pmcmurry Reviews

Hiroshima (1995 TV Movie)

A Very Candid Look at the Monumental Decision

[10/10 · 6 October 2003]

First of all, it would have been absolutely impossible to find a actor who looked and acted more like Harry Truman that Kenneth Walsh. Second, the most fascinating aspects of this movie relate to what was happening in Japan at the closing of the war. The idea that a majority of the military officers would have rather seen Japan cease to exist as a people than to surrender really provides some counter-balance to all of the recent revisionist history that claims that Japan was in the process of surrendering and that the U.S. used the A-bomb simply to avenge earlier Japanese treachery. "Hiroshima" is historical film-making at its best.

Murder on the Orient Express (1974)

Albert Finney is fantastic.

[10/10 · 29 July 2003]

When a friend first told me that Albert Finney was playing Poirot in the 1974 version of "Orient Express" that I was watching on AMC, I did not believe him. Even after I saw the credits, I could scarcely believe it. Finney's handling of the role was nearly perfect; only David Suchet had been as an effective Poirot. Besides Finney, the movie includes some of the greatest performances by some of the greatest actors. Lauren Bacall, Sean Connery, Sir John Gielgud are all fantastic in their roles. Ingrid Bergman's performance was truly deserving of an Oscar. This is, by far, the bast treatment of an Agatha Christie story.

Batman & Robin (1997)

George Clooney: the Girly Batman

[2/10 · 23 July 2003]

One of the most disturbing elements of the film is how feminine George Clooney is as Batman. While Michael Keaton and, to a lesser extent, Val Kilmer were a strong presence in their costumes, Clooney reminds me of a guy in drag. That, combined with one of the least imaginative plots of any of the recent super hero movies, makes this a dud.

Adrenalin: Fear the Rush (1996)

Makes No Sense Whatsoever

[1/10 · 23 July 2003]

This is one of those movies that feels like it was made by a bunch of high schoolers with A.D.D. There is no seriously developed plot whatsoever and some scenes are of inexplicable value to what little plot there is. The writers seem to be trying to make a combination of "Outbreak" and "Aliens" but they don't even get close to bringing the movie to any sort of resolution. Avoid this movie like the plague.

Where Eagles Dare (1968)

A Great World War II Action Yarn!

[10/10 · 23 July 2003]

This is an often overlooked Eastwood action movie because of his successful westerns and the Dirty Harry series. While it is a bit long for some people, those that enjoy war movies or spy thrillers should find it quite enjoyable. Of course, Eastwood is accompanied by the great Richard Burton and the lovely Mary Ure. The plot twists are not as ridiculous as some of the other reviewers would lead you to believe. If you enjoyed "The Guns of Navarone," you will also enjoy "Where Eagle s Dare."

Clue (1985)

One of the greatest comedic ensemble casts ever assembled!

[10/10 · 21 July 2003]

Tim Curry is absolutely fabulous as the butler, Wadsworth. It is one of his best roles. Martin Mull and Christopher Lloyd are also excellent. And we get to see Michael McKean slap Eileen Brennan silly! What could be better!