LondonOnMyMind Reviews

The Ring (2002)

Atmospheric horror at its best **SPOILERS**

[8/10 · 1 April 2006]

The Ring is not only one of the best horror films in recent years, but also one of the best remakes. Contrary to some truly awful remakes, such as The Fog, The Ring does not drown (no morbid pun intended) in ridiculous back stories and unnecessary characters. Instead, director Gore Verbinski takes the Japanese Ringu and transfers the story's elements to the Western world, without having the narrative lose any of its dread. While Hideo Nakata's original may have presented the fear in a more subtle manner, mostly using the actors' reactions and the imagined rather than seen, Verbinski presents it by way of gloomy, tense cinematography, music that hints at the unexpected horror right around the corner and locales that do not exactly spell out domestic bliss. Simply put, Verbinski is not attempting to translate Ringu; he is adapting the Japanese film in a new way and fully succeeding at conveying its themes of urban loneliness, parental worry and, of course, its supernatural aspects.

Needless to say, I loved the rainy, shadowy atmosphere of Seattle. Had the story been set anywhere else, the menace of the piece would have been lost. The dark weather also adds to the ending, further accentuating Samara's evil intentions.

The acting is good all around. Naomi Watts is great as a serious, rational reporter who has to confront an unbelievable, yet very real danger, all the while protecting her son. Martin Henderson also strikes a chord as a not-quite-grown-up father, whose outlook is also changed by the deadly video tape.

An excellent horror film, made even better by its underlying socio-cultural themes and unique imagery.

8/10

X2 (2003)

A meaningful film and brilliant sequel **SPOILERS AHEAD**

[9/10 · 28 January 2006]

**SPOILERS AHEAD**

X2: X-Men United is one of those sequels that not only continue the narrative of the original film, but also further develop the ties between the characters, making the audience empathize with them. Like the first film, it is a metaphor for society's prejudice. Simply put, this is a film that would be enjoyed by fans of excellent cinema and X-Men comic book fans alike.

The direction, cinematography, choreography of action sequences and the overall style of the film are exquisite. The Nightcrawler's (Alan Cumming) teleportation stunts and Pyro's (Aaron Stanford) fire domination left me breathless. The fight sequences and special effects are a sight to behold, without the overdose of CGI that many new films drown in, showing yet again that a good director and creative vision are essential to the action/adventure and sci-fi genres. The cinematography is rich and colorful, painting a warm picture of safety with interior and exterior shots of Xavier's School for the Gifted and, at the same time, hinting at an ominous mystery with the cold shots of Alkani Lake.

The emotional depth of the piece is exceptional, particularly today, when frequent gratuitous violence in action and sci-fi movies often detracts from any involvement that the audience might have with the characters. The X-Men films draw on universal themes of individualism and isolation, themes that the second film emphasizes even more than the first one. This time around, the Brotherhood and the X-Men must join forces against General Stryker (Brian Cox), who gives nepotism a whole new meaning and is surely one of the most vile characters in recent sci-fi. As with Rogue (Anna Paquin) in the first film, we again have an outsider, Nightcrawler, who finds kindred spirits in Xavier's group of mutants. From internal conflicts to romantic relationships, the world of mutants is parallel to our own world, making the film relatable on many levels.

The acting is again solid. Standouts among the cast are Cumming, whose Nightcrawler is kindness and compassion come to life; Stanford, whose Pyro is a tough, vulnerable and pained human being; and Famke Janssen, whose Jean Grey makes the unimaginable, but inevitable, choice.

I would recommend X2: X-Men United to all film fans. However, it is our world today that needs the lesson this film can teach. No one is all that different from the person next to them. Always look beyond the surface.

9/10

Cry Wolf (2005)

Surprisingly good **CONTAINS SPOILERS**

[7/10 · 25 December 2005]

**SPOILERS AHEAD**

I did not expect much from Cry_Wolf. It pretty much disappeared from theatres a week after its North American release, the pretty-boy-of-the-week cast did not exactly inspire, and there has not been a decent slasher movie since... well, I would say since Anatomie. However, there is always a chance to be pleasantly surprised by a film, which is what I got after seeing this slasher.

I would describe Cry_Wolf as a cross between Gossip and Urban Legend, with some original twists and turns thrown into the mix. The idea of a lie turning into truth is always a good premise for a horror film, and this film exploits its full potential. The fact that I absolutely love horror films that take place in a fancy school such as Westlake Prep only added to my enjoyment; an idyllic setting is perfect for this genre precisely because of the intrusive nature of extraordinary and terrifying events. Here the killer is frightening, their motives are dark and their secret is sinister. The ending is excellent and unexpected. I do not think the film would have been the same with a happy, neatly wrapped denouement.

