googlemorf Reviews

Beware! The Blob (1972)

sick, creepy, comedy-horror!

[26 November 2003]

If I had not seen BEWARE!THE BLOB as an impressionable youth, maybe I could look at it as a cheezy, poorly acted, uneven special effects, campy movie. But there is something sinister going on in this flick, and untill I read a mini revue in CULT MAGAZINE I thought maybe I was just being sensitive. A follow-up to the famous original about a man eating jello from outer space, most critics said something to the effect that BEWARE! THE BLOB doesn't know if it wants to be a horror movie or a comedy, so it fails at both, but I don't agree with that sum-up. I think Larry Hagman (and, or the writers)did something unlike anything done before. In a Horror-comedy, the humor is there to relieve the horror. HERE they got it backwards! We see characters doing goofy sit-com type things, and then they get eaten by the blob! I find the mix of styles very disturbing. This movie gave me nightmares as a kid, and I still can't shake it off! I think Hagman also had a lot of contempt at the time he made this flick. The characters are usually stupid and brain dead to their surroundings, making them easy prey (they are all self-absorbed before being blob-absorbed!). I find the bowling ally attack to be very effective despite the uneven special effects. I know some of you may think I'm taking this silly movie way to seriously and, okay, maybe I am.. But now when you go to a bowling ally, or to the barbers, or sit back in your easy chair just like Godfry Cambridge did, you may just think twice.. BEWARE!

Penelope (1966)

I almost thought I just dreamed this..

[4 November 2003]

When I was six years old this was on TV. I saw the beginning and was sent to bed. I just remember the great theme song with the cartoon credits ( I love cartoon credits.. EVERY movie should have cartoon credits.. do you realize how much better BLAIR WITCH PROJECT would be with cartoon credits?), the robbery and Jonathan Winters chasing Natalie Wood around. I remember thinking, "Why is he doing that?" After all these years I am finally watching it again. It is kinda surreal.. Like a spoof of wacky sixties farces. Wood plays a kleptomaniac. I await the remake with Wynona Ryder.

Frankenstein: The True Story (1973 TV Movie)

Mind (and gender!) bending version of Frankenstein

[27 March 2003]

There is so much in this version, it is hard to know where to begin. The made-for-television look of it is deciving: this is a very radical and unconventional movie. Let's start with the title: FRANKENSTEIN THE TRUE STORY would imply that it is the most faithfull version of Mary Shellys book. Since it isn't, I see the title like a National Inquirer expose. EXTRA! Frankenstein didn't do it all alone! The monster was really beautiful... at first! I'm sure everyones noticed this, but no one has mentioned the strong homosexual subtext. For one, the envy Clarvel feels towards Elizabeth, finding her a thret to the bond he and Victor have. But even more so, the down right erotic birth of the creature and when Victors eyes meet with his! Micheal Sarazin is fetchingly wraped in guaze, looking quite like Rocky in THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW! When the creature starts to lose his looks, Victor is ashamed and trys to ditch the creature so he can marry and have a "normal" life. But his Adam keeps returning to remind him that Victor belongs to him. Everytime they are reunited, the creature greets him with his name "Victor!" with an intense longing betraying sexual desire. In this version, Victor is a loser on all accounts. The creation of life is really mostly the work of Clarvel who stole most of his ideas from Polidori. Frankenstien is a third party who puts a brain in and pulls the switch. The creation destroys his life and he can't even take credit for it! Then the creation of Prima, who becomes a symbolic double for Elizabeth, imatating her much in the way the creature imatated Victor. I could go on forever, but it's late and I gotta get some sleep. Only a full essay (and an unedited DVD version) can do this film justice!

The Wrecking Crew (1968)

A street of many pleasures (ahh-soo)

[31 January 2003]

This was my favorate movie when I was twelve. Saw it again recently on the big screen. This movie is outta control. I can see why Dino would refuse to make another Matt Helm; the Bruce Lee choriographed fights probibly made him want to puke his scotch (or whatever he obviously was drinking). Besides the great 60's set design and fab music, Sharon Tate is the best thing in this. Not for all tastes to be sure, though I personally love this kinda camp.

