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nrjohns
Reviews
Powder (1995)
Powder keg
Trailers can be annoying at the beginning of a DVD but they can also be really useful. This film is evidence of the latter for me. We had seen this one advertised and thought it looked interesting, which is why when no other films jumped out at us from the video shop shelves we chose it.
A very moving film that hits at the heart of all that is wrong in modern society - the disconnectedness of people from one another and from their environment. My sister would have seen the story as 'slow', it is not replete with action, there are no huge set-pieces, but it has an enormous power just the same.
The acting is without exception excellent, and, though I agree with some reviewers that there is stereotyping, I would also say that the reason that stereotypes exist is that there is SOME truth in them and that seems to me to be their function in Powder's universe.
We both fell in love with the film and with the main character. If humanity could tap into its best instead of emphasising its worst traits then there is nothing we could not achieve as a species. Hate and fear holds us back I believe and the film is about trying to overcome these emotions and seek to reconnect with the best of ourselves and our surroundings.
I have to admit that the film also brought me some comfort when my sister ("it's too slow") died from the long-term effects of rheumatoid arthritis; especially the ending which is truly inspiring and beautiful and a blessed surprise. Films don't surprise me very often, but this one did and I have to say thank you to all the people involved in it.
Vampire Diary (2006)
Let the right one in does it better
I usually enjoy anything with vampires and zombies in it - this was the exception. The story is not very interesting, and the central theme about dependency and vampire-human relationships was better explored in Let the Right One in.
It all feels very small which I suppose reflects the fact that one of the main characters is supposed to be making a documentary about weekend vampires. Still, small locations, small cast, small number of ideas.
The acting is not too bad, but there is just too little to work with. For instance, a fairly intense and straight-laced young woman (albeit the product of a troubled youth) suddenly becomes a serial killing accomplice as a result of her passion for a lesbian vampire. Just doesn't work - no soul searching just a total and immediate commitment to murder.
It is sexy though, so if this is a priority for you then you might enjoy it. Not for me though... My copy will be finding a new home :)
Legion (2010)
Legion a film not a religious statement
Having watched the film a few times I am in the minority on this one. I enjoyed it. Frankly I'm not interested in its theological accuracy because I don't think this was its point. A tip to begin with: If you want to watch films with religious objectives or for theological accuracy then do not bother with this...
If, however, you want to watch a fairly entertaining film with some good action (albiet not wall-to-wall, some good acting and a few really creepy moments then give this a go.
There are some criticisms that I do accept. The characters could be fleshed out more fully and the script is equally patchy at times, but, the film has a mystery about it. The reasons for God's wrath are not entirely clear though they are hinted at, the identity of the infant saviour is not apparent, nor what can be done to redeem humanity. Personally I like a bit of mystery.
If you don't want to be educated by films (I generally don't) or intellectually challenged (I do at times) or to have your religious views reinforced/endorsed (I don't have any) then I think you should give this a chance.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
FOTR: Film as art :)
I am amazed that people found this film boring, but then I loved the books. There are moments in the film that were jaw-dropping for me, as if what I'd imagined were brought to life! The Shire is exactly as I'd seen it in my mind's eye.
As with any book-to-film adaptations there are things out of place or that are simply wrong. For example: Some of the characters are miscast - Frodo should be much older and Aragorn should be grim and careworn. The ageism and looksism in film would not allow a true portrayal.
The story is changed in key places. Particularly the ending which does not fully reflect the end of the book.
There are other issues but I don't see that any of this detracts from the fact that this is a superb film. Even the altered end has a purpose, it creates a stronger conclusion so that the film is more self contained.
It is a work of art. The filming is truly spectacular and many of the scenes would make great paintings. The acting is mostly excellent and the story, borrowed from great classical works and mythology, has spawned thousands of imitations (including Star Wars). What could be better than that. My advice is watch it and read the books, enjoy them as linked but free-standing works of art :)