cinegnostic Reviews

Hugo (2011)

A film that defines film-making

[10/10 · 27 December 2011]

What is film-making? At its most basic, it is creating something -- a reality -- that exists only within the boundaries of the film In Hugo, Scorsese does that. He creates a reality that visually is beautiful. A story that is both touching and educational. A reality within a film that sets a stage, develops a story, resolves a conflict, and teaches us something about the very origin of film; all within beautiful images and a storyline that is more than plaintive. Instead, it reveals the power of the human spirit when it refuses to be subdued.

I never have been prouder to pay admission to a film than to see this film.

The Bishop's Wife (1947)

A perfect reminder for why I like B&W films

[8/10 · 9 December 2010]

As others have said, this is a good and probably under-rated film. The three principals are all very good, though Niven and Grant are the strongest in my view.

Rather than comment on the story, I want to comment on how the film looks. Part of this film's charm, in my opinion, is how it is unafraid to show dark. Many exterior shots happen in the dark or near dusk, which in black & white is rendered exquisitely. It perfectly evokes the combination of claustrophobia, mystery, and wonder associated with the short days and long nights surrounding Christmas. The shabbiness of the professor's apartment and some of the street scenes is perfect as well. It adds an aged, yet timeless quality that meshes well with the subject matter.

It may seem odd, but this black & white film, partially filmed in the dark, is a visual treat.

The Russia House (1990)

An amazing film

[10/10 · 1 February 2004]

This is a movie that will overwhelm you, if you let it. If you are interested in nonstop action, look somewhere else. If you are looking for a nice, linear story line, look somewhere else. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a complex story set at the sunset of Soviet Russia, with an incomparable musical score and believable characters you can accept as the real thing, rent or buy this movie. Sean Connery does a wonderful job as a worldly and inebrieated man confronting true love, and all it ramifications, for once in his life. Michelle Pfeiffer is a beautiful, but tired, mother of two who doesn't have the time for love without meaning. Behind the scenes, the interplay between American and British intelligence is priceless. Lastly, the score is wonderful. If you can't bring yourself to watch the film, at least buy the CD of the soundtrack. This is top shelf stuff. You will not be disappointed.

Lost in Translation (2003)

Excellent

[10/10 · 24 October 2003]

This film is astounding in its simplicity. The portrayal of the growing relationship between two lost, lonely people, and the perfect resolution at the end will stay with you long after you leave the theater. If you've ever traveled to a strange place (it could be as exotic as Japan or as strange as a different region within your own country) and felt adrift, couldn't sleep, lonely, and needing another person with whom to relate, you will love this movie. I won't go into the plot - many on this venue already have - but let me share the reaction to the movie of the woman sitting next to me, because I think it illustrates this film's charm (I didn't and don't know her - the theater was full and she happened to be the in the seat): early in the film she was roaring with laughter, giggling, and chuckling at cultural collisions and the reaction on the part of the Japanese and Americans in the film. At the end, she was crying and blowing her nose into a tissue. The film isn't sad, but it isn't not sad either. It is bittersweet, because as you contemplate the film after seeing it, you'll realize any other ending would have been at the least a disappointment, and at the most a tragedy. Astounding.

Pumpkin (2002)

Worth a visit

[7/10 · 23 April 2003]

Pumpkin is a classic example of an irreverent, quirky, humorous film. Parts remind me of David Lynch, of the Cohen brothers, of Woody Allen. It's not perfect. Some scenes appear designed to elicit no more than groans. But...but...Pumpkin has its moments. It is at heart a sweet film that never forgets how cynical and superficial the world is. The principals do a wonderful job; Samuel Ball, in particular, is so over the top with his characterization of a collegiate jock/stud that when he occasionally expresses sensitivity or caring deeper than one stereotypically expects, it confuses and confounds. Christina Ricci continues her winning trend of nonconformist characters. Hank Harris is sweet as her mysteriously impaired love interest. All in all, it's a very pleasant film that will leave you chuckling and humming Gentle Waves' "Falling from Grace" well into tomorrow.