Family-friendly westerns are hard to find, especially good ones; "Miracle at Sage Creek" is certainly one of the few. "Miracle" could be described as a "Silverado" meets "Romeo and Juliet" with a touch of Ebeneezer Scrooge (appropriate considering the film takes place at Christmastime). The story of an angry family patriarch (played excellently by David Carradine) taking out his own legal vengeance on the half-Indian, half-white family living on "his land" mirrors many of society's current ills including prejudice and greed. The friendship that develops between the two families is heartwarming; their personal pleas to Carradine's cold character and desperate search for a fallen father will tug at the heart strings. The entire cast portray their roles with feeling. Wes Studi is amazingly powerful as the Indian grandfather whose wisdom is the backbone and a hopeful salvation for his family. The children (Darian Weiss, Masam Holden and Wyatt Turner) deserve their own kudos for natural performance and believability while not trying to act cute. Even the dog deserves a nod and an extra bone in his Christmas stocking. A few gun shots (standard for any western) may require hand-holding for the youngest viewers; however, overall this remains a wonderful film for the entire family.
Reviews
9 Reviews
A pleasant paint-by-the-numbers-rendition of the book
16 November 2001
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is a fairly adequate piece of film making with some thrilling special effects; however, it lacks the storytelling ability of the novel. In fact, this film is proof that the depth of a novel disappears when one attempts to copy the story word-for-word, scene-for-scene. Most films adapted from novels utilize techniques geared toward "motion picture story-telling" which is quite different. I did thoroughly enjoy the special witchcraft effects. I especially liked the fast and furious Quiddich game with its heart-stopping scenes that could make the Kentucky Derby look more like a tiny tots merry-go-round.
The acting of the young, newcomer leads is adequate. The adults are wonderful in their roles. Maggie Smith deserves extra kudos for her exceptionally enchanting portrayal of Professor McGonagall. Bottom line: the film should amuse Harry's legion of readers, though be prepared to ask the question, "Why did I enjoy the book so much more?" Non-readers may have trouble at times with the storyline, but will probably feel satisfied that they know a little more about the wonder of Harry Potter.
The acting of the young, newcomer leads is adequate. The adults are wonderful in their roles. Maggie Smith deserves extra kudos for her exceptionally enchanting portrayal of Professor McGonagall. Bottom line: the film should amuse Harry's legion of readers, though be prepared to ask the question, "Why did I enjoy the book so much more?" Non-readers may have trouble at times with the storyline, but will probably feel satisfied that they know a little more about the wonder of Harry Potter.
Jurassic Park III
(2001)
Once again, not just a walk through the park, but still fun
25 July 2001
This is not "Gone With the Wind", "Citizen Kane" nor "Birth of a Nation"; however, what "Jurassic Park III" lacks in story, it more than survives with fun, frightening special effects. By the second sequel, most series of films have lost either their inventive nature or their ability to remain interesting. "J-III" falls victim to the former following a simple overused plot: kid gets lost, separated parents join together to find son, they all encounter dangerous situation and bond in a newfound family in their attempt to survive. Of course, in this film, the dinosaurs provide the catalyst for the danger. These creatures are fun to watch and give us a delightful fright every few minutes. They are certainly worth the price of admission. Sam Neill, William H. Macy and Tea Leoni give adequate performances as the scientist and parental duo; although, all three have been much stronger in previous films. Only Trevor Morgan as the young, lost son excels in an emotional portrayal equal to his role in "The Patriot". Bottom line: if you want a creative and innovative science fiction trilogy, stick with "Back to the Future". However, if you want all the fun and don't care about intellectual storylines to work the brain, "Jurassic Park III" will certainly suffice. Watch it with your pet lizard; he'll like it too.
Dude, Where's My Car?
(2000)
Dude, Where's My $8.50?
21 December 2000
In the past, a number of films have succeeded in entertaining with deliberately stupid humor. "Dude" succeeds in being stupid with only an occasional chuckle. Two brainless stoners have lost their car, their memories of what happened last night and an object that could save or destroy the universe. Everytime they turn around, somebody else remembers them from "last night." Although the premise is intelligent and loaded with possibility, this live-action Beavis and Butthead run it deep into the ground throughout the first half of the film; they continue to rehash the same joke over and over beyond that killing what would have otherwise been an enjoyable concept. This is a film about stoners for stoners. Anyone else should probably wait for the video and then only rent it to pass the time while doing housework; that way, you catch just enough of the humor to keep you entertained while not overdoing it.
