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Reviews
Bombshells and Dollies (2020)
Exceptionally crafted look into the Pin-up culture
Bombshells and Dollies is a very cool documentary that follows the twelve finalists in the Miss Viva Las Vegas 2015 competition. It gives us an understanding of the history, culture, and rockabilly music of pin-up life.
The film is very well done and exceptionally crafted. We really get to know the women as real people and understand what inspires them. I was surprised to grow so fond of many of them.
The filmmaker has structured the film very effectively. I didn't at all expect to become familiar with all twelve finalists, but he made it happen by weaving their introductions throughout the various parts of the film.
The Black String (2018)
Very Impressive Film
The Black String It was not just one of the best independent films I've seen, but a very well done film of any kind.
Congratulations to producer-director-writer Brian Hanson and producer-writer-actor Richard Handley for their very impressive film
Frankie Muniz (Agent Cody Banks, Malcolm in the Middle) gave an excellent performance in the lead role. Chelsea Edmundson and Mary K DeVault were also very good in two of the larger supporting roles.
Mercy (2006)
Very Impressive Achievement
Patrick Roddy has crafted a very impressive film as his directorial debut. The look and feel are awesome. The acting, particularly of the lead, is exceptional. The pacing - slow at first, then building - is effective in giving the viewer an initial feeling of monotony, followed by increasing anxiety. The plot developments were not broadcast, but made sense as they evolved. Some of the acting may come across as somewhat theatrical, but it works in that it fits in the style of earlier movies that Mercy reflects. A couple of the minor characters were notable standouts in their quirkiness - the bartender and the parole officer. Roddy has created a excellent film noir achievement.
Rocky Balboa (2006)
Rocky Still Has the Magic
I was very pleasantly surprised by how good the latest Rocky film is. Yes, it is corny. Yes, it is unbelievable. Regardless, the most important thing is that Rocky still has the magic. It moved me many times and inspired me completely, as Rocky is supposed to do. My only somewhat major criticism is the number of unsatisfied subplots and supporting characters. The whole Adrian aspect was very touching, if a little over done. Stallone does a helluva job. Burt Young is as good as always. We even feel a connection with the opponent, for once. Rocky Balboa does as well in the theaters as he does in the ring (this is not a spoiler).
Take Me Somewhere Nice (2004)
Beautifully crafted and deeply emotional
This short has everything! The story is extremely moving and universal. The acting is extraordinary, particularly by Clint James and Cole Braxton, especially when you consider that no dialog is used to convey the meaning and emotions. The imagery is beautiful and symbolically supports the themes, without distracting. Teo has created a masterpiece that viewers will always remember.
Take Me Somewhere Nice has so much story that it could have easily been made into a feature film. Yet at 15 minutes or so, it is complete and includes everything it needs to deliver its message.
The audience immediately cares about the characters - so much that they are taken on an emotional journey and are left deeply touched.
After seeing this film, you want to make sure everyone you know sees it.