dapplegrey13 Reviews

Prisoners (2013)

Go see it! Go see it! Superb thriller.

[10/10 · 29 September 2013]

If you liked "Mystic River" or "Gone Baby Gone", GO SEE THIS FILM! It was one of the most intense, suspenseful, moving, frightening films I've ever seen (and I'm a 53 year old film buff.) "Prisoners" is not a horror story; not a murder-mystery; but a sort of "kidnapped" thriller genre. It's exquisitely told without modern-day-film tricks like shaky cameras; without an actor saying "the F word" in every other sentence; without a dub-step sound track; and without gratuitous frights or even unnecessary action or car chases. It's a story of a horrible kidnapping and those who are affected. It's told with such compassion and believability. The characters make excruciating choices --choices that make you shake your head in stunned wonder. And the cast! Jake Gyllenhaal, Hugh Jackman, Maria Bello, Viola Davis, Terrence Howard, Melissa Leo, and Paul Dano! How much acting chops can one get on a movie set? And the screenplay is superb. I was on the EDGE OF MY SEAT for the entire film. I am simply blown away by this film --blown away. It's a 10 out of 10.

Go see it on the big screen so you'll know why it's nominated for many awards in a few months.

Congratulations to all involved in the making of "Prisoners" for a fine, classic film that will haunt your audience and make us very thoughtful for quite a while.

The Place Beyond the Pines (2012)

Gosling, Gosling, Gosling - heartbreaking

[7/10 · 15 April 2013]

What can one say about Ryan Gosling's performance in this film? There are just no words -- but I'll try. He is so emotive, so heart-wrenching, and yet as tough as steel. Overall, I was disappointed in the movie as I felt the last half was way, way too slow (my date actually said as the credits rolled "MAN that was a long, long movie!")

I believe, however, the first half of the film was fantastic and I was completely engrossed.

I do NOT like this director's constant extreme close-ups and shaky camera/erratic camera methods.

Eva Mendez was also more beautiful than ever and she really showed her fine acting skills, too, I felt.

Because the film was so slow towards the second half, it's hard for me to give this a strong recommendation -- however, if you're a Ryan Gosling fan, I'd say it's well worth the 2-1/2 hours to enjoy him. Thank you, thank you Ryan for giving it your all.

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Everything a movie should be.....

[10/10 · 12 January 2013]

We laughed our heads off; we got teary-eyed; we held our collective breath(s); we beamed with happiness and pride; we were stunned with surprise a few times, too. These characters are LIKABLE -- a little unpredictable -- but still WONDERFUL. The story was mesmerizing, well-paced, and COMPLETE.

Robert DeNiro was, as always, brilliant. Simply brilliant.

This film is a breath of fresh air in all ways. Although deeply troubled and confused, Bradley Cooper is absolutely lovable here. One just can't help but pull for everyone in this story.

I DO hope this film does well at the Academy Awards. Many of the other films nominated are overly artsy, pretentious, lack story-telling talent, and are DULL. Not this movie! Go see it on the big screen --you will love it.

Continental Divide (1981)

I agree with the review titled "Criminally Underrated Belushi Film"

[9/10 · 17 July 2012]

If you think you're a John Belushi fan but you've never seen this movie, then I feel for you! You have no idea what you've missed. John Belushi was never more touching, poignant, witty, or incredibly COMEDIC than in this film. His timing and his tone was dead on. I just couldn't have adored this movie any more. I've seen it over and over again (and I look forward to seeing it again!) There are TONS of quotable laugh-lines in this movie. About every fifth line is a classic, in my opinion. Where were the critics' rave reviews when this film came out? What were they thinking? This is about as wonderful as a romantic comedy can get. Thanks, thanks, thanks to all who played a part in bringing it to us. And RIP dear John Belushi. We will always miss you.

Tombstone (1993)

One of the best ever!