Basic Instinct (1992)

I think Verhoeven doesn't like us.

[19 January 2003]

I think Verhoeven, a talented German film director, was venting his contempt for American audiences when he helmed the film Basic Instinct. He thought, "I will make a main stream erotic thriller that will be thinly disguised soft porn with terrible dialogue and plot twists that won't be really effective because the characters are so hateful but it won't matter 'cause saying it's a thriller is really an excuse for the average Joe to check this film out for the soft porn while saying, "Hey! I'm not a pervert that watches soft porn! I'm just watching an "erotic thriller"! (Pant, pant pant!!)""

Friday (1995)

All this and a meesage too

[13 September 2002]

What makes FRIDAY so good for me is not only is it very funny, but it is also a very RESPONSABLE comedy, and it makes serious points about neighborhood violence. The climax of the film is GREAT filmmaking, where Ice Cube has a clear moral choice and we actually see both options. As for the pot smoking in the flick, it is simply presented with no moral judgement and (okay, with the exception of seeing the head in the fridge: that's more like LSD) very true to life. Some have complained about how this section is a little slow, with the two just sitting in front of the house stoned, but I like this part because it truly communicates the experience of getting baked.

That Thing You Do! (1996)

That thing I wish you DIDN'T do!

[2 July 2002]

All they did here was throw in a bunch of cliches about one hit wonders in the '60s. This film says nothing about the era it tries to emulate. The title song is okay, but by the fifth time I heard it I wanted to scream! Also note, racism alert: the two stereotyped black men (the musician and the bell hop) who are full of wisdom yet know their place. I don't think Tom Hanks is a racist, I just think he was too caught up in the word that he created to notice.

Undercover Blues (1993)

Cute idea RUINED

[2 July 2002]

I like Dennis Quaid, LOVE Kathleen Turner, and I'm a sucker for spy spoofs.. This almost works as a fun, leave your brain behind kinda movie, but what ruins it for me is the "Muerte" character who is one of the most obnoxious Latino stereotypes in the history of the movies. Don't agree? Think about it.. if "Muerte" was black it wouldn't have gotten the green light!

Crucible of Terror (1971)

Late Night TV Madness

[27 June 2002]

I saw this thing in part on late night TV in the seventies. Being a mere lad at the time, I was taken a back at how gory the killings were and surprized in retrospect that it wasn't cut for TV. I found this flick recently in a $5.00 bin put out by STAR CLASSICS. I wanted to see what I'd think of it now, so I bought it. Now I wasn't surprised that at that price it was a cheezy 16mm VHS copy in the LP mode, but I was surprised that all the gory scenes were cut out! Apparently, it was transfered from a more prudish television print! I see here that it's on DVD, but I ain't gonna buy the darn thing.. I would rent it though, just to see if it still holds the same impact it did for me so long ago..

Liquid Sky (1982)

Respect it and Hate it!

[8 June 2002]

One of the few movies I've seen to cause a real mixed reaction of this sort in me. On one hand I respect the audacity of the film and its incredible world view.. on the other hand, I can't STAND its world view: everyone hates each other and are in it for themselves. I just find this philosiphy so overwhelming in the film that I want to slit my wrists after watching it!

The American Astronaut (2001)

THIS is what I'm talkin' about!

[25 May 2002]

A true original. I loved this film and the wild wonderful universe that McAbee was able to create on what must have been a $1.80 budget. It has a hypnotic quality, off beat characters, and even a touching father /son relationship.. what more could you want? There is a rousing scene at the beginning when the astronaut walks from his ship to the space bar. His walk goes for some time while a wonderful instrumental plays. If you don't enjoy this part for its simplicity, you probably won't like the rest of the flick. While it dosn't look like this film will get a major distributer ( I got to see it at the Washington DC Film fest with McAbee there to discuss it!) the soundtrack album is available at americanastronaut.com. I'm listening to it as I write this! This is the fist movie in a long time that I have seen that I didn't want it to end.. McAbee knows the first rule of showbusiness: Always leave them wanting more!

