Reviews
Death of a Princess (1980)
Signs of the time.
When I first saw this docudrama in 1980, I was intrigued by the story. I was very much surprised that the Saudi government made an issue of this film. In essence, what goes in their country stays in their country.
I will agree that keeping internal matters is a private affair for a country. However, I will also agree that we can disagree in what goes on in that country.
Saudi Arabia is telling us to mind our own business when it comes to the moral affairs within that kingdom. But, Saudi Arabia should mind its own business in telling us -- the Western world -- how to conduct ourselves when it comes to freedom of expression.
If there is a story to be told, then we will tell it.
Donnie Darko (2001)
An interesting movie about one' s self.
It is unfortunate that this movie was a commercial disappointment. In Hollywood, the "formula" for a successful movie seems to be in making three times what is cost to produce that movie. "Donnie Darko" did not do it. This movie is an interesting interpretation about mental health / hygiene.
Whether or not one appreciates the status of one's emotional stability is NOT important. This movie captures the essence for those unfortunate ones suffering these afflictions.
Jake Gyllenahaal definitely gets to the emotional core of his character. And, much praise to Drew Barrymore and all for producing this film.
Whether we like it or not, one has to acknowledge that this is a widely studied, but highly treatable segment in our society.
Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Par excellence in relationships
"Brokeback Mountain" is an absolutely beautiful film in dealing in relationships. Indeed, one gets an excellent redeeming value from seeing this feature presentation. At last, a positive aspect is highlighted in what had been a "taboo / forbidden subject".
Adherents to the alternative life-style are an integral part of society. They are NOT going away. I stand corrected: WE are not going away. =) As a 40-year man, I only wish this movie was released between twenty (20) and thirty (30) years ago when I had been dealing with my self-realization.
Honestly and truly, "Brokeman Mountain" is the best movie made to date.
Edward II (1991)
Period Film it is NOT, but an interesting interpretation.
A history / political science major, I usually enjoy seeing "period" films of historical significance. This film would not qualify as a "period" film. However, it definitely drew my interest.
Both Steven Waddington and Tilda Swinton performed beautifully as Edward and Isabelle.
Although Derek Jarman is sadly no longer with us, I LQQK forward in viewing other films made by those directors who approximate his vision.
Hollywood Homicide (2003)
I link Harrison Ford; I like Josh Hartnett; I dislike this movie!
What I thought was going to a fine comedy turned to be not-so-fine film. Spoilers: Gangster-turn-record producer kills up-and-coming Rapster stars in order to keep them from terminating their contract.
Okay, good plot. What did Harrison Ford moonlighting a real estate broker and Josh Hartnett aspiring to be an actor HAVE anything to do with that plot.
Sorry, Harrison & Josh. Good luck next time.
Recommendation: wait until they premiere this film on network television. Then, write the network to have them pay you to see this awful film.
Angela's Ashes (1999)
One of the best movie which has a great redeeming value!
This movie is perhaps one of the best movies that tell a story that NO MATTER HOW terrible your life -- whether real or perceived -- may have been, you have the opportunity to self-evaluate and to self-adjust to whatever challanges that cross your path.
Personally, whenever I have a bad day, I watch this film to remind me that THAT day is in the past. And it wasn't so bad after all.
Great movie!!!
Lovely & Amazing (2001)
I can appreciate a "chick flick"; however, I cannot for this film.
As a 38-year old man, I usually enjoy seeing "chick flicks". Unfortunately, I could not relate to this mother-daughters relationship. Honestly, I only saw this film because of Jake Gyllenhaal and Dermot Mulroney
To producers, writers and director of this film, good luck on your next artistic endeavor.
The Quiet American (2002)
Memorizing & powerful film
In seeing this film, I saw several parallels with "The Year of Living Dangerously", 1982 film with Mel Gibson and Sigourney Weaver. Rather than divulge plots of either film, I will say that I appreciate a good period film, even it is fiction.
A political science and history major, I enjoy good stories draped along with historical events.
Mission to Mars (2000)
Some say we should send men to Mars; after this movie, NOT!!!
Although this was not the worst movie in 2000, it definitely is one that I should have seen as a "re-run" on network television several years from now. While the Van Halen-accompanied "space dance" was awesome, the movie completely bombed immediately after the micro-meteor ripped through the spacecraft.
I had no idea what that scene was all about until a friend clarify it for me. I'm not a mind-reader.
Picture Mommy Dead (1966)
An unhorror, campy film!
During the early 1970's, channel 05 (KTLA-TV) showed the same movie during an entire week. This film was one of them.
I always enjoy this un-horror film. It was enjoyable seeing the extravagant life-style of a privileged, but not-so-wealthy dysfunctional family.
The late Don Ameche and the not-so-late Zsa Zsa Gabor were a delight. I highly recommend this film for those over 30 years of age.
Just Married (2003)
Thank you "Just Married" in highlighting Marriage.
A perpetual bachelor, I can honestly say that I will never marry. However, reared as a Roman Catholic, I respect the concept of marriage. So sad that too many immature men and women never work in making marriages work nowadays. In seeing this movie, it's absolutely fantastic seeing young people, like these two characters, at least trying to make their marriage last.
Best wishes to this movie becoming a blockbuster.
A Guy Thing (2003)
Not a really Great Movie, but not a really Terrible movie.
I would rate this movie five out of 10...5/10. As a native of Orange County, California, my compliments to Jason Lee. He has charisma and potential to be a decent, long-termed actor. I very much enjoyed his performance in "Mumford". What made this movie worthwhile were Julie Hagerty and Diana Scarwid.
Good luck next time, Jason, in making a better movie. =)
Xanadu (1980)
Dawn of the 80's!
I was not able to watch this movie during its theatrical release in 1980. The first time that I had seen it when it featured on "ON TV" -- an early Los Angeles cable television station.
I LOVE this film. As a fifteen-year old at the time, it was symbolic what was to come during the 1980's. It was upbeat and terrific.
Olivia Newton-John and E.L.O. were the best that I have seen and heard at the time.
I watch this movie and listen to the music over-and-over again to bring back those pleasant memories.
Mayflower Madam (1987)
A rather entertaining field about a rather delightful Lady!
Although I have read the book about the "Mayflower Madam," I can honestly say this made-for-television movie is not a faithful adaptation of that non-fiction literary work. However, it was both entertaining and provocative. I highly sympathize with Miss Barrows. Though I wouldn't say that this film advocates the legalization of the "escort" profession, it did make feel why does our Society have to demonize it so much. It is, after all, a profession to cater and to be catered by mature adults.
Par excellence performance by Candice Bergen.
Treasure Planet (2002)
Disappointing Disney film.
Although I'm single and not a parent, I found this movie to be inappropriate for children for the following reasons: 1.) Absent father; 2.) Mutant space pirates destroying the livelihood of the Mother; 3.) Mutant crew Member killing the Ship's First Mate; and 4.) and Doomsday destruction of planet to protect "treasures" violently stolen from innocent persons. Walt Disney would be turning his grave if he knew things got things out-of-hand at Walt Disney Studios.