This movie reminds me of "In the bedroom" from a few years ago. Both movies are a product of publicity engines! This movie is not that good. It is entirely boring and too long. I waited until the middle of the movie for something to happen. When the wife sees them kissing, everyone in the theater gasped, but then we had to wait another hour before she confronted him with it, which was the only interesting scene. And the dialouge was stupid at times. "Why can't I quit you?" I just don't get the love story. It seemed much more about lust and perversion than love. And by the way, a movie that exploited that lust and perversion would have been better to watch.
Reviews
12 Reviews
Panic Room
(2002)
Old-Fashioned Thriller
30 March 2002
Like the Mountain Dew commercial says, `been there, done that,' Panic Room is reminiscent of a movie from yesteryear. It is quite simply an old-fashioned thriller. The plot is simple, the characters are stereotypical, and of course all ends well.
Panic Room is the new film from young director David Fincher. Fincher was a very successful music video director that went on to direct standout movies Se7en, The Game, and Fight Club. Panic Room, however, does not live up to his `hot' reputation. One thing that all of his previous movies have in common is that they all have surprising plot twists in the end. Panic Room does not delivery any such twists. It comes off as a simple thriller that does not take any chances.
Panic Room is equipped with a very good cast: Jodie Foster, Forest Whitaker, Jared Leto (who was great in Requiem for a Dream), and the quirky Dwight Yoakum. They all turn in satisfactory performances, however, none standout playing the one-dimensional characters provided to them.
Panic Room starts with an interesting premise, and it is has you on the edge of your seat in parts, however it will soon be forgotten. This is definitely a disappointed from Fincher. I expected a much more frightening thriller with an `edgy' quality, not this old-fashioned movie with some flashy camera shots. In this day and age, it takes a lot more to shock or scare me.
5/10
Panic Room is the new film from young director David Fincher. Fincher was a very successful music video director that went on to direct standout movies Se7en, The Game, and Fight Club. Panic Room, however, does not live up to his `hot' reputation. One thing that all of his previous movies have in common is that they all have surprising plot twists in the end. Panic Room does not delivery any such twists. It comes off as a simple thriller that does not take any chances.
Panic Room is equipped with a very good cast: Jodie Foster, Forest Whitaker, Jared Leto (who was great in Requiem for a Dream), and the quirky Dwight Yoakum. They all turn in satisfactory performances, however, none standout playing the one-dimensional characters provided to them.
Panic Room starts with an interesting premise, and it is has you on the edge of your seat in parts, however it will soon be forgotten. This is definitely a disappointed from Fincher. I expected a much more frightening thriller with an `edgy' quality, not this old-fashioned movie with some flashy camera shots. In this day and age, it takes a lot more to shock or scare me.
5/10
The Accountant
(2001)
This is a must see!
30 March 2002
I saw this film with all of the other nominated short films. The Accountant was clearly the best. I was so glad that Ray Mckinnon won for this film. It was a breath of fresh air. It was funny, plausible, and thought provoking. I hope it is available for viewing on the internet someday.
Moulin Rouge!
(2001)
Creative Misfire
23 February 2002
What a weird movie. It's like `The Wizard of OZ' on drugs. Baz Luhrmann, co-writer and director, and Craig Pearce, co-writer, have created an utterly, decadent fantasy that pushes the envelope of the imagination. This movie is a testament that there are no boundaries when making a movie these days. The computer-generated images of the Moulin Rouge and Paris in 1900 are fascinating. The camera shots that seem to have no seams, zoom through the city, and come to a close-up of an actor are great.
However, I can't say I enjoyed `Moulin Rouge' that much. It just seemed way too busy, and it could have been better without all of the silliness. The love story that is central in the plot, was, in fact, interesting and touching, but unfortunately there are too many campy distractions.
While watching `Moulin Rouge', it reminded me of a couple of movies. The first that I thought of was 1996's `Romeo + Juliet'. I later found out found that he co-wrote and directed it as well. The second I thought of was the Beatles' `Help' because of the playfulness and zaniness of some of the scenes. So if you liked the style of `Romeo + Juliet', you may enjoy `Moulin Rouge'.
The music and songs were good and bad at times. Luhrmann and Pearce take famous songs and blend them to create some interesting medleys. Many artists are sampled, from Nirvana to Dolly Parton. Madonna, the Beatles, and Elton John also have large chunks of songs thrown in. The combinations are not always great but are original. My favorite scene in the movie is when Christian (Ewan McGregor) is trying to convince Satine (Nicole Kidman) that they should be lovers. Christian and Satine sing lyrics from famous love songs, while they are in on top of her elephant-shaped apartment (yes, she lives in an elephant). They end up singing David Bowie's "Heroes" (great song).
