Change Your Image
davidrhabif
Reviews
Almost Famous (2000)
My Profound Response: I Feel Good
Despite certain aspects of this film that carry with them dramatic undertones, Almost Famous is, overall, a fun, light-hearted journey back to a time when we could let our hair down. Literally (and figuratively, of course). This film intrigues me, I imagine, for a different reason than it does it's audience born before 1970 -- I missed the sex, drugs, and rock-n- roll revolution by much more than a decade, and this story is an incredibly enjoyable depiction of a time I'll only ever know through here-say.
Writer and director Cameron Crowe certainly chose to stick to a more happy-go-lucky depiction of a time in American history that was not only exciting and expressive, but also characterized by severely questionable decision-making and intravenous drug use. Nevertheless, this film succeeded in connecting with me on and emotional and physical level -- I laughed a lot and I really feel good.
I was specifically impressed with Jason Lee's performance. He stands out both as a character and as a presence on the screen. I also have to acknowledge Patrick Fugit for portraying such a likable, relatable protagonist. I felt like I was on the journey with him.
Highly recommended!
Q (2011)
Falls Short In Every Category
Director Laurent Bouhnik had an interesting idea, but it didn't translate well on screen. I consider almost every aspect of this film a very rough draft.
1. Character development is almost non-existent. 2. The narrative is choppy and many scenes are unnecessary. 3. The plot lacks direction. 4. The acting is okay at best. 5. None of the characters are particularly likable.
Bottom Line: I've read several reviews that praise this film for it's success in it's depiction of eroticism, however, Bouhnik's overly-heavy focus on sex and erotic behavior doesn't leave enough room for the characters or the story to develop properly. I will admit that there are several (individual) scenes that are strong--diamonds in the rough, if you will--but when the film was over, I had taken nothing from it, felt nothing during it, and was generally uninterested in the story and the characters.