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RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo!

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RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 7:46:17 PM   
KnightofZyryab


Posts: 5767
Joined: 26/12/2005
Apocalypse Now (1979)
 
Positives:
- Possibly the greatest cinematography in the history of film; Coppola's command is flawless throughout
- Astonishing sound, and choice of music - Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries and the Doors
- Excellent peformances from all of the cast, and Marlon Brando's Kurtz created an iconic representation of men driven to insanity by war.
- Great use of environment, a hellish nightmare of torn land

Negatives
- Can be difficult and horrific viewing

5/5

_____________________________

Imminent viewings : The Place Beyond the Pines

Read my blog at: http://alcentrodelaberinto.blogspot.com/

(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 31
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 7:58:29 PM   
Nicola1001


Posts: 12312
Joined: 6/8/2006
Invisible Ghost 1941
 
Positives:

1. It was a short film
2. The story moved along very quickly

Negatives:
 
1. The storyline wasn't very good
2. Over dramatic acting

Husband's (Bela Lugosi) wife ran off with another man. Wife turns up after having a car crash with the new man, gardener hides her. She wanders around the garden, husband sees her, goes into a trance and murders a couple of his servants. Eventually gets caught when policemen see wife and takes her to husband who goes into trance again, which proves his guilt. 

Didn't enjoy this at all 1/5
 

< Message edited by Nicola1001 -- 29/9/2006 8:01:32 PM >

(in reply to bubs)
Post #: 32
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 9:18:17 PM   
Jessica_ca_ca_ca


Posts: 30072
Joined: 4/1/2006
EIGHT BELOW (2006)

Positives:
Cute little husky dog.
Cute little husky dog.
Cute little husky dog.
Cute little husky dog.
Cute little husky dog.
Cute little husky dog.
Cute little husky dog.
Cute little husky dog.
Emotionally overwhelming and it's not just the musical score making its audience teary-eyed.
Incredible performances by some extremely intelligent animals, which are often overlooked outside the Antartic.
Beautifully crafted scenic shots.

Negatives:
Paul Walker - although his performance was good, I can't get Fast & the Furious out of my head.
Some terribly shocking use of CGI with night-time shots and of the sea creature battle with the dogs.

When a seemingly easy expedition goes awry due to a storm, the team leave with injured passengers and every intention of returning for the heroic dogs. Weather conditions worsen, leaving the Guide, Jerry Shepherd (Paul Walker) to battle against frustrating attempts to return, resignation, then a renewal of his determination to find evidence of his dogs - whether they be alive or dead. Eight huskies were out there alone for half a year, fending for themselves, awaiting for their master's return. Based and inspired by a true story.

4/5

_____________________________

You mustn't be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling.

(in reply to Nicola1001)
Post #: 33
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 9:27:05 PM   
Funkyrae


Posts: 20306
Joined: 30/9/2005
From: Just stick a pin in a map
 Snakes on a Plane

Positives

- Sam Jackson - nuff said
- Cracking soundtrack
- Well paced and action packed
- Snakes
- THAT LINE!!!!

Negatives

- Sadly overhyped.  Not the fault of the film, word of mouth and internet gossip took it and ran.
- Some very iffy CGI in places.

The "does what is says on the tin" film.  Thoroughly enjoyable with some huge laugh out loud moments and some where you are guaranteed to cringe.  Easily re-watchable, especially with like-minded friends.

4/5



_____________________________

That's me that is!


(in reply to Jessica_ca_ca_ca)
Post #: 34
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 9:30:11 PM   
ila.aoki


Posts: 1987
Joined: 30/12/2005
From: Gion, Kyoto
 THE WEDDING CRASHERS

Positives - owen wilson
                vince vaughn
                owen and vince together!!

Negatives - not very funny
                 annoying female characters
                 cloying disgusting ending

2/5

_____________________________

doesn't have a sig (>_<) (>_<) but does have the vainest avatar ever!

