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Reviews
The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys (2002)
tiger, tiger burning bright
Having just watched this film for the first time, I'm still a bit dazed. It is a beautiful, heart-felt film that captures that unique experience of adolescence. The animation sequences, while spectacular in their own right, work so well with the live-action as to enhance the narrative, heightening my emotional response and making the film that much more amazing. The direction and editing are inspired, but it is the performances that really dominate. I've been a big fan of Jena Malone since 'Donnie Darko', but I was amazed by Emile Hirsch and Kieran Culkin. And while both Jodie Foster and Vincent D'Onofrio are wonderful, it really is the kids' picture. I'm still reeling from the kiss under the stars montage and the amazing cougar sequence. It truly is a remarkable film.
Under Heaven (1998)
breathtaking
I've seen this movie so many times, and it still makes me cry. Spectacular performances, an excellent adaptation, and a good soundtrack. It makes Henry James so much more applicable. It's a little hard to find, but definitely worth the effort.