fanaticita Reviews

Great Balls of Fire! (1989)

A Must See!

[10/10 · 4 March 2017]

Dennis Quaid was magnificent as Jerry Lee Lewis. He had everything spot on -Lewis' mannerisms, walk, energy, voice, etc. What a performance! I truly believe he should have won an award. Winona Ryder and Alec Baldwin were also excellent. Ryder was so young and so expressive. Baldwin nailed it as the preacher although I hardly recognized him. It was so much fun hearing Lewis' songs again. A must see movie for those who love singer bio pictures.

Daddy Nostalgia (1990)

A moving masterpiece

[16 December 2005]

The other reviewers have captured the essence of this beautiful film about a family searching for love, relationship, meaning. For me it was a bittersweet viewing as I am a devoted Dirk Bogarde fan, and this was his last film. Bogarde, according the the special features section of the DVD, didn't want to do the film to begin with, but changed his mine. How grateful the film audience is for his decision! I noticed his voice had changed somewhat -a bit higher in tone, perhaps because he had aged, or perhaps his characters situation in the film. Still, it was pure Bogarde, subtle, intense, utterly and completely believable always. With the addition of a beautifully written script, exquisite scenery, and the fine acting of Ms. Birkin and the supporting cast it was a delight. During the special features section Ms. Birkin was interviewed and had nothing but lovely things to say about Dirk Bogarde, his special sensitivity to her during the filming, his aid to help her through difficult scenes, etc. The film world lost one of its finest when we lost Bogarde.

Accident (1967)

Not up to expectation -SPOILERS

[13 December 2005]

Having just viewed The Victim, Night Porter, and The Servant -all Dirk Bogarde films, I found the accident interesting but somewhat boring. Yes, the atmosphere is thick with uncomfortable people in uncomfortable situations. The dialogue is sparce. People stare. We hear thoughts. . . a whole sequence of Stephen and a former girlfriend meeting in a restaurant with very little if any dialog. And a sign in the restaurant "Eat here and keep your wife at home as a pet." Lovely. Apparently the restaurant was known for late night trysts.

The three men, Stephen, Charley, and William have the hots for Anna, although I can't imagine why. She is as warm as a piece of stone, and her acting is minimal. I wasn't prepared for the final accident. Whose? I was reminded of some of the French and Italian films of the 1960 -L'Avventura, La Notte, L'Eclisse.

I Am David (2003)

I loved the ending!!! SPOILERS************

[21 April 2005]

SPOILERS******************** I don't know what people wanted. . . . a teary, dramatic, symphonic reunion between David and his mother? On, that would have been underwhelming. It was a perfect ending. It wasn't rushed. It was subtle, intense without being super-sentimental, understated, but profound. The music Cold Water by Damien Rice was perfect. Did you listen to it? The emotion of Damien Rice's voice layered perfectly what we saw on the screen. I thought this was a brilliant move by the director. We don't need to be beaten over the head by a drama. The fact that there were no words by either member of the cast made it all the more effective. We saw their faces, and after all a picture is worth a thousand words.

In addition it was wonderful seeing the amazing Hristo Shopov in this wonderful role as The Man, plus the additional treat of Jim Caviezel and Joan Plowright.

Shot in the Heart (2001 TV Movie)

Magnificent! POSSIBLE SPOILERS

[15 April 2005]

I am a Giovanni Ribisi fan, and this film has to be one of his best. It didn't dawn on me that this was a film about THE Gary Gilmore of the 1970s. Surprise, since I wasn't really into reading newspapers back then. Contrary to other posts, there is a LOT going on in this film. Relationships are clearly defined. The Gilmore parents, Sam Shepard and Amy Madigan have a love/hate relationship. The brothers are all products of a very dysfunctional family. For the most part the plot focus on the relationship between Gary and his youngest brother Mikal. They barely know each other, but become acquainted in gut wrenching prison visits by Mikal. The prison scenes between Gary and Mikal are riveting. Using a prison phone and talking to Gary for what might be the last time Mikal (Ribisi) gives the performance of his life -it's all in the eyes as he soaks in his brother's soul and being, agonizing over what might have been. This tore me up.

The Dead Pool (1988)

Loved them all!!!

