gypsycaine Reviews

Alice in Wonderland: An X-Rated Musical Fantasy (1976)

Quite an unusual film, but excellent! (spoilers)

[10/10 · 29 March 2004]

When I was engaged, my fiance and I would frequent the adult bookstores. He would look for his favorite mags, and on occasion a video that caught the eye. As much as I enjoyed the one-on-one with him that the media caused, there was never a video that I really enjoyed. I had seen only one other movie way back when there was a satellite channel called XXX (it dealt with a private eye unraveling a case) that actually had a proper plot and was enjoyable. All the others were grunting and puffing and blowing and whatnot. There's only so many times you can watch a blonde bimbo faking 'it'.

This movie caught my eye, and I migrated to it, allowing him to wander the shop. He noticed (how hard was it not too? grins. I was actually interested in something, lol(!) in the video section!) and came over, buying the slightly used copy for me. We took it home and I loved it. Here was a "Porno" with a plot. I wasn't sure it even classified as porno, but I use the word loosely.

The librarian was a character I could identify with. Alice rejected her boyfriend's advances. She was not comfortable with her own sexuality and prudish in her comments. Bill went away, and she continued to check in books. The White Rabbit ran through the library (one book, if you notice closely, I believe (it's been ten years since I saw the movie) was by Lewis C.) and Alice, for that same reason that propels teenagers to run into the woods when a chainsaw wielding maniac is behind them rather than towards populated areas, follows. It's the best way to get the plot forward. Alice finds herself in Wonderland.

I barely recall all the details, but I do remember clearly the swim in the lake, and how she was "dried" off. I liked how they got Humpty Dumpty Up again, the Mad Hatter's size of member being on his hat to wear it proudly, and the brother sister team of Dum and Dee (which did disturb me slightly--then again, they could have been husband wife, but I never could tell no matter how many times I watched it). The woman on the knight who told Alice go away and find your own Knight (What's a A Nice Girl Like You Doing on a Knight Like This?).

The part that really caught my attention when I watched it about a year or so later was one of the cards (3 of hearts, I think) who resembled my ex's current wife exactly! We couldn't help but tease her about being in the movie! The King of Hearts was interesting, and the Queen was even more so. Due to the openness of the forum, I can't go into details, just say it was "orgy" based and we'll leave it at that!

When we split up, I was allowed to take the video--he knew I liked it--but in the time since it's been lost in borrowing. Someday I'll find another copy.

Btw, if anyone could tell me offlist what scene was cut from the Amazon version, I'd really appreciate it.

I heartily recommend this movie for the over 18 crowd. It was soft, sweet, and really 70's, but I liked it immensely.

***** out of 5. D.

Frost: Portrait of a Vampire (2003 Video)

Ugh! (spoiler possibility)

[28 January 2004]

Ok, I admit to two things. First, I've never (until now) written a bad review for any movie.

Second, I'm a vampire freak.

Now, there are so many glaring things about this movie that I just can't get my brain back on straight again.

At first, we're told the time is ten years, or something. Then we discover it's 1989. Then a year goes by (with the long-hair issues there!).

My biggest issue (besides the Afghani vampire's death which I agree "sucked!") is WHY did Jack remove his shades at all? Strange, strange...That scene could be perhaps the best of the movie which is an even worse thought!

No movie is totally without redemption, but this sucker comes pretty close.

I do like Jack, though. I was always a fan of Don Johnson and George Michael. :)

The Music Man (2003 TV Movie)

Interesting remake

[27 January 2004]

I know that folks rave about Robert Preston. He's one of my favorite actors from the 1962 version to Victor/Victoria he has one of the most remarkable voices and talents (not sure if he's still alive, but one can hope!).

Matthew is a talented performer. He's been in many movies and on Broadway. The version of Hill that he presents us is NOT Preston's, but does that make it wrong? Each performer approaches the role they take and places their own stamp on it. I liked Matthew's version very much. Then again, I do admit that I fell in love with him in Wargames and it's carried through everything he's done!

I started watching Marion and kept thinking--is that Lily St.Regis?? Lo and behold with the help of IMDB I discovered I was right that it was! Two stars of Annie (1999) in one movie. She's not Shirley, no. However she is doing exactly what Matthew is--putting her own touch on the role rather than imitating Shirley's! That is not a crime.

There are a few miscasts that stood out, yes. I know from my studies of histories all the things that are wrong, but that doesn't mean I can't just enjoy a movie for a few hours. The music is the same that I pop in the VCR ('62) and clean the house to because it invigorates me (I do this with several musicals, fyi). It's interesting to see a different director's take on it.