Overall, a fun little slasher, with decent acting and a good story.

7/10

Derailed (I) (2005)

Great story and casting, but a richer plot would have been a nice touch **POSSIBLE SPOILERS**

[4 December 2005]

"Derailed" is a film I have thoroughly enjoyed. It is not a perfect film by any means, but it is a good psychological thrill ride, with some unexpected moments.

Even though certain elements of the story have been seen before, the film works, thanks to the very appealing international cast and numerous twists. The only minus, in my opinion, is the occasional impression I had of unfinished plot points. I have not read James Siegel's novel yet but, as with many other adaptations, I would say that the film suffers from what can be called the "plot decline" syndrome; in other words, the original literary plot and characterizations often prove to be richer than their screen renditions, and such seems to be the case with "Derailed". Without being familiar with the book, I would say that deepening the relationship between the characters of Charles and Deanna and examining the LaRoche-Lucinda-Charles triangle further would have elevated the film to another level.

As for the cast, Clive Owen is convincing as a beleaguered average Joe, while Jennifer Aniston does a good job in one of her rare (so far) dramatic roles, being subtle, yet seductive and manipulative. However, it is the awesome Vincent Cassel who is a stand-out among the cast. I discovered him through this film, and I have to say that the man has incredible talent, intensity and charisma. His LaRoche is violent, cruel, unscrupulous and easily the most captivating character in the film.

Overall, "Derailed" could have been even braver and more layered in its explorations of adultery and the characters' relationships. Still, it is a film that one can lose oneself in and appreciate as a suspenseful cinema experience, with some excellent performances.

8/10

High Tension (2003)

Not a pretty sight -- **POSSIBLE SPOILERS**

[7/10 · 23 October 2005]

As a horror film fan, I have wanted to see "High Tension" for a while, ever since I saw the delectably violent trailer and clips. It does not disappoint in the gory violence department, but I found it to be too short, with an abrupt ending. Still, the film is a haunting exploration of the darkest corners of the human psyche; a portrait that doubles, or maybe masquerades, as a slasher.

Cécile De France is good in the role of Marie, showing grit, nerve and, dare I say, tension when the role calls for it. Maïwenn Le Besco is also good as Alex, although her role does not demand much from her, except for a few scenes of considerable emotional range.

Two of the best aspects of the film are its cinematography and music. Cinematographer Maxime Alexandre paints the film in bluish, metallic, detached hues, that contribute to the effects of truly unapologetic on-screen violence. Composer François Eudes' score is an audio picture of disturbed peace and chaos brewing in the idyll of normalcy. Had it not been for these two elements, the film would not have been half as effective.

"High Tension" is not a must-see film by any means, but it is a must for art-house and horror film fans.

7/10

Bewitched (2005)

A cinematic version of a strawberry smoothie

[7/10 · 23 October 2005]

Light, sweet and airy - that description is my three-word opinion on the 2005 version of the classic show "Bewitched". Like a refreshing drink on a hot summer's day, the film provides a dreamy 100-minute escape from reality.

Many critics and regular moviegoers have panned "Bewitched" as a lackluster re-doing of the series, with a bizarre and unnecessary plot. Personally, I thought it was an unexpected and innovative take on the story, particularly in the days of our obsession with all things Hollywood. Nora and Delia Ephron are two of the best romantic comedy writers out there, and their ideas match the original storyline in fun, wit and, above all, imagination, all the while taking it to a new level.

The actors are mostly well cast. Nicole Kidman is brilliant in the leading role. She has proved a long time ago that she can be anyone on screen, playing an unhappily married Victorian woman in "Portrait of a Lady", Virginia Woolf in "The Hours", a turn-of-the-century courtesan in "Moulin Rouge!" and a plethora of other roles. "Bewitched" showcases Kidman's talents as a comedian, showing us a side of her we have rarely seen before. She is radiant in the film, looking like a porcelain doll come to life.

As for the rest of the cast, Will Ferrell was good in his role, although I have never been a fan of his humor and the character was nothing new for him. Michael Caine is the amazing Michael Caine, and Shirley MacLaine is lovable and quirky as Iris Smythson/Endora. Another actor who impressed me was Kristin Chenoweth. Her Maria was a hyper, ultra-Californian blonde, and it was a joy to watch Chenoweth act the nearly cartoonish character with such zest.