McGregor is outstanding, as the aptly named, Christian; the poet who falls in love with the most sought after prostitute at the Moulin Rouge. His singing voice is good, and he handled his dramatic scenes very well.
Kidman is Satine; the hooker that falls for the poet and suddenly develops morals (the hooker with the heart of gold). I have never liked Kidman, and I have a hard time believing that Satine was the most popular prostitute. I don't see it. She does sing well, however. If you are a fan, you should like this new dimension of her.
The best performance in the film was by Jim Broadbent, as Harold Zidler, the owner and pimp' of the Moulin Rouge. He was great. He reminded me of the wizard in the "Wizard of OZ". He was funny and he sang well.
The bottom line is that I am glad I saw this movie, however the craziness and silliness was taken too far for my tastes. I wish Luhrmann had made a more serious movie that was consistent with the love story. I can, however, appreciate the creativity and work that went into this movie; it is quite an accomplishment. I think if you are a fan of Broadway musicals, you should like it.
6 out of 10
However, I can't say I enjoyed `Moulin Rouge' that much. It just seemed way too busy, and it could have been better without all of the silliness. The love story that is central in the plot, was, in fact, interesting and touching, but unfortunately there are too many campy distractions.
While watching `Moulin Rouge', it reminded me of a couple of movies. The first that I thought of was 1996's `Romeo + Juliet'. I later found out found that he co-wrote and directed it as well. The second I thought of was the Beatles' `Help' because of the playfulness and zaniness of some of the scenes. So if you liked the style of `Romeo + Juliet', you may enjoy `Moulin Rouge'.
The music and songs were good and bad at times. Luhrmann and Pearce take famous songs and blend them to create some interesting medleys. Many artists are sampled, from Nirvana to Dolly Parton. Madonna, the Beatles, and Elton John also have large chunks of songs thrown in. The combinations are not always great but are original. My favorite scene in the movie is when Christian (Ewan McGregor) is trying to convince Satine (Nicole Kidman) that they should be lovers. Christian and Satine sing lyrics from famous love songs, while they are in on top of her elephant-shaped apartment (yes, she lives in an elephant). They end up singing David Bowie's "Heroes" (great song).
McGregor is outstanding, as the aptly named, Christian; the poet who falls in love with the most sought after prostitute at the Moulin Rouge. His singing voice is good, and he handled his dramatic scenes very well.
Kidman is Satine; the hooker that falls for the poet and suddenly develops morals (the hooker with the heart of gold). I have never liked Kidman, and I have a hard time believing that Satine was the most popular prostitute. I don't see it. She does sing well, however. If you are a fan, you should like this new dimension of her.
The best performance in the film was by Jim Broadbent, as Harold Zidler, the owner and pimp' of the Moulin Rouge. He was great. He reminded me of the wizard in the "Wizard of OZ". He was funny and he sang well.
The bottom line is that I am glad I saw this movie, however the craziness and silliness was taken too far for my tastes. I wish Luhrmann had made a more serious movie that was consistent with the love story. I can, however, appreciate the creativity and work that went into this movie; it is quite an accomplishment. I think if you are a fan of Broadway musicals, you should like it.
6 out of 10
Monster's Ball
(2001)
Great Performances
20 February 2002
`Monster's Ball' is a very good movie that tells the story of two people that need each other.
Billy Bob Thornton plays Hank, a corrections officer that has a rebirth during the movie. He lives with his sickly father, Buck (Peter Boyle), who is a retired corrections officer, and his son, Sonny (Heath Ledger), who is a new corrections officer that works for Hank. Hank comes to realize that he has been living the life his father, Buck, has wanted for him. It takes a tragedy to open his eyes, however, with the help of Leticia (Halle Berry) he comes alive as a compassionate man. Hank is the hero of the movie. Thornton is excellent in this role.
Berry plays the wife of a man (Sean Puffy' Combs) that is executed. Her life is devastated through a series of unfortunate events. When she is at her weakest moment, Hank comes to her rescue. Hank becomes her savior. Berry gives all that she has in this dramatic role and delivers with an excellent performance befitting of her Oscar nomination. There are many dramatic scenes that Leticia must endure. The product is very good acting. My only problem with her performance was that she has perfect teeth. Her character would not have had that Hollywood' smile, which is slight overlook by Marc Forster, the director.
Ledger is also very good in his role. However, his character was not in the movie very much. I would have liked to see more about him.
Bottom line is that `Monster's Ball' is a good movie that is hard to watch at times but is also funny at times. Berry's performance really is the surprise of the movie. I loved the final scene in this movie. It is a great accomplishment for Forster, directing his first major movie.