Over all, a nice few hours. Not Oscar winning, but nice.

*** out of *****

Zorro: The Gay Blade (1981)

It's good summer laughs!

[9/10 · 11 August 2003]

George plays the ever-tan (does his tan EVER fade?) Diego to perfection in this movie. Antonio must have watched a bit of it, but George does the comic bit a bit more while Antonio played his Alejandro straighter. And boy do I mean straighter! Bunny is the funniest thing I have ever seen. I watched this back when it was on cable (Showtime, The Movie Channel--one of those types) and it hasn't aged at all! I love it! There's something about seeing George not only as gay, but in a dress at that that's deliriously funny!

If you have a night where you need cheered up, pull this movie off the rental rack or buy it outright. It's a fine addition to a comic-collection!

~9 out of 10~

The Worst Witch (1986 TV Movie)

I delight in this movie!

[9/10 · 10 July 2003]

First, I must admit two things. 1. I am a fan of Tim Curry. 2. I am a reader and I devour everything I get ahold of including the /Worst Witch/ book that this movie was based on. One of those books series of course is Harry Potter, and I think this movie comes off very well in comparison!

In 1986, the idea for this movie was "a wrap" and no one had even conceived (except JK) there was to be a huge following of a boy who attends a school for wizards. This movie is about a batch of girls who attend a witch school. The potions master in the currently internationally famous movie (Alan Rickman, pants!) is a mean, nasty man who dislikes the lead character. The first scene we have with Diana as Miss Hardbroom is a potions scene.

You might note other similarities, trust me. I especially chuckled watching the flight-teacher "surfing" on her broom. Nahhhh. Don't know where Chris Columbus got that idea do we? Smiles.

Despite all the above, I am seeking a copy of this movie for my son and myself. I think it's a cute movie. Just like the (coughsHPcoughs) other movie, there are supernatural elements in WW, but I think today's children can handle them just fine. If not, we'll turn Queen Aggie on them!

If you get a chance, do watch this one. It's a keeper.

**** out of *****

Xanadu (1980)

One of my favorites!

[8/10 · 9 July 2003]

I adore this film. I know it's not /Gone With the Wind/ but does give a slice of "time-freeze" well. I was 12, the theme of the time was roller skating, and because of /Grease/, every girl wanted to be Olivia. What better to do than to mix these ingredients into one neat movie.

Back in those days digital effects weren't the 'done' thing they are now. Star Wars was just out, and some of the laser effects were used in this film to an interesting end. The music, of course, rocks as it's all ELO and Olivia, and the leading man who played Sonny was rather hunky in a raw way. I can recall pulling out my skates after catching this film on TMC (which was The Star Channel in those days!) and practicing in my basement to do tricks that Olivia did throughout the movie. When the concept of Skateries took off, it gave me a chance to use them in Jr. High! Danny Kaye is the perfect gentleman in the film, and it's cool to see him on skates.

This movie is a fun movie for kids as well if you explain that some words are off-limits (mild cussing). My son likes it well.

I give this 8 out of 10.

Return from Witch Mountain (1978)

Nice for a sequel

[13 June 2003]

It's not perfect, and the wardrobe makes me shudder (Tia's poor clothing she never changes the entire movie!), but it's a nice Disney movie with some rather humorous parts. Eddie is particularly funny talking to the goat Alfred. Being a Tony and Tia fan, I thought this movie wonderful as a kid. As an adult, I see it as good "fodder" in the world of Spiderman, Hulk and the rest of the movies that have words that I have to remind my son not to repeat. Movie-makers seem to have forgotten the word "family".

The two siblings are deposited on the 50 yard line of the Rose Bowl 3 mos. before the next game, and escorted to the hotel by Eddie the Cabbie who drives more like a New York Cabbie. After Tony "visions" a man falling off a building (Davis' Letha's nephew, Sickle), he takes advantage of the cab's running out of gas to go help. As things do in the movies, the rescue wasn't as easy as he thought, and the good Doctor saw a golden opportunity to take control of molecular manipulation by enslaving Tony with his mind control device. Tia after feeling the prick of the hypodermic, goes to find him, and the chase is on with Tony vs. Tia the rest of the movie. The minivan is my favorite portion of the whole movie. *** out of 5 stars.

The Car (1977)

Niiiiiiiiiiiice!

