ashtonmain Reviews

Heaven & Hell: North & South, Book III (1994)

Not as good as the first two, but not as bad as everyone states

[8 April 2002]

Although this movie follows the book more closely, with a few exceptions (Bent miraculously surviving everything, Cooper Main appearing out of nowhere), it is not as bad as everyone states.

The production values and editing of certain scenes could have been up to par with the first two books. Not to mention that Patrick Swayze declined to reprise his role of Orry Main, which is probably why the producers decided he will be killed in this one. Also, I think that the storyline involving Ashton scheming to take Mont Royal for herself could have been expanded.

As for the other characters, I liked the original Charles Main (played by Lewis Smith), although Kyle Chandler delivered a satisfactory performance. And, to agree with everyone else, the appearance of Cooper Main makes no sense, especially since there is no mention of Cooper in the first two movies.

If the movie were twelve hours long like the previous ones, then more explanation for certain things would have made the movie a better piece.

6/10

The Feast of All Saints (2001 TV Movie)

Wonderful adaptation of the book

[21 March 2002]

I am glad that a part of American history is finally brought to the small screen, in addition to Lifetime television's "The Courage to Love", that deals with the subject of placage (the keeping of Multiracial women by white men), class, racial identity, and destiny.

I only find two flaws in the movie. Although I thought that Marcel was good, his accent was not continuous. One minute he speaks with a flawless Creole French accent, the next minute he sounds like a 21st century teen from southern California. In addition to that, I thought that some of the younger actors, most notably the males, should have been better in executing their scenes.

With the above exceptions, the acting of the veteran actors was superb. Pam Grier played a dignified Creole woman of color, as did Victoria Rowell as the loving adoptive, yet secretive, mother of Cecile. Gloria Reuben also put forth a good performance as the haughty Cecile who secretly envies her daughter. Ruby Dee was awesome as the old guardian of Anna Bella, Madam Elsie. Jennifer Beals played a wonderful Dolly Rose. And, of course, Eartha Kitt as the seedy voodoo priestess Lola Dede.

As for the rape scene, I did not find it brutal, primarily because I have seen even more brutal rape scenes in movies (i.e., The Accused, Showgirls, etc.)

A definite winner. 8/10

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

One of the best Disney animated movies.

[21 March 2002]

Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame is definitely on my top ten list of Disney animated movies. The artwork is beautiful, the songs memorable, and the script more mature than past Disney films.

I have noticed that there was much talk about how the film is too heavy for younger children to understand. It really depends on their level of comprehension. I read that a woman, who took her kids to see this movie, was asked by her seven year old, "Why does Frollo want Esmeralda to die?" The mother simply responded, "Because he is in love with her, but she does not love him." The child quickly understood. Although the movie is much more adult than past Disney films, it is very good. It teaches children not to judge by appearances (though many adults can learn this lesson, too). Another gripe some people had was that Quasimodo did not end up with the beautiful leading lady. This is probably why Quasi gets a girlfriend in the sequel.

Finally, there are the viewers who say that Disney destroyed the original novel. I am sorry, but if the movie was closer to the book, it would not be a Disney movie. Disney has made its living off of making stories less violent and more happy and carefree. If you don't believe me, read the original "Cinderella" among others.

All in all, I find this movie a winner and give it 9/10.

Newsies (1992)

Awesome Disney Cult Classic

[21 March 2002]

When the movie first came out, I did not pay much attention to it, except for the clips of two of the song numbers that the Disney Channel would show, namely "Seize the Day" and "King of New York". I did not get a chance to see it in the theater. However, when I worked at the Disney Store the following year, I would look at the video box cover (admiring Christian's picture *wink*) and something just kept telling me to see this film. My sister purchased the video and we watched it together. I was immediately hooked. Most of the guys are cute, the songs are upbeat, and the movie has a charm that is unique to Disney movies.

Someone commented that the movie would have been better as a drama. As Newsies fans already know, originally, it was supposed to be a drama. Christian Bale was awesome as the energetic leader Jack Kelly. David Moscow was great as the more educated brains-of-the-outfit sidekick David Jacobs. Luke Edwards played a cute Les Jacobs. And Gabriel Damon was perfect as the no-nonsense Brooklyn leader, Spot Conlon.

One critical point- the romantic angle between Jack Kelly (Bale) and Sarah Jacobs (Ele Keats) was wasted. Although there is an attraction, there is no real chemistry between the two.

A solid 8/10.