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Posted by Shambler [213.40.131.65] on 2003/05/11 15:08:47
I thought a trio of themed threads about other entertainment media might be good. If you're not interested, please just ignore the thread and pick some threads that interest you from here: http://celephais.net/board/view_al... Anyway, discuss films...

:)
#1 posted by Vondur [213.247.187.250] on 2003/05/11 16:20:59
films is a nice thing i'd say
I've Seen Three French Films...
#2 posted by H-Hour [12.252.47.32] on 2003/05/11 17:38:57
and they're all great, so I've come to the conclusion that all French movies are great. Amelie, Happenstance and My Wife is an Actress were the three. The French language just sounds cool, though, so with subtitles it's just fun to listen to.
Aah.
#3 posted by wrath [217.211.83.31] on 2003/05/11 19:24:14
Seven.
Fight Club.
Amelie.
Monster's Ball.
Braveheart.
American Beauty.
Shawshank Redemption.
Donnie Darko.
Apocalypse Now.
Platoon.
Silence of the Lambs.
Meet Joe Black.
Traffic.
The Abyss. (the extended version.)
Insider.
Killing Fields.
Scarface.
American History X.
JFK.
Midnight Express.
Metal Gear Solid 2.
Amelie
#4 posted by nitin [61.9.128.171] on 2003/05/11 21:14:59
IMHO this is a very overrated movie that's overly self conscious and happy. Could just be me though, since so many people love it.
BTW, while we are on french movies, anyone seen brotherhood of the wolf? It doesnt completely work because it's trying to combine too many genres but there's some cool stuff in there.
Saw Donnie Darko the other day, good movie though some of the narrative was a bit forced. Just got Apocalypse Now so that should be good, I really liked Coppola's other non-godfather 70's movie, The Conversation.
Anyway, my list :
Alien
Aliens
American Beauty
Apocalypse Now
Being John Malkovich
Braveheart
Blade runner
Chopper
A Clockwork Orange
The Conversation
Donnie Darko
Dr Strangelove
Election
Fight Club
Godfather 1 & 2
Goodfellas
Heat
The Insider
LA Confidential
Lantana
Lock Stock & 2 Smoking Barrels
LOTR : FOTR
Memento
Mulholland Drive
Pulp Fiction
Raging Bull
Seven
Silence of the Lambs
Taxi Driver
Terminator 2
Toy Story
Unforgiven
Usual Suspects
#5 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/05/11 23:29:25
I shan't make a list - I wouldn't know how to prioritise :/
But a couple of non-sf/horror movies that I might bring to your attention:
Blackrobe - the only movie I've ever seen that shows the north american indians with an almost documentary realism. Fuck 'Dances With Wolves', this is the real deal. A heartbreaking account of what happens when opposing cultures collide irrevocably.
Pathfinder - known as 'Ofelas' in it's native scandinavian tongue, this is a simple 'old-world' folktale depicting the confrontation between a peaceful rural tribe and a band of violent warriors. Like a fantasy RPG scenario but without any 'fantasy' elements. It has cool crossbows tho.
Dust Devil - okay, might be considered a horror movie, but really so much more. From the man who made the first two Neph videos, followed by Hardware, Dust Devil is the culmination of Richard Stanley's 'biblical nomad' character. A mixture of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, A Dry White Season and The Hitcher, with spaghetti western and occult imagery piled on for good measure. A movie about desperation, wandering, faith ( or lack of ) and madness it drifts across the eerie landscape of South Africa's Namib like a dry and desolate wind. The concepts are complex and sub-conciously challenging; the cinematography is to die for. One of the best British flicks of the 1990s.
For what it's worth :/
I Like
#6 posted by Abyss [203.51.220.252] on 2003/05/12 04:06:18
Watching Quake movies
Btw
#7 posted by Vondur [195.128.65.237] on 2003/05/12 04:08:24
IRREVERSIBLE is rather nice
Vondur
#8 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/05/12 04:48:25
is it really as difficult to watch as some people say?
Well
#9 posted by Vondur [195.128.65.237] on 2003/05/12 05:48:00
if you've seen other brutal movies like, trainspotting, dobermann, etc, you'll be forged/ready to see this one. if you haven't, you could be really shocked or disgusted by one certain scene there. but, this movie shows the truth of life w/o any softening, as it is in real life. other words, it shows what happens in our live behind the corner. things we don't usually notice or we get edited information about them.
and answering directly to your question, yes, it's rather difficult to watch it, but it's useful to watch it i think... but if you're too sensitive, don't watch it...
Sensitive
#10 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/05/12 07:23:00
I dont think I am but I did find something like baise-moi hard to sit through, simply because the violence etc felt overly gratituous. As for Irreversible, I've only heard about the rape scene and have heard views both ways so I thought I'd ask.
Yep
#11 posted by Vondur [195.128.65.237] on 2003/05/12 07:32:04
i see, nitin
.
#12 posted by H-Hour [12.252.47.32] on 2003/05/12 14:47:44
I saw Brotherhood of the Wolf and was disappointed. I guess I forgot it was a french movie. Maybe I just expected something different, but it didn't come off well with me.
Brotherhood Of The Wolf
#13 posted by Gom Jabbar [217.80.194.63] on 2003/05/12 16:23:48
Yeah, I've seen that one too. It wasn't that bad, considering it is a french movie. It was a bit too full of ideas and concepts to be really cool, a bit too hectic imo.
Brotherhood Of The Wolf
#14 posted by metlslime [207.111.214.194] on 2003/05/12 17:04:36
i thought it was bad ass. But, before watching it, i watched Blanc, Rogue, and Bleu. So maybe the french-ness of Brotherhood didn't bother me as much.
...
#15 posted by necros [172.128.109.88] on 2003/05/12 18:50:06
Sitcom. It French.
...
#16 posted by necros [172.128.109.88] on 2003/05/12 18:50:29
it's french...
anyone seen X2 yet? ;)
Gom/h-hour
#17 posted by nitin [128.250.6.245] on 2003/05/12 19:25:17
I agree totally but some of the cinematography was amazing as was the cheezy CGI on the bone sword/whip thing :) And plus it had monica belluci. Seriously though, at least it was more ambituous than most american stuff, not that it pulled it all off well but still.
Necros
#18 posted by nitin [128.250.6.245] on 2003/05/12 19:29:49
yeah I saw X2 last saturday and spent the rest of the day wondering how they managed to make it so shit :)
I'm not a huge fan of the first one but still thought it was a decent flick apart from halle berry's dodgy african accent and "You know what happens to toad when they get hit by lightning?" line.
The 2nd one has some decent action scenes that really dont go on long enough and a killer start with nightcrawler. Apart from that, there's a decent scene with magneto and a whole lot of crap in between. Why do they try and make comic book movies so serious and dramatic when it's clearly not going to work? Just bring on the fights/effects since that's what it's all about. The first one's better focus and shorter running time also helped I think.
Adaptation
#19 posted by nitin [128.250.6.245] on 2003/05/12 19:33:23
more zany fun from the being john malkovich team. I'm definitely getting the dvd.
Tryin' To Think Of Movies I've Enjoyed
#20 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2003/05/12 23:42:51
Spirited Away (most recent)
The Matrix
The Addams Family
The Addams Family Values
Naked Killer
Sex and Zen (I and II)
Erotic Ghost Story III (for sheer lunacy - flying dwarf monks on fire, anyone?)
Bad Taste
Meet the Feebles
LOTR
Terminator I and II
Alien
Aliens
Others I can't think of right now
There's Nothing Like The Smell Of Napalm In The Morning
#21 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/05/13 08:08:58
just finished watching apocalypse now, fucking fantastic. Saw the redux version too, anyone else agree that coppola must have been on drugs re-adding those 50 minutes? I mean it's like he's butchering his own movie into a more boring, overlong which ends up distracting rather than enhancing the original.
"Surf or Fight, soldier".
Nitin
#22 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/05/13 10:12:43
you should get hold of the 'making of' documentary, Hearts Of Darkness - one of the most insightful of its kind.
Films Mentioned
#23 posted by starbuck [80.192.126.111] on 2003/05/13 15:32:08
Brotherhood of the wolf was pretty cool, nice coats, i have to say. I had to watch it in french with subtitles though, as the english dubbing on the DVD was pretty damn awful.
Amelie i enjoyed a great deal, it's so quirky, and has a real feel good quality about it, although you have to 'go along with it' to really like it i feel. Jeunet & Caro's first film, Delicatessen is also good.
Seven is really interesting, definately worth checking out, with Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman at their most watchable, and a great performance as ever by Kevin Spacey.
Nitin mentioned loads of good films, including
Donnie Darko is very smooth, surreal, and with a great soundtrack
Mulholland Drive is just great film-making. It'll leave you trying to figuring it out for ages afterwards, after you reach one of the weirdest 'twists' ever near the end. Surreal stuff, and it's even got some lesbian sex! Lynch is great though, you should probably just watch all his films.
oh and Clockwork Orange has made me scared of Beethoven
Doh...
#24 posted by Bal [81.48.101.51] on 2003/05/13 18:06:40
fek, a film thread, now i have to post just to preach about asian cinema...
but first off, on the cinema of my homeland, I slightly agree with nitin for amelie, but its still a very nice film, as for brotherhood of wolves, I really liked it, but it does have many flows, but i love good fights, and the atmosphere... anyways, Jeunet and Gans are 2 of the rare french directors i like... gans made crying freeman too if anyone remembers that, was fun =)
hmm, another few nice french movies i can remember... La Haine, Doberman (uh...fun?), Man Bites Dog (hehehhe..., its actually from belgium i think, whatever), city of lost children of course... hm, no others come to mind.
anyways, as i was saying, lots of cool stuff in asian cinema, i ramble enough about this on #tf... but i will here too.
I love most movies from
Takashi Miike (audition, ichi the killer, doa...)
Hayao Miyazaki (spirited away, totoro, nausica...)
and Wong Kar Wai (in the mood for love, chungking express, fallen angel...)
and plenty of other cool asian movies that dont get much promotion in our western civilizations, a few i saw in the last few months that were cool...
Dolls
Infernal Affairs
Versus
Friend
Chinese Oddyssey 2002
Fulltime Killer
Hero
Avalon
Musa
hmm... I better stop before i get carried away...
oh, and samurai and kung fu movies rock =)
Doh...
#25 posted by Bal [81.48.101.51] on 2003/05/13 18:18:28
fek, a film thread, now i have to post just to preach about asian cinema...
but first off, on the cinema of my homeland, I slightly agree with nitin for amelie, but its still a very nice film, as for brotherhood of wolves, I really liked it, but it does have many flows, but i love good fights, and the atmosphere... anyways, Jeunet and Gans are 2 of the rare french directors i like... gans made crying freeman too if anyone remembers that, was fun =)
hmm, another few nice french movies i can remember... La Haine, Doberman (uh...fun?), Man Bites Dog (hehehhe..., its actually from belgium i think, whatever), city of lost children of course... hm, no others come to mind.
anyways, as i was saying, lots of cool stuff in asian cinema, i ramble enough about this on #tf... but i will here too.
I love most movies from
Takashi Miike (audition, ichi the killer, doa...)
Hayao Miyazaki (spirited away, totoro, nausica...)
and Wong Kar Wai (in the mood for love, chungking express, fallen angel...)
and plenty of other cool asian movies that dont get much promotion in our western civilizations, a few i saw in the last few months that were cool...
Dolls
Infernal Affairs
Versus
Friend
Chinese Oddyssey 2002
Fulltime Killer
Hero
Avalon
Musa
hmm... I better stop before i get carried away...
oh, and samurai and kung fu movies rock =)
Kell
#26 posted by wrath [217.211.83.31] on 2003/05/13 18:21:33
I thought Heart of Darkness was the book Apocalypse Now was based on.
Bleh
#27 posted by Bal [81.48.101.51] on 2003/05/13 18:23:36
first post, double post, gahd i suck
Wrath:
#28 posted by metlslime [207.111.214.194] on 2003/05/13 18:47:24
it is.
Kell/starbuck
#29 posted by nitin [128.250.6.244] on 2003/05/13 19:41:35
kell,
I dont recall seeing that one on the orignal dvd? There's something about the destruction of the kurtz compound with commentary but I havent heard that yet. Is it by chance on the redux dvd? Also, does the heart of darknes commentary explain coppola's reason(s) for the redux version?
starbuck,
recommend any other lynch movies? I would like to see some of his other stuff but dont know which ones. I thought Mulholland Drive was pretty good (although to be honest the last half an hour sucked IMHO, but the sheer atmosphere and weirdness of the first two hours made me like it) and Lost Highway blew goats. Blue Velvet and Eraserhead both look interesting but which one is more mulhollandish and which one more lost highwayish?
Docuwhat
#30 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/05/13 20:55:42
Heart Of Darkness is indeed the novella by Joseph Conrad on which Apocalypse Now is based ( recommended reading ).
Hearts Of Darkness: A Filmaker's Apocalypse is a documentary made some years ago by a group of student filmakers. It consists of interviews with Coppola, his wife Eleanor Coppola and some of the actors interpsersed with footage that Eleanor filmed while the movie was being made. It also has her narrating segements from the diary that she kept during the same period. The diary is available as the book Notes On The Making Of Apocalypse Now.
Extract:
I heard there are some real cadavers in body bags at the Kurtz Compound set. I asked the propman about it; he said, "The script says 'a pile of burning bodies'; it doesn't say a pile of burning dummies."
I got the movie in widescreen plus the documenatry and book in a VHS boxed set years ago. I don't know if they appeared in any other form.
Nitin
#31 posted by starbuck [80.192.126.111] on 2003/05/14 14:42:50
Eraserhead and Blue Velvet are two very different films, so its quite hard to compare them really. They are both much better than Lost Highway though.
Eraserhead is much older, 1976 i think, with Blue Velvet coming 10 years later. Eraserhead is also much more surreal, in fact it's pretty insane. It unfolds in a free-form, almost poem-like way, so if you're looking for a more conventional movie format, you might prefer Blue Velvet. Blue velvet is still top of my list for cinematography as well, it perfectly suits a film this intense. So basically, it's down to you really, what you prefer...also i'd recommend Dune, though it is a little long, and wild at heart.
Gay Pimp
#32 posted by Gilt [24.102.24.203] on 2003/05/14 17:53:14
Anyone else see 8 1/2?
I just have... and O M G!!
I'm still glowing. It's almost like there's this vast repository of great cinema that I've never heard of before ... oooh la la
nitin: I thought Mulholland Drive was pretty good (although to be honest the last half an hour sucked IMHO,
Come on, the end was like, the best part. The begining was the setup; the symbolic palette that paints the masterpiece, which is my end.
Gilt
#33 posted by nitin [61.9.128.171] on 2003/05/14 22:23:28
I disagree. Yes the beginning was the setup, but the ending just didnt work for me. There was a lot of hit and miss stuff there.
Nitin
#34 posted by NotoriousRay [209.163.110.117] on 2003/05/16 19:42:44
weird, i saw x2 and thought it was so much better than the first one (disclaimer: this is coming from comic fanboy with a stack of jim lee x-men stashed in a box). like they didnt have to go through the explanation of the x-men ethos and mutant evolution, etc which i think took alot out of the first movie (every interview i read with brian singer said he agreed). but x2 WAS ridiculous amounts of action, with a very well-adapted story from the comics (weapon-x, lady deathstrike, jean grey dieing, etc). the only thing i didnt really like was the fact that a good portion of the middle of the movie was spent in the blackbird jet with their arch enemie(s) they fought from the previous movie, you know, that almost wiped out the population of new york. also just large amounts of wolverine being the best at what he does :)
Ray
#35 posted by nitin [61.9.128.171] on 2003/05/16 20:55:40
fair enough, but IMHO the first one was alot more focused and to the point. X2 seemed overlong and juggling way too much in one movie to be effective, well in my books anyway. I was hoping that they had concentrated more on 1 or 2 of those plotlines so that each one didnt look so rushed (specifically pyro's conversion, iceman's family problems and more importantly jean's dilemma were pretty awfully executed) and also it would have allowed for longer action scenes. When I saw nightcrawler's white house attack, I was hoping for more of the same but the few decent action bits were few and far between. IMHO, the wolverine vs deathstrike scenes was too quick and averagely executed when it could have been a mjor highlight.
Some Good Movies
#36 posted by Tronyn [24.66.244.98] on 2003/05/16 21:30:41
apocalypse now is awesome. I've seen "the making of" which was quite interesting too "you know why it was so accurate.. because we WERE in the jungle, AND on drugs!"
also read heart of darkness, and some other joseph conrad stuff. all very good. however the redux version is way crappier.
A very good film is Dark City, from 1999. You have to hand it to a movie that comes up with a logical, if screwed up, explanation for someone being chased through halls, then out a door out of the side of a building, by a demon baby who bites his hands while he's hanging from a cliff.
requiem for a dream and pi are both by the same director, both very good. also, the thing of course and in the mouth of madness are both good as well. fallen with denzel washington is a nice creepy demon movie. and with x2, I thought it was quite good, however, they neglected to include the best character for a second time - gambit.
Yeah
#37 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/05/16 21:47:59
where was gambit?
hopefully, gambit and the juggernaut make an appearance sometime soon.
Argh
#38 posted by NotoriousRay [209.163.110.117] on 2003/05/16 22:38:50
when most people ask 'where was <name of character that was at one time an x-man>, its usually that they were never an actual student at the acadamy, as is the case for gambit (in fact, he also never 'taught' like the others did/do, it would also be weird as in the comics at least he had a thing with rogue who is all young in the comics). as for juggernaut, i dont know if he'll ever appear, he was with the brotherhood but mainly is a solo character (and god knows even if the effects for him were done well, itd be hard to give such a one dimensional character some depth). probably more likely to see cyclops' brother and pheonix/whatever jean grey reincarnation they come up with.
besides, if you think there was too much going on already, what do you think will happen if they add x number of characters to each film? this is the issue with producing comic books that seems to venture into their respective films.
btw, i also hated the fact in x2 they never even made a single allusion to the fact that mystique is (supposedly) nightcrawler's mom. would have been so easy to do.
(yes, i AM a fanboy)
Ray
#39 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/05/16 23:33:11
thanks for clearing that up, I never read the comics I just saw some of the cartoons.
I was just mentioning that in terms of me preferring a character like gambit introduced over iceman.
I Don't Really Watch Films...
#40 posted by Shambler [213.40.131.65] on 2003/05/23 08:12:06
Well, hardly ever anyway. The two of note I've seen in the last few years:
Spirited Away - glad to see this got a few mentions =). Wonderful bonkers anime Alice In Wonderland. Stylish, atmospheric, hilarious in parts....and the train journey through the water is the most beautiful and touching scene I've seen...
LOTR: FOTR - the best public ambassador for fantasy there has been. Just a really good fantasy film, pity TTT succumbed to the heinous temptations of Hollywoodism. The whole Moria Mines scene is perhaps the best thing I've seen on screen...
Other than that I've a few oldies that are favourites:
Alien/s/3 (all great in different ways), Delicatessan (very funky and twisted), Falling Down (delightfully cynical and very accurate), Jacob's Ladder (dark and gripping), Remains Of The Day (great study of British repression, nice music), The Matrix (not as cool as it thought it was but still good), Robocop (just cool in lots of ways), Platoon (it just works)...
Alien 3
#41 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/05/23 09:19:41
shambler you are clearly out of your mind :)
I do admit to loving the alien view camerawork near the end.
And if you thought the matrix was pretend cool a bit too much, watch Matric reloaded.
Or dont.
On a side note, I just saw Luc Besson's The Professional, quite a good film. Anyone know if the director's cut (international version) is worth getting or if it's like the T2 director's cut, reasonable but you could see why it was cut, it doesnt add anything.
Oh yeah, and I put in a vote for Batman and Bamtan Returns for best superhero movies ever. Burton's style was perfect for Batman.
#42 posted by scar3crow [216.80.147.88] on 2003/05/23 23:23:03
I must say... I did not enjoy Mulholland Drive at all. I watched it wide awake and got drowsy during it... it opens with long slow pans through dark fog and just seems to be taking up a lot of time for the sake of making the movie longer. I didnt care for the rearranging of the chapters either, to me it didnt seem clever, it seemed like it was hiding a rather flat story that wasnt interesting to begin with. Not even the shallow promise of lesbian scenes enhanced it in the juvenile sense one must ocassionally employ to get into a movie. It just felt rather flat... If Im gonna watch a scene shuffling movie, Im gonna watch one that does it well with a rewarding sense and a fair mix of different reactions, that movie being Memento.
Aside from Memento I really liked Amelie in its quirkyness, its little touches (such as when Nino 'joins the mujahadijn'(sp?)). It has some nice side stories which leave a good sensation and overall a good movie, and being the standard pessimistic lonely depressed kid, the ending didnt leave me as unsettled as most movies do, despite the way it did end.
random list of stuff Ive enjoyed
Nightmare Before Christmas
From Hell
Sleepy Hollow
Ranger Gone Bad 2
Frailty
Lilo and Stitch (Stitch is just the damned coolest animated char ever...)
The Shawshank Redempt
The Doom Generation (or is it A Doomed ? cant rmbr, campy movie, good for watching in the middle of the night after a lot of caffeine and weird conversation with friends)
A.I. yes, i enjoyed it
Equilibrium yeah im one of those people who got into this much more then The Matrix, but it seems deeper as a movie to me, although The Matrix is deeper in its theory, its also far far less probable.
The Ring
LOTR
i admit that i also have enjoyed both Harry Potter films (and all 4 books)
The Shining was quite good
and a bunch of other movies
my memory dances around on me sometimes
A.I.
#43 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/05/23 23:37:59
no, it's evil :) Actually, Jude Law's character was quite cool and Haley Joel was pretty good too but it felt just like Minority Report, mesmerising for about 30 mins and then downhill from there.
The Shining I liked even though it was too arty for its own good. The Ring was enjoyable but WTF was up witht eh little kid. he seems like one of the rejected auditioners from the Sixth sense or somehting.
Blue Velvet, Eraserhead & Other Stuff
#44 posted by nitin [61.9.128.171] on 2003/06/01 02:24:36
saw these finally.
Eraserhead was very David Lynch, albeit raw David Lynch. I dont think it's a great film but you can see Lych's techniques before they were refined. Worth watching.
Blue Velvet must be his most accessible and 'normal' film barring some of the scenes with Frank in it (notably the Baby wants to fuck scene). Not bad but I didnt find it particularly interesting, probably because the characters seemed too inconsistent. Still, worth a watch.
Also saw Platoon recently, classy stuff. The little details made it stand out unlike say Black Hawk Down, which was a glorified war movie.
Usually I Just Skim This Thred...
#45 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/01 05:44:04
I saw Eraserhead recently myself. It makes recent David Lynch movies look down right coherent. I think a better director would be able to make movies equally weird while keeping the movie logical within itself. I didn't really like the cinema verite angle either.
Platoon is over-rated. I thought Black Hawk Down was pretty good, especially the music. I'm not particularly drawn to either glorification or condemnation of war. Apocalypse Now is one of my favorite movies, although Mull Metal Jacket is good too.
Pushplay
#46 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/01 07:00:23
perhaps you would like blue velvet then, it's a fairly standard movie that's got weird touches too.
Actually, if you can get over the glorification in black hawk down, the actual cinematography + camerawork is pretty stunning IMHO, and the tactical touch is a bit different too. Still to see Full Metal Jacket, maybe after exams.
Nitin
#47 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/01 18:38:00
I'll give blue velvet a look then, thanks.
Wut
#48 posted by inertia [24.164.72.166] on 2003/06/02 01:43:23
Oceans 11
Chicago
my two enthralling movies of the moment
In All Seriousness,
#49 posted by Gilt [24.102.24.203] on 2003/06/02 09:39:34
if you're looking for a "weird" kind of movie, filled with symbolic imagery etc, then get the excellent 8 1/2. Federico Fellini, the director, is marvelously talented, and the cinematography is full and beautiful. It's a black and white movie, subbed from Italian, but that should not stop you.
Lynch is a hack compared to Fellini. While I stand by what I said about the end of Mulholland Drive being the best part, to be honest that isn't saying a whole lot.
Name That Movie
#50 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/02 18:02:16
A long time ago an action movie was mentioned on PennyArcade which I think had some sort of relation to Minority Report. I've just decided now that I want to see that movie. Anyone know which one that is?
Well
#51 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/02 19:49:48
I doubt it but maybe it's Blade Runner since thery are both based on Phillip K Dick's short stories. But it's definatley not an action movie.
Nitin
#52 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/02 21:12:27
Not even close. It's something far more obscure than that.
Total Recall?
#53 posted by starbuck [80.192.123.134] on 2003/06/03 13:29:12
Probably Not Actually...
#54 posted by starbuck [80.192.123.134] on 2003/06/03 13:30:27
though it reminds me that it was a very enjoyable movie :)
And That's
#55 posted by Hrimfaxi [80.164.83.193] on 2003/06/03 14:43:25
yet another Philip K. Dick short story.
"We can remember it for you wholesale"
Ummmm
#56 posted by Maric [151.196.118.167] on 2003/06/03 14:59:11
There was a Gary Sinise flick called "Imposter" it is based on a P.K.D. short. I found it to be a bit bland but interesting none the less.
http://us.imdb.com/Title?0160399
There is also "Screamers" wich I did enjoy quite a bit, though the special FX are not all that impressive.
http://us.imdb.com/Title?0114367
Oh And...
#57 posted by Maric [151.196.118.167] on 2003/06/03 15:04:42
... Not P.K.D. related but interesting as well is the movie Equilibrium. It is more or less a mix or 1984, Fahrenheit451 and The Matrix and yet has its own stylings and unique feel. I saw this one inb the morning a week or so ago and then went out to the theater to catch The Matrix:Reloaded that afternoon... I enjoyed Equilibrium a whole lot more.
http://us.imdb.com/Title?0238380
I Know Its PKD
#58 posted by starbuck [80.192.123.134] on 2003/06/03 16:18:50
thats why i mentioned it
Equilibrium!
#59 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/03 17:32:21
That has to be it. I could kiss you. But I won't.
Thanks everyone for the help.
Equilibrium
#60 posted by wrath [195.58.111.103] on 2003/06/10 05:44:17
sucked.
Movies
#61 posted by spentron [66.33.195.194] on 2003/06/10 17:20:06
I saw Blue Velvet and Crocadile Dundee in the theaters the same week. Dundee was actually fun, but possibly caused me to to consider Blue Velvet to be High Art. Good, anyway.
If I had to pick two favorite movies:
The Dark Crystal
Brazil (although there may be more than one version? .. anyway not one person in the theater moved until the end of the credits)
Recent Viewings
#62 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/10 21:34:00
just saw ed wood, the animatrix and The Limey. All pretty good, ed wood's lsightly too long but a very good film regardless, the animatrix is overall very good with 'The flight of the osiris' and 'matriculated' being the two favorites personally.
The limey was surprisingly good, considering the standard plotline. The direction however, is top notch and very stylish. And it's short, which is always gppd.
Hum
#63 posted by [Vigil] [193.229.6.165] on 2003/06/12 06:36:14
Equilibrium sucked.
Yeah, it did, but it was still good.
Vigil
#64 posted by wrath [195.58.111.103] on 2003/06/12 07:40:15
if by good - you mean sucked, then yes, I agree.
Sucked Good
#65 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/06/12 09:21:33
is probably what he means.
More Viewings
#66 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/06/14 09:24:32
heh with time off to study for exams, I thought I'd do something constructive.
anyway, saw Ghost World, Insomnia, North by Northwest, Road to Perdition & the royal tenenbaums.
Ghost world is very good, nothing fresh but quite funny and well made. Steve Buscemi's character is a real hoot.
Hats off to Chris Nolan on his remake of Insomnia, apart from the weaker hollywood ending, I actually prefer this version somewhat. It's a lot more stylish, and although Pacino isnt as good as Skarsgard (though it's his best work in years, probably since Heat), the ensemble does better work IMHO. If only they'd kept the ending, it would have been a classic even if it's a remake.
North by Northwest is entertaining, no doubt about it but I dont think it's a top 100 movie as it is so often listed as. The plot is stupid, some of the dialogue between grant and eva marie saint is particularly cringeworthy and IMHO grnat hams it up a fair bit. Still worth a watch as Hitchcock pulls his strings nicely and makes a pretty good movie out of it.
Royal Tenenbaums is adored by many people but I dont like it, in fact I turned it off after about an hour. It's just not funny and there's not much else to like about it.
Road to Perdition was disappointing, probably because I was expecting way too much. I remember a thread about it on Qmap where it was being priased greatly which built my hopes up along with quite a few positive reviews I'd read. It's downright disappointing though, weak story, hanks was miscast (he doesnt do a bad job by any means but a better suited actor could have made more of it) and the overdosing of sentimentality was hard to take.
But, two things made me watch the entire movie and still like it enought o get the DVD. Firstly, it is hands down the most beautifully crafted visual film I've seen in a while. Every shot is very particular (especially with light and shadow usage), the graphic novel feel is perfectly recreated and the scene in the rain at the end with water dripping off the trenchcoats is fucking awesome. Secondly, jude law was good again but like his turn in AI, the film could have done with more of him.
Next up - deer hunter, chinatown, birthday girl and The Ring.
Hmm...
#67 posted by Gom Jabbar [217.80.194.53] on 2003/06/14 09:33:39
Yah nitin, Road to Perdition was very disappointing. The atmosphere of the movie was quite ok but it was so damn predictable...
Hmm, WATCH MORE ASIAN MOVIES!
Gom
#68 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/14 09:58:14
like what?
I've been meaning to watch spirited away but havent got around to it. Dont know much about asian stuff, I watch quite a few indian movies though. Most of them suck to be honest, they come up with something decent once or twice a year usually. If anyone's remotely interested the movie Company from 2002 is pretty damn good.
Anyway what's good asian stuff?
Oh Yeah
#69 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/14 10:06:15
I have exams monday and tuesday but have a six day break before my next one and I intended to catch some more flicks. All recent releases at teh shop look like garbage, so I was probably going to get oldish stuff I havent seen. Here's some I was going to consider and pick from, any recommendations out of these :
jfk
psycho
vertigo
boogie nights
the game
the man who wasnt there
beetlejucie
big lebowski
midnight run
a simple plan
the thing
Hmm
#70 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.232.42] on 2003/06/14 10:09:14
Of all those, I've only seen The Game and The Thing. I enjoyed both so I recommend them, but all the other movies you listed seem to be quite famous, so you probably couldn't go wrong by just picking one depending on what mood you're in.
#71 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/06/14 10:27:32
Beetlejuice! Beetlejuice! Beetlejuice!
Some of the others are cool too, though take JFK with a pinch of salt - I don't rate Oliver Stone very highly.
Asian Stuff
#72 posted by Gom Jabbar [217.80.194.53] on 2003/06/14 11:08:12
Uh, there's lots of good asian stuff, for a very comprehensive list I suggest you ask Bal ;)...
To get you started I can suggest:
Legend of Ginko I and II
Audition (and other movies by Takeshi Miike)
Brother (and other movies by Takeshi Kitano)
Nitin
#73 posted by H-Hour [216.17.140.251] on 2003/06/14 13:50:18
From your list I would recommend:
Big Lebowski
The Game
I would warn you against:
Boogie Nights
Hmmm
#74 posted by pope [207.6.192.37] on 2003/06/14 17:30:27
Nekojiro-so
City of God (Cicade de deus)
Surviving the Game (with ICE T)
booyeh!
Chines Flim
#75 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2003/06/14 18:58:24
I rather enjoyed Mister Vampire myself. Delightfully silly.
Hmmm Umm Yeah Wha B0?
#76 posted by DaZ [212.56.118.96] on 2003/06/15 17:30:51
Im a very cinematic & visual person, sometimes if a film has enough cool stuff going on visually I can enjoy it even if the story / characters etc are total shite. So without further ado, my favourites are :
The Matrix
Hard Boiled
The Killer
The Replacement Killers
Aliens SE
Abyss SE
Terminator 2
The Thing
Saving Private Ryan
Gladiator
Memento
Fight Club
Star Wars Trilogy
What usually captures my imagination the most is awesome gunplay scenes, which John Woo does so well in his films. The Warehouse and hospital scenes in hard boiled are simply the best gunplay/action scenes in any movie ever imo. His cinematic stylised way of showing it to the audience is also brilliant, with his trademark slow motion sequences and the sheer damage that all the weapons do to the environment it creates a really powerful driving scene thats totally sweet. Most films have gunplay scenes that dont actually have any impact at all, people just shoot guns at each other and thats it, and bullets just seem to ping off stuff and you never really feel the impact of any of them but Woo (and the wochawski's too) loves to turn the sets to rubble, everything seems to explode and sparks fly and stuff gets ripped up, and all the flying debris combined with the slow motion effect looks spectacular. One shot in hard boiled just sticks in my memory, where the guy jumps through the abandoned car just as someone shoots it with this massive shotgun, the camera pans from a headon perpective across the front of the car as the guy dives through it and you see all the debris and sparks coming after him. I dunno why but that one shot is so frikkin sweet :)
Shit dude this must be my longest post ever. Im off to bed to recover :)
#77 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/06/15 17:44:49
The Warehouse and hospital scenes in hard boiled are simply the best gunplay/action scenes in any movie ever imo.
Gotta agree. What I liked most about the gunplay in Hard Boiled is, what I think you may also be describing, the realism with which it is treated. The scenes are cool, but as I said to my mate who I was watching the movie with, in Hollywood action flicks the guns are treated more like fashion accessories. Whereas in HB, they are undoubtedly tools for killing people with. It's a great lack of the 'fetishism' that western media tends to apply to guns.
Uhoh, Not Again!
#78 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.177] on 2003/06/15 19:37:35
Can't...not...post...