[13 June 2003]

The devil made me do it. Really. I bought this VHS the second I saw it. It kept me awake with nightmares as a child, and the library offered no help in locating it until I hit that nice vowel-starting auction site. In re-watching it, I realized that there are signs of the decade it was created (especially in the bell-bottoms, I couldn't stop laughing when I watched the kids in the band practice their parade because the fashion world has come back to them again!), but there are other nice things.

One of the main details that this movie has is no explanations are made. The Indian woman comments about the ill wind that came with the car when she gives testimony. The sheriff's deputy feels that the reason it can't go into the graveyard is due to the hallowed ground. (Btw, the graveyard scene is the one that freaked me out as a kid). Parent (Brolin) discovers there are no handles on the doors, and another witness says that there's no driver. This all adds up to a nasty scenerio. Much like the later movie Poltergeist, you have to wonder if the Indians are right--get out of town! (they fled to the Deep Country--smart cookies!)

I adore Kim Richards, and her sister Kyle is a darling in this film. As an adult, I couldn't help but think who would take care of them should something happen to Parent. I think this is a good sign in a movie--you really begin to identify with the characters when things like this come to you!

The comment at the beginning from Anton gives the whole movie's plot a good basis. I do recommend this as a stay-home, eat popcorn, and enjoy flick!

;)

**** out of *****

Escape to Witch Mountain (1975)

Pretty good then, and still good now

[13 June 2003]

A long time ago, I was into books. This isn't a light phrase, I took out multitudes of them from the library. Alexander Key wrote a neat novel called "Escape to Witch Mountain" about a priest named Father O'Day who helps two siblings return to their people. It was a very good book, and I knew when I bought the book from the Book Fair that it was a reprint to endorse the movie. However, at that time, my movie-experiences were minimal. It took several years for me to actually be able to see the movie (when Disney first brought out the Disney Channel, iirc) and I was a bit surprised at the liberties that were taken with Key's book. The priest became the widower, and the beat up car became the RV. Bolt was not in the book, but he was an interesting main-villian, and I enjoyed the movie. My son, who is now 6 (Tues this week) enjoys watching it on VHS as much as I do!

Return was not as good--it was a "let's make money by doing a sequel" but it was cool too. As that 5th grader, I knew what it was to be outside the norm, and I wanted to have the same powers that Tia did, so I guess that's saying something!

I too place this movie with Parent Trap, Candleshoe, and Freaky Friday. Good movies that I don't have to worry about my child "catching" wrong words from! **** out of 5.

The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)

Very well done! (Some half-spoilers)

[8/10 · 30 March 2003]

I read the book long ago, and adored the storyline. I noticed similarities when Anthony Hopkins snuck out of prison as Diego in the Mask of Zorro. Then one of my friends brought up a tape, handed it to me, and said, "Watch this." Tonight, I did, and I must admit that it was excellent. The talents of the gentleman actor who played Dantes are perfect--I believed in Dantes' character the whole way through the script. Guy was just evil in his portrayal--especially when Ferdand and Mercedes were separated by railings in the Paris mansion discussing the end results of that morning's activities, and he replies that it's liberating. I was delighted to hear about Albert's parentage. Coming, as per usual to the IMDB site, I just ~had~ to look up the movie to find out who the warden was and I was not disappointed. This role was just a long line of roles in movies I liked: 1993's _Three Musketeers_ and _Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves_. He plays nasty so well. Paraphrasing: I don't have anything better to do all day cracked me up.

Harris, as usual, is a pleasure to watch with his smooth voice, and fluid acting. I am also a HP and a _Camelot_ fan, so enough said there!

This is a movie I recommend highly to all. Enjoy!

A Knight's Tale (2001)

Interesting....but definitely not SCA!

[7/10 · 27 March 2003]

Ok, I'm not the period police. I promise! I have discovered, though, watching this the inconsistencies glare out at me, but one filed and a promise to deal with them later was given, it began to grow on me. I borrowed the library copy (didn't pay for the viewing, always cool to see if you like a movie before you pay out funds for it), and settled in to watch it. I had heard from others in my March that it was ~not~ period. The first rock song clenched that. The story grabbed me, though. A man who wanted to better himself, and help his friends by earning money for food. Pretty cool, eh?

Now comes a bit of the complaining: The dresses and hairstyles of Jocelyn made me shudder. I own Episode One, and Padme and Jocelyn must have shared the same hairdresser, I swear! I know that hair is a bit harder to get perfectly period, but they could have at least 'tried' to give me more normal styles?