The Cure
(1995)
Although fictional, very realistic tale of a childhood friendship complicated by AIDS
2 June 2000
Unbelievably close to real life feelings and emotions captured by Joseph Mazzello as a hemophiliac child affected by AIDS and his new young neighbor, a wanna-be tough redneck played to perfection by Brad Renfro. Although the story may seem slightly farfetched (the two boys attempt to river-raft several hundred miles to find a doctor who claims to have the cure to AIDS), the emotion, actions and interactions of all characters involved are tragically close to real life. Being a "big brother" to a boy in a similar situation who died a few years after this film was released, I strongly recommend this picture to anyone who has ever wondered what really happens in the life of a child with AIDS. Superb direction by Peter Horton creates the perfect mood and setting for each scene and draws the viewer into the various emotions affected by friendship, illness, prejudice and the final parting of two friends who fought hard to overcome adversity.
Caddyshack
(1980)
Hilarious romp through a posh country club
1 June 2000
Lots of hilarious hijinx occur when the snobs of a posh elegant country club meet the low-lifes and horny teens without whose hired help they'd have nobody to boss around. The main focus of the film is a possibly college-bound caddy dealing with the insecurities of his future and how to make it all happen. Now, forget the main focus, sit back and prepare for the hysterical show-stealing Rodney Dangerfield comically reduce the snobby elite (especially Ted Knight as a hateful, overbearing judge) to the butt of his greatest jokes (who has no respect for whom?). Bill Murray is a classic crackup as the poor groundskeeper who meets his match in battle against the ultimate rodent, a pesky gopher (not golfer). This is a must-see for anyone wishing to tickle his/her funny bone!
The Boy Who Could Fly
(1986)
Perfect warm-hearted family faire mixes down-to-Earth drama with flightful fantasy
27 May 2000
The Boy Who Could Fly is one of those rare family films that mixes just a touch of fantasy with a truly down-to-Earth dramatic story.
Following the death of Bedelia's husband, she moves her family into a new neighborhood next door to an autistic young man (Underwood). Deakins gains interest in Underwood's silent world of thought while attempting to keep things stable at home. Unusual things begin to happen around Underwood. While life seemingly falls apart for her family, Deakins and the audience are irresistably drawn into Underwood's world and we begin to question if his apparent dream to fly isn't more than just a fantasy. The acting in this film is superb, especially silent Underwood who conveys more thought and emotion with his eyes, face and body than the actors who speak. Bruce Broughton's melodious score is heartwarming and delivers full enchantment for the "flying?" scenes. (The main theme is so enchanting, the Walt Disney company has used it to open every film at their El Capitan theater in Hollywood, CA). This is a wonderful film for the entire family. Slight warning: for families that have recently lost a parent, it would be a good idea for the other parent to watch with the kiddies. And although they may find themselves dealing with the emotion of their trauma, they should feel much better when the film ends.
Following the death of Bedelia's husband, she moves her family into a new neighborhood next door to an autistic young man (Underwood). Deakins gains interest in Underwood's silent world of thought while attempting to keep things stable at home. Unusual things begin to happen around Underwood. While life seemingly falls apart for her family, Deakins and the audience are irresistably drawn into Underwood's world and we begin to question if his apparent dream to fly isn't more than just a fantasy. The acting in this film is superb, especially silent Underwood who conveys more thought and emotion with his eyes, face and body than the actors who speak. Bruce Broughton's melodious score is heartwarming and delivers full enchantment for the "flying?" scenes. (The main theme is so enchanting, the Walt Disney company has used it to open every film at their El Capitan theater in Hollywood, CA). This is a wonderful film for the entire family. Slight warning: for families that have recently lost a parent, it would be a good idea for the other parent to watch with the kiddies. And although they may find themselves dealing with the emotion of their trauma, they should feel much better when the film ends.
An insult to vegetables worldwide
24 May 2000
The only aspect of this film that saves it from being my least favorite piece of celluloid trash is a single line uttered by an agent attempting to infiltrate the man-eating tomatoes by dressing in a tomato costume: "Can somebody please pass the ketchup?" I highly urge anyone with a sleeping disorder to use this film as a sedative; it works better than an overdose of demarol.
An excellent musical fantasy not unlike Disney classics of the past
3 May 2000
The Disney Company has rediscovered the magic of the live action musical (a magic that seemingly vanished toward the end of the 60s); although, it might have considered the wide screen a better source for the release of "Geppetto."
In simple terms, this is a motion picture-sized musical extravaganza for the small screen that depicts the tale of "Pinocchio" from the eyes of his "father" Geppetto. Starting with his "son's" creation, Geppetto quickly learns that children are not perfect; what he fails to understand is that such imperfections may be derived from the parent. Subsequently, when Pinocchio runs away with the evil gold-loving Stromboli and then to Pleasure Island, Geppetto requires lessons in parenthood and of the heart and inner soul. In hilarious fashion, the Blue Fairy assists Geppetto on his journey to eventually find both understanding and Pinocchio.