[4 March 2005]

Having just seen Dead Pool, the last of the Dirty Harry series, I have to say that I enjoyed this film as much as the other four. I don't have a favorite, I loved them all. Recently I became interested in Clint Eastwood's films and have seen a number of them including the westerns. Eastwood is an amazing guy. He has presence on the screen that is extraordinary. It's not that he is such a great actor, but I can't take my eyes off of him when he is in a scene. His face conveys such hysterical expression when he comes out with, "Swell!" or "Marvelous!" He's irreverent, gritty, rude, shoots criminals in the back, beats the sh-t out of them, antagonizes everyone, and so what. He gets the job done! I liked everyone in the cast even Patricia Clarkson and her nasal voice. Liam Neeson was great, sounding for all the world exactly like Ralph Fiennes. And the music in all five of the series was terrific -the best! What a treat!

Dirty Pretty Things (2002)

Brilliant!!

[21 June 2004]

I missed seeing this film in the theaters, but rented the video and was astounded. The story was compelling, frightening, and gave us an insight into the life of the dark side of existence which many of us never see as a "reward" for living a life of privilege. But what of those whose choices are very limited? This film unfolds that side of life. Chitwetel Ejiofor delivered a controlled, sensitive, very believable portrayal and I sincerely hope his career continues to grow and that he receives more recognition as a truly fine actor. Matched with Audrey Tautou, the two of them were delightful in their bittersweet attraction to each other -so subtle which made it even more poignant. I was cheering for them at the end even though it was not entirely clear what the future might have in store for them. There has been enough said about the plot itself, the underside of London, the immigrants dilemma, etc. Hurrah for Ejiofor and Tautou!!!

F.T.W. (1994)

Pure Mickey Rourke

[2 June 2004]

I loved this film! It was Mickey's showcase all the way. It reminded me a bit of his role in Rumble Fish -the soft-spoken older brother dealing with a rash younger sibling. In The Last Ride the same soft-spoken character is dealing with Scarlett who is bent on self destruction. Mickey was so very cool in this film, subtle, but never dull. Watching him pull off those subtle moves is a delight to see -the guy is such a gifted actor and so underappreciated. The rest of the cast put in excellent performances including Rodney A. Grant, and Brion James. Lori Singer, who in many peoples estimation is no actress, put in a very good performance as far as I'm concerned. She displayed a wide range and was very believable. But hey, this was Mickey's film all the way. Can you tell that I positively love the guy????

Fall Time (1995)

comedy or tragedy?

[5 April 2004]

I didn't know what to think at first because there were so many nutty things going on in this juicy little film. Yea, now that I read some of the other reviews, the homoerotic thing fits. I wondered if I was imagining things, or what. All the touching, close contact,. . . is he going to kiss him?! Mickey Rourke was amazing! And he had the best lines many of which were sheer poetry/philosophy/Rourke. I was sure he wrote the script, but no. Baldwin was also in excellent form. Actually they all were. Sheryl Lee was a riot having fun with the role -almost too much fun, as the clever "girl who got away." See the film!!! Oh, and the Mom who was always baking pies -too funny. Not a word from her, but she stole the scenes from the ranting Dad.

Saved by the Light (1995 TV Movie)

Good but not brilliant

[5 March 2004]

This was an interesting enough story, definitely. However, it was not a good vehicle for Eric Roberts who appeared a little uncomfortable in this role. Compared to his other great accomplishments, Pope of Greenwich Village, Nature of the Beast, Runaway Train, La Cucaracha, etc., this role paled in comparison. Eric is a great talent and likes to stretch his artistic muscles, and this role just didn't give him the opportunity. The story was unusual and gave a lot of insight into the "out of body" experience. Food for thought. Nice cinematography in the "heaven" scenes. Eric's wife played a small role as the woman in the vehicle who he tries to save. I'd say this is a good film for people interested in the supernatural possibilities. Eric Roberts fans may be disappointed.

La Cucaracha (1998)

Magnificent!!! some spoilers***

[19 February 2004]

Having only seen Eric Roberts in two films: Pope of Greenwich Village, and King of the Gypsies, I have to say I'm hooked!!! Why Robert isn't a star in the full sense of the word, I'll never know.

