MedievalinNYC Reviews

The Unsaid (2001)

Could have been better.....

[22 July 2003]

*May be Spoilers*

This is one of those films you wish you could rewrite and/or reedit. It was good, but.........

The film kept my interest, but it just tried to incorporate too many different angles. The whole thing with the Son was unnecessary. The story never fulfilled the connection. The Mystery behind Caffey's past and his relationship with Garcia's daughter added enough intensity to carry the film.

The Motives regarding Caffey botching up his release from the institution could have been more justified if there was more focus on the relationship between him & the daughter.

The Conversations with Caffey's Father & Garcia's character could have been more suspenseful by incorporating them through out the film.

I also feel that Caffey's character could have mentally toyed with Garcia's character a little more.

The twist at the end leaves you saying, "uh!" It was unexpected and uncommon to see that in films.

Basically there were a lot of script flaws, but there were a lot of good aspects to the story.

It was a slightly over done thriller, similar to those Lifetime films.

The plot should have been more character driven, instead of being so episodic.

Visually, it was less than cinematic. The style was reminiscent of a movie of the week. The performances were great, even though Caffey's character was a little tricky to pull off (due to the storyline), but the actor did a good job.

It was a good film that fell short. It definitely had the potential to be a lot better.

Jackpot (2001)

An unexpectedly good film.

[21 February 2003]

This film is not just that typical on the road Middle America odyssey, with frequent stops in kitschy bars and dusty diners. Jackpot has a well written script with a strong focus on character development and interaction. Gries and Morris work well together as a fly-by-night duo. Gries' goofy but personable character allows his mediocre singing to be quite intriguing. The witty dialogue was enjoyable and consistent throughout the film. Most notable is Garret Morris' performance. The film was a clever attempt to show two zealous characters struggle for an unrealistic, waste of a goal. You can't help but be envious of their carefree attitude and at the same time loathe their divergence from ideal responsibilities. It's realism allows for a vicarious experience and an appreciation of great screenwriting.