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Midnightcat
Reviews
Erin Brockovich (2000)
Julia Roberts in a real role, finally!
I went into this movie not having a clue what it was about. All I knew was that Julia Roberts was in it. I came out with a whole new appreciation for her as an actress. She brings a depth and conviction to her portrayal of Erin that made me think that maybe there was still a serious actress there after all. It's been so long since we've seen Roberts in a role that was more than just fluff. This role signals a return to more serious fare. And not only did Roberts bring the role to life, she did it clad in the most hideous of 80's fashions. This movie isn't just about cleavage -- the clothing is representative of the time period. If you ignore it and concentrate on the story and the acting, you'll be pleasantly surprised, and find yourself watching a well-written, well-directed, well-acted movie that will draw you in and make you want to jump right in and help Erin in her fight against Big Business.
The Beach (2000)
DiCaprio isn't just another pretty face.
I enjoyed Leonardo DiCaprio in What's Eating Gilbert Grape, and then lost faith in him after Titanic. I was sick of the whole teen heartthrob/posse-towing bad boy image. But The Beach put Leonardo back in my good books. If you enjoyed Trainspotting, chances are you'll like The Beach, from the same power team that gave us the Scottish heroin romp. This time it's an isolated island paradise instead of Scotland, pot instead of heroin, and Leonardo DiCaprio instead of Ewan MacGregor. The Beach is a visually stunning movie with a soundtrack that blended seamlessly with the beautiful visuals. The acting was incredible, with not one single disappointing performance. The movie was both funny (the video game sequence) and scary (the shark attack), just as much of a nightmare as it was a beautiful dream. With any luck we will start seeing Leonardo DiCaprio in more roles that portray him as more than just your average pretty boy, because it's once again obvious that he's a fantastic actor.
Scream 3 (2000)
Excitement takes a vacation in this non-thriller.
I was so disappointed in this movie. Scream was hilarious, Scream 2 was pretty good, but Scream 3 just didn't measure up. The regulars were fantastic - David Arquette, Courteney Cox, Neve Campbell, and a special video appearance by Jamie Kennedy were all great. But the rest of the movie just couldn't support them. The writing seemed weak and contrived, and the movie seemed more like a vehicle for cramming in famous people who wanted a cameo than the funny/scary as hell franchise we're all used to. There were few screams, fewer laughs, and I went away wanting a better ending.
Outside Providence (1999)
A thoughtfully funny movie.
I only went to see this movie because of the Farrelly Brothers' involvement (I loved There's Something About Mary). I'm so glad I did! This movie is truly, honestly funny, and not only in a juvenile way. Of course, being written by who it was, it does have its share of pot jokes and 4-letter-word induced chuckles. Alec Baldwin gives a wonderful performance as a crusty dad, and Shawn Hatosy proves that he isn't just another average teeny bopper movie actor. This movie is a must see for anyone who enjoyed such movies as The Breakfast Club or Fast Times at Ridgemont High, but its appeal won't be lost on those who prefer deeper movies (dare I even say "heartwarming"?). Go see this movie -- you will laugh, you might cry, and you will certainly enjoy it.