delaine-3 Reviews

Hot Fuzz Special (2007 TV Movie)

The super perfect London policeman

[9/10 · 29 September 2007]

I found this English film to be unbelievably humorous and at times, side-splittingly funny!. Brilliant writing! One must pay careful attention to every word, as many words (and actions) are incredibly subtle. This is a film that satirizes many older classic films, and an old film buff like myself was able to recognize many (but probably not all) of the rip-offs! Not only the story, but the manner of filming, the lighting and the camera angles were remarkable in their replication of earlier filming techniques.

Although I adore English films, and I even have some "Veddy" British relatives, some of the spoken parts were difficult to comprehend. I was forced to activate the "English subtitle" option in the bonus list.

Finally, though this film is a bit long, it's well worth the time, and I look forward to seeing it again. Jolly good show!

Smiley's People (1982)

The conclusion of a compelling series of stories about Smiley's world

[10/10 · 19 October 2006]

I have read the books and seen the films countless times, and I am always held captive by the tales themselves. Guiness is incredibly subtle, showing pain, disgust, sadness, and finally determination with a mere eyebrow raised, a pinch of his lips, and a furrowed brow.

All the actors play their roles extremely well. I am particularly impressed by Eileen Atkins and Bernard Hepton. Even though, I assume due to time constraints, certain scenes from the book have been abbreviated, the general feel of the book - the increasing pressure and passion as we creep to the conclusion - is heart stopping.

I believe this is one of the great classic films of the 20th century.

The Miracle Worker (1962)

An unbelievable story that is the basis for one of the great films of all time.

[10/10 · 27 July 2006]

As a former occupational therapist who for a period of time worked with severely disabled children, I can appreciate not only the amazing accomplishments of Annie Sullivan and Helen Keller, but the fantastic recreation of their story on the screen by Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke. This heart-rending, gut-wrenching story of Annie Sullivan's struggle to reach within the mind of a child of darkness and total silence, to actually connect with Helen Keller's brilliant mind is toweringly glorious. I am now a 77 year-old woman who has loved films all my life, and I have introduced my children and grandchildren and young friends to this beautiful film time and time again!

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005)

Excellent film of a great book!

[9/10 · 30 April 2005]

I am a 76 yr.old fan of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy BOOK, and (to my surprise) I was thoroughly pleased with the FILM. My sons (aged 49 and 51) and my 2 granddaughters (aged 15 & 21, who had never read the book) all had a grand, laugh-filled time. The use of bright colors in the visuals were spectacular, and the actors (including Alan Rickman) were perfect. The actor who played the confused and timid Arthur Dent was super-perfect, bathrobe, towel and all. (Forgot his name - sorry!) Starting the film with the Louis Armstrong song "It's a Wonderful World" was brilliant! All the other music was just absolutely right on the nose. I intend to rush out and buy the soundtrack ASAP. Any fan of the book should NOT miss this film. I look forward to the next film, The Restaurant at the End of the Universe, which I'm certain will be produced. P.S. Sit though the credits for awhile, and you'll see a tiny bit more of the film!