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Reviews
Sum hon (2003)
I honestly can't believe this has such a low rating!
This film is AMAZING! I think this is one of the most powerful thrillers I have ever seen (trust me, I've made a career out of the thriller genre).
This film is so much more than a thriller, it is an examination of marriage and true love.
It is indeed confusing on the first viewing. This is the type of film (i.e. THE FIFTH ELEMENT, ROSENCRABTZ AND GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD, any thing written / directed by David Lynch)that you must watch more than once to understand why it's great. It's also not a film I would recommend for simple minds, it does require some involved thought process, Beautiful cinematography,Beautiful acting, beautifully written, beautiful direction, editing, sound, lighting... everything about this film is beautiful.
Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
Terrible! A total waste of film, time and money.
I honestly cannot believe that this movie got such good reviews! Is the movie going public losing brain power? First of all, I had a feeling that this movie was going to be bad. The only reason I went to see it was because a friend of mine (who repeatedly goes to terrible movies)dragged me to it. I decided that since I hadn't seen a Hollywood movie in a while, so I thought, well, if nothing else maybe I'll get a good laugh at it. Ten minutes into the movie, I was squirming in my seat and heckling the movie.
Here are the simple facts as to why this movie sucks: - Orlando Bloom is not capable of carrying an entire movie, he's NOT a good actor. - Eva Green had too small a part. If anyone could have carried this movie it was her. - The cinematography and editing were terrible. I saw too many lens flares, blown out frames, color mis-matches and bad cutting for me to ignore. I am a filmmaker, but still, I believe that it is a filmmakers duty to make the best picture you're capable of making. - The script was definitely the worst thing about it because, if you have a bad script, there is nothing you can do to save it. It was full of holes and poorly constructed almost to the point of being confusing (if it weren't already so boring). - Finally, there was absolutely nothing original about the things that could have been original: I.E. costumes, battle scenes, character traits... the list goes on.
Overall, I would say that this movie is a complete and udder waste of time, money, and the film it's printed on. Hollywood needs to stop green lighting crap! Movies like this are the reason that I don't watch Hollywood films.
3/10
Dogville (2003)
Complete and utter TRASH!
I just don't understand how this movie got such good reviews. It's boring, pretentious, monotonous, and vomitous!
The minimalist set didn't work for OUR TOWN, what made them think it would work for this movie. It seemed more like a cop-out than a brilliant idea.
I understand that the characters are a commentary on the two-faced nature of people. Even though that is the purpose of the characters, they didn't stir up enough emotion in me for me to care about any of them...A poor attempt at nihilism, maybe?
To top it all off, this movie is far too long and has a half-assed predictable ending. Ten minutes would have been too long for this movie, let alone three hours. While watching this film, I drank a lot of wine, in hopes that it would improve my interest in the film. I wouldn't recommend this movie to my worst enemy!
Noon o Goldoon (1996)
Spectacular!
There is absolutely nothing bad I can say about this film. I was lucky enough to attend a screening of this gem last night at the Alamo Drafthouse. The show was nearly sold out, for good reason.
This film is about a real life experience that Mohsen Makhmalbaf had at the age of seventeen. When he was seventeen, he stabbed a police man while participating in a demonstration. He was imprisoned for five years. Twenty years after this event took place, he has made amends with the policeman he stabbed and is now making a film about this incident.
The film is a work of art. It is beautifully shot, with no over the top camera work and editing. The film is masterfully directed and it is very humanistic. This film will probably prove to be one if the most important films in the history of cinema, especially to Iranian filmmakers. I would recommend this film to any and everybody.
Ta'm e guilass (1997)
Such a touching film
I watched the Criterion DVD a few days ago and I thought this film was incredible. It's amazing to me that such an incredible film could be made without the use of tracking shots, multiple camera angles, tilts, pans, and all the other camera techniques that most countries use in their films.
Iran has a very young film industry that doesn't have the money or resources that many other film industries have. For what the Iranian film industry has at its disposal, this film is an exceptional achievement!
This film is a great example of how the expression of human beings' feelings and ideas cannot be held back by censorship. Kudos to Kiarostami for creating a very heartfelt commentary on the effects of oppression on the human soul.
Naked Lunch (1991)
If you've done as many drugs as I have, this film makes perfect sense!
The key to understanding this film is simple: It's a really intense drug trip. When a person goes an intense trip like that, everything makes sense, but as soon as they come down, that can't make sense out of most of the previous night's experience. If you go into this film with that idea in mind, then this film makes a lot of sense. If you're no stranger to drugs, then this film makes perfect sense.