(in reply to Funkyrae)
Post #: 35
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 9:46:39 PM   
UncleJun


Posts: 23268
Joined: 7/11/2005
From: Despair
 The Man With Two Brains

Positves :

1. Steve Martin at his manic best. Forget anything he's done lately. You already have? Good
2. Still laugh out loud funny in places, many years on
3. Kathleen Turner!
4. Smashing a window with an erection. What's not to love?
 
Negatives :

1. That whiny voiced prostitute. I know she's supposed to be annoying, but I wanted to jab knives in my ears and eyes when she was on screen
2. I still get more laughs from Planes, Trains and Automobiles
3. I've seen it so many times that I know most of it off by heart, and it gets less funny every time I watch it

Still one of Martin's best, still funny and still a damn good film - 4/5

_____________________________

Go away.

(in reply to ila.aoki)
Post #: 36
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 9:56:32 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 Touching the Void
 




Positives
1. Truly Amazing re-telling of this real life survival story of two mountain climbers finding danger on Siula Grande, a treacherous mountain range in Peru.  
2. Excellent re-enactments which had me believing i was watching the real climbers!! fantastic!!
3. Incredible cinematography....helps that Production travelled to actual mountain and filmed scenes there, creating an ultra-realistic sense of being there with the climbers.



Negatives
1. Might turn people off through its documentary to film to documentary style.
2. The film doesnt really get into what happened after the descent......(But...the special features , do just that!! Beautiful work.)



5/5....Simply outstanding!! Don't miss it!!

< Message edited by wgamador -- 3/2/2007 1:41:31 AM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to KnightofZyryab)
Post #: 37
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 10:43:00 PM   
silverado


Posts: 7096
Joined: 2/7/2006
From: Kent
 GARDEN STATE
 
Positive
 
i   It unites a Lord Of The Rings cast member with a Star Wars cast member
ii  Braff and Portman are superb
iii Great dialogue
iv Super cool soundtrack

Negative
i Best I can come up with is it's too short

Love it 5/5

(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 38
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 11:03:33 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 Killing Zoe



Positives
1. This film is right up my alley....it has everything I enjoy in a film; Ultra-Violence, sex, bank heist, cool villian, cool atmosphere, entertaining script, twists....and insanity. Did I mention Quentin Tarrantino's fingerprints are all over this film.
2. Truly believable ending. If you planned to commit a major bank heist, how would you spend the previous night? Studying the bank layout or perhaps resting up so your senses are keen......Not these guys, they party like wild animals..it's amusing.
3. Watch closely as the heist begins to fail, the antagonist becomes more and more frustrated and begins to lose control , the color red becomes more prominent in scenes as he loses control..... It's small details like that that makes this film a wild acid-trip-like ride.

Negatives
1. The film starts a bit slow with the introduction of Zoe....but fear not!
2. This film is truly ultra-violent, while there are no babies getting shot, the bank employees are quite convincing at being terrified.
3. Little to almost  no character development. Bunch of guys rob a bank, things go wrong....etc.


5/5......consider that this film is not for everyone....but if my positives peaked your interest....watch this film!   I like this film because its just insane.

< Message edited by wgamador -- 1/12/2006 4:52:27 PM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 39
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 29/9/2006 11:17:40 PM   
bubs


Posts: 8051
Joined: 18/7/2006
From: South Africa
 Time Bandits

Positives:

- Fun for the family.
- Some funny appearances from the men of Monty Python.
- Typical Gilliam style as well as story.
- Time travel!
- Fun too see where they go next.

Negatives:

- The main character is very annoying.
- Some over acting from some of the dwarfs.
- Alot of it may be a bit too dated for today's audiences.
- Crappy music.
- May be too dark for kids.
- People might get confused about the ending.