Here we go, with some faves I've seen of late:
The Holy Mountain. An incredibly fucked-up, nonetheless fun as hell to watch movie. It's written and directed by Alexandro Jodowrosky, who collaborated with my hero Moebius on Le Incal, and later on a series of short stories called Cat's Eye (not to be confused with that Stephen King compilation flick with Drew Barrymore). To be honest, there's not much of a story to it, but it's great fun to just look at.
Versus. Ryuhei Kitamura's live-action anime. This thing is non-stop in your face double-Magnum flesh-eating fury, and it sucks you in from the very beginning.
Dead Or Alive, Dead Or Alive 2, Audition, Ichi the Killer, Visitor Q, Happiness of the Katakuris. Er, anything by Takashi Miike. Don't think for a second that any of these films have much of anything to do with each other (even DOA and DOA2). Miike is quite simply astounding, and NEVER does what you would expect. GO watch these films now, with no preconceptions, and you'll be suprised with what you find.
From Beyond. More correctly "H.P. Lovecraft's From Beyond", this is the dusty gem that came right after the Re-Animator and before the other HPL films cooked up by Stuart Gordon and Brian Yuzna.
This thing is deliciously fucked, full of freaky latex monsters, funky purple lighting, and wicked performances by Jeffrey Combs, Linnea Quigley and one of my fave zombie-killers, Ken Foree.
Battle Royale. Fukusaku's incredibly dark and action-filled movie about Japanese schoolkids being forced to eradicate each other on a deserted island. Some of the scenes are simply amazing (my fave being how in a few minutes a gaggle of best-friend schoolgirls go from being almost too pleasant to wanting to kill each other outright), and if you're into action or black satire, you'll love this one.
Anyways, that's all I'll post for now -- mebbe more later.
The Hulk
#79 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/20 06:11:53
Long and boring. Don't see it.
Pushplay
#80 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/06/20 10:18:21
nothing good in it all?
Well...
#81 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/20 22:25:11
Hulk does punch a dog in the penis. But it's not worth the price of admission.
Lol
#82 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/21 01:09:39
fair enough pushplay.
I dont know how many of you collect dvd's but I've bought quite a few recently due to shops having sales from overstocking etc and was wondering if anyone had suggestions to add to my current list which is here : http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
I've tried to keep a reasonable balance between fun mainstream stuff and other more intelligent stuff. And yes, it's mainly hollywood stuff.
I almost certainly plan on including the following at some stage but what about anything else :
-exorcist
-adaptation
-big lebowski
-edward scissorhands
-full metal jacket
-midnight run
-the thing
-trainspotting
Nitin
#83 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/21 02:34:33
Maybe...
Die Hard 3
Dark City
This Is Spinaltap
Wallstreet
Boiler Room
That's all I can think of. I have an easier time looking at a list of movies and saying which I like than comming up with title off the top of my head.
Cheers Pushplay
#84 posted by nitin [61.9.128.171] on 2003/06/21 03:15:32
I'll take a look at those, the only one I've seen is dark city which is quite good.
Nitin
#85 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/21 04:14:47
You saw Die Hard 1 but not 3? You really missed out.
/me Pushes Pushplay
#86 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.178] on 2003/06/21 18:38:13
Hay, I LIKED Hulk! It was a cool drama as well as the standard comic-book thrill-ride. And the ILM stuff was a lot better than most have made it out to be, too. I'd like to see a sequel, with Hulk taking on the Thing, or something cool like dat.
/me Smashes Biff
#87 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/21 20:04:11
I think the problem with the movie is that you can't identify with the protagonist. Bruce is so quite and reserved that you don't get a good feel for who he is as a character, and the Hulk barely says Jack-all. When the Hulk is on screen you want to feel his rage and his energy, but it just doesn't come across. And you could walk in after the first 45 minutes of the movie and the movie will still make the same amount of sense. That much of a movie shouldn't be irrelevant.
Well...
#88 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.178] on 2003/06/21 23:53:30
He's SUPPOSED to be like that -- all bottled up and repressed. That's part of the Magic Hulk Formula, after all. Besides, I think Eric Bana did a great job with what he'd been handed. And as for the Hulk, he does had some rage moments, but yah Ang Lee chose to show more of Bruce beneath the green skin, humanize him to a greater degree than had been done before. Altho, he does kick a great deal of mutant poodle and helicopter butt in the movie ;)
No
#89 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/22 00:06:38
You can still delve into the mind of repressed characters. Usually involving metaphors. A couple of stuffed toys don't cut it.
Grah
#90 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.178] on 2003/06/22 13:22:08
So then what, make more room for psychoanalyzing Banner and eliminating scenes of Hulk bashing and smashing -- not to mention Jennifer Connelly screentime? C'MON. Go watch Five Easy Pieces or something...
Meanwhile, Back At The Ranch
#91 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.232.42] on 2003/06/22 13:27:36
Somebody recommend me some dark movies! I've seen Dark City, The Crow, and Sleepy Hollow, and I'm set to watch Donnie Darko and The City of Lost Children pretty soon. Any recommendations for dark movies?
#92 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/06/22 13:31:04
Dust Devil and Picnic At Hanging Rock - both have an emphasis on spooky atmosphere and beautiful cinematography. Though the term 'dark' can't be taken literally in either case; both have a supernatural element that is most prominent under the heat of a blazing sun.
Biff
#93 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/22 17:13:14
I'm saying there wasn't enough Hulk smashing scenes.
Push
#94 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.178] on 2003/06/22 21:22:12
Dag, then go finance a Hulk mini-series then. That way you can have all the psychological introspection and sweeping action scenes together. A movie's only got ninety minutes, unless Peter Jackson's involved ;)
BTW, RPG
#95 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.178] on 2003/06/22 21:24:37
I had mentioned Gothic, Ghost Story and the original version of The Haunting as nice dark films - without them being too whacked-out, anyways. But my connec had begun to fuck up and it didn't work, but hay -- there you go =)
!
#96 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.232.42] on 2003/06/23 01:25:28
I had mentioned Gothic, Ghost Story and the original version of The Haunting as nice dark films - without them being too whacked-out, anyways.
Whacked-out is good. :D
Biff
#97 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/23 05:23:54
A movie's only got ninety minutes
The Hulk was way over 90 minutes. Don't you agree that the first half hour at least needed to be a hella lot shorter?
Rpg
#98 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/06/23 06:39:18
movies with dark atmosphere I take it rather than just plain dark movies?
If so, try these out :
batman and batman returns if you havent seen them
blade II (though it's really a mindless popcorn flick)
blue velvet
ring or ringu
the game
Darkness
#99 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.232.42] on 2003/06/23 12:45:31
movies with dark atmosphere I take it rather than just plain dark movies?
Either one, really.
Thanks for the suggestions.
Nitin
#100 posted by here [62.210.237.116] on 2003/06/23 13:02:10
Donnie Darko !!!
I love this movie with the rabbit !!!
With the tehory of schtroumf :)
And the paper in ass :)))
I Saw Ring
#101 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/23 19:16:58
Is it worth seeing ringu?
Pushplay
#102 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/06/23 20:52:20
different style, essentially same story. I prefer the visuals in the english version but the jap version is more creepy.
RPG,
well all of fincher's stuff then including panic room.
Rpg
#103 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/06/23 20:56:21
mulholland drive.
Nitin/RPG
#104 posted by underworldfan [172.195.95.80] on 2003/06/23 21:10:22
anything by david lynch is "dark", in some sense of the word.
Apart from "the straight story", which isnt dark at all, really. :o
#105 posted by . [172.135.242.179] on 2003/06/24 03:57:57
Lost Highway?
Haven't seen it but been reading old NIN interviews about it..
Lost Highway
#106 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/24 04:35:42
nooo! dont watch it, not good.
uwf, I know but the two that I mentioned are more dark than some of his other stuff.
Movies
#107 posted by here [62.210.236.192] on 2003/06/24 05:16:13
I thin k movie is good inspiration my favourite movies are :
Avalon
Matrix
Matrix reloaded
Lord of the rings trilogy
All the aliens movie
Donnie darko
Being john malkovich
devil's avocate
Blade runner
Full metal jacket
The game
The 13th warrior
Final fantasy
Amerivan history X
fightclub
gladiator
misery
I like violent film, no classic films , action films with human feels , Film who change your life in two hours . A film with you can dream !!!
15 Minutes
#108 posted by . [172.135.199.145] on 2003/06/24 06:44:57
With Robert DeNiro.. it pulls on a range of emotions.. it has action, and.. god, I don't want to give any spoilers away.. but sometimes the film is genius. I missed like the first half hour or hour though..
Yeah !
#109 posted by here [62.210.235.68] on 2003/06/24 07:42:08
Your right for the first half hour .
15 Minutes
#110 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/06/24 08:34:44
I hated it, but I can see why some people like it. Personally I thought it was try hard trash.
Here,
you might like these :
se7en
black hawk down
braveheart
heat
memento
the professional (also known as Leon)
terminator 1 & 2
Niceness
#111 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.232.42] on 2003/06/24 13:24:23
Thanks for the suggestions, all. Some I've seen, and some I haven't, so I'll be looking those up.
Also, I saw Donnie Darko last night. I liked it so much I purchased the DVD today. I can't wait to watch it again.
Did You Just Call Me A Fuckass?
#112 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/06/24 18:41:13
why dont you go suck a fuck?
My Faves:
#113 posted by pjw [24.131.142.6] on 2003/06/24 20:21:45
The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971)
The Big Sleep (1946)
Big Trouble in Little China(1986)
Blade Runner (1982)
Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001)
Casablanca (1942)
The City of Lost Children (1995)
Dark City (1998)
Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972)
The Fellowship of the Ring (extended edition) (2001)
Ghost Story (1982)
The Goonies (1985)
Harvey (1950)
Highlander (1986)
It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963)
Ladyhawke (1985)
The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)
The Maltese Falcon (1941)
The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
The Matrix (1999)
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The Pink Panther Strikes Again (1976)
Real Genius (1985)
The Return of the Pink Panther (1975)
Revenge of the Pink Panther (1978)
The Professional(Leon) (1994)
The Road Warrior (1981)
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)
The Stunt Man (1980)
The Terminator (1984)
The Terminator 2 (1991)
True Romance (1993)
The Usual Suspects (1995)
What's Up Doc? (1972)
Wild at Heart (1990)
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)
The above is most of my DVD collection--except for Wild at Heart, which isn't available on DVD for some crazed reason, and What's Up Doc, which just came out and I haven't gotten around to buying yet.
If anyone here hasn't seen City of Lost Children, I really *really* recommend it; it has some great dark images and sets.
#114 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/06/24 20:52:08
If anyone here hasn't seen City of Lost Children, I really *really* recommend it; it has some great dark images and sets.
Amen.
City Of Lost Children
#115 posted by nitin [61.9.128.171] on 2003/06/24 22:47:03
the sets and visuals are amazing! Very very unique IMHO.
But I cant say the same about the rest of the movie, I didnt like it much.
Nitin
#116 posted by here [62.4.29.221] on 2003/06/26 02:12:05
Yes i have forgoten leon, seven, braveheart (very good movies i have this !)
but i have never seen heat (i have heard f this movie)I don't know memento and black hawk down . But terminator 2 are good but i think the realisator frogot many thing and combat into the future are too quick ( i wait the 3 !!!)
Oooh
#117 posted by H-Hour [216.17.179.193] on 2003/06/26 03:42:00
If you haven't seen Heat or Black Hawk Down, DO IT! Those are two of my absolute favorite movies.
Here
#118 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/06/26 03:55:22
heat : http://us.imdb.com/Title?0113277
good movie but a little too long, but it has the best bank heist scene that I have ever seen.
Memento is excellent, one of my favorites.
http://us.imdb.com/Title?0209144
Nws
#119 posted by pope [207.6.197.179] on 2003/06/26 21:21:58
I.K.U
Heat
#120 posted by DaZ [212.159.60.58] on 2003/06/27 19:49:01
Yeah got that on DVD, the bank heist scene is fucking great! Worth it for that alone :)
Black Hawk Down is good but not brilliant. I prefered Saving Private Ryan's gritty and realistic outlook on war, and its consequences. Black Hawk Down does do this as well to a degree, but goes into no-where near as much detail. For actual battle scenes though not much comes close (Again SPR does rival it here though). I geuss it just depends how you like war to be portrayed on the screen. I found that the first time I watched SPR I was genuinely looking away from the screen when something particaualy grusome was happening (In particular at the end fight where that German slowly pushes the knife into that american soldiers throat) while with BHD It was more of a "Wholey shit thats grusome, but so cool at the same time" kind of affair.
Charlie's Angels
#121 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/06/27 21:59:37
If you weren't wild about the first you won't like this one either.
SPR Vs BHD
#122 posted by H-Hour [216.17.179.37] on 2003/06/27 22:13:17
I think the big difference is character development. SPR was all about it. BHD had very little. I had read the book first, so I had all the character development going into it, as well as a good understanding of what was happening at all times.
I agree it depends on how you like war given to you. Personally, I really enjoyed how much BHD avoided sentimentality. It took you into the battle a little more, which made it more chaotic, confusing and exhausting, so that you only really get a chance to think about the big picture when it was over.
The other factor that affects me, is that BHD is really the only war movie about modern special forces that got things fairly accurate. I was quite tired of these movies where 3 guys hold off 10,000 people, rescue the beautiful woman, and suffer only minor wounds because they were "special forces" so they can apparently dodge bullets.
SPR & BHD
#123 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/06/27 23:15:55
I dont think either are great. Like I said before, IMHO BHD is a glorification of war but it is a visually stunning movie. And I'm with h-hour on the no sentimentality aspect actually working in favour of the film.
As for SPR, vastly overrated film apart from the the first 30 mins and the last 30 mins. the rest is a war road movie with setpieces every 10 mins or so. Again, it's visually stunning but like daz said, it feels more gruesome than cool.
Both good, but nto great IMHO.
Anyone Hear About The Upcoming 9 Disc Alien Set?
#124 posted by nitin [61.9.128.171] on 2003/06/27 23:27:12
and I watched the thing, good stuff, Il iked it a lot. Pity the video quality on the dvd isnt better.
Alien Quadrilogy (DVD): Some exciting disc news today for fans of great sci-fi. DVDBoxOffice.com has details on Fox's Alien Quadrology set which has set a tentative release of November 11th, and what's coming sounds quite cool. You will be able to play both the theatrical version and James Cameron's 'Special Edition' version of "Aliens", the former of which has never been released before on this format (only the SE has been available). "Alien Resurrection" will feature an alternate opening and ending (incl. crashdown on Earth), and biggest news of all is David Fincher's unreleased full 170 min original version of "Alien 3" will be here - almost a full hour longer than the theatrical print. The ninth disc in the set will include "Alien Legacy" Documentary, "Alien Evolution" BBC Documentary, Darkhorse Alien and Alien vs. Predator comics, and the complete collection of Laser Disc features which weren't on the previous DVD box-set. Thanks to 'The Fatfish Returns'.
#125 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/06/28 01:06:52
The long version of Alien3 would be worth watching. Any version of Alien:Resurrection would not. Except the version where the entire cast, production crew, Joss Whedon and the Fox executives are locked in the cargo hold when the ship hits the ground. I'd pay real money to see that.
And the BBC documentary isn't as good as it might have been - should of had less of Weaver and more of...well everyone else frankly. Especially Cobb. :D
Long Version Of Alien3
#126 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/06/28 01:40:46
maybe, but it would have to be some huge alterations to turn it into anytihng decent.
Still..
#127 posted by starbuck [80.192.123.134] on 2003/06/28 03:17:35
it sounds good, i'll probably be buying that set, as I havent got any of the films on DVD.
Thats presuming it costs less than a house
I Like Alien3.
#128 posted by Shambler [213.40.131.65] on 2003/06/28 08:08:49
I like the more understated, bleak, detached feel. I think it kinda works as a contrast to the original hi-tension of Alien and the gung-ho action of Aliens.
But I recognise I'm in a minority (of 1?) here...
Heh
#129 posted by DaZ [212.159.60.58] on 2003/06/28 09:16:22
You will be able to play both the theatrical version and James Cameron's 'Special Edition' version of "Aliens", the former of which has never been released before on this format (only the SE has been available)
omg! :) I just fribbed all over Shamblers bald head!
Hmm
#130 posted by Bal [80.13.115.252] on 2003/06/28 09:29:06
about war movies, I agree with nitin on BHD... I thought it was quite horrible (production is good tho). SPR was nice, fight scenes were cool... I still think Thin Red Line is one of the coolest war movies ever.
aliens 3 is great, dont understand why people dont like it... not enough guns I suppose.
Fek Off
#131 posted by DaZ [212.159.60.58] on 2003/06/28 09:32:48
Alien 3 is ok, it doesn't wow me like Alien and Aliens do, and its far better than ressurection. Its just missing something, a thing which made the first 2 films great, I just dont know what that thing is...
Maybe its flamethrowers, or smartguns, or apc's, or dropships, or power loaders, or jockeys, or lv426, or knives and sharp sticks.
ARGH!
Suspense And Freshness
#132 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/06/28 10:53:16
is what are missing. The first one had atmosphere to spare and great tension and suspense whilst the second one was a hell of an adrenaline ride once it got going.
The third one doesnt have the action of the second one as there's only one alien and nowhere near the tension level or freshness of the first since you already know so much about the alien species.
I Think Alien Resurrection Is Worth Watching...
#133 posted by cyBeAr [217.66.50.105] on 2003/06/28 20:47:36
... for the nice brown metal.
Cybear
#134 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/06/29 05:49:20
just play quake2.
#135 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/06/29 15:44:21
Duh. Quake 2 was green, not brown.
>-[^_^]-< BEEP BEEP I AM A ROBOT!
#136 posted by czg [80.202.31.131] on 2003/06/29 16:26:57
I thought it was more orange
Q2
#137 posted by PuLSaR [80.80.111.240] on 2003/06/29 18:52:49
well I think it was grey
#138 posted by . [172.138.63.164] on 2003/06/30 03:06:16
Mostly grey
No, No, You're All Wrong
#139 posted by [Vigil] [193.229.6.165] on 2003/07/01 05:37:56
It was definitely mostly harmless.
28 Days Later
#140 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/07/01 06:17:18
Saw it a few days ago. S'good.
Good Movies I Watched Recently
#141 posted by Gom Jabbar [217.80.195.5] on 2003/07/01 15:54:41
Just a small list of recommendations, no reviews or opinions...
- Audition
- 28 days later
- Donnie Darko
Full Metal Gokudô
#142 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.178] on 2003/07/06 00:41:42
Just saw this last night -- an early (1997) TV film made by Takashi Miike (the Ichi and Audition duder). Yes, the effects are horrific, and yes, it's in Japanese (with subs), but it's funny as hell, and even dramatic in parts. It even foreshadows Ichi in several ways, but you'd have to see it to know what I'm talking about...
Oo_rt
#143 posted by pope [207.6.197.179] on 2003/07/06 01:32:02
spun was fun
Schlachthof Fünf
#144 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.9] on 2003/07/16 16:25:34
I watched Slaughterhouse Five a few days ago, and I must say I quite liked it. The name implies a cheesy hack-n-slash horror movie, but instead it's an adaption of Kurt Vonnegut's sci fi novel. Well worth checking, I must say.
I Thought ...
#145 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2003/07/16 22:29:33
that the name would imply that it's based on the book of the same name :)
Well ...
#146 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.9] on 2003/07/16 22:58:06
One would normally presume so, but young people these days are so uncultured.
<RPG> Seen Slaughterhouse-Five?
<Bal> no sir
<RPG> Hmm
<RPG> I have that on my list to watch in a few weeks.
<Bal> biff is the gorry movie man =)
To Change ...
#147 posted by here [62.210.224.173] on 2003/07/22 11:28:40
What do you think about matrix reloaded ?
PS : bal never u check your email ???
#148 posted by Kell [82.41.48.30] on 2003/07/22 12:33:52
What do you think about matrix reloaded ?
Entertaining. Intelligent, or at least intellectual. More like live-action anime than a hollywood action movie. Lots of potential made by expansion of the diagesis. The emotional core of the story was filled in the previous movie though, so Reloaded is not as inspiring or memorable or repeat-viewable. Twins are cool.
<q>What Do You Think About Matrix Reloaded ? </q>
#149 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/07/22 18:14:59
I think I'm in love with the first horde-of-Agent Smiths battle.
Matrix Reloaded
#150 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/07/22 21:58:20
Note, I'm not a huge fan of the first movie, but I'll admit that it was cool if nothing else. I guess I just dont like the pretentiousness of it all.
About Reloaded, I dislike it even more simply because of the increased level of pretentiousness (especially the last 10 mins or so). It's deliberately complicated to confuse rather than being "complex" as it is trying to be. Apart from that, the basic plotline is dispersed with kung fu fight scenes every 10 mins or so which feel forced rather than being exciting. The acting is of a lower level than in the first one, except Keanu who probably improves (must have been a real challenge for him) and the dialogue in general is heading towards George Lucas territory.
Also, this movie like LOTR:TTT seems to follow a more traditional hollwood structure unlike both the prequels which were different. IMHO, those approaches made them far more entertaining and memorable than the sequels.
Having said that, the 100 agent vs Neo fight was cool, even though you could spot when they were using CG neo (why would you slow mo a totally CGI fight, it make it more obvious). And I'm getting the DVD simply for the chase sequence, that's hands down the best I've seen.
I'm Not Agree ...
#151 posted by here [62.4.28.128] on 2003/07/23 03:52:48
I think the 100 smith agent vs neo fight is until and too unreal . For the end of the film I wait for Matrix revolution ...
And i think the first Matrix was the Film of the 20th century . Twins are cool and the Merovingian is an important personnage of the film. I love the music !!! In the end of the first matrix they have choose Ratm - wake-up in the end of the second they have chose Ratm (again) - calm like a bomb . Good music :)
PS : R.P.G young people can have more culture than you !
For The Record
#152 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.9] on 2003/07/23 10:52:01
I am 19 years old. It was a joke.
Sorry
#153 posted by here [62.210.224.253] on 2003/07/23 14:43:25
I just read the post quickly ;)
We have the same age ! (1984 best year)
Reloaded.
#154 posted by DaZ [212.159.60.58] on 2003/07/23 20:49:51
I agree and disagree with Nitin at the same time :)
It could never be as revolutionary as the 1st film but still it expands the whole story or depth of the matrix universe very nicely, especially how you learn more about how the matrix really works, with all the programs and hacks etc etc, and the architect bit and the end was cool too (btw, did anyone notice that all the monitors on the walls looked exactly like the monitors that the camera dives into before going into the scene where neo gets pinned on the table in the 1st movie?)
The car chase is by far the best car chase I have ever seen ;) Totally wicked, but unfortunately most of the other fight scenes seem forced as Nitin said. The most obvious of which was when neo had a mini-fight with the protector of the oracle. Pointless. And again neo fights buttloads of agent smiths, why not just fly away? :)
Cant wait to see what happens in revelations. Should be very interresting...
Why Doesnt He Fly Away?
#155 posted by nitin [61.9.128.173] on 2003/07/23 21:16:45
otherwise they couldnt insert the second coolest scene in the movie and wouldnt have anything to fill their trailers with :)
Boo
#156 posted by Bal [81.48.101.170] on 2003/07/23 22:16:35
Here, I sent u an email, but apparently u havent answered... or im not getting ur mails...
uhm, Im easily entertained when kungfu and big explosions are concerned, so I thought reloaded was pretty bad ass, and I thought there were some interesting ideas in the story (but yeah, its made out to be more complicated then it actually is... I think).
TMR
#157 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2003/07/24 02:29:29
While it can be argued that the second Matrix film plays Doom II to The Matrix's Doom, it still manages to set the scenario for the third movie: That humanity (and, if you buy the "humans as batteries" sctick, the AI) are at a critical point where the survival of one race, or the other, or both, is in the balance.
Other, smarter people than me, have argued that the AI couldn't get enough energy to survive from us meaties, and that they need us for something else, like mental abilities that they cannot simulate.
Now, allow my inebriated self to ass-ume the role of The Great Criswell and say:
I predict: that Neo will somehow bring about the fusion of both the human and the AI races into a future of mushy peace and harmony!
I predict: that Neo will somehow bring about the destruction of the AI's control of the Matrix and return control of the destiny of the human race to the human race!
I predict: that one or the other, or both, of these predictions will come true, for mine is the logical or!
/me takes off the Criswell role and sends it to the dry cleaners
Bal
#158 posted by here [62.4.28.17] on 2003/07/24 04:43:16
I send you an e-mail since one day ;) your e-mail is off !!!
The Nost Obvious Prediction...
#159 posted by DaZ [212.159.60.58] on 2003/07/24 20:06:01
**BIG SPOILER**
Is that the real world is in fact another layer of the matrix.
Daz
#160 posted by nitin [61.9.128.174] on 2003/07/24 21:01:13
that's too easy to go with the pretentious nature of the films. They'll probably go with the more nonsensical idea that due to Agent Smith and Neo's interaction in the first film, Neo's developed some of his machine like abilities (including control) in the real world and Smith's developed some of his human like abilities. How they explain that, I can only guess but that'll probably be done in Revolutions. It also makes the dialogue between Smith and Neo before the horde fight make more sense.
Also, I'm sure they'll pull a 'twist' out invovling the real mother of the matrix since the Architect never admitted that the Oracle was in fact the mother of the matrix.
More Likely
#161 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2003/07/25 02:31:41
In the real world, Neo and company will find out that the core systems of the Matrix are being run on an old Windows PC, hence the need to "reset" everything at frequent intervals.
It's A Wonder
#162 posted by necros [172.174.149.131] on 2003/07/26 20:56:59
there've been no BSODs yet...
Pirates Of The Caribbean
#163 posted by nitin [61.9.128.172] on 2003/07/27 08:04:42
nice stuff! johnny depp is in nice form and the CG is nicely done. Verbinski's visual style continues in the same moody style as 'The Ring'. Well worth watching, it's a tad too long though.
Chinatown
#164 posted by nitin [203.45.40.54] on 2003/08/03 01:02:28
saw this last night. It has to be one of the greatest scripts ever written. Very classy stuff.
You Know What
#165 posted by Tronyn [24.78.144.213] on 2003/08/08 02:25:21
Fuck the matrix.
I mean really.
Fuck it. It's crap. it really is.
It has good action scenes, in fact incredible action scenes, and besides that Laurence Fishburne is usually a good actor. But I mean really, what is it? It's a combined rip-off of Terminator and Dark City, with 1.1735% pretentiousness thrown in for good measure and 1.732% shittiness as an overall factor. My biased, arrogant opinion is that if you find the Matrix series thought-provoking, you're probably mentally retarded.
Good action? fine. But revolutionary and thought-provoking? My god, what has the human race come to...
Yeah........
#166 posted by Abyss [61.9.208.173] on 2003/08/08 03:00:37
"Fuck the matrix.
I mean really.
Fuck it. It's crap. it really is."
Tronyn for President !!!!!!
You got my vote.
I seen the first one ( never paid to see it, seen it on TV, still felt ripped off ) When the second one comes on, I'll change channel and watch the test pattern instead. I really don't see what all the fuss is about. But thats the beauty of freedom of choice and individuality, each to his own, and his own to each.
Tronyn
#167 posted by nitin [203.45.40.54] on 2003/08/08 04:26:38
you forgot to mention that it was shot well, well the first one anyway. But I'm with you anyway.
Also, saw Vertigo last night. Pretty good, just not what I was expecting. Fantastic visuals, especially for the time but it's a bit long and windy for what it is.
O_o
#168 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/08/08 06:42:22
You went to an action flick looking for a meaningful philosophy lesson, and you're calling other people retarded?
Pushplay
#169 posted by nitin [203.45.40.54] on 2003/08/08 07:23:17
I think that's the problem, if it was a straighforward action flick, that'd be fine. But it's very pretentious, and IMHO that takes away from it.
I Entirely Agree
#170 posted by Tronyn [24.78.144.213] on 2003/08/08 10:39:14
If you want a good action movie, fine. both matrix films are fairly entertaining. but the pretentiousness, and how stupid people go on and on about how clever and philosophical it is, is really what ruins it. I'm not saying it has no virtues, including being shot well and of course its action scenes, even some interesting ideas, but as an entire package you've got to include pretentiousness in there, and that just stinks. and WTF was that about vampires and ghosts being explained as exiled computer programs? THIS MAKES NO SENSE. that was just another example of them trying to be clever, and market the film as if it is thought provoking.
I didn't go to an action film looking for a philosophy lesson, but that is how the matrix presents itself.
Hummm
#171 posted by spentron [63.159.52.11] on 2003/08/08 13:44:22
The Matrix relates to a few thoughts that are very universal and hadn't been wrapped up in one package before, and it was well done. However, the idea of a sequel delving deeper into the details of their specific embodiment of these messages almost seems to undo the universal message and has yet to tempt me.
I Don't See It
#172 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/08/08 16:30:55
I didn't get a vibe of pretentiousness. Maybe I've been exposed to so many truely pretentious films that it rolls right off my back and I can no longer recognize it in smaller doses. What was pretentious about it?
Pushplay
#173 posted by nitin [203.45.40.54] on 2003/08/08 21:41:16
an example would be the architect's speech in Reloaded. What he revealed was not really all that complex (well maybe in plot terms but not so much otherwise), however the way it was presented was deliberately done so that it sounded confusing and intellectual.
On Aohter Note
#174 posted by nitin [203.45.40.54] on 2003/08/08 21:44:08
I saw JFK last night, and took kell's advice of watching it with a grain of salt. Personally, I liked it, quite a lot. I think it works quite well as a film but no so good as a documentary (especially if you hear how much was inaccurate or fabricated in Stone's commentary). However, the question I guess is whether it would have worked as well as a film if the material was not about real events?
Nitin
#175 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/08/09 06:21:36
What made the delivery seem falsely intellectual?
You're not just talking about the multiple Neos on the monitors, are you? I hope not, I thought that part was really cool.
No
#176 posted by nitin [203.45.40.54] on 2003/08/09 10:07:27
I meant the language (mainly) and structure it was delivered in. The terminology etc makes it sound complex and confusing when it's really not all that articulate an idea.
A lot of people I know that watched it didnt get the ending because they thought it was too complicated, which wither means that they're stupid or the creators got what they intended.
Err
#177 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.9] on 2003/08/09 11:19:01
The terminology etc makes it sound complex and confusing when it's really not all that articulate an idea.
As you said, if you're saying something simple then there's no real need to use complex language; but to me, that was part of the character. It would rather be an anticlimax to find that the architect, the creator of the Matrix, not only looks like Colonel Sanders, but talks like him, too.
You don't meet the smartest person in the world and expect him to use a vocabularly on the same level as a 4th year student, just because that's the average reading level for the population.
And Yes
#178 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.9] on 2003/08/09 11:19:39
I probably contradicted myself a bit in that message. Deal with it.
Hmm
#179 posted by starbuck [80.192.125.7] on 2003/08/09 14:28:40
The architect certainly spoke in a way that was hard to follow, but I don't think he spoke in a particularly intelligent way. A lot of the longer, more uncommon words were just put in there for the sake of it, where much clearer words could have been chosen to convey the message. A more intelligent way of speaking would choose a longer word because it conveyed something more subtle: a more complicated, subtle or elusive meaning. The architect from the Matrix Reloaded was made to speak big clevor words because it makes him, and the movies underlying philosophy and 'plot' seem big and clevor. Welcome to pretentiousness, for lesson two we'll be visiting the Art Department.
E I E I O
#180 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/08/09 16:12:01
Words can't be clevah, only sentances.
If you want to create the impression that he's so intelligent, using longer and less common words would be a good route to go. And that's not pretentious. What they should have done was have Neo say everything back to him in a simpler language and probably using a metaphor (the Star Trek method).
?
#181 posted by starbuck [80.192.125.7] on 2003/08/09 17:05:21
Teh Matraxz
#182 posted by Vodka [195.242.16.148] on 2003/08/09 21:07:01
thats very typical.
you dont like *somthing* that others adore and you feel pissedoff and start to HATE it and even everyone who loves it...
if it makes you feel any better: you are fine if you dont dig matrix, dont worry :)
Err Speedy
#183 posted by nitin [203.45.40.54] on 2003/08/09 21:23:32
talk about taking if out of context. I dont recall anyone (apart from maybe Tronyn) saying that they hate all Matrix-lovers or that they couldnt stand the film. I think it was more a discussion on what aspects of the film they did and didnt like.
RPG,
I was going to reply, but starbuck said most of all I had to say. I'll just add that considering the rest of the film had dialogue that looked like it was stolen from George Lucas's safe, some of the "intellectual" conversations looked really out of place. The first one's a bit better in this respect, but still pretentious IMHO.
Mmm
#184 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.9] on 2003/08/10 14:38:40
/me shrugs
I had no real issues with that part of the movie, so suit yourself.
..
#185 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2003/08/10 17:44:12
It was someone on this board I think that said it best. They said something along the lines of:
"The Matrix wasn't nearly as cool as it thought it was."
I still use that phrase to explain to people what I don't like about The Matrix. That said, I do enjoy the movies quite a bit. Good action and a more interesting plot line then most blockbuster movies make up for all the things I don't like about the movie.
Matrix...
#186 posted by Vermeulen [24.78.144.151] on 2003/08/12 08:32:37
I didn't really read this entire thread, or care to, but here is my view on whatever was said on the matrix.
Basicly it was a very good action movie, that is true. But to say it sucks when you like Dark City instead is just retarded. I only saw Dark City after the matrix, so I don't care if Matrix stole their ideas (I am sure they didn't tho, they actually stole most of it from a japense cartoon, and i don't think they had the time to steal dark citys ideas, it only came out a little before the matrix.)
The reason I think so many people hate it, is because of the many people who love it because they think it is smart. It is not smart at all, but either is Dark City.
The Matrix and dark city also have very nice styles. While dark city is very dark, the matrix is very clean and sci fi (i would also say somewhat industrial).
and about the movie being pretentious... it never is! I suppose a lot of people might think the end of reloaded is pretentious, but it really isn't. The reason it is complex is because he only gives little info on certain things, it is not that he uses big words.