[10/10 · 7 February 2012]

I saw this on the big screen when it came out in 1993. After enjoying most every minute of this rich, colorful, and gripping movie, I just couldn't believe it wasn't getting more attention. It's one of the most quotable, fun, moving, memorable films ever. THIS is what movie-making is really about --creating and celebrating unforgettable characters in a compelling story.

And they managed to make it tense and moving with minimal cursing, sex, nudity, gore, etc. It is simply wonderful. Certainly not a family film; but tame on some levels, and I love it. I especially adored Dana Delaney in her role --she was breathtaking and fascinating. Oh, and Val Kilmer as Doc Holliday? Are there words? He SHOULD have been nominated for Best Supporting Actor by the Academy Awards for that performance. It's a crying shame he was not. To this day, it is a crying shame he was not nominated.

There were many good performances in Tombstone. Dana Wheeler-Nicholson was achingly sad and believable as the morphine-addicted Mattie. Sam Elliott was in top form. He was so calm and reserved --when he lost his temper in one scene, it was really frightening. Billy Zane, Thomas Haden Church, Billy Bob Thornton, Powers Boothe, Kurt Russell, Stephen Lang --many of the actors were simply fabulous. And WHAT a cast of actors! My gosh! If you watch it today (2011), it's amazing how many actors you recognize who were fairly unknown then.

Wonderful character development. It was so easy to get involved in the characters' stories and to pull for them. Yes, they took a few liberties with historical facts; but they brought the gunfight at the OK Corral and its back story to life in a grand, wildly enjoyable film with rich, interesting characters.

Tombstone is a "10" in my book. It always will be. Our family LOVES it and we quote it often. Thanks to everyone who took part in making such a great film for us, your audience, to enjoy again and again for years to come.

This Means War (2012)

Adorable comedy-action date movie!

[8/10 · 30 January 2012]

No, it may not change your life or leave you guessing or analyzing, but you'll enjoy a fun night of romance and laughter! We went to an advanced screening last week in Atlanta and we just couldn't have enjoyed it any more.

Incredibly handsome and charismatic Tom Hardy and Chris Pine as the leading men; and adorable Reese Witherspoon as the girl caught between the two of them. There is lots to enjoy and admire. Not too raw, not too profane --just the right amount of naughty and nice! Perfect for a PG-13 film and great for its Valentine's Day release. Be sure to catch it on the big screen. Studies show movies are more fun and more enjoyable with a good crowd and I definitely agree. Take a friend or a date --you won't regret it! "This Means War" is VERY funny!

Contagion (2011)

Disappointing. Not enough character development.

[7/10 · 9 September 2011]

Well, we had high hopes, but we were all disappointed when my friends and I went today to see 'Contagion'. It was certainly a very real-to-life scenario of an out of control, deadly virus in modern times. But I enjoyed "Outbreak" with Renee Russo and Dustin Hoffman better, really.

This movie was way too choppy, too unbalanced, it had WAY too many characters to keep up with and try to get to know. So, we didn't get to know any of them, and therefore, we didn't really care who lived or who died. My friends and I agreed as we were leaving; we could take it or leave it. I'd recommend waiting until it comes out on DVD.

One more note, with that incredibly brilliant stellar cast of fine actors, the filmmakers should be a bit ashamed that they came away with a film that didn't draw a single tear or stir up conversation from anyone in our audience.

Warrior (2011)

Incredibly moving story! Great screenplay.

[9/10 · 1 September 2011]

Wow! They took what could have been a maudlin concept and made it remarkable. Our group absolutely loved it. Most of us sat there and cried our eyes out. I cried toward the end, during the end, and even AFTER the film on the way home.

If you have a brother or a sister that you love, you must see this film. And you should see it on the big screen. The score, soundtrack, filming, direction, editing.... all were integral pieces of this beautiful puzzle.

What MOVING performances by all three men --Nolte, Edgerton, and Hardy. It has a brilliant, subtle, quiet kind of screenplay, to be a film with so much action and drama. You have to keep watching and don't miss a moment, as it's totally unpredictable. And yet, it's absolutely realistic.