This filmis a huge let down, certainly one of Gilliam's weakest works. There are some funny moments here from funny characters, but they don't save this over-the-top time travel film. One of the key faliurs of this film was the main character, painfully annoying with his bloody annoying accent(replacing r's with w's). Overall, this is something the die hard Terry Gilliam fans will enjoy, I wasn't one of them.

Final score:   **


< Message edited by bubs -- 29/9/2006 11:18:30 PM >

_____________________________

"Shake it once, shake it twice! A' give me a little bit of sugar spice!"- Bubs

Forza Juve

"Who Watches The Watchmen?"

"I'm Learnding"

Top 5 Favourite Albums:

1. Kid A - Radiohead
2. Spiderland - Slint
3. Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven - Godspeed You! Black Emperor
4. Led Zeppelin IV - Led Zeppelin
5. Laughing Stock - Talk Talk

My DVD's: http://perrin-bubs-f-rch.dvdaf.com/owned

(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 40
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 30/9/2006 12:57:01 AM   
Cuchulainn


Posts: 5755
Joined: 18/2/2006
From: Hell
 X-MEN:THE LAST STAND
Positives:


Plus a couple of truly awesome action set-pieces...

Negatives:
Movie tends to wilt when not in full-tilt action mode.
Many new characters seem under-developed.
Altogether less engaging than the first two films.
Vinnie Jones.

Not a total disaster,but certainly no over-achiever either.A 'just-about-scraped-it' 3/5.


_____________________________

"Give 'em Hell 54th!!!"

(in reply to bubs)
Post #: 41
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 30/9/2006 1:31:21 AM   
Gimli The Dwarf


Posts: 73446
Joined: 30/9/2005
From: Central Park Zoo
 Ladies In Lavender - 4/5
 
Postitives:
1. Maggie Smith gives another great performance
2. A wonderfully downbeat ending
3. Lovely score.
4. Miriam Margolyes provides much light relief.

Negatives:
1. A tad predictable at times.
2. Daniel Bruhl can't really act.



I find this kind of review incredibly hard, simply because I always tend to look out for the positives in film. Unless the film has no worth at all, I have trouble picking out one or two things that I dislike.



_____________________________

So, sir, we let him have it right up! And I have to report, sir, he did not like it, sir.

Fellow scientists, poindexters, geeks.

Yeah, Mr. White! Yeah, science!

Much more better!

(in reply to Cuchulainn)
Post #: 42
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 1/10/2006 4:38:32 PM   
Maddy


Posts: 8365
Joined: 3/10/2005
The Interpreter (2005)
 
Positives:
 
~ If you're a fan of political intrigue, then this is for you, and requires some concentration!
~ I'm not always convinced by Nicole Kidman, but she was very good in this, with Sean Penn doing his usual gruff but reliable & emotional act as the secret service agent assigned to her. Great support from Catherine Keener too as his partner, though she could have been used more.
~ Some good set pieces (particularly the bit on a bus!), with a sense of tension at various points.

Negatives:
 
~ I have nothing against wordy dialogue, but some of the "political motivation" speeches & conversations were quite poor, and this let the actors down. The impression you get is that the filmmakers "played it safe" with the topic they were dealing with.
~ The finale was totally unemotional and quite empty.

In conclusion, 3/5...a perfectly enjoyable way to spend 2 hours, but don't expect something deep & meaningful!
 
 

< Message edited by Maddy -- 1/10/2006 4:43:00 PM >

_____________________________

I'm noticing a distinct slackening of awe, a certain lack of trembling in my presence.

(in reply to Gimli The Dwarf)
Post #: 43
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 1/10/2006 6:26:09 PM   
UncleJun


Posts: 23268
Joined: 7/11/2005
From: Despair
 The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)

Positives
1. I was genuinely shocked at times, and there's not many films that can do that to me. The first films in years to make me jump!
2. Good cast all round, especially Laura Linney
3. The girl who played Emily Rose (Jennifer Carpenter) was fantastic. Such a unique look and she easily pulled off the idea that she was possessed
4. Good contrast between the tension of the courtroom scenes and the creepy flashbacks
5. It managed to distance itself from The Exorcist despite a few similarities (and I'm not just talking about an exorcism!)
 