8 out of 10
Billy Bob Thornton plays Hank, a corrections officer that has a rebirth during the movie. He lives with his sickly father, Buck (Peter Boyle), who is a retired corrections officer, and his son, Sonny (Heath Ledger), who is a new corrections officer that works for Hank. Hank comes to realize that he has been living the life his father, Buck, has wanted for him. It takes a tragedy to open his eyes, however, with the help of Leticia (Halle Berry) he comes alive as a compassionate man. Hank is the hero of the movie. Thornton is excellent in this role.
Berry plays the wife of a man (Sean Puffy' Combs) that is executed. Her life is devastated through a series of unfortunate events. When she is at her weakest moment, Hank comes to her rescue. Hank becomes her savior. Berry gives all that she has in this dramatic role and delivers with an excellent performance befitting of her Oscar nomination. There are many dramatic scenes that Leticia must endure. The product is very good acting. My only problem with her performance was that she has perfect teeth. Her character would not have had that Hollywood' smile, which is slight overlook by Marc Forster, the director.
Ledger is also very good in his role. However, his character was not in the movie very much. I would have liked to see more about him.
Bottom line is that `Monster's Ball' is a good movie that is hard to watch at times but is also funny at times. Berry's performance really is the surprise of the movie. I loved the final scene in this movie. It is a great accomplishment for Forster, directing his first major movie.
8 out of 10
In the Bedroom
(2001)
Never Underestimate the Power of the Miramax Propaganda Machine
17 February 2002
Miramax has somehow convinced a lot of people that this is a good movie. Well, it's not! I can't believe all of the nominations that this movie has garnered. I can't imagine anyone would think that this is a `Best Picture' contender. This movie is boring and frustrating.
First of all, this movie will put you to sleep. You had better stop off at Starbucks before you go see this one. It is a very slowly paced movie. It felt like it was the longest movie I had ever seen. It takes so long for anything to happen. The whole movie is like one big dramatic pause.
Secondly, does Todd Field have any clue on how to direct? It is not interesting to watch actors just sitting around watching T.V., or listening to the radio! As a director, one must ask, `what does this scene add?' Showing people watching T.V., listening to the radio, and mowing the lawn added nothing. I think he was trying to show how these people never talked and grew apart. I sorry, but that is not interesting. Too many times I think Field was way off-base with some of the scenes. Field also interupts some potentially good scenes with insignificant characters that add nothing to the story. It was just boring. I kept hoping that something interesting was going to happen next, and it never did. The dramatic climaxes were too few and cut short. For instance the eventual confrontation between Spacek and Tomei was almost no dialogue and only about 30 seconds.
Field did not present his characters well enough to have me care about them at all. The character I liked the most, Frank Fowler, played well by Nick Stahl, was robbed of his climactic scene and gone too soon.
Marissa Tomei, as Natalie Strout (Fowler's girlfriend), somehow was nominated as `Best Supporting Actress.' Tomei is a good actress that did not have enough good scenes. She disappears for much of the movie. Fowler and Strout's relationship was not explained enough. How did they meet? Is she a slut? Why is she getting divorced? If she was abused by her husband, why didn't she call the police sooner? Too many questions that Field left unanswered.
I honestly cannot believe that this movie was so critically acclaimed, and I think it just makes me hate it more. Sissy Spacek, Tom Wilkinson, and Marissa Tomei were all fine in their roles, however Field and his script failed. In my eyes, none of them deserved nominations. Miramax must have sold their soles to the devil to get so many nominations.
And for some strange reason, Tom Wilkinson's character, Dr. Matt Fowler, has poker buddies that recite poetry. Guys do not get together to drink beer, play poker, and recite poetry! Maine must be the `Twilight Zone!'
3 out of 10
First of all, this movie will put you to sleep. You had better stop off at Starbucks before you go see this one. It is a very slowly paced movie. It felt like it was the longest movie I had ever seen. It takes so long for anything to happen. The whole movie is like one big dramatic pause.
Secondly, does Todd Field have any clue on how to direct? It is not interesting to watch actors just sitting around watching T.V., or listening to the radio! As a director, one must ask, `what does this scene add?' Showing people watching T.V., listening to the radio, and mowing the lawn added nothing. I think he was trying to show how these people never talked and grew apart. I sorry, but that is not interesting. Too many times I think Field was way off-base with some of the scenes. Field also interupts some potentially good scenes with insignificant characters that add nothing to the story. It was just boring. I kept hoping that something interesting was going to happen next, and it never did. The dramatic climaxes were too few and cut short. For instance the eventual confrontation between Spacek and Tomei was almost no dialogue and only about 30 seconds.
