the early 80,s and I am sure that like Barnabas Collins, Dark Shadows shall live on forever.
The series had many time travel plots which had the cast in wardrobe of the period. It was classy and fun to watch. Back in those days budgets were not what they are today. Alas, Dark Shadows was produced live on tape. No editing or re-shoots were done resulting in far less than perfect episodes. Nevertheless, the show was astounding! Poe-Shakespeare, you name it, Dark Shadows peered it's eye at all the classics and played them out with a passion unlike anything that had aired on television back in those rabbit ear days. One of the most enjoyable thing about the series was that, because of it's imperfections, the viewers felt a warmth for the cast, as it was a well known fact, even in those days that this was edge of your seat acting.
Dark Shadows Festivals have been going on since the early 80,s and I am sure that like Barnabas Collins, Dark Shadows shall live on forever.
The Haunting
(1963)
THE HAUNTING, MAY HAUNT YOUR SOUL!
1 April 2001
Forget computer imaging, blood, gore and monsters popping out of closets,YOU WON"T NEED THEM. Robert Wise's 1963 The Haunting is without a doubt not only the best Haunted House film of all time, but, one of the finest horror films ever made. The excellent cast and story do however, take second place to the house itself. " The house, it's alive" as the character Elenor so perfectly stated, early on in the film, is the reason why The Haunting brings out our most basic reasons for fear. Evil, faceless relentless, forboding evil. The house is not filled with spider webs and dust. There are no dungons nor anything that would turn this film into the usual horror flick. Your own imagination is the key. Yes, your own mind is the key to Hill House. Robert Wise knew this when making this film back in 1963. Believe me what people have said over the years is true. Don't see this film alone, that is unless your not afraid of the dark! I wasn't till I saw this masterpiece. Now my night light is my bed time friend.
Curse of the Demon
(1957)
The Demon could scare away the Blair Witch!
1 April 2001
Lets face the facts. Most horror films made in the 1950's were at best, fun to watch. Night of the Demon,re-titled Curse of the Demon was a land mark in horror film making. As the film opens we are transported into a black and white dream, a nightmare. From the pictures opening moments we are in a race of fast paced action and dialog.The movie, believe it or not, has a plot. A reporter is investigating a witchcraft cult. Perfectly played by Dana Andrews, the reporter "A Dis-believer" finds that he must forget what he thought he knew and accept the unbelievable. The perfect editing and mood making music" Composed by the same group who gave us the soundtrack to A Christmas Carol, starring Alistar Sim, lends itself to the films heart pounding climax. Directed by Jacques Tourneur, Night of the Demon is one of the finest examples of the classic story of GOOD VERSUS EVIL. The Demon itself was so well conceived and created that it rivals many of our present day monsters. For a scarey good time, that is not just a blood fest, this film is just what the witch doctor ordered.
Friends
(1994–2004)
Talent abounds on FRIENDS
21 March 2001
Friends is one of the most amazing sitcoms in television history. While half hour comedies come and go, FRIENDS remains a top rated series for almost seven seasons.WHY? you may ask. Well, first lets look at the cast. All six actors are not only extremely talented but work well as an ensamble. They " the cast" have often admitted that they liked and cared about each other. This makes for flawless performances. The series true star COURTENEY COX shines in each episode by always reaching and holding on to new comedic highs and powerful dramatic moments. The entire cast show a vast range of talent. The only problem that I can see with the series, is the constant intrusions by guest stars. What NBC fails to understand is that this series needs no Hollywood celebs. to get high ratings.
Behind the scenes are the shows un spoken hero's The WRITERS. Television is like a shark, it eats material. It takes the most wonderfully gifted writers to crank out, 160 episodes with the quality that this series has. Alas, after next season the show must end. Friends, television at it's best.
Behind the scenes are the shows un spoken hero's The WRITERS. Television is like a shark, it eats material. It takes the most wonderfully gifted writers to crank out, 160 episodes with the quality that this series has. Alas, after next season the show must end. Friends, television at it's best.
The Runner
(1999)
Courteney Cox overtakes The Runner!
14 March 2001
Yes, there have been quite a number of films ranging from drama's to comedies on the subject of gambling. But, The Runner is a cut above the rest. Beautifully photographed and stylishly produced the films direction is fast paced from start to finish. John Goodman talents come through full force as Deep Throat, an unseen played who, with the help of many his runners, has a foot hold or should I say a throat hold on the entire gambling scene. The entire cast does an excellent job with their various characters. However, Courteney Cox shines through as the films brightest star. From one of the films eariler comedic moments " The runner has a serious problem of a gastric nature" on his first date with Cox to her near death- birth of their child. Courteney Cox's work in this film was indeed a treat for anyone who wishes to see a talented actress on screen.
ALF
(1986– )
NBC KILLED ALF
14 March 2001
When Alf debut on NBC, back in the fall of 86, most critics felt that the wise cracking alien from Melmac would crash, never to be seen again. But, the old Alfer proved them wrong. After a fair rating average the series picked up steam during the summer rerun season of that same year. Alf reached a rating high in July 1986 placing the series in fifth place on the nielson ratings chart. The funny furball from space had weekly adventures with the Tanner family. Most episodes circled around Alf's strange nature and keeping him hidden from the world. Of course, during the series 4 year run Alf made some new friends. The talented cast included Max Wright, Andrea Elson, Ann Sheedon and Bengi Gregory. It was during the series 4th year while NBC was going through many department head changes that Alf was killed off. Constant time slot changes to boost ratings, resulting in a confused and lost audience with the climaxing insult, placing the series on Sunday nights " THE DEATH SLOT" The series ended with Alf being captured by the government. Several years later a rather poor t.v. movie let us know how the little alien was doing. Alf still remains one of televisions most loved and fun series to date. Why NBC gave up on the series? I guess the answer to that question is LOST IN SPACE.
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