An incredible, moving story. Not just for men, but for women too. We absolutely loved it. I can't wait to see it again.

The Patron Saint of Liars (1998 TV Movie)

Some great performances here

[7/10 · 18 August 2011]

This film isn't as useless as many of the reviewers here are writing, in my opinion. I enjoyed it, and I especially fell in love with Clancy Brown's character. He was patient, understanding, loyal, and loving.... he was SO good and believable in this role, it's the one I think of him in the most often now. I believe Clancy is more like this character than any of the others he's played.

No, they didn't explain the lead character's issues or motivations very well, but aren't many people intriguing and inexplicable in some (or many) ways? I think you can enjoy this film if you also pay special attention to the stories and characters around her. Ellen Burstyn is always a first-class actor. All of the supporting cast and characters are rich, interesting, and easy to understand. I enjoyed the movie and I'll watch it again, I'm sure, when I have an opportunity.

Clancy Brown was WONDERFUL. I wanted to marry him myself!

East Side, West Side (1949)

Very enjoyable! Can't go wrong with these stars.

[9/10 · 11 June 2011]

Whoever said this "isn't a great film" doesn't enjoy film noir and romance nearly as much as I do. And I can also guess you've never waited up all night worrying about a husband or lover.... pacing the floor, wondering what you are doing wrong, praying he or she is not having an affair --worrying yourself in to a state of illness. I have. And many of my friends have. This movie illustrated so well the multi-dimensional facets of our human characters. I don't think there was a bad guy here --there were people trying to make their relationships work, falling in love, falling out of love, being weak, being strong, having regrets, and having hope....... being very human. I really loved it. I highly recommend it.

These actors are four of the finest of their day, and with good reason. Barbara Stanwyck, James Mason, Ava Gardner, and the ever-underrated Van Heflin --wow! It's set in the heart of NYC AND directed by Mervyn LeRoy. Seriously, what a recipe for success! If you get the chance, watch and enjoy "East Side, West Side". You'll be glad you did.

Feast of July (1995)

Not given enough credit. Lovely story-telling.

[8/10 · 16 May 2011]

A lovely film of a tragic story... of sympathy and small, seemingly small impulses that eventually lead to ruin and horror.

Our heroine is a poor girl who's been seduced by a handsome, charming man who leads her to believe he loves her and will marry her. And after a month or two, he has vanished. She's left pregnant and decides to walk to the town where he said was his home (about 30 miles away). By then, she is very pregnant, it's rough terrain in terrible winter weather. She has no nourishment nor money. She miscarries along the way and the baby is formed, but dead. It's a tragedy. After a few more days, she makes it to the town where he said he lives, but no one knows him. Thankfully, she finds a kind man who takes her into his family's home. He can see she's young, ill, and desperate for a place to stay. The man and his wife have three handsome, unmarried sons who are living at home with them. When the poor girl has had a few days of rest and recovery, she gets cleaned up and dressed. It turns out she is quite pretty and charming. Slowly, tensions begin to mount as one by one, the young men make it known to her that they want to court her.

In her kindness, and mannerly ways, (and in a state of confused grieving, too, I'd say), she doesn't make herself clear enough to each of the young men. There are some misunderstandings....

The youngest son, Con, played beautifully by Ben Chaplin, is painfully shy and awkward. He stutters some and doesn't seem all that bright. But his strong desire for more in life, his jealousy of his brothers and his family in general, his overwhelming passion for HER is as clear as a bright blue sky. Eventually, he gets up the nerve to propose to her and she accepts him. They are floating on clouds, telling all the townspeople of their upcoming wedding and their joy.

Unfortunately, their happiness doesn't last long, as the cad who abandoned her is just around the corner and they are about to have a fateful encounter with him.