Negatives
 
1. The ending was a bit of a letdown. I was expecting much more
2. That's all!

4/5

_____________________________

Go away.

(in reply to Maddy)
Post #: 44
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 9:56:29 AM   
Jessica_ca_ca_ca


Posts: 30072
Joined: 4/1/2006
Friends With Money (2006)

Positives:
The attraction of Jennifer Aniston, whom I think is actually a rather talented actress.
Joan Cusack!
Jason Isaacs!

Negatives:
Blurry storyline, with no focus whatsoever.
Jumpy narratives.
Weird and cannot-relate-to characters.

1/5

_____________________________

You mustn't be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling.

(in reply to UncleJun)
Post #: 45
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 10:29:09 AM   
jediwarrior


Posts: 19998
Joined: 30/9/2005
From: At home eating twiglets
 X-Men 3
 
Positives:
 
Fast pace action film.
Killing off some major characters
Good action scenes
Hallie Berry looking hot

Negatives:
 
Vinny Jones as Juggenaut (please who told him he could act)
Even I said it was fast pace I'd had like it to be about another 20 mins longer

4/5

< Message edited by jediwarrior -- 2/10/2006 10:43:27 AM >

_____________________________

GAMERTAG: hothtrooper

The hate of men will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people. And so long as men die, liberty will never perish.

(in reply to Jessica_ca_ca_ca)
Post #: 46
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 10:29:54 AM   
jinks


Posts: 15607
Joined: 30/9/2005
From: A haunted mirror...
 ALIENS: SPECIAL EDITION
 
Positives:
A VERY decent sequal
Expands on the Alien mythology
Fantastic action sequences
Restored scenes
Likeable characters
Suspense
Guns
Aliens
Blood
Spaceships
Filmed down the road from me.
REALLY good commentary.

Negatives
Ummmm.......none. Tis Jinks's favourite film!

5/5 moos from Jinks's movie cow.

Fine Bessie's Moooooooooooooooooooo of approval for Aliens Special Edition



_____________________________


(in reply to Jessica_ca_ca_ca)
Post #: 47
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 11:42:16 AM   
damo1104


Posts: 4091
Joined: 27/9/2006
From: Cornwall
 I love this thread...
Could say anything here...
Positives.... Oh it was good!
Negatives...Oh it was a little bit crap too!!

I am only jesting think I took a silly pill this morning...crack on....

I will be fair though and give a "Mini Review"

Once Upon A Time in te West

Positives
Cinematically fantastically shot
Great Cast
Haunting Soundtrack

Negatives
Did anybody notice the boy that is supposed to be the young Charles Bronson had brown eyes and his don't match..


< Message edited by damo1104 -- 2/10/2006 11:47:23 AM >

_____________________________

I am a loner
alone
in a crowded head
and crowded in a lonely world...

(words of Salena Godden)

(in reply to jinks)
Post #: 48
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 3:39:30 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 Halloween


Positives
1. Amazingly tense atmosphere throughout the entire film, without the gorenography.
2. Excellent direction, the shots of the empty rooms are brilliant, they had me saying, "Where could Michael be?"...The lighting helps the forboding dread and the spine-chilling music, it just gets you. Great characters to hate or love.
3. Scary cold-blooded killer, shows no remorse, and has a relentless, supernatural and undestructible presence.

Negatives
1. If you are a fan of gore and blood, you will be a bit disappointed that you will  see almost no blood at all in this film. (Believe me, it wasn't needed)


*While it is 25 years old, the film is still one of the best horror films of all time. I'll watch it again and again.

Trick or Treat
......5/5....