Field did not present his characters well enough to have me care about them at all. The character I liked the most, Frank Fowler, played well by Nick Stahl, was robbed of his climactic scene and gone too soon.
Marissa Tomei, as Natalie Strout (Fowler's girlfriend), somehow was nominated as `Best Supporting Actress.' Tomei is a good actress that did not have enough good scenes. She disappears for much of the movie. Fowler and Strout's relationship was not explained enough. How did they meet? Is she a slut? Why is she getting divorced? If she was abused by her husband, why didn't she call the police sooner? Too many questions that Field left unanswered.
I honestly cannot believe that this movie was so critically acclaimed, and I think it just makes me hate it more. Sissy Spacek, Tom Wilkinson, and Marissa Tomei were all fine in their roles, however Field and his script failed. In my eyes, none of them deserved nominations. Miramax must have sold their soles to the devil to get so many nominations.
And for some strange reason, Tom Wilkinson's character, Dr. Matt Fowler, has poker buddies that recite poetry. Guys do not get together to drink beer, play poker, and recite poetry! Maine must be the `Twilight Zone!'
3 out of 10
Black Hawk Down
(2001)
Amazing Battle Scenes
14 February 2002
WOW! I can't imagine what it took to make this film. It was so realistic! It is definitely an impressive accomplishment director Ridley Scott. The fighting scenes were very believable. I am guessing that they actually filmed it on location in Somalia, if not, then it is an amazing recreation. Nearly the whole movie is action from the failed 1993 mission. `Black Hawk' is definitely one of the best-recreated battles of all time. The action is well filmed.
`Black Hawk' is about a failed mission, so it is somewhat critical of our military. The movie portrays Major General William Garrison, played by Sam Shepard, somewhat negatively. Obviously, it was his plan that failed and cost our soldiers' lives. The movie also implies that the United States would have been better prepared had they notified the Pakistani military of the raid, or had General Garrison had a contingency plan in place to rescue the troops if they came upon enemy fire. The troops were trapped in the hostile zone, and they had to wait for hours before being rescued. They underestimated the enemy and had poor communication while in battle, which spelled disaster for the U.S. military. However, the men that fought are truly heroes. The soldiers' `don't leave anyone behind' attitude is something to respect and admire.
I did have some minor problems with the movie. While all of the actors gave great performances, the script was corny at times. For example, Ewan McGregor's character, Specialist Danny Grimes, kept talking about making coffee throughout the whole movie, as sort of a running gag. The script was straight forward, `in battle' dialogue. For example, there was the usual dialogue about how a soldier should not question an order; he should just follow the orders.
Another thing that annoyed me about the movie was the use of many of the same actors from other war movies. It was like watching all of the other movies all together, and made "Black Hawk" less distinct. Josh Hartnet, as young Staff Sergeant Matt Eversmann, was in Pearl Harbor as well. Hartnet was actually very good in Black Hawk. And there are two other lesser-known actors that you will recognize from Pearl Harbor.
Tom Sizemore, who plays Lt. Colonel Danny McKnight, was also in Pearl Harbor as well as Saving Private Ryan. Sizemore plays the ultimate macho-man. Somehow he is never concerned about any of the thousands of Somalis that are shooting at him. While the rest of the soldiers are taking cover and running, he never ducks or tries to get out of the way. And, of course, they never manage to shoot him. Well, he does get grazed on his neck. I was excited to see Australian actor Eric Bana. Bana plays Sergeant 1st Class Norm "Hoot" Hooten. He is a tough guy, hero type that is a fearless, yet humble, soldier. Bana is a rising star that is destined to be a star, like fellow countryman Russell Crowe. Bana was in "Chopper" last year, which was a good movie about infamous serial killer, Mark 'Chopper' Read. Bana was great as 'Chopper', and I was pleasantly surprised with his performance in Black Hawk.
The bottom line is that this is a serious `guy' movie with some awesome fighting scenes, and it makes our guys look like heroes, despite failing to accomplish their objective. It is well worth the 143 minutes. 8 of 10
`Black Hawk' is about a failed mission, so it is somewhat critical of our military. The movie portrays Major General William Garrison, played by Sam Shepard, somewhat negatively. Obviously, it was his plan that failed and cost our soldiers' lives. The movie also implies that the United States would have been better prepared had they notified the Pakistani military of the raid, or had General Garrison had a contingency plan in place to rescue the troops if they came upon enemy fire. The troops were trapped in the hostile zone, and they had to wait for hours before being rescued. They underestimated the enemy and had poor communication while in battle, which spelled disaster for the U.S. military. However, the men that fought are truly heroes. The soldiers' `don't leave anyone behind' attitude is something to respect and admire.