I won't go any further, but let me tell you that Ben Chaplin's performance is haunting. Haunting. You can see the anxiety, frustration, temper, and his impulsiveness in his entire manner. His passion for her is so strong, it seems he will just explode with it.

For steamy kissing scenes and almost-sex scenes without nudity, they don't get any better than this. I caught my breath a couple of times and may have moaned! Embeth Davis and Ben Chaplin were beautiful together. Simply beautiful throughout the film.

It's a very well-told story that seemed so real-to-life. It's still timely, or should I say "timeless". If you like historical romance and period pieces, don't miss it. It's lovely.

Water for Elephants (2011)

They DO "make em like they used to"!

[9/10 · 24 April 2011]

Remember when movies were glamorous (and not in 3-D)... when the stars were beautiful, and no one had to fornicate on screen for you to know they were walking on clouds or heart-achingly in love? Remember when quiet, wordless scenes could make tears well up in your eyes? Well, whoever may say "They don't make em like they used to" hasn't seen "The Painted Veil" or this beautiful film, "Water for Elephants". This is old-style adventure and romance --Hollywood film-making at its finest!

I didn't read the novel, but I am an avid fan of classic films, and an animal lover, and I highly recommend "Water for Elephants" for most anyone (who is at least in their teens.) The only critique I have of this movie is that it was too short! It was so beautiful and it carried me away so completely, I think I could have enjoyed it for another hour.

"Water for Elephants" sweeps you into circus life of the 1930's, during the hungry and desperate times of the Great Depression. It's a nomadic, hard-working, and very sparse life. This 2nd class circus is a defined "family" though, and they live isolated on the sullied fringes of regular society.

All three leads were truly luminous. Jacob and Marlena were both lovely and believable in their restrained, refined roles.

Christoph Waltz, as August, proved again he can be an "enigma absolute." He is charismatic and likable; his enthusiasm and joy is literally tangible, but somewhere beneath, there seems to lurk something so horrific, there simply aren't words to name it.

I have so much admiration for the magic of this Christoph Waltz after "Inglourious Basterds" and now, this new film. It is my great hope that he will choose his roles wisely and with delicacy, so that we can continue to relish in his talents for many years to come.

My virtual hat is off! Off to the writer, cinematographer, set director, art director, director, editors, costume designer, and everyone involved. "Water for Elephants" is a can't-help-but-watch-it-again movie masterpiece with music by talented James Newton Howard that will make you tap your feet one minute and then want to cry the next.

Hal Holbrook, Paul Schneider, James Frain, Mark Povinelli, and more! Wow. What outstanding work by supporting actors, and what fine casting! Hal Holbrook EASILY was old Jacob to Robert Pattinson's young Jacob. That's so hard to do, and yet, it was so easily done here.

The animal actors were first-class, too; Silver Star, Rosie, and Queenie were all achingly touchable and sweet.

Romantic, sweeping, frightening and sometimes violent --this film is TRUE-to-life while still being BIGGER-than-life.

Its tag line is "Life is the most spectacular show on earth", and once you've seen the film, it's the perfect statement.

So yes, go ahead and compare it to any of the old-style Hollywood grand classics. It deserves the acclaim and the adoration. I'll go see it again while it's still on the big screen!

Jane Eyre (2011)

Best version yet! Wonderful, supreme film.

[10/10 · 18 March 2011]

As an avid fan of the novel, I was very excited to see this preview and I have waited anxiously for the film. I finally saw it today at the threatre and it was wonderful! Excellent. This is the best film version of "Jane Eyre" yet (and I've seen most of them.) This is hands-down the best CASTING for "Jane Eyre" yet. I have never seen a more perfect Jane Eyre, Edward Rochester, or Mrs. Fairfax. Period. Jane brought tears to my eyes so many, many times in this film. She was simply perfect. Small, soft-spoken, young, composed, graceful, dignified, and lovely in her uniquely plain way. And Edward Rochester? Wow --what a ruggedly handsome man! He was certainly not "pretty-boy handsome"; but rugged, masculine, with sharp features, a deep voice, and a sometimes abrupt and harsh manner. He was exactly as described in "Jane Eyre!" BRAVO to you both, Michael Fassbender and Mia Wasikowska!