I did not really like the character of Jocelyn much, either. I routed on Kate to beat her out! *g*

If you're a picky person, who notices that hems of gowns aren't hand sewn, but were machine sewn, and gets upset over it at the Middle Kingdom's court (period police!), then this is not a movie for you. If you can put aside the blaring modern-isms, and just enjoy the movie for itself, then you'll like it. Then again, I might be a bit biased--Queen's my favorite band ever.

The Phantom of the Opera (1989)

I adore this movie!

[27 March 2003]

Yes, folks, I am a PotO fan. I can listen to ALW's soundtracks all night and day. I also am a huge fan of Freddy's series. The Nightmares are my favorite of the slasher genre.

That said, let's continue into the commentary, shall we? The thing that struck me most about this movie is the music, Don Juan Triumphant. It's a haunting melody that just sticks in your mind. For me, it stayed for years. I was lucky enough when with friends (who were working, leaving me alone in their off-campus housing bored for several hours) to find a copy at the corner video store. It was a delight.

Christine is NOT what you expect--she has no accents, doesn't look much like Sarah B, and I haven't a clue if that was really her singing. They did play fast and furious with the book. This does not mean it's a bad movie! I can count if I thought for three minutes ten other movies that deviated from the books they were based on? *S*

Basically, the movie, to me, deals with reincarnation. When Christine locates and brings the lyrics and melody for Erik's inspired masterpiece to an audition, she is struck on the head by a sand-bag in mid verse. This has her traveling back in time to the days of the setting of the book, but in England rather than France. I actually don't mind the changes; they make the story fresher in my mind. There, we learn that this 19th century Christine has been learning from a mysterious stranger who has taught her singing and plans to make her a star. Jill is a lovely woman, and in the role, she shines as she dones the jewels of Faust's love interest in the opera. Robert as Erik is as usual a wonderfully mysterious, sinister, yet humorous "bad guy", if you can call Erik that.

After the climax of the 19th century, Christine awakens to find herself in modern times again (hence my belief that it was a tale of reincarnation rather than actual-time travel--the 19th century Christine was established well before the incident!) and assisted by the show's patron.

I adore the synthesized versions of the music, and was extremely pleased when the library was able to locate a copy of the CD OST for me to check out. It's just as good as I remembered. Amazon had the VHS, and I am good to go now! :)

If you're seeking consistancy, accuracy towards the novel, or something resembling Michael Crawford, you're in the wrong place. If you're looking for a good tale that sends shivers up your spine (it did me as she placed money in the hat!), then this is the place.

Enjoy!

Now to just collect the rest of the NoES series....

Blade (1998)

Not the usual Vampire-Hunters hunting the bloodsuckers!

[9/10 · 26 March 2003]

It's not the usual Peter the Vampire Hunter seeks the vampire who killed his wife/daughter etc movie. Yes, that is the basis of the plot. But the method of execution of that plot is something else!

Start with Deacon Frost. This is not your normal egocentric vampire. I've seen Dracula 2000 (not too bad a movie--then again, I give it credit for having a new premise!), and am into White Wolf and the Camarilla so I know the two origins that are presented in each. I have the feeling that part might answer a few questions that have arose, but the whole feel is right. Frost makes a wonderful Anarch-Brujah kindred. The council of pure-bloods are like the Old-School Warrior Scholars, the True Brujah who resent this upstart who came in and tried to change their habits and ways. Do things properly seems to be what they are saying. Excellent resource for a gamer.

Then you've got Blade. A day-walker, as he's called in the movie. Dhamphir is another name I've heard applied in the VtM game to apply to him. I see not only the strength and stamina of a vampire, but the celerity of one as well. As for the Matrix-esque moves, you decide. How close are the two movies to release date, and remember to allow for cgi-production times as the actors are wrapped, but the "extras" added in. I don't think anyone stole anything here!

The good doctor Karen is an interesting twist. A cure for vampirism. Now that's something you don't see much of.

All in all, for someone who is not familiar with the comic book, I must say it's a pretty good movie. I plan to watch the sequel soon here to see if it measures up.

The Man in the Iron Mask (I) (1998)

Surprise! Leo "Can" act, but barely!

[5 March 2003]

I have not seen Titanic. I have seen the 1968 version of Romeo and Juliet and feel no need to watch Leo's version. Leo to me was a "pretty" boy actor, like Tom Cruise has become lately, who wasn't really acting but just walking through, having his lines handed to him. Then again, I dislike Backstreet Boys and 'N Sync, so I might be prejudiced!