Besides, what did you expect him to sound like? He is the creator of the matrix, did you expect him to say "hey neo waz up? did ya know your the 6th one, and that hot dark haired girlfriend of yours is going die". OF COURSE he was going to sound smart. Of COURSE he was going to use big words (I don't know why they made him look like the KFC guy tho)
anyway, to sum up my post, tronyn is an idiot who stills in his dark room all day having 26s listening to NIN (and i know this as a fact), and the matrix was really not that bad.
Yes, Tronyn
#187 posted by Maj [193.128.238.152] on 2003/08/12 08:49:19
You're wrong because... because... you're just WRONG! Ok?! Cunt.
An Old French Film
#188 posted by pdictter [12.255.12.18] on 2003/08/14 21:02:56
a good movie. its old, weird and abstract. its called Un Chien Andalou, and its from 1928, and its 15 minutes or so.
...yeah
Pixies - Debaser
#189 posted by starbuck [137.222.30.31] on 2003/08/15 10:00:31
Got me a movie
I want you to know
Slicing up eyeballs
I want you to know
Girlie so groovy
I want you to know
Don't know about you
But I am un chien Andalusia
a very good song based on that very movie :)
more info:
Based on French surrealistic film "Un Chien Andalou" (An Andalusian Dog), by Spanish director Luis Bunuel (1928). The film starts with the scene in which an eyeball is being cut open.
Andalusia is the Southern region of Spain including Sierra Nevada & valley of the Guadalquivir.
"I wish Bunuel was still alive. He made this film about nothing in particular. The title itself is a nonsense. With my stupid, pseudo-scholar, naive, enthusiast, avant-garde-ish, amateurish way to watch 'Un Chien Andalou' (twice), I thought: 'Yeah, I will make a song about it,' he sings: "un chien andalou"...It sounds too French, so I will sing "un chien andalusia", it sounds good, no?" - Black Francis, translated from a Spanish interview
Anyone Else Seen NARC
#190 posted by nitin [203.45.40.70] on 2003/08/17 05:09:39
damn good film, just got released here in Australia. It's like a cross between Serpico and French Connection and you really cant go wrong with that.
Nitin
#191 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/08/17 05:40:19
I wouldn't go so far as to compare it to those ground breaking films, but NARC does deliver what it set out to do.
NARC
#192 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2003/08/17 05:41:59
I always see it in Blockbuster and think maybe I'd like to see it. I just might have to go ahead and try it now.
Pushplay
#193 posted by nitin [203.45.40.70] on 2003/08/17 06:59:21
well it cant be as ground breaking as those two because the raw cop thriller was sort of original back then, whereas it has been done to death by now. I was more commenting on how it's different to nomral cop thrillers by comparing to those that seem similar in atmosphere.
Recent Viewings From My Unwatched Dvd Stack
#194 posted by nitin [203.45.40.104] on 2003/08/31 23:29:11
who framed roger rabbit?
Pretty good, quite witty in parts and the toon stuff is actually integrated quite well for its age.
the truman show
This I like, cleverly executed idea that's quite interesting to watch. Dont know what all the fuss about Carrey's performance was though, this is Peter Weir's film.
Total Recall
Liked this too, even though I dont normally like Verheoven movies. Action was good and the movie wasnt as cheesy as his others.
The Third Man
Excellent stuff. Orson Welles is the man, he stole this movie even though he's only in it for about 1/3 of the time.
Tape
Good stuff, well written and acted and it didnt drag on.
A Simple Plan
Excellent movie with great script and decent acting. I was waiting for Bill Paxton's character to just lose it and start yelling "Game Over Man, Game Over!" at some point.
The Shawshank Redemption
Brilliant stuff, easily the best prison movie I've seen, Morgan Freeman is in grat form and Tim Robbins puts in one of those good one-note performances.
Rear Window
This has to be one of my favorite movies now. No faults in it at all IMHO.
Rosemary's Baby
good movie with excellent direction, too bad the lead up the to the ending sucked though, totally out of place with the rest of the movie. The Satan rape scene was bizarre and creepy too.
I Just Saw 28 Lays Later For Free
#195 posted by nitin [203.45.41.57] on 2003/09/04 22:15:44
and I want my money back.
I'll Send You The Money
#196 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2003/09/05 21:04:24
if you'll send me back the money I pay for a stamp.
No
#197 posted by nitin [203.45.41.57] on 2003/09/05 22:17:26
I dont want to spend another cent in relation that movie.
More Ramblings
#198 posted by nitin [203.45.40.182] on 2003/09/25 09:11:00
again, more from my unwatched dvd stack :
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
ok movie, stunning visuals, nice climax.
Groundhog Day
Pretty funny, dont nomrally like Bill Murray but this is tailored perfectly for him.
Nightmare Before Christmas
Tim Burton's creative vision is pure genious. Musical numbers got a bit too much for me but it looks spectacular and the dark humor is done well.
The Quiet American
Good stuff, tight sotry at about 90 mins and pretty good acting and tension.
Punch-Drunk Love
Not as good as I was hoping but the quirky moments are quite welcome and the visuals are great. Adam Sandler does a Truman Show with this one.
Psycho
No Gore but much better than the slasher flicks of the last 20 years or so. They way Hitchcock makes you think that the movie is about some woman with personal problems in the first hald hour is fantastic.
The Pianist
Brody deserved his oscar as did Polanski.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
Jack Nicholson must have hit a pruple patch with this and Chinatown. Excellent stuff though the ending felt a bit too cute.
Once Upon a Time in America
Again, not as good as I'd hoped but there's a lot to like, especially in the first half. Leone probably bit off a bit too much though.
Monster's Ball
Way better than I thought it would be, quite an interesting handling of the subject.
Misery
Pretty good, the sledgehammer scene actually had me feeling James Caan's pain. Too contived and predictable in the end though.
Miller's Crossing
Excellent stuff, Gabriel Byrne does his best at a film noirish charcter and the Coens put together their best film after Fargo.
The Man Who Wasnt There
Average movie with moments of inspiration. Wonderful B & W cinematography.
Jaws
Considering the age, the film holds up really well. I didnt think I'd like it this much given that I was watching it now.
The Hours
Everyone, I mean everyone, in this movie is in superb acting form. Movie itself is quite good, if a bit hard to relate to all the depression.
High Fidelity
Amusing film, probably because it has so many familiar characters.
Good Will Hunting
Wow, much better than I thought. The ending was poor, and the idea a bit too BS, but the rest is quite impressive.
Gangs of New York
average film with good visuals and a good performance by Day Lewis and a bearable performance from DiCaprio.
The Game
Very good till the very end, where it falls complteley flat on its face. Considering the script, Fincher did a damn fine job with it.
Equilibrium
Not sure on this, it spares you the Matrix's philosophical crap yet the Matrix probably has a better script regardless. The action scenes are very good, even though some sequences (ie it has its very own Lobby Sequence near the end) are too Matrixey. Worth watching anyway.
The Latest From Amazon.Com
#199 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/09/25 18:51:47
Finally got my copy of John Carpenter's classic 1988 Neo-Red Scare flick They Live on DVD. For details check http://www.imdb.com/title/tt009625... and my take on it is very much along the lines of the comment on that page -- there SHOULD be more movies like this =)
The only drawback to the DVD tho is the lack of commentary by The Carpenter (I was hoping he and "Rowdy" Roddy Piper would have as much fun doing the commnetary as JC and Kurt Russell did on the The Thing and Big Trouble In Little China -- the clink of glasses and the flicks of lighters, along with some of the most wayward commentary you'll ever hear, simply adds to the movie experience after you've seen it the initial time).
All in all, it's just good to see this movie on DVD, but I'm still hoping a Special Edition is coming soon...
Bad Boys
#200 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/09/26 04:28:49
Bad Boys 2 was just released, and I happened to find the first movie on DVD a few weeks ago. Even though you might not like the movie itself (about two-thirds of it is spent watching Will Smith running with his shirt open in slow motion), there are some nice extras.
The documentary is more about the special effects used in the movie than the movie itself, which is nice. Also, there are some short clips shot with special cameras that show you just what real bullets do to various items, and how those movie explosions look. And then there's an isolated music soundtrack, a very nice touch, and something I'd like to see used more often.
Underworld
#201 posted by DaZ [212.159.60.58] on 2003/09/26 13:30:13
thoughts? Wondering if I should go and see
Underworld
#202 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2003/09/28 06:42:50
Boring vehicle for action scenes that aren't really all that cool.
Whatever-the-hell that girl's name is... (I can't think of it now, but the main star) she is the perfect vampire-killer-chick-in-leather. I did not feel cheated by the bad movie because she was just that hot (and I could barely sit through Blue Crush). She doesn't lap dance the whole erotic element of the dark, sexy killer chick thing. She's pissed off and bitchy and oh so hot for it. She out-acted the movie. Did I mention she was really hot? Because she was.
Kate Beckinsale
#203 posted by nitin [203.45.40.182] on 2003/09/28 09:18:16
movie looks alright in the ad though.
On another note, saw Dark City again, but this time on DVD. Fuck it looks great! And the first 70 minutes is still awesome.
Phone Booth
#204 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.191] on 2003/09/30 09:10:35
I saw Phone Booth recently and quite enjoyed it. The brevity of the film is something rarely seen outside of animation, but it worked well. All in all, it's a bit different from all the rest and was worth the 81 minutes of my time.
Spider
#205 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.191] on 2003/10/08 18:07:00
I recently saw Spider on DVD. It was a visual masterpiece as far as I'm concerned. Acting was good. It's a good movie to figure out if you enjoy that sort of thing, with several subtle symbolic things to check out on subsequent viewings. The movie works surprisingly well considering how little dialogue there is.
My primary complaint is that it moves too slowly. There are too many shots of Mr Cleg slowly walking down a road, writing in his journal, or some other act that didn't really need to be shown on screen for that long.
League Of Extraordinary Gentleman
#206 posted by nitin [128.250.217.185] on 2003/10/08 20:37:47
so-so film which had great potential. Some of the characters they picked were questionable though (ie Tom Sawyer just seemed to be in so that american audiences could identify with something). Action scenes were okay but the jerky usage of the camera was a clear sign of a limited budget. And there's a sequel coming.
Other viewings recently included :
Exorcist - very nice, not that scary but very cool nonetheless. I actually thought the much talked about spider walk was actually pretty cool. Didnt understand how Regan was posessed though, it went from Iraq to the US without much explanation.
edward scissorhands - tim burton needs to have his visual creativity bottled and sold. And he and johnny depp need to make more movies together. This is classy, albeit predictable & cliche storytelling. The avon lady would have to be the best character though.
dr strangelove - good but not as great as I was expecting. The scenes in the plane (barring the survival kit stuff) were too long and boring. The rest was pretty cool though, although the ending may have been better with just the first explosion as the last scene, and dr strangelove's speech moved to just before that.
dog day afternoon - very good and very funny, perhaps 15 mins too long but that's forgiveable given what precedes it. Al Pacino is in awesome form and the script is great.
LXG
#207 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/10/08 22:39:14
The Picture of Dorian Gray is one of my favorite books, and the use of Dorian Gray in the movie made me want to wretch. It was heresy.
Long, boring movies with cool scenes is Kubrick's trademark.
Burton is the man.
LOTR Festival
#208 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/09 20:45:20
Ooh, scored some tickets today to go see all three of the LOTR movies back to back to back on December 16. There'll be intermissions in between, of course -- and it'll rock just to see the whole thing together at the theater, like some uber-quality miniseries ;) They're only showing it in TWO theaters in Tennessee -- anyone else know when and where it's showing elsewhere?
Hellboy Site
#209 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/10 05:03:38
OOH: http://www.sonypictures.com/movies...
LOTR Trilogy Showings In US
#210 posted by Quaketree [64.121.40.6] on 2003/10/11 17:01:47
Just for you biff...
http://www.lordoftherings.net/tril...
Aww...
#211 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/11 20:41:19
/me hugs Quaketree
Kill Bill
#212 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.191] on 2003/10/13 23:46:56
Enjoyable. Not a serious a movie, but not corny either (I felt the trailer was trying to be too funny/cute, and that's not what the movie is). Lots of action, lots of gore, and lots of outrageous, laughable gore. I thought the movie got lost on side-stories too frequently and for too long, though. Still, I liked it.
Latest DVDs
#213 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/19 04:09:23
Got Wrong Turn and The Gate -- with Wrong Turn being a solid survival horror flick with some great shocks, although its depiction of the South and the rural inhabitants is a bit off-putting in its exaggeration. I mean, the Redneck Trucker and the One-Toothed Gas Station Attendant were a bit much alongside the inbred mutants who are the prime offenders in the movie. All that aside, Wrong TUrn is a really good one-time view, but not necessarily a keeper for the collection.
The Gate is a classic in my book: It came out in 1987, and is a stand-out since it doesn't rely on either gore or titillation as did most movies of that period. It even has a PG-13 rating =) Yeah, it's sorta sappy at the core, but a really neat movie about the Old Gods invading from below via a hole in this kid's backyard =)
Biff
#214 posted by nitin [203.45.41.208] on 2003/10/19 06:15:26
you seem to be into horror stuff, can you recommend anything good? Only stuff I've seen from the genre that I'ave actually liked are Exorcist, The Thing & Rosemary's Baby.
My Horror Picks, A Thru D (part One -- 5000 Character Limit)
#215 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/19 12:01:50
I love the horror genre, and am really happy that it seems to having a bit of a resurrection lately. But the genre itself is not nearly as cut-and-dry as most people think, and I detail some of my own specifications in the partial list below:
Audition (Oodishon) - 2000: Takashi Miike's utterly disturbing take on a May-December romance ;) It takes some time to get going (this is done deliberately, as far as I can tell), but when it does, it pays off. Mind you, this isn't a film for the weak-stomached, and it is Japanese with subtitles.
The Brood - 1979: David Cronenberg's take on internalizing our anger. Cronenberg's early films like this tend wind along a bit unevenly at times, but the performances are fairly solid, and some nice shocks are in store. Again, this is a disturbing and graphic film -- but Cronenberg, while excessive, is always effective.
C.H.U.D. - 1984: This is typical of one of my favorite sub-genres in horror, Cheese Horror. Cheese Horror is usually caused by a restricted budget, forcing the filmmakers to take what had been a serious concept and weaken it slightly, due to the lack of realism in production or of focus in the script. But when it's done well, Cheese Horror makes for a great watch -- and C.H.U.D. is one. If you can find the DVD, the commentary track by the director and lead actors is hilarious.
Cannibal Holocaust - 1980: This movie has to be seen to be believed. This is the template on which lesser films like The Blair Witch Project are based, providing a faux-documentary feel to its subject, but its it believable, and powerful. This is not as much a horror film as an exploitation film, and again it is graphic and disturbing. It won't leave your mind for some time after you see it.
The Car - 1977: The Cadillac of Cheese. The Mysterious Black Car From Hell torments a small town, and James Brolin vows to total it. What's odd here is that this is a really bad concept done really well, but since the concept is so bad, the overall effect is like watching one of the Airplane! movies. A hoot.
The Cook, The Thief, His Wife & Her Lover - 1989: From the wonderfully whacked Peter Greenaway (I need to find more of his stuff, btw) comes this elegant and ultimately quite disturbing movie. The film is like a play or opera of sorts, very classical and well-paced -- and the ending is worth the wait.
Dawn of the Dead - 1978: One of my all-time faves, this rates as higher quality Cheese. The higher rating is for the thought-provoking premise, and the undercurrents of black satire that run throughout the film. Its predecessor Night of the Living Dead and sequel Day of the Dead seem to lack both of those qualities, IMO and aren't nearly as much fun to watch. This is getting ready to be re-released in a new version starring Ving Rhames, and I heartily suggest the original be seen first, although I have high hopes for the new version.
(see below for more)
My Horror Picks, A Thru D (part Two)
#216 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/19 12:02:54
Dead & Buried - 1981: Written by Dan O'Bannon, the guy who helped script Alien and Total Recall, and who directed the original Return of the Living Dead (see below), this movie plays like a made for TV flick, but has a good bit of gore here and there, and a neat premise. Not way up on the list, but a good rental nonetheless.
The Dead Zone - 1983: David Cronenberg again, but considerably more solidified than his past films. One of the best Stephen King adaptations (my other faves are Tobe Hooper's made for TV miniseries Salem's Lot and Mick Garris' The Stand,), and starring The Man Himself, Christopher Walken. A really good thriller, simply put.
Deep Rising - 1998: Stephen Sommers' first hit before The Mummy. More a sci-fi/horror/action mélange than anything, it's a great ride, funny as hell in parts (due mainly to Kevin J. O'Connor as Joey, who should be in more movies, dammit), and has some awesome shocks and great tension. Big, noisy fun.
Deliverance - 1972: The film Wrong Turn wanted to be like, but couldn't. Directed by John Boorman, one of my fave filmmakers (I even forgive him the retched Exorcist II), this is a very disturbing and effective movie, with solid performances by the likes of Jon Voight, Ned Beatty, Burt Reynolds and Ronny Cox. A must-see.
Demon Seed - 1977: Sci-fi/horror, an adaptation of a novel by Dean Koontz, with the beautiful Julie Christie giving a nice performance in this tale of technology gone amok. Sure, it's somewhat dated, but effective and overall a creepy flick.
The Devil's Rain - 1975: This movie is total Cheese, but oddly enough the ending freaked me out a little. William Shatner takes on Ol' Scratch, vividly portrayed by Enrest Borgnine! No, really!
Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (TV) - 1973: I only include this for two reasons -- I've GOT to find it on VHS or DVD (doubtful if it'll ever come out), and it's being remade as well. In it a young woman nad her husband inherit her father's old Victorian house, which has a few suprises in store for her. Simply put, I watched this on late-night TV once was a kid, and couldn't sleep afterwards for a week. Creepy as fuck stuff.
That's all for now, I'm cramping here. But this is fun, and I'll add more later if anyone likes.
The South
#217 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/10/19 13:37:34
If you're going to show the south at all then you might as well depict everyone in it as Fualknerian chuds.
I'm already afraid to drive through the bible belt.
Pushplay
#218 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/19 13:49:27
Well, you're an idiot. That's like depicting Noo Yawkers as guys named Vinny, Midwesterners as people obcessed with dairy products and the enitre state of California full of Jeff Spicolis. And it's Faulkneresque, you git.
Faulknerian
#219 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/10/19 15:39:47
Sounds about a million times better.
Cheers Biff
#220 posted by nitin [203.45.41.208] on 2003/10/19 21:12:22
will see if I can track down some of those. I've got Deliverance, didnt know it really classified as horror.
Nitin
#221 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/19 22:12:13
All I know is that if I were Ned Beatty in that movie, I would have to disagree with you ;)
Nitin
#222 posted by biff_debris [66.191.253.107] on 2003/10/19 22:23:22
All I know is that if I were Ned Beatty in that movie, I would have to disagree with you ;)
Horror
#223 posted by [Kona] [203.109.254.50] on 2003/10/27 00:47:28
appreciate the recommendations biff, i'll add them to the list and eventually watch them. i'm a big horror fan too, but don't watch much because there's so much garbage, unless it's had a good review or been recommended.
i saw 28 days later today. was alright although i would have liked more focus on surviving the zombie's rather than the second half of the movie with the camp of soldiers wanting to rape and murder - which was pretty unrealistic. the original ending would have been better too, and gave a good opportunity for a sequel.
looking forward to texas chainsaw2, jeepers creepers2 and freddy vs jason. anyone seem them yet?
look forward to more of your horror list later biffy :P
(fingers In Ears) LA-LA-LA-LA-LA-LA-LA-LA.......
#224 posted by Quaketree [208.59.199.233] on 2003/10/27 01:09:12
[Kona] almost gave away the plot for 28 days.
Kona!
#225 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2003/10/27 15:53:14
Come back! Make maps!
28 Days Later I liked much.
Hay [Kona]!
#226 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.246] on 2003/10/27 19:07:36
And thanks =) I'll get some more up later in the week, but one of the things I always stress about horror flicks is that since there is so little stuff that ain't garbage, an appreciation of the garbage is a given. But maybe it's just me -- I dig cranking up C.H.U.D. or Motel Hell and they're always entertaining.
Hehe
#227 posted by Tronyn [24.78.146.107] on 2003/10/28 00:07:30
I've seen Freddy vs Jason 3 times, it's good if you like that kind of thing. Texas Chainsaw remake was good, actually one of the sickest movies I've seen, erm if you like that sort of thing. Never seen 28 days later.
My Horror Picks, E Thru H (Part One)
#228 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.246] on 2003/10/29 05:43:42
Well you asked for it -- here it go. We'll be getting into some of the major franchises of the genre, but I'll only mention the original films, with some asides to the sequels for the most part. As is the case with most series, if you've seen one, you can pretty much guess what the others will be like.
The Entity - 1981: Barbara Hershey is foxy as always, and extremely effective in this film about a woman tormented by an invisible being. It tries to go the route of The Exorcist and Polergeist, and offer some pseudo-scientific and psychological proof for and against the existence of said Entity, but isn't quite convincing (not that Poltergeist really was, either). Nonetheless, the film is really effective and doesn't fall over into exploitation when involving the attacks, which are basically rape scenes. A really good rental.
The Evil Dead - 1981: You can look at the Evil Dead movies as either comedies or horror films, but the first film was much more rooted in the latter. It nonetheless is extremely funny at times, due mainly to Sam Raimi's twisted perspective on the subject. Simply said, if you're a fan of horror or even curious, this in one of the movies you should see -- if anything to see the debut of The Chin That Roared, Bruce Campbell.
The Exorcist - 1973: My all-time fave. Nothing has yet to match the considerable impact this film made on me as a kid (no, not back in '73, later in the '80s when it was on HBO), and continues to through adulthood. It is an effective, thought-provoking, sometimes disturbing and always fascinating film, with marvellous performances, impressive visual effects (for the time), and a creepy-as-fuck soundtrack. It was in my opinion the first mainstream film to take the genre of horror seriously, and have the balls to carry all the way to the goal: endless streams of obscenities, a cruicifix masturbation, not to mention that scene at the hospital where poor Regan is stuck in the neck, and the blood goes flying. Avoid the first sequel if at all possible, but see the third movie, which was directed by William Peter Blatty, who wrote the original novel, as well as the one on which Exorcist III was based -- Legion.
The Fog - 1980: "Something like an albatross around the neck. No. More like a millstone. A plumbing stone, by God. Damn them all." Not necessarily a effective film, but has some creepy scenes, like when you hear the afore-mentioned statement (my fave scene, btw). A great ensemble cast, featuring the always-vulnerable Jamie Lee Curtis, the always-foxy Adrienne Barbeau, the always-consternated Hal "Blake, I Have Your Gold" Holbrook, and everybody's favorite two-fisted, hard-drinking, hard-loving (insert occupation here), Tom Aktins. It's obviously one of my faves -- now you can have a stomach-powder and a coke ;)
Frailty - 2001: This is a unique film in that it's not necessarily frightening, or even disturbing -- but it is unsettling. It is effective not as much because of what you see and hear on the screen, but what you think about it afterwards. Bill Paxton gives a great performance, as well as supplying a solid vision behind the camera as director, with Matthew McConaughey and Powers Booth, as well as the two young actors Jeremy Sumpter and Luke Askew offering excellent support. It won't leave your mind for a while after viewing.
Biff
#229 posted by nitin [203.45.41.208] on 2003/10/29 05:55:46
you forgot to mention the spiderwalk sequence, I thought it was pretty cool.
.
#230 posted by [Jimbo] [164.106.40.237] on 2003/10/29 10:00:28
Wanna see a Sick movie?
Rob Zombie's House of 1000 Corpses
Haven't seen texas chainsaw so I can't compare, but this one is pretty sick.
Dagon //// 4 severed tentacles (we need a severed tentacle icon :)
Didn't know it was on so i missed the 1st half,
but the second half was nice and ummm
"atlantis gothic"??
Beyond Reanimator <skull><skull><skul... (3 skulls)
not bad if you like the inject them with glowing syringe and bring 'em back as zombies
type things.
Necronomicon <skull> <skull> / (2 skulls and one severed tentacle)
3 stories by Lovecraft
Good stuff.
Bone Snatcher <skull> <skull> (2 skulls)
Not scary enough :)
Also, carrying nitroglycerine without a stabilizing agent in the desert is suicidal at best (it explodes spontaneously if it reaches 90 degrees F), almost no one uses nitro as an explosive anymore, tnt, C4, Semtex, Ampho or other more stable explosives would be used (probably a binary explosive).
Borked Icons
#231 posted by [Jimbo] [164.106.40.237] on 2003/10/29 10:00:59
doh no icons? or did I just bork the code?
No Icons
#232 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2003/10/29 14:09:57
Biff
#233 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/10/29 15:17:59
Right, so where's Alien?
Cannibal Holocaust was quite... interesting. Though I have to admit that the very last line made me laugh, some of the more graphical scenes were unsettling. Then again, it was too slow even for my tastes, and was pretty much made just to try out some neat special effects involving chopping people to bits.
Nitin, Vigil
#234 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.246] on 2003/10/29 18:54:22
Hehe, I actually don't mention the spider walk because I always go by the 25th Anniversary version of The Exorcist, which didn't have the spider walk. That is a really cool scene though, and the best additive to the otherwise wretched Version You've Never Seen, which I wish I never had, seeing as how William Friedkin did all of the cheap tricks with the film he swore he would never do some five years before.
And to be honest (and I'm sure many would disagree), I've always classified Alien as a sci-fi flick, and have never thought of it as a horror film -- even though it very obviously bears all the right characteristics. I'm a silly fuck, you know ;)
My Horror Picks, E Thru H (Part Two)
#235 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.246] on 2003/10/29 18:57:24
Friday the 13th - 1980: I know, I know, this is cliché from the word go, but nonetheless fairly strong cheese, here. Mind you, I lost interest after the first two sequels, and haven't seen all of the others at one time, which has left me with an odd patchwork of recollections about the rest of the series -- but the first film nonetheless is a hoot to watch.
The Gate - 1987: Probably the only PG-13 horror flick I'll ever recommend. As one could guess by the rating, it's not exactly filled with violence and titillation, and the leads are all kids -- but it has some really neat stop-motion effects, and moments of genuine creepiness. A nice rental.
Halloween - 1978: Basically, the film that started the whole "survival horror" sub-genre. This film seems tame by today's standards, since it mainly relies on tension and suspense more than shocks and violence. It nonetheless is one of my faves, if only for the always-excessive Donald Pleasance as the that wacky psychotherapist, Dr. Sam "He's Evil On Two Legs" Loomis. After the second film and third (a cheeesy delight, that one), I basically lost interest, as by then the original filmmakers were no longer involved, but the first film is great for its atmosphere.
Hellraiser - 1987: A decent flick from Clive Barker, unfortunately dated now in terms of visuals -- but a imaginative film anyway. To be honest, I like the sequel (Hellraiser II: Hellbound) better than this one, but again, lost interest after it. Really depends on if your into Barker's sfuff. I for one dig the otherworld of The Lament COnfiguration, and the Cenobites and lost souls who live there. Creepy stuff.
THe Hitcher - 1986: This one is a trip. C. Thomas Howell gets on the wrong side of Rutger Hauer, and lives to sincerely regret it. But he doesn't really get the worst of it - that's saved for the girl he meets along the way... I will say no more. Just see this one if you can.
THe Howling - 1981: High-grade cheesy fun, with some neat Rob Bottin werewolf effects thrown in. Like most of the Roger Corman-produced flicks of the '70s-'80s, this comes off like a made-for-TV movie with something extra. Director Joe Dante plays along well, but not without his usual dose of the tongue-in-cheek, fueled onward by John Sayles' quirky screenplay (Sayles makes an appearance in the film as a coroner, btw). And Dee Wallace Stone makes a cute werewolf, don't she?
That's it for now, again I'll post more if there's interest.
Biff
#236 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/10/30 00:06:12
I only saw the 'version you've never seen' edition, earlier this year. What's better/different in the other version?
Nitin
#237 posted by biff_debris [66.191.252.246] on 2003/10/30 05:17:41
The 25th Anniversary edition was simply a digitally remastered version of the original theatrical release. What's different is that it is missing the spider walk scene, the extra scenes at the hospital (which mainly consist of Regan getting pissy with the nursing staff and some other tests that they run on her), a brief dialog between the two priests midway through the exorcism when they're sitting at the stairs, and a slightly elongated ending, where Lt. Kinderman and Father Dyer meet up at the end, which basically sets the stage for the third film, in which they're depicted as old friends. Also, there are those annoying digital paste-ins like fucking stickers one would get out of a box of cereal throughout the film, usually of ol' Pazuzu and one of Karras' mother that's seen on the curtains of Regan's window right before he jumps through it.
If you listen to the commentary on the 25th Anniversay edition, you can basically follow a list of stuff that William Friedkin says he wouldn't do to compromise his original vision for the film, and that's basically what he turned around and did with The Version You've Never Seen. Albeit it doesn't contain the spider walk, but I simply think the original is way better, since things aren't as spelled-out to the viewer on what's going on at the core of the film (the good vs. evil stuff), and those fucking digital pastiches aren't in there.
Heh
#238 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/10/30 07:33:35
I thought those things were meant to look like cheesy symbols, didnt know they were additions. Thanks for that though, will check the original out sometime but I'm viewing the version I have again since I still havent worked out a few things (eg how regan became possessed). At least it wasnt a total disaster ala Apocalypse Now Redux.
Cut Directors
#239 posted by Kell [82.41.49.31] on 2003/10/30 10:03:29
you can basically follow a list of stuff that William Friedkin says he wouldn't do to compromise his original vision for the film, and that's basically what he turned around and did
That sounds suspicously like Alien: Directors Cut. When the bonus footage, including the infamous 'cocoon sequence', was released originally as part of the boxhugger set, it wasn't reinserted into the movie because Scott said the original release version was the 'director's cut'. But here we are with an extra 6 minutes of footage to justify the re-release. Oh, the thundering of the bandwagon :P
How True Kell
#240 posted by underworldfan [128.195.84.154] on 2003/10/30 12:41:21
how true.
Yeh... My God!
#241 posted by Tronyn [24.78.146.107] on 2003/10/30 14:01:03
Apocalypse Now redux was *horrible*.
I loved the original movie, it was so slow that you could only stand it because it was so good. It had mood and atmosphere. With the nearly hour of extra footage, the movie is just ruined. And the thing I'm most pissed off about is, I can't see Apocalpyse Now on DVD without the damned extra footage! Yes, I could technically skip the scenes, but that would just ruin the mood, and I'm serious that's the movie's primary strength.
Kell
#242 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/10/30 15:26:45
However, no less than nine discs of Alien-goodness will surely make up for the extra 6 mniutes.
Well
#243 posted by Kell [82.41.49.31] on 2003/10/30 17:36:12
it depends what they've managed to find to pad out 9 discs; a proper interview with Ron 'N66 cyclone thrust tunnel' Cobb would be top of my list. Less of Sigourney 'you can't fire me' Weaver would be good too :P
Alien Vs Predator Teaser
#244 posted by starbuck [82.33.88.32] on 2003/10/30 18:31:24
http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/...
Kell
#245 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/10/30 19:13:01
from what I understand you should be able to watch both the theatrical and director's cut versions of both Alien and Aliens.
The only scene I didnt like in Aliens's drector's cut was the dune buggy ride by newt and her parents near the start fo the film, totally kneecaps the suspense when the marines find her.
Tronyn
#246 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/10/30 19:14:21
yes you can, order the original, it's still available in R1 format, albeit very expensively.
And it's harder than just skipping scenes since they've rearranged some of the footage in the timeline too.
<HHRRSSSSKK>
#247 posted by Kell [82.41.49.31] on 2003/10/30 19:47:09
Starbuck: thank you, my man
Nitin: yes, the Jordan family scene was the one that stuck out the most to me, especially since it also includes Timmy, the derelict and a facehugger. Too much information. The Operations scene with Mac 'fat cop' McDonald ( aye, there's a canny name :) was rather good, though. Of course, by the time I saw the SE I'd seen the movie so often none of the extra scenes detracted very much. Perhaps it will be like that with Alien: DC.
Oh, and the 'dune buggy' is a Daihotai Tractor, btw.
As For The 9 Disc Thing
#248 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/10/30 22:14:53
from what I understand, each movie will be on a standalone disc, hopefully meaning better quality and the extras on a separate disc. Disc 9 is prbably documentaries etc ala disc 5 of the original release.
That AVP Trailer...
#249 posted by Wazat [144.38.206.112] on 2003/10/30 22:22:02
...had me pissed off because it wasn't showing any footage of actual gameplay. Then I realized it's an actual movie! Sweet!
Though, I'd maybe prefer a game... Lots of movies like this end up being sub-standard (let us all forget Street Fighter, Mario Bros., and Mortal Combat - heaven help us). I did like Resident Evil though (I've never played the game, I got into Dino Crisis), so maybe AVP will be good enough to like.
Well
#250 posted by Kell [82.41.49.31] on 2003/10/30 22:35:58
bear in mind that the franchises to which you refer are computer games -> movies; Aliens and Predators are movies -> games. The AvP movie is not to be based on the plot of either game - one little factoid that has come to my attention is that the movie is actually title Alien versus Predator and not Aliens versus Predator to subtly distinguish the movie from the games. Though that seems a bit too subtle for Hollywood :P
The plot for the movie has been posted around - I'll find the link if you want it. Near future. Antarctica. Ancient ruins. Read 'At The Mountains Of Madness' and you're halfway there. Anyone care to guess the author of said yarn? ;)
No holy cows. Nope, not here.
#251 posted by Scampie [66.231.198.213] on 2003/10/30 22:55:50
Rob Zombie?
#252 posted by Kell [82.41.49.31] on 2003/10/30 23:09:50
You, sir, are extracting the urine :)
LOL
#253 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.191] on 2003/10/31 00:46:30
teh humar!
