Wow, a film all about me. The guy does nothing, uses a Pavoni Espresso machine, Apple computer, even his name is 'Will'; I just don't have the hair or the Audi. Best line: if people can make you happy; then, they can make you unhappy. Loved this film!
Ken Loach directs the masterpiece 'love conquers all' film about a Catholic Irish lass and a Muslim Pakistani Scot and the archaic and divisive influences from interested parties on both sides.
Sigourney Weaver decides to take acting seriously, again.
Absorbing and perfectly re-enacted World War I piece about a young girl's search for her lover whom all believe to be dead. Brings together director Jean-Pierre Jeunet and his star, Audrey Tautou, the team who made Amelie a huge international success.
Back to TopA well crafted film right down to the awakening of a cat. The message is simply what goes around comes around - spelled out in a very poignant way.
Two films set 9 years apart in actuality and in screen play. I have never witnessed such quality work in the genre of romantic love, nor have I ever witnessed such chemistry between two actors: Ethan Hawke and the multi-talented (wrote and sang the songs) Julie Delpy.
Such a snappy, sophisticated, jazzy, artistic cartoon. The francopheel of it was so European and the way the characters were drawn and animated was so sympathetic. The dog was extraordinary; every movement it made I was more convinced the artist knew dogs inside and out; was maybe a dog in another life. I must buy the DVD to own as a work of art.
Steady laughs, guaranteed!
This was the first blatantly homosexual romantic film I've ever seen; meaning it wasn't Oliver Reed wrestling naked in 'Women in Love'. I was grateful for the absence of gratuitous sex which would have detracted from the story that was simply about two lovers who, because of a 'situation', could not fulfill their desires. By marrying and having children, they entered the realm of all heterosexuals who have illicit affairs but are restrained by their parental and spousal obligations; whereas previously it was all about being inhibited by strict cowboy and societal demands of the 1960's . I was also grateful NOT to have to listen to Willie Nelson sing about cowboys fondling one another at the end. This was a beautiful, plausible, well acted, period piece, rich in the essence of the only part of the United States where men, whether they are homosexual or heterosexual, don't act like sissy boys talking about social security, AIDs funding, and abortion - loved the scene where Ennis kicks the asses of two Hells Angel types just for being foul mouthed in front of his kids. I mean, honesty, where would that happen in 'cream puffs at ten paces' San Francisco?
Back to TopSamuel L. Jackson (best performance since Pulp) & Ben Affleck do a credible job demonstrating how two ethical guys can manage to get it all wrong; but, that the ethics will out in the end.
Sexy, fast paced, raunchy, and as American as all get out. Dispels those comments about America having no culture - this musical just bleeds Americana. Anyone who says American culture is an oxymoron cant see the forest for the trees. Thought I'd write something else? LOL
Deeply disturbing portrayal of betrayal; and there are many forms of betrayal as we often betray ourselves. One could all too easily walk away from this film without having a good discussion over coffee. Like the common cold, relationship difficulties continue to plague us and this intelligent film brings up issues many are too inhibited to discuss - unfortunately!
I love anything Tim Burton makes, even Stain Boy. Saw this at the Cork Film Festival and I'm certain it will make the Academy Awards - should take an Oscar for Best Animated Film.
The United States of America is too typically summed up by non Americans with a dismissive, derogatory few words. In fact, as this superb film portrays, the country is so multi cultural and wide open accounting for its consistent, plentiful, and innovative contributions to the world. There is a price to pay, i.e. the cost of cultural and racial misunderstandings and generalizations, stress in being the most productive economy in the world, and hair trigger tempers. The various faces of Americans and their interactions with one another are wonderfully intertwined in a work which has great social as well as artistic value. The most obvious lesson in this film is that racism definitely does not reside solely in the realm of whites. It's good to see Hollywood leave the political arena for something it understands.
Back to TopHorror films just don't scare me anymore; and a film about zombies? Please, no thanks! But, thanks to my trust in my local video rental guy, I took this film home and got really scared. What better review can one give a film of this genre?
Visually beautiful Spanish film with subtitles; but, worth it for the experience. A ghost story with the intent to tell a tale rather than scare the tail off you.
Back to TopFirst off, Julianne Moore never looked so fetching and her performance was outstanding. Denis Quaid was excellent, as well, in this film about middle class America in the late 50's. It so reminded me of the setting of my childhood. Even Moore & Quaid looked very much like my parents. Immediately, I began to reminisce about the wonderful, good old days when mom and dad and their peers spoke to one another with such civility - never used vulgar expletives. That impression soon dissolved when the movie revealed the other side of the 50's I evidently had blocked out. This was also the time of closet homosexuality which caused men to marry women who then had to endure unfulfilling partnerships. It was a time of racism and pseudo integration making mixed couples unfeasible. I dare anyone not to cry along with Julianne Moore at the end when she succumbs to her zeitgeist.
