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shaunrylee
Reviews
Hurricane (1997)
What would we be without wishful thinking?
This is my favorite independent film. The simplicity in the storyline is refreshing and the idealistic dreaming of inner-city youth is inspiring. It takes you back to a more simple time when hardships didn't get in the way of the big picture. Brendan Sexton III shines as the ambitious Marcus. Kit Carson's character brings wild imagination and hope to Marcus' life. The acting is very natural and the heart of the story lies within each of these characters. Sure, it would be nice to learn more about each one. It's the ambiguity that has kept at least one person interested from start to finish. For anyone who has ever dared to dream and think outside the confines of the area you grew up in, "Hurricane Streets" will take you on the joyful (but bumpy) journey of youth. Beautiful film by the wonderful Morgan J. Freeman.
Swimfan (2002)
Worth a lap
After reading mixed reviews of this film on this website, I decided to check out "Swimfan" myself. I think each actor did well with their respective roles. Bradford and Appleby were believable lovebirds and the cutest onscreen couple I've seen in a long time. Christensen managed the border between sweet & psychotic just fine. The plot's elements all fit, but trying to fit all those details into such a short film had to be a hard task for the director & screenwriter. I'll admit, I did laugh a few times, but not because something was cheesy. I think Bradford and Appleby did the best portraying their characters' emotions outright and I actually felt sorry for each of them in their given circumstances. The most underrated element surrounding this film is probably Bradford's performance, as I think it was worthy in a film of this genre. I really hope he starts getting more Oscar-worthy scripts though. Appleby was a favorite of mine on "Roswell" and we should look forward to seeing her more on the big screen. If you're looking to be immersed in a world of movie-making make-believe, check out "Swimfan."
City by the Sea (2002)
Real & Gritty
A wonderful film, dark in appearance, but fresh in theaters today. This film likens more to an indie than a blockbuster because of its gritty performances and realistic settings. Each actor contributes a great deal to the development of the story and by the end, you want to know more about each. I've been pleasantly surprised by the number of great films this summer and this one is no exception. If you like films that aren't sugar-coated, you should give this one a try.