...
#254 posted by starbuck [82.33.88.32] on 2003/10/31 06:40:54
one little factoid that has come to my attention is that the movie is actually title Alien versus Predator and not Aliens versus Predator...
Yeah, that stood out to me too, but I was worried it might actually mean what it says, i.e. one alien versus one predator in some demented 'Freddy versus Jason' style bandwagon-jumping. Hopefully the plot thats circulating contains a few thousand aliens or the Predator would end the fight in five seconds and we'll have a very boring film :)
Alien Quadrilogy
#255 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/10/31 13:39:53
Here's a long, long list of extras.
Alien:
Bob Burns Alien Collection
Ridley Scott Q&A
Theatrical Trailer A
Director's Cut Trailer
TV Spots
Aliens:
"57 Years Later: Continuing the Story" Featurette
"Preparing For Battle: Casting and Characterization" Featurette
"Two Orphans: Sigourney Weaver and Carrie Henn" Featurette
"Building Better Worlds: From Concept To Construction" Featurette
"Bug Hunt: Creature Design"
"The Risk Always Lives: Weapons And Action" Featurette
"The Power Of Real Tech: Visual Effects" Featurette
"Beauty And The Bitch: Power Loader vs Queen Alien" Featurette
"The Final Countdown: Music, Editing And Sound" Featurette
"Aliens Unleashed: Reaction To The Film" Featurette
"This Time It's War: Pinewood Studios" 1985 Featurette
Multi-Angle Pre-Vis Animatics with optional Commentary
Interview With James Cameron
James Cameron Interview/Film Footage
James Cameron Intro to Extended Version
International Trailer
Domestic Trailer
TV Spots
Easter Egg: "The Boy And His Power Loader"
Alien 3:
The Making Of Alien 3
Alien 3 Advance Featurette
Theatrical Trailer A
Theatrical Trailer B
Theatrical Trailer C
Theatrical Trailer D
Theatrical Trailer E
TV Spots
Alien Resurrection:
The Making Of Alien Resurrection
Theatrical Trailer
TV Spots
Additional Supplementary Disc:
"Alien Evolution" BBC Documentary
"The Alien Legacy" Documentary
Alien Quadrilogy Trailer
Alien Legacy Trailer
Oh, Yeah
#256 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/10/31 13:40:32
And the source was http://www.dv-depot.com/ for all of you who want to know.
Hulk
#257 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/11/04 07:46:33
just saw this and my god is it disappointing. It's very slow to start off with (which isnt really a bad thing per se) and takes itself way too seriously. And when it finally gets going, its too hard to enjoy because of the crappy and utterly fake FX. I heard before that the hulk looked bad but even the other FX shots could use a lot more work.
Good points - funky 'comic book' style editing which actually works rather than being distracting. Too bad the direction is not as inspired as the editing.
Also saw Back to the future and the first sequel for the first time. The first one's pretty cool, I was worried it might look dated and cheesy but I didnt enjoy the second one too much (too much Biff IMHO).
The Matrix Revolutions
#258 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.191] on 2003/11/05 13:03:37
meh. Unimpressed. Should have quit after the first movie while they were still ahead.
Several scenes felt way too long. It seemed to alternate between taking itself too seriously and having too much cheese. Unlike the previous movies, there weren't even any cool fight scenes to pique my interest. There wasn't any tension, and it seems the lead characters finally realized that they were going to survive, and thus stopped trying to dodge bullets. The ending was overly happy.
On the plus side, I noticed several religious and philosophical bits that are open to analysis. Half-way through the movie we discover that Trinity and Neo are not invulnerable, but it wasn't soon enough to stop me from successfully predicting the ending; although the ending still had a few surprises.
Uh, I don't mean to be overly negative, but I was indeed quite disappointed. There weren't even any hot chicks at the theatre to sit next to.
RPG
#259 posted by DaZ [212.159.60.58] on 2003/11/05 13:30:16
Thanks for the info, and I was worried while reading your post that you would give away lots of stuff but you didn't, yay!
Im seeing it on friday, we'll see...
Hmm
#260 posted by nonentity [144.32.128.133] on 2003/11/05 19:08:51
Revolutions; Cool action, although it all went a little Dragon Ball Z at the end :)
Plot was god awful, so were the last two, but this ignored a lot of previous plot as well.
I prefered it to the 2nd one, mainly since it was a lot more stylish and it had mecha :)
Oh, and the CG was better.
#261 posted by Scampie [66.231.198.213] on 2003/11/05 22:00:29
agree with dragon ball z comment... kept expecting neo to start charging up power and release hyper goku hadoken at smith...
overall, i think it makes the second 2 movies into a decent futuristic scifi film. first movie is definatly the best, and I'm not sure how I feel about it tying into the sequels.
there were too many things that I felt were left hanging in the film's plot and it feels like everything was just thrown together to quickly wrap it up. an example, as it's pretty common knowledge the actor playing the original oracle died part way thru filming, her explination why here apperance is differant seemed lacking in an acual answer...
BUT! I still feel all the action scenes were excellant, and there's nothing absolutly WRONG with dragon ball z-ish things in a live action film, and the mecha battle with robots was awesome. Again, it's an excellant sci-fi film, but I miss alot of the 'bullet time' matrix fighting that had really defined the series.
I feel that the three films will be remembered as a great trilogy, with the first being very awesome, and the next two being a good supplement, but not have the same magic. I'll definatly be buying all three when they eventually come out on a DVD boxset.
Scampie
#262 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.233.191] on 2003/11/05 23:14:52
I think part of the problem with missing pieces in the plot is that some info in The Animatrix and Enter the Matrix was not included in the movie. There were several bits explained more fully in the game (the Oracle's shell, and how the Logos got downed for example).
Revolutions
#263 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/11/07 15:36:07
Just saw this one. I thought it was worth the price of the ticket (7.5 EUR), and, in the end, I actually liked it, though I loathed the start.
The gunfight is one of the worst I have ever seen, but the kung fu was pretty nice. In Reloaded, I think it was just the other way around. Oh, well...
Still, lacked all the innovative stuff that the first part had, and, yes, the plot was crap, and, yes, Keanu Reeves still can't act, and to top it off he was, at times, even worse than usual in this movie.
I Liked It
#264 posted by pushplay [24.86.74.102] on 2003/11/08 03:29:06
lacked all the innovative stuff that the first part had
That's what makes it a sequel and not just a movie with a suspiciously familiar title.
Hard Boiled
#265 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/11/08 07:37:39
I just got this on DVD the other day, does anyone know what the native language is? I hate watching dubbed stuff. The options are : cantones, mandarin and taiwanese.
Nitin
#266 posted by Scampie [66.231.198.213] on 2003/11/08 08:52:45
Amazon.com lists Cantonese and English as the 2 availible audio tracks on the Criterion edition dvd, so I assume Cantonese is the original language.
#267 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/11/08 10:43:50
That's what makes it a sequel and not just a movie with a suspiciously familiar title.
I was talking mostly about cinematography. If they could've just recycled some of it from the first part, I would've been happy, but no, they just had to leave it all out.
More Of Everything
#268 posted by megaman [217.229.134.159] on 2003/11/08 19:59:33
Fuck Me
#269 posted by megaman [217.229.134.159] on 2003/11/08 20:01:21
looks like the wachossojgsoigjosp(i dont care for their fucking spelling) bros try to impress me with like 1 mio instances of everything at once in one picture, in one frame. sad that it just doesnt work.
Nitin:
#270 posted by metlslime [66.135.131.183] on 2003/11/08 21:52:04
just pick a language you can't understand, and then turn on subtitles in one you can. You'll be too busy reading to see if the lips match the soundtrack.
Revolucion
#271 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2003/11/09 10:15:15
Better than I expected it to be. More absurd things that were never explained. A hell of a lot more cheesy shit. And, winner of the Most Pointless Line Ever Award:
"Neo, I believe."
Of Hard-Boiled And Men
#272 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/11/09 13:23:55
The Cantonese soundtrack, while sounds pretty good, doesn't really look like the lips sync with anything. It's not that uncommon (from what I've seen) that the Woo films of that time look like they could've used some more time in post-production.
OOH.
#273 posted by Snagglegrass [24.158.204.102] on 2003/11/13 17:53:06
Got my Naked Lunch Critereon Collection DVD today! It's a two-disc set, one with a brand-spanking new digital transfer, and commentary from director David Cronenberg and lead Peter Weller, and the second with the customary Critereon Supplements, which include William Burroughs reading extracts from the original novel, and oodles of making-of stuff. I'm a happy camper for the weekend!
:o
#274 posted by Scampie [66.231.198.213] on 2003/11/13 18:23:21
forgot all about that coming out! I'll have to pick it up this weekend. Will go good next to my Fear and Loathing dvd :D
Revolutions
#275 posted by Gib [62.7.140.181] on 2003/11/15 15:38:50
I just saw it the other day and it wasn't what I expected, for a start there is a total lack of kung fu and with all those smiths at the end and he only fought one of them (although the punch through the rain was pretty sweet). Will there be a 4 or was that just to lead you to believe there would be one?
Mulholland Drive
#276 posted by Breaker Breaker [203.109.254.50] on 2003/11/15 18:28:03
saw it the other day. omigod what a load of pointless bs, an excuse for softcore lesbianism. lynch has an interview with some french guy and cannes press conference on the dvd - just rambles on about pointless crap nothing to do with the actual question. makes you realise the movie never will make sense.
what was alright was donnie darko. and i got audition, which was boring as hell until she cut his leg off. highlight of the movie.
just to sound lame, i enjoyed long time dead last night :P surprisingly slightly scary.
kill bill rocked too, though it should never have been chopped into 2, and instead shortened for theatres and release the long version on dvd instead.
Since When Does Softcore Lesbianism
#277 posted by metlslime [66.135.131.183] on 2003/11/15 18:33:35
need an excuse?
Saw Bound The Other Day
#278 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/11/15 18:45:12
and it proved three things :
- it's not just the matrix movies, the wachowskis' dialogue writing skills in general are just above George Lucas'.
- they know how to direct a movie when the script is reasonably tight and not self indulgent.
- what metl said.
Oh, and I did enjoy it quite a lot once the actual caper started. But some of the stuff before that was tedious due to the extremely trite dialog.
More Ramblings
#279 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/11/15 19:11:06
glengarry glen ross - more of a play than a film, but the weak direction made it even more so. Still, it has some pretty awesome acting from Lemmon and Pacino and one of the funniest cameos ever by Alec Baldwin.
italian job - enjoyable heist movie with some cool stunts and a novel way of stealing the loot. Not even remotely resembling the cool 1969 Michael Caine version apart from the inclusion of using minis to carry the stolen loot.
nurse betty - pretty good, but eneven and patchy overall. Reasonably funny, Chris Rock & Morgan Freeman steal the show but the other actors are good too.
the crow - saw it again and I have to say it looks dated. Sure, the visual prowess is still there, but Dark City did it much better later on. And the action scenes look pretty ordinary comparative to today's stuff.
identity - liked it up until the big twist which sucked IMHO. No clues given about it at all except one or two strange happenings which could have really led to any conclusion. The second twist was more conventional and more predictable. Well made up until about the 75 min mark.
big trouble in little china - heavily recommended, and maybe I just dont get it, but I couldnt care too much about it. Sure it has some nice humor and knows it's cheesy but I couldnt really get into it.
Lawrence of Arabia - lucky to see it for the first time on a projector, it looks fucking amazing! And a pretty good film to go with the spectacular visuals. Favorite shot has to be of the whirling dervishes along with the mirage when Omar Sharif's character first appears.
good, bad & ugly - I normally dont like westerns but reasonably enjoyed this one, probably because the style and coolness overcome the rest of the deficiencies. Good stuff.
Anyway, enough for now.
Mulhullond Drive...
#280 posted by leviathan [68.160.167.236] on 2003/11/15 21:49:19
It did kinda make sense. My girlfriend and I spent an hour going over our opinoins regarding what actually happened, and once we collaborated on ideas, the actual plot seemed to make sense somewhat.
The Crow
#281 posted by . [172.155.2.156] on 2003/11/18 04:43:35
There's a part 4 coming out with Edward Furlong starring as the resurrected victim, and David Boreanz as the "bad guy" (I can't think of the word right now.. protaganist?). As much of a fan I am of The Crow (mostly part 1 but part 3 was cool) - I think they should stop. I will see it regardless though.
And little factoid: movie franchise is based upon a graphic novel (fat comic book) written by James O'Barr after his wife was killed.
Two Towers Extended Version
#282 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/11/18 04:50:01
just finished watching the first disc and the movie is much better with the extra stuff. Its more rounded off and just flows a lot better. Its still inferior to FOTR IMHO, but much better than the theatrical cut so far.
Phait
#283 posted by Kell [82.41.49.31] on 2003/11/18 05:05:40
the Crow = protagonist
villain = antagonist
and yeah, I did know that about the graphic novel ( which is vastly superior to any movie )
Shambler Saw Some Films Recently!!
#284 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.33] on 2003/11/19 09:36:42
No really. Other ppl's faults though.
Matrix Reloaded - pretty good but a mixed bag overall. Some excellent scenes, plenty of good, memorable action. But as mentioned before, too much pretentious twaddle without revealing much that was remotely interesting (aside from the programs admitting they were programs), and too much cheesey soppiness without genuine expression of feasible emotion. A good film that could have been a great film with much better editing - needed to be sharper.
Matrix Revolutions - Similar view to Reloaded, although I found this one more entertaining due to the hardcore sci-fi spectacles (the initial entrance of the squids, and the flight over the harvesting field, awesome) and smaller doses of soppiness (that were sometimes done well). Again though, pretensions without exciting relevations - the relationship between the matrix and reality, and the problem of the Smiths should have been explored in a way that added depth and interest. A little gung-ho in places too. Again, a good film that had the material and potential to be superb.
In fact, as a trilogy, they had the potential to be THE best films evar, IMHO. The material is there, the style is there, the visuals are there, the ideas are there. It just needed to be sharper, genuinely cleverer, and less hollywoodised in a few crucial places.
Kill Bill Vol 1 Chapters 1-5 etc - I didn't know it was supposed to be 2 films so I got quite surprised by the end. Quite good film, definitely entertaining. Obviously trying hard to be hip and cool but could have gone further in that respect and been slicker and sharper. I like Uma's character alternating between vicious effeciency and tortured haggardness, some of the surreal humour and the unanswered questions behind it all. "Leave your limbs behind, they belong to me now" - quality =).
HELLBOY TRAILER!
#285 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/11/21 18:03:15
http://movies.yahoo.com/shop?d=hv&...
Biff:
#286 posted by czg [80.202.222.175] on 2003/11/21 18:12:24
Come back when it's not in yahoo's gay "we can't let you have the actual files because we think you are a dumb cunt"-format
RARR!RARRGH!
#287 posted by Kell [82.41.49.31] on 2003/11/22 05:45:05
YES, HAHAHA!! Godammit, Ron Perlman really is the perfect choice for Hellboy. This is good timing - I just bought my first Hellboy compilation a few days ago, and I'll be picking up the next one in a few days time.
Movie looks a bit like the X-men...only 666 times darker and grimmer. And Perlman/Hellboy is way more pithy and sanguine than Wolverine ever was.
*Kell goes bump in the night*
The Quad, Part One
#288 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/03 20:43:17
What is The Quad? Why, the Alien Quadrilogy 9 DVD-set, of course. It was released as of Tuesday, and after watching the "Director's Cut" on the film (which should more properly be called "the Studio's Cut"), I'm still on the Alien extras disc. My God, pre-production art, an early draft of the Dan O'Bannon screenplay, Ridleyograms (the director's storyboard art) and interviews and photos and deleted scenes and alternate takes and every fucking angle of the Chestburster Scene you could imagine. This thing really rivals Peter Jackson and New Line's amazing work with the LotR:EE sets as far as all the detail and love in the package -- and I haven't gotten the second movie yet!
Biff
#289 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/12/03 20:52:27
I'd love to hear your thoughts on the new alien3 cut, that's really teh only thing I'm interested in from this set.
Nitin
#290 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/04 05:16:31
Yeah, I'm anxious to see that too, not to mention the DC of Aliens (I know, I know...). Just don't wanna pass anything over -- and there's a LOT to look at here...
The DC Of Aliens
#291 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/12/04 06:36:14
is much better, except for the dune buggy into at the start.
DC Of Aliens
#292 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/12/04 11:19:50
is much better, except for the dune buggy into at the start.
Which pretty much ruins the whole movie anyway.
Nevertheless, the box set is incredibly sweet, since b_ff failed to mention that the set has both the original versions of all four films, and the special editions. Don't like the new version? Fine, go watch the original.
True Dat.
#293 posted by b_ff d_br_s [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/04 18:33:58
But I've already seen the originals already. So don't mess with me -- I got sonic eeelectronic ballbreakers, I got nukes, I got knives...sharp sticks!
Knock It Off, B_ff!
#294 posted by Kell [194.247.73.10] on 2003/12/05 12:38:12
Alright, people. look sharp! Somebody wake up Hicks...
HICKS!
#295 posted by Scampie [216.220.241.97] on 2003/12/05 14:33:08
Why aren't you working?
There's nothing to do.
Well you pretend that you're working.
...Why don't YOU pretend I'm working? You get paid more then me. Hell, pretend I'm mopping, knock yourself out. I'll pretend they're buying stuff and we can close up. Here's a fantasy for you bud, let's pretend I'm the boss and you're fired! If we're gonna make up shit we might as well rare on back!
FFS STOP QUOTING ALIEN MOVIES
#296 posted by czg [80.202.222.81] on 2003/12/05 14:38:17
...jesus
To Be Fair
#297 posted by starbuck [82.33.88.117] on 2003/12/05 16:16:28
bill hicks isn't an alien movie
not yet anyway
FFS STOP QUOTING MOVIES IN GENERAL
#298 posted by czg [80.202.222.81] on 2003/12/05 16:26:26
...holy ghost
Actually Come To Think Of It
#299 posted by czg [80.202.222.81] on 2003/12/05 16:27:33
This is the film thread after all, so maybe I can be a bit forgiving and just ignore it.
The Quad, Part Two
#300 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/06 10:29:12
Was a little disappointed with this end of it, seeing as how they didn't have nearly as much pre-production art as the Alien part did, but otherwise it was quite nice. While the Director's Cut of Aliens was really excellent (it was like the LotR stuff in the way that none of it seemed to be "stuck in"), I was hoping for more of Ron Cobb's and Syd Mead's stuff on the extras disc. But there are tons of interviews, behind the scenes footage, lots of stuff with Stan the Man Winston (who up until Aliens I had seen as "that other guy who worked with Rob Bottin on The Thing") and his crew, and all kinds of ambivalence between Jim Cameron and the British crew ;) Didn't leave me as satisfied as the first movie's coverage, but it was really cool.
Anyone Know
#301 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/12/07 19:54:01
who the initial choice to play Ripley was?
Why Don't You Ask Her Herself?
#302 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/07 22:24:36
http://www.allscifi.com/aridor/Ibo...
ICHI 2-DISC UNCUT SET.
#303 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/11 19:25:58
Yes, I am beside myself. Yes, I am kinda disappointed that it's R2, but like it's ever gonna have an R1 release. But it's Ichi, and it's mine. Plus it's got interviews with Takashi Miike and all the principal actors the Japanese press kit, storyboards and all kinds of shit on the second disc. I feel like Kakihara getting the shit beat out of him!
I Just Got My RvB DVD
#304 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2003/12/15 17:39:07
Funny stuff.
The Best ROTK Review Ever!!!!!1!
#305 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2003/12/16 16:24:00
http://www.aintitcool.com/display....
Better still, read the books and you'll save yourself ten dollars and three hours otherwise spent sitting in a dark room with a load of strangers, including several squalling infants and a giggle of teenage girls who are only there to dribble over Orlando Bloom.
(I wonder if, when ROTK finally appears in my local cineplex, there'll be any sound system failures, as happened with the last two in the series?)
Fun Things To Do During ROTK
#306 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2003/12/16 16:47:42
(Which you've probably seen before)
# Stand up halfway through the movie and yell loudly, "Wait... where the hell is Harry Potter?"
# Block the entrance to the theater while screaming: "YOU SHALL NOT PASS!"
# After the movie, say "Lucas could have done it better."
# At some point during the movie, stand up and shout: "I must go! Middle Earth needs me!" and run and try to jump into the screen. After bouncing off, return quietly to your seat.
# Play a drinking game where you have to take a sip every time someone says:"The Ring."
# Point and laugh whenever someone dies.
# Ask the nearest ring-nut if he thinks Gandalf went to Hogwarts.
# Finish off every one of Elrond's lines with "Mr.Anderson."
# When Aragorn is crowned king, stand up and at the top of your lungs sing,"And I did it.... MY way...!"
# At the end, complain that Gollum was offensive to Ethiopians.
# Talk like Gollum all through the movie. At the end, bite off someone's finger and fall down the stairs.
# When Shelob appears, pinch the guy in front of you on the back of the neck.
# Dress up as old ladies and reenact "The Battle of Helms Deep" Monty Python style.
# When Denethor lights the fire, shout "Barbecue!"
# Ask people around you who they think is the next "Terminator" sent from the Middle Earth of the future to assassinate Frodo Baggins.
# In TTT when the Ents decide to march to war, stand up and shout "RUN FOREST, RUN!"
# Every time someone kills an Orc, yell: "That's what I'm Tolkien about!"
# During a wide shot of a battle, inquire, "Where's Waldo?"
# Talk loudly about how you heard that there is a single frame of a nude Elf hidden somewhere in the movie.
# Start an Orc sing-a-long.
# Come to the premiere dressed as Frankenfurter and wander around looking terribly confused.
# Remove the top off your drink, then proceed to light the straw on fire and tell people in the seats around you about a great battle that took place in your cup long ago.
# When they go in the paths of the dead, wait for tense moment and shout, "I see dead people!"
# Imitate what you think a conversation between Gollum, Dobby and Yoda would be like. (Maybe Frodo should've given Gollum a sock?)
# Release a jar of daddy-long-legs into the theater during the Shelob scene.
# Wonder out loud if Aragorn is going to run for governor of California.
# When Sam holds Frodo's hand (or otherwise), start singing, "The Ambiguously Gay Duo!"
# When Shelob comes on, exclaim, "Man! Charlotte's really let herself go!"
# See how long it takes before you get kicked out of the theatre.
#307 posted by Scampie [216.220.241.97] on 2003/12/16 19:17:28
a giggle of teenage girls who are only there to dribble over Orlando Bloom
What, you're saying you won't be dribbling over him too? He's SOOOO dreamy!
On Return Of The King
#308 posted by Vigil [193.229.6.165] on 2003/12/17 17:37:16
Guard with Torch: That'll be ninepence.
Faramir: I'm not dead!
Guard: What?
Denethor: Nothing. Here's your ninepence.
Guard: 'Ere, he says he's not dead.
Denethor: Yes he is.
Faramir: I'm not!
Peregrin Tuk: He isn't.
Denethor: Well, he will be soon, he's very badly wounded.
Faramir: I'm getting better!
Denethor: No you're not, you'll be stone dead in a moment.
Faramir: I don't want to go on the cart!
Guard: We can't burn him.
Faramir: I feel fine!
Denethor: Oh, do me a favor.
Guard: I can't!
Denethor: Well, can you hang around for a couple of minutes? He won't be long.
Guard: I promised I'd be with the rohirrim. They've lost 3000 today.
On Return Of The King
#309 posted by Scampie [66.231.199.96] on 2003/12/17 18:00:53
Frodo bites Gollums finger off and falls into Mount Doom.
(omg spoilers!)
Oh And Trinity Dies
#310 posted by starbuck [82.33.90.202] on 2003/12/17 18:22:41
RotK
#311 posted by starbuck [82.33.90.202] on 2003/12/17 18:25:24
nice satisfying conclusion to the series, with uber-happy ending! yay!
probably my favorite moment was the Gimli line "that still only counts as one" or something to that effect :)
LOL Vigil
#312 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/18 02:31:16
I was thinking that same thing during the movie ;) And RotK absolutely kicked ass, especially the battle sequences. And I've completely changed my mind about Sean Astin (Sam Gamgee), who I originally couldn't stand seeing onscreen. His performance was quite good this go around, even better than in TTT.
Vigil
#313 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2003/12/21 08:36:38
I just posted your little routine there on the CHUD forum -- hope you don't mind: http://chud.com/forums/showthread....
ROTK.
#314 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.33] on 2003/12/24 06:06:00
Good.
Better than second, not quite as good as first.
Slow to start, but once it got going, it really got going.
Battle-scenes etc were great. Basically anything where special effects were involved, from the Shelob fight to the view of Minas Tirith, was really good. Proper fantasy spectacle bizzness tings.
Although there was the usual "Timoete advert" bollox with the Elves, the hollywoodised wanna-be coolness was mercifully toned down and even entertaining in a couple of places.
The destruction of Mordor and the final secen of Sam & Frodo sitting on the rock in the lava should have been an excellent finale.
Unfortunately all the tediously drawn out CHEESE after that spoilt it quite a bit. After each schmaltzy and unnecessary scene one thought "Ah okay, that's the end"....and then there was another....and another....and... The way this SHOULD have been done was to finish the film with Frodo being carried in the Eagle's claws, and then have just small, silent, sepia snippets of the "wrapping up" scenes during the credits. So obvious, so easy.
But still, a good film....probably a great film. But so easy to improve it by ditching the ending..
I Thought The Second Was Good
#315 posted by nitin [138.217.8.113] on 2003/12/24 09:21:33
but way below the standard set by the first. Seemed much more conventional Hollywood in TTT than in FOTR. So if ROTK is better than TTT, I'll be happy. As for the ending, I thought the last 15 mins of FOTR sucked but didnt spoil too much of the movie for me. So it really depends on how long the cheesy ending in ROTK goes for.
Sorry For The Spoilers Nitin...
#316 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.33] on 2003/12/24 11:51:17
...hope you just skimmed over and don't have too many inappropriate expectations. But one thing...
So it really depends on how long the cheesy ending in ROTK goes for.
Well, it feels like about 8 days when you're watching it...
#317 posted by Scampie [66.231.199.96] on 2003/12/24 15:17:12
I'm not real sure how I feel about the end... On one hand, I see where you're coming from, but on the other hand, they cut alot out of the books just to get it that short! The third book was pretty much all ending, the Ring was destroyed in the first few chapters! (much of the beginning of ROTK:the movie was the end of TTT:the book)
(Book spoilers next paragraph, so don't read if you don't want)
Alot of the things done to equlize the pacing in the movie meant they got rid of things like the trip home with the farewell to Gimli and Legolas (who go to explore Fangorn Forest and The Mines of Moria together, as they had agreed to do with each other), and the Scouring of the Shire (where Sarumon, now stripped of his power, has taken over The Shire but the Hobbits drive him out and he's killed by Wormtongue).
Some of these would have just been anti-climatic in the film, while others are plain boring unless you really want 100% accurency. I feel the movie did a good job of balancing the end to what was important to bring some closure to the story and serves as a good ending to the full trilogy as a whole.
Ending
#318 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2003/12/24 17:32:27
They could have given Saruman just one of Montolio's lines... just cut five minutes from the biffo at Minas Tirith to deal to him.
(Virtual chocolate fish for whoever works out which line I man.)
Fun Things To Do ROTK
#319 posted by HeadThump [65.141.72.194] on 2003/12/27 14:54:40
Point and laugh every time a horse dies
My Humble List
#320 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.131] on 2003/12/27 15:57:13
Alien (but not Aliens)
American Beauty
Animal House (I shouldn't put Old School on a list of best ofs because I have just seen it a few days ago, and I am still laughing)
Big Lebowski
Blade Runner
Fear and Loathing in Los Vegas
Fight Club
Fletch
Full Metal Jacket
Goodfellas
The Graduate (The long drive sequence (where Scarborough Fair is played twice!) makes me extremely nastalgic for Northern California)
The Kids are Alright (sonically inspiring, esp. live 'Underture')
The Magnificent Seven
Manhunter
Mean Streets
The Opening of Misty Beethoven (though generally speaking, I prefer 80's poof hair porn over 70's artsy porn)
Oh, Lord Where Are't Thou
The Professional
Pulp Fiction
The President’s Analyst
Taxi Driver
The Terminator
True Romance
The Usual Suspects
Excepting Fear and Loathing, where ever I fealt the book was better I didn't include the movie -- though the The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy deserves some honarable mention, my opinion of it hasn't solidified yet, and The Godfather was better than the trashy novel it was based upon.
If I had to pick one movie that literally changed my life, it would be Office Space.
I Have To Disagree Scampie...
#321 posted by distrans [211.28.141.26] on 2004/01/01 21:38:04
If Jackson knew he was going to leave out the unfurling of the elven flag, the healing at the King's hand etc. - as well as the corollary to the return of the king (the Hobbit's battle filled return to the Shire) - then he should have named the thing LOTR: Famous Battle Sequences from the Fight for Middle Earth.
There was at least forty minutes of dead cinema available for chopping if Jackson had wanted to make space to include all the King Returns stuff.
Jackson did exceptionally well to capture the essence of FOTR, he tripped up slightly with TTT and ROTK is a travesty.
LOTR
#322 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2004/01/02 05:06:51
I've been generally dissapointed with how much alteration and chopping the movie has done to the book. The movies, however, are still good, just tainted for me by how much is missing. I just wish they would have gone ahead and made it 6 movies, though I know the big studios would probably develop ulcer's on the spot at the possibility of flopping a six movie series (they're loss now, they could have made six movies worth of money).
I haven't seen ROTK yet, but I agree with distrans that Jackson puts in a lot of dead time. I saw the long version of FOTR and was amazed at how much useless movie time there was. It seems like he could have easily cut the dead stuff out and added in most of what he left out from the book.
Oh, and I heard they never go back to the Shire in ROTK. That part seemed essential to the allegorical nature of the story. Particularly the permanent effect the ring has on Frodo. Oh well. Not enough orc killing and special effects to make that part I guess. As pretentious as the Matrix series was (and good), at least they never shied away from the meaning behind the movies. As it is, the two movies I've seen are good action/fantasy movies, but nothing I need to see again. And that's too bad, because I already loved the story.
ROTK
#323 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/02 09:53:06
distrans, I disagree. The scenes and sequences you mention work well as a book (especially the scouring of the shire) but not in a movie adaption. All that would have seemed anti-climatic and not really all that engrossing to non-readers as there isnt enough running time to include all that and make it flow nicely.
H-hour, again I disagree. The long version of FOTR was perfect IMHO, it flowed a lot better than the theatrical and the so called dead time was actually stuff that people complained about being left out of the theatrical cut. As for ROTK, they do return to the shire and enough (or pehaps too much) is shown of the aftermath.
In the end, a lot has to be left out and or adapted to make it work as a movie, and different people are going to value the different components left out differently. Some may not care for the scouring of the shire but would have wanted more background on the eagles or the army of the dead.
Personally I loved FOTR, though TTT was pretty good but too dragged out and place ROTK in the middle. There's too much chees to much FOTR but more spectacle to beat TTT. Also, being prepared for the cheesy last half hour, I didnt mind it that much. BUT
*spoiler*
Eowyn killing the witch king and the manner it was done in was absolutely the weakest point of the trilogy IMHO.
Lastly, I thought the more emotional scenes seemed cheesy and excruciating simply because elijah wood and sean astin arent all that comfortable in doing those scenes. ELijah never really fully convinced me as Frodo anyway, but he was bearable enough.
More Films
#324 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/02 10:09:36
12 angry men - quality stuff, good script and performances although some of the reasoning wasnt all that convincing.
bad eggs - pretty funny and remarkably well scripted for an aussie film. Well worth a watch, just ignore the incredibly dull trailer.
barton fink - very stylish and thoughtful, albeit quite obscure. John Goodman is great and it looks fantastic.
das boot - There is nother submarine film. Period.
Casablanca - Never seen it before, very glad to have seen it now. Great script and performances, thoroughly enjoyable.
Chasing Amy - finally a proper film by Kevin Smith and an absolute hoot as well. Great stuff!
City of God - Incredibly stylish, virtuoso visuals and raw realism, but nothing much beneath the surface.
A Clockwork Orange - still very disurbing the second time around, still a very impressive film.
Midnight Run - Deniro hols up an otherwise banal film.
Raising Arizona - tone and characters just too obscure and chaotic for me to appreciate the comedy.
big lebowski - john goodman is great again but there's not enough of him to save this otherwise awful film with completely dead laughs.
deer hunter - excellent film all round, didnt notice the length at all. Russian roulette scene is indeed a belter.
donnie brasco - pretty good, nothign new but everything's fairly solid.
finding nemo - enjoyable enough but not Pixar's best (Toy Stories)
Gattaca - quite impressive but the groundwork was there for this to be an evenr great film.
hudsucker proxy - pretty good except for the cheesy ending. Some very memorable scenes though, especially the hula hoop sales.
raiders of the lost ark - great stuff, how an action movie should be done.
indian jones and the temple of doom - terrible movie save the mine cart sequence.
indiana jones and the last crusade - pretty good though very reminiscent of Raiders.
And Yet More
#325 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/02 10:16:20
italian job (2003) - pretty good, nothing like the original save the inclsuion of mini coopers which is good because they could have never captured the tone and mood of the original with the cast they had.
once upon a time in the west - didnt like the end (much too anticlimctic) but a fantastic start, great music and killer visuals.
pirates of the caribbean - didnt like Johnny Depp as much as everyone else, probably because I've seen him do similar stuff before (just not in a rockstar costume). Still, pretty good just not as good as it was made out to be.
to catch a thief - not as absorbing as hitchcock's other thrillers but pretty funny and well made.
deliverance - finally saw it, and didnt like it too much (Sorry Biff). The start was great (dueling banjos was pretty cool) and the movie worked well till the immediate aftermath of the rape (when they bury the first mountain man) but it just petered out after that. Voight was good but this is a one scene film if I've ever seen one.