In my opinion, Fassbender and Wasikowska have finally given us perfect embodiments of all we adored in them.... Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester--two of the most beloved fictional characters of all time. Brilliant performances, really. I am truly delighted.

The sets, costumes, lighting, art, mood, cinematography, and score were all excellent. I hope the Academy Award is awake and paying attention!

Loving the novel as I do, I found a few flaws I must mention: I didn't think Blanche was nearly pretty enough; Bertha was not frightening enough; Rochester's kindnesses to Jane were not displayed here (an audience member might wonder why she loved him as she did); St. John Rivers was a much harsher character here --not gentle and lovable as he was in the book; and lastly, the film was less than two hours long and therefore too much was left out of the story. I fervently wish it could have been 20 or 30 minutes longer. Another 20 or 30 minutes might have helped the audience understand even better Jane's desolate past, her fierce love for Rochester, and her bright future.

That may sound like a lot of criticism, but you must consider what a masterpiece the novel "Jane Eyre" is. The novel is often considered ahead of its time due to its masterful portrayal of the development of a thinking and passionate young woman who is individualistic, desiring for a full life, while also highly moral.

Overall, I highly recommend the film. It was artfully told. I cried; I gasped; I laughed; I flinched; and I cried some more. I know I'll enjoy watching it again and again.

THANK YOU to the actors, director, and everyone involved in bringing this film to its fruition. Hopefully, it will prompt new generations of fans to read the novel and fall in love with Jane Eyre, as so many of us have since it was published in 1847.

This film is beautiful, romantic, frightening, sometimes funny, and ultimately very moving. See it on the big screen at the theatre. I think you'll love it!

Paul (2011)

RUN to the theatres to see this one!

[9/10 · 3 March 2011]

We saw it tonight with about 30 friends at a pre-release screening in Atlanta.

Let me say I am a 50-yr-old female film-lover. Sci fi is not my favorite genre, but I have seen most of the sci fi classics.

I didn't know what to expect as I am not always a sci-fi comedy fan. For instance, although mildly entertaining, I wasn't wild about "Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy". I was wild about some of the cast members, but not really the film.

So, we arrived and the theatre was packed. They were turning people away at the door. Although I had qualms and wasn't sure I'd like it, it turns out I LOVED it! ALL of the audience members seemed to laugh themselves in to hysterics through much of the film. And the ENTIRE AUDIENCE CLAPPED WILDLY AT THE END!

WARNING: This movie is NOT for the devoutly religious or for those who are offended by swearing and sexual references. Period. If you THINK you might be offended by anti-religion humor, swearing, or sexual references, then don't go. And I would recommend it for older teens only; NOT young teens.

Amazingly, during the first 20 minutes or so, I found myself thinking 'This is delightful! If only they could keep it THIS funny for the rest of the film..... so many comedies start out with a bang and then are just "tired" by the end of the movie.....'

But I couldn't have been more wrong. It not only kept up a wonderful pace, but introduced many great characters along the way.

If you enjoyed "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz", this will be right up your alley. There were lots of sci fi movie references (Alien, ET, Close Encounters of the 3rd Kind, Star Wars, Aliens, Predator, etc.) It had an AWESOME cast, MARVELOUS character development, and a terrific script that went from sweet and moving, to hilarious, to scary, and back. It was really SO MUCH FUN!

It is lewd, it will certainly will be offensive to some American Christians, and it is totally sci-fi, but it's absolutely hilarious. So, you sci-fi comedy lovers, GO!! RUN to the theatre to see it on the big screen. Take friends and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!

Soapdish (1991)

Adorable, funny, charming, and fun!