Some have described this film as pretentious, but believe me it is not pretentious at all, in fact, it is a great representation of how the intoxicated mind functions. When people are on a heavy amount of drugs, especially LSD, methamphetamines, mushrooms, and other hallucinogens, reality does not disappear, it just takes on a new form. When a character in this film is on drugs, they experience that altered reality. Another aspect of this film that makes it exceptional is David Cronenberg's directing abilities. This film had to be a challenge to direct since the story doesn't have a lot of basis in our natural reality, but Cronenberg did a fabulous job on it.
One thing to remember when going into this film, is that it is not plot driven. Attempt to understand the storyline, but remember that reality, in this film, is not what we're used to in our everyday lives. Reality is given to us in the form of a mind-expanding substance. Enjoy the ride, but keep some thorazine or xanax handy, just in case.
Vargtimmen (1968)
One of my favorite Bergman films
It seems as though everything Ingmar Bergman touches turns to gold. VARGTIMMEN is is no exception. Beautifully directed and truly frightening.
The acting is also incredible. Liv Ullman and the larger than life Max Von Sydow give wonderful performances as does the supporting cast.
This film is the epitome of gothic horror, with that Ingmar Bergman flare that seems to make all of his films a religious experience for film buffs around the world. Bergman is one of the greatest film directors who ever lived and this film helps prove it.It's great for established Bergman fans and is accesible enough for those who are interested in Bergman's work. Highly recommended!
Salò o le 120 giornate di Sodoma (1975)
Black humor at its finest!
A friend and I went to a screening of this film last night. Because of reviews I had read I expected this film to be the very spawn of Hell, because most of the reviews described this film as not only disturbing, but many of them said that it was the most atrocious film they had ever seen.
Indeed, this film is disturbing, mostly because similar tortures are still carried out today, under fascist regimes; when absolute power is given to one person, or a small group of people, carries the danger of absolute corruption. Through absolute corruption, the depths of evil are endless. This is the true message of both Pasolini's film and the Marquis De Sade's novel. And like the Marquis De Sade, Pasolini chooses satire as his vehicle to convey this message.
Upon viewing this film, both my friend and I agreed that the film was more of a black comedy than a heavy drama. We found the performances to be, thematically, comedic. Also the ridiculousness of many of the stories and situations lead us to view this film as a rather vicious satire. This film does succeed in being a masterpiece, because despite the fact that this film is a comedy, Pasolini's anti-fascist (and Sade's anti-libertine) message is not lost. In fact, I believe that the film was truly made in the spirit of the Marquis De Sade: the ultimate goal being making the libertines look like not only the sheer embodiment of evil, but to also paint a picture of the libertine's foolish behavior. The victims are treated like animals, but the libertines are really the animals.
Through careful analysis of this film and the Marquis De Sade's Novel, I can conclude that both the film is indeed a masterpiece of the most twisted nature. It is truly a valid film. Whether the viewer sees this film as a heavy, oppressive drama, or as a hideous burlesque, one thing is for certain, this film is a strong statement against absolute power.
The Vanishing (1993)
OK but not as good as the original.
I just finished watching this film. It's a lot like the original except for inferior performances and a stupid ending. This film is one of those instances when a perfectly good foreign film is remade in the U.S., with inferior results, for illiterate Americans who refuse to read subtitles. I didn't particularly dislike this movie until the original, and far more chilling, ending was demolished to make way for the typical Hollywood action movie ending (which doesn't fit in with this film at all). Take my advice and watch the original instead of this one.
Snuff (1975)
Really silly 70s flashback.
OK first of all, if you watch this movie because you are expecting a real snuff film (or at least a realistic looking fake), you will be greatly disappointed.
First of all, there's no record of an actual snuff film being made. The fact that there is a DVD of this film available should tell you right away there's no way that it could be real snuff. If snuff exists, it is an extremely well kept secret.
Second, the snuff scene is so fake that I can't believe that anyone actually believed that it was real. You can see exactly how the gore was faked, not to mention the fact that the actress is not very good.
If you watch this film, watch it for the movie preceeding the snuff scene. It is extremely poorly written, directed and acted, but it is so bad that it will make you laugh. My friend and I think that this movie should be called SATAN'S B*TCHES, because it's kinda like CHARLIE'S ANGELS, but the women are evil and their master is Satan (pronounced Suh-TAWN). Rent this one if you just want to see a funny 70s movie.