I would recommend "Bewitched" to anyone who wants some sunshine on their rainy day.

7/10

Sideways (2004)

Charming quirks in a wine glass

[9/10 · 13 May 2005]

Sideways is one of those offbeat films that you either love or hate. It is a film that either makes you laugh, maybe even cry, at the absurdity of its characters, or makes you want to watch something else, as simple as that. I belong in the former group, on both counts. I love films that describe life and its oddities, those cinematic gems that look at everyday occurrences with just the right touch of philosophy and humor, and Sideways fits the bill perfectly.

Special mentions go to the screenplay and acting. The writing is funny, poignant and clever. The wine discussions provide a perfect line between melancholy and laughter, often providing insights into the characters' fears and doubts.

Impressive is the least of attributes to describe the cast, particularly Paul Giamatti, Thomas Hayden Church and Virginia Madsen. Giamatti's Miles is a depressed, lovelorn mess, who we do not cease to root for; Church's Jack is a child in a man's body, who, with all his fears and screw-ups, still manages to be sympathetic; and Madsen's Maya is a person who looks at the world through curious and observing eyes, enjoying every detail. Maya's monologue about wine is one of the most honest and lyrically beautiful monologues of recent years, delivered in a subtle and elegant manner by Madsen.

Sideways is a charming study of people, happiness and life in general. It lets us take a glimpse at its flawed protagonists and allows us to possibly recognize some of our own feelings in them, all through the wisdom of wine.

9/10

Campfire Tales (1997)

An interesting urban legend collection

[7/10 · 6 May 2005]

Definitely not only for urban legend aficionados, Campfire Tales is an often scary and always fun ride through several popular stories. It is also a film that exceeded the (low) expectations I had. A horror film I had never heard or read about, a straight-to-video release (granted, the latter often presents us with a pleasant surprise, but with horror films nowadays it can be all or nothing), a cast of mostly unknowns... well, I'll leave the math to you.

The film proves to be an entertaining, suspenseful and overall very enjoyable experience. The four stories are well-paced and satisfying. The only one I felt was a little weaker was "The Locket", for the simple reason that it offers almost no explanation for its plot or the characters' actions; however, I still loved the tale, its atmosphere and ending. My favorite one was the third story, "People Can Lick Too" - the suspense in it is not only palpable, but also educational.

I found Campfire Tales to be one of those horror gems one discovers by chance, and then goes on recommending it to everyone.

7/10

Basic Instinct (1992)

An erotic mind game

[8/10 · 1 April 2005]

Basic Instinct is one of the best thrillers to come out of the 1990s. The story and the characters keep you guessing, and the screenplay unfolds in the vein of Hitchcock's best work.

Michael Douglas is always reliable as the battered anti-hero, and George Dzundza provides some good buddy support. Jeanne Tripplehorn is pretty good as the psychiatrist, and the rest of the supporting cast are solid as well.

However, special mention must go to the character of Catherine Tramell. This character is simply one of the best and most original ever written for a woman. Her wit is quick, her sex appeal is undeniable and her love is fierce. Sharon Stone is amazing in the role. She gives an unflinching portrayal of a strong and independent woman, who uses her incredible intelligence and insatiable sexuality to full advantage.

An excellent thriller, made even better by a one-of-a-kind female protagonist.

8/10

Finding Neverland (2004)

See it now!

[10/10 · 31 January 2005]

Finding Neverland is a film not to be missed. The story about author J.M. Barrie, who strikes a friendship with the Llewelyn Davies family and is inspired by them to create the play "Peter Pan", is beauty in cinematic form.

The screenplay is rich and intelligent, concentrating on Barrie's relationship with the Llewelyn Davies family and his marriage with ex-actress Mary (Radha Mitchell), while also emphasizing the infinite value of imagination and creativity. The cinematography is lush, conveying the rustic beauty of early 20th century England - particularly gorgeous are the hues of green, red and gold.

The performances are incredible. Johnny Depp continues to impress with his range, combining the playfulness of a child with the reasoning of an adult in his portrayal of Barrie. Kate Winslet is excellent as a woman guided by the love for her children. Also stirring are Julie Christie's performance as Sylvia's mother and Freddie Highmore's portrayal of Peter, one of the sons.

This film will make you smile, cry and think. It will also make you wonder why such intelligent and visually eloquent films are few and far between. We need them.