I did have some minor problems with the movie. While all of the actors gave great performances, the script was corny at times. For example, Ewan McGregor's character, Specialist Danny Grimes, kept talking about making coffee throughout the whole movie, as sort of a running gag. The script was straight forward, `in battle' dialogue. For example, there was the usual dialogue about how a soldier should not question an order; he should just follow the orders.
Another thing that annoyed me about the movie was the use of many of the same actors from other war movies. It was like watching all of the other movies all together, and made "Black Hawk" less distinct. Josh Hartnet, as young Staff Sergeant Matt Eversmann, was in Pearl Harbor as well. Hartnet was actually very good in Black Hawk. And there are two other lesser-known actors that you will recognize from Pearl Harbor.
Tom Sizemore, who plays Lt. Colonel Danny McKnight, was also in Pearl Harbor as well as Saving Private Ryan. Sizemore plays the ultimate macho-man. Somehow he is never concerned about any of the thousands of Somalis that are shooting at him. While the rest of the soldiers are taking cover and running, he never ducks or tries to get out of the way. And, of course, they never manage to shoot him. Well, he does get grazed on his neck. I was excited to see Australian actor Eric Bana. Bana plays Sergeant 1st Class Norm "Hoot" Hooten. He is a tough guy, hero type that is a fearless, yet humble, soldier. Bana is a rising star that is destined to be a star, like fellow countryman Russell Crowe. Bana was in "Chopper" last year, which was a good movie about infamous serial killer, Mark 'Chopper' Read. Bana was great as 'Chopper', and I was pleasantly surprised with his performance in Black Hawk.
The bottom line is that this is a serious `guy' movie with some awesome fighting scenes, and it makes our guys look like heroes, despite failing to accomplish their objective. It is well worth the 143 minutes. 8 of 10
The Anniversary Party
(2001)
Great Movie...unexpectedly good
14 February 2002
What is it like to attend a party with famous people in Hollywood? `The Anniversary Party' will answer that question and take you into the personal lives of a famous actress and her husband, a famous novelist that just got the green light to direct his first movie. Jennifer Jason Leigh is Sally Nash and Alan Cummings is her husband, Joe Therrian. Sally and Joe have recently reconciled their relationship, and it's their 6th wedding anniversary, and they celebrate by having their friends over to their home in the Hollywood hills. What transpires is funny, sad, and just plain interesting. Cummings and Leigh show us that the rich and famous are just like everyone else. Everyone has their own set of problems, and there's nothing like alcohol and drugs to bring it all out in front of your friends.
Cummings and Leigh are the writers and directors of the film. Both do a great job acting and directing. They do a great job of making a very intimate feeling movie. It is a low budget, independent movie that is shot with digital cameras, which has become a trend in movie making to save money on film and cameras. This is the type of movie that will give hope to aspiring filmmakers that have a small budget. You don't need special effects and action to make a great movie, just genuine human drama and great acting.
Phoebe Cates (one of my celebrity crushes that I had when I was young see `Fast Times at Ridgemont High') turns up as Sophia Gold, the wife of the Academy Award winning actor Cal Gold, played by her real-life husband, Kevin Kline. She is an actress that stopped working to raise her two kids (similar to her real-life story). Their real-life kids are also in the movie. She is terrific in the role and she still looks good to me.
Gwyneth Paltrow plays, Skye Davidson, a sexy (although I don't think she's that hot) young actress that Joe has chosen to play the lead in his upcoming movie, which is based on his wife, Sally. Skye is star-struck when meeting Joe and Sally. Sally, however, is jealous and angry that Joe would pick such a `stinking, f***ing actress' actress to play her in the movie, and that he invited her to their party.
Jane Adams II is also among the ensemble cast. Adams was a real standout in the Todd Solondz movie `Happiness', and she is terrific playing a neurotic actress that lets herself go during the party.
Parker Posey, John C. Reilly, and Jennifer Beals round out this eclectic cast.
A new actress, Mina Badie (Leigh's real-life half-sister), is a standout as the wife of the `neighbors from hell'.
This is a great first movie for Leigh and Cummings. It makes you wonder how close to autobiographical it may be. For the most part, I really enjoyed going to their party, however there are times when you wish you could leave the party early, then the drugs break out and things heat up. I really liked it. 9 out of 10
Cummings and Leigh are the writers and directors of the film. Both do a great job acting and directing. They do a great job of making a very intimate feeling movie. It is a low budget, independent movie that is shot with digital cameras, which has become a trend in movie making to save money on film and cameras. This is the type of movie that will give hope to aspiring filmmakers that have a small budget. You don't need special effects and action to make a great movie, just genuine human drama and great acting.