My friend gave me the DVD and said just watch--it's not bad. At her slight pushing, and having the movie in hand to watch, I went ahead and took the plunge (popcorn and soda in hand!) thinking Leo would be ~horrible~ in this since he had two roles. I was surprised.

Now, I wouldn't say Louis 14th is a big stretch for a star of Leo's background--he probably has women throwing themselves at him, every whim handed to him, and etc; but Philippe was pretty well acted. I didn't pay as much attention to the words (or lack of accents) but rather watched Leo's eyes as he became the two characters. As Philippe, his eyes gave away the potential that lurks inside this young man as an actor. He's almost there--hopefully soon he'll reach that, but then again, Tom Cruise was a punk when he took a stint in a movie called Risky Business.

The Musketeers themselves were rather good. I used Closed Captioning, and that DOES help, grins, in figuring out what words are when the accents conceal them. Ignoring the obvious accent problems, I honestly enjoyed the acting of the 4 men. I did think something oddly strange about John's Athos, but I think that was because he was so perfectly American in his accent. Again, just me. The man acted quite well, though.

I haven't a clue where all these people get "Tim Curry" from in their previous reviews--Tim was NOT in this movie. Trust me, I know. If he had been, I wouldn't have waited to be thrust into seeing it! Tim Curry has been a favorite actor since RHPS and Time Square. Richelieu was NOT in this because the historical basis, and the character WERE DEAD! He died, iirc, in 1643, although I could be off a few years. His protege Marazan (spelled right, I hope?) another Cardinal took his role in raising the young prince. I didn't see M. in here, so I assume the setting of the movie was after his death.

All in all, it's not a bad movie. Take it from the .99 rental stack, bug your local library into letting you take out the DVD, or watch it on HBO/etc. It's worth the couple hours.

Still not sure if I'd have watched it on the big screen! Smiles.

It's fun, though. I did enjoy the pig-romp in the gardens.

Theater of Blood (1973)

Hooray for Horror that THINKS!

[5 March 2003]

I adore this movie. I am biased, I admit, and love Vincent Price's acting skills--Roger Corman's series are my bread and butter (and I even like Tomb of Ligeia!)--but I always knew there was more to him than just a horror actor. This movie gives Price the perfect vehicle to display his talents as both horror master and Shakespearan actor adding the hint of comedy that a good horror movie needs so that it doesn't take itself too seriously! (Freddy K's one of my favorites because of his sense of humor)

The movie opens giving us clues--Price's Edward Lionheart's suicide, his daughter's Edwina (Riggs) visit to the grave, and the deaths of the critics one by one as the season that Lionheart was up for the Critic's Choice award is followed to the letter based on the play they reviewed. Shakespeare is at its peak here with modern interpretations on the classical 16th/17th century plays. And WHAT interpretations!

I admit that the various methods of demise are rather graphic in nature, but in the era of horror movies we have today, the movie goers are used to blood and gore. I thought that each fit perfectly, and several remain in my memory to stand out long after the movie is returned to the library where I borrowed it from. If you're looking for a copy for keeps, try Ebay; else try it from the library or rental store first to make sure you do like it.

I was rather shocked to note that the Father Lawrence from the 1968 Romeo and Juliet is in this picture as an inspector. A pleasant surprise. The man also played in Barbarella as Duran Duran, for those who keep track of these things...

If you thought Dr. Phibes was great, and liked Roger Corman's series, then you should like this movie. If you're a fan of Shakespeare, enjoy!

Vincent Price movies never go out of style--they're always perfect for a Friday night in, with popcorn, a nice soft-drink, and the snow piling up outside.

Highlander II: The Quickening (1991)

Very funny in parts, thanks to Sean!//SPOILER ALERT!

[7/10 · 8 November 2002]

I watch this movie for one actor and one actor only and that is Sean Connery. I adore his personification of Juan Sánchez Villa-Lobos Ramírez in this movie. ~SPOILER ALERT!~ My favorite scene is where Ramirez was dead, and comes back to life during Hamlet. Sean plays it off the cuff and wonderfully with just the right amount of humor. I think he took the role for two reasons--the paycheck and the humor. Since he really didn't need the money, makes you wonder, eh?

The plot itself does NOT make sense when placed into the the series, but as for a stand alone it is rather interesting. I keep seeing this movie and Total Recall as being quite similar in their concepts, but there are some pretty interesting parts.

