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merc14
Reviews
Blade Runner (1982)
Harrison Ford Zero; Rutger Hauer 10+
The truly wonderful and under-appreciated talent of Rutger Hauer make this movie worth watching even though you have to suffer through the mawkish wooden acting of Harrison Ford (how did that guy make a movie career!?). Special effects, flying machines, settings, weird little creatures and aliens were totally stolen from the original Star Wars. There was a pretty good story in there but it was hard to sift through all the annoying distractions to get to it. Rutger Hauer was the only actor who projected any kind of meaning into his character. Of course, there's always the possibility that was part of the director's intent. These comments are on the director's cut of the movie so I don't know what the "other" ending is. Also, I've not read the book, so I don't know if that would make a difference.
Rocky Balboa (2006)
Rocco
Just got home from seeing Rocky Balboa. What a great movie. Sylvester Stallone has really redeemed himself as a beloved icon. In his older years he has gained a bittersweet humility and it comes through in Rocky's soul searching answers to Paulie about why he wants to fight again. Those of us in our older years can certainly relate to the melancholy remembrance of the past. Some of us are uplifted by it, like Rocky and his love for Adrian. Some of us are burdened by regret which is expressed so tragically by Paulie. Sly gives a wistful, sweet, and nuanced performance which I can't help thinking comes from the heart of someone who is trying to reclaim his self-respect. Burt Young returns to great form as the caustic Paulie. There are colorful scenes of the street market in Philadelphia, and stay for the credits which has a montage of people running up the famous steps. Go see this movie.