ROTK Again
#326 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/02 10:18:42
I forgot to mention that it's well worth getting the 4 disc sets for the films as some of the behind the scenes stuff is excellent. After you hear some of the reasonging of Jackson, the writers etc, it's easier to understand their point of view on additions/modifcations/deletions. Plus there's great audition footage of Andy Serkis as Gollum.
Meh.
#327 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.33] on 2004/01/02 12:35:07
Oh, and I heard they never go back to the Shire in ROTK. That part seemed essential to the allegorical nature of the story. Particularly the permanent effect the ring has on Frodo.
*** SPOILER ***
You heard wrong, they do, and the effect of the ring is about the only one of the 48 consecutive endings that is tolerable.
P.S. I have forgotten the books and wasn't particularly thrilled by them in the first place so I luckily can enjoy the films in their own right.
P.P.S. Whooops nitin already correct you, ah well.
.
#328 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2004/01/02 13:26:17
Good points nitin and shambler. Like I said, I still haven't seen ROTK and I've only seen the long version of FOTR so I'm just working with what I've seen.
I realize a lot had to be left out. I guess it just seemed odd what was left in and what was left out.
Like I said, the movies are still good. Just tainted for me. I guess I was hoping for a little more on the story/acting side of things. I agree Frodo/Sam did a terrible job of acting on the cheesy scenes. Cheese can drag a movie down real quick for me, and that's probably a big part of it.
Good to hear they kept Frodo's ending in.
Sam Should've Been A Woman
#329 posted by xen [82.32.34.150] on 2004/01/02 16:26:12
It would've all been so much less painful to watch.
It was still good though :-)
Nitin
#330 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.146] on 2004/01/02 21:57:55
Good List.
Midnight Run impressed me much less the second time I watched it. I liked ClockWork Orange but it came up against my better book rule. Raising Arizona is wonderful stuff.
The first Raiders movie was entertaining as hell but you have to put aside that most Speilberg films are highly manipulative Statist propaganda ('This belongs in a museum!' Argh!!)that can infest your soul with a thousand viralent memes. But then again, I'm paranoid.
Gattaca is another great underrated film.
Headthump
#331 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/03 00:16:00
yeah, just trying to get through this stack of unwatched dvds that I have piled up. I was a bit worried at the start about getting so many movies blind and then not liking them but so far the unliked ones have been few and far between.
And no you dont take spielberg seriously (schindler's list excluded) :)
BTW, do you have any suggestions for stuff I should consider taking a look at? I already have these : http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
Still to watch about 10-15 of those, but fire away with any suggestions.
Eiouyftdewtyuhijy6t5dx Vgbhjhutewsxdc
#332 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.33] on 2004/01/03 04:43:12
Oooops just cleaning keyboard =).
Die Another Day
(in my usual attempt to see at most 1 in 10 "big" films, and at least many months after they were out :P).
WTF?? This is all a big spoof right?? Like all the most outrageous bits of old skool bond films, compressed into one, given an unhealthy dose of speed, and directed MTV stylee by some pop video director?? Bletch. Where can they go from here? Nowhere, hopefully.
Die Another Day
#333 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/03 08:42:24
blows goat's balls. Hoverboat flamethrowers scene was ok but the rest was absolute trash like the last 2 bond films. Goldeneye was the only decent brosnan one IMHO.
The Previous Two Weren't All That Bad...
#334 posted by xen [82.32.34.150] on 2004/01/03 08:54:55
No way near as good as Goldeneye but miles above the steaming pile of crap that was Die Another Day. Without a doubt THE worst bond movie ever made... looked like they were trying to compete with the Matrix, and failing. Will be interested to see where the next one goes, since to go more OTT than the last would be, well... near impossible.
Nitin:
#335 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.33] on 2004/01/03 13:08:19
I dunno, there were a few bits I liked - the Cuban island scene was pretty nice old skool style Bond, Jinx was cool, and Q was quite entertaining. But just as I was thinking "Oh this is okay", some utter bollox would crop up and my eyes would start rolling in despair.
New Bond Films...
#336 posted by Scampie [66.231.199.96] on 2004/01/03 14:08:55
I think Brosnan makes an excellant Bond... I just wish they'd get some better writers, directors, and quit the female equality crap and just leave the girls to be the eyecandy they should be. Bond is a sexist macho pig who happens to be a smooth talker, he shouldn't be dominated by strong female coherts who seemingly get as much screentime as the main character.
Omg Scampie
#337 posted by inertia [24.164.70.117] on 2004/01/03 15:36:48
I agree completely with everything you have ever said. Especially your thoughts on Brosnan.
Jinx
#338 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/03 21:38:54
the charcter was ok, halle berry just looked a lost kid in a playground holding a gun.
brsonan makes a decent bond, and I wouldnt say the latest films have strong female chorots, just try hard strong female cohorts.
Some of the older bond films have proper strong female cohorts without that aspect ever getting in the way of them being eyecandy.
ROTK
#339 posted by Apollo [82.41.13.84] on 2004/01/05 11:59:00
Loved it in the cinema, but it'll be much better when the extended edition comes out which is supposedly the longest of the extended editions, (TTT extended was fantastic, specially actually giving some decent screen time to merry and pippin) Hopefully it will give some closure to Saruman( though definitely not in the scouring of the shire way), the kingsfoil bit, faramir et Eowyn etc.
As for Die another Day, it is one of the shittest films i saw in a long time. Now if they had got the second half of Tomorrow never dies right (the first half was spectacular), it could quite possibly have beaten goldeneye. As it is however, the best bonds are still goldeneye and goldfinger. Just make the next film have the word "gold" in it, and not some meshed up combination of "dies", "world", "tomorrow" etc.
More ROTK
#340 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2004/01/05 16:08:25
I just saw ROTK last night and I figured out what bugs me so much about the LOTR movies: Frodo and Sam. I don't know whether to blame the actors or the screenwriters. They're probably both to blame, but every time I see them on screen I want to beat the shit out of them. They weren't such whiny, neurotic, incompetent twats in the book. They bore their duty with some dignity, which is completely lost in the movies. Not to mention the fact that the actors were absolutely terrible at expressing inner turmoil. The director/screenwriter/whoeverisres... certainly doesn't help them by pacing their parts of the movie so slowly.
They ruined three otherwise good movies, for me.
The rest was all enjoyable, though.
Thats Not A URL!
#341 posted by H-Hour [12.224.67.57] on 2004/01/05 16:09:26
That was supposed to be "director / screenwriter / whoeverisresponsible" in the post above.
H-hour
#342 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/05 19:36:41
yeah, that's basically what I was saying in my earlier post.
Err...
#343 posted by distrans [144.134.49.62] on 2004/01/06 22:26:45
H-Hour, I actually thought the extended FOTR was brilliant.
Random One Setence Recently Seens
#344 posted by Maj [217.205.117.52] on 2004/01/07 12:03:52
Pirates of the Caribbean
Good old plain fun action movie, Mr Bloom's sleepwalking nicely balanced by Miss Knightley's heaving bosom.
Donnie Darko
Brilliant, original, dripping with atmosphere, only slightly spoiled by Miss Barrymore's autocue reading and the slight impression of a puppy jumping up and down and squeaking "look! look! I'm so clever and referential".
Network
#345 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/08 08:36:19
saw this last night. Pretty good and very funny in parts but IMHO it was covering way too much territory for there to be any real focus. Still, good stuff.
Network
#346 posted by metlslime [66.135.128.76] on 2004/01/09 02:08:24
Something about this movie made me watch it again immediately. I guess I liked the mood of the movie and was trying to soak it up or something.
Also i had this theory that Diane had somehow snuck into Howard Beale's bedroom that night he had the vision, but unfortunately it didn't fit the facts.
Network
#347 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/09 08:14:06
I think what cracked me up the most was Ned Beatty's monologue to Beale, that just came out of left field without any warning.
I Loved...
#348 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/01/10 02:25:50
the interactions between the extremist group and Faye Dunaway's people.
Let's Move On To Clause E
#349 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/10 03:03:18
Subsidiary Rights.
Recent Viewings
#350 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/25 07:19:01
Buffalo Soldiers - good premise, decent first twenty minutes but either the scriptwriters wee changed after that or forgot to go to their complete quota of scriptwriting classes because the rest is absolute garbage. Pity because there was potential here.
Confessions of a Dangerous Mind - Quite good, quirky and enjoyably humorous. Bit fleeting in its take on the subject given the dark subject matter but maybe its better done in this fashion as the original story is ridiculously unbelievable anyway.
Finding Nemo - Very good, but no Toy Story. On par with Monsters inc though. The Psycho touch was nice with Darla.
Lost in Translation - Extremely good, albeit a bit slow. Also genuinely funny even though it relies heavilyon stereotype mockery. Nice uncontrived ending to finish up with too.
Once Upon A Time in Mexico - Complete garbage. What was Johnny Depp thinking when he accepted this? He's the only half decent thing in this film (although there probably wasnt enough of him) but not even he can save this atrocious film. Lackluster action sequences too BTW.
Oh Yeah
#351 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/25 07:20:34
if anyone coudl suggest a few more films I should check out, that'd be helpful as I'm nearly through my DVD stack anyway. Here's what I currently have :
http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
Here's what I'm getting in the near future :
http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
Nitin..
#352 posted by leviathan [151.203.37.161] on 2004/01/25 08:41:40
Requiem for a Dream
Suggestion
#353 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.235.190] on 2004/01/25 13:44:39
Waking Life. Although it may be found to be pretentious.
Also, Underworld is rather poor IMO. Visuals are nice, though, if I recall correctly.
Underworld...
#354 posted by metlslime [66.135.128.76] on 2004/01/25 18:36:14
IS rather poor.
Replies
#355 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/26 02:08:33
leviathan,
yeah I've actually been meaning to rder that, keep on forgetting.
RPG,
I've seen it and liked it, it was too cool to let the semi-pretentiousness get in the way. but it made me very dizzy on the two occasions I saw it so that's why I never bought it.
As for Underworld, I'm getting it mainly for my siter and the visuals. If it's compelte crap, I plan to resell anyway.
Any othe suggested titles?
Nitin
#356 posted by H-Hour [24.20.212.99] on 2004/01/26 07:24:30
I have seen three other movies with Audrey Tatou and, while they're not as good as Amelie, they are still good if you are as in love with her as I am.
Happenstance - Best of the three.
He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not - Decent movie until the twist, when it gets better.
L'auberge Espagnole - Cheesy, but it's French so it doesn't bother me as much. This one is probably worth passing up.
Also, State and Main is a good movie. Funny, it's about Hollywood taking over a small town to shoot a movie there. The characters are all just really good, and Philip Seymour Hoffman always picks good movies.
More One Sentence Bollocks
#357 posted by Maj [217.205.117.52] on 2004/01/26 09:12:57
Requiem for a Dream - Visually interesting, spoilt for me by deeply unappealing characters (and Ms. Connelly doesn't get her baps out), but lots of other people seem to like it.
Memento - Definitely see at least once, certainly the most original film I've seen in years.
Twins Effect - Usual oriental sword nonsense, great fights spoilt by dull comedy.
FLCL - Possibly the best thing ever, only spoilt by the fact that it's not a movie.
H-hour
#358 posted by nitin [128.250.6.244] on 2004/01/26 20:41:37
thanks for those but I dont really like Amelie as much as a lot of other people. I thought it was above average with some cool visuals and music which is why I have it.
State & Main, I'll try to check out.
21 Garms
#359 posted by nitin [138.217.8.41] on 2004/01/29 00:50:47
saw it a coouple of nights ago and it's very very good. Initially it feels a bit gimmicky with the structure but the more you get into it, the more you appreciate the skilful storytelling rather than noticing the gimmick.
And the acting is very very good, made it a bit hard to watch in some scenes personally. Only thing I didnt like was the end monologue but it doesnt detract from the rest of the film.
Oh, and Ms Watts seems to have a thing for explicit sex scenes.
Um... Hi
#360 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.235.190] on 2004/02/01 19:04:59
Go see Big Fish if you can.
RPG
#361 posted by HeadThump [65.141.72.160] on 2004/02/02 00:40:09
The premise certainly looks good, but I was curious whether or not Burton seems to be trying too hard to be weird. Not that a great movie can't have its flaws, like Ed Wood, wow. For an entire week I couldn't stop myself from in the same manner as Johny Depp doing Ed Wood. My closest association to a movie -- there was a breif period of time when I was but a wee lad <que the magical awe inspiring transitional music>, and the movie Blue Velvet was being filmed near by in which the 'ear' prop you see at the beginning was in my possession for safe keeping. I got to know some of the people who worked on the set. It was very realistic in feel but it had a nasty latex smell to it.
Uhm
#362 posted by HeadThumping [65.141.72.160] on 2004/02/02 00:42:13
'from <insert verb> in the same manner '
<cross-dressing>? No.
<talking> yep that is what I meant
Ed Wood
#363 posted by nitin [138.217.8.83] on 2004/02/02 01:07:54
depp and landau provide two of the best comical performances ever in that film.
HeadThump
#364 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.235.190] on 2004/02/02 09:23:47
Big Fish is not a weird movie. Yes, there are a few fantastical elements (how can you have a tall tale without fantasy?), and a few sets that are reminiscent of more typical Burton fare, but over all the movie is a story about a man coming to terms with his dad's quirks.
Well, Then
#365 posted by HasdThump [65.140.54.109] on 2004/02/02 10:36:46
I'm putting it on my schedule for next week end.
Agree With Nitin
#366 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.109] on 2004/02/02 10:38:53
atmosphere and comedy make that movie an incredible experience
Big Fish
#367 posted by H-Hour [24.20.212.99] on 2004/02/02 14:53:41
was good.
me likey very much.
Bond
#368 posted by spentron [171.75.59.92] on 2004/02/02 15:12:33
WTF?? This is all a big spoof right??
ALL bond films are spoofs since the very first one. Most cynical moviemakers dislike portraying such competent characters, however the joke was too subtle and moviegoers took it seriously and loved it like a glass of fresh water in the middle of a desert.
Just saw Open Range, decent western with some great moments, if a little long and sappy at points. Nice bonus documentary on the DVD also.
Spentron Is Right
#369 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.132] on 2004/02/02 17:15:40
look at the Bond names, 'Pussy Galore'. Come on! Ian Fleming was a satirical genuis (of whom the Cold War era politicians took seriously). Both Alexander Cockburn and the late Anthony Burgess have written excellent commentaries on Flemings literary and social influence.
Brazil
#370 posted by nitin [138.217.8.83] on 2004/02/02 18:44:59
just got through this last night and I didnt like it, but I could see why a lot of people do. I found the visuals ranging from average to above-average but again could see why some people adore this film's visuals so much. The humor's ok, de niro was the funniest, but it's not particularly my style. And the plot was way too pretentiously obscure given what it was.
Also saw Carlito's Way - not bad, cool climax, pretty standard crime-gangster film.
Watched Notorious last week as well. Pretty good, some great moments and reasonably tight plot.
Hoping to see Big Fish on the weekend, I love Tim Burton's visual style, even the non-dark stuff (ala pastel colore houses in Edward scissorhands).
Oh Fuck
#371 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2004/02/02 21:21:10
Posters for The Cat in the Hat have just gone up all over my local multiplex...
Just To Add To The Consensus
#372 posted by nitin [138.217.8.83] on 2004/02/02 21:43:48
Underworld does indeed suck. A lot. And there's going to be a sequel. Why??
Nitin
#373 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.19] on 2004/02/03 00:28:31
I haven't really paid attention to who is backing the movie as the trailers never interested me, but the backstory usually goes like this. Movie was profitable, though a critical flop. Producer would prefer to put money in a new and riskier idea and see where it takes the studio, but being in the middle of a second divorce he can't afford to do that AND keep his first rate coke habit. Thumbs up on the tried and true.
The Office
#374 posted by nitin [138.217.7.49] on 2004/02/15 16:55:09
just bought myself two seasons of this very very funny show.
Ricky Gervais is an absolute genius.
Masked And Anonymous
#375 posted by H-Hour [24.20.212.99] on 2004/02/16 08:55:53
Anyone seen this? I saw a preview recently and it looked like it might be pretty good. Some comments online weren't too favorable, though. Just curious if you lot had any opinion of it.
Bubba Ho-Tep
#376 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.229.24] on 2004/02/16 10:50:06
Amusing, and definitely worth seeing more than once. Bruce Campbell as Elvis is unequivocally worth the price of admission. Cool story, and something to think about. Although a couple bits struck me as odd, it didn't detract significantly from the film. Go see it if you can (showtimes at http://www.bubbahotep.com ), and if you can't, it should be coming to DVD at some point.
Tripplets Of Belleville
#377 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/02/19 00:55:31
You might have to go to an arthouse to see it, but it's excellent. Don't worry about the french.
Don't Worry About The French...
#378 posted by metlslime [66.135.131.83] on 2004/02/19 12:04:36
becuase there are only about 3 lines of dialogue in the whole movie, and they're dubbed into english (if you watch in the US at least.)
Freddy Vs Jason
#379 posted by . [172.130.91.41] on 2004/02/20 02:52:27
I just watched this, and I leave with this final impression: it was alright. Perhaps because I've seen several Freddy/Jason films I knew what to expect and wasn't really thrilled. There were some amusing moments between Freddy & Jason, and parts of their fights were cool. But it was pretty much a rehash with a bit of spice added in the mix. Though what else is there to expect?
Club Dread
#380 posted by [Jimbo] [66.207.91.70] on 2004/02/22 00:36:43
Club Dread
By SuperTroopers ppl. (Broken Lizard) coming out this friday, should be very funny indeed.
Watching Supertroopers Sober Is A Waste Of Time
#381 posted by Headthump [65.140.55.174] on 2004/02/23 15:23:54
You have to be wasted to truly appreciate it. Just an advisement if you plan to see the one coming out Friday.
The Missing.
#382 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/02/29 23:44:33
Caught this late last night, and liked it a great deal. Ron Howard has essentially done a 70s style Western, but with state-of-the-whatever digital grading. And Tommy Lee Jones and Cate Blanchett are both wonderful -- dunno whyen they're not. I can see why it didn't hit big at the theaters, though -- as I mentioned, its an old-skool flick, and a bit slow to boil by today's standards. But once it does get going to a gallop, it's worth the wait.
Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2003
#383 posted by nitin [138.217.5.150] on 2004/03/12 22:30:56
worth watching?
I havent seen the original so just looking for opinions on how it stands on its own.
Nope
#384 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/03/12 22:47:23
I'm not going to elaborate.
Orange County
#385 posted by . [172.138.96.121] on 2004/03/12 23:01:23
Yea late viewing but I watched it last night, had some funny moments mostly do to Jack Black but other than that it was ok.
Then Jason X was on, and I get like half an hour into the movie now realising how sucky it already is... so I didn't watch it.
#386 posted by . [172.138.96.121] on 2004/03/12 23:02:05
due*, christ we need an edit button UP IN HERE! AND SEARCH!
La Jetee...
#387 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2004/03/15 22:56:07
... 26 minute French flick upon which 12 Monkeys is based. Anyone seen it? Is it worth hassling my local v-rental guy about?
Uh
#388 posted by Tronyn [24.78.146.107] on 2004/03/15 23:53:01
The Missing was great, I loved it. An interesting mix of social/political and supernatural, Tommy Lee Jones played the crazy irresponsible lone wolf very well.
As for the new Texas Chainsaw, I have to admit I've never seen any of the originals, but I liked this version. Likely this is very much like the old ones, in that it was very gruesome and very sick, not shying away from portraying any potential form of suffering. Really nasty and oppressive, but well-done for what it was supposed to be I thought.
#389 posted by Scampie [66.231.199.96] on 2004/03/16 00:05:48
Love it.
Good solid plot, great visual style (B+W 'pictures' shown one by one with pacing to reflect moments of suspense and such), the 'background noise' of the audio is well used... just a great film. And it's got guys with those cool old style industrial goggles... :o
I'd say yes, try and get a copy of it. I have a 300mb .avi of it... you know, worse comes to worse, I could try and get it to you.
Er, That Post Was Referring To La Jetee
#390 posted by Scampie [66.231.199.96] on 2004/03/16 00:06:12
Ta Scampie...
#391 posted by distrans [203.29.11.112] on 2004/03/16 18:27:06
...turns out I don't need to hassle my v-rental guy at all, they already have it on video.
#392 posted by Kell [212.159.25.186] on 2004/03/17 11:13:14
And it's got guys with those cool old style industrial goggles... :o
I'll buy that for a dollar. Sold to the man with the industrial imagery fetish. Off to vstore I go...
BRICKTOP! BULLET-TOOTH TONY! BORIS THE BLADE! FRANKY FOUR FINGERS!
#393 posted by MisYu [80.54.66.93] on 2004/03/17 11:44:19
SNATCH <--- ROZPIERDALA \m/
The Passion Of The Christ.
#394 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/03/17 19:04:09
I can't believe noone's posted about this in here. I would have earlier, had I seen the thread pop back up again, but figured it had finally died off...
Anyways, the film is not that long, or at least doesn't seem like it, mainly because the experience of some of the scenes detract from your observance of time (at least that was my take, mebbe others would have the opposite view). Yes, it is gory, and violent, and no, it's far from the standard Holiday Bio-Pic of Everyone's Favorite Saviour -- which, of course, is the first thing I dug about it. After all the passion spoken of in the case of Christ's is indeed the farthest thing possible from Don Juan DeMarco.
If I had a verdict on it, I would oddly enough recall the words of William Friedkin when he spoke of the appeal (or not) of his film The Exorcist -- that it only gives the viewer what they bring to it. If the person in question is a Christian, and if the presence or archetype of Jesus has any sort of impact upon them, they will be moved by this film (I know I was, having had a Baptist upbringing -- I was most moved by the shots of Christ's hands when he struggled with what he had been dealt with -- a nice touch, and effective). It is rather well done overall, with gorgeous cinematography, wonderful acting (James Caviesel gives a dramatic performance without overdoing it -- which a lot of fake Jesuses do -- and in Aramaic, no less!), but on the minus side, ol' Mel does milk the 'THIS is in SLOW-MOTION because it is IMPORTANT' shots, and the score does get a bit melodramatic in places, which always detracts from the viewing experience for me. But again, overall I found it to be a solid production, and an experience to have, at least once. No, I won't be getting this one on DVD.
Good Review Biff
#395 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.101] on 2004/03/17 21:51:21
I rarely have the patience to watch movies in theaters these days. I'm sure I'll see it on DVD given my brother is likely to get it.
This movie is like a Rorshash test definitely. I remember seeing Friedkin saying those remarks, and elaborating that a Christian viewing the Exorcist would likely see that the Priest prevailed upon the demon, and a materialist would see the exact opposite in the same event.
However, there are those who have slandered Mel gravely. Frank Rich and Abe Foxman come to mind and I will never respect the opinion of either man again given the intemperence and intolerence they displayed.
Biff
#396 posted by nitin [138.217.4.4] on 2004/03/18 02:53:24
since you are the resident horror buff, would you recommend the new texas chainsaw massacre to someone who hasnt seen the first one?
Biff_debris
#397 posted by nitin [24.158.204.102] on 2004/03/18 19:40:31
To be honest, I haven't seen the new one yet -- I am gonna rent and watch mebbe next week. I've been told by some people at work who saw it at the theater that it is horrible, not even remotely scary and really dumb =D That on it's own could be a reason to avoid it, but silly me, I'm still curious ;)
But to actually answer your question, it might be a better idea not to have seen the original, I'd bet. I have, and it's a lot of fun -- nothing really like what came later with the slasher flicks of the 80s, but some effectively creepy moments and a bit of gallows humor here and there. Films in the 70s had a more 'experimental' feel to them, and tended to wind at their own pace, but the original TCM still rolls along really well, and has plenty of shocks and creeps along the way. I would bet the new version would have none of this, and might miss those little touches Tobe Hooper delivered in the first movie.
Bottom Line: Rent both, but I'd watch the original last -- you may appreciate it more.
LOL
#398 posted by That Idiot [24.158.204.102] on 2004/03/18 19:41:14
I meant, to do the title and the name opposite, jeez.
HeadThump
#399 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/03/18 19:47:56
Yeah, one of my fave things about The Exorcist -- and something you really don't seen in films nowadays -- is that the ending of the film is left ambiguous -- there is a resolution, but no "spin" to put it in one side of the court or another. Unfortunately, most films that simply show a story instead of leading the audience by the nose to tell them a story are Eastern and Western audiences apparently don't care to think much when they go to the movies anymore.
Biff, I'm Curious How You Would Interpert
#400 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.86] on 2004/03/18 23:05:12
the opening scene to the Exorcist? For me, it not so much sets the tone for the movie, but is an odd sort of moment in itself. The man stands toe to toe, face to face on an equal playing field with the abomination, and it at least appears that his mind is being consumed. It goes back to the old Philip K Dick question, how do you distinguish between an intense religious experience and a psychotic episode.
Easy
#401 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/03/19 00:12:31
The former doesn't exist and the latter does. Hey! I'm pretty good at this!
Pushplay,
#402 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.11] on 2004/03/19 01:41:57
except for the constant bleeding from my palms that just about covers all aspects of the matter; well, then there is this . . . . http://www.lewrockwell.com/spectat...
HeadThump
#403 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/03/19 20:58:48
Well, the whole character of Merrin rocks, because he's more of a shaman than your typical priest. His spirituality completely affects his vision, he is the man who literally does see God in the details. He can read the signs, and immediately knows what is to come, and what he must do. Pazuzu has opened the door, and gotten his foot in, and Merrin is waiting for his head to poke through =D
Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind
#404 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/03/21 14:13:39
I liked it. However, I don't feel like collecting my thoughts about it and coming up with something constructive, so I'll just post this conversation from IRC last night:
<RPG|h0t> BTW: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a fairly cool movie.
<RPG|h0t> Kaufman == teh r4wkest
<scampie> is it ok? i was hearing it'd suck
<scampie> mostly going on the fact jim carrey is in it
<RPG|h0t> Yeah it's pretty good. Not as deep as I thought it would be, but good.
<RPG|h0t> Acting is pretty tops, too.
<Asaki> What's wrong with Jim Carrey?
<Asaki> He doesn't do that Mask/Ace crap anymore.
<Asaki> Hasn't for a long time.
<scampie> Asaki: you mean, besides only being good in only... 2 movies?
<Asaki> I loved The Cable Guy.
<RPG|h0t> Jim Carrey doesn't do his Ace Ventura deal, so if that's what you're after you'll be disappointed.
<Asaki> RPG: No, I'm saying the Ace Ventura thing was crap.
<RPG|h0t> Meh you have no taste.
<RPG|h0t> But Carrey is good in Eternal Sunshine.
<RPG|h0t> Anyway, it's worth seeing, especially if you get to sit next to a hot girl like I did.
<RPG|h0t> Unfortunately, she was with her boyfriend. :/
Uh...
#405 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/03/21 14:29:16
How fitting that post 404 is about a movie that has memory loss as a central plot device.
#406 posted by Kell [212.159.25.186] on 2004/03/24 10:16:17
How fitting that post 404 is about a movie that has memory loss as a central plot device.
I was going to say something funny about that, but I've forgotten what it was.
This Thread Has Become Cursed.
#407 posted by . [172.169.52.138] on 2004/03/24 13:03:41
One Sentence Reviews
#408 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/04/02 04:43:39
The Corporation:
I disagreed with a lot of it, but it was well done and an interesting piece.
Hellboy:
It was ok, nothing spectacular.
If you could only see one of the two, see the former.
Forget The Alamo
#409 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/04/09 04:01:13
Hah, I made a funny.
Pushplay
#410 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.30] on 2004/04/09 14:28:27
As bad as Pearl Harbor in subjecting American History to the Hollywood formula? As far as historical war movies go, Tora, Tora, Tora, and the Thin Red Line are my personal favorites. A notch down but certainly worth seeing Black Hawk Down and Saving Private Ryan; Stephen Lange's portrayal of Gen. Thomas Jackson in Gods and Generals was really first rate though the movie itself could have been trimmed down an hour in editing without losing anything. I don't think I would recommend it except to those who are inclined towards Civil War History.
Besides, I Can't Imagine
#411 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.30] on 2004/04/09 14:32:55
a movie about historical figures too stupid to get out of a cul de sac while the getting was good being worth my time.
Spoilers
#412 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/04/09 20:20:57
But it's ok to spoil it because you shouldn't be seeing this movie.
I don't give a rat's ass about american history, The Alamo was just a bad movie. The director tried to set up a bunch of characters for the audience to care about for when they get slaughtered. Only he did a half assed job.
For example: one of the guys is Bowie, the inventor of a stupid looking knife. He has this vision of some girl standing in his backyard. 20 minutes later he's dying of fever for no reason and we find out that the girl he envisioned is his dead (for no reason) wife. 20 minutes after that this mexican girl taking care of him starts to make out with him. Then we find out that that's his dead wife's sister. It was a real wtf moment.
Dang Pushplay
#413 posted by HeadThump [68.18.162.215] on 2004/04/09 21:08:40
You are out cynicizing me and doing a damn good job of it!
"the Victim"
#414 posted by cyBeAr [213.65.179.30] on 2004/04/09 21:30:47
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt022434...
saw it a couple of days ago on tv and I can recommen watching it. Unpredictable story wich keeps it interesting and some scenes in an abondoned hotel with excellent atmosphere making you want to do a resident evil like game set in that hotel just because it was so cool.
Seen Heaps Of Stuff
#415 posted by nitin [138.217.7.36] on 2004/04/10 00:47:02
may have mentioned some already, cant remember
to catch a thief - good, hardly suspenseful but pretty funny.
this is spinal tap - I probably missed half the jokes since I'm not into this music scene but it was quite funny regardless. 18 inch stonehenge props rock.
sunset boulevard - quite good, though the acting occasionally gets annoying.
the hustler - pacing could be slightly better but very well made. Newman was great in this.
annie hall - th eonly woody allen film I have so far liked. Very funny stuff.
amadeus- good acting and story, interesting viewpoint and take on Mozart.
about schmidt - funny and poignant at the same time, jack nicholson is in good form too.
boogie nights - nto much beyond the pyrotechnic style but it's qutie dazzling nevertheless.
25th hour - fine film but I thought 2 sequences in the film hurt it pretty badly, the speech in the restroom and the dream sequence near the end. Otherwise, probably spkie lee's most accessible film, along with one of his best.
intolerable cruelty - coen bros lite but the first forty minutes were an absolute blast as were the last 10.
texas chainsaw massacre - Pushplay was right, very poor and a big waste of time.
SWAT - absolute rubbish, havent been this bored in quite a while.
rebecca - striking viusals (probably some of the best lighting ever) but it's extremely boring and poorly paced. Very un-Hitchcock.
the birds - dated visuals and poor acting, but the direction is top notch and it is quite creepy in parts.
Kill Bill
#416 posted by nitin [138.217.7.189] on 2004/04/26 08:56:56
finally saw vol 1 last weekend and caught vol 2 the same night.
I didnt find Vol 1 as amazing as some people did, it was however a very entertaining and stylish film. Chapter 1 & 3 rocked, 2 & 5 were ok and 4 was passable.
I was disappointed with vol 2, it had moments but overall the film felt really bloated and could have been paced better.
The dialogue, like the film, had moments of Taranino spark (elle driver's black mamba monologue, the birth testing discussion, and probably the very last exchange between uma and bill), but meandered way too much and felt dull and uninteresting (especially chapter 1, bud's monologues in chapter 2 and the spanish pimp in chapter 5).
Still, chapter 3 with Pei Mei rocked as did 4 with the fantastic fight scene. Chapter 2 was pretty good once Uma was in the coffin and 5 had 2-3 good exchanged between Bill and Uma.
What did others think?
Btw
#417 posted by nitin [138.217.7.189] on 2004/04/26 08:58:27
I also caught Master & Commander last night, which is a very fine film. It's the Das Boot of the normal ship genre : cracking fight scenes, excellent sound and visuals, and decent drama + characterisations.
Saw Kill Bill Vol 1
#418 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.219] on 2004/04/26 10:04:45
When it came out. Good dialog, of course, but the Crazy 88 fight was absuredly stupid. The antagonist would never see it coming when Thurman's character swooped low to severe lower limb extremities, and never attempt the same tactic with her. I watched it with my brother, a veteren of martial arts tourneys, and it was all I could do to keep him from screaming at the screen.
Nice to Chiba again though.
HeadThump
#419 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/04/26 17:03:35
You're missing out on something vital though. The Crazy 88 fight scene isn't part of a martial arts movie, it's part of an omage to martial arts movies. People who love martial arts movies and westerns are going to get more out of Kill Bill 1 & 2 in the same way people who love french neo realism are going to get more out of Pulp Fiction. The movies have a meta quality to them.
I Would Have Probably Appreciated
#420 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.101] on 2004/04/26 17:57:32
the fight better if I had not seen it with a knowledgeable sword fighter who nick picked it to death. I guess I was at a disadvantage (and hope the mofo doesn't do one of his periodic visits to this site and see this entry), though I did like the movie it could have been more disciplined (the older martial arts movies tended towards more realism than the modern Segal era movies) in its presentation, and saved me some personal grief as well.
#421 posted by . [68.22.92.55] on 2004/04/26 19:15:54
Yea saw Kill Bill last night (Vol 1). I don't know what to think, as I've lost my ability to opinionize on movies, so I'll just sum it up with "it was alright".
I Know What You Mean Mphait
#422 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.101] on 2004/04/26 19:34:38
Old media becomes pretty hard to quantify in how much you take from it after playing something as fun as Farcry for a week.
KillBill
#423 posted by Zwiffle [67.39.43.53] on 2004/04/26 22:36:33
Loved both of em, thought they were awesome. Not perfect, but then again nothing is. And the previews for Troy and Hero got my blood all circulated in my groin.