< Message edited by wgamador -- 2/10/2006 11:48:04 PM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to damo1104)
Post #: 49
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 4:05:29 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 Wolf Creek



Positives
1. Exquisite cinematography and truly amazing breathtaking shots of the Outback. Really interesting masterful shots worthy of any gallery. I paused at many screenshots..The film was shot in Hi-Definition!! The shot of the crater and the sound that seems to surround the crater are amazing.
2. Great story...wether true or not, very scary to be in that situation and to be in the middle of nowhere. I enjoyed how in the beginning of the film, I tried to guess where the villian would come from and even thought it would be aliens.....excellent job of revealing the villian at just the right time...
3. Convincing villian, one of the best ever on screen. Believable protagonists...i happened to like all of them and wanted all of them to live...like most of us, they were just trying to have a good time.

Negatives
1. Not enough killings--- but this is what seperates this from a Friday the 13th.
2. Questionable actions by the characters, but unless you have found yourself in a similar situation, you have no idea, how you would react.
3. How did the villian know what hiding place one of the main characters would choose....(I came up with my own reason....."the rest were locked", the villian would know exactly where to find you, then.)


Okay, I loved this film, I could definately see this happening in real life. I know some folks will find some of the character actions to be stupid, but lets face it, you wouldnt know how you would react and where else where they gonna go?? They were in the middle of nowhere.
Its hard for me to find a serious flaw in this film...sure the villian gets shot, but ive seen villians get electrocuted, stabbed, shot and drowned, only to come back in other films.

......5/5......

< Message edited by wgamador -- 8/12/2006 7:51:46 PM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 50
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 5:03:31 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 Session 9



Positives
1. Truly creepy setting and sounds really creep you out, shot on location at the Mental Hospital. Erie atmosphere almost a character in itself. Awesome sense of loss and suffering. Shot in Hi-Definition.
2. Nothing is revealed until the very end so it keeps you guessing what is happening to the characters......... "Where do you live, Simon?"
3. Fantastic believable cast and acting. Great underlying story that adds to the dread as the "Sessions" are revealed. Superb special features that creeped me out as much as the film, especially when.....hahaha, im not telling!

Negatives
1. The characters are at each other's throats from the start, they dont like one another and it  kind of makes you not want to see any of them survive.
2. The director only lets you see what he wants you to see.
3. Some may be let down by the revelation, but for me....its what makes the movie good, the reality.



I watched this film and it creeped me out.....but it's mostly because im open to the subjects presented and I agree that where there has been death and suffering.....those places are never to be the same.


.......5/5.....   great story, cool visuals, and great creepy location.
I know what the alternate ending would have been and that ending would have lowered the score to maybe 3/5....but thankfully that alternate ending was not chosen. I really liked this film.

< Message edited by wgamador -- 8/12/2006 8:56:25 PM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 51
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 5:37:17 PM   
bubs


Posts: 8051
Joined: 18/7/2006
From: South Africa
 Taxi Driver (1976)


Positives:

- When the opening sequence occurs and you see the title name appear. Absolutely breathtaking. When I first saw that, I immediatly fell in love.
- Beautiful score that never loses it's power.
- Great casting.
- Robert De Niro is superb in this, as well as Cybill Shepherd, Jodie Foster and the rest.
- Great story, putting us in the mind of a lunatic bent on cleaning up the streets.
- Stunning cinematography.
- Scorsese's direction is perfect. Definately one of his best works.

Negatives:

- Most people won't understand or wont be satisfied with the ending.
- Not as much blood people would expect from Scorsese. Although it does get very bloody.
- People may get impatient and too bored with the film.
- Not specifacally a crime film, more of a drama. So, if you're expecting a full blown crime film, then you might be dissapointed. But you should still enjoy it.
- Not a film you can watch with the family.

This is one of the most beautifully crafted Scorsese film, and it is also one of his grittiest works to date. Stunning performances from the whole cast, but particually De Niro and Foster. Everything about this film is perfect, the acting, the direction, music, cinematography, and story. Certainly a film you will never forget. You have never been a Scorsese fan untill you've seen Taxi Driver. My all-time favourite film. Don't miss it.