10/10

Alien vs. Predator (2004)

A good action movie

[7/10 · 28 January 2005]

I really liked this movie. I thought the action scenes were excellent, and that the creatures looked amazing. One thing I hate is when filmmakers overdo it with CGI effects, as well as when you can actually tell the CGI effects from the rest of the film, and, in AVP, all the creatures looked very organic. I also loved the references to the original movies.

As for the actors, Sanaa Lathan rocks in every movie she makes, and makes for a terrific action heroine. Ewen Bremner was very good as the chemical engineer, and you really sympathized with the guy. The rest of the actors were not given much to do, but they did well with the screenplay.

Overall, a fun movie. I give it a 7/10.

The Crush (1993)

An OK guilty pleasure

[25 October 2004]

"The Crush" is pretty much a movie you watch when there is nothing else on. The suspense is all right, with some original moments. Other than that, the story of obsession, psychosis and jealousy has been done many times before.

Alicia Silverstone makes a good villain. It is too bad she did not get a chance to play a villain in some other movie, she can pull it off. Cary Elwes is believable as a good guy in trouble, and Jennifer Rubin does not have much to do as the requisite girlfriend.

All in all, there is nothing new here, but, if you want to pass a few hours with some casual chills and thrills, then pick this movie.

6/10

Intermission (2003)

Fun, poignant ensemble film

[22 October 2004]

I always look forward to stories in which many lives intersect, as they present an opportunity for vivacious dialogue, great attention to detail, and for gathering talented ensemble casts. "Intermission" takes this opportunity to the max! The script is funny and touching, the jokes are original and unexpected, and the quirky details provide insight to the characters, e.g. Detective Jerry Lynch's music of choice.

The cast deserves a paragraph all their own. Everyone is terrific, particularly Colin Farrell, whose Lehiff is as unpredictable as he is wacky; Cillian Murphy (John), who is a treat as the good guy pining for his girl; and David Wilmot (Oscar) as John's best friend and quite a comic relief.

Excellent film, which makes you cheer and leaves you smiling.

9/10

Gia (1998 TV Movie)

Excellent film and biopic

[9/10 · 21 October 2004]

This film is a poignant story about Gia Carangi, America's first supermodel, who rose to fame in her late teens and died of AIDS at the age of 26.

Angelina Jolie is incredible as Gia. She never holds back, letting emotions fill the screen in every frame. The scene with Gia and her mother in the apartment, as well as the rehab and hospital scenes, are devastating. This is Jolie's best performance to date, IMHO.

The supporting cast is very good, too, particularly Elizabeth Mitchell as Gia's lover Linda, who can only watch helplessly as her girlfriend descends into drug hell, and Mercedes Ruehl as Gia's mother Kathleen, whose influence returns when it is too late.

Excellent drama, made even more tragic by the fact that it is true.

9/10

Taking Lives (2004)

A very good chiller

[23 September 2004]

I would agree with the reviewer who compared this film to "The Silence of the Lambs" (sorry, I cannot remember who it was). Even though the screenplay of the latter had more psychological depth, "Taking Lives" also manages to depict the dynamics of good and evil, and how the two interact and influence one another.

I loved Angelina Jolie's character Ileana and her interactions with the local police officers. Jolie was great in the role, showing us how the character thinks, her unique perception and technique, as well as the emotional rollercoasters Ileana goes through. Also well cast were Ethan Hawke, who seems to be getting better and better roles, and Olivier Martinez, who is a very good and underrated actor.

The atmosphere of the film was also interesting, and the cinematography reminded me of European films at times.

Overall, a good psychological thrill ride. I give it an 8/10.

On the Edge (2001)

Murphy and Rea shine

[23 September 2004]

"On the Edge" is a touching story about people and life. It is too bad it never got a wider release, audiences would have appreciated it.

Cillian Murphy and Stephen Rea make this film. Murphy creates a relatable character with Jonathan, making us genuinely care for him and empathize with his pain. He is a talent to watch. Rea's subtle style of acting is perfect for the role of Dr. Figure. Their scenes together are funny and poignant at the same time. The dialogues between them are very well written, as are the ones between Jonathan and Rachel (the also good Tricia Vessey).

Since I always pay attention to a film's atmosphere, I have to say that I loved the atmosphere and cinematography in "On the Edge". There is a melancholy and earthy quality to the cinematography, which fits perfectly with the film's themes of joy, sorrow and, ultimately, life as the most valuable thing in the universe.