Big Fish (2003)
The best film I've seen this year!
I saw this film last night and I must say, I thought it was brilliant! This is the best film I've seen in the past year. It was absolutely wonderful from beginning to end.
I can't really think of anything bad to say about this film. The plot was perfect, no part of the story is left open. The acting was fantastic! Albert Finney and Ewan MacGregor both gave Oscar-worthy performances, and the supporting cast also produced strong performances. I think this is Tim Burton's best film to date. I also think this is one of Danny Elfman's best scores.
Definitely DO NOT miss this film. I recommend this film to everyone!
The Last House on the Left (1972)
I must say, I love this film.
I understand why many people find this film to be really disturbing, but I must say, I get a kick out of this film every time I watch it. I absolutely love Krug and his band of psychos.
I will admit the first time I saw this movie it bothered me a little, but after watching it a second and third time, I decided that it was actually rather silly. I must say, I get a kick out such lines as "P*** your pants," and the dreadful '70s score (all written by David Hess, Krug himself).
This movie is a lot of fun if you are a slasher buff that can handle just about anything. It is very graphic, but very entertaining. A classic in the realm of the sick and twisted.
The Stupids (1996)
Surprisingly Side-Splitting
This is one of those movies that nobody wants to see because it looks so stupid. Um, Hello, it's called THE STUPIDS! That is what is so great about this movie, it lives up to its name. It's so stupid that it's hilarious.
The first time I saw this movie I laughed so hard that I cried. In fact, everyone that watched it with me nearly died laughing. It is truly Tom Arnold's shining moment. He is in his element in this movie. It has an atrocious storyline, but it is surprisingly well put together.
This movie takes a big risk, but it is successful in its goal. A Great movie for the whole family to enjoy.
Bijitâ Q (2001)
Twisted?...YES, Disgusting?...YES, Too Much Fun?...OH HELL YES!!!
I LOVE this film! What a vicious satire! I love films that have levels to them and this one does indeed.
This film is not just a poisoned feast for the senses, it is a serious commentary on the direction that reality television could take if we don't stop it now. Takashi Miike is a true visionary. Since Stanley Kubrick, Takashi Miike is the only director to risk it all in order to open the eyes of the world to its own ugliness.
Watch this film with an open mind, and this film will open your eyes. Dig deeper than the disturbing images and you'll find lessons in morality and familial love. I personally think that this film is of great importance, but only those with strong stomachs and open, analytical minds will make it through this beauty.
Ôdishon (1999)
The Little Thriller that Could
Beautiful cinematography, great script, sensational acting, stupendous direction, and some fun little gore scenes, What more can a thriller buff ask for?
This film first got my attention through its enchanting cinematography. The appearance of the film is almost dreamlike. Immediately calming, but deceptively disturbing. Excellent use of color.
The film seems a little slow in its progression, but the build up is well worth the wait. The scariest thing about this film is that it could, conceivably happen in real life.
Anyone who loves a great thriller will love this film.
Blood Freak (1972)
Crackpot cinema at it's best!
I love this movie! It is so bad that it's great! To enjoy this movie you have to have a place in your heart for crackpot cinema (low-budget movies that are so bad that they're good). It's completely unrealistic and so poorly shot that you will laugh until you cry. This movie's just plain fun.
Triumph des Willens (1935)
"I filmed the truth as it was then. Nothing more."-Leni Riefenstahl
I think It's a shame that Leni Riefenstahl was persecuted for her work on this film. The truth is that this documentary (and it is a documentary) is brilliantly filmed. The cinematography is a thing of beauty!
This film is extremely biased, like all propaganda, (and let's not forget that propaganda is not just used to promote support for evil dictators, propaganda is anything that sways our opinions), but at the same time it is a factual, primary source, historical account of life in Nazi Germany.
If you choose to watch this film, think of it as an educational piece rather than an exciting feature film. Eventhough Hitler was a monster, as a public speaker he far surpasses any other world leader I've ever heard speak. If you have questions as to how Hitler persuaded people to jump on his bandwagon, this piece will enlighten you.
The one thing that truly got on my nerves in this film, was that damned Third Reich march music that serves as the score for the film. If you hate marches (i.e. John Phillip Sousa), this could drive you insane.
House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE... but not as good.