Final Score: *****


< Message edited by bubs -- 2/10/2006 5:41:20 PM >

_____________________________

"Shake it once, shake it twice! A' give me a little bit of sugar spice!"- Bubs

Forza Juve

"Who Watches The Watchmen?"

"I'm Learnding"

Top 5 Favourite Albums:

1. Kid A - Radiohead
2. Spiderland - Slint
3. Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven - Godspeed You! Black Emperor
4. Led Zeppelin IV - Led Zeppelin
5. Laughing Stock - Talk Talk

My DVD's: http://perrin-bubs-f-rch.dvdaf.com/owned

(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 52
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 5:59:41 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 The Toolbox Murders (1978)


Positives
1. The story was pretty cool, especially the mini-history lesson we learn about the killer. The set up of the hotel being renovated adds to the atmosphere because we see creepy ladders, tools, painting tarps, and clear plastic throughout the hotel. Which is pretty cool since you cant see down certain hallways, etc... it also allows us to begin figuring out who the killer may be...is it the doorman or the ever creepy and present "handyman"?
2. The acting was decent, most actors you wont recognize but they do their jobs...especially the main character, she convinced me that she was a dumb *****!
3. I liked the exterior shots of the hotel...that angle made the hotel look possessed and it looked alive..okay maybe i exaggerate a bit. The visuals did pack an awesome punch at times though, I can recall jumping in my chair at some of the scare tactics...they will keep you on edge for sure.


Negatives
1. The story overall was totally disappointing because only partial history of the killer is revealed and he was definately the most complex of all the characters.
2. This movie could have had a much better ending, Plus they could have atleast explained the 'symbols'...i mean, i understand how they sorta' "helped" but i was more curious about the symbols than i was about --why the tenants were being killed.
3. Some of the sets look old and they should it is a 1978 film. Compared to the films now shot in Hi-Def....this is not a visual treat.


* Its starts out promising, intelligent and clever and then becomes the usual "slasher" film towards the end. Nice try.....but not enough substance for me. Would I watch it again?....yes, if you ask me to sit and watch it with you, but only cause i wanna laugh when you jump.
.........2/5

< Message edited by wgamador -- 2/10/2006 11:52:51 PM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to bubs)
Post #: 53
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 6:05:28 PM   
Maddy


Posts: 8365
Joined: 3/10/2005
quote:

ORIGINAL: wgamador

Would I watch it again?....yes, if you ask me to sit and watch it with you, cause i wanna laugh when you jump.



 You have an evil side to you really don't you W?!  

_____________________________

I'm noticing a distinct slackening of awe, a certain lack of trembling in my presence.

(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 54
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 6:18:07 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 Red Dragon


Positives
1. The Red Dragon and the Woman Clothed with the Sun. This painting is one of twelve in a group by William Blake inspired by the Book of Revelation in the Bible, in which the Great Red Dragon is a principal figure. The Dragon, drawn in water colors of ochre and reddish brown, is seen from behind with emphasis on his great tail. He represents Satan, standing in a threatening pose with outspread legs and huge extended wings over the Woman Clothed with the Sun, who is depicted in gold with a pale yellow moon at her feet. He is hoping to seize the child that she, symboliz-ing the Church, is about to bear. The Dragon wants to devour the "child" that will oppose his reign. Anyhow, thats a little info on the whole Red Dragon theme to the film, which is why i give this film such high praise. The concept and the intertwining of William Blake's painting was friggin' genius.
2. Great story and characters that I genuinely cared for, even the killer.  really enjoyed this movie because of the character Dolarhyde, how his past and his present help him evolve into a monster, not without his own conflicts of course. The director takes us along the journey and we discover Dolarhyde's secret life, i felt as if i were there over his shoulder throughout the film. Will Norton help the FBI catch the killer or will the killer continue to murder without any clues to his identity?!!
3. Strong supporting characters too.Very good script, interesting sleuthing, it's like an episode of CSI on steroids. Great visuals and awesome ending too.
4. The most impressive thing to me about this movie are the small details. Like the game piece of mah-jong where the killer adopts the symbol of the "Red Dragon", the visit to the tiger, the Blake painting, Lechter's betrayal...etc. How the killer picks his families is one of the movies best revelations and quite clever, not to mention it's pretty scary that its possible that some deranged individual will get the idea from this movie and copy it.