Katana, as always, is a study in darkness. I rather liked some of his lines and his dark humor, but he's similar to The Kurgan/Victor Kruger in the first and Mario's role in the 3rd. (I haven't seen Endgames yet, and before you yell, it's sitting on my shelf waiting for a free moment) Conner's always the good immortal, and there's always the bad ones. Katana is a bit badder than most. Grins.

I also liked the Queen on the jukebox from the Kind of Magic album. :) It was nice to see that Freddie still cared enough to give permission for the band's music to be associated with Highlander despite the screenplay!

I gave it a 7, based on other things not on the place in the series as a whole.

Dungeons & Dragons (2000)

Interesting, and not what I thought it'd be from the other comments!

[3 November 2002]

I admit the first thing that came to mind when I was given the box by a friend who let me borrow it was the movie Neverending Story, and the Emporess in it. I swear Thora looks amazingly like her, including the costumes. The designer must have been a fan! Thora seems a bit stilted, yes, Marlon drove me batty the whole way through and the storyline was a bit stretched and overcooked. I won't deny those. The CGI are gorgeous(!) though. I found the idea of Justin Whalen as Ridley pretty good--partiality perhaps to that coloring on a man, but I liked him in the role. He played Ridley pretty well. Marina (Zoe) was not too bad--I've seen worse folks in worse roles, and I liked how she spent time as looking bad! No, "oh, I've fallen and been tortured and such and still maintain my flawless beauty!" here. I went into the movie knowing the name Jeremy Irons (big Disney fan in the other room---5 year old), but I have to admit, he did seem a bit over the top in places.

I went into the movie, though, not taking it seriously. I think because of that it was very funny at parts.

I'd be interested in learning what role Ridley would have had if they had continued the series on--as far as a character his is the one that brought me into the storyline the most.

Dr. Who's Tom Baker was nice, and I liked his few words of wisdom. I think, should it have been a success, the franchise would have made more of them. You can tell this is film number one in that several issues weren't wrapped up in order to leave dangling leads for the new movies. Alas, this shall not be.

Richard O'B was a delightful surprise (as he ALWAYS is when he sneaks into a movie I'm watching whether the Spice Girls or Riff). He portrays the weaselly type so well. :)

Some other reviewer mentioned the thieves having no skill. I think it's not that they had no skills, but rather Snails had problems in skills. I think that Ridley was good enough that he brought in enough to feed Snails and he, and perhaps relatives somewhere.

If you have popcorn, a rainy day, and time to kill, this is the perfect movie to borrow from a friend and watch. It brought back all those nice memories of Conan and Arnold, He-Man, and of course The Power Ranger Movies.

Smiles. How soon they forget....

Grease 2 (1982)

One of my favorites!

[3 August 2002]

I didn't get to see Grease (I) in the theaters. My parents argued with the issue, but I watched it on the "Star Channel" which became the Movie Channel later. I immediately identified with Sandy--not just because of the accent, but because of the good-girl longing to break out role.

Grease 2 came out, and I HAD to see it. Mom had gotten me all the soundtrack songs from the first from the radio (the old tape-recorder and setting it alongside the radio, and I taped the 2nd movie's soundtrack the same way off the television. I fell in love with Michael--he began to haunt my dreams. As Cool Rider, he was so gorgeous, all that leather, and perfect. Stephanie was a perfect compliment to him. (Doesn't help much that I like Catwoman?) I also liked Adrian Zmed. I watched Bachelor Party tonight. I didn't realize that Jay O'Neil was he! It was when he same "...Demon..." that it brought back the memories of Grease. The man sang great. Wonder why he didn't go into the business?

There was something about being in jr. high when this movie was out that added to the flavour of my perception (like Catsup). I would have given anything for a Pink Ladies' reversible jacket. (Another neat touch--I didn't know they reversed to black!)

This was a wonderful comedy, as well as a great commentary about school-life in general. And yes, I own a copy. When I saw it at Giant Eagle last year, I had to grab it before it disappeared. To me, it's that good.

(I do admit that I've long been bothered though about Michael playing at the talent show after the jump though....)

8 out of 10 stars!

Men in Black II (2002)

It's good summer laughs!

[7/10 · 28 July 2002]

My friends in the Cam and I went to see this with my son (who has fallen in love with this movie). Besides laughing at pie (inside Cam joke) comments, we laughed almost the whole time the movie was on the screen. It moved quickly, giving you little time to breath, as the plot progressed.

