ms_jade_li Reviews

Badland (I) (2019)

Slow-paced, Quality Acting

[8/10 · 31 December 2019]

As I was watching, I thought oh no, this is a "bad-B" movie. I thought this because I'd never seen the main actor, Kevin Makely, before, the type of film seemed "cheap," and the plot was moving very VERY slowly. Then I started thinking this isn't a piece of inferior gunk, it's just different, probably best categorized as an independent film. Once I shifted perspective and took it for what it was, I began to appreciate the quality. The cast does have familiar faces in it (Bruce Dern, Mira Sorvino, Wes Studi, Jeff Fahey.) What it does do is slow the pacing down enough to give the actors time enough to show their stuff.

Now, on to the plot. The main character is a Pinkerton agent, Detective Matthias Breecher, who has been hired by a Senator to hunt down 3 Confederate war criminals from the Civil War. He is a man of great integrity and is committed to the task. The plot revolves around the search for the 3 and his adventures along the way.

Final Portrait (2017)

Puts the Creative Process under the Microscope

[8/10 · 20 September 2018]

I've got 4 main sources for movies now, other than going to a theater: 1) netflix streaming; 2) netflix discs; 3) the library; and 4) Family Video. I try to obtain through free sources first. This was one I requisitioned from #2. I think I found it through looking for Armie Hammer movies. The plot sounded intriguing, but there was some apprehension that the subject matter would be a little dry. Final Portrait, although certainly not an action movie or thriller, had plenty happening with the talented ensemble.

Where do I begin with what shaped up to be a first class film?

First and foremost, is there any denying that Armie Hammer (playing James Lord, a real life art-lover and model for the 'final portrait' painted by Alberto Giacometti) has the perfect male form? Armie plays a relatively minor role, but he is the most active figure in it; mostly coming and going from the studio, where he sits immobile for varying lengths of time, over a number of days, as a model for the master sculptor (and painter.) That said, as the inveterate voyeur that I am, simply watching him move from place to place, as well as the closeup camera shots of that beautiful visage, is a joy to behold. Character James Lord is a rather shallow young man, irritating in that he feels his time is more precious than it is and ends up putting the master under pressure to get the portrait finished.

Next is how Geoffrey Rush channels Alberto Giacometti. I'm not sure if he watched film clips, read biographies, interviewed those who knew Master Giacometti well, or if he pulled him back from the great beyond, but watching Rush, in every aspect of his mannerisms, it was difficult to believe it was acting. Giacometti was an odd duck, an artistic genius who was driven by demons of what may have been a tortured childhood (haven't read much on him up to now) and appears to be in a dissociated state. This state pervades his every waking moment to some degree. At the same time, the wise and alert artist/sage, is lurking in his consciousness, ready to jump out at often perfect moments. Giacometti is driven to do what he does. There are few things in his world that allow the torturers to put down their tools.

The relationship between artist and model is a complex one; watching it unfold is enjoyable. Although artist has the upper hand - the painting won't be created without him! - he is not irresponsible in holding his model captive. I don't want to give away any more about it than that.

The studio in Paris (really filmed in London, but altered with CGI to look like Paris -from imdb) is another star of the show. Most of the film takes place there and it's a work of art in and of itself. The studio is part of a lovely broken down compound where the artist, his wife, and his brother all live.

The supporting cast of his wife, Annette (played by Sylvie Testud); brother, Diego (played by Tony Shalhoub); and girlfriend, Caroline (played by Clemence Poesy) exist within the confines of the compound for the most part and weave a believable world within it. Giacometti is the sun - albeit often a sun in eclipse - upon which they all revolve.

Reading the above, you may get a feeling that Final Portrait is gloom and doom. It isn't. It's very easy to empathize with each of the characters. You will feel Lord's growing anxiety, Giacometti's fatalism, Annette's resignation, Diego's acceptance, and Caroline's awareness of her role in the older artist's life. Many times the players are able to laugh at life and many times the viewer will laugh at the players even when they aren't.

Stanley Tucci directs (his first movie where he directs without acting in it, per imdb).