Drew Carey is surprisingly strong in a title role that relies more on emotion than one-liners. Brent Spiner's Stromboli is evil personified, although in a comical light that should not leave the kiddies afraid to go to sleep in the dark. Julia Louis-Dreyfus initially appears over-animated as the Blue Fairy. We discover later how this plays into her role when she displays her magic powers to Carey in a series of hilarious dance sequences. Usher is ever-so-sly as the singing Ring Leader in Pleasure Island. Seth Adkins is the penultimate Pinocchio, reminiscent of the 1940s animated version. His extensive makeup leads one to believe that this talented boy is genuinely made of wood.
The rest of the cast play their roles with abundant energy and warm-hearted feeling that transmits beyond the screen and directly into the hearts and minds of the audience. These feelings are intensified by Stephen Schwartz's highly enjoyable musical score and songs, with no less than two showstoppers: in "Toys" three tracks sung by the parents, children and Geppetto run simultaneously yet we clearly understand each one. "Satisfaction Guaranteed" sung by Rene Auberjonois and a chorus of golden-voiced youngsters adds exuberant, vibrant energy to an active and complex choreographed sequence; the townspeople and their "perfect" children create a visual delight with their routine.
Equally incredible is the scenery in the Pleasure Island sequence, a colorful, attractive yet eerie amusement park of sorts where Pinocchio connects with the "bad" children of the world. Particularly funny are the run-ins that Stromboli has with the Pleasure Island children as he races against Geppetto to find and catch Pinocchio before he can suffer the fate of all Pleasure Island kids.
Monstro fans, take heart. The giant whale makes a cameo appearance. Kids especially will laugh at Pinocchio's idea to hopefully save Geppetto and himself from that mighty stomach.
Finally, the live action musical extravaganza has come back to the screen, albeit a smaller screen than for major musicals of the past. Before viewing "Geppetto," one may wish to watch the original Disney animated version of "Pinocchio" to become familiar with the story and characters. Consider that an optional homework assignment, not a necessity as this film can and will stand on its own for future generations of families.
In simple terms, this is a motion picture-sized musical extravaganza for the small screen that depicts the tale of "Pinocchio" from the eyes of his "father" Geppetto. Starting with his "son's" creation, Geppetto quickly learns that children are not perfect; what he fails to understand is that such imperfections may be derived from the parent. Subsequently, when Pinocchio runs away with the evil gold-loving Stromboli and then to Pleasure Island, Geppetto requires lessons in parenthood and of the heart and inner soul. In hilarious fashion, the Blue Fairy assists Geppetto on his journey to eventually find both understanding and Pinocchio.
Drew Carey is surprisingly strong in a title role that relies more on emotion than one-liners. Brent Spiner's Stromboli is evil personified, although in a comical light that should not leave the kiddies afraid to go to sleep in the dark. Julia Louis-Dreyfus initially appears over-animated as the Blue Fairy. We discover later how this plays into her role when she displays her magic powers to Carey in a series of hilarious dance sequences. Usher is ever-so-sly as the singing Ring Leader in Pleasure Island. Seth Adkins is the penultimate Pinocchio, reminiscent of the 1940s animated version. His extensive makeup leads one to believe that this talented boy is genuinely made of wood.
The rest of the cast play their roles with abundant energy and warm-hearted feeling that transmits beyond the screen and directly into the hearts and minds of the audience. These feelings are intensified by Stephen Schwartz's highly enjoyable musical score and songs, with no less than two showstoppers: in "Toys" three tracks sung by the parents, children and Geppetto run simultaneously yet we clearly understand each one. "Satisfaction Guaranteed" sung by Rene Auberjonois and a chorus of golden-voiced youngsters adds exuberant, vibrant energy to an active and complex choreographed sequence; the townspeople and their "perfect" children create a visual delight with their routine.
Equally incredible is the scenery in the Pleasure Island sequence, a colorful, attractive yet eerie amusement park of sorts where Pinocchio connects with the "bad" children of the world. Particularly funny are the run-ins that Stromboli has with the Pleasure Island children as he races against Geppetto to find and catch Pinocchio before he can suffer the fate of all Pleasure Island kids.
Monstro fans, take heart. The giant whale makes a cameo appearance. Kids especially will laugh at Pinocchio's idea to hopefully save Geppetto and himself from that mighty stomach.
Finally, the live action musical extravaganza has come back to the screen, albeit a smaller screen than for major musicals of the past. Before viewing "Geppetto," one may wish to watch the original Disney animated version of "Pinocchio" to become familiar with the story and characters. Consider that an optional homework assignment, not a necessity as this film can and will stand on its own for future generations of families.
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