Phoebe Cates (one of my celebrity crushes that I had when I was young see `Fast Times at Ridgemont High') turns up as Sophia Gold, the wife of the Academy Award winning actor Cal Gold, played by her real-life husband, Kevin Kline. She is an actress that stopped working to raise her two kids (similar to her real-life story). Their real-life kids are also in the movie. She is terrific in the role and she still looks good to me.
Gwyneth Paltrow plays, Skye Davidson, a sexy (although I don't think she's that hot) young actress that Joe has chosen to play the lead in his upcoming movie, which is based on his wife, Sally. Skye is star-struck when meeting Joe and Sally. Sally, however, is jealous and angry that Joe would pick such a `stinking, f***ing actress' actress to play her in the movie, and that he invited her to their party.
Jane Adams II is also among the ensemble cast. Adams was a real standout in the Todd Solondz movie `Happiness', and she is terrific playing a neurotic actress that lets herself go during the party.
Parker Posey, John C. Reilly, and Jennifer Beals round out this eclectic cast.
A new actress, Mina Badie (Leigh's real-life half-sister), is a standout as the wife of the `neighbors from hell'.
This is a great first movie for Leigh and Cummings. It makes you wonder how close to autobiographical it may be. For the most part, I really enjoyed going to their party, however there are times when you wish you could leave the party early, then the drugs break out and things heat up. I really liked it. 9 out of 10
Freddy Got Fingered
(2001)
Insane, Funny, and Stupid
29 January 2002
I can't believe what I just saw! Tom Greene has made a movie that is outrageous, disgusting, and stupid. It was also very funny at times. True Tom Greene fans should enjoy the movie. He has created a movie to annoy and gross-out the audience.
Tom Greene plays Gord Brody, a 28 year-old unemployed aspiring animator that lives in the basement of his parent's house. Gord's father, Jim, played by long-time great character actor Rip Torn, is going crazy because Gord does not have a job and won't move out. For some strange reason, Gord accuses Jim of sexually molesting his younger brother, 25 year-old Freddy, hence the name "Freddy Got Fingered". And for some strange reason, the psychologists and the police actually believe him, so they take Freddy away to a hospital for sexual abuse children. Sound pretty stupid? It is.
Melissa Coughlan is terrific as Betty, Gord's girlfriend. I think Betty was the best character of the movie. She is a paraplegic that is unexpected funny. While the rest of the cast had "straight-man" roles next to Tom Greene, Coughlan's Betty actually had Gord in some uncomfortable situations. It was a pleasant surprise to see the tables turned on Tom Greene.
I do have to applaud the sheer insaneness of some of the scenes. Tom Greene reminds me of the late Andy Kaufman at times. You could also draw comparisons to Monty Python. I could not keep from laughing at things you should not laugh at. The humor is crude and offensive. In this day and age of the gross-out comedies, Tom Greene has outdone them all. I just wish that the plot and script had been more intelligent. "Freddy Got Fingered" is a some funny scenes that Greene tries to pass off as a movie. There is also cameo appearance from a well-known professional athlete that is great. 5/10
Tom Greene plays Gord Brody, a 28 year-old unemployed aspiring animator that lives in the basement of his parent's house. Gord's father, Jim, played by long-time great character actor Rip Torn, is going crazy because Gord does not have a job and won't move out. For some strange reason, Gord accuses Jim of sexually molesting his younger brother, 25 year-old Freddy, hence the name "Freddy Got Fingered". And for some strange reason, the psychologists and the police actually believe him, so they take Freddy away to a hospital for sexual abuse children. Sound pretty stupid? It is.
Melissa Coughlan is terrific as Betty, Gord's girlfriend. I think Betty was the best character of the movie. She is a paraplegic that is unexpected funny. While the rest of the cast had "straight-man" roles next to Tom Greene, Coughlan's Betty actually had Gord in some uncomfortable situations. It was a pleasant surprise to see the tables turned on Tom Greene.
I do have to applaud the sheer insaneness of some of the scenes. Tom Greene reminds me of the late Andy Kaufman at times. You could also draw comparisons to Monty Python. I could not keep from laughing at things you should not laugh at. The humor is crude and offensive. In this day and age of the gross-out comedies, Tom Greene has outdone them all. I just wish that the plot and script had been more intelligent. "Freddy Got Fingered" is a some funny scenes that Greene tries to pass off as a movie. There is also cameo appearance from a well-known professional athlete that is great. 5/10
Gandhi
(1982)
Beautiful Film
29 January 2002
"The object of this massive tribute died as he had always lived, without wealth, without property, without official title or office. Mahatma Gandhi was not the commander of armies, nor the ruler of vast lands. He could not boast any scientific achievement or artistic gift. Yet men, governments, dignitaries from all over the world, have joined hands today to pay homage to the little brown man in the loin cloth, who led his country to freedom."