The biggest problem with this movie is that there's nothing original about it. A group of kids are on a road trip and they go to the country and run into a family of psychos. HMMMM... sounds just like TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE. In fact, during the whole movie I just kept saying "Oh they already did that in TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE".
The way the movie's shot would've been cool if it were under more professional direction. I saw some cool ideas in the cinematography, but the way it was cut together was not effective. The sequence of the movie is choppy.
I think that if Rob Zombie comes up with his own ideas and takes some lessons in directing, he could be quite successful as a filmmaker in the future.
Feardotcom (2002)
Yet another waste of celluloid.
This movie was a complete waste of time. You'll kick yourself if you waste your time watching this movie. There is absolutely nothing good I can say about this movie. It had a very weak plot, no twists whatsoever. The actors didn't seem to unite as a cast. Also, there is no mystery to who the killer is which never fails to get on my nerves! In my opinion this movie is one of the worst movies ever made!
About Schmidt (2002)
Why was this nominated for an Oscar?
This movie is beyond sappy. I was expecting to see a film that was at least descent (due to its oscar nomination), but I was more than disappointed.
There are two good things I can say about this movie: Jack Nicholson and Kathy Bates. That's it!
The rest of the film seems to be recycled from various movies that are about the golden years. There was nothing original about the story. The direction and cinematography did absolutely nothing for me.
I'd steer clear of this one. Remember, just because it's an oscar nominee doesn't mean it's a great film.
Saimin (1999)
GREAT SUSPENSE FLICK
This movie is SO MUCH FUN to watch! I think this movie is highly underrated. Although it is a little known picture here in our Hollywood (CRAP) dominated US of A, it is an excellent movie.
The plot may seem a little confusing at first, but just wait, I promise it all comes together quite nicely in the end. Miho Kanno's performance as the tortured Yuka Irie is very good. She almost doesn't look like the same person as the film progresses (and not just because of different make up).
This movie builds all the way to the end, and then when you think you're near the end...another twist. The story is original and unique. This is how suspense should be!
HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommended.
Titanic (1997)
More sap than a pine tree!
This movie should have never have been nominated for any Oscars. It is mindless drivel! I wanted to throw things at the screen(but I didn't because it's not the screen's fault that the movie sucked). I will never understand why so many people liked this movie. I saw this movie in the theatre expecting a cinematic triumph, instead, the only emotion it evoked in me was pain because after seeing all that water I really had to pee. It was also painful because the amount of sap in that movie could fill the Hoover Dam.
If I had known how repulsive this movie was before I spent $7 to see it, I would've avoided it altogether.
Begotten (1989)
I couldn't believe my eyes!
I can see how people can go either way on this film. I think if you are a hardcore art film buff and you have a strong stomach, this film is a gem, and personally I loved it (but i was thoroughly disgusted by it as well).
If you mostly watch Hollywood films, or safe horror films (i.e. "Scream", "Thirteen Ghosts"(the new one), "feardotcom", etc.), this film is not for you.
I'd describe this film as brain food. You shouldn't watch this film simply to be entertained because that is not its purpose. It's designed to get your brain working overtime.
There is truly nothing else like this film. Once you watch it, you can never go back. This film WILL change you!
One more thing! DO NOT EAT WHEN YOU WATCH THIS ONE!!!
Blue Velvet (1986)
In dreams I walk with you...
This is one of my favorite films of all time!
The thing I love most about David Lynch is that he pushes your mind to its very edge and just when you think everything is back to normal, he pushes you over the edge. BLUE VELVET does just that.
BLUE VELVET is surrealism at its finest. The cast is brilliant! Dennis Hopper is beyond disturbed, a true cinematic monster! Isabella Rossalini's tortured Dorothy Vallens is both beautiful and tragic. One of Kyle Maclachlan's best performances! The cinematography is in traditional David Lynch form high levels of contrast and eye-popping colors!
If you haven't seen this one yet go pick up a copy today!
Höstsonaten (1978)
Some of the most amazing acting I have ever seen!
I rented this movie and watched it last night and I think this is my new favorite Ingmar Bergman film!
This movie was engrossing from the very beginning. I sat silent through the whole film and I was crying by about the middle of it because it was so moving(and I don't cry during a movie unless it really touches me). Ingrid Bergman is truly a great actress! Infact, the entire cast was incredible! The scenes between the mother and daughter absolutely blew me away I've never seen that kind of emotion acted out to such perfection.
This is one of the few PERFECT movies I have ever seen. I recommend this film whole-heartedly!