[10/10 · 8 February 2011]

This is an absolutely entertaining film from open to close. Fine for your 12 and up kids, hilarious, and oh so charming. It is a classic at our house! Kevin Kline and Sally Field are magic together. The film's premise, characters, script, and direction are simply delightful.

This is the kind of movie that SHOULD have been nominated for some Academy Awards, but wasn't. You can watch it time after time and laugh again, and share it with new friends and family members.

If you enjoy comedy, and if you've ever seen even five minutes of a real daytime soap opera, you'll enjoy this funny, sweet comedy. It's one of our favorites.

The Adjustment Bureau (2011)

We loved it! Imaginative, Romantic, Intriguing

[9/10 · 7 February 2011]

I was invited to a free screening with a big group of friends in Atlanta. I thought it might be right up my alley and it definitely WAS. It's similar to "Inception" (one of my very favorites), but simpler.

This fantasy-suspense-action-love story is very intriguing and ROMANTIC. I don't think any of us have seen Matt Damon be this passionate about a woman in film before. THIS is the very best Matt Damon I've ever seen -- he is at his most charming, lovable, and most moving here. And that's coming from a big fan of the Bourne Identity films, The Departed, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Rounders, and many other Damon films.

The Adjustment Bureau has a great supporting cast. Emily Blunt was delightful and mysterious..... There were quite a few laughs as well as some gasps from our audience (a packed house, too.) Most importantly, the STORY is intriguing. Yes, that's what makes the film unforgettable is simply the story. It's imaginative and very well-written.

It's a family-friendly film as best I remember --maybe PG-13 because of some almost-nudity; but no swearing, no gore, no bad scares, and no drugs or alcohol. It's all suspense, charm, intrigue, action, and romance!

If you are not a fan of The Matrix, Inception, Moon, Memento, or other fantasy type mind-benders, then you may not enjoy this film. We loved it though. We heard rave reviews from other audience members afterward, too.

Black Swan (2010)

Style over Substance

[4/10 · 7 February 2011]

Although there are many great user reviews here, I am certain the critics influenced much of that.

Yes, the ballet sequences are filmed beautifully. If you're a fan of ballet, this may be more interesting for you than most audience members. And yes, Natalie Portman is a brilliant performer. Sweetness and innocence literally exudes from her in a some magical way. She's a phenomenon. Vincent Cassel is so sexy and magnetic --truly, the cast was great.

But, the movie is still style over substance. Way over. There is just not much happening. It's pretty slow. The only interesting parts are her hallucinations. This movie is SO MUCH like the director/writer's last two films, "Requiem for a Dream" and "Pi". (And "Pi" is possibly the worst film I've ever seen!) Black Swan has better-known actors and a much bigger budget, but the bottom line is this: these films are about a person who is slowly spiraling out of control. The person is paranoid, anxiety-ridden, obsessive, fearful, and eventually hallucinatory. There is almost always hallucinated self-inflicted injuries, gore, and gratuitous sex, in addition to a lot of nothing-happening scenes..... just nothing.

I am heartily pulling for Natalie Portman for the Academy Award as she is and always has been a "to-die-for" actor. I think anyone who doesn't adore her has not seen her films. But, I certainly hope this mess of a movie doesn't receive any other awards!

Pi (1998)

Boring, painful, claustrophobic

[3/10 · 7 February 2011]

This is one of the worst movies I've ever seen. I went to see it with another movie fan at the theatre in 1998 and we almost left about 3/4 of the way through. We later regretted not leaving and joked about how bad the movie was for years! It became our benchmark for movies --you know, "How bad is it? Is it as bad as "Pi"?

"Pi" is about a young man slowly going insane, mostly alone in his apartment. He hallucinates a lot. There is lots of hallucinatory self- inflicted gore and violence. He's very paranoid, claustrophobic, fearful, but brilliant. You watch the paint dry on his apartment walls, watch his face while he does nothing, and even watch as he picks his nose. There was some meaningless dialog between shallow, not-likable characters.

