benturkalj Reviews

House M.D. (2004–2012)

Best medical drama in years

[10/10 · 7 June 2006]

Seriously, if you haven't seen house, your really missing out on one of the more clever, hilarious and compelling medical dramas out there-though it has to be said that this is quite different to the standard fare.

To sum it up, the show is about House and his team of medical 'detectives'. Each week, we are given a major dilemma, with a patient who has some major illness that no one can understand, until the titles character comes through with a solution.

While this may seem like this is a dumb premise, the result is one of the best shows around. Hugh Laurie, who plays the blunt, sarcastic lead character really makes this show shine, and will often have you in stitches with his eccentric approach. The support cast shines as well, and the writing has continued to be of the highest quality since it began. in all cases, the final verdict is always surprising, and there's just enough balance between the leads brilliance and a fine supporting cast. Please, give it a go if you like something above the standard!!!

X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

Actually pretty exciting, if you can get past the comic stuff

[7/10 · 29 May 2006]

OK, so a lot of reviewers are saying that this was pretty sub-standard. In my own view, I would say that it pretty much succeeds in achieving what it aims to do, and I would definitely watch a sequel to it.

Ratner definitely will annoy some comic fans for sure: there are some pretty big deaths that you have to wonder about. I also probably didn't like the way the Phoenix saga was handled here either, but it's not all about comics.

In the end, at least for the most part, everything is well done. The dialogs was fine, and probably better then the other films in some ways. The film never dragged, the effects were well done, and the storyline was reasonably well established.

It certainly could have been done a lot better, but enjoyed this a great deal more then some of the other blockbusters out recently. This is a worthy sequel, so don't hesitate to check it out.

Mission: Impossible (1996)

Very clever thriller

[8/10 · 18 May 2006]

For those who have not seen the original Mission Impossible, it is a real shame. While the other flicks offer plenty of explosions and cool action sequences, the original remains the best for it's interesting plot twists, some decent acting, and a well developed element of suspense that's lacking in the later pictures.

To reveal any of the plot would be a disservice: it certainly has some pretty interesting occurrences that should be seen for full effect. What really makes this great though is De Palma's direction. Unlike the later flicks, key scenes are drawn out: there is a real Spense of suspense that is rarely achieved. Three key action scenes come to mind, and there all extremely cool: it's just a shame that Criuse couldn't enlist the services of more experienced director's later in the franchise.

A memorable, well executed thriller.

Mission: Impossible III (2006)

Reasonable effort, but still forgettable

[6/10 · 18 May 2006]

Mission Impossible three offers a reasonable number of thrills, some great acting from Phillip Seymour Hoffman as usual, a lot of ridiculous running sequences from Tom Cruise, and is fairly fun.

Plotwise, it follows the same conventions pretty much of the second flick: There's an issue with something in the wrong Hands, and a team has to save the day. It offers a fairly decent amount of cool stunts, with some clear references to 'True Lies' and 'Speed'. Strangely though, it was not really the action sequences that I enjoyed the most in this film: any part with Hoffman in it was simply awesome to watch. I really think he carried the movie with his abiities to play a cold blooded killer, though it was a real shame that we didn't see more of it.

Sadly, the film is mostly let down by a ridiculous love story angle, and way too many scenes involving Tom Cruise running like a maniac, but it was still decent entertainment.

I still put this on a par with the second film, and the original definitely wins out over this one because it's sense of suspense. See it for fun, but don't expect too much.

Run Lola Run (1998)

Visually clever film from Germany

[7/10 · 22 January 2006]

Run Lola Run is one of the more interesting experiments to come out of Cinema, using a number of visual effects to keep you watching. As the title suggests, the film is centered around Lola, a spirited red head who's in love with her boyfriend, Manni. Sadly for her, Manni has gotten himself into a great deal of trouble, and she has only twenty minutes to avert disaster.

Although the plot seems simple, it is how it plays out that is really interesting: The story is repeated three times with subtle changes affecting the outcome. Each time it shows how the simplest moments of interaction, (e.g) Running into a woman), can change how an event pans out in less then a second, and it's very entertaining to find out how it ends. Although it may seem boring to show what is often the same events over and over, it is the kinetic visual flair and cinematography that makes it worthwhile, with even animation being used.

