michaelplonsker Reviews

Duplex (2003)

Disappointing and mundane.

[6/10 · 22 January 2005]

Although this movie has an appealing storyline and cast it doesn't quite gel. The interplay between the two main leads doesn't quite work and at times leaves their audience hanging in mid air expecting something more. The movie does have some really funny moments but they are few and far between. It's predictable in its execution and in direction and the ending becomes obvious very early on. All in all a very poor effort from big name stars who seem to only be participating in the movie because they couldn't find better roles. The direction is ordinary and the sets dark and it just seems to all be a waste of time and energy although audiences will not suffer to much from watching it.

Random Hearts (1999)

Deadpan melodrama.

[6/10 · 21 February 2004]

People have a right to expect a lot more from such leading lights as Harrison Ford and Kristen Scott Thomas. The script, although fairly original was totally implausible and uninspiring and probably a good twenty minutes too long. A poor effort for Harrison.

Billy Elliot (2000)

Feel good movie.

[8/10 · 1 February 2004]

Although essentially a very good little film, the story is not original and follows a typical cliched formula of a boy from the low end of town making it big in the big smoke. Although thoroughly entertaining with some touching amusement, the film suffers from a lack of fleshing out of its main characters. But all in all, very good.

Just Looking (1999)

Quaint teenage angst.

[8/10 · 1 January 2004]

Although there have been countless films on teenage yearnings and lust, occasionally a little gem crops up. Just Looking is one such film, a gentle but frank script with the occasional comic one liners thrown in is a harmless and entertaining film with a feel good ending.

To Serve and Protect (1999)

Crap

[4/10 · 19 December 2003]

What an utter piece of crap. This pilot for a mini-series has not only has the highly unprobable scenario of grandfather, father and daughter as cops all at the same time and in the same department, but also the daughter and father working on the same task force together. The acting is wooden, the script unplausible. The whole thing is just a great waste of time.

Encino Man (1992)

Excellent light hearted fluff.

[7/10 · 16 December 2003]

Excellent light hearted comedy with Brendan Fraser giving an excellent performance and well supported by Pauly Shore. Brendan seems to handle these caveman type roles well, see George of the Jungle, Monkeybones. Good family fun.

Phone Booth (2002)

Improbable, but original.

[9/10 · 27 September 2003]

It's good to see that Hollywood can still come up with some original stories. Although the premise of these movie is improbable, it is pulled off by some excellent acting from the likes of Farrell and Whittaker. It captures your curiosity from the beginning and has you glued to your chair throughout. Good entertainment.

Monster's Ball (2001)

Different.

[9/10 · 6 February 2003]

A truly original story line and some standout performances make this a movie to remember. Explicit and tragic, the film is extremely depressing but entirely riveting. A must see not only for the story and acting, but also to see Halle Berry in the type of role she is not likely to repeat.

K-PAX (2001)

Original and unique.

[8/10 · 23 November 2002]

A heartwarming and captivating movie although at times a little slow and perhaps a touch over long. Kevin Spacey again showcases his phenomenal acting talent and is well backed up by Jeff Bridges. The story was perhaps a little trite with a predictable ending but the film was entertaining and thought provoking.

Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles (2001)

One go too many

[6/10 · 22 November 2002]

This film shows that sometimes a winning formula can be overstretched. The magic and sparkle of "Crocodile Dundee" should have ceased after the second movie of the series. Having said that, the third installment does provide light and fluffy entertainment that is relatively inoffensive and suitable for the entire family.

Pay It Forward (2000)

Original, touching and thought provoking.

[8/10 · 18 November 2001]

The basic idea of this film is what makes it a winner. Fancy the possibility that the world can be changed by one simple idea. It's a film that appeals to the basic needs and worries that we all have. Well acted by an excellent cast that make up for the sometimes cliched script it's a film to make you think and a film that makes you examine yourself.

The Big Town (1987)

Could Have Been More

[8/10 · 13 October 2001]

Considering the big name cast and lavish production I expected a lot more of this film. The acting for the most part is great, although the story they have to work with is mediocre at best. However the film still warrants watching because of the acting and the stars and some and up and coming young talent.

The Sixth Sense (1999)

Truly Original

[9/10 · 6 July 2001]

A truly original story, fantastic screenplay and incredible direction make this one of the best movies of all times. Bruce Willis gives the performance of his career in a role which takes him away from his action roles. The movie has a terrific surprise ending and within a month of its release was one of the most talked about films ever as being spoky and eerie but extremely watchable. Cinema at it's best.

Dangerous Liaisons (1988)

Overrated

[7/10 · 19 June 2001]

Although this film is technically brilliant and features some good performances the only thing that makes it a stand out is the impressive nude scene of Uma Thurman. Her scene was said to have brought gasps from theater audiences