I agree with the other reviewer here who said it should have been called "Pain".

Amazingly, 11 years later, I have just seen Black Swan because the critics are AGAIN calling this writer/director's work brilliant --and they even mention his earlier work "Pi". (I actually laughed out loud when I read it.) As much as I adore Natalie Portman and Vincent Cassel, I was determined not to go spend money to see Black Swan at the theatre, remembering "Pi" as I do. But the stupid Academy Award has nominated Black Swan for awards in several categories, so I felt compelled to go see it. I always see all or almost all of the nominated films every year before the Oscars, so I decided to give it a chance and hoped it would be good.

Guess what? It's about a young woman who is slowly going insane. She's hallucinating, dreaming up a lot of self-inflicted gore and violence. She's very paranoid, anxiety-ridden, fearful, but she's brilliant....

Of course, Natalie Portman IS actually brilliant. Her performance was incredible, as were many of the actors' performances in Black Swan; but sadly, the story and script are TERRIBLY SIMILAR to "Pi". I wouldn't see "Pi" again on a bet. Seriously, life is too short.

Something Wild (1961)

This film stayed with me for 30 or 40 years!

[7/10 · 17 October 2010]

I always wondered what strange, obscure film it was that I saw in the sixties as a child that haunted me for the rest of my life (I'm 50 now). I think it had a great influence on some of my choices in life -- no kidding. I finally saw it on TCM today and it's no wonder it stayed with me! It alternates between brutal and tearfully sad to uplifting and achingly tender. I wouldn't say it's a great film, but it is certainly unforgettable! I thought the score was way too strong and ear-piercing. It hurt the film. And I thought the pace of the film was simply too slow. Some of the temper tantrums seemed contrived. However, the incredible TENDERNESS of this unusual love story is simply beautiful. I don't know if I've EVER seen such a moving kiss -- and I am a devoted fan of the classics (and new movies too).

I am so glad TCM played it. I hope they will again. I would recommend "Something Wild" only to those film lovers who enjoy serious (and sometimes depressing) drama.

Firelight (1997)

Very romantic, beautiful, haunting tale!

[9/10 · 4 September 2010]

I have seen this haunting, romantic film many times. It's simply beautiful. Sophie Marceau and Stephen Dillane are a magnificent couple. Character development here is so profound that I have a hard time seeing either of them as anyone else other than their unforgettable characters from this romantic, bittersweet love story.

It's especially candlelit, filled with firelight, foggy, and dim... old castle walls... beautiful costumes, bustiers, and the whole nine yards. The storyline is completely believable, sad, and still hopeful.

It's JUST the kind of movie to watch on a rainy afternoon. I simply love it. Strong supporting cast and an all-but-perfect screenplay.

It starts in 1836 England when a beautiful young unmarried woman from Switzerland arrives. In Switzerland, her father has been imprisoned and her family is destitute. She is answering an ad about a wealthy English landowner who needs an heir, but whose wife is in a vegetative state (and she has been for many years.) The young woman agrees to sleep with the gentleman for several nights in order to get pregnant, stay in England thru her pregnancy, and then give him the baby when it is born. In return, she will receive from him a great sum of money -- a small fortune -- the money she needs to get her father out of prison and get her family back on its feet again. All of this will be done in absolute secrecy and anonymity... they agree not to even learn each others' names, for the sake of his reputation.

Doesn't this sound intriguing? It IS! It just gets better and better, too. I LOVE IT! So, rent it or buy it. Unplug the phone and darken the shades. Don't let anyone interrupt you during this unforgettable romance. ENJOY!

The White Ribbon (2009)

Wow! What a waste of time this was!

[4/10 · 30 August 2010]

Wow! I think the only time I've been more frustrated by a film is when trying to figure out a David Lynch film (or two). Except this was SLOWER.... much, much SLOWER! I wouldn't recommend this film to anyone unless he or she is the most ardent student of film who is interested in modern black and white cinematography. Please don't waste your time if your like a gripping screenplay or story.

