Billy Edwards Reviews

A Tale of Two Sisters (2003)

A Must for horror fans.

[10/10 · 18 August 2005]

This film is essential viewing for all horror fans. It's right up there with Ju-On and The Exorcist. The pacing in the beginning of this film starts out deliberately slow as to provide a false sense of security, but be warned, this is a truly frightening film. Every shot is deliberate. This is a work of art with layers upon layers. On the second viewing there is even more to catch. The director's use of color and lighting should be studied and give note to the outstanding use of symbolism. The performances are all first rate and multi-layered. Some of the nuances to their performances are extremely important clues as to the unraveling puzzle presented before you, so pay close attention.

Infernal Affairs (2002)

The Cream of Hong Kong Cinema.

[10/10 · 28 February 2004]

One's an undercover cop inside a Triad, the other is a undercover Triad inside the police force. Which one will expose the other first? Riveting drama throughout. Included in the package is a top-notch cast at the peak of their powers and expert direction. Did I mention this is also an allegory for a Buddhist hell? (If you don't know what hell is, just take a look at the surviving character at the end of the movie and you'll have a fairly good concept) Just when you think a genre has been done to death, something like this takes you by surprise. This is a must see film for anyone interested in delving much deeper than standard cop versus crook fair.

The Matrix Reloaded (2003)

Some people just don't get it.

[10/10 · 17 May 2003]

Okay, there's this movie. It has cool special effects, great characters, and a couple of great plot twists. So why do so many people don't like it? Expectations, plain and simple. The story didn't go where they wanted it to go, so they throw a temper tantrum. Sorry guys, next time just sit and enjoy the movie (and there is quite a bit to enjoy). The scene where Neo takes on about 100 Agent Smiths is one of the best martial arts action sequences ever put on film. The critics all complain about the characterization, yet I found the relationship between Neo and Trinity to be a pleasant surprise. The biggest laugh I've had yet is when reviewers say it has no plot, or that a certain plot twist involving `The Architect' was mumbo jumbo. It's obvious that they just didn't understand the plot twist or the whole philosophy of foreordination versus predestination, which is what this movie is actually about. Are we making choices for ourselves or are we just fated to walk along the path to our ultimate destiny and free choice is an illusion? This is the question posed by `The Matrix; Reloaded'. Many others are upset that this question ultimately went unanswered in this film, however, withhold your final judgment until `The Matrix; Revolution', because where as one film poses the question, I'm hoping that the next will provide an answer, thus turning the Matrix into a thesis on Freedom of Choice.

My Wife Is a Gangster (2001)

A fun little romp.

[10/10 · 12 March 2003]

Being totally unfamiliar with Korean cinema, I was pleasantly surprised. Not only was this a multi-culturally funny movie, but a great action adventure tale as well. My true surprise came with the depth of the characters, something sadly lacking in the Hollywood action/comedies. The acting was also first rate, especially within the ranks of the lead performers. If you are curious about Korean cinema, this is definitely a good starter piece. It certainly left me wanting to see more.

Halloween: Resurrection (2002)

Mediocrity at its finest.

[2/10 · 28 July 2002]

This is not the worst movie in the Halloween series. It is not the best either. Almost every horror cliché is used. The film might be of interest to horror fans who want to try and guess which parts of the movie were stolen from other films (and not just the original Halloween). Many large plot holes (including a scene where Michael Myers inexplicably spares someone's life when given the perfect opportunity to kill them), but does have a few good moments and can be fun, if you're in the right frame of mind. This sequel is neither an endorsement to continue the series, nor an excuse finish it off. It's just there.

The Powerpuff Girls Movie (2002)

A fun ride for adults as well as children.

[10/10 · 4 July 2002]

It's funny, trippy and entertaining. This film will make you a Powerpuff Girl fan, if you're not one already. Adults should play close attention to plays on words, such as the name of the donut place all the Townsville Police eat at.

Brigham City (2001)

An intriguing little thriller.

[10/10 · 23 February 2002]

I stumbled upon this movie accidentally at my local multiplex, as most people outside of Utah must have, and was in for a pleasant surprise. The characters were believable and far more interesting than any conventional thriller I've seen in recent years with a nod to several performances, especially Matthew A. Brown. Although shot on an independent budget, the film makers were more than competent, stretching their meager budget to create many memorable images. The movie is best when contrasting the Mormon lifestyle with unthinkable crimes. Unfortunately, the movie occasionally slows down when presenting Mormon theology(with all the subtly of a brick in the face), but ultimately, presents thought provoking issues which delve well beyond good versus evil.