La Cucaracha was brilliant, taking "Warren" through a journey of self-discovery with a little help along the way. The use of "magical realism" made some moments in the film puzzling to Norteamericano audiences, I'm sure -like how he survived the shooting or the drowning. Suspend belief, folks! I loved the various genres: film noir, dark comedy, etc. And this was clearly Eric Robert's film. He was entirely believable from the opening scenes throughout to the end. Robert has one of those faces that conveys everything. If it's true that the eyes are the mirror of the soul then his performance confirms that belief.

The most comical lines are juxtaposed with tragic events: "Why is everybody so nuts???!" One of my favorite lines in the film.

For all Eric Robert's fans. . .this is a must!! See it!

A Prayer for the Dying (1987)

Another Great one for Mickey

[23 January 2004]

Gotta admit, I'm on a Mickey Rourke run, having just seen Angel Heart, Barfly, and Francesco. A Prayer for the Dying is a wonderful piece of work -teriffic acting by all, including Bates, Hoskins, etc. Mickey Rourke has to be one of the most under-rated actors in the industry. His "bad-boy" image hasn't helped, as it has helped other actors who fall into the same category. He reminds me a lot of Steve McQueen -subtle, intense, controlled acting, but when the action is needed he delivers. I sincerely hope he has a comeback sometime soon. In the meantime, run to your nearest video store and rent this great film. There are some incredible moments that I won't forget anytime soon. This story has been told before: bad guy trying to get away from the badness. . . but Rourke makes is all new, by adding his own unique charism. See it.

The Flowers of St. Francis (1950)

Delightful

[22 January 2004]

I've seen three or four films on the life of St. Francis of Assisi and they have all focused on different aspects of his life. I found this film in a library on video. The tape was not in the greatest shape, or perhaps it had had a lot of use. . . at any rate, it presented a bleak existence for St. Francis and his little band of followers. However, Rossellini had the presence of mind to find humor in almost every episode. I am thinking especially of the leader of a tribal encampment who unsuccessfully tries to bully and provoke one of the monks who has been captured. Because of the passive, good-natured monk, and his ability to withstand the bullying, the tribe burns the camp, sets the monk free, and leaves the area securing peace for the villagers.

This film is somewhat "raw" in that there is not much depth and it is rather crudely put together. I imagine it was a labor of love for Rossellini. If you want to see a truly stunning film on the life of St. Francis, get a copy of Francesco, with Mickey Rourke and Helena Bonham Carter.

Something's Gotta Give (2003)

I LOVED it!!!!

[19 December 2003]

This was the greatest romantic comedy since that film with Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan several years ago. Jack Nicholson had me laughing throughout the entire film -I mean I was aching.And I wasn't the only on laughing in the theater. Maybe I was looking for something to cheer me up -YEAH! Jack was hilarious! Diane was great! Keanu show us he knows how to act. What more could you ask for? Go see it and have fun.

Godspell (1973)

yawn

[19 December 2003]

I kept seeing this video at my local library, and finally decided to rent it. After the first 10 minutes I knew I had mada a mistake. Who remembers The Electric Company? What on earth were the producers of this film thinking??? Enough hippie rock operas already. As for Jesus films, I've seen them all, but this was pathetic. Okay, Victor Garber was pretty good, I have to admit, and one or two others, but for the most part the other actors appeared in another film. I kept fast forwarding ahead to keep from falling asleep. If you want to see some good Jesus films see:

Jesus of Nazareth Jesus Christ Superstar Last Temptation of Christ Gospel According to Matthew (Pasolini)

Blue (1968)

Unusual, but great

[23 June 2003]

A typical Western in a way, but with Terence Stamp as the star, it is anything but typical. As a man who doesn't fit in anywhere, Blue tries to enter the culture he was born into, but is not entirely accepted. He doesn't want to return to his adoptive father and the lifestyle of a bandit. His journey to acceptance by all and his lingering affection for the only life he had known previously finally comes to a conclusion in one of the most devastatingly beautiful yet tragic scenes I've seen in a long time.

Yes, it's true Stamp's British accent slips in and one wonders where the heck is this cowboy from??!! But it's not a big distraction. Rent it and see for yourself. Stamp is awesome!