None of the questions raised in this film were answered. The viewer is left hanging at every turn. The crimes committed were brutal and the ONLY reason to stay with this film for the two plus hours (very long hours)is the hope of getting some answers, but to no avail. No answers whatsoever! Just questions.

I'd say the only bright spot in this film was the romance between the upright, honorable school teacher and his shy fiancée. They were both charming and memorable.

But the rest? Yikes! There were no characters developed that one could pull for. So many of the children and teens favored the others that it was difficult to figure out who was who for the longest time.... not just favored each other physically; but in manner and spirit as well. Everyone seemed the same. The children were all alike, the women were all alike, etc. Dull, dull, dull.

And yes, there are some parallels between the villagers and the soon-to-come Hitler's Third Reich. But, come one... there were parallels between this film and The Village of the Damned, too. But that doesn't make this a good film. It's screenplay is terribly weak. There are many spots where it simply ceases to exist. Overall, I can categorically state this was a very unsatisfying film for me.

However, I DO highly recommend the original 1950's version of The Village of the Damned (starring Ray Milland), however. :)

Zombieland (2009)

Fun, Fear, and Laughter!

[8/10 · 5 October 2009]

We loved this movie! We will definitely watch it again and again. Woody Harrelson was born for this role. He's just fantastic. It was definitely very gory. It had a lot of action and suspense, but it was sweet, too.

There was GREAT character development and a brilliant modern script. And there is a terribly surprising, wonderful cameo. I LOVED THAT SURPRISE!

I think it's one of the best movies of the year. If you are even the slightest bit interested, go see it. Be prepared to have fun! We sure did.

Defiance (I) (2008)

Unforgettable, Moving, Oscar-worthy film.

[9/10 · 17 January 2009]

I cannot say enough wonderful things about this film. It was so moving, so beautiful, and simply unforgettable. I am thankful to Edward Zwick for making it. This is a gripping, incredible true story of bravery and responsibility, as well as human failings and flaws.

I can hardly wait to see it again. It is a must-see. I have seen most everything released in 2008 and it is one of my top picks, no doubt.

This is the kind of film that should be required viewing for all high school students (along with the Pianist, Valkyrie, and some others). I hope it will be one day.

The actors and script are first-rate. The story is inspiring and simply unforgettable. I hope there are many, many awards for this film. I think, even if the Academy is short-sighted enough to ignore it, that it will go down in history as one of the greats.

Room at the Top (1958)

Unforgettable Heartbreak

[10/10 · 10 November 2008]

I simply can't think of enough praise for this unforgettable film. It was the first time I had ever seen Simone Signoret when I rented it at a video store about five years ago. It was her Academy Award winning performance and she certainly earned it.

To me, the movie didn't really become fascinating until she appeared, but then it was mesmerizing. The movie was so beautiful on so many levels. All of the performances were sublime - the script was terse, but somehow still rich. It was really heartbreaking -- most unforgettable was Simone Signoret. She is brilliant. Simply brilliant. I've rented it and watched it three times since then and I've tried to buy it, but to no avail. Thankfully, TCM will be showing it Feb 10, 2008, so many people will have an opportunity to enjoy it. I love this film. It is simply one of the best movies I've ever seen.

Dear Ruth (1947)

Adorable Romantic Comedy!

[8/10 · 9 September 2008]

This is a funny, tender film. I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of romantic comedies. It is where I first fell in love with William Holden. He is DELIGHTFUL here, to say the least. Dear Ruth has a great cast and it's well written. It's a funny and sweet tale of mistaken identity. A great family film. I've been suggesting it on TCM.com for years, but they won't play it so far. If you have a moment and have seen this film, please suggest it on TCM.com. I can't find it on DVD or VHS. I haven't seen it in 15 or 20 years or so, but I remember it well. It was unforgettable! Again, it is one of William Holden's most romantic, sweetest roles.