Even though it is highly enjoyable, it is still unlikely to be one of those films you can come back to, and apart from this the plot is quite shallow. Also, the tech-no music may seem a bit uninspired for some, but this still succeeds because of it's originality and style. Definitely worth a look.

The Dukes of Hazzard (2005)

What did you really expect?

[5/10 · 18 January 2006]

OK, so dukes isn't going to win any awards for pushing the artform. As a film it's terrible, with close to no storyline and some pretty poor comedy moments. It's also pretty incoherent, and is pretty much like the B-grade show it's based on. So why watch it? Well, it has to be said that the car scenes, which there are quite a few of, are done exceptionally well. It has to be said that some of the stunts they pull off in this movie are amazing, and a lot of fun to watch. Oh, and of corse Jessica Simpson is quite easy on the eyes as well, and this all pretty much sums up what expectations I had for the movie.

So pretty much, if you skip all those filler scenes and watch the car bits and the Jessica bits, you'll have mindless fun.

The Iceman Cometh (1989)

Highlander wishes it was this good

[8/10 · 10 January 2006]

During the eighties, Hong Kong cinema had some of the most enjoyable action films on the planet, and this was one of them.

Basically the plot revolves around two soldiers, one good and one bad, fighting to the death and being frozen in ancient china. They are then thawed out in the eighties, forced to battle once again but now with greater powers.

Although a great deal of the film is based on how the two soldiers react to there new surroundings, with some interesting results, the film is more about the action sequences, which are all pretty impressive. It has to be said that the final sword battle between the two foes is one of my favourite sequences in history, even though it is clearly a rip off of highlander. Of course, like many Hong Kong flicks, it is done 10 times better then the American version. This is a pretty good way to introduce yourself to Hong Kong cinema.

The Shining (1980)

The mother of all horror films

[10/10 · 10 January 2006]

Stanley Kubrick was probably the most most consistently brilliant director in film history. Despite having made films in a variety of genres, there has rarely been one made that is short of classic status, and his foray into horror is quite possibly the best of it's kind.

In 'The Shining', we are basically told a small story about writer's block, in which a writer and his family look after a hotel during the winter. With no one staying there, they are completely isolated, and writer Jack, (Jack Nicholson), finds himself slowly going mad, eventually resulting in his attempted murder of his wife and child.

Kubrick was always about phychology, and he expertly creates a deeply disturbing atmosphere which slowly builds. the camera-work helps to show the vast space the family are stuck in, and the haunting soundtrack compliments this extremely well, creating plenty of tension. The acting is also about as good as it gets from everyone, though it has to be said that Jack Nicholson steals the show as the lunatic star. Overall, this is my favourite horror flick, a film that manages to grip you to the very end, and it has to be said that even the most hardened movie goers will get some chills from this masterpiece.

Elephant (2003)

Interesting, but not for everyone

[7/10 · 8 January 2006]

Gus Van Sant's film about a short period in the lives of high school students is an interesting take on modern life. Though it really has no story or resolve, it is great to see a director that is willing to take a different path from the norm for a change.

Essentially about a high school massacre, 'Elephant' follows the lives of various students in a different order. All of them are connected by the time frame with which they are shot, with the end resulting in a massacre by two students.

Utilizing long takes from a steady cam, often from behind each character, and almost devoid of a score, Elephant feels more like an observation then a story, with very little insight into anyone's lives. Although there is some insight into the killers motives, almost everyone seems passive here: At no point do you really feel connected to the characters. If the film is trying to say anything, it is that most peoples lives really are devoid of anything worthwhile, though you can certainly take a lot out of this.

Although I enjoyed it, I must warn those who wish to see it that it's raw style can feel bland, and many will hate it. still, if you want something different, then this will interest you.

Three Dollars (2005)

Another fine Aussie flick that won't get any attention

[9/10 · 7 January 2006]

It's a real shame that films like 'Three Dollars' don't get any recognition in there own countries, because it definitely shows what a great industry we have hear. The premise is quite simple: a tale about an honest man, trying to support a family who loses his job and nearly collapses. Throughout the film, we learn about how he met his wife, and what it really means to be down on luck.