MIIB isn't Shakepeare, Castaway, or Forrest Gump. It's meant for taking your gal/guy to in the middle of summer, and relaxing for approx. 2 hours or so. I am a Star Wars fan, Trekker, and I liked Batman. MIIB isn't the world's best movie ever. It's not the worst either (there are several that I WOULD classify as that, did someone mention a movie based on Power Rangers or Barney!??). It entertained me. I won't go into details on the plot. Enough other folks have spoiled it enough. I will say though that this movie is considered to be a few years after the first. That DOES make a difference in Jay. In 5 years, any employee improves their skills (and becomes top agent!). Patrick's role as T had me laughing, but then I also liked his role in _The_Emperor's_New_Grove_ . Frank stole the show for me, though! My son sang along with him with "...Dogs...".

It was worth the price tag to entertain us without us having to drive to the amusement park (the food concessions were another story!), and I plan to watch it when it reaches the $1 theater in the next two months. I also plan to re-see Spiderman and Epie II there as well.

If you are uncertain if it's worth watching, check your own local for the reduced rate theaters and catch it there. It's an acquired taste, but I loved it!

(and we're buying ALL the BK toys now, lol!)

I give it 6 1/2 out of 10 stars.

Vampires (1998)

Interesting take!

[28 July 2002]

Some spoilers!

I read the book this was based on after seeing the movie, and to be honest, the difference in endings threw me for a loop. The book is dark, and deep. The movie is more along the top. It's not a bad movie, though. The Protean activities of the vampires was interesting, and Texas as a home base was kewl. My favorite scene was the one with the pack bursting out of the soil in the sunset.

There was a great deal of blood, and I tried to keep my son from seeing it, but then again, so did Blade! It seems that any horror movie these days employs a great deal of Corn-syrup and food coloring to get their ideas against, but there was something in that hotel scene that just blew my mind! It was totally gruesome, and something rather unique among the genre. I'm a vampire afficiendo, and have seen several vampire movies. If I had to place similarities among older movies, I'd place Vampire$ along side Near Dark and From Dusk to Dawn (with Cheech). I particularly liked the priest's accompaning the party!

If you can get the movie cheap at the store, or rent it for the .99 price, then you're getting a good popcorn eating cuddling together on the couch deal. Just make sure that your gal wants to hide her eyes (and then peek when you're not looking)!

(or guy, if that's the other way around!)

It's much better than several, has some very memorable lines, and is great entertainment.

6 out of 10 stars.

Wizards (1977)

One of my favorites!

[10 July 2002]

A mostly older teen/adult movie for some adult situations and humor. I adore this movie. I love the concept of Avatar as a dirty old man, Elinore as a impatient young woman who is being primed for leadership, and Peace just in general. All the elements of magic, humor, and good artristy make this one of the movies I literally fought for at an auction.

Basically the plotline has twin wizarding brothers, born of a fae mother, who are forced to battle for the sake of the world. There are elves, and fae folk on the side of good (Avatar); and assassins, goblins, and demons from hell, as well as what might be mutated humans under uniforms are on the side of evil (Blackhawk).

The ending did shock me, I won't deny it! If you can locate a copy of this it's worth every penny. Ralph did well. For the men, there is also plenty of animated eye candy! Then again, he did the same type of character form in Cool World with Holly.

Sit back, pour a soda-pop, and enjoy this film. Four out of five stars!

Logan's Run (1976)

Wonderful movie! Timely message

[4 April 2002]

This movie has woven through my mind deeply. There is nothing more thought provoking then seeing beautiful people refusing to permit old-age. Logan is 26, 4 years away from Last Day when the story unfolds (not 30, like the paragraph above states!), and then undertakes a task because the computer forces it upon him by speeding up his life-clock! The society tries so hard to be a "Brave New World" but there are those who rebel against this "Renewal" at 30 concept. For those who "Run" there are the Sandman, and they track down the runners. Logan's one of these, which is in itself a Paradox.

It's interesting seeing how the 1976 movie maker envisioned the future to be like. The Hedonistic attitude was rather humourous, and the "Circuit" I think was a combination of Star_Trek (beaming) and TV!

Knowing the York has been in other movies, like Cabaret, it's great seeing his acting abilities in something a bit lighter (years before the "SHAG ME BABY" movies!).

This movie is one of two that I put together (as I can see that the reviewer before me also must do!). I consider Soylent Green and this to be a one-two punch for a society wake up call in the midst of the turmoil that was the 70's.

I consider it a must see movie. And if that fails, there's always the Young Farrah Fawcett?