Five point palm exploding heart technique!
Pushplay
#424 posted by nitin [138.217.7.189] on 2004/04/27 02:59:09
I like westerns and I've seen the odd martial arts movie. Vol 1 felt like it had that meta quality you talk about even though I wasnt a martial art movie veteran. Vol 2 on the other hand still felt bloated.
Bloat
#425 posted by pushplay [24.109.0.211] on 2004/04/27 04:39:14
While Vol 1 was mostly steeped in the martial arts side of things, Vol 2 was more of the western. Like a western its more psychological then physical. There's more going on, it's full of love gone wrong and regret. I've even said it makes the series a love story. I haven't seen a good reference guide for vol 2, but I'm willing to bet there would be more westerns in that one.
There Are A Lot Of Western References
#426 posted by nitin [138.217.7.189] on 2004/04/27 07:10:11
probably quite a few I even missed, but my argument is that they dont make the film any more interesting. Admittedly, westerns have a lot of talk but in this case the talk isnt interesting, despite the numerous references.
Addenda
#427 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/04/27 18:25:19
Yah, the strong Sergio Leone references and the DePalma split-screen stuff were my fave kudos in Vol. 1 -- haven't seen 2 yet.
Meanwhile, Master & Commander kicks un-Godly amounts of ass. I wholy recommend it to anyone who digs historical drama, ship-tp-ship dogfights, and a bit of wacky humor.
Dont Forget The Dead On Anime
#428 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.48] on 2004/04/27 18:29:57
The shot showing the girl on a rooftop aiming down was very memorable
Eternal Sunshine
#429 posted by nitin [138.217.7.172] on 2004/04/29 08:45:27
Pure rockage. I guess the biggest compliment I can give it is that it blows all of Kaufman's other work right out of the water.
Zwiffle
#430 posted by Vigil [62.248.249.190] on 2004/05/01 04:32:14
And the previews for Troy and Hero got my blood all circulated in my groin.
Do you mean this: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt029997... ?
Hmm
#431 posted by Zwiffle [67.39.42.146] on 2004/05/01 09:15:25
Hard to be sure, but that definitely seems like it, except Jet Li was fighting the Imperial Army and their 4 best assassins because they killed his village or something, so the descriptions are a little off. Looked amazing.
Yup
#432 posted by Vigil [62.248.249.190] on 2004/05/02 09:03:40
Sounds like it. Good movie, especially for the visuals and the fight scenes. It's not really excellent, and some may find it overly patriotic.
Came out here over a year ago, BTW, so you're pretty late.
Doom 3 Film
#433 posted by . [68.23.78.83] on 2004/06/04 23:43:10
http://www.comingsoon.net/news.php...
"Universal Pictures has optioned Doom for producers Lorenzo di Bonaventura and John Wells, with Enda McCallion attached to make his directorial debut, reports Variety.
The script, originated by Dave Callaham, is adapted from the plotline for the id Software and Activision video game "Doom 3," slated for release July 15.
The story is set at a Mars space station, where an aerospace conglom is conducting secret experiments when something unleashes a demonic force that threatens to overtake the facility."
Hm...
#434 posted by necros [66.185.84.208] on 2004/06/05 00:39:19
i don't know what to make of this...
wasn't there suppose to have been a doom movie that was scrapped way back in 1990ish?
#435 posted by . [68.23.78.83] on 2004/06/05 00:57:34
Not that I ever heard of. Didn't Doom come out in 1991 or later?
Yabbut
#436 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2004/06/05 03:39:02
Notice that they're getting a n00b director in - not one who's done this sort of thing (or anything) before. I bet one long bent thing with a sort of lump on the end that if this movie ever appears, the director is Alan Smithee.
I've Heard Reports
#437 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/05 05:54:15
of there being a doom film, a quake film, and a quake 2 film before. I've heard the new rumours that there'll be a doom 3 film. If they make it, it will suck. No doubt.
There's no way they'd get a top director to make a game tie-in... and to make a movie with the basis of doom 3 work, you'd need someone like James Cameron to give us a repeat performance of what he did with the amazing Aliens. Admittedly that'd be awesome, but if they get a crappy director and acting nobodies, the fact that it's based on a game wouldn't make it much more watchable than the standard Hollywood sci-fi fare.
I Should Add
#438 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/05 05:55:56
that the hollywood sci-fi movies of late are about as watchable as seeing your village brutally murdered and your family raped.
Also
#439 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/05 10:09:20
There were reports of a Duke Nukem movie getting made, and they even started hyping it and got a website, etc. That was 3-4 years ago.
And then there was the American McGee's Alice movie, which was listed on IMDb, etc, and has since been taked off IMDb.
And
#440 posted by Kell [82.41.218.44] on 2004/06/05 10:39:54
Anyone familiar with GW's Space Hulk ( anyone? hello? ) might remember that they reported plans to make a Space Hulk movie featuring the Deathwing space marines, sometime around...1990? '91? Yeah. Right. Like that would ever happen.
The rather obvious pitfall with this sort of project is that most of these games are non-copyright, other-franchise versions of the classics - Space Hulk was GW's direct answer to Aliens. Doom3 plagiarises so much of that stuff it's not even funny anymore ( well, it is still sort of funny ) Remember the upside-down-head-spiders? Rob Bottin won't see a dime for those either :P
But without the original pieces of incredible design, engaging story and characters that made these movies classics in the first place, all you have is 'Doom3: Aliens Without The Cool Stuff' or 'Alice: Not Quite A Tim Burton Movie'
In other words, pointless.
Films
#441 posted by nitin [138.217.5.134] on 2004/06/05 10:43:07
Van Helsing - it crosses that line where it's so bad it's funny. Utter utter rubbish.
bridge ont he river kwai - fine fine film, lots of mood and good acting.
high noon - found it boring and rather one dimensional.
runaway jury - messy and formulaic, not really worth a look.
speed - I never saw this before becuase I'd seen speed2 and that put me off. Pity, because this one's obivously a lot more fun.
Oh and a doom3 movie wont be good unless there's an experienced hand behind it all. On a sie note, doesnt the upcoming avp2 movie look terrible?
AvP, Not AvP2
#442 posted by Kell [82.41.218.44] on 2004/06/05 10:55:36
It doesn't look terrible, it looks generic. Which, I admit, may be a synonym for terrible :P
Some Movies Seen Recently...
#443 posted by Jago [81.197.206.67] on 2004/06/05 14:21:49
Kill Bill Vol 2:
Finally got around to seeing it and while I didn´t enjoy it as much as I did Vol 1, it was a good flick and definately worth checking out. Vol 2 is noticably larger than Vol 1 (2.5 hours vs 1.5 hours) and doesn´t have as much shock value as Vol 1 did, but the dialogue and fight scenes are good. And Tarantino managed to bring much more depth to the characters with this one.
American Wedding (aka American Pie 3):
Overall, worse than the first one, better than the 2nd one. "Stifler´s Mom" got old this time. Not in the sense that the actress has gotten old, but in the sense that the joke(s) related to her got old. Some truly hilarious moments here and there (especially Stifler´s dance competition at a gay bar).
Next in line are: The Rundown, The Savage, Spirited Away and Gothika.
Roma
#444 posted by Blitz [24.218.135.18] on 2004/06/05 20:08:37
The last movie I saw that has made the biggest impact on me in the past year is Fellini's Roma.
There's something about the way it's shot that just grabs you. The movie isn't really about anything, but rather it provides an impression of the sights and sounds of Rome as Fellini knew it. The segments are strange to say the least, but they really do leave you with a feeling of completeness after you watch the whole movie.
I would say that the movie is about history and how an ancient city like Rome evolves to become something totally fresh and new, while still retaining a fantastic sense of self.
Roma is like a living postcard, drawn by a great artist, sent to you simultaneously throughout hundreds of years. It's tremendous, and I highly recommend it.
Max Payne Fan Film Or Something
#445 posted by . [68.23.77.70] on 2004/06/08 03:13:51
http://www.maxpaynehero.com
Troy.
#446 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/06/08 18:35:18
Smabherl actually went to see a film, yes really =).
My one film for this year and I thought it was really rather good. Unusually intelligent for a Hollywood blockbuster, I particularly appreciated the political conflicts depicted, and the notable lack of any obvious "good" or "bad" - plenty of flawed characters and the escalation of human error and misjudgement. No doubt this is due to the raw material of the story, and were I more familiar with the story and thus having to rely on the surface execution of the film for effect, I expect I'd have found it considerably less intriguing. As it was, I did find there was too much schmaltz, the politics should have been deeper, and worst of all the Trojan Horse, surely one of the most memorable features of human conflict ever, was woefully skimmed over when it should have been much more central. Nevertheless, still a surprisingly good film.
Hmm
#447 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/09 19:36:37
they should have called it Brad Pitt's Pout-a-rama. And Helen wasn't fine enough. In fact, she wasn't fine at all. 'Face that launched a thousand ships' my ass.
Also, Orlando Blooms acting made me projectile vomit at the movie screen. You milk-drinking cockmop.
I also saw Harry Potter 3: When Puberty Attacks! recently... I really don't know why. I mean, I've read all the books and seen all the movies, and i've hated them all...I must hate myself. Hermione is hot though, better than Ron anyway.
HP Sauce
#448 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2004/06/09 22:23:19
Apparently Harry is supposed to die about the end of book six - not that I've even bothered to check out the fifth one yet.
If this is true, it'll be interesting to see if Rowling succumbs to Doyle's affliction.
What Is Doyle's Affliction?
#449 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/10 07:13:28
i had the impression he killed sherlock off because he was uncomfortable with how popular the series got, i don't know a lot about him though.
C/f King's "Misery"
#450 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2004/06/10 07:46:59
After killing Holmes off at the Reichenbach falls ("The Final Problem," I think it was) fans of Holmes bayed so vehemently and so loudly that Doyle reluctantly had to bring the great detective back. Reading the stories from this period, their quality seems to go seriously downhill. Doyle clearly was sick of Watson's roomie towards the end.
Fortunately for Doyle, he didn't have a motor accident and wake up tended by his number one psycho fan!
In short: hopefully, Rowling won't give in to fan/commercial pressures and resurrect poor Potter.
Which makes me think of a possible alternate universe follow-on: Harry Potter and the Unfinished Business. In which an adult Potter, when not scandalising the wizardly establishment with novel application of the scientific method (especially one D. Malfoy, who thinks Mr. P. is trying to steal a march on him), is aggravating same with novel approaches to "Mundane Studies"...
Or More Likely
#451 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/10 09:25:50
J.K. Rowling will fail to do anything in any of her books more adventurous and dramatic than would be allowed in an episode of friends.... no *main* character dies, people join at the beginning and leave at the end, but by the start of the next book its all pretty much the same.
There's no chance the next book will start with harry aged 40, even though that would be interesting (makes a change). I'd even wager a large amount that harry won't die before the last book. Book number 5 was supposed to reveal earth-shattering secrets and change everything around... did it fuck. The reason is that Rowling has (A) no creativity, and (B) not enough balls to do something that might spoil the commercial success of the series.
and i quote "And then Harry played with some cards, but they were MAGIC cards! And then they played MAGIC sports from MAGIC land. And then the MAGIC staircases moved around and confused everyone, which was really fucking useful. And then they jumped on some unicorns or centaurs or some stupid shit like that to go fight magical Lord Darth Evil."
Who cares if it doesnt hang together or the magical system isnt coherent or sensible in any way. At least the characters are complex and finely crafted, right? I mean in the last book, Harry felt ANGST, which meant he insulted his friends for no reason and listened to marilyn manson.
"...listened To Marilyn Manson." Rofl
#452 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/10 11:06:30
Err but you lot do realize that the books are aimed at kids, and kids widely don't have the ability to critique something on an intellectual level? When they critique something, it's all about "I liked it," or "I didn't like it." Liking and disliking are, of course, subjective and completely irrational.
FC And Starbuck
#453 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.162] on 2004/06/10 11:21:55
I love you guys, but why would anybody expect any balls from Rowlings. It is aimed towards an adolescent audience, and though she is not up to the quirky imagination of Dahl or the sublime brilliance of C S Lewis, her work is quite good for today's standards. Just not what I really like.
When I want excapism, I want lurid horror, cynical mystery or Sword and Sorcery of the particurly Necromatic variety. Robert E Howard. Lovecraft. Zelazny of the 60's. Ross Thomas, or Neil Gaimon. Those sort of things.
If I'm searching for Ballsy Imaginitive fiction, Lucuis Shepard, J G Ballard, Gene Wolfe, Kate Wilhelm. Those sort of things.
If you are looking for that itch to be scratched from Rowlings, you are bound to be dissapointed from the first page onward.
Very True
#454 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/10 11:33:11
But being 'aimed at kids' doesn't mean it has to be derivative shite. The HP books aren't aimed at primary school children after all, so they could be a bit more intellectually stimulating, that is, if J.K. Rowling had a reading age of above 10 years old.
Maybe children can't tell the difference between a good book and a harry potter book, but thats probably because they've never read a good book (too busy watching Party of Five). If the books teenagers read treat them like intellectual midgets with no taste then that's what they'll become, thats what pisses me off.
Childrens books don't have to suck, have you ever read Alice in Wonderland? Or for an older reader, Phillip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy is incredible; it was written at the same time Harry Potter was being written and instead of being derivative, it's creative, and instead of killing braincells it's challenging and intelligent. One of the best series of books I ever read, and it gets trampled by Harry Potter for reasons completely unknown to me. Or do people really like not having to think *that much*?
That Reply Was To RPG
#455 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/10 11:39:10
but i guess it applies to much of your post too, Headthump, which i largely agreed with, although I heartily hope you are wrong in saying "her work is quite good for today's standards".
Maybe I've just been lucky in everything else I've recently read, but if Harry Potter is good by today's standards then i should be able to get on the bestsellers list by drinking 10 pints of imported lager and then pissing my novel in the snow.
No, Starbuck.
#456 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/10 12:16:02
But that would get you credit with the nihilistic artist crowd.
I'll Have To Check Out That Dark Materials
#457 posted by HeadThump [65.141.127.18] on 2004/06/10 12:54:03
trilogy. I'm not familiar with it but you make it sound very interesting. Thing is, I could never relate to kids especially when I was a kid. At ten my favorite book was a collection of Tolstoy short stories. I was much smarter and more intellectual then (peaking at the age of twelve, downward spiral sense).
By the time I became an adolescent and teenager however, my taste changed to pretty much what they are today.
My three smug little nieces all read Harry Potter the way Rabinical students read the Talmud. I don't get it, I didn't like the two Potter books that I did read.
I think it may have something to do with the 'elitistic' concepts in the books. The idea of the muggles. It is an elitism they can wrap their itty, bitty little brains around and adopt as their own way of seeing things and looking down their upturned noses at those who are not in on it.
That to me, I believe is its real appeal.
Interesting Point There
#458 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/10 15:11:48
you might be on to something. But if they wanted to do elitism right, why didn't they just create a Func_ account?
Funny,
#459 posted by HeadThump [65.141.72.148] on 2004/06/10 15:43:04
It is my niece Rhonda who lost my Mission Pack CDs. She had a hand-me-down PI from me for years so it was one of the few games she could play; a little speedrunner devil at one time. Now her system is better than mine and it is loaded with nothing but Sims crap. What a waste.
Headthump
#460 posted by Fat Controller [203.97.2.242] on 2004/06/10 18:24:54
Rowling does seem to be poking sly fun at both the English class structure with her "muggle" talk, but also apartheid as well. Mind you, I couldn't read the damn books without wanting to cloud wizard-dom about its collective ears and drag it kicking and screaming into the modern era.
Er...
#461 posted by underworldfan [128.195.84.154] on 2004/06/10 21:35:42
starbuck your jokes are even better after the 3 months away. ;)
Anyway, Back To Films...
#462 posted by distrans [203.32.39.126] on 2004/06/16 21:17:38
Voices from a Distant Star.
Unlike Vampire Hunter D, which used multiple media (at the back end) in delivering an awesome anime experience. 'Voices' uses different techniques in the same media. Some of the scenes are literally mere sketches, some fully worked up set pieces. The whole thing hangs together brilliantly, with the simple but well crafted soundtrack acting as subliminal glue.
Hire it, watch it, cry, be at peace.
The Third HP...
#463 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2004/06/20 23:52:32
...might've had no balls in the literary sense, but the film was excellent. It did introduce some new elements (girl-power Hermione was a scream) but more importantly the director and cinematographer have finally opened up the vista to big screen dimensions. Visually, the first two now seem "made for television".
Did anyone else think "I'm going to use that" when the youngens where descending the divination tower and passed by the window with a stair on the other side of the tower heading upward? Cool!
...and eratum in the previous post: that should be Voices of a Distant Star.
Juggernant_vi
#464 posted by juggernant_vi [216.126.128.53] on 2004/06/22 00:50:57
I think donnie darko was a kickass movie and i loved the six foot tall bunnyrabbit named frank he was so evil looking.The idea of time travel i thought was pretty cool.
Nice Soundtrack Too
#465 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/22 09:32:10
echo and the bunnymen, the church, tears for fears, joy division... the cover of mad world was good too.
Mad World
#466 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/22 09:46:46
was the perfect fit at the end.
Mad World
#467 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.238] on 2004/06/22 10:38:46
Brilliant Movie
The vacant, happy zombie expression on the leads face during the ENTIRE movie definitely leaves an impression.
Also
#468 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/22 11:15:12
not only was mad world the perfect end, but i think putting 'The Killing Moon' at the beginning was just as good a choice. Great atmosphere, that movie... captured a familiar but obscure mood/feeling very well.
Starbuck
#469 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/22 22:05:05
agreed.
I'm looking forward to checking out the re-relase of the movie in the Director Cut format. Most these DC's dont really do much, but it could be interesting in this case.
Chronicles Of Riddick
#470 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/24 20:14:10
Was a blast. Sure, it's science fiction that's more heavy on the fiction, but it's a romp -- full of decent effects, sleek production and that foxey merc that somehow got lost in the shuffle (hope she shows up in the third movie -- which they damned well better have, btw, judging by the end of this one).
#471 posted by Kinn [81.7.58.131] on 2004/06/24 20:41:51
Haven't seen Riddick, but the presence of the shockingly talentless Thandie Newton is enough to put me off. I'll probably catch it on DVD.
On another note, I've just downloaded the Aliens vs Predator trailer. I remember before this was announced, getting teased with rumours of Cameron's Alien 5 - but no... looks like we're gonna have to suffer this sci-fi-channel-grade shlock with Paul W S "Everything I touch turns to crap" Anderson at the helm.
Thats A Bad Middle Name
#472 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/25 07:39:01
his parents must have been CRUEL
Also
#473 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/25 07:39:43
blessed with precognitive ability
Yep,
#474 posted by Kinn [217.140.38.160] on 2004/06/25 08:24:14
As much as I desire everything with Anderson's name attached to it to tank miserably at the box office, I kind of want AvP to do well, because at least that should greenlight the above-mentioned Cameron project.
But Thats Just A Rumor?
#475 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/25 12:13:28
I'm sure everyone would agree Cameron is the ultimate Alien films director, and he should not only do another, but make a new one every year to satisfy my craving. I'm sure if he wanted to do one it'd get greenlighted immediately, wouldnt it? I hope so.
Ridley Scott's
#476 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/25 12:24:53
also expressed intentions to revisit the alien franchise if there is a good enough script.
Heh
#477 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/25 12:27:10
so he's not coming back then.
Seed Of Chucky
#478 posted by . [68.251.200.56] on 2004/06/25 12:37:15
Chucky's little demonling kid is voiced by none-other than Billy Boyd of LOTR.
James Cameron
#479 posted by Kinn [217.140.38.170] on 2004/06/25 12:58:37
is apparently working on a huge project. He is being very secretive about it, but says that it's a) inspired by ROTK, and b) a sci-fi set in the future.
I have two theories - either this is the rumoured 'His Dark Materials' adaptation, or it could be an epic set in the Aliens universe, i.e. Alien 5. I'm hoping for the latter.
Holy Fuck
#480 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/25 13:10:39
that sounds good
i don't think it sounds like the 1st, simply because its not set in the future.
I'll hope for Alien 5 too, but i can't really see how it can be inspired by Return of the King, unless he means huge battle scenes and impromptu singing. Also if he manages to bring back hudson somehow and cast arnie, he'll have made the best possible movie!
Starbuck
#481 posted by Kinn [81.7.57.194] on 2004/06/25 14:11:16
I read the quote on theonering.net, but I can't dig it up again, because their archive system is so fubared. The gist of it is that he wants to emulate the huge epicness/cinematic style of ROTK. I can see this being translated into massive battles on the Alien homeworld, or even *gasp* a massive Earth invasion.
Starbuck, You Are Wrong.
#482 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/25 19:30:07
Cameron can hold his own and all, but he's no Ridley Scott. Just remember, if the first film had been like Cameron's the project would've been a really bad television series like Aliens AL-1 by now.
Coming This Fall On UPN!
#483 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/06/25 19:35:10
By That
#484 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/25 20:24:10
should i infer that you prefer Alien to Aliens?! subjectivity aside, there's an opinion thats plain wrong.
Personally,
#485 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.189] on 2004/06/25 21:23:40
I hated Aliens; IMHO, a predictable and boring action flick.
I loved Alien; a first rate and very suspenseful horror movie that served to extend the Science Fiction genre at a time it was being dumbdowned by Star Wars and its imitators.
I actually liked Alien 3 as a low key and unpretensious sequel in the spirit of the first movie.
I have never seen the fourth even though Winona is a living doll incapable of fault of any kind no matter what the media may say, IMHO.
Alien
#486 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/26 01:05:03
was a far better film on every level, but Aliens was so much more fun. I like both but if I had to rate, I'd go with Alien.
As for having an epic scale Alien movie, please no. That sounds like immense suckage ala starship troopers.
Immense Suckage Ala Starship Troopers
#487 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.157] on 2004/06/26 01:44:05
Heinlein deserved much better than what they delivered in that movie. The novel was provocative in the best sense of the word.
Don't Get Me Wrong
#488 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/26 10:26:22
I like Aliens big-time, and watch it my SE version regularly. But yes, Alienis way better. In retrospect I'm sure it looks like nothing innovative or groundbreaking, but in '79 it was -- and to a great degree it still is. Like 2001 and Blade Runner (another Ridley Scott film), it changed the genre of scifi at the movies significantly and for the better.
<- USCM
#489 posted by Kell [194.247.73.31] on 2004/06/26 12:46:06
The suggested lineup when I last read the rumour was:
James Cameron: script
Ridley Scott: director
Sigourney Weaver: overpaid, underwhelming, clueless ego
One of these three would be very bad for the Aliens phenomenon. Can you guess which one?
[hint: it's not the first two]
As I Said
#490 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/26 13:53:47
its time arnie starred in an alien movie :)
Serious?
#491 posted by . [68.78.216.64] on 2004/06/26 14:15:01
I thought most would not prefer Arnie in Aliens much less another action movie
Obviously It Depends
#492 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/26 14:32:53
... on the style and director of the film. He was good in Predator, for example.
Total Recall.
#493 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/26 14:51:42
Best Ahnuld move ever: SEE J00 AHT DEH PAHTY RIKTURR!
Awesome Movie
#494 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/26 15:54:42
CONSIDER THAT A DIVOURSE!!
The Stepford Wives
#495 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/26 20:03:43
Just got back from it. Basically, it's a Simpsons episode done as a live action film, and it doesn't carry over at all. Some really funny parts (The Walken handling the announcing chores during a remote-controlled toy robot battle was my personal fave), but the script was really faulty and confusing, and the balance was way too uneven to make the entire film an enjoyable experience. Just glad it was a matinee.
Total Recall
#496 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/26 22:42:15
biff,
I love that line, typical arnie cheese & charm rolled into one.
Ahnuld
#497 posted by underworldfan [63.198.18.165] on 2004/06/27 13:35:54
Best Ahnuld move ever: SEE J00 AHT DEH PAHTY RIKTURR!
Its somewhat scary that this man now has control over the state of california.
Uwf
#498 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/06/27 15:15:46
The man came from a foreign country with a few bucks and some big muscles and is now worth a large fortune. He did an excellent job managing his identity and he made a lot of money in realestate and stocks. He may not have been elected for the right reasons but I think California could have done a lot worse.
Agreed
#499 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/06/27 15:26:15
if nothing else, his drive to succeed will help him along
<-- Squeal Taxpayer, Squeal!
#500 posted by HeadThump [65.141.72.191] on 2004/06/27 19:06:10
As if the professional politicians in California were doing any better. Arnold is a natural leader; optimistic and driven. Ideology is entirely secondary here. I would prefer to be fleeced by someone like Arnold than that sourpuss Davis. Arnold would never forget to include the reach around.
Plus
#501 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/27 19:58:53
Everyone just refers to him as "Arnold," whereas you felt obliged to call the former governer "Davis." People always prefer someone they're on a first-name basis with.
And...
#502 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2004/06/27 20:05:30
...I am not my script.
RPG
#503 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/06/27 22:34:18
That's an interesting theory, but I think everyone says Arnold Schwarzenegger and types Arnold beause they're afraid to try to spell his last name. (I used google of course.) If someone walked up to me on the street and started talking aboit Arnold I probably wouldn't know who they were referring to.
But If They Said It Like
#504 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.214] on 2004/06/27 22:42:39
'Ahh-nahlld', you would get it.
Arnie
#505 posted by VoreLord [203.51.221.77] on 2004/06/28 04:11:17
A person who has the determination, the will, the drive to achieve the heights that he has, whether it be in Body Building, Acting, whatever, I think has that special something that sets them apart from the pack. Over here in Oz, where I am, a lot of people I know think it's a bit of a joke, him being in that position. But hey, he is an achiever, whether he is any good at it or not, only time will tell. One thing for sure, he's not in it for the fame or fortune.
I'm In Oz
#506 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/28 04:53:18
and I think it's a joke, but then the appointment of bush was no less a joke.
Kinda Surprised
#507 posted by . [68.78.216.64] on 2004/06/28 06:13:28
People from other countries care about other countrie's politicians.
Bush Thread
#508 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/06/28 06:29:17
With a president like Bush, everybody all over the world have to care about US politics, especially US peoples !!!
I know that "frenchies" are not able to criticate US politics with our "thousands" of politic party here, but at least admit that it will be a pure shame if US people trust one more time Bush and its administration...
Vote for Kerry !!!! just because he practice windsurf like me ;D
Just..
#509 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/06/28 06:30:47
.. view "Farenheit 9/11" to be conviced
LOL
#510 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/28 09:52:01
Well since it's back onto movies--I will not watch Farenheit 9/11 because:
1. Michael Moore is a propagandist. I'm not interested in the cinematography, or his "talent" as a film maker, so why else would I watch the movie if I know it's impartial and imbalanced?
2. Wait, I don't have a second reason, and the first is enough of a reason by itself. Well, I suppose I do have a second reason: I'd rather not support someone when they're intentionally spreading untruths.
3. Oh yeah, I knew there was another reason I don't like Michael Moore: he didn't have enough respect for Bradbury to ask him if he could name the movie after Bradbury's story.
P.S. The election is a long way off, but right now it looks like I'm not going to vote for Bush, so no comments saying I'm biased, okay?
Weeee Totally Misspelled "Fahrenheit" Kekek ^__________^
#511 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/28 09:53:25
.
RPG
#512 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/06/28 10:15:56
I apologize for the typo error... anyway
Even if you think M.Moore is a propagandist, even if you don't like his "poor cinematographic talent", I think his film is really worth seen... just to understand what is M.Moore's feeling about US administration politics... I agree he overdoes a lot all the related topics, but it's for him the only way to make understand some people what is really Bush administration...
Furthermore, I'm not able to vote for Bush or Kerry... I don't live in USA.. I'm french...
Oh, just one thing... you are biased.... he he he...
;D
*shrug*
#513 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/28 10:35:46
I'm glad you liked the movie. I'm still not going to watch it. :)
RPG
#514 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/06/28 10:39:08
No problem... It was just my opinion... Everybody is free to watch or not any movies he wants...
... and you are still biased ... :D !!!
Mike Moore
#515 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/28 11:24:43
all I've seen of his is Bowling for Columbine and based on that, I agree with RPG's assessment of him as a filmaker and interviewer.
Having said that, I still found BFC to be quite good simply because the topic, the people he interviewed and some of their viewpoints were just flat out interesting.
On A Side Note
#516 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/06/28 11:28:19
Finally caught Big Fish and thought it stank. It's like a collection of snippets from all of burton's other filmas mismashed with an overdose of sentimentality.
Also saw Shrek2 and was disappointed, no where near the same level as the first (which was pretty good), some good laughs though.
. . . Moore & Reality -- Tofu For You, Cow For Me!
#517 posted by HeadThump [65.140.54.53] on 2004/06/28 13:28:29
I have also seen the other Moore movies Roger & Me, and Bowling for Columbine. Too much of his work is dependent on distortion of fact (in Roger & Me, he literally turned the time line of events backwards to achieve his narative logic). In Farenheit 9/11 he spends the first thirty minutes or so making the argument that the Bush family is in cohoots with the Saudi's and that the reason we went to war is due to these vaguely defined powers-that-be and their commercial interest. However to achieve this logic Moore ignores the fact that the Saudis opposed the war!
Moore's agenda would be worse for this Nation than what the Democrats or the current Republicans have to offer. I have read his blogs and know his opinions pretty well. He is a creature of the hard Left. Whatever peace he advocates on the foreign policy scene would be more than made up for by the coercion he advocates in matters of domestic policy.
My biasis certainly are not pro Bush. I voted for him in 2000, but like RPG I am not at all happy with the results.
Eh
#518 posted by . [68.78.216.64] on 2004/06/28 13:42:16
One would think Moore would be the guy to open people's eyes with all sorts of truths, but now that people evidently hate him, and no one likes Bush, I wonder who the fuck to trust? No one, I guess.
And
#519 posted by . [68.78.216.64] on 2004/06/28 13:42:36
How do we know Moore is lying?
As Well,
#520 posted by JPL [212.96.78.42] on 2004/06/28 14:55:38
How do we know Moore is true ?? There certainly in Moore, like in Bush a part of truth, and a part of lie.. more or less.. Just a question, after 9/11, the target was Bin Laden, in Afghanistan..I'm sure Afhganistan war was justified, but Iraq was was not for sure.. oil was the only target, like if Bush was frustrated not to catch Bin Laden... Do you really think Irak was friendly with AlQaida ?? Anyway, oil is there for sure ... do you really think Saddam have massive destruction weapons ?? And so where are these weapons ?? Anyway, oil is here for sure ... The target has just moved..
And I agree Moore exagerate deliberatly in his film and he is clearly not impartial...
And like Phait said, Moore would be the guy to open people's eyes with all sorts of truths ... and sure truth will be very hard to find.. even if we are hardly looking for it...
I Dont Want To Get Into A Debate
#521 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.101] on 2004/06/28 16:00:28
that gets off the subject of the movie. But ask your self this, the claim that it is 'about oil', what does it answer? Does Exon need war to get rich off of oil? No. Do the Saudis need war to get rich off of oil? Or even as a precursor to jack the price up? No (the supply peaks are doing a good job of that). Does even the milatary-industrial-complex need the war to get rich? Not even them. Their stock shot up and their contracts were signed in the days fallowing 9/11.
The war was ideologically drive, and its perpertrators and their interests are easy to identify by their own writings.
Bah.
#522 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/28 16:35:31
No film ever made is "true" -- it's been edited and even before the edit phase shots were taken while others weren't. For it to be "true" it would have to conisder all angles and dimensions of every given argument, and -- short of turning it into a Charles Ives-esque assault with multiple screens and soundtracks -- this simply isn't possible.
Additionally, if anyone's viewpoints are so weak that any documentary -- no matter how badly made, edited or planned -- could radically change them, the said viewpoints were either unfounded or the person is a complete schizophrenic.
BTW, I want to see Fahrenheit 9/11.
Biff
#523 posted by HeadThump [65.141.127.17] on 2004/06/28 17:02:51
'-- short of turning it into a Charles Ives-esque assault with multiple screens and soundtracks -- this simply isn't possible. '
That is a pretty fucking awesome idea. Imagine a documentary on the drug war using cinematography like that, interlaced with psychedlic effects and music.
Thump
#524 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/28 18:02:43
I'm sure it's been done, but yeah -- it is a neat idea =D
How Do We Know Moore Is Lying?
#525 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/06/28 19:55:40
His lips are moving.
I'll be here all week. Remember to tip your waitress.
Fahrenheit 9/11
#526 posted by Jago [81.197.206.67] on 2004/06/28 20:47:45
If Moore was to present "factual lies" about Bush, he would get sued into oblivion. He hasn´t been sued, thefore he is not lying.
Dweeb...
#527 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2004/06/28 21:55:37
3. Oh yeah, I knew there was another reason I don't like Michael Moore: he didn't have enough respect for Bradbury to ask him if he could name the movie after Bradbury's story.
Fahrenheit 451
http://www.raybradbury.com/books/f...
Err
#528 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/06/28 22:06:22
I didn't mean that Bradbury's book title was "Fahrenheit 9/11." Obviously that wouldn't have made sense when the book was published in 1953. But Moore's movie is clearly named after the book, and as I said, Moore didn't care enough to ask Bradbury if he could name his movie after Bradbury's story.
http://www.cnn.com/2004/SHOWBIZ/Mo...
Jago
#529 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/06/29 00:10:07
I'm not saying everything Moore says is a lie, I just couldn't resist.
Libel suits aren't so easily thrown around. This is a pretty good summary:
http://slate.msn.com/id/2102725/
You don't need to tell lies to propagandize though. A careful choice of what facts you want to present can be even more powerful (see Leni Riefenstahl), and there's no question that Moore is being selective. I saw an article listing a bunch of examples but can't find it now. That wouldn't bother me except somehow his film got labeled a documentary.
OMG...