Negatives
1. Dr. Lechter doesnt get enough camera time.
2. The museum scene was a bit far-fetched...I've been there and there is no way one does not get caught.
3. Some parts get slow at times but dont worry, something unexpected always happens.


Again, this is one of my favorite films.......5/5

< Message edited by wgamador -- 2/10/2006 7:29:30 PM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 55
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 6:36:30 PM   
wgamador


Posts: 20320
Joined: 17/1/2006
From: A polluted womb...
 High Tension (2005)



Positives
1. Memorable. No matter what the ending was, this story is pretty scary. Having something waiting for the right time to begin a killing spree and the only people around being you and your beloved family.....ouch.
2. The actors did a decent job of acting terrified. After the end is revealed, it makes sense that the "killer" seems to pretend to be scared at times. It really comes down to a lot of terrified screaming while all types of blood are sprayed on the actors.
3. The best part of the film was the visuals.
For me one of the most memorable moments happens in the first 5 minutes of the film when you see the "killer" in his truck and what appears to be a young lady giving him oral pleasure, what happens next you almost can't believe what your eyes are seeing, it was awesome. So, if you like realistic looking gore...youve come to the right place. The main reason that the mutilations look so real is that they are NOT done on mannequins or CGI....they are prostethics worn by the actors, so it appears as if they are really being cut. Not bad visuals for a low-budget film.


Negatives
1. This movie's ending seems to be changed at the very last minute. Because a lot doesnt make sense when you try to put the pieces together. I watched the DVD Special Features and you can tell that one Director really wasnt thrilled with the way the end came about, while the other Director yaps enthusiastically about how great the twist at the end is...this split decision shows!
2. The story could and probably has happened.
The only negative thing is that this film reminded me of that suck crap ending in the movie "Identity", where the 10 victims are a figment of the imagination, [High Tension has a similar ingredient in its ending]. To me thats not a "Great" movie twist. To me Its a friggin' rip-off by lazy directors or writers.
3. Although the end may very well disappoint you or anger you, 
"High Tension" is a high octane gore fest fun for the whole family that you gotta admit is one hell of a ride.


3/5....
with any other ending...it could have easily scored higher.

< Message edited by wgamador -- 2/10/2006 6:37:53 PM >

_____________________________

"And as he, who with laboring breath has escaped from the deep
to the shore, turns to the perilous waters and gazes..."


(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 56
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 6:52:00 PM   
bubs


Posts: 8051
Joined: 18/7/2006
From: South Africa
 The Big Lebowski (1998)


Positives:

- The Dude.
- Walter.
- Jesus.
- Donny.
- Typical Coen Brothers humour.
- Great dialogue.
- Absolutely brilliant story.
- The dream sequances.
- The really sweet soundtrack.
- The film has the best characters ever.
- "Shut the fuck up donny!" You laugh at everything Walter and let's not forget The Dude's words.
- Jesus' introduction. Pure genius.
- A satisfying ending.

Negatives:

- People may not be able to stomach the strong language.
- It ends.
- Wouldn't recommend watching with someone who gets really uncomfortable with really bad language. Fir example: Don't watch with a nun, small kids, cause then they'll be swearing like troopers, and people who are really strict with the use of language.

This is every Coen Brothers fan's dream, with great dialogue, clever and hillarious humour, brilliant acting and directing, and a cracking soundtrack. The dream sequances alone are worth watching this film for, and the hillarious situations that The Dude and the gang get into is absolute comic gold. One of my favourites, you'll love it too.