Hamlet (1969)

One fine actor

[10/10 · 2 September 2001]

I was switching channels one Saturday evening when my dial stopped--Nicol was on the screen, and there was no mistaking him. I didn't recognize the role at first, until he spoke a few words; then the play came to me like a flash. Hamlet. I stayed, and finished out the play as much as I could (I was suffering insomia and just channel-surfing to fall asleep by) before cursed sleep took over. (Sleep that knits the raveled sleep of care, oh, wait. That's another of his movies!)

In all seriousness, I was intrigued by his portray of the mad-Prince. The mood changes were all down perfectly--you could see the insanity truly right below the eyes. Now, either Nicol's a brillant actor (natch!) or he's a bit touched himself! Every little thing he did onscreen, ever muscle twitch in his facial expressions--you really believed that he was insane, and it was perfect. I had never seen any of the other Hamlet plays, just local-type ones by amateurs, and he blew my socks off.

I HIGHLY recommend this movie. Now, if you get a copy, you'd better tell me where--I've been looking for footage since that night! I even opened the TV-Guide, tore out the little paragraph that was in there about it, and stashed it so I could have all the particulars.

Never found a copy yet (video stores and libraries), but I haven't given up home.

Do check out this movie if you see it's coming on cable again--it's very worth the few hours!

:)

Dee

Alice in Wonderland (II) (1985)

I fell in love all over again

[10/10 · 13 August 2001]

When this was first run, I liked it, but now barely recalled details of it. I was a senior in HS, and it was mainly put on to amuse my brother (but my family knew of my own fascination with Alice, lol, so I guess to amuse me too!), who didn't really care. I knew that I recognized the girl who played Alice (who was Jenny in Oliver & Co--THAT'S where I knew her from, thanks IMDB!) at the time, but never could place her. The actors and actresses took their roles and made them their own. I believe that besides Alice, the White Knight is my favorite supporting role, however. I too had nightmares at age 17 (!) of the Jabberwocky but that didn't stop me from watching it. In the many years since the details faded, but that Jabberwocky stayed with me--until I could no longer recall which version I had seen it in. I've been seeking it. I did like the 1999 version, which sits in VHS beside the Disney version (can't tell I'm a fan in general?) which I also liked. Each had their own parts that drew me in. This one, despite the problem with accents, did the same.

Yes, it's a Hollywood'ed version, so they tend to ignore the setting when it comes to accents, but would you really want to hear Sammy Davis Jr with an English accent? I did find Sally Struthers as the obnoxious Tiger Lily rather humorous (especially after her "correspondence school" commercials, iirc that she had out during that time too! It seemed to fit some how. :)

All in all, a very good movie, and one that I shall look for in Ebay, Yahoo and Amazon for a copy. I am very grateful to the local library who carried part 2, and allowed me to renew my acquaintance with this gem once again.

Dee

The Water Babies (1978)

A memory from childhood

[10/10 · 5 August 2001]

I was wandering through my local library, browsing VHS tapes, when I saw a movie that made my mouth drop--Waterbabies. I have been hoping to see this movie again--it's been over 22 years since I saw it (cable-movie channel around 78-79). I had recalled a good many of the details--Grimes in particular. My son, who is 4, and I watched it.

He agreed with me that Grimes was "Not nice", and the best way for me to describe it was that he didn't love Tom. He accepted that. It was amazing that I still recalled some of the songs, too! They had stuck in my head for 22 years--which means they had to have some memorable-ness, eh?

It's a good child's movie, with parental guidance in case of questions about what children had to go through that were not nobility/society in the time-frame. This is what all the children faced daily (except for a few lucky ones), and while we try to Disney-coat movies, making them more pc for children these days, it doesn't mean that cruelty didn't exist--or even still doesn't. I enjoyed the animation. It wasn't Disney, no. I don't think Don Bluth touched a paintbrush on this movie.

There's a lot going for it, though. David T plays two roles! (I really like him!) James M does too. The waterbabies themselves are cute. You feel sorry for Tom, and root for him. Then Billie herself is extraordinary in the multi-role part she's playing--it's as if her eyes ARE magickal! I'm a huge fan of WoO, TLW&TW, and company (AND LOOKING FORWARD TO HP!), and I filed this along with those kind of movies. Yes, he jumps in the water, but not because of suicide. He jumped because he trusted the lady in black--she'd been appearing to him all along.

I think it's a good movie! If you have kids, pick up a rental copy. If you happen to locate a buy-able copy, let me know where! Ian liked it! :)

Dee