#530 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2004/06/29 00:30:50
R.P.G. I just read that article. Thanks for the link! If the article is accurate then Ray Bradbury is a real dick.
Bradbury, who is a registered political independent, said he would rather avoid litigation and is "hoping to settle this as two gentlemen, if he'll shake hands with me and give me back my book and title."
Ray...get over it, you hack.
#531 posted by HeadThump [65.141.72.211] on 2004/06/29 01:11:12
Here is a fairly balanced article on the Farenheit 9/11. He makes some of the same points that I made earlier but obviously he can afford to go into greater legnth.
http://www.antiwar.com/justin/?art...
BTW, go see the movie. Whatever you think of Micheal Moore, and I am not what you may call a fan, just seeing Ashcroft being his nutball self is worth the ticket price.
Better yet, rent Waco: Rules of Engagement, a documentary with better research standards and presentation. If you are looking to get pissed off at your government, that is a mighty good place to start.
Mystic River
#532 posted by Blitz [24.218.135.18] on 2004/06/29 01:33:42
I just finished watching this and I'm kind of dissappointed. The acting was top notch though and I thought it was worthy of the accolades it recieved.
I thought the pace was too plodding and ultimately while the story was entertaining, I thought it didn't pack enough punch in terms of being deep enough or conveying some kind of message. I don't know whether this is Eastwood's fault or Lehane's. (I've never read the book)
The last 10 minutes seemed out of place and the ending as a whole was generally unsatisfying.
Bah
#533 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/29 01:34:25
I hope Moore's viewpoint is slanted as hell, it makes for better entertainment. It's just no fun when everyone is being "politically correct".
I Fealt Pretty Much The Same On That One,
#534 posted by HeadThump [65.141.72.211] on 2004/06/29 02:10:11
Mystic River's weak point was the script, but the directing and acting were on the mark.
Politically Correct Film.... Sucks...
#535 posted by JPL [192.91.75.29] on 2004/06/29 02:21:28
If non politically correct film will be banned out cinemas, it will remains only films.... without violence, sex, fights, blood, monsters, etc.. etc.. just Disney's films for children... A shame... sights....
Mystic River
#536 posted by H-Hour [24.20.212.99] on 2004/06/29 02:40:47
I really enjoyed it. I did feel like it was trying to milk every bit of emotion out of it that it could, but I also realized that each time it tried it managed to impact me emotionally. A bit much? Yeah. A powerful movie? Sure.
The Day After Tomorrow.
#537 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/06/29 05:27:31
Which in fact I saw yesterday i.e. the day after two days ago although one day before that it would have been the day after tomorrow but I didn't know I was going to see it yet.
I quite enjoyed it. A great spectacle, a frightening concept and a fair romp. Obviously it was an utterly shallow cheese-fest of embarrassing proportions and would been significantly better if any part that contained people had been cut out....apart from the dog begging for the sausage and the British chopper pilot shouting at his failing machine which were the only 3.5 seconds of convincing acting in the whole thing.
Clearly a truly great film could have been made out of the idea (i.e. if they'd actually bothered to try) and this wasn't it.
There were two aspects that interested me further though...
1. The initial tornado destruction in LA reminded me a bit of the 11/9 footage, and made me think that actually there has been a comparatively shocking city-based disaster recently....with a strong public/government reaction which a GOOD film would have learnt from to provide a much more convincing reaction on screen.
2. The instant freeze effect....I was watching this happen to the choppers and thinking "I know this from somewhere!". If anyone has read "The Chronoliths" by Robert Charles Wilson (a good, intelligent sci-fi book, so you should have), the book describes an instant freezing effect caused by the appearance of an object from the future....and the effect in TDAT is exactly how the book describes it. Which is nice and marginally improved the experience.
TDAT
#538 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/06/29 20:45:50
I didn't wanna go to that because outside a few choice scenes (in the trailer, at least) it looked like a finely polished turd. Now I like the old-skool Irwin Allen disaster flicks, but that's only because you get invited to this weird quasi-reality where Chuck Heston rubs shoulders with Richard Roundtree and Victoria Principal (va-VOOM!). Otherwise, it's usually preposterous, bombastic filmmaking that doesn't even make for popcorn science-fiction.
Victoria Has Nice Principals
#539 posted by VoreLord [144.131.203.10] on 2004/06/30 00:59:21
Spiderman 2
#540 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/01 05:18:47
Oh my!
Somebody finally got it right, this is how a comic book movie should be. Cool bad guy, cool fight scenes, nice pacing, tobey maguire born to play this character etc etc
Go watch it, way better than the first (which wasnt bad but the bad guy was piss poor).
Nitin
#541 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/07/05 22:35:01
I gotta gree -- normally Defoe kicks ass in my book, but he just didn't cut it as the Goblin. I'm much happier about having Doc Ock in the second one, for sure -- next up should be Patrick Stewart as The Vulture =D
DaFoe Is
#542 posted by . [68.251.201.231] on 2004/07/05 22:40:57
from Appleton here where I live. His father was my Gramma's doctor.
Biff
#543 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/06 05:21:49
there's hints that three will be Lizard and/or Hobgoblin.
As for Dafoe, I didnt find him that bad, it was just the horrible Power Rangers Costume and bad writing for his part.
Spiderman 2
#544 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/07/06 23:18:12
Oh, yes. Probably the best comic-based movie. Period. I was amazed at how effortlessly it swings from drama to camp, to complete schtick (Peter's back injury, for example), and back to high drama again. I was moved by the aftermath of the train, and by Aunt May's "hero speech". And McGuire, Dunst and Molina were all amazing, and spot-on the whole show. And don't get me started with John's Dykstra's effects. DAYUM. Make the Matrix movies look poor, IMO.
All in all, I'll get this one on DVD when it comes out -- and prolly the first one too.
Nitin
#545 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/07/06 23:19:59
Yeah, pretty sure it'll be either Hobgoblin or Green Goblin 2 (ehh), next flick =D
American Psycho 2
#546 posted by . [68.251.201.231] on 2004/07/07 01:40:34
Watched it because I had nothing else to do. Predictable at times, but then it swings around. Mila Kunis stars. I haven't seen the first AP, but if that was a more serious film - this certainly was, definitely intentional comical vibe going on here.
The Shat is in it too.
And I will probably be seeing Spiderman 2 soon.
OH Yeah
#547 posted by . [68.251.201.231] on 2004/07/07 01:41:10
American Psycho 2 basically sucked.
Biff
#548 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/07 05:47:17
yeah but they make go two villains so Lizard may make it since Kurt COnnors was introduced.
AP 2
#549 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/07/07 15:10:19
I haven't had the nerve to actually watch this yet, but i guess i should. I got the impression it's basically a brainless teen slasher movie banking on the name of the original.
Metl
#550 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/08 04:25:17
that would be very good assumption.
Gah, Just Can't Keep Up With Miike
#551 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/07/08 07:23:39
Trailer to Izo, his latest: http://www.b-bat.tv/izo/asx/traile... Be prepared -- it's not your tpyical sort of flick ;D
Also
#552 posted by Vigil [212.54.29.140] on 2004/07/08 14:38:11
Izo has Takeshi Kitano, another reason to see it.
Spider-Man 2 was impressive, Alfred Molina being my absolutely favorite part of it. He was simply perfect, easily surpassing Willem Dafoe. Then again, the Green Goblin wasn't brought to the screen nearly as well as Doc Ock. (Doc Oc?) Really liked the movie, though it felt like a summer blockbuster to me. Could've used more substance.
And I finally saw The Man Who Wasn't There. Reminded me a lot of Albert Camus's novel The Stranger (L'etranger). The lighting was fabulous, and Billy Bob Thornton was a pleasure to watch.
Spider-man2
#553 posted by PuLSaR [80.80.111.129] on 2004/07/08 16:49:10
watched it today, it's really close to be the ideal comics-movie for me. Dr. Octopus was great, he looked perfect.
Vigil
#554 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/08 18:37:45
what about Tony Shaloub as Riedenschnieder?
Mystic River
#555 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/09 23:26:27
pretty good, excellent acting.
direction was a bit flawed, some scenes at the start and especially near the end.
The content of the last 10 mins was interesting and I thought important to the film. But the execution was jarring, confusing and ultimately distracting.
I think this stems mainly from the entire last 10 mins being completely out of tone from the rest of the film coupled with not really getting the point across clearly.
still, well worth seeing.
Anyone Else Notice This?
#556 posted by Kinn [81.7.55.111] on 2004/07/11 06:30:21
http://www.empireonline.co.uk/site...
As far as B-list action stars go, I actually think The Rock is one of the better ones. He has a sort of camp, Arnie-esque charm about him, that could well be perfect for this film. Fingers crossed the film doesn't turn out to be a steaming pile, eh?
Hardcore!
#557 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/07/11 08:32:56
i think that'd rock(haw haw)! I agree about the comparison to arnie... the Scorpion King in particular is the nearest thing to an arnie film i've seen, and its fantastic if you take it for what it is, a tongue-in-cheek quip-a-thon.
This is clearly going to fall through like every other Doom film, but if it doesn't, it'd be a lot of fun i reckon.
Actually
#558 posted by Kinn [81.7.55.111] on 2004/07/11 08:52:37
I think this is the real deal - they've got the script finalised, they've got a director (can't remember who, but it's no-one you'd have heard of :P), and they're obviously in talks with Mr. Rock.
As long as they don't turn it into a WS Anderson- MTV-style-editing-guitar-riff bullshit fest, they might be able to make this work. Let's hope the studio execs realise the potential and invest a shitload of money into this.
Kinn
#559 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/11 09:42:04
in this day and age, MTV style editing is a given, especially for action films.
On a side note, I saw Spartan last night and dont really know what I think about it. FOr the first two thirds it's a very intriguing film that looks at being more than a standard spy thriller. Unfortuately the last third becomes just that and comes across as a wasted opportunity.
The Mamet dialogue is better than Heist but is still a bit distracting at times, this genre is probably not the best forum for his style of writing.
worth a see though.
Qs About Spiderman2
#560 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/07/11 12:45:39
1. I see a lot of praise about how good a comic-book movie it is. Is it also a good hero/action movie for someone who hasn't the slightest interest in comic books??
2. Assuming it is, does one need to have seen the first movie to appreciate the second??
P.S. "movie" = "film", duh americanisation >:(
As About Spiderman2
#561 posted by pjw [66.191.126.135] on 2004/07/11 14:14:05
1. Yes
2. No
I'm a long-time comic nerd, and while the movie isn't flawless by any means, I think it's the best "comic" movie I've seen, whether you're a knowledgable viewer or not.
The Non-Comic-Nerd Opinion
#562 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/07/11 23:10:10
1. yes
2. yes
It's hard to justify my answer on the second without going into spoilers. So let's just say that if you want to see the second you might as well see the first anyways. It's out on dvd iirc.
Shambler
#563 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/12 04:14:44
1 - yes
2- at least half of it. It's not as good but it's not exactly a waste of time either.
SAW
#564 posted by . [68.251.201.231] on 2004/07/13 05:08:41
Looking forward to this... looks fucked up
http://download.ifilm.com/qt/porta...
They Have..
#565 posted by pope [207.149.188.1] on 2004/07/14 17:29:59
2 trailers for SAW now btw
SAW
#566 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/07/14 18:46:12
I honestly don't know what to think about that movie.
Signs
#567 posted by . [68.251.201.231] on 2004/07/15 02:29:57
Just saw signs.. while the director did a good job playing on suspense and intrigue, I thought the plot was poorly written. I suppose it's worth a rent, but nothing more.
Signs
#568 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/15 05:58:48
blows dogs balls. I mean it's all good to ape Hitchcock, Shymalan seems to have suspense down pat, but like Phait said, what about combining it with a decent plot?
It seems as if the sixth sense was a fluke, as all his other work is below par despite being interesting in parts.
All You Need To Know About Signs
#569 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/07/15 08:59:08
http://maddox.xmission.com/signs.h...
Maddox got it right again
Rushmore
#570 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/18 08:04:40
saw this last night, pretty nifty film. a bit too self-consciously quirky in places but a fun film regardless.
oh yeah, did anyone catch Hellboy? What was that like, I'm thinking of getting the DVD?
There's
#571 posted by . [68.78.217.69] on 2004/07/18 08:41:01
some Hellboy reviews in this thread I believe, and/or GA. Haven't seen it myself, not terribly interested, but will probably end up seeing it.
Rushmore
#572 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.76] on 2004/07/18 13:23:49
I loved that movie. The Vietnam War reenactment with explosives done on a High School stage. Unforgettable.
Charlies ANgels
#573 posted by . [68.78.217.69] on 2004/07/18 15:52:39
Don't remember which one of the series, but came out in 2003.. Saw most of it.. fucking amazing action sequences and I really liked how it was directed and the humor. And the grrls.
Cameron Diaz Scares Me
#574 posted by Kinn [217.140.36.179] on 2004/07/18 16:20:11
as does any girl who has a mouth that's actually bigger than her face.
LOL
#575 posted by . [68.78.217.69] on 2004/07/18 16:48:09
I have this feeling she could portray Tori Amos if there ever was a movie about her.. something about the face, eyes, but that smile is wide.
Another interesting thing I read.. Jaime Foxx is portraying Ray Charles in a film.. I read a review of the pre-screening and the reviewer, at first had hesitations about Jaime as Ray, but said he was rather surprised. I'm not sure if it's going to be a theatrical release or on TV.. probably TV.
Headthump
#576 posted by nitinatwork [203.49.58.74] on 2004/07/19 00:17:06
yeah that was pretty cool.
"Please use your safety glasses and ear plugs if you feel it necessary."
Jerry Goldsmith -- 1929 -2004
#577 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/07/22 19:44:01
Film composer Jerry Goldsmith has died at the age of 75. He passed away overnight after struggling with cancer. Kick-starting a long and successful career in the early 1950s at CBS (Twilight Zone, anyone?), Goldsmith has since contributed to the horror genre in ways a more seasoned music nut can better explain than myself. Alien. Planet of the Apes. Gremlins. Poltergeist. Psycho II. Warlock. Deep Rising. The Haunting ('99). The list goes on. He won an Academy Award for The Omen in 1976 and is a five-time Emmy winner.
My all-time fave composer -- next to Zappa, of course. Recognize.
He Was A Fine Composer
#578 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/23 04:27:29
but I love Enrio Morricone's work the best.
Nitin
#579 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/07/23 05:57:43
I don't necessarily agree with you, but Morricone is one of my faves, as well. Meanwhile, on the SAW front, the official site is finally up -- and it's a trip: http://www.howfuckedup.net
The Obit Did Not List My Fav Of Goldsmith's
#580 posted by HeadThump [65.140.55.98] on 2004/07/23 11:10:57
Chinatown
The score was responseable for
A great bulk of its odd California Noir mood
Chinatown
#581 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/23 22:32:43
is one of my favorite flms ever. Class in each and every department.
My Fave
#582 posted by biff_debris [24.158.204.102] on 2004/07/24 19:29:03
will always be Planet of the Apes. The music when I first heard it was so alien, and yet perfectly suited to the movie. My first taste of post-modernism -- even though at the time, I had no idea what it was, just thought it was really really cool =D
Alien
#583 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/24 23:05:19
would have to be my personal favorite of Goldsmith.
The bit where they discover the big fossilised alien in his gun turret, the music in that scene is great.
I also saw the hunt for Red october yesterday and obviously I was seeing the wrong submarine movies before because this and Das Boot have completely changed my opinion of the submarine genre.
#584 posted by . [68.78.217.69] on 2004/07/25 00:35:09
"submarine genre" ?
That's a new one...
Revenge Of The Sith
#585 posted by Kinn [81.7.59.142] on 2004/07/25 06:17:34
It's official, biatches! In other news, Star Wars ROTS and has been rotting ever since 1983.
Return Of The King EE
#586 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/07/25 06:59:01
new scenes :
http://www.theonering.net/perl/new...
Coolness
#587 posted by Kinn [81.7.59.142] on 2004/07/25 13:11:46
Quite a bit has happened this weekend in Movie Geekdom. At Comic-Con, we got the EpIII title, and the first real look at RotK:EE, although I'm not sure I dig what I'm hearing about the cinematography in the Mouth of Sauron scene; I think we got our fill of Rotting Mouth Closeups in Smeagol's Gollumisation sequence, thank you very much.
Now I hear the Star Wars:OT DVDs have been leaked (ROTJ at least), confirming some truly horrific Lucasian Revisionism - Hayden Christensen's head pasted onto Sebastian Shaw's body? I think I'm gonna barf.
The Bourne Supremacy
#588 posted by Jago [81.197.206.67] on 2004/07/25 13:16:49
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt037218...
Has anyone seen it yet? How is it?
Bourne Supremacy
#589 posted by inertia [24.164.65.166] on 2004/07/25 16:20:20
I saw it last night.
The 5 of us got to the theater halfway into the previews, with nowhere to sit, so we ended up lying down on the floor right in front of the screen -- it was like real life fov 120! The movie was good, it continues fairly well from the original, but I found some of the character addition/deletions lacking much purpose and substance. However, Matt Damon is superb as ever in his role, and the action sequences are, as expected, really fucking cool.
Verdict: spend the money for the theater showing version
Bourne Etc.
#590 posted by Kinn [217.140.36.235] on 2004/07/25 16:32:16
I hope the fight scenes in this one are better than the first. The choppy, strobe-like editing style really didn't do anything for me.
Terminator 3 Star Cast As BloodRayne
#591 posted by . [68.78.217.69] on 2004/08/03 22:40:55
http://www.gamespot.com/news/2004/...
Spoilers
#592 posted by Vigil [212.54.27.146] on 2004/08/06 10:09:58
I hope the fight scenes in this one are better than the first. The choppy, strobe-like editing style really didn't do anything for me.
I really dug the fight scenes in the first one. Yes, they were really choppy, annoying, like from a music video, but they really drew me in. I was as stunned as the protagonist when he fought those two policemen.
AvP
#593 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/08/14 04:11:04
I went to see it hoping for an movie in the Alien style. It's really more of a Preditor movie though. If you saw it you would know exactly what I meant. So it's ok, but it's not going to redefine genres for you.
Donnie Darko Director's Cut
#594 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/15 05:19:27
just caught this last Friday, much preferred the original cut. The 20 mins of extra footage explains the time travel aspect more but hinders the pace and mood otherwise IMO.
Also saw hellboy and thought it was ok but the potential was there to be much much better.
BAH!
#595 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/08/15 13:32:30
Donnie Darko Director's Cut
just caught this last Friday
I want to see it, too. :(
So
#596 posted by NotoriousRay [216.48.10.50] on 2004/08/15 16:51:51
is AvP as shite as I've heard/read? Anyone seen it?
AvP
#597 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/08/15 20:49:33
What am I? Chopped liver?
AvP
#598 posted by Kinn [81.7.54.184] on 2004/08/16 04:53:52
I was vaguely considering seeing this, but then I heard they had a facehugger-pause-bullet-time-pan-r... shot. Which just about made me want to ram a rusty glave up P.W.S. Anderson's talentless, derivative arse.
Shit
#599 posted by Kinn [81.7.54.184] on 2004/08/16 04:55:34
that should be: facehugger-pause-bullet-time -pan-round-360-unpause shot
Facehugger-time
#600 posted by Kell [82.41.218.44] on 2004/08/16 10:01:07
You are kiding? o_0
Please god, say it ain't so...
/Kell weeps
Not Kidding
#601 posted by Kinn [81.7.54.85] on 2004/08/16 10:22:20
The film takes anything remotely cool from the two franchises, and flushes them down the crapper. But then again I wouldn't expect anything less from Paul "Wretched Shit" Anderson.
AvP
#602 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/16 10:22:39
if you go in expecting shit stacked high, you'll come out disappointed.
If you go in expecting anything else, you'll pull all your hair out and then proceed to pull the hair off anyone else in the vicinity.
Yes, it's that bad. And even in the hands of Paul W Anderson, it couldnt have been worse.
Blood The Last Vampire
#603 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/19 11:02:36
*very* short anime title.
Visually its bloody fantastic, I've never seen animation this good. But its all style, all of it. Luckily it runs for only about 45 mins but its worth a look for the eye candy anyway.
Also finally finished 24 season 2. Silly, preposterous stuff but after about a dozen episodes, it's really fun and interesting.
Season 1 was far more compelling though.
RE: AvP
#604 posted by Jago [81.197.206.67] on 2004/08/19 15:36:06
I've watched the movie yesterday and after reading up on it a bit, I can say this: If you live in the US, wait for the Director's Cut unrated version. The word on the street is that if you live in Europe, you will get to see the extended Director's Cut version in the theaters as well. The difference between the versions is about 20 minutes and is supposed to add a lot of good material.
Paul Anderson himself was furious when the studio informed him 3 weeks before the movie release date that they will be cutting the movie in the US to fit PG-13 guidelines, thus cutting out several important scenes altogether and ripping out a lot of gore.
That being said, I saw the "cut" version that is being shown in the US theaters and thought the movie was OK. I wasn't good, it wasn't bad, just... average. It had some really good moments (like the final battle) and some truly horrible ones (360 degree camera rotation around a flying facehugger a la Matrix). I will definately be getting the DVD version.
Jago
#605 posted by pushplay [129.128.29.124] on 2004/08/19 16:23:14
Good to know. It'll at least be worth a rent/dl then.
Nitin...
#606 posted by distrans [203.32.39.126] on 2004/08/19 21:32:33
...yes Blood was very classy. Have you caught a look at Voices of a Distant Star yet?
And, I should've pimped this earlier but anyways... today at 14:00 AEST myself and two collegues will be running a 2 hour radio show on Philosophy and Film on SubFM Melbourne. It's streaming on http://subfm.org so why not tune in and shoot through some insults.
Manchurian Candidate
#607 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/26 09:32:21
saw the original because I was sort of interested in seeing the remake when it's released here in Oz.
Liked what I saw, some very clever scenes and memorable set pieces but I didnt really get into it all that much.
Distrans
#608 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/26 09:33:10
I'll try and get a copy of voices of a distant star.
Unbreakable
#609 posted by . [68.78.219.56] on 2004/08/26 09:59:11
Interesting at first but then cheese. Always thought it was about guy-in-wheel-chair, and then when I started to watch it, Elijah getting some kind of strength breakthrough for his illness. But no.
Manchurian Candidate
#610 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/08/26 17:29:26
I saw this again recently, and it really is pretty entertaining. The only thing i really thought was weak was the frank sinatra/janet leigh relationship, which seemed tacked-on.
The remake is playing at a local cinema; i'm really curious to see how they updated it, considering the obvious parallels between the political situation then and the one now. It's by the same director who made that terrible remake of Charade, but he also directed Silence of the Lambs so maybe it'll be good.
Metl
#611 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/26 19:56:55
I thought that was one of the more interesting aspects. The conversation on the train (which is apparently word for word from the book) was so strange that IMHO it hints at janet leigh being frank's handler. I watched that scene twice and that's the only explanation I could come up with for the bizarre dialogue there.
Nitin:
#612 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/08/27 00:08:05
Interesting, i hadn't thought of it being any more than just the obligatory romantic interest plotline. I'd have to watch it again to see how your angle works.
Metl
#613 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/27 06:25:31
given how tight the script is, it just seems strange that the dialogue between those two (especially in the train scene, but also in the scene in the car later on) was so bizarre for no reason whatsoever.
Last Samurai
#614 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/29 04:28:25
I'd heard good things about this but apart from 1 or 2 decent fight scenes, IMHO this movie represents everything that's wrong with Hollywood when it tries to make a serious film.
Films Films Films
#615 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/08/29 05:55:30
bah I can't even begin to remember all the films i've seen recently, but some that spring to mind...
Eternal Sunshine yada yada:
Really liked this, I felt the central relationship was very convincing and well portrayed, the other two minor relationships (not spoiling anything) could have used a little more detail. Also the whole 'escape' process was great, but it didn't seem to have much depth as far that the plot goes, although it might improve with repeated viewings.
Bourne Identity/Supremacy
Bourne is the new Bond. I say this with authority because all recent Bond films are HORSESHIT. Actually the old ones suck pretty bad too if you ignore the hotties. Hmm, maybe bourne isnt the new bond then, as he's quite good. I hadn't seen either film until recently, and I found the first better than the second, but if you've seen the Bourne Identity, you'll probably want to see the sequel anyway... there are loads more books in the series I believe (from staring at a book jacket), and if the hand-to-hand fighting was a little better it'll make a nice little franchise.
Frida
Film about a mexican painter who gets her tits out a lot. Nice boobs. Film also features Dr. Octavius and some communists.
13 going on 30
I saw this on a plane so I have an excuse. I tried to take my mind off the movie by stabbing my balls with my fork, but unfortunately the fork was made of plastic so I only caused minor chaffage and had to go on watching. I'm tempted to go easy on this piece of work because it was clearly made by children with special needs, and sporting a cast of actors all recovering from addiction to prescription drugs. Seriously, 13 year old girls would come out of the theatre saying "dude, that was so fucking bad it gave me cancer", even if they went to catholic schools and didnt know words like that.
It appears to center around a girl who is 13, ugly, unpopular, untalented, ugly, and desperate to conform with popular kids and fit in. She then goes in a closet and wishes she was 30 and slightly manly looking, and VOILA she wakes up and she's Jenifer Garner.
Hilarity ensues as she acts like a 13 year old, in a 30 year old's body!! LOL!! She also has to work in her dream job of being the editor of a fictional fashion mag, called Ponce, or <g>Girth or something.
But conformity is bad, ok? So its time for some moral lessons. Seriously, I could take the lecturing from Lion-o of the thundercats, even He-Man, or Captain Planet, but this is a new low. We then get to see how her life would have been better if she didnt act like a shit her whole life. Wow, now being a dickhead pays off, eh? Better try it! I'm off to remove the landmines I hid outside the local retirement home.
Starbuck
#616 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/29 07:01:57
you could take the moral lessons from captain planet?? Dude you have high tolerance levels.
Hmmm
#617 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.200] on 2004/08/29 10:25:43
She then goes in a closet and wishes she was 30 and slightly manly looking, and VOILA she wakes up and she's Jenifer Garner.
So that explains her attractive qualities. Grrrowwllll.
Seriously, your reviews should come with a tag line warning that they may cause in pants shittage from laughing so hard (I just tinkled myself a little).
Give Us Spoilage...
#618 posted by Tron [203.219.188.151] on 2004/08/29 13:09:44
I was tempted to go see that movie only because Jennifer Garner looks insanely cute in all the trailers for it, but was put off by the fact that the audience would be full of teeny boppers.
How does the movie end, does she return to being 13 ala Tom Hanks in Big?
No
#619 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/08/29 13:20:41
She makes another giant leap forward in age and becomes an 87-year-old who recounts the tale of how her true love Jack Dawson died when the Titanic sank at sea.
Hahahah Starbuck
#620 posted by Blitz [24.218.135.18] on 2004/08/29 15:36:19
I wish to subscribe to your newsletter, sir.
Tron
#621 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/08/29 21:51:02
you could just watch alias.
Boo
#622 posted by Blitz [24.218.135.18] on 2004/08/30 05:55:02
I saw 'I Shot Andy Warhol' tonight. It was pretty good -- I thought Lily Taylor was really good in it. It wasn't innovative in too many ways, but it told a good story about the life of a crazed woman and the events leading up to one of 20th century art's biggest names being shot. Not bad if you have an hour and a half to kill.
Tron
#623 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/08/30 10:08:48
massive spoilage!
she goes back to 13 again (going back in time) so she can live her life differently this time, and then they show you the happy ending, that she marries her childhood friend (mark?) when she grows up.
Blitz:
#624 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/08/30 15:34:01
i saw that recently, too. Good performance by the main actress, but overall i didn't find the story or the themes very enlightening.
Warhol SHot
#625 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/08/30 20:50:06
Personally, I found the postscript to be rather enlightening.
Starbuck...
#626 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2004/08/30 23:30:45
...I sent your review through to my sister (who is a big JG fan) and now she has stopped talking to me.
Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay for Starbuck :)
*clink*
#627 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/08/31 00:37:41
lol, I've broken up marriages before, but never the eternal beautiful bond only a brother and sister have! i'll drink to that :))
Aeon Flux
#628 posted by . [68.78.219.54] on 2004/08/31 20:04:07
Charlize Theron
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt040202...
And...
#629 posted by distrans [203.32.39.126] on 2004/08/31 21:45:45
...this from my sister in law
Dom (my niece [ed]) had day off school yesterday and we trotted off to local cinema with friend in tow to watch Suddenly 30. Thank God it was not showing and having read the review you sent "what a lucky escape", especially as there wouldn't of been one single ball to stab with fork between us!
Starbuck, your fan base grows...
Aeon Flux == Charlize Theron
#630 posted by distrans [203.32.39.126] on 2004/08/31 21:47:00
Worst casting ever!
Distrans
#631 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/08/31 21:59:57
if you don't have any balls or forks, similar discomfort can be had be forcing hot popcorn into your eye-sockets!
Aeon Flux
#632 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/08/31 22:37:12
dammit, I predicted over a year ago they'd make a movie of her. Sure to be full of bullet-ti...uh, aeon-time? Bullet-flux?
Somehow, I doubt it will be as eccentric as the pseudo-anime.
The Horror, The Horror
#633 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/01 05:45:19
9 disc Matrix boxset
http://www.ezydvd.com.au/item.zml/...
Right down the bottom of the page under Special Features : a new cut of Matrix Reloaded with 1 hour extra footage.
If anything it needs trimming, not more footage.
Predator
#634 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/01 05:50:11
I hadnt seen this in a long time and was surprised at how cheesy it now comes across as. Sure, it's still suspenseful and fun but some of the scenes (the invasion of the rebel base especially) just seem ludicrous.
And the marines seem like poor imitations of Hudson, Vasquez and co (yeah I know predator was made earlier). The creature design, however, is still fantastic.
But It Stars
#635 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/09/01 20:20:15
2 governors! 2!! and apollo creed!
Carl Weathers
#636 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/09/01 20:53:40
should run for office.
Equilibrium
#637 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/09/01 20:59:15
Just saw it. Sort of a cross between Fahrenheit 451 and The Matrix. I think the main problem with it is that for a movie whose ostensive point is that emotions are important and complex and make us human, emotion comes too cheaply in the film itself -- how are you supposed to feel about this or that plot point? Don't worry, the movie will tell you, so you won't have to deal with the complexity or contradiction of emotions that the movie claims to celebrate.
However, nice pacing, good action, plot twists and stuff. I don't regret watching it.
Oh,
#638 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/09/01 21:01:27
and the studio obviously made them add a few extra scenes to explain it to the imagined stupid audience; for example the intro footage where it talks about war and stuff. The opening would have been much stronger if they started you off with the police raid.
Predator
#639 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.190] on 2004/09/01 21:23:33
The movie that made me fall in love with the chaingun
And =librium,
#640 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.190] on 2004/09/01 21:27:52
I loved the cinematography, a rich tapestry of grey and light saturation.
Equil-etc
#641 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/09/01 21:41:17
Just the mention of the movie makes me want to watch it again just to see that guy surf the door and gunfu a room full of people.
HeadThump...
#642 posted by JPL [192.91.75.29] on 2004/09/02 02:27:02
.. Terminator II also have a big chaingun "cleaning" sequence, which is at least as good as the one in Predator... If you love chaingun, you're gonna be pleased...:)
JPL
#643 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.175] on 2004/09/02 03:00:42
Yes it is -- though I didn't care for the scene where he gives all the cops leg wounds -- would they have shown him the same curtesy? Besides that, a great action flick.
HeadThump...
#644 posted by JPL [192.91.75.29] on 2004/09/02 03:21:10
In the same way, Rambo 2 have also its heavy chaingun cleaning sequence... if you really like this.... ;)
I've Never Seen Rambo 2
#645 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.216] on 2004/09/02 03:49:36
but I liked the first one, as a sensitive portrait of a tormented Vietnam War Vet who finds a means of coping with his psychological traumas by wasting a bunch of bastards who get in his way.
Kind of like A Razor's Edge, except with guns.
Inner Peace through superior fire power.
HeadThump
#646 posted by JPL [192.91.75.29] on 2004/09/02 04:33:44
Shortly Rambo 2 is the come back to Vietnam of the hero of the first episode... and this time he have to take photos of US prisonners keept in Viet jail for many years, just to have proof for UN and diplomacy... But, Rambo changes the plan: he choose to save the prisonners. And there are memorable fights with chaingun, many explosions, many kills, etc.. etc.. A basic "Stallone movie" in fact...
Equilibrium
#647 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/02 06:09:30
favorite action scene has to be the one after he's attacked for keeping the dog. I hadnt heard much about gun-kata etc when I watched it, so I was amazed at that sequence. th eone that pushplay mentions was pretty cool too.
Actually all of them were good, even the direct lobby scene ripped from the Matrix. And whilst the movie was passable, Bale does a better job being Keanu than Keanu himself.
The T2 chaingun scene beats the predator one anyday.
Nitin...
#648 posted by JPL [192.91.75.29] on 2004/09/02 08:19:03
The T2 chaingun scene beats the predator one anyday.
I agree with that point of view: Predator chaingun sequence is just a "deforestation" sequence, whereas T2 chaingun sequence has many much more "target-hits"...
But
#649 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/09/02 09:27:48
the T2 scene is lame in meaning; it's firstly to show that Ahnuld is really a 'good guy' ( *wretch* ) and secondly a gratuitous excuse for cameron to blow shit up.
The scene in predator when Blaine gets killed by the pred and his pal Mac picks up the minigun and lets rip is awesome because it demonstrates the extensive firepower the marines are packing...and its total impotence against the pred.
"no blood, no bodies...we hit nothing"
Also: metl, there has never been a better time to have had a chaingun icon. I hope you're taking notes.