Rocco (2016)

Rocco Siffredi: Man behind the legend

[9/10 · 1 January 2018]

Up until last night, I'd never heard of Rocco Siffredi. Maybe that's because I don't watch pornography, Italian porn in particular. Last night, after re-watching the final episode of the 3rd season of Peaky Blinders, then deciding not to begin season 4, I browsed netflix for something different. It took at least 15 minutes of indecisiveness before coming across Rocco. The "jacket" is him, standing nude, somewhat like the photo above, but full body, excluding genitalia. Reading the blurb, it says Rocco is, "showcased in this documentary that shadows the legendary performer during his final year in front of the camera." I thought what the heck, this is New Year's Eve, I'm having a few drinks instead of going out and risking car accidents and drunk driving charges, and there should be a fun element to the evening - how do these sound for rationalizations to give myself permission to watch it - so I clicked "play".

The film globe-trots between porn sets in Italy and in parts of California. It is very matter-of-fact about the porn industry, where it appears to want to portray all of the females as happy, well-adjusted, and just jumping for the chance to be pounded in every orifice, slapped around, etc. Likewise the porn producers are all gentlemen, would never think of sampling the merchandise, and have noble ideals when it comes to plot lines, etc. That's a conversation for another day. To watch Rocco, those thoughts must be suspended, like when you watch a Star Wars movie.

The star of the film, and not just because he's hung like a horse, is Rocco. It must be stated here that there are literally only 2 or 3 shots of Rocco's substantial package. Along with globe-trotting porn sets, it intersperses business with the human being behind the legend. Rocco the husband, the father, the son. His remembrances from childhood that certainly contributed to the career line he chose for himself and has continued until recently. What is impossible to ignore is the humanity behind the appendage. Rocco's personality is what makes him the star that he is.

The latter part of the documentary focuses on Rocco's decision to stop making porn movies and who he wants starring with him in his final film. Kelly Stafford, from England, is the chosen one. There's a very interesting discussion that takes place on the road trip with Rocco, his cousin, Gabriele Galeta, who is Rocco's cousin/best friend/director/cameraman, and Kelly on the way to the studio about dominance, submissiveness, etc.

There isn't a lot of nudity in Rocco. There are tastefully edited scenes around the porn itself, and I don't remember much, if any, swearing. You might say why watch a movie about a porn star if none of these things are in it? Why? Because Rocco is in almost every shot and Rocco is a God. Or, if not a God, at minimum he's a fallen angel.

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (2017)

Charlie Hunnam Perfect as King Arthur

[8/10 · 26 May 2017]

What drew me to the theater to see King Arthur was, hands-down, Charlie Hunnam. I loved the idea of seeing a Jaxian, Raleighsian King Arthur, and I was not disappointed. I loved the gratuitous flesh shot where he took his shirt off after waking up sweat-drenched from a nightmare. That shot alone was worth the price of admission :) King Arthur is more than just a sassy pretty boy doing stunts though. I loved the hero's journey, from his toddlerhood to when he pulls the sword from the stone. I really like the way they show his community connections through his upbringing, developing the character he would need to claim his rightful throne.

Before I wrote this review I was going to say that I thought his fellow rebels were underutilized in King Arthur; however, reading some of the data at this site, I see that a series of 6 films is planned, so there is plenty of time for character development. I really hope they keep the same cast as they are quality. I love the way the mage is portrayed and I love her voice!!!!!!!! There is an exotic, hypnotic quality to it. I loved the shred of humanity they gave to the evil brother/uncle/king. Anyone with the capacity for love cannot be totally evil. Jude Law was realistic in his portrayal of the power-crazed monarch.

The soundtrack of King Arthur is superior throughout and in some scenes is mystically charged. It resonates with the collective unconscious.

Just as magnificent as the soundtrack is the gorgeous terrain! If you love rocks, boulders, bluffs, and vast sweeping landscapes you will fall over sideways seeing it here.

Through much of King Arthur there are grave missions, but the film does capture an admirable amount of levity in the face of gravity.

I've seen some critical comments regarding the end battle scene. I thought it was beautiful and powerful.

Bone Tomahawk (2015)

Kurt Russell in heroic role in Western Horror Cult Classic

[8/10 · 16 March 2016]

I recently saw The Hateful Eight, the latest Tarantino film, a western where Kurt Russell is one (of the 8). Browsing netflix, Kurt looking western again caught my eye, as did the title. Not really a fan of horror movies, I chose, Bone Tomahawk with some trepidation. However, knowing Kurt's filmography and reputation for quality films, I figured how graphic could it get.