This quote is from the funeral scene in the 1982 film "Gandhi". Richard Attenborough directed this massive epic about the man that freed India. The film opens with Gandhi's assassination. The next scene, his funeral, is one of the greatest scenes in cinematic history. Attenborough managed to recreate Gandhi's funeral on January 31st, 1981, the 33rd anniversary of the actual funeral. It is estimated that nearly 400,000 people were on hand to be a part of the filming the recreation. This film was made before CGI (computer generated images), so the funeral scene is probably the last live action crowd of that magnitude that will ever be filmed.
Mahatma Gandhi's message of non-violent resistance is delivered in an interesting and enthralling body of art. This film has made and will make millions of people aware of the little brown man that took on the British Empire and won. "Gandhi" serves both as entertainment and an important historical record of one of the most important figures in history.
Ben Kingsley played Gandhi. He was the perfect for the role. He resembled the real Gandhi. He was young enough to portray Gandhi as a young man. He is a British actor that nailed the British influenced Indian accent. He is a wonderful actor that was patient and humble with such an important part. And he was a relatively unknown actor at the time, so the "big-time actor" persona did not get in the way of viewing the film. He did win both the Academy Award and Golden Globe for best actor, for this role, which I agree he deserved. He became Gandhi.
The cinematography was outstanding. Attenborough filmed "Gandhi" on location in India. The scenes of India are spectacular, and India is very much another character in the film. This film is as much about India itself as it is about Gandhi. Attenborough shows the audience the people of India from its countryside to the vast city of Calcutta. It is suggested by Kingsley, on the DVD, that Attenborough had a difficult time with the elite class in India at the time of filming. They were against the making of such a film by an Englishman. Undeterred by their negative thinking, he persevered to enlist thousands of Indians to help make this film. Every crowd scene, he used real Indians from the area. Attenborough also won both the Academy Award and Golden Globe for best direction.
This movie is a must see for everyone. It should be required viewing in high schools, as part of History class. The fight against prejudice will forever be relevant. It is also a beautiful work of art. This movie is not tainted by the embellishment of Hollywood (see "Pearl Harbor" for that). Of course, it would have been hard to screw up a movie about such a great man. 10/10
This quote is from the funeral scene in the 1982 film "Gandhi". Richard Attenborough directed this massive epic about the man that freed India. The film opens with Gandhi's assassination. The next scene, his funeral, is one of the greatest scenes in cinematic history. Attenborough managed to recreate Gandhi's funeral on January 31st, 1981, the 33rd anniversary of the actual funeral. It is estimated that nearly 400,000 people were on hand to be a part of the filming the recreation. This film was made before CGI (computer generated images), so the funeral scene is probably the last live action crowd of that magnitude that will ever be filmed.
Mahatma Gandhi's message of non-violent resistance is delivered in an interesting and enthralling body of art. This film has made and will make millions of people aware of the little brown man that took on the British Empire and won. "Gandhi" serves both as entertainment and an important historical record of one of the most important figures in history.
Ben Kingsley played Gandhi. He was the perfect for the role. He resembled the real Gandhi. He was young enough to portray Gandhi as a young man. He is a British actor that nailed the British influenced Indian accent. He is a wonderful actor that was patient and humble with such an important part. And he was a relatively unknown actor at the time, so the "big-time actor" persona did not get in the way of viewing the film. He did win both the Academy Award and Golden Globe for best actor, for this role, which I agree he deserved. He became Gandhi.
The cinematography was outstanding. Attenborough filmed "Gandhi" on location in India. The scenes of India are spectacular, and India is very much another character in the film. This film is as much about India itself as it is about Gandhi. Attenborough shows the audience the people of India from its countryside to the vast city of Calcutta. It is suggested by Kingsley, on the DVD, that Attenborough had a difficult time with the elite class in India at the time of filming. They were against the making of such a film by an Englishman. Undeterred by their negative thinking, he persevered to enlist thousands of Indians to help make this film. Every crowd scene, he used real Indians from the area. Attenborough also won both the Academy Award and Golden Globe for best direction.
