jackdarrenhunt Reviews

Richard Pryor: Live in Concert (1979)

Quite Simply the Greatest Stand-Up Routine Ever Recorded

[21 July 2004]

I can't express how dazzlingly brilliant this routine is. The jokes, the faces, the mime, the banter, ad-libs - everything amazes. This is the 'Citizen Kane' of routines and many comedians since have taken inspiration from it including Eddie Murphy (esp.) Chris Rock and Eddie Izzard.

Yes it is profane, but if you are stupid enough to watch a Pryor stand- up without being prepared for extreme 'vulgarity' then frankly you deserve to be offended. The language, although extreme isn't that shocking (even the now dreaded 'N' word) because it is all part of Pryor's 'jive' and would be poorer without it.

Watch this and see a master at the top of his game.

Solaris (2002)

Don't Listen to the Knockers

[28 October 2003]

I read these comments before watching the film and so expected a stinker. Solaris is no where near being a bad movie. In fact its a great movie and the negative comments on this board says more about the reviewer than the film. If you are NOT an overstimulated multiplex squatter with ADD who expects, nay demands explosions and car chases every 2 minutes or else lots of angry men with guns shouting all the time then you will appreciate this film. It takes about 20 minutes to adjust to the pace (which is decidedly measured) but once you settle into it then the cinematography, soundtrack, plot and acting are a joy.

Its a thought provoking and occasionally moving film which you will enjoy if you are cine-literate and possess a wide diversity of filmic tastes.