That said I was thrown somewhat off balance by several aspects of the film, but it's not a bad thing. First I noticed how quiet it was. There were no distracting soundtracks or sound effects other than natural sounds. This gives amplification to ordinary sounds. Kurt smacking his lips while sipping hot corn chowder. The bed creaking as a man has a lovemaking session with his wife. The piano player at his piano not playing. The clop clop of the horses walking. The quietness brings life to the dialogue. You listen to what is being said.

Another thing I noticed is that there are no "red shirts" in this film. Everyone is important. At first, as the posse was headed out to rescue the hostages, the characters made comments that had me believing, OK this guy's going to be picked off first. Instead of the usual predictability of "the evil" picking people off one by one, the folks in the posse actually had conversation and got to know each other. For horror movies, this is highly unusual. It took a little shift in perspective to roll with it.

One point of aggravation for me was the guy with the injured leg. I winced and grimaced right along with him. He did a good job of setting up dynamic tension under the general tension of wondering if their rescue would be successful and when evil would show its face.

Another area where this film is non-formulaic is in its quantity and variety of gruesomeness. What it lacked in quantity it made up for in gruesomeness. I had to avert my eyes in a couple of places.

Now to get to Kurt Russell's heroism. He's a small town sheriff but he's fearless every step of the way, from when the stranger who "buried something out under the tree" is confronted in the tavern, to the very end (no spoilers here). He's everyone's ideal of what a sheriff should be. He's fearless. He's fair. He's good to his wife. He's kind to his kinsmen. And he's not going to stop until he saves the imprisoned townsfolk.

Bone Tomahawk is not your run of the mill film. It is extraordinary in several ways.

Hateship Loveship (2013)

Something So Satisfying

[10/10 · 5 March 2016]

There are many aspects to Hateship Loveship lay a groundwork of excellence even before you look at the first frame. Guy Pearce is who drew me to choose it through netflix, as I've never seen a movie of his I didn't like and list him at the top of my charts for fine actors. That said, it was only when I got the disc going that I saw the movie is based on an Alice Munro short story, and she's a fine author with powerful themes. Exceptional supporting cast members Jennifer Jason Leigh and Nick Nolte sealed the deal in knowing there was a better than average chance that this heretofore unheard of cinema would be an enriching experience in watching. It was only after getting to the end of the film that I realize how often dynamic tension that is created in plots leads to some anxiety-producing situation that oftentimes ends in disappointment. To get to the end of Hateship Loveship without that happening was so satisfying!

That said, Kristen Wiig had me hooked from the opening scene. She is the central figure upon which the plot revolves and she maintains that centrism throughout. Her awkwardness is almost palpable and elicited a pain in my own heart as I watched her stoically navigate through a world where she is an invisible accessory that makes life easier for those around her. It is only when she becomes visible that she becomes vulnerable. There is the heart of a champion that waits within, and it is when an eye sees her that it begins beating.

Guy Pearce plays his character flawlessly. The son in-law on eggshells around his father in-law. The father who wants to be whole with his daughter again. The cokehead who is caught between two worlds. The halfassed boyfriend of another cokehead. The man who is suddenly caught in the spotlight of an affection-starved oddball.

What happens from the time the spotlight begins shining cannot be forgotten. Love's heartbeat begins the world anew for all. To watch makes me feel almost like an aesthete voyeur, privileged.

This film is a keeper and will be watched many times. Thank you to all involved in the making of it.

Pandorum (2009)

Gut-wrenching fear throughout the entire movie!

[10/10 · 4 April 2015]

Pandorum kept me on the edge of my seat, in gut-wrenching fear throughout. The lead actor, Ben Foster, plays a character who, likewise, is terrified through most of the film as well. What I love so much about Pandorum is that Ben's character refuses to be paralyzed with fear and keeps pushing forward and survives myriad horrific circumstances despite his fear. I love what he does with the role.

Pandorum is *not* for the faint-hearted. You'll see things that may haunt you for days afterward.

The plot is *solid*. The cinematography and special effects are top-notch. Fight sequences are tight.

The quality of this film cannot be overrated. If you like space movies, thrillers, survivalism, and seeing humans pushed to the limits, I guarantee you will love Pandorum. It's of the same caliber as Alien, Prometheus, and Predator.

Part of the information on Pandorum with IMDb says there are supposed to be sequels but it is doubtful they will be made. I really hope sequels are made.