This movie is a must see for everyone. It should be required viewing in high schools, as part of History class. The fight against prejudice will forever be relevant. It is also a beautiful work of art. This movie is not tainted by the embellishment of Hollywood (see "Pearl Harbor" for that). Of course, it would have been hard to screw up a movie about such a great man. 10/10
I Am Sam
(2001)
OVERALL A TOUCHING FILM WITH FLAWS
21 January 2002
This movie has flaws, but this movie touched me. Maybe its because I'm a father of a six year-old girl, but I was moved by the love between father and daughter, Sam and Lucy. Sean Penn plays Sam, a mentally challenged man that instantly becomes a single parent, when the mother immediately abandons them when they leave the hospital. He some how raises her with help from a neighbor, played by Diane Wiest. On her eighth birthday, child protective services take her away from Sam. It has become apparent that Lucy surpassed her father in intelligence, and she is struggling to cope with classmates and friends making fun of Sam. Can Sam adequately care for Lucy? The whole time I was watching, the answer was, no. This is where the movie fails. It did not convince me that this mentally challenged man that could not even eat at a Kip's Big Boy without freaking out because they did not have French pancakes, could raise this child by himself.
I am sure that Sean Penn's will get some accolades for his performance. However, I felt that I had seen it before, and I had seen it done better. He was adequate in the role, but Leonardo DiCaprio did it better in `What's Eating Gilbert Grape', and I even think that Mickey Rooney did it better in `Bill'. Penn's downfall could have been the character's lack of dept. Maybe if we had seen his childhood, his relationship with his mother, or the relationship with Lucy's mother, it would have created a more believable role. He does do well to show his love for Lucy. The chemistry between Lucy and Sam is touching. You had better take some tissue.
The newcomer, Dakota Fanning, as Lucy, was wonderful. Lucy is cute and loveable. She is the only thing right in Sam's life. She is hope. She is beautiful. She is everything to Sam. When she is taken away, your heart will break.
Michelle Pfeiffer, as Rita the lawyer, was a pleasant surprise. Rita is so vain that she takes Sam's case just to save face in front of her colleagues. She is too busy, even for her own family. All she cares about is winning. She is heartless. However, she blossoms during the movie. Sam opens her eyes. She is like the butterfly that Lucy does a report on in school. She is the true hero of the movie.
The music in the movie was great. If you are a fan of the Beatles, which most everyone is (even if you may not realize it), you will appreciate this movie. The Beatles' songs convey a feeling of safety and comfort. The songs are familiar and soothing. In Sam's chaotic world, the Beatles come through with a calming effect. One of my all time favorite songs, Across the Universe, is used as well.
Overall, I think this movie comes through with heartfelt messages. However, you will have to suspend belief and let yourself go with it. Laura Dern also pops up with an excellent performance. The final scenes were fresh and unexpected. Thank God this movie did not stay in the courtroom!
7/10
I am sure that Sean Penn's will get some accolades for his performance. However, I felt that I had seen it before, and I had seen it done better. He was adequate in the role, but Leonardo DiCaprio did it better in `What's Eating Gilbert Grape', and I even think that Mickey Rooney did it better in `Bill'. Penn's downfall could have been the character's lack of dept. Maybe if we had seen his childhood, his relationship with his mother, or the relationship with Lucy's mother, it would have created a more believable role. He does do well to show his love for Lucy. The chemistry between Lucy and Sam is touching. You had better take some tissue.
The newcomer, Dakota Fanning, as Lucy, was wonderful. Lucy is cute and loveable. She is the only thing right in Sam's life. She is hope. She is beautiful. She is everything to Sam. When she is taken away, your heart will break.
Michelle Pfeiffer, as Rita the lawyer, was a pleasant surprise. Rita is so vain that she takes Sam's case just to save face in front of her colleagues. She is too busy, even for her own family. All she cares about is winning. She is heartless. However, she blossoms during the movie. Sam opens her eyes. She is like the butterfly that Lucy does a report on in school. She is the true hero of the movie.
The music in the movie was great. If you are a fan of the Beatles, which most everyone is (even if you may not realize it), you will appreciate this movie. The Beatles' songs convey a feeling of safety and comfort. The songs are familiar and soothing. In Sam's chaotic world, the Beatles come through with a calming effect. One of my all time favorite songs, Across the Universe, is used as well.
Overall, I think this movie comes through with heartfelt messages. However, you will have to suspend belief and let yourself go with it. Laura Dern also pops up with an excellent performance. The final scenes were fresh and unexpected. Thank God this movie did not stay in the courtroom!
7/10
Any Given Sunday
(1999)
A Fan of Stone, but 'Sunday' misses mark
23 November 2000
I am a huge fan of pro football, and I am a fan of Oliver Stone. However, the two together is a disaster. Stone totally goes overboard with his action scenes on the football field. Stone portrays the football field like the war zone battle fields in his past movies. It just doesn't work because football is exciting and violent enough every Sunday in the NFL and Stone's version looks fake! There was no one to like in this movie. The coach was a drunk that neglected his family, the owner was a power hungry monster that did not care about the players or fans, and the players only cared about the money and women. I love Cameron Diaz, and I thought she gave a great performance, departing from other cream puff roles.
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