It's hard to explain why this is such a great film, but it is undoubtedly a fantastic story that is well acted and directed, with an as usual great performance for leading man Wehnam. All I can say is that it is well worth seeing, one of the best movies I've seen this year, yet no one will ever know about it. See it if you get a chance.

Chicken Little (2005)

A pretty average attempt to do better then pixar

[5/10 · 5 January 2006]

It was pretty clear that when Disney was promoting Chicken Little, they were trying to give you the sense that it was different to the norm, and was super cool. However, the sad truth is that 'Little' follows way too many cliques, is limited in decent jokes and simply feels like a rushed job. At 81 minutes, it is also quite short, even for an animated feature.

Not that it's all bad. There were a few moments that induced laughter, (at least for children), and everything was at a reasonable standard. It's just that if you compare this to any pixar film from the last five years, you can't help but notice how greatly 'Chicken Little' pales in comparison, in just about every category. Furthermore, you can't help feeling like Disney was cutting corners with this one, which adds to the problems. You'd be better off watching the Incredibles again.

Street Fighter (1994)

This is horrible, please avoid!!

[1/10 · 21 December 2005]

It is sad that people think that video games are just for kids, and Jean Claude clearly didn't realize that Street Fighting is not something children should watch. This film is unbelievably bad, it is absolutely terrible.

The action scenes are a complete disaster, and there really isn't a story. There are attempts at jokes, but they all suck. Clearly, they should never have tried to recreate this game as a live action film, but Jean decided it was worth it, and thus we have the worst attempt at a marshal arts flick we have ever seen. Please avoid this at all costs.

I beg you- avoid

Animal Farm (1954)

Very good adaptation, minus the ending

[8/10 · 21 December 2005]

Animal Farm was a novel by George Orwell, in which animals on a farm uprise against their masters and take over with a new ideal. Whilst the novel was quite short and written very much like a children's book, it was actually a pretty accurate representation of the Russian communist revolution- with animals.

So when translating it into an animated feature, it was a no brainer that they could do this well if they tried, and they succeeded. Containing most of the dark humor and symbolism of Orwell's book, 'Animal Farm' has the same appeals for both children and adults on different levels, though it is still very dark. The only real blemish is the ending, which is one of the few positive parts of the film. If you leave out this last dying seconds though, you've got the book.

The Bank (2001)

Clever mystery about the corporate world

[9/10 · 21 December 2005]

When I first decided to watch 'The Bank', I really new very little about it, only that got some pretty good reviews and had two of Australia's finest actors in it. Afterwards, I can say that it offers a very well structured and acted piece of work, with a very neat twist towards the end.

What is most important about this film, though in many ways it is a mystery, is it's focus on greed, and how incredibly focused one has to be in the business world. Wenham, who plays the part of a brilliant mathematician who has developed a formula for anticipating the stock market, is constantly challenged by the 'banks' CEO into forgetting all morality for a buck.

Overall, there's a great deal of great characterizations in this fine tale, but revealing anything else about the flick would probably ruin it for most, so all I can say is that I recommend it to anyone who can find it.

One Perfect Day (2004)

A visually/ musically brilliant film

[9/10 · 20 December 2005]

When you think of Australian film making, one often thinks of those stereotypical stories of suburban housholds or something to do with Abba. Thankfully, a new form of cinema has come out of Australia in recent years, and "One Perfect Day" is definitely one of the most promising pieces.

Essentially, "Perfect" looks at the life of a brilliant young composer, Tommy, who has tried to make a name for himself in Opera. Following the tragic death of a family member, he finds himself drawn to the world of Dance music, as he tries to work out what life was like for her. it is hear that he finally finds a way to reach people, though there are a lot of bumps along the road for him.

Paul Currie's directorial debut is one that shows a great deal of flair. Visually, the film always entices you with it's stunning cinematography, with just the right balance between the overly manic choices of Baz Lurman and normality. Musically, it also has a pretty awesome soundtrack, and quite amazingly it is one that keeps a modern flavour yet still manages to create an emotional connection to the characters.