Zu Warriors (2001)

Amazing.

[10/10 · 14 February 2002]

Visually stunning and full of Eastern Philosophy, this amazing martial arts fantasy is brought to you by master director Tsui Hark, the man behind some of the best films Hong Kong cinema has produced. The special effects are beautiful and imaginative. The plot is a bit on the cerebral side, but is a refreshing change from films that treat their audience as if they were morons. If thinking is not your forte, however, this may not be your movie. Maybe you should go see the latest from the Hollywood studio's no brain club, but if you are looking for something more, he's where you will find it.

A Chinese Ghost Story II (1990)

The laughs are back.

[10/10 · 31 January 2002]

Although a little shorter on plot than the first movie, this one might be a bit funnier. With the welcome additions of Jackie Cheung as a wandering ghost fighting Monk and the lovely Michelle Reis to the cast, the movie has even more Hong Kong star power than the last. Of course the chemistry between Leslie Cheung and Joey Wang is still there, and the film is funny and fast paced. If you liked the first movie, then put this on your must see list.

Ghost World (2001)

Some people just don't get it.

[10/10 · 8 September 2001]

Swimming through a sea mediocrity, one finally stumbles upon a summer movie worth the rising ticket prices, and then some. This is the story of Enid who graduates high school and thrust into real life, which includes drifting away from her best friend, Rebecca and falling for an older man named Seymour played by Steve Buscemi who was originally the butt of a cruel joke. Terry Zwigoff continues to prove that directing is easy, if you have talent and vision, which Zwigoff has in spades. Thora Birch and Steve Buscemi loose themselves so completely in their roles that its difficult to think of them in any other roles. The entire cast is amazing. Much has been said about the ending to this movie. I'll I will say is that it is very powerful, if understood. Skip the summer blockbusters and send your money this way.

Session 9 (2001)

A hell of a scare.

[10/10 · 21 August 2001]

I'm a sucker for a good scare. If you are too, this is a movie for you. If you don't like horror movies or movies that make you think, you should avoid this movie at all costs. The direction is tight. The actors are well cast and give realistic performances. The movie builds tension at a steady pace until a climatic payoff, which becomes even creepier after you've had time to think about it. Put this on your must see list if you want to make a horror film which scares people rather than wastes money with cheesy special effects.

Suspiria (1977)

As good as it gets.

[10/10 · 25 July 2001]

Holding out to see the top of Italian horror? Here it is. See why Dario Argento is considered a modern horror master. From beginning to end, he creates a disturbing mood, which will last long after the final frame. The story has since been ripped off countless times, but never pulled off quite so well. Yes, bad dubbing can be a distraction, but stick with it. Stick with uncut versions, as the edited versions tend to be choppy. And as a warning, Italian horror is for those with strong stomachs only.

The Wild Bunch (1969)

An influential and entertaining Western.

[10/10 · 15 June 2001]

This is one of those films that shook the world, influencing every action movie that came after it. Not only is it an important film, but its entertaining too. Very rare indeed. The visuals are jarring, and disturbing at times. The cast is in top form. The story has strong comments about loyalty and is one of the ultimate male bonding movies. Peckinpah's direction is flawless. Watch as he creates images that would be used over and over again in countless action clones. File this under `must see'.

Rabid Dogs (1974)

A masterwork of violence, irony and vulgarity.

[9/10 · 18 March 2001]

The master of Italian Horror, Mario Bava, makes a heist film that is equal parts violent, ironic and vulgar, most of which takes place in the claustrophobic atmosphere of a small car. Three robbers shot their way out of a police blockade by taking a woman hostage. They soon hijack a small automobile with a man and a sick child. Tension builds as power plays amid the crooks and escape attempts by the hostages lead to a violent conclusion which is both unexpected and ironic. Ranks with Dog Day Afternoon and Reservoir Dogs as a unique and disturbing heist film, with several scenes designed to make you squirm. A must for fans of both Bava and the genre.