Visually sumptuous biopic on the life of Diego Rivera's talented wife. The character development is so well done, I began to have feelings for this remarkable woman. As an artist, I would collect this on DVD to place next to 'Pollock' on my shelf.
This is probably one of the best films about football you will ever see and it's based on the true story of the Texas State Football Championships. A thrilling and inspiring story with a reminder to all the PC, thin skinned people, who don't want to offend anyone with things like the nativity scene at Christmas, that not everyone agrees with them as the boys all lowered their heads in unison and said the Lord's Prayer before going onto the field again after half time.
Back to TopI didn't recognise Daniel Day-Lewis. He portrayed such a multifaceted complex character; whereas DiCaprio was soulless and couldn't create any chemistry with the charming and ebullient Cameron Diaz. The film was weird and I don't know about the verisimilitude; but I was impressed when Bill (Day-Lewis) took the lady's hand towards his mouth without actually making contact with his lips. Someone knew how a real gentleman behaves. Disgusting every time I see a man actually kiss a woman's hand or presume by extending his own before she does.
Refreshing & geeky coming of age for 2 young ladies
Back to TopIs she or isn't he? Far better than any Rocky Horror Show!
Nihilistic interpretation of life showing that intent doesn't always portend action. Excellent!
Back to TopJohn Cusack & Ray Liotta in a slick, smart, well photographed, psychological thriller.
This New Zealand film is simply a great story. It's a tragedy; so, save it for a grey old day when you are in the mood for this, as it's to be experienced; not necessarily enjoyed.
This Chinese film has a unique mood aided by the plucking of violins and the voice of Nat King Cole - in Spanish even. It's a stylish love story with a believable dénouement. The set design is rich and consistent. I don't know how much influence the director had over the photography; but, it was the most interesting I have ever witnessed. This director, like any great artist, has a particular style, one I admire tremendously.
This film's sequel - '2046', equally as good, doesn't necessarily have to be seen after the first.
Wow, not for the faint of heart. The rape scene does for rape what Private Ryan did for war; id est., they made both undeniably brutal & heinous. Normally when I know the ending of a film, which the trailers give away these days, I have no wish to see it. This film gives away the ending because the story is in reverse - the director demonstrates enormous temerity. Along with superb performances, innovative & brilliant cinematography and direction, this film is unique and stands alone as a true work of art in film making.
Scandinavian film of parochial charm. Great viewing for couples and holding hands.
One of the best films I've ever seen. I'm simply at a loss for words to describe what this film is. I learned from it. It had a profound affect on me. I wish more films like this were made.
Back to TopI have to list this film as it is undoubtably the best of its genre. Kept me thoroughly entertained; although I can be quite puerile which may explain it.
Technology and imagination has turned a classic 'B' film into a great 'Beauty and the Beast' love story. The digital imagery of the ape developed his character so well he became almost super human versus super ape and very sympathetic. I believe the digital wizard is the same who created 'Golum' in 'Lord of the Rings'. An absorbing film which takes you in heart and soul.
Back to TopA refreshing different slant on W.W.II, about French film making during the beginning stages of Nazi occupation in Paris. A touch of Catch 22 with a dash of George Grosz.
Don't let the name fool ya - this is another film from down under. Its about relationships, love, and trust. Superbly crafted, engrossing, and provocative. Everyone could learn from this gem.
Old lads film about how to say farewell to a long time friend. Good yarn. Reminded me of why I used to read books of stories instead of books on software.
This has to be the best of this genre. Hopefully technology will go in some other direction as I, for one, am becoming jaded. Star Wars? Never really got into it; but Lord of the Rings lords it over anything Star Wars ever did or could do. Please let this be the end of the 'quest fantasy' films.
Saw the premiere (18/12/02) and was impressed with the pace, artistry, and obvious dedication & love of the man whose books obsessed me while doing the Hippie Trail though Asia in the 70s. This is better than the first and takes about three effortless hours; but, must be seen in the cinema - absolutely!
Such a well crafted film, astoundingly by the same Coppola girl who almost ruined 'Godfather lll' by her amateur acting. She's no amateur director. Incredible talent & sensitivity. Next film will tell if she got any help the first time. Anyway, the story of this honest, unassuming, sagacious, middle aged, over the hill actor doing Japanese whiskey ads in Tokyo, who meets up with a potential soul mate almost a third his age made a point to me about how maybe we all have 'soul mates'; but we never meet them because they live in other countries or are distanced by age.
Back to TopThere was a time the Irish believed Boys will be boys; so they took care of the problem by punishing the girls. The last laundry for cleansing the sins of these innocent girls was closed in 1996.
Makes one glad to be part of the human race. You will enjoy the ride and take no offense at this surreal slice of life.
