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The Holdovers (2023)
A wonderfully moving story that gave me a case of "The Feels"
Beautifully acted, brilliantly written and exquisitely scored, the always-engaging Paul Giamatti heads up a top-notch cast in this lovingly crafted period drama. Nothing like what I expected from the previews, it is quite the pleasant cinematic surprise.
The intricate soundtrack becomes a tapestry for the characters lives over a winter school holiday season, weaving in and out of the story and becoming almost a character on its' own merit.
Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Dominic Sessa and a brilliant supporting cast round out this masterpiece. The last time I was moved by a film to this degree was a very long time ago - after viewing a little coming-of-age movie from Stephen King scored by Ben E King.
Were I choosing Oscars for Best Picture and Ensamble, I'd be hard-pressed to not earmark a few golden statues for this cast & crew.
The Rocketeer (1991)
Criminally underrated piece of exquisite cinematic storytelling
I do not usually look to the Disney studios for a solid period film, and certainly not there for a ride that takes risks with non-formulaic scripts. The Rocketeer is a jambalaya of historical references, detailed era-consistent scenery and a full-bodied soundtrack that is as charming as it is earnest. So many familiar character actors are peppered throughout it begs rewatching to try to catch them all. I'm watching it tonight for the 3rd time and still see things missed earlier. Combining fast-paced intelligent dialog, a perfect soundtrack by the brilliant late James Horner, a top-notch cast and of course the professional crew, we are transported to a plausible pre-WW2 world and an action packed adventure every grandparent can share with their grandkids, enjoying the heck out of it. How can I give this an 11-star rating?
Across the Universe (2007)
A psychedelic musical roller coaster ride
Those four lads from Liverpool had unfortunately broken up before I discovered them on AM radio, but in my pre-teen years their singularly unique sound weaved it's way into my life and has remained there for half a century. How I missed the release of this wild ride of a film I can only attest to an ill-timed move across the country combined with the 2008 global financial crisis. Although a decade late taking it in, I would like to express appreciation to the talented team of professionals who lovingly crafted this ode to musical genius - a genius which transcended all that went before & possibly all that has come to be since- IMHO. A bit inspired I think by Mamma Mia! with a dash of Forrest Gump, this film brought back memories sad and happy as the familiar songs punctuated the films narrative... sparking reflections of people and events long past. This magical mystery tour may not be for everyone as it is not your typical musical fare, but for someone who lived through the tumultuous 60s and 70s, it struck a chord. As a Beatles fan, I loved it.
Mein bester Feind (2011)
A happy find!
A big thanks to Netflix for the opportunity to see titles which otherwise might not get a second glance without media hype (remember "Das Boot" a few decades back?). Even in an "actioner", some of the impact is generally lost multi-tasking between reading subtitles and enjoying the imagery. "My Best Enemy" was a delight despite my lack of understanding the German language. It moved at an exciting pace, not too fast that I could not read along and enjoy the scenery but not so slow as to loose my interest. I do not recognize the names of any of the actors in the film but they created some very believable characters. The director and writer(s) told a wonderful story set in at a time in the past many would probably rather forget. A two thumbs up for "Mein bester Feind". I will be looking for more from Wolfgang Murnberger and his talented cast and crew! Kudos!!
Ring of Fire (2013)
Ring of Fire, Filmed in the new (and overused) Rattle-Vision
Could they have possibly shaken the camera any more?
I might have somewhat enjoyed this movie if a bit of moderation was exercised when deciding when & how long to shake the camera. This technique can add tension when employed selectively but that did not happen here. The camera shook & shook & then shook some more. This technique is being overused in recent years and it is becoming quite tiresome!
Unfortunately, it felt like half of the film was shot in this, shall we call it: "Rattle Vision". Too much of this ruins the entire experience.
I've never before gotten motion sick while sitting in an easy chair, but "Ring of Fire" nearly drove me to toss my cookies into the Ring of Porcelain down the hall.
Because of the extreme queasiness I suffered trying to watch this mess, I feel compelled to rate it 3 stars out of 10. My apologies to the cast as they may have done a good job but I'll never know because most of the footage is a blur!