zero_kelly Reviews

Gangs of New York (2002)

Major Disappointment

[7 February 2004]

I don't think I can remember a movie where all the components are in place to create an epic motion picture, and they all fall apart like a jigsaw puzzle with incorrect pieces jumbled together into a mess.

Throughout every scene tension is created leading to more tension. Characters are defined well and the acting is superb throughout ... but because of the history of the period, I knew the outcome from the first frame and it really didn't matter to me who died at the end and who didn't. And that's the problem with the entire production, I really don't care about any of these characters. Plus, the historic and political issues, which are driving influences of the era, didn't develop the desired drama/intensity to close the hoped for effect the director had in mind.

Sure, the love interest is developed, but I don't care if they stay together or not. I admire history and maintaining contact with a city's or community's past; however, because New York is a city that never slows down enough to truly admire and honor its past and the citizens who inhabited those times, I wasn't taken in by the final frames detailing the growth of the city and loss of individual histories.

Overall, the production quality is remarkable and true to life. The acting, as I mentioned earlier, is outstanding. But unless viewers care about the characters on screen, there isn't much to capture their attention for a full three hours.

Overall, I give it a 5 out of 10.

The Proprietor (1996)

A bold vision for a film

[22 June 2000]

I had seen previews for this film for several years before I could find it in the local Blockbuster and waiting was worth it. The story is tender, without being overdone. All of the characters are connected in meaningful ways, although I have to say casting Sam Waterson as an art auctioner may appear to be an odd role for him, he handled it well.Jeanne Moreau was delightful in the lead. The triumph of the film is her ability to move in and out of the visions with her mother and her lover. While some viewers may have found this far-fetched, just remember that grief creates many levels of reality. The friendship that developed with Josh Hamilton's character (William O'Hara) is great. Despite the fact Moreau finds him a total bore when they first meet, and they then become friends becomes the universal message of this story. Throw in the reconcilation of a marriage gone bad, and the young couple overcoming their cultural differences, and the story comes full circle. The scenes of racial problems in Frances brought the issue to light. Few Americans see this side of France. I give the movie an eight.