Bollywood takes on Hollywood and maybe an Oscar nomination.
Back to TopHard to figure out if it stands for Oden (protagonist), a basketball hoop, or Othello. No, this is another very good example of how Shakespeare's work applies to any time period - technology doesn't change human nature.
Back to TopBeen done before, but never so well. Acting, set design, costume, and cinematography, all will go to the Oscars in 2006. This period piece brought you into that period and kept you there momentarily even after leaving the theatre. Superb!
Strange, I knew a quarter of a century ago how the Australian government tried to genetically wipe out the aboriginal race. This film is based on fact and will leave you feeling ashamed for not trying harder in your lives. Will make you cry, too
Some critics didn't like this one. I liked it a lot. It was like "Sin City" without the comic book feel to it. Good, original, edgy, hard core thriller.
Back to TopSo inspirational - very American, depicting the Great Depression and its effect on the nation. Here is this runt of a horse, blind in one eye, who's been beaten, and trained to lose who teams up with a jockey with issues over being abandoned by his parents and getting his own ass kicked in many ways and happens to be too big for a jockey to boot; and together they experience a healing of their pasts and it turns them into stars. The trainer and owner have been broken and reborn too, all because of a unifying passion which takes the 4 of them on this wild ride. I never thought I would be so impressed with the look & sound of a race horse. I don't know who the actual horse was, but what a gorgeous animal when in full stride. Tears of joy at the final stretch - a vicarious thrill.
First off, I really like James Spader. He's a less creepy version of another favorite, Christopher Walken. This well structured film is about a light sadomasochistic relationship which develops into true love. I never thought I'd say this about S & M; but in this film it was portrayed as tasteful and even a little seductive. Shame the ending was sort off an indictment on marriage and commitment.
Film Noir landscape, with splashes of red and pinches of green, based on Frank Miller's comic strip. Mickey Rourke plays this unforgettable character named Marv. Benicio del Toro is also terrific - great cast! It's narrated in a Daymon Runyonesque style and even though it's tongue 'n cheek, there is a nasty little bite of tension to satisfy those who enjoyed this genre when they were kids. The digital imagery is so realistic one feels completely taken in to this macabre world. Sin City is slick and unique. Can't wait for the next one as I'm hooked!
The last days of Sophie Scholl, anti Hitler political activist and member of the White Rose. Quietly and powerfully acted and directed film which tugs at your emotions on several levels. This is a period piece perfectly reenacted; however, its theme is still meaningful today.
Not really too keen to say anything nice about the French; but, they did practically invent the film industry and this film is worth watching. It's so French, I could actually smell the body odour.
Back to TopWorld's greatest actor, Anthony Hopkins, portrays a man who lived life in the greatest possible way - "the reward is in the doing". Truly inspiring!
Sean Penn, probably one of the finest actors of all time as well as the dumbest political activist, pulls off another beauty. This is a fine film about the true story of Samuel Bicke, a very disturbed man, who in 1974 decided to hijack an airplane and force it to fly low into the White House just after a disgruntled soldier who had washed out of flight school had landed a helicopter on the White House lawn. Following this character though the process of madness is very disturbing. Not a film for a night's light diversion.
French Canadian masterpiece about the best scenario imaginable for what could have been an otherwise painful lonely death of a philanderer.
Imagination and superb performances make this a great film and a strangely believable love story.
I think Polanski's best film.The attention to detail brings the viewer right into the thick of things.This not just another Jew Nazi political statement like Schinder's List. It's a beautiful work of art. The protagonist is certainly not that sympathetic to carry the film. He is simply a part of the entire ensemble which, like a great work of art, merits another viewing.
This is a must see about a Mongolian family in the Gobi desert and its symbiotic relationship with the camel. Should life's hectic pace be getting to you, this film will earth you. It's charming and proves there is a spiritual side to life we can avail ourselves of to make miracles happen.
What an incredible story. I have had just a tiny idea of what this courageous Englishman went through. His fortitude is awesome; his story a reminder of what a magnificent God to have created us and all things around us. Life can be so amazing. I guess we have to test ourselves and put our precious lives on the line, occasionally, to taste all life has to offer; otherwise, we risk having the pretty package without the benefit of its contents.
Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, and Naomi Watts. She is now my favourite all time actress. My God she's talented; and so 'hot'. She can turn on the steam like no one I've ever seen. Back to the film; it was erie how plausible this dark film is. It was loaded with complex flash backs which never complicated a story which makes you realize how close you could be to disaster if you haven't already encountered it.
Crime drama based on true story of a California serial killer in the sixties and seventies authenticated by the best props from autos, clothes, and even kitchen items as well as that Starsky & Hutch blurry colour quality in the film itself. Great performances all around. The film had to be well crafted to fit in all the necessary information - not a wasted scene. Totally absorbing.
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