Templar-5 Reviews

Kikujiro (1999)

The best film of 2000.

[10/10 · 7 May 2001]

Well, I didn't see it until November, 2000. Otherwise, I'd say it was the best film of 1999 except for Star Wars Episode 1. If you liked 'Smoke', 'Midnight Run' or 'Gods and Monsters', you'll love this, I can assure you - so long as English subtitles don't bother you. I watched Hana-Bi on video a while back and couldn't get into it, but this film is magical. The relationship between the kid in search of his mother and the hapless man joining him is simply superb. Takeshi Kitano's title character is one of the most intriguing I've ever seen on screen.

There's something to be said for films like 'Midnight Run' and 'Gods and Monsters'. These films deal with two people of different polarities who come into contact to further each other's (spiritual) evolution. Well, that's the way I see it, anyway. And 'Kikujiro' is yet another example of this.

Immensely funny, faultlessly performed, carefully directed and with a memorable soundtrack, 'Kikujiro' is a joy to behold. Be patient when you watch it, though. I've only seen it once...and it wasn't until about five months later when I bought the soundtrack that I realised just how much I liked the film.

Bulworth (1998)

Great fun.

[10/10 · 7 March 1999]

This is a must see for anyone who is disillusioned with the American political system. Seeing Beatty up on the screen rhyming truths against a rap beat is worth admission (or rental) price alone.

A great script aided by worthy performances and a pumping soundtrack make Bulworth great fun.

I was disappointed with the advertising campaign, especially here in Australia where it is doing bad business, as it did in the States. I thought the trailer made the film look like a 'Wag the Dog' or 'Primary Colors' political satire, which it is, but is also much more.

If you haven't already, go see this film.

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)

Kirk, Spock and Bones will live forever

[8/10 · 20 November 1998]

This is and will forever be the greatest Star Trek film ever made. Why? Because William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy and DeForest Kelley will have nothing to do with any more of the Star Trek films. And frankly, THEY ARE STAR TREK. This was the film that best presented Star Trek to the world. It has a great story, fun performances and memorable moments, and wraps up the 'Genesis' trilogy with flying colours. Even if you're not a Trekkie, see this film!

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)

A graceful Trek experience.

[8/10 · 20 November 1998]

What I like about this film is that it is quiet, slow - not 'The Motion Picture' slow, mind you - this film has a nice pace and interesting tale. This is the ultimate hero's journey. The shot where Kirk stands up after defeating Kruge, and looks out over the dying planet of Genisis is up there with my most favourite film moments of all time. This film cemented Kirk as a hero. It gave him character. He went back for Spock, and so did his crew. Now, would Picard do that for Data?

Despite its flaws, this stands as one of the best Star Trek films, sensibly directed by Nimoy, with great moments for each of the characters we've come to love. Strongly recommended.

Superman (1978)

Forget it, Nic.

[8/10 · 20 November 1998]

My third favourite film of all time behind 'Star Wars' and 'Raiders of the Lost Ark'. Christopher Reeve brings across an unforgettable portrayal of Superman, as well as Clark Kent. Donner had the vision and Williams the music, to put together the best comic book adaptation film of all time. Ignore the sideburns and the long winded opening scenes - this is an epic adventure that you will enjoy - along with its companion piece, 'Superman II'.

Smoke (1995)

One of the ten best films I have ever seen.

[10/10 · 14 November 1998]

Never before have I seen such everyday people brought to the screen in such a believable and moving way. Wang has translated Auster's story brilliantly, playing the silent observer among some great scenes where Kietel, Hurt and Perrineau shine with the dialog they are given.

This movie is slow, but it is an excellent account of how people relate to each other and behave under strained times. Hurt's character is beautifully constructed, surrounded by others who each have their own interesting story.

Its companion piece, 'Blue in the Face' is funny, but strays in a different direction. I would like to see more of these types of movies made; they explore so much, so expertly, with so little.

I'm a guy whose favourite films are 'Star Wars', 'Superman' and 'Raiders of the Lost Ark'. But this film is such a surprise and a stand out in today's mundane slew of films that for me, I couldn't ignore it. I can't recommend this film more strongly.

Seven Years in Tibet (1997)

A Dramatic Triumph.

[9/10 · 12 November 1998]

Pitt gives us a moving portrayal of Heinrich Harrer, a man torn between two worlds - that of his commitment to his wife in Austria (under the flag of the Nazi's) and his passion for mountain climbing. Annaud successfully covers Heinrich's hard journey through the Himilayas until he finally arrives in Tibet. From there, Heinrich comes to terms with his pompous ego - his materialistic ideals - next to the backdrop of a sacred country on the eve of an invasion from the Chinese communist forces.

A little dramatically incoherent in the preliminary scenes, the film suggests it could have gone for longer (hopefully a Director's Cut may be available). The Tibetan culture itself could also have been examined more closely.

Nevertheless, the film is a dramatic triumph from its stunning photography to its inspiring score by the master John Williams, with stirring cello solos from Yo-Yo Ma.

Amistad (1997)

Don't believe the hype - see this film.

[9/10 · 10 November 1998]

A lovely film that, despite its near contrived presentation of events, triumphs due to excellent performances and the touching, underlying theme of freedom. John Williams' moving score is unforgettable.