Bottle Shock (2008)

You don't have to be a wine expert to enjoy Bottle Shock

[8/10 · 29 November 2014]

Bottle Shock is, on the surface, about a blind wine-tasting competition, held in France, where California and French nectared offerings of the vine are vying for top marks from le creme de la crop of French wine aficionados. What captivated however is the intoxicating depth of the connections between the players and what motivates each of them. There's the connection between the non-French businessmen in France. There's the connection between father and son. Between the vintners in CA who are tired of being red-headed stepchildren in the world of wine, like the rest of the world, in comparison with French wine. Between Mexican vintner whose love of the art is ancestral and imbibed with passion and the rich man who is playing at it -- albeit playing hard. Between the non-committed but committed intern and the heads she turns. Motivations traverse the gamut, from purely business to a search for significance. There's a dry humour throughout and a collective heart that squeezes tears. The competition is based on a true story, which adds depth upon depth.

The Paperboy (2012)

I bet The Paperboy is one helluva novel if the movie is this good

[8/10 · 24 November 2013]

A netflix pick, The Paperboy's very brief synopsis was long enough to have me choosing it yet it was too brief to indicate the depravity of it. Do not -- I repeat, DO NOT -- watch this movie if you are squeamish about brief scenes of graphic violence or what I'll call "alternative sexual practices". The plot is riveting. The construction of the plot is unusual. The acting ensemble is the best I've seen in awhile, and each one impeccably delivers. Cusack is in his creepiest role to date. When Kidman and Efron are in a scene you won't be able to decide who looks more devastatingly gorgeous. The Paperboy reminds me of an old Paul Newman film (generically speaking) yet its distinctly in a class by itself. Again beware that it has some disturbing scenes that won't be easy to shake loose once you've seen them.

Be Here to Love Me (2004)

Listen to the lyrics and hear Townes' soul speak

[10/10 · 24 November 2013]

I would encourage anyone who is a fan of Townes' music watch this. Townes Van Zandt was a man of deep and complex character. He spoke his soul through his lyrics. I can't help but wonder, throughout watching the clips of Townes himself and those left behind and their recollections, if anyone really "got" Townes. He literally sacrificed his health, his family, and ultimately his life trying to be heard.

The scenes with Townes' wives and children were the most touching. Looking into the great black pools of Townes' eyes, it's easy to see how those around him would be mesmerized and want to be near him. The film also handled the less glamorous side of Townes' life with grace.

It's clear that Townes rejected the privileged lifestyle of his family and sought the real gold, that which touches the humanity in each of us, which he did so well through his music.

Django Unchained (2012)

Slave Days Western Love Story

[10/10 · 28 December 2012]

What takes a film from being great to being a masterpiece are the details. Being meticulous with the details is a Tarantino trademark. Does it mean all of his films reach the level of masterpiece? Probably. With Django Unchained he's wrapped a gilded frame around it.

There's been much hype about the soundtrack on facebook. If anything tarnishes the gild, 'tis this. It doesn't pound and it doesn't disappear; nor does it complement, which is a pity as it could have been that much more spectacular. It's a vague distraction more than anything.

It takes courage to watch Django Unchained. What happens in it is usually reserved for the deep recesses of our minds. I'm still reeling from the intensity. Such feeling couldn't have been evoked without the SUPERB acting on each person's part. Without flawless performances by all there would have been a crack in the mirror.

Prime Evil (1988)

better than bad bad b horror

[6/10 · 12 February 2012]

"Prime Evil" came in a boxed set of bad "b" movies. The hope was that it would be at minimum watchable. It met those expectations. The plot was complicated enough, and the format was such that it succeeded in building suspense. This is a horror movie without too much horror, and it is presented without any gratuitous violence. I liked the tale told from a feminine perspective. The reality is that, similar to "Rosemary's Baby", it is a tale that could actually be. That perhaps is where the horror creeps in, in retrospect. The cast was decent and had skills beyond that of your typical bad "b" film. Was I glad I watched it? Yes. Would I watch it again? Probably.