Everyone should see this film for its wonderful message and the acting.

9/10

Gossip (I) (2000)

Wicked and stylish fun

[7/10 · 23 September 2004]

"Gossip" barely got noticed when it was released. This reception was possibly due to the generally slow box office of April 2000, but also to the fact that, at times, the film's style compensates for its lack of substance. Still, the film is a fun way to spend a few hours and the screenplay provides a unique story.

The acting is pretty good, especially from the three leads - Lena Headey (Cathy), James Marsden (Derrick) and Norman Reedus (Travis). I saw Headey in some other films after this one, namely "Face" and "Ripley's Game", and was impressed not only by her emotional range, but also by her mastery of accents. Both Marsden and Reedus are better actors than they are given credit for.

The film's style and locales epitomize what I would personally call 'twenty-first century chic'. The loft is ultra cool, and so is the club. In fact, the film is worth seeing for its locales alone.

Overall, a nice little thriller. I give it a 7/10.

Equilibrium (2002)

Great and underrated

[9/10 · 21 June 2004]

Many people have criticized this film as a rip-off of The Matrix and Fahrenheit 451. I disagree, because, even though there are some ripple effects of the two works, this film stands on its own as a unique vision of a society forbidden to feel.

The acting, especially by Christian Bale, Sean Bean and Emily Watson, is terrific. The gun-kata sequences are unlike any other fight scenes brought to screen, and the Prozium part of the story is also original - watch for the mass drug interval sequence.

However, the best thing about Equilibrium is that the action never overshadows the human element. The two aspects of the film are carefully balanced. We feel for the characters, and cannot even imagine life in a dystopian world that takes away one of the principles of our humanity.

Equilibrium should have got a wider release - it would have been even more amazing on the big screen. I give it a 9/10.

Anatomy (2000)

Good and scary

[7/10 · 21 June 2004]

I liked this film a lot. The actors were great, particularly Potente, who is different in every role; Fürmann, who is also able to play anyone; and Loos, who spices things up (she is also a talented singer - she sings the song "My Truth", heard when one character cranks up the stereo in the lab).

Anatomie is a good horror flick, which pays attention to its characters. It is also very gory at times, and the set design is innovative. It is too bad they had to make a sequel, which is nowhere near the original.

On a side note, two other things definitely worth mentioning. The DVD is not dubbed, which makes for a better experience of the film. Also, make sure to keep watching after the final credits start rolling.

Halloween (1978)

One of the classics

[10/10 · 12 March 2004]

Halloween is one of classic horror films, and a film that inspired countless other slashers. The main reason for its status as a classic is the way it creates a sense of dread using the atmosphere. The story revolves around a maniac killing people, yet there is barely a drop of blood to be found. It is all in the camera work, the eerie score, and the beautifully shot locales.

Personally, I love horror movies that are big on atmosphere. Gore just does not frighten me, and I do not see it as effective in generating scares. Halloween and Rosemary's Baby are two of my favorite movies, simply because they rely on the art of filmmaking, rather than gross-out techniques - in very different ways, of course - to provoke fear in the audience.

The Princess and the Warrior (2000)

The most amazing film ever

[10/10 · 4 March 2004]

If you want to see a film about love, loss, grief and destiny, Der Krieger und die Kaiserin is the film for you. Director Tom Tykwer blends all these elements seamlessly, creating an original vision of humanity that is seldom seen in Hollywood-produced films.

The acting is terrific. Franka Potente makes us sympathize with Sissi's loneliness and the rut she is stuck in. Benno Fürmann has an intense presence on screen, combining passion with extreme vulnerability. The two share great chemistry on screen.

The cinematography and camera work are very unique. All three of Tykwer's films I have seen - Lola rennt, Der Krieger und die Kaiserin and Heaven - show how much he loves aerial shots. There are also some unique shots in this film, which make us feel we are right there with the characters.

This film is a true work of art. I give it a 10/10.

Circus (2000)

A pretty good caper movie

[7/10 · 4 March 2004]

Circus is a good caper flick. It is as unpretentious as its small-time crook characters, and should be treated as such. It is good fun, with some pretty hilarious dialogue.

Janssen and Hannah make a good couple. I have read some reviews that said they were not believable; I disagree. I actually thought they were a cute couple, and that they shared a kind of playful chemistry. The supporting players were also very good, particularly Stormare and Izzard.

Many people have complained about this movie's numerous twists and turns. However, I do not think the outcome would have been the same without them. Also, personally, I like to be surprised.