Final Score: *****


< Message edited by bubs -- 2/10/2006 7:15:04 PM >

_____________________________

"Shake it once, shake it twice! A' give me a little bit of sugar spice!"- Bubs

Forza Juve

"Who Watches The Watchmen?"

"I'm Learnding"

Top 5 Favourite Albums:

1. Kid A - Radiohead
2. Spiderland - Slint
3. Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven - Godspeed You! Black Emperor
4. Led Zeppelin IV - Led Zeppelin
5. Laughing Stock - Talk Talk

My DVD's: http://perrin-bubs-f-rch.dvdaf.com/owned

(in reply to wgamador)
Post #: 57
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 7:30:07 PM   
bubs


Posts: 8051
Joined: 18/7/2006
From: South Africa
 City Of God (2002)


Positives:

- The fast cuts are stylishly done.
- The Brazilian Pulp Fiction, only it's even better.
- The brutality of Lil Ze.
- The brilliant cinematography.
- The grainy picture that gives it a "crime" feel.
- All the seperate stories from seperate characters.
- The "vibey" soundtrack.
- The classic finale.
- The opening sequance.
- The real life clips at the end that show how close to fact the film was made.
- The film doesn't over-the-top blood in it. Still bloody though, but not "exagerrated" bloodiness.

Negatives:

- May lose it's original flair after plenty of viewings, unlikely though.
- Not for the "light hearted".
- Some scenes might turn off some viewers, eg. the light hearted, civil rights activists etc.

This is a brilliant example of what the World Cinema scene has to offer, with great performances all round and with some of the finest direction in modern cinema. This is an essential crime film that should be on your shelf with Goodfellas, Pulp Fiction and The Godfather. This is trully an astonishing piece of work and is a film you have to see at least once before dying. If you see it on sale, buy it. Don't let this get away from your collection, you wont be dissapointed.

Final Score: *****


_____________________________

"Shake it once, shake it twice! A' give me a little bit of sugar spice!"- Bubs

Forza Juve

"Who Watches The Watchmen?"

"I'm Learnding"

Top 5 Favourite Albums:

1. Kid A - Radiohead
2. Spiderland - Slint
3. Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven - Godspeed You! Black Emperor
4. Led Zeppelin IV - Led Zeppelin
5. Laughing Stock - Talk Talk

My DVD's: http://perrin-bubs-f-rch.dvdaf.com/owned

(in reply to bubs)
Post #: 58
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 7:32:30 PM   
*Jack of all Trades*


Posts: 5224
Joined: 15/10/2005
Night Watch (Nochnoi Dozor)
 



Positives:
  • Interesting, original fantasy idea (note - it was based on a book)
  • Elaborating on my previous point - some very surreal and weird features - eg the weird owl-woman Olga
  • Some good gripping action scenes, although quite bloody

Negatives
  • The soundtrack was kinda crap in places
  • Characters could be fleshed out a bit more

Overall rating - * * * *
 

_____________________________

OMG WTF KTHXBAI

(in reply to bubs)
Post #: 59
RE: Mini-Reviews....Woooo! - 2/10/2006 7:44:12 PM   
TheManWithNoShame


Posts: 6767
Joined: 1/8/2006
JFK
 
Positives

Excellent acting from all involved, especially Kevin Costner
Great script
Well developed characters
Really captures the sense of tension and paranoia going alone against the government could create
Outstanding use of cutting documentary footage with the film
Has a thought provoking message and haunts you afterwards
That courtroom speech
Oliver Stone's great directing
Superb editing

Negatives
 
Wondering whether if everything said is untrue then would it invalidate the whole point of the film


Overall score 5/5


_____________________________

sorry jbg :( i promise to stop being such a silly boy.

(in reply to *Jack of all Trades*)
Post #: 60
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