The Woman (I) (2011)

Patriarchy and feminism in their extremes

[9/10 · 10 June 2011]

The Woman tells the tale of a feral woman who is captured by, at least on the surface, a traditional family man who is an attorney in a solo practice. As the movie proceeds, it is clear that the man's patriarchy goes way beyond, into that of a power-crazed maniac. The tension is palpable between the man and his captured trophy as her presence in the lives of the family members affects each differently. Be prepared for shocking and intense graphic violence and plot twists you would never expect. Not for the squeamish. The story is compelling and so are the characters in this study of human nature.

The acting is practiced and believable. The writers have a good handle on the dynamics of domestic violence. I see this film as exemplifying domestic violence taken to its furthest extreme. How domestic violence perpetuates itself through the generations can be seen in the distance.

I like the way The Woman is the central character of the film while at the same time being incidental to the drama unfolding within the family unit.

Outcast (2010)

Irish Witchcraft 101

[8/10 · 20 January 2011]

The tale is outlined at first, then fleshed out. There is skillful employment of ambiguity. There is no formulaic plot here, although you know at the end there is going to be a showdown of one sort or another. Outcast has a dual meaning. There are disturbing elements of graphic violence, although they are strategic and never gratuitous. The review is dubbed as it is as the practices of the characters would appear to be those used in the fundamentals used in real witchcraft.

The acting is solid.

As others who have reviewed "Outcast" have noted, the film is not only about supernatural practices; there are cultural and age aspects to it as well. Cultural includes capturing the feel of the high rise projects (i.e. estates) and the busybody social workers that come with them. There are the tensions connected with melting pot clashes. Age aspects have young adults trying to find resonance with other young adults. A subject also breached is that of adults with developmental and cognitive impairments and differing views of where they fit into a culture.

Aside from plot attributes, "Outcast" is a spell-binding (no pun intended) story that I felt compelled to watch until the end. Hoping to see more by this director soon!

Two Lovers (2008)

A Jewish Movie that Non-Jews Can Relate to and Learn From **POSSIBLE SPOILERS**

[8/10 · 8 April 2009]

Firstly, I'm not Jewish. However, not being Jewish and not knowing many Jewish people (I live in a small town. I get my knowledge of Jewish folks from movies!), I think this movie is a template for what might happen with many Jewish families. Without saying anymore about the plot, I would like to say a few words about the characters and the character development and perhaps a few other things.

Joaquin Phoenix has screen presence and star power and even has acting ability, but I think he was wrong for this role. Not wrong exactly but I'm sure another actor could have done it better. My main issue was wondering if the character was or was not supposed to be a nut case. If the character was supposed to be a little off kilter, then he pulled off the role perfectly. There were a few times when he would suddenly crack a joke but the joke was not funny but more surreal. I liked his character in the very beginning but as the film traveled on the resonance with him was lost.

Gwyneth Paltrow manifests her character with the same finesse she was seen manifesting in The Royal Tenenbaums. Wan. Fragile. There is not the same sense of fixedness here; more a pretty fall leaf that blows into your yard on a cold gray afternoon.

Vinessa Shaw, the "other" female lover Joaquin is torn between, is the demure, trusting, nurturing young woman who knows who she wants and will not be denied says her daddy. Her skin is translucent, the smile that plays around her lips entrances, and her artful use of eyes and head movements is joyful to behold. I would like to see her in more movies!

I about fell over seeing Isabella Rosselini in this movie as Joaquin's mother. She is a damned fine actress and I daresay can master any role that is placed before her. I would love to see Quentin Tarantino do another Jackie Brown-like film and have Isabella in it.

Elias Koteas is another great surprise for this film. Believe it or not, the first film I saw him in was Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in 1990. Since then I've seen him in Look Who's Talking, and a lesser-known film with the name Crash, directed by David Cronenberg, which has a way-different plot than the popular Hollywood piece o' crap! Elias glows in his role here.

This film is a fine piece of work on several levels other than that impressive ensemble who brings it to life. It's a sleeper, where you keep discovering new layers every time you think about it. The relationships between the characters are the stars of the show. Joaquin's relationship with his parents is painfully exquisite.

I like the location of the filming -- where else would it be?! -- and the intimacy of the sets. I'm remembering a soundtrack with classical music, but I may be remembering wrong. It must have been seamless.

Whether you are Jewish, not Jewish but can appreciate films about Jewish people, want to learn a little about New York Jewish folks, or who has ever been in love, lost love, then found it again, with a twist, you will be entertained. Thank you to the director, the actors, the screenwriter, the producer, and everyone else in any way responsible for the creation of this work. Thanks also goes to our local independent movie house for bringing another fine piece of cinema to our berg.

Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired (2008)

You'll have more information on the sex scandal than you did before.

[8/10 · 28 June 2008]

The term documentary implies something based on documents. Facts. The truth. Isn't it funny how often documentaries show documents alright, but just not all of the documents, or maybe purposefully selected documents. Just imagine a documentary about the criminal justice system and its own brand of documentary and your head just might start training for the Olympic swim team and have a shot at a medal.

Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired is a film that HBO bought the rights to and I believe broadcast starting this month (June 2008). I just finished watching it with my younger son. Throughout the viewing, he and I drew very different conclusions, not only from the events that were described but how we felt about what we were seeing. It is no surprise at all, as a person's biopsychosocial context throws prismatic paint onto our perspectual lenses.

Do I want to climb up on the soapbox and proclaim what I saw is the right way to see it? Maybe the urge is there. Will I curb the urge? Probably.

What transpired for Mr. Polanski over the media and court coverage of an incident in 1977 of, at minimum, statutory criminal sexual conduct by a 43 year-old Roman and a 13 year-old child whose mother aspired to stardom and whose daughter was OK with posing in nude photos, is carefully constructed by the creator of the documentary. Just as the artist chooses brushes and colors for their painting; just as the perceiver filters databytes into a pattern that makes sense, so too does the documentarian in this work.

Is it the case with every documentary? We will save that discussion for another day. I will leave it to the viewer to draw their own conclusions. Whatever you see, please watch this rendering of history. It's worth your time.

No Country for Old Men (2007)

Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem are the stars of this film.

[9/10 · 4 January 2008]

I wasn't sure what to expect with this movie. All I heard was it had Tommy Lee Jones in it and was about a cowboy. When a friend mentioned she wanted to see it I took a quick gander at a plot summary that didn't give away any secrets. I had seen no trailers. You'd be better off not doing either either.

Tommy Lee Jones plays a small but powerful role. Woody Harrelson is exceptional. There are two real stars in this movie, but they aren't the two illustrious names above. I refuse to give away any of the plot, but Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem each have stage presence that unequivocally portend their presence upon many more screens in the future. Mark my words! If you've seen any Coen brothers' directed movies you know that they can be ...... intense. This one is no exception. The plot twists and turns like a dragonfly on a hot day, and it is with delicious anticipation that one sits in their seat wondering what's going to happen next. Stay away from this movie if you're not into graphic violence.

There is a philosophical aspect to the movie that I chose not to explore on my first viewing of it. Think "Unforgiven" with a Coen Brothers twist.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Depp animates a tragic hero yet again

[9/10 · 23 December 2007]

A few words about Tim Burton's production of what has been performed as live theatrical performance up until now (as far as I know there hasn't been a movie made of it previously). Fans of Burton's admirable ability to capture a tragic hero's quest for finding a niche in a cruel world -- a world that has no understanding, and less tolerance, for misfits -- will not be disappointed in Sweeney Todd.

Where there is a possibility that live performers have captured the torment of Sweeney, it is certain that Johnny Depp succeeds. He exudes torment. He is a man driven. Obsessed even. He brings Sweeney, a man who is, in all spiritual respects a walking corpse, to life. He's a man who has been driven to madness by the cruelty of human nature turned against him, yet manages to keep enough wits about himself to wreak a considerable amount of payback.

The rest of the cast shows no flaw. A short but sweet cameo by Sasha Baron Cohen, is the only splash of color other than red in the dreariness of the geographical and human landscape. The young lad who gets drawn into the madness looks like he will have an acting career ahead of him. Helena Bonham Carter, Tim Burton's long-term partner, has nailed her role as the consummately common baker of meat pies, expert roach smasher, and unrequited lover. Alan Rickman plays the perverse villain with his usual flair. I like the closeups of his face, which is gathering even more character, believe it or not, as he ages. His loyal, sneering manservant (sorry his name escapes me, but he plays a similar minion in Enchanted) adds his talents to the mix. The naives playing the roles of sailor and ward are sweet and innocent pawns unwittingly drawn in as well.

Expect lots of blood and some rather graphic violence as the bodies hit the floor.

Expect to be surprised by the pleasant sounds of Depp and Bonham-Carter's voices.

Hideous! (1997)

Think puppet masters with a smaller budget but with more class.