Blue (1968)

Loved this film

[20 June 2003]

As a long-time Terence Stamp fan, I finally was able to rent this video after a long search. I don't care if Terence's cockney accent slipped through now and then. It didn't distract me from watching his beautiful performance as Azul/Blue, who finds it difficult to fit into either world: the Mexican world to which he belonged after his parents were killed and he was found by the "bandit" Ortega, or the world of the "gringo" from which he came. There was some residual "Billy Budd" quality in this film which may have been unintended on Stamp's part. It was a delight to see Stamp in this role -he is such a natural. The ending was somewhat enigmatic, but the filming of the last scenes in the river were beautiful, believable, and tragic.

The Reluctant Saint (1962)

Wanting to know more. . .

[19 June 2003]

I rented this video because I wanted to know more about the Franciscan saint Joseph of Cupertino. The director chose to have Schell portray the saint as a kind of bumbling fool, which in my opinion was a directorial mistake. Joseph's simplicity was from within, and that part of the self comes with depth. Schell certainly is an actor who has the capacity for great artistic work and throughout his career has delivered stunning performances. What a shame that the director didn't allow Schell to bring more depth to the character of Joseph of Cupertino.

Morte in Vaticano (1982)

Terence Stamp carries this one!

[2 June 2003]

I don't know about the "alleged" murder of a pontiff, but this was an ingriguing story. The young priest who comes back from India a changed man, somewhat mirrors Terence Stamp's own experience in the ashrams of India during the 1970s. Although Stamp had no malice in mind upon his return. The scenery in India was brief but striking, and obviously his experiences there impressionable to the extreme. It's as though the young priest and the pontiff exchanged realities: liberal vs. conservative; conservative vs. liberal. At any rate I was not disappointed in the film. I wasn't aware of any horrendous dubbing as another reviewer suggested. Certainly Terence Stamp was the highlight of this film -the ever subtle, yet commanding presence of Stamp continues to delight this fan!!!

My Wife Is an Actress (2001)

A delight!

[15 May 2003]

I'm not familiar with French films, but I purposely bought this film because I am a long-time fan of Terence Stamp. And as always I am never disappointed in his presence on the screen. Ivan Attal was hilarious as the jealous husband -a very talented, animated actor. Charlotte did a fine job, but seemed low energy or bored most of the time. The attraction between Charlotte and Terence was laughable. I caught that amusement in Terence's behavior whenever he was around her -he really couldn't care less, could he, but why not try? His lack of enthusiasm was evident when he approached Charlotte's assistant with: "Well, what are YOU doing tonight?"

At the end of the "I'm pregnant!" scene, I wanted to know: Whose baby?

Heaven (1998)

Amazing!

[25 March 2003]

Okay, I am a Martin Donovan fan first of all, and Heaven was an incredible vehicle for Martin to show us once again his great acting skills. In fact, the entire cast did a great job. Yes, the sequence of the film was a bit confusing, but then became very surprising and enjoyable -never predictable. Martin is a master of subtlety and watching him perform is pure delight. Next to the Book of Life, this is my favorite Donovan film.

The Ponder Heart (2001 TV Movie)

Pure Eudora Welty

[24 March 2003]

A beautiful film full of the richness and complexity of Southern life in the 1930s (?).The characters were beautifully portrayed and expressed the times, the concerns, desires, and needs of the Ponder family. Peter MacNichol was entirely believable as the beloved uncle whose only fault was his generosity. Angela Bettis clinched the innocent, pouting, yet headstrong Bonnie Dee. And JoBeth Williams did her best to hold the family together, while being cautiously aware of how life for the ponders seemed to be slipping away.

If you like the writing of Eudora Welty, you will love this film.

The Forsyte Saga (2002–2003)

Pleasantly surprised

[10 October 2002]

Having seen the original TV broadcast of The Forsyte Saga in the 1960s, I have to say I'm hooked on the new Saga. However, I noticed in the credits for the new, that there is no mention of Fleur!!! Has she been completely written out of the story? What a shame. The new Soames (Damien Lewis) is wonderful as is Irene (Gina McKee) - both convey so much with facial expressions. I can't wait to see more of Ioan Gruffudd!!

DeeDee