Everything seems to work in this film, despite some minor issues with the story, but this is definitely worth checking out.

Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)

A beautiful film that defies categorizing

[10/10 · 13 December 2005]

As far as Aussie flicks go, you would be hard pressed to go past Peter Weir's brilliant Picnic at hanging rock.

The premise is simple: We are led to believe that four girls in the early nineteen hundreds, after going for a trek through hanging rock, have simply disappeared. It is only in the first thirty minutes that that the 'horror' part of the movie is established, with the majority of the film focusing on the mystery of the girls disappearance.

As an achievement, 'Picnic' has so much going for it. Weir manages to create something truly eery through what is never seen. Interwoven in the main 'horror' plot is some magnificent drama, mystery elements, and a fantastic look at how Australian culture was in those days. And the brilliant score, mainly using piano and wind pipes, perfectly complements the story, which can be frightening, incredibly touching, and funny. Possibly the finest film to come out of Australia, and still Weir's best.

Romeo + Juliet (1996)

The way Shakespeare should be viewed

[10/10 · 31 October 2005]

When Baz Lurman decided to make a Shakespeare movie, he wanted to recreate the experience as it was in it's day, or in other words make it fun again. And that's just what he achieved with this well conceived drama.

Set in Venice beach instead of the original Venice, Italy, all of the dialog is kept with some clever referencing used to help thread some of the problems into the story.

Using a great sense of style, the film generally moves at a thrilling pace, with sometimes bizarre use of the camera making for an exceptional visual experience. All of the acting is well above standard, with kudos to Leonardo Decaprio and Clare Danes, though everyone does a top class job.

The score is also top notch, taking some of the best bands and using them effectively to help create the right mood. If your a purist, you may dislike this quirky film, but if you want to see Shakespeare in an exciting portrayal, then this is well worth seeing.

Spartacus (1960)

Makes Gladiator look like garbage

[10/10 · 12 October 2005]

Okay, I know a lot of people love Gladiator, and I guess it wasn't that bad, but it was still just a dumb action movie. it also pales in comparison to Spartacus, the original fight in the Colosseum flick. What differs is that it is just so much more interesting, with a great story about a man who tries to fight against the Romans and regain his peoples dignity.

There are a number of notable pieces of brilliance that make this such a great film, especially for it's time. Firstly, the script is full of great dialog, and offers some fantastic lines for the Romans. It is the first film to include a Gay scene, though it is done with clever subtlety. And it was one of the first big epics to end in a downer. Yep, that's right!! Goes against what most people want in a big screen epic but it was done well!! There's plenty more to recommend it, but I think it is best just to say it is one of the finest films ever made and well worth watching if you want a film with some brains, as well as epic action.

Porco Rosso (1992)

An underrated classic

[10/10 · 12 October 2005]

Although few people actually know about this film, it must be stated that this one of the best animated films of all time. It is also quite unique, and has comedy and themes more enjoyable for an adult audience, though youngsters should also get a kick out of it.

Porco Rosso follows the adventures of a man known as porco, a pilot who attacks pirates for a fee during World War II, and has the unfortunate problem of being cursed to look like a pig. It follows his adventures, battling many different foes for a number of different reasons.

Porco Rosso has a lot of things to recommend it. The artwork is stunning, with amazing attention to detail and a great anime style. The story is an absolute joy to follow, and has that perfect blend of comedy, drama and action. Although it is hard to describe the story properly without giving to much away, this truly is one to watch at all ages, though most of the humor is aimed at adults. Do yourself a favor and see it: you won't be disappointed.

The Warriors (1979)

A cult classic

[8/10 · 12 October 2005]

For anyone who missed out on this little gem, 'The Warriors' is basically a gang film. Filmed with a low budget and a cast of no-names, it has held up pretty well over time.

The plot follows the framing of a gang known as the Warriors, who are at a huge gang summit when the big boss gets assassinated. With all the other gangs notified to hunt them down and kill them, The Warriors must try and stick together and make there way home to their 'territory'.