[8/10 · 13 February 2007]

The acting is over the top but good! It was made in a Romanian castle, and that's got to count for something.

The critters are, well, hideous!, but they are more.

You may get the urge to vomit during certain scenes -- one scene in particular! -- but have a pail handy and take a risk by watching it anyway.

Let me get back to the cast. Bravo on the casting, and double bravo on the chemistry between them.

The ending is a little weak, like the production ran out of money at the end, which is too bad.

Eaten Alive (1976)

You'll laugh with glee right along with the maniac!

[7/10 · 11 February 2007]

I bought this DVD at the grocery store, in the 5 for $5 bin. Never did I expect to like this movie as much as I did. Neville Brand is the maniac dude who runs the hotel. Neville played a cowboy on an old TV series, High Chapparal.

There are frightening surprises beyond the standard stuff in this movie. Part of it involves a whorehouse and part involves a father searching for his little girl. The lodgers at the hotel can be as freaky as the maniac that runs it.

The soundtrack and the set are both unnerving.

This is no ordinary grade B horror flick. If you can rent it cheap, watch it.

Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

Fantasy Horror set in historical context. Excellent film-making.

[9/10 · 11 February 2007]

We went to see it last night, late showing. The theater was sparsely populated, and we had the best seats in the house with no effort. We'd snuck bottles of pop in. I had a coupon for a medium bag of popcorn, and my boyfriend got another bag, as well as some Reese's pieces.

We were all set to be entertained and perhaps frightened a little. Our local paper and a few online synopses characterized the film as horror rather than fantasy. Pan's Labyrinth can easily fit into either/both genre(s).

The film is set in 1944 Spain, and was written and produced by a Spaniard, Guillermo del Toro. The language is Spanish, with English subtitles. The scenery, including magical sunlight, is distinctly southern European. The myriad shadows in the film are also striking.

The cast of PL is impressive! The actors are unknowns to me, but I haven't seen many Spanish films, so it's no surprise. The character development for several of the characters is also impressive. I will leave it to you to decide whether there is a dichotomy between good and evil or whether what you see in them shows light and shadow depending on which perspective you're taking...

The plot follows that of a classic fairy tale. The special effects have been meticulously manifested, and you'll believe them when you see them. The sets are likewise impressive. You should not wait to see this film as a video rental. It cannot be fully appreciated unless seen on the big screen.

One thing that stands out for me in Pan's Labyrinth is the non-hysterical response of the heroes in the film to magic, where the most gruesome human character responds to it with panic. It's a calming change of pace to not see people freak out when "magic" shows itself to the ordinary person.

Intermission (2003)

IRISH Movie-making by first-time director, John Crowley

[8/10 · 6 August 2006]

One of the advantages of having enough cable channels to be able to see films that may not have made it to your local movie theaters is that you get to watch movies like Intermission. Don't ask me what intermission means for the plot. You won't want to take one while watching it, that's for sure. A lot happens and the plot jumps. What a pleasant change to watch someone on the screen who is not a humongoid ego crazed nutjob.

Its very strength could also be construed as a shadow weakness in that it's almost too Americanized for comfort in the way its presented. Just watch it and see if you understand what I mean.

I will give it KUDOS for presenting the actors as speaking the native tongue with enough clarity to be understood by Americans but with enough of the native brogue to keep it interesting. None of this sanitizing of the slang to the point of nausea business.

When I read the description in the movie preview guide I was thinking it was another bumbling criminals bumble yet again and in the process you get a few yuks. Wrong. Intermission is more about the absurdity of human relationships that you can either laugh at or cry at.

The movie's hopscotching plot is quaint and endearing yet downright bold. There is more than a fair amount of hilarity to it. You'll laugh your ass off if the type of humor is your type of humor.

The director is talented. Amazing that this is his first movie.

Intermission is an entertaining and heartwarming piece of work from across the Atlantic.

Jackie Brown (1997)

kill bills and pulp fiction step aside -- Jackie Brown is in town!

[10/10 · 15 June 2006]

Jackie Brown -- the character and the movie -- RULES.

I'd seen several of the Tarantino movies and liked almost all of them and love at least a few. For some reason I'd never seen JB. Discussing the merits and demerits of Kill Bill (I say 2 yeahs and guy at work sez 1 sucks and 2 is better) and the guy asks me if I've seen it. I say no. He sez I should. It's taken me 2-3 years to do it, but DAYUM, I'm glad I did.

