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Reviews
Sideways (2004)
This was one of the worst films of the year
This film was awful! The characters in the film have NO redeeming qualities whatsoever and they are truly horrible to themselves and each other. No amount of wine tasting or wine snobbery can resurrect this picture. If you decide to take in this film, take a pillow. You won't even need sleeping pills, you'll just doze off. If road trips were like this film, there would be more car wrecks. Why the actors didn't ask for their names to be omitted from the credits is beyond me. Again, there are no redeeming qualities to this film - perhaps it was done to receive tax credits somewhere. This film makes me believe in the corruption of the voting process for the Golden Globes.
Hope Springs (2003)
Colin Firth looks embarrassed to be seen in this film
An actor the quality of Colin Firth should be embarrassed to be associated with this poorly directed and badly scripted film. In fact, he looks embarrassed to be on screen, barely muddling his way from scene to scene. Mary Steenburgen, a very talented actor who is currently playing the wonderful part of the mother in Joan of Arcadia, should be ashamed of her performance, and from what I saw of Minnie Driver (as I couldn't stomach watching the whole movie) this was her worst performance ever. What were they all thinking?! The plot certainly makes no sense, and the characters in the town are despicable - witness the mayor and the couple at the hardware store. Don't bother with this movie.
Maid in Manhattan (2002)
A classic Harlequin romance
This film is as formulaic as a Harlequin romance. Having said that, if you like the predictability of romance novels, this film might appeal. At least you won't have to think about the plot. Jennifer Lopez is appealing, but Ralph Fiennes has very little romantic sizzle. When they kiss, it's like watching a brother and sister - no spark.
Gosford Park (2001)
A good movie, but not Oscar material
Gosford Park was amusing, but forgettable. I suspect it garnered an Oscar nomination as a nod to Robert Altman's long history. That said, I recommend it as an extended episode of Masterpiece Theatre. I do like Maggie Smith's performance as the poor relation.
Pride and Prejudice (1995)
I think Jane herself would be proud of this effort.
This is the best adaptation of Pride and Prejudice ever produced. I can't think that it would get any better! The characters ring true to the book, and this series has inspired a renaissance of passion in Austen's work. The spark between the on-screen Miss Eliza Bennett and Mr. Darcy is wonderfully well-played (and, as we know now, inspired Bridget Jones's Diary). I heartily recommend it!
Save the Last Dance (2001)
Awful acting, lame plot
This movie is one of the worst I've seen. It has no redeeming value, as the actors never click, and the plot is one cliche after another. Don't waste your money on this one. I was sorry I took my daughters to see this. My nine-year old was bored throughout, and my ten-year old was unfortunately enthralled. And Julia Stiles couldn't even dance!
Autumn in New York (2000)
No chemistry in this movie - avoid at all costs
Some reviewers pegged this as a three-hanky film. I agree - but only for the crying that comes after you realize you've wasted your time and money. I was incredibly disappointed that there was no chemistry between Richard Gere and Winona Ryder. Further, the plot was exceptionally insipid. I get the sense the movie was made just to fill contractual obligations. I hope never to see these two otherwise fine actors in such a piece of schlock again. Avoid this movie at all costs and rent Little Women and Pretty Women instead.
Chicken Run (2000)
I've never laughed so hard in a movie!
I went to see Chicken run with my kids, who also love Wallace and Gromit, and we all enjoyed it. There are enough puns, jokes and sight gags at all levels to appeal to everyone. I especially liked the "Indiana Jones" scene.