Essentially, this is really just a B grade movie, with a great deal of well choreographed fights making up most of the film. However, the story is put together extremely well, has some interesting characters, and is thoroughly entertaining right up to the climax. It's violent, but it is still a unique film that is definitely worth a look at.

Beetlejuice (1988)

Where it all started

[9/10 · 7 October 2005]

Tim Burton is one heck of a director. He's made the best comic book film there ever was with 'Batman', and some of the most memorable films of our time. This was his real breakthrough, a warped comedy that provides a unique world that only Burton can give.

The concept is odd to say the least. A happily married couple have a car accident and die. Now ghosts, they try to rid their home of what they consider some pretty obnoxious neighbors, with the help of an 'expert' called 'Bettlejuice'.

Surprisingly, it all works splendidly. Burton's world is unique and vivid, with some truly imaginative stuff going on. Michael Keaton, who plays the title role, is absolutely hilarious. He really is an underrated actor, who is damn funny when he wants to be.

Considering the subject matter, it's amazing that Burton's world is still so light-hearted and interesting, but he pulls it off with a great sense of style and humor. If you want to see something completely different that's accessible, then do yourself a favor and check it out.

Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004)

Great ending to a brilliant epic

[10/10 · 7 October 2005]

Kill Bill Vol 2. is an awesome conclusion to a great movie double. If you liked the first one, you should definitely get a kick out of seeing the remaining members of the viper squad killed.

This is more like a Tarantino of old, and has all of the witty dialog we have come to expect from the modern master. There's a great deal of it to, but that is not to say that there aren't any great fights in this. If anything, the battles are just as enjoyable here, though they are certainly more concise.

Everything about this film is fantastic. The acting is great from everyone, particularly Madsen and Carradine. The characters have a load of depth, much more then the first part, and even the lesser known characters will be remembered. The score is up to the usual high standard, with some really cool references to some other classic films by a certain Western Director.

If you are able, it is best to watch the two flicks back to back: both are easily some of the best to come out in modern times. An instant classic.

Amélie (2001)

Such imaginative fun!!

[10/10 · 5 October 2005]

Every now and then a film comes that leaves you with complete satisfaction, and this a rare classic. Seriously, this is easily one of the best crafted films to come out in the new Milena, simply because it is so perfectly enjoyable. It's so hard not to like, the way it shows the importance of the little things in life, and with that awesome visual style that Jean Peunet has become so good at. This has just so many great scenes, as well as some really heart wrenching parts and some fantastic characters. And it's also a great start for those who haven't seen any cool french flicks.

This is a top ten film, so see it!!

Full Metal Jacket (1987)

The best Vietnam movie

[10/10 · 5 October 2005]

I know it is certainly a big call to call this the best Vietnam movie of all time, but this is probably the most realistic account of it. It is also a great example of Director Kubrick's ability to show humans objectively, not trying to make out whether one is evil or not.

Essentially the movie is divided into two parts. The first revolves around the training of marines, and shows the brutality of becoming a soldier. The second part then focuses on the actual battlefield.

What is interesting about this film is that it isn't particularly violent, but still extremely powerful. This is about the psychology of War, about how various soldiers deal with a mad mad situation, and it does a great job of depicting this.

Everything about this film is great. The acting is top notch from a cast of mostly unknowns, and the score is used to haunting effect. Camera shots also brilliantly portray the scenes, often from the point of view of the person shooting, to great effect. And if anything can be said to recommend this film, it is that there many great scenes that you will definitely never forget. A masterpiece.

A Beautiful Mind (2001)

A well crafted fiction

[2/10 · 3 October 2005]

It has to be said that this would have been okay if it wasn't a patronizing fiction about schizophrenia. Sadly, Ron Howard has made a film which is a complete bastardization of the real story of John Nash.

Let's forget that Nash's form of the mental illness was merely misinterpreting radio messages, as opposed to having 'imaginary' car chases from secret agents. Forget that he actually was quite good with women, having numerous relationships with them, as well as men. Let's even forget that the man was actually divorced from his wife, whilst also being a brilliant scientist with numerous accomplishments, and you might enjoy this film. Of course, that would take away the whole point of it being a 'true story'. Just remember that you are watching make-believe.