Jackie the character has it all: looks, brains, charm, sass, and a survival instinct that makes all women want to stand up and say yes! Pam Grier has been SERIOUSLY UNDERUTILIZED in the acting world. WHY? Tarantino does an extraordinary job of directing JB. I'd like to give the man a great big kiss for the way he has portrayed Jackie. No slack for her. No apologies. No exaggerations. She is what most women are or could be if only men would just leave us alone. But men don't leave us alone. They own everything and control everything -- except the pussy -- so we are forced to deal with them. I applaud Tarantino for having the balls to acknowledge what's beautiful about women.

The cast of JB is extraordinarily kickass. It's a nice change to see DeNiro play something other than a leading role! Don't get me wrong though, he's awesome in what he does. Samuel L Jackson blows me away in this movie. It's hard to describe how he captures the essence of the character he portrays, but he has subtantial acting skills. Jackson's little blond surfer girl -- Bridgette Fonda -- is perfect for her role. Michael Keaton has only a bit part and seems like a weak link in an otherwise titanic strength chain. Maybe it was him or maybe it was his slimy character though...

The real star of this movie, however, has to be Robert Forster, who plays a bail bondsman who gets drawn into the plot of the movie. What the hell? I never would have thought he was capable of doing what he does in this movie. Kudos to Mr. Forster and to Mr. Tarantino for his abililty to see what Forster can do and giving him a chance to do it.

Is there anything left to say? I don't know. Oh yeah .................. SEE THIS MOVIE!

Big Bad Love (2001)

freeform, poetic, tragic, real

[8/10 · 14 April 2006]

Did not see the first part of the movie, but the cable guy showed up and restored my IFC and this movie was playing.

The 4 word title describes it well. For those who appreciate poeticism and an only loosely linear plot line that serves as a framework for larger things, then you will enjoy this movie.

Thank you to those who made the film for choosing acting ability and realism over rigid and sterile glamor. It's hard to explain what I mean by that, but the actors and the settings pull the viewer into the story. You feel like you're the person with the cameras -- your eyes -- acting as a shadow to the protagonist's life. You feel privileged to be witness and to allow the emotions the characters feel wash through and into you.

The passages of prose read throughout the movie blur the line that often demarks the transforming of a novel into a film. I'm not even sure if it was a book first, and if it wasn't, it had the feel of it.

The liner notes on the IFC info screen on the TV said that Arliss Howard, the protagonist, and Debra Winger, the female lead, are married, and Arliss also directed.

Wonderful acting. Great locations. Well edited. Have Kleenex handy.

Broken Flowers (2005)

Blue in Pink

[8/10 · 20 February 2006]

I watched Broken Flowers last night. Bill Murray stars. Jim Jarmusch directs. If those 2 facts don't have you running to rent the video, I don't know what will.

For fans of Bill Murray, you can't help but be captivated by him, whether he is doing his deadpan humor or deadpan drama or if he's doing spontaneous brilliant reparte'. Oh and his ability to relate to children at their level. He's one of the few actors I've seen who can command the screen when he shares it with an adorable child. The man has it all.

Bill had a hit with Lost in Translation, but I believe LIT may have been a bit too cerebral for many to appreciate. Next came Wes Anderson-directed, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. Murray was in exquisite human form as the Cousteau-esquire character he portrayed. If you haven't seen Steve Zissou yet -- see it.

In Broken Flowers, Bill plays a jaded romeo who can't quite figure out why his life feels so empty. Thank jayzus for good neighbors who won't take no for an answer. The character, whose name is Don Johnston (no, that's JohnsTon, with a T), begins a quest-like adventure that takes him here and there, although you never know exactly where here and there are. They are anytowns. The characters he encounters are anycharacters too; yet director Jim Jarmusch doesn't disappoint in showing each ordinary character as memorable. Through the director's vision, as seen through Bill Murray's eyes, you see how these characters are lovable -- which makes you wonder why Don didn't -- love them, that is.

The supportive cast is OK, and I think it may have been Jarmusch' intent to keep things low-key. I'm sure there are subtleties in their responses that will be picked up better upon repeat viewings.

The film is hilarious throughout. Rent it for laughs alone if the philosophical part isn't your thing.

The DVD special features are worth a look.