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Reviews
The Onion Movie (2008)
Offensive, yes! But to the intellect...
I'm a newbie fan of "THE ONION" as it appears currently on the Internet via YouTube and other outlets. There it prospers as the witty, concise, parody of evening news that SNL News only dreamed of becoming. How the creators of "THE ONION" web video parodies gave way to "THE ONION MOVIE" lowest common denominator, inane fluff, is beyond understanding. "THE ONION MOVIE" feels more like a National Lampoon production, or at worst, an indie launchpad for a witless, money-minded, first-time director. All of the smart, insightful, even moral-driven angst is gone. Where "THE ONION" strove for punishing parody; an eye-opener for those blinded by the formula-driven news conglomerates, "THE ONION MOVIE" is satisfied in keeping toe-to-toe with the plethora of mind-numbing, gratuitous, insulting and sophomoric video antics as seen on YouTube, AFV, Stupid Videos, and the like. "THE ONION" has failed miserably in jumping to the big screen by thinking it had to offer something more or different. More, in this case, means filler and fluff. Different is defined as less than the original; a sad chapter in this promising, comedic forum.
George's Island (1989)
"A forgotten classic by any rights!"
I feel this film was missed by the population at large. It is an absolutely wonderful little film. I suppose it falls under the genre of "Family Film" although it is a bit gritty in places (head chopping ghost pirates, after all!) and filled with funny moments that might be lost on younger children (nothing profane or rude, just minute and hilarious). All of the performances are truly top-notch, notably the Grandfather, Ian Bannen, the Teacher, Sheila McCarthy, and the Social Worker, Maury Chaykin. The latter two form a comedic duo that is absolutely hysterical! Of course you have your thrilling moments with the ghost pirates, but the real heart of this gem is the tender bond between the sensitive boy, George and his salty, sometimes harsh, Grandfather. The children are not just set pieces; they are vital and fully formed characters, full of charm and just enough trouble to motivate the plot. There is that signature Canadian feel to the comedic moments (which are plentiful). It is just twisted enough to make children think a bit harder and adults take notice. It has become a family favorite in our household, reserved to be watched only at Halloween to keep it fresh and always special. Please do your best to find and watch this terrific, forgotten children's' classic.