Mystery and Imagination: Frankenstein (1968) Season 4, Episode 2

Unique!

[14 April 2002]

Saw this once around 1971 on local TV. Very faithful version except that Ian Holm payed both monster and creator (he makes the creature in his own image and makes a botched job of it). Filmed in dreary black and white, it is the one version I've seen that captures the despair in the novel (if nothing else). Of note: Holm played the father in the newest version.

Satiemania (1978)

A Great Animation short

[17 March 2002]

I saw this in 1981 as part of the turnee of Animation (I think it was the 15th turnee) at the Biograph in Washington DC (witch is now a CVS). It is one of the most beautiful film shorts I've ever seen. It turned me on to Eric Satie's music.. I'd love to have this on DVD. The animator used images from the history of art as well as wild violent slapstick

Skidoo (1968)

Skidoo, Skidoo, and world will be a better place for you

[12 January 2002]

Finally saw this thing in Washington DC at a special showing. What a mind blower! Director Preminger and company really took risks here; a counterculter comedy with an all star middle aged to senior citizen cast! The story has gangster Jackie Gleason being hired by Groucho Marx to kill Mickey Rooney in prison where Gleason takes LSD and his wife Carol Channing does a strip tease and sings the theme song.. it's enough to make your head spin! It must be said that this film made motion picture history: It's the only movie ever made where the end credits are actually SUNG, by the films composer Nilsson! Can't wait for this to be on DVD!

Alice's Restaurant (1969)

More than just a hippie flick.

[10 January 2002]

After seeing all the negative criticism, I just had to say a few words in the films defence. ALICE'S RESTAURANT is unconventionally produced, but it DEFINITELY has themes running through out it.. It deals with some profound issues about the era, particularly the concept of the pursuit of happieness. Note the significant change in tone in the last section: The marriage ceremony and party at the end brilliantly convey the idea of the characters trying to "be free" and have a good time, but that if there is aimlessness in your life, there will be a sadness there and you won't know were it is comming from. True, it also helps if you like folk music (witch I do). I found the scenes of Arlo by his father Woody's bed side quite touching, especially when he is performing with Pete Seagar. And of course, seeing the ALICE'S RESTUARANT MASSECREE acted out is delightful.

Hannibal (2001)

Incredible, but Haunting

[31 August 2001]

Finally got to see this on DVD to see what all the fuss was about.. Scott's direction takes a slow, haunting approach witch those of us with a stop to smell the roses mentality appreciate.. problem is that much suspension of disbelief is required her, and when you slow things down the audience will get ahead of you. As a result, I found the film had little suspense. I was also given too much time to contemplate over as to why no one could nab Hannibal.. He walks around in public doing whatever he pleases and apparently has a frequent flyer pass.

Still, I did like the film.. Scenes and images stayed with me long after. The performances are excellent all around, and of course Hopkins is one of those actors who can really hold an audience in his grip. The famous climax is what nightmares are made of.

The Troublemaker (1964)

Odd-ball rare find!

[29 August 2001]

A friend of mine recorded this from cable. Buck Henry is in it as well as wrote it.. His character has shades of Maxwell Smart whom he and Mel Brooks would create soon after. Strange satirical comedy with a surreal edge and over the top characters. I'd love to see it again!

Daniella by Night (1961)

early 60's french wackyness

[26 July 2001]

This one has a great jazz score, a peek-a-boo nude scene of star Elke Summer, spys and double crosses, action and killing, and yet it's all kinda slow. I found it a little confusing and my attention wandered, though I did like the look of early 60's France, with the clothes and the hairstyles. The print on the DVD could have been better: Lots of scratches. I wouldn't be surprised if it was transfered from a 16mm print. The trailer included is more entertaining.

Candy (1968)

..and the cast still has acid flashbacks.

