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Reviews
Totally Minnie (1988)
This was my favorite!
I remember taping this show off of the TV in the 80's and watching it religiously! Who can beat Elton John doing a duet of "Dont' go breakin' my heart" with Minnie Mouse?? I have not yet found anyone else who remembers this special, but it is forever burned into my happy childhood memory!
Less Than Zero (1987)
Impossible not to be moved by Downey's performance...
I have been a longtime fan of Robert Downey Jr.'s, and this film cements that reason why. It is a wonderful example of his emotional explosiveness, and depth-- particularly in the scenes dealing with his father. The film may get slack for being coincidental with Downey's real-life drug problems, but we're judging a movie, not someone's personal life... James Spader is at his slimy best-- he seems to have been born to play suave, manipulative characters that may be evil but never without charm! The two characters I was most disappointed with: Andrew McCarthy's "Clay", who seems too straight-laced to have ever been best friends with Downey's character; nor is it believable that he would command the respect that his character receives in the party scenes. And Jami Gertz-- someone feed that poor girl! Good grief! My dog has bigger ankles than that girl! But, all in all, the movie is an interesting, vapid look into an otherwise vapid era. (with a great 80's soundtrack!)
Great Performances: Les Misérables in Concert (1995)
Colm Wilkinson defines the role of Jean Valjean
Although many may pass this video by, based on the fact that it is not as visually appealing, they are missing out. The music stands alone, and is the star of this concert-version of the beloved stage musical. It is dubbed "The Dream Cast", and becomes evident why, the moment the magnificent Colm Wilkinson opens his mouth to draw us in to the emotional story. Backed by a enormous chorus, and the London Symphony orchestra; the cast artfully weaves its way through the drama of the French Revolution, and the underlying tale of pure love. Scenery and elaborate sets are not needed, as the cast flesh out their characters with wonderful facial expressions and the same costumes that are worn in the theater version. If you have not yet seen 'Les Miseables' on stage, you are indeed missing out on a wonderful theatrical experience. This video is the next closest thing to experiencing that magic firsthand. Highly recommended!
Bent (1997)
Clive Owen has found a fan for life...
I happened upon this movie in the "Sundance Film Recommends" section, and didn't even read the box before renting it. The name of the film sounded familiar...as it turns out, it was from a bit of miscellaneous info stashed in my brain: Jude Law IS in this movie. Saying that, however, blink and you'll miss him. His role is exactly 2 lines, and he wears an eyepatch, so for those Jude fans on the prowl for great eye-candy, you may be disappointed.
Granted, you will not be disappointed with this movie as a whole. I was extremely moved by this picture; it has the wonderful, heart-wrenching quality that only a great play can produce, mixed with a very compelling lead actor and fabulous supporting cast.
Clive Owen as Max was a wake-up call; at the end you may be asking yourself, "where can I see more of this actor??". He plays his character with beauty, strength, and emotion under conditions that no lving thing should have to endure.
The rest of the cast is equally wonderful, especially Ian McKellan as Uncle Freddie. He adds that special charm that we expect from his performances, no matter how small the role.
This movie requires an open mind, and the ability to not deny the reality of horrific, true events of the past. Above all, to not deny the importance of love, that which always tests and strengthens the human spirit.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Two words: Cult Favorite
I remember the very first time I saw this movie: I was 9 years old, and my best friend was watching it with me. We were very much into "scary" movies at the time, and unwittingly thought the title of this movie would be the ultimate in frightening features. Well, it was...but more so to my conservative parents who happened to be watching it with us at the time... and who exuded more than one shocked gasp! (not to mentioned embarrassed laughter) Saying that-- movie has gone on to be one of my favorites of all time. You can't beat a young, toothy, (and most cheeky) Tim Curry in garter belts and torn stockings; or a fresh-faced (and at her most demure) Susan Sarandon. This movie is a classic-- glam rock at it's bi-sexual peak; with memorable songs that morph Caberet-esque with the Thing from Outer Space. After you see this movie, you will never again relate "Franknfurter" to a hotdog; and will practice daily to perfect the steps of the "Time Warp". Prepare yourself-- you're in for quite a celluloid ride.
The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
Gorgeous, gregarious eyecandy-- mixed with heartwarming hilarity!
By far one of the most visually exciting movies I have ever seen; 'Priscilla' is open, comfortable, and puts true meaning to "FAAAABULOUS!"!! Although you have to think fast to keep up with the clever Aussie dialogue, zingy one-liners made by Terence Stamp (Ralph/Bernadette)will summon the giggles for hours afterword! Keep an ear out for a great soundtrack that will make you want to run out and buy the record (I did); but nothing tops the amazing creations of the makeup and costume artists. This is THE movie for anyone who loves all things theatrical, fun, and grooving to their own funky beat. Shake your groove thing!