The Other Conquest (1998)

The battle of the religious fanatics is on.

[8/10 · 17 June 2000]

La Otra Conquista is a contrast of two religions, one believes in sacrificing its own people to its Goddess and the other wants to seemingly sacrifice other peoples to the Mother of God. This makes for interesting contrast. It would have been far more interesting, had it delved further into how the Aztecs hid their religion inside the Catholic faith (Substituting their Goddess with the Virgin Mary, etc.), but this area was not fully explored. Damián Delgado shows, once again what an under appreciated actor he is and the beautiful Elpidia Carrillo gives another one of her performances that makes you wonder why the hell she isn't a household name. In fact, the whole cast does an exceptional job. In brief, it may not be as profound as it set out to be, but it's more than worth taking a look at.

The Haunting (1999)

Why can't Hollywood get it right?

[1/10 · 17 June 2000]

This is the kind of film that summarizes all my frustration with Hollywood film-making. Take a great cast, a good story, have it start out okay, then push it over the top with too many special effects, too many unbelievable plot twists and leave your audience feeling like they've been hustled by a pool shark. By the end of the movie, I found myself actually laughing (with the rest of the audience) at special effects that were supposed to be scary. Skip this movie and see the Sixth Sense, Stir of Echoes, The Blair Witch Project or even better... the ORIGINAL Haunting.

Titan A.E. (2000)

Something adults and kids will love.

[9/10 · 17 June 2000]

Titan starts out strong, then seems to linger in some of the predictable areas that science fiction action movies do. However, this is to lull the audience into a false sense of security, for there are quite a few unexpected twists along the way. The animation is fantastic, breath-taking in quite a few places. There is more than enough action to entertain both adults and children. Parents of younger children should be warned of some sexual content that might make them squirm, but otherwise, sit back and enjoy the ride.

Mission: Impossible II (2000)

The John Woo American film you've been waiting to see.

[6/10 · 17 June 2000]

Granted, it's not Hard-Boiled or The Killer, but Mission Impossible II is on par with the Hong Kong version of Once A Thief. John Woo is finally back on target with the kind of movie he's best at, pure escapist entertainment. The beginning of the movie could have been directed by any number of action directors, but the climax is pure John Woo. All the trademark visuals and stunts are here, although the violence has been toned down to receive a PG13 rating. The criticisms that Woo tries to turn Cruise into Chow Yun Fat are unfounded and started by those who have only seen Chow Yun Fat in Woo's work. This is pure Woo. I only hope that from here he can drive us back into the pure adrenaline rush of a "Hard-Boiled" R rated action film again.

A Chinese Ghost Story (1987)

Entertainment at it's peak.

[10/10 · 5 April 2000]

A mix of comedy, romance, music(?!), action and horror. A knockout. This is one of the reasons people rave about Hong Kong cinema. If you're looking for something totally original, look no further. Entertainment at it's peak.

Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai (1999)

A modern day samurai fights to retain his way of life.

[10/10 · 24 March 2000]

This is one of those films that will restore your faith in film making. Impossible to classify, being too thoughtful for an action movie and too violent for a drama. A delightful blend of so many genres as to make it a unique experience. Fans of the cast and director will be rewarded, others used to music video pacing and big loud explosions might be disappointed. Why can't movies like this break box office records?

Last Night (I) (1998)

Follows the stories of several people on the last night of humanity.

[10/10 · 9 December 1999]

Funny, touching and disturbing, this film has more to say about us as human beings than most films even attempt. The performances, script and direction all add up to a must see film. It is too bad this gem of a motion picture did not get the wide release it deserved.

Stigmata (1999)

The spirit of a priest possesses a girl in New York leaving her open to demonic attack.

[1/10 · 9 December 1999]

This film took two hours of my life that I will never get back and gave me only boredom in return. If you would like to see a music video about a "good" Catholic Priest possessing a woman (and deliberately causing her physical harm) to fight the evils within the Catholic church, then by God, this movie is for you.

Demons (1985)

In concordance with an ancient prophecy, demons attack movie patrons.

[7/10 · 9 December 1999]

Although some plot contrivances are distracting and the movie theater metaphor wears a bit thin, the movie is filled with frightening and disturbing imagery throughout. A very telling symbolic story of life in the eighties. Not for those with weak stomachs.