[11 March 2001]

I had the good fortune of finally seeing this rarely see curiosity of a movie recently at a special showing in Washington DC and the set designer was there to introduce it! And YES, he did confirm that EVERY ONE ON THIS MOVIE WAS ON SOMETHING WHILE MAKING IT! I admit: I like the film.. I admire films that try to do something different even if it falls on its face. Most scenes seem to go on forever ("the director wouldn't shorten any of it in the editing!" said the designer) but it is incredible watching Walter Matthau, Marlon Brando, James Coburn and Ringo Starr (as a mexican.. one of the worst performances I have ever see buy anyone.. in his words: "Ess no good!") Richard Burton ( hilarious as a Dylan Thomas parody) chasing, er, I forgot her name, as CANDY.. Terry Sotherns immortal sexpot creation. I found the end, were she sees all the characters from through out the movie kinda touching, even if it was a little Fellini like.

The Face Behind the Mask (1941)

Hard to find crime drama

[18 January 2001]

Saw this at a special showing. Great performance from Peter Lorrie as a sweet immigrant who turns to a life of crime after his face is disfigured in a fire. Director Robert Flory uses a variety of wild film techniques to tell this colorful story. A shame it is not available on video.

Human Highway (1982)

Weirdness that almost touches Greatness

[9 January 2001]

HUMAN HIGHWAY is not for everybody and some parts don't work. Still, I love the flick. I think if in the writing they fleshed out the wonderful bizarre characters a little more, this thing could have been a masterpiece. As it stands, it has a wild surreal bent, with Neil Young and company not being afraid to fall on their collective face.

When the cast does the final WORRIED MAN number, it is rousing and strangely moving.. Everyones HUMANITY (as in HUMAN HIGHWAY) shines through. It is as if the company is both themselves and the characters they play.

Swimming with Sharks (1994)

Drowning in Pessimism

[20 September 2000]

This movie about the dark side of the movie business is worth seeing for Spacey's clever performance alone.. Period. I am tired of films that are considered profound merely because they present human nature at its worst. For a movie about movies, this film is very uncinematic, relying on its clever dialogue to make its points. As for the "surprise" ending, presented without irony, I can only conclude that the screen writer is a misogynist.

Far and Away (1992)

Get me Far and Away from this movie!

[17 September 2000]

Don't get me wrong.. I like most movies Ron Howard has directed. I am also not a Tom Cruise hater and I think EYES WIDE SHUT is a great movie and he and Kidman are marvelous in it.

But FAR AND AWAY is the kind of movie that brings out the film snob in me. I know this is a personal reaction, but I really hate this film. I find it guilty of committing the worst possible sin: it's mediocre.

Not just mediocre, though.. Mediocre on a grand scale! Big 70mm, 50 foot wide screen mediocre!

This is the kid of film where the two leads have been starving on the streets for weeks and they have strategically placed theatrical smudges on their faces.. and Tom is still clean shaven.

I know.. It's a sweeping romantic tale and one should simply surrender to its artifice.. Well, I can't.

I keep seeing the strings of manipulation being pulled.

Lady in a Cage (1964)

A Twisted Experience

[16 September 2000]

I saw this darn thing on TV as a kid. I kept turning the set on and off.. It would get too intense, but I wanted to see what was going to happen.

Seeing again as an adult I still think it's effective, even though I find it more pretentious now, with the philosophy 101 narration. Ultimately, it is really a mean spirited film done with just enough competence to give it a kick. I don't think I will ever watch it again.

A side note: I saw this on commercial TV. When they went to an ad after a nasty scene, the television narrator intoned (with gusto) "We'll be back with more!"

The Birth of a Nation (1915)

Racism part of sad heritage

[3 August 2000]

Beauty and splendor grace the first part of this film, from the powerful reconstruction of the civil war to Lincoln's assassination. I love how Griffith lingers on his images, many of them are like well composed paintings. Even taking time on Lillian Gish's face.

Then the film moves into a section rather uncomfortable to watch: Reconstruction not how it was, but as a white supremacist would want us to think: Blacks taking over the South and being rather impolite about it.

BIRTH OF A NATION is an important historic work because the disease of racism isn't North or South: it is America. Everyone should see this film, understand the context of when it was made, learn its contribution to film as an art form, but also see it as a hateful piece of propaganda.

Hiding this film in the cellar with your crazy uncle is not the solution.. Those who forget history are condemned to repeat it.