Kell
#650 posted by JPL [192.91.75.29] on 2004/09/02 09:43:31
Yes, you are right, but the movie context is really different: Predator is more or less a "Jungle Thriller" with an invisible ennemy, that explain the impotence of marines' fire power... And T2 is an action movie where explosions are "free distributed" to enjoy peoples, and it demonstrates the Terminator's power against common human being... That's the main difference between the 2 movies... even if "Schwarzy" wins at the end ... ;)
I Wanted To Write The Entire Post Here Just To Annoy All Of You, But I
#651 posted by Vigil [212.54.29.156] on 2004/09/04 17:10:56
as there wouldn't of been one
wouldn't of
distrans, I hate your family.
Oh, I also saw King Arthur and The Chronicles of Riddick a few weeks ago.
King Arthur Clive Owen as Arthur was crap. Where was the inspiring, charismatic king? Keira Knightley was cute/beautiful/scary. All in all, even the fight scenes were too mediocre. The only real highlights were Bors and Dagonet (Ray Winstone and Ray Stevenson).
The Chronicles of Riddick Ummm, what? Unfortunately (or not so) I missed the first 20 minutes of this, but was vaguely entertained by the rest. Can't really explain the feeling. Sure, it was crap, but was it in a good way, or a bad way? Makes me want to see more sci-fi in any case.
Not to mention Vares, a certain good Finnish movie none of you will probably ever see. Your loss.
More Flicks
#652 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/04 23:59:08
Finally got around to seeing two that I'd wanted to see for a while, both ended up being quite enjoyable without being anything spectacular.
Halloween - killer score and nice tension. One of the rare enjoyable slasher movies.
a fish called wanda - not as funny as I'd heard but a lot funnier than most comedies. We need more british comedies.
Vigil
#653 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/05 00:00:47
is vares based on the book(s)?
Hero
#654 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.46.1] on 2004/09/05 00:34:32
Wow. Not exactly what I was expecting, but managed to surpass Crouching Tiger imo. Everything is good imo (I saw it in Mandarin with english subtitles) from the acting, the action scenes, story, etc. Woot.
Hero
#655 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/05 01:43:06
I just got it on friday, hoping to watch it soon, just waiting till I'm home alone so I can pump up the sound.
Hero
#656 posted by metlslime [206.169.93.48] on 2004/09/05 06:05:23
good movie; but managed to surpass CTHD? I don't think so, but it depends on your criteria i suppose.
No regrets watching it; there were good fights, a nice story (particularly the way the first half unfolded,) and visually it was very stylish.
I Personally
#657 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/05 06:34:29
thought CTHD was very overrated. A good movie it sure was, but nothing more than that.
The fight scene between zhang ziyi and michelle yeoh is another story.
#658 posted by Vigil [212.54.22.152] on 2004/09/05 09:18:32
is vares based on the books?
Yup. Can't remember which book right now. Might've been a hybrid of several books. Haven't read any myself, but after seeing the movie I might try one of them.
Hero...
#659 posted by necros [66.185.84.208] on 2004/09/05 15:25:32
saw it yesterday. excellent, and certainly up there with cthd.
Hero
#660 posted by cyBeAr [213.65.179.30] on 2004/09/06 11:48:43
When I watched I thought it wasn't too interesting apart from the beautifull visuals.
I Polled My Family...
#661 posted by distrans [203.20.72.1] on 2004/09/06 21:23:10
...95% said they loved Vigil, especially for that level where you have to defend the tomb of your friend.
5% said... Who?
Spellbound
#662 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/07 07:38:59
this was almost a very fine film, but as it is it's fairly dodgy. The script is too weak and some of the dialogue about psychoanalysis is cringeworthy, even for a movie this old.
But, there's no denying the classy direction that's on display here. Keeps you watching despite all the flaws.
That Level Was Made By
#663 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/09/07 17:07:21
wright bagwell, and it was CALLED Vigil, not actually made by Vigil the mapper.
#664 posted by distrans [203.32.39.126] on 2004/09/07 22:59:58
Joss Whedon Directing Xmen3?
#665 posted by NotoriousRay [68.48.66.194] on 2004/09/08 17:58:33
http://www.chud.com/news/sept04/se...
Being both a comic book and buffy geek, I for one, am exited for this. (nevermind the fact most of whedons angel episodes suck ass). At least so far, his comic run has been pretty damn good.
<-- Throwing Cards
#666 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/09/08 18:10:01
Of course, there's currently no script, and to the best of my knowledge no major talent has actually signed for the movie (and we know Halle Berry has little interest in returning unless she's in the spotlight).
Then piss off, Halle, no one likes you. He could be a good director i think. Oh, and GAMBIT GAMBIT GAMBIT GAMBIT GAMBIT GAMBIT GAMBIT FUCKING GAMBIT GAMBIT GODDAMN GAMBIT BASTARDS GAMBIT please thanks.
Yes
#667 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/08 18:27:42
Gambit.
And
#668 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/08 18:28:00
I was never a fan of Beast persay, but that might be interesting.
#669 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/08 22:54:43
I like Halle Berry. I'd like to see Psylocke. I didn't see X2 so I don't know if she was in there or not -_-
X-Who?
#670 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/09/08 23:01:44
And when are they going to make a Lobo movie?
#671 posted by Scampie [66.231.198.188] on 2004/09/08 23:16:30
and while we're at the whole comic movies thing, just saw this interesting bit...
http://www.darkhorizons.com/news04...
Finally, Comic Book Resources reports that "Allegedly, DC's lord of the seas "Aquaman" is getting the cinematic treatment, courtesy of producers Alan and Peter Riche and writer Ben Grant. They want this Aquaman to be a goofy screwball comedy. Their thought was, 'since he's such a stupid character let's play that up.'" He then warned me that despite his source's reliability, this is still just a rumor for now, so caveat emptor and what not".
Yet another comic -> movie destined to suck :\
oh, as for Halle Barry... she's not good looking, she has no acting skill, and really is only famous becuase she cried getting some token award and showed her tits in a few films. I'll be glad to see her gone for any film I may be interested in.
Scampie
#672 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/09 00:19:29
I can prove you wrong with 2 words: Cat and Woman. Instant gold.
#673 posted by Scampie [66.231.198.188] on 2004/09/09 00:24:59
...
so you're attempting a rebuttal on the grounds that she's such a shitty actor she has to play in a cheesy crapfest where she fully relies on her supposed looks? I guess she can pass for hot while she wears a mask and not much else.
#674 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/09/09 06:09:22
I guess she can pass for hot while she wears a mask and not much else.
she still looked ugly to me :)
Strabuck
#675 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/09/09 06:13:30
Are you gay, or blind, or both ?? Even if she looks ugly in her ridiculous costume, it remains she had a wonderful bunny, and big tits woawwhat a girl.. That's enough to see the film.. grrrrr... and furthermore if someone tells me that she's naked in the film: I'll buy it :P...
Scampie
#676 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/09 06:25:17
I thought she was good in Monster's ball, probably not oscar worthy but enough to show acting ability.
Well, I'm Just A Modest Blind Gay Man
#677 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/09/09 07:26:36
but going by feel alone she doesnt do it for me, honey. But masks and leather? Fabulous, I say!
Starbuck
#678 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/09/09 07:36:08
With masks and leather: it will turn into a sado-maso sex contest.. he he he ...
That Sounds Like A Contest
#679 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/09/09 07:44:13
where everybody loses :(
Perhaps The..
#680 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/09/09 07:48:21
.... only winner will be the one who have the mask and leather.. :P...
In fact, I really don't know, because I don't practice this kind of ... errr could we say: "sport"... o_O
Starbuck
#681 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/09 08:49:44
LOL
Scampie:
#682 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/09 13:25:12
Yes.
Eh
#683 posted by NotoriousRay [68.48.66.194] on 2004/09/09 19:53:52
Yet another comic -> movie destined to suck :\
What (recent) movies like this are you referring to? I guess you mean Catwoman, although it doesn't really count as its not even selina kyle and has fuck all to do with the batman/catwoman ethos. Punisher? It was OK, but I wouldn't say it sucked.
Wait for the next batman movie. My hopes on that being good are fading by the minute. :(
Ray
#684 posted by nitin [203.134.49.235] on 2004/09/09 22:26:55
why? there's too much talent behind batman begins for it to suck. But I guess stranger things have happened.
And I read somewhere that Jack BLack was playing Aquaman.
Hmm
#685 posted by nonentity [213.208.100.240] on 2004/09/09 22:30:23
I thought the footage/shots of the new Batman looked really nice actually. Not that they provide a lot to go on, but the new batmobile is buff.
Sky Captain
#686 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/10 01:35:36
Looks like pretentious, over-done-dreamy-effect action crap. And too many stars. But y'never know, either way I don't really have high hopes for it.
You Know,
#687 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.98] on 2004/09/10 01:56:42
I couldn't resist Angeline Jolie if I wanted too. That outfit makes it an even more difficult task.
confusing plot, stupid dialog, robotic acting, pretentious cinematagraphy, all those I give a big so what. For the cost of mere ticket, I get a reason to live!
Cinematography
#688 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/10 02:08:19
Just the word I was looking for.
#689 posted by Blitz [24.218.84.231] on 2004/09/10 02:40:41
Just look at the fucking name of the movie!!
It sounds like a fake movie from the Simpsons starring Troy McClure as the Sky Captain.
#690 posted by Fat Controller [222.152.134.63] on 2004/09/10 03:50:10
And when are they going to make a Lobo movie?
Movie? Why haven't they made a Lobo game yet? Space motorbikes, gratuitous violence, and a character that looks like Rob Zombie on steroids: it's a franchise just begging to pander to the power fantasies of the pimple-eyed.
Fatty
#691 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/09/10 09:48:27
BITE ME, FANBOY!!
Doom 3 New Director
#692 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/10 23:17:38
"Universal Pictures has hired Polish director Andrzej Bartkowiak ("Cradle 2 the Grave") in a pay-or-play pact to helm the studio's upcoming vidgame adaptation, "Doom." He replaces the film's original director, Enda McCallion, who the studio said is bowing out due to personal reasons...
A former cinematographer on pics like "Lethal Weapon 4" and "Thirteen Days," Bartkowiak's recent helming credits include "Exit Wounds" and "Romeo Must Die."
URL
#693 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/10 23:17:50
http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=st...
#694 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/10 23:31:45
I saw Lethal Weapon 4, but none of the others, so I can't say if I'm excited or not. I hope they don't seriously screw it up like Resident Evil though.
On a slightly different-but-related topic, anyone have any info on the Silent Hill movie? I heard the Resident Evil director was doing that movie too, which really worries me.
Uhhh...
#695 posted by Kinn [81.155.131.196] on 2004/09/11 06:41:45
Well, looking at Bartkowiak's directing credits, he just sounds like another alumni from the Paul W S Anderson School of Shit Action Films. I think he majored in "101 ways to fuck up an action scene by trying to make it look like a bad parody of The Matrix".
Can't say I'm totally shocked; it's not as if film studios hold video games in very high regard.
#696 posted by Vigil [62.248.249.66] on 2004/09/11 10:44:15
After seeing Exit Wounds, Romeo Must die and Cradle 2 the Grave, I wish the process seen in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind was possible.
In other news, everyone's favorite level (that being me) just recently (that being yesterday) saw that one movie called I, Robot, and for some strange reason enjoyed it quite a lot.
Was able to turn my brain off, and it was indeed rather nice. The action was good, the sets were nice, and there was nothing too stupid. The artsy person inside me wished that the movie had concentrated more on Sonny. Would've been more like Asimov's short stories. Then again, I was expecting an action movie, and I got what I wished for.
And the three laws are perfect? Ummm, say again?
Hero
#697 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/12 04:50:34
it's really just a bunch of beautiful images stuck together, but when they look this good, they hold your attention. Well worth watching.
Triplets Of Belleville
#698 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/13 10:22:51
sheer brilliance.
Mesmerising stuff from start to finish, the animation's a sight to behold and the film is like a cross between a Tim Burton work and a Hayao Miyazaki film.
I Remember The Tune From ToB
#699 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.211] on 2004/09/13 12:17:32
at the Oscars. All of the other nominated tunes bored me pissless; it at least had a beat and some umph. The worst set of music they have had since Celine Dion won it for the Titanic theme and a big let down from the previous year when Dylan won for the Wonderboys. Brrrr
Anyway. I had that freakin ToB tune and accompanying visuals stuck in my head for a week after that. I'm sure if I watch the movie it would get stuck there again.
Please tell me the movie is worth enduring that.
Belleville
#700 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/13 13:54:53
was pretty good. Mostly lighthearted and comedic, but became abruptly serious when the mobster killed one of the bicyclists, which completely took me out of the movie. Everything else went well together except that one scene imo. Plus there were animated boobies.
ToB
#701 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/09/13 15:59:07
Beautiful to look at, but just wasn't as clever and consistent in its writing as it thought it was. As a result the visuals and the main theme were the only things keeping me going.
Triplets..
#702 posted by pope [207.149.188.1] on 2004/09/13 21:48:35
Seen it a couple times actually...
a treat to watch, but as a consistent storyline yawn...more focus on the travels of the triplets themselves and less on the biker would of made for a more interesting watch.
That is not to say there weren't some great parts. I not feel bad recommending it to be watched. Just don't go buy the DVD
Zwiffle
#703 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/14 05:46:57
yeah, I was a bit surprised at that moment too. I was waiting for them to show that the goon fired the shot at something else.
It's definitely uneven, but even when it was dawdling, I found it strangely entertaining and enjoyable.
Resident Evil: Apocalypse
#704 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/09/15 16:13:36
Had a few good moments, but other than that it was pretty bad. Noticably worse than the 1st installment (AND they are making a 3rd).
Noticeable Worse Than The 1st Installment
#705 posted by nitin [203.134.49.235] on 2004/09/15 19:55:27
is that even possible?
Yes
#706 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/09/15 21:05:25
I was one of those who had actually thought the first one was quite decent.
I Have The Same Problem
#707 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.245] on 2004/09/15 23:57:14
with Jovovich that I have with Jolie,
I can't be objective about a movie when she is on the screen.
#708 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/16 00:28:27
Jovovich is not that hot. Same with Jolie. Yeah, she has some sexy lips, but... well... she's not hot.
Bought
#709 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/16 00:37:20
"Old School" DVD today. I now own an impressive 3 (three) DVD's. (aforementioned, Vanilla Sky & One Hour Photo).
Gonna checkout Red Dragon in a bit. Haven't seen any new releases yet, not really interested to be honest. Spiderman 2, Collateral and Paparazzi I'd like to see.
Jolie...
#710 posted by pope [207.149.188.1] on 2004/09/16 01:17:36
...looks like somebodys grandma... I know she's not old, but I can't help but see how she'll apear when she gets all wrinkled...
I hope to watch Shaun of the Dead tonight...
Jovovich Is Not That Hot.
#711 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.245] on 2004/09/16 02:05:29
Yeap. That is why she gets roles in movies, although she hasn't demonstrated much in the way of acting abilaty, and that is why she is Revlon's cover girl because she is so unatractive.
okay, smarty pants, Headthump, explain Demi Moore's success?
er . . . Damnit! Zwiffle, you when this time . . .
Blackpope
#712 posted by nitin [203.134.49.235] on 2004/09/16 02:09:48
that's one very good looking grandma you know.
Win
#713 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.245] on 2004/09/16 02:10:05
meh and those blasted hononyms .
GranMa ???
#714 posted by JPL [192.91.75.30] on 2004/09/16 02:39:38
If my GranMa would dress like Angelina Jolie... sure I fall in love with her... she was pretty good in her youth !!
Doom Movie
#715 posted by Kinn [217.43.101.127] on 2004/09/16 08:17:10
I have to admit to being more than a little curious about the progress of this film.
Anyway, latest news is the casting of Karl Urban as (I presume) the lead marine guy.
http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?t...
A better choice than The Rock, I'll admit. Also he made a pretty decent Eomer in LotR. (Now if only they'd change that fucking director...)
#716 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/16 08:17:47
Anyone who is willing to show her tits in movies can be a success in hollywood. and also, queen latifah has done commercials for revlon. Or one of those cosmetics thingies anyway.
Jolie
#717 posted by Kinn [217.43.101.127] on 2004/09/16 08:21:02
They're not even *her* tits either. (I was devastated when I found that out, although I'll admit they're pretty realistic-looking falsies).
Queen Latifah
#718 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.63] on 2004/09/16 11:56:32
appearing was the result of demographics and marketing. Hot European babes like Milla have no built in demographic appeal to the buyers of Revlon products. The only reason she is their cover girl is because she is hot.
As my previous post suggest, I can understand that a certain type of woman and feminity does not appeal to everyman. Some guys I know use to go apeshit over Demi Moore, and I never understood that; not only can't she act, she can't even move her facial muscles to express human emotion.
Anyway, if Milla doesn't appeal, nor does Angeline or Queen, just who does?
Are you being skeptical for the sake of skepticism?
That Hot Asian School Girl
#719 posted by . [68.77.197.145] on 2004/09/16 19:57:11
In Kill Bill
RE: That Hot Asian School Girl
#720 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/09/16 20:59:21
...is actually Japanese (both the movie character and the actual actress).
Phait
#721 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.47] on 2004/09/16 21:27:08
excellent taste -- kinda does it for me too
Uma looked better than ever as well
Jago,
Asia = {China, Indochina, Siberia, Japan, etc.}
Like Saying Britons Are Not European
#722 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.47] on 2004/09/16 21:27:53
;)
My Top 3 Hot Asian Chicks
#723 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/16 22:30:24
1. Michelle Yeoh
2. Fann Wong
3. Zhang Ziyi
Say what you want, Michelle Yeoh is hot.
How Can Gong Li Not Be In That List?
#724 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/09/17 01:28:40
Gong Li Via Google
#725 posted by underworldfan [128.195.64.98] on 2004/09/17 02:15:11
http://www.operagloves.com/Modern/...
yes i am with metslime.
#726 posted by underworldfan [128.195.64.98] on 2004/09/17 02:15:54
wont let me link it :/
Ya...
#727 posted by distrans [144.134.131.89] on 2004/09/17 07:56:00
...Gong Li is spesh, but I can't go past Lucy Liu's freckles...tres bon...and now we need a freckle icon.
.
Well
#728 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.84.168] on 2004/09/17 09:22:00
Gong Li isn't on the list because it's a top *3*, not a top 4. And, since there's already 3 on that list, that doesn't leave any room for Gong. If I had a top 4, she still probably wouldn't be on it, but maybe in a top 6.
She Isnt An Actress
#729 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.215] on 2004/09/17 12:26:48
But there is a CNN anchor named Betty Nguyen who is so divinely pretty I get light headed when she is on air.
Hmm...
#730 posted by mwh [82.70.6.94] on 2004/09/19 18:30:13
you'd never guess that most mappers are male...
Errr...
#731 posted by JPL [192.91.75.29] on 2004/09/20 02:44:40
I think Ming Na could be a part of your top 5 asian actress...
http://pro.corbis.com/creative/cro...
I like this kind of "doctor" .. grrrr...
More Stuff I Saw
#732 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/21 05:00:08
dirty pretty things - really good, the lead actor was excellent. Audrey Tatou had a nice change from her Amelie role too.
dial m for murder - more class from hitchcock, easily one of his better films. Great script.
the producers - very clever film and script. I dont really like Mel Brooks' slapstick humour generally but this was different to his usual stuff, but still had that manic energy that seems to be prevalent in all his films. Highlight was easily the castingof the hippie as Hitler.
Film Thoughts Please...
#733 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/09/21 10:17:27
Chronicles of Riddick - any good??
Hellboy - any good??
Would like some feedback please (not based around how faithful they are to comics/prequels etc etc - just how they are in their own right) - more about what they're like rather than just "s4wk / r4wk".
Also, another other sci-fi / thriller / weird films around or coming out this autumn?? Can quite happily watch trashy sci-fi in it's own right but prefer other films to have a bit more bite (not into arty abstract weirdness though).
Chronicles Of Riddick
#734 posted by nb [203.109.254.50] on 2004/09/21 12:09:48
Trashy sci-fi; nothing at all like Pitch Black. Vin Diesel co-produces; the result is about what you'd expect.
Chronicles...
#735 posted by necros [142.150.5.189] on 2004/09/21 13:33:54
i thought it was alright. good music, and cool effects... ending was strange and a bit awkward. just don't go in expecting pitch black 2.
Shambler
#736 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/09/21 13:54:20
I don't really know about new releases, but Dark City is always a good bet. And of course the original Pitch Black if you haven't seen it.
...
Um, this was actually going to be a very big list, but I don't really have anything else to add.
Well, Since We're Throwing Out Older Films Too...
#737 posted by pjw [63.236.226.222] on 2004/09/21 14:04:59
I'll second the Dark City vote, and add a few faves from the sci-fi/thriller/weird camp:
Angel Heart
Brotherhood of the Wolf
The City of Lost Children
Harvey
The Man Who Would Be King
Sorcerer
The Stunt Man
True Romance
Wild at Heart
Forget Older Films For My Benefit.
#738 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/09/21 14:50:54
I'm interested in the cinema shizznaz at present.
Shambler:
#739 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/09/21 14:54:04
Dark City.
#740 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.59.96] on 2004/09/21 15:26:33
Dark City was smelly, don't watch it.
Shambler
#741 posted by nitin [203.134.49.235] on 2004/09/21 20:31:06
riddick is crap, some of the design work is good but the movie is crap.
Hellboy is ok, decent effects and so forth but it's a bit too long and there's nothing truly spectacular in it.
Good current stuff in line with what you asked for :
donnie darko (I think the director's cut, albeit an inferior version, is playing at cinemas around the world)
Spartan's not bad for a thriller.
Collateral is also pretty good for a thriller.
Also, I havent seen it but Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow looks like an interstingly styled pulp sci-fi film.
'bout Sky Captain
#742 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.185] on 2004/09/21 21:11:03
a direct qote from my brother
' so, so, so, bad. Cutesy crap made me wanna gash my eyes out.'
I haven't seen it.
'bout Sky Captain
#743 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.185] on 2004/09/21 21:11:09
a direct quote from my brother
' so, so, so, bad. Cutesy crap made me wanna gash my eyes out.'
I haven't seen it.
I Dunno
#744 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/09/21 21:25:30
When Shambler said "not into arty abstract weirdness though", I pretty much assumed that Donnie Darko would be out. Plus the sci-fi themes aren't as much in the foreground of the film as other sci-fi films.
Rpg
#745 posted by nitin [203.134.49.235] on 2004/09/21 21:43:35
they are in the director's cut (to the detriment IMHO but that's another issue).
Aye
#746 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/09/22 06:29:24
Donnie Darko sounds fine actually, but I thought it was long gone to DVD.
Funnily enough the Sky Captain thing looked pretty entertaining - the style of it looked cool, and it makes no pretence to have an ounce of sense to it.
Will consider Collateral then..,
Shambler
#747 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/09/22 06:33:59
the original cut of Donnie has been on DVD for ages. However, a new director's cut (with about 25 mins extra footage) is showing in many cinemas around the world.
Hmm
#748 posted by nonentity [217.41.19.241] on 2004/09/22 10:00:49
Like Saying Britons Are Not European
Try asking my average countryman about it and they'll deny it vehemently.
Xenophobic bastards the lot of them.
Sky Captain
#749 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/09/23 00:54:09
It has some excellent moments. Style++ for about 3/4 of the movie. Towards the end it starts to decohere, but all in all it's worth the price of admission.
Pushplay
#750 posted by nitin [203.134.49.235] on 2004/09/23 00:59:18
how noticeable is the cg? I hate obvious cg (hello Matrix sequels), especially when it's used in large parts as it is here.
The Salton Sea
#751 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/09/24 22:11:30
Predictable. Nothing special in the writing. There is a small bit to consider after you're through watching, but as I said it's not anything special. Visual style is kinda nice and dark.
Oh, and it had the phone ringing sound from The Matrix.
I Liked
#752 posted by pope [207.216.236.96] on 2004/09/25 16:15:15
the salton sea, yeah it wasn't AMAZING, i didn't rush out and buy the dvd, but I didn't walk out of the theatre feeling ripped off.
It had some giggles, some sad, some bad, and some yummy val kilmer.
Blackpope
#753 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/09/26 00:54:09
Well since I am neither A) a homosexual male, nor B) a heterosexual female, I didn't find Val Kilmer all that hot. The sad was just cliche stuff (can you say "The Crow"?). The giggles were... okay, they were giggles.
As I said, it had a decent style in the visuals, but everything else was either mediocer or cliche.
Oh, and I didn't feel ripped off. But the movie just wasn't that great.
Nitin
#754 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/09/26 19:00:48
It holds up pretty well. The fact that the whole thing is done in one style is what makes it all work. The only time I thought the cg was off was for the rain. Rain is hard.
Nitin
#755 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/09/27 02:28:04
http://www.apple.com/trailers/para...
Watch the 'exclusive clip', that probably gives as good an indication of the CG as you'll get.
Shaun Of The Dead
#756 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.141] on 2004/09/28 12:01:47
I love a good zombie movie. For some reason hordes of slow witted numbsculls appeals to me. Shaun of the Dead isn't an esception. There are some hilarious moments, but they don't take you out of the movie. It manages to be funny and still hold up well as a standard zombie flick, which is impressive.
Can I Get Any Of You Cunts A Drink?
#757 posted by Kinn [81.152.225.98] on 2004/09/28 12:41:23
Yes, great film. I saw it in the cinema way back when it was released. Is it true though that they filtered out Ed's classic opening line for the American release?
If That's The Line You're Referring To
#758 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/09/28 19:46:38
Then yes, it was in there. Usually the Canadian release is the American release, though not always. We do have a different rating system. More focus on violence, less on fucking language.
Re: Shaun
#759 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.70.215] on 2004/10/02 18:32:09
Lovely, lovely movie. Two thumbs up. Though I'm not big on gore, I did kind of like when David got ripped apart. The best zombie movie I've seen, though I haven't seen all that many. Can't wait for DVD.
Yep Yep,
#760 posted by necros [66.185.84.80] on 2004/10/02 21:39:37
damned hilarious! :D
Aw, Fuck!
#761 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.130] on 2004/10/02 22:30:05
Now I know about David. Thanks Zwif (Just kidding. It will be on DVD before I get a chance to see it. My retention is pure ass.)
American Splendor
#762 posted by Blitz [24.218.86.166] on 2004/10/05 03:39:49
I really enjoyed this one. I never knew about Harvey Pekar until this movie, and he seems like a real weird/fascinating guy. I liked how the man himself did certain scenes, I thought it really added to the feel of the movie.
I couldn't help laughing out loud at some of the scenes, but at the same time I thought the movie was really depressing, but not in an exploitative way.
I reccomend it to anyone interested in a great story about an average, yet largely disturbed and flawed individual trying to find his place in this world.
I laughed the hardest at subtle things in the movie -- for example, at one point the movie becomes the filming of the movie, and we see Paul Giamatti and the actor who plays Harvey's nerdy friend sitting down and watching the real Pekar and nerdy friend have a conversation. Giamatti seems exhausted from doing what is definitely a demanding role, yet he still cracks a grin as he watches the bizarre, but still loving interaction between Pekar and his friend.
More Stuff
#763 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/05 04:44:06
ninja scroll - finally saw this popular anime title and it is pretty cool, depsite the inclusion of certain scenes purely inserted to attract a certain male demographic.
the graduate - really good stuff here, I was surprised how much I liked it. Excellent performances, camerawork and music.
manhattan - alongside Annie Hall, easilty Woody allen's best film. The B&W photography is a treat too.
shattered glass - pretty nifty little film about the downfall of Stephen Glass and it highlights George Lucas's godgiven gift of making reasonable actors put in unbelievably horrid performances in star Wars films.
Strangers on a Train - Top tier Hitchcok film, one of his best works.
suspicion - pretty good Hitch film, ending's a bit flat but otherwise it's a fairly solid suspense exercise utilising point of view.
Also
#764 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/05 04:51:29
I finally got around to seeing the original Star Wars trilogy for the first time. No I'm not joking.
And it's easy to see why it was the one of the most cherished film trilogies of all time. The first two films are on the cheesy side but they are almost the perfect popcorn film, with Empire coming out slightly stronger.
But Return of the Jedi? Ugh! Although it's nowhere near Episodes 1 & 2, you can see the rot setting in.
What I've Been Watching:
#765 posted by metlslime [66.135.131.169] on 2004/10/05 05:12:32
All 5 dirty harry movies -- only the first one is worth it, and even then you have to be interested in the genre. However, even the bad sequels had good scenes with some memorable lines; but they don't justify watching the whole movie. Example:
Harry Callahan: Do you have any kids, lieutenant?
Lt. Ackerman: No.
Harry Callahan: Lucky for them.
Responses to nitin: yeah, the graduate, ninja scroll, and empire strikes back are movies that i'd recommend to people. Strangers on a Train just arrived from Netflix; i haven't watched it yet. Star Wars and Jedi are okay of course, and much better than the new trilogy, but not as good as Empire.
Metl
#766 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/05 05:16:13
Strangers is very good, especially if you like any of the other Hitchcock films.
Speaking Of Netflix
#767 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.141] on 2004/10/05 11:59:02
Is it a good deal? Is it better than going to the local Blockbuster in terms of convenience and selection?
Pushplay:
#768 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/10/05 14:28:47
convenience, absolutely. Selection, probably. Plus finding what you want is MUCH faster than wandering a store for 20 minutes wondering, "hmm, maybe it's in the drama section... no, well maybe it's in the action section... or is it foreign?" If they don't have something, you find out in a couple seconds.
The only downside is you can't spontaneously decide you want to watch some movie and rent it that night; instead you watch movies that you picked, at the earliest, two or three days ago.
Also, "good deal" depends on how often you rent movies, since it's a flat monthly fee.
Yeah, What Metlslime Said
#769 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/10/05 16:16:35
The selection is way better from Netflix than from any of my local shops. All the ones within 10 miles of my house are tiny rural shops that think the Coen brothers are esoteric. Nevermind finding a foreign film other than Amelie or maybe Spirited Away.
I don't think I have anything to add, except that I should stress the flat monthly fee. Some cities are farther away from distribution centers than others, so the shipping time can vary greatly. Also, because you don't get to really pick which movie you watch that night, sometimes a movie will sit around unwatched for a few weeks before you get in the right mood to watch it. Thus, your rate of movies watched per month may decrease, and the value of the service will decrease with it.
Thanks Guys
#770 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.141] on 2004/10/05 16:38:31
I'll try that out then. It seems NetFlix only does the US. Can anyone recommend a good Canadian equivalent?
Also...
#771 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/10/05 18:03:21
I've been told that Blockbuster edits their movies to remove the content they precieve to be most objectionable to mainstream america. Which is another reason i don't want anything to do with them.
...
#772 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/10/05 18:05:12
...Blockbuster edits their movies to remove the content they precieve to be most objectionable to mainstream america.
You mean like an original or creative idea?
I Know
#773 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.141] on 2004/10/05 18:42:49
Blockbuster raped Requiem for a Dream, which was a travesty.
Pushplay
#774 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/05 22:19:21
I use the Aussie equivalent of netflix and it is quite handy. The sheer selection is huge, plus they readily acquire new DVD releases of old films which most Blockbuster stores dont do or take a long time to do.
But keep in mind what rpg said, if it takes more than 2-3 days for delivery to your area, the value is greatly diminished.
Oh
#775 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/05 22:43:30
and canada rental places :
http://www.dvdhype.com
http://www.zip.ca
Nitin
#776 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/10/06 00:15:06
The problem is that there are way too many clones...
http://www.vhqonline.ca/default.do
http://www.moviesforme.ca/
http://www.dvd-rental.ca/
http://www.dvdflix.ca/
http://www.davada.com/Display/inde...
http://www.gameznflix.com/
In addition to the two you mentioned. They can't all not suck.
Well
#777 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/06 00:29:34
just pick one that's close to you so that delivery times arent too much. Most of them have a trial feature so you can get an idea what to expect.
More Movies
#778 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/09 12:09:07
Rashomon - although it doesnt really have that groundbreaking effect nowdays, this is still quite a film. Didnt think it was a great film, but a very good one neverthless.
Irreversible - This movie made me sick. The content combined with the camerwork made me want to throw up. I knew what I was getting into but it still made me feel that way. Many other films have gotten the same point/theme across (and arguably a lot more successfully) without having the primary intention to assault the viewer whenever possible.
House of Sand and Fog - Ben Kinglsey is a fucking gun. Film's pretty good, I like how it doesnt really take sides but some of the events seem too contrived and take away from the whole IMHO.
Re: Fahrenheit 9/11
#779 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.56.234] on 2004/10/10 13:26:49
Awesome. Fuck George. Thank you.
Mean Girls
#780 posted by pope [207.216.236.96] on 2004/10/11 03:32:21
yes!
Rogers Video
#781 posted by pope [207.216.236.96] on 2004/10/11 03:36:55
perhaps the competition for BlockBusters in Vancouver here, instead of editing movies will actually tabulate everything on the back of a movie for you (or parental guardian)
ie.
Profanity - 23 counts
Drug use - 4 counts
Nudity - 12 counts
Graphic Violence - 7 counts
etc... thus helping to guage whether the movie is worth watching for that 1 titty shot!!
Screamin' Mad George Movie FX...
#782 posted by . [68.78.218.159] on 2004/10/11 05:22:26
The main site:
http://www.smgfx.com
Here's a few, theres tons from movies such as Nightmare on Elm Street 4, Freaked, Silent Night Deadly Night, various music videos and video game ads... just awesome stuff!
http://www.smgfx.com/docs/images/b...
http://www.smgfx.com/docs/images/p...
http://www.smgfx.com/docs/images/n...
http://www.smgfx.com/docs/images/c...
http://www.smgfx.com/docs/images/s...
http://www.smgfx.com/docs/images/t...
Blackpope
#783 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/10/11 11:27:57
Profanity - 23 counts
Drug use - 4 counts
Nudity - 12 counts
Graphic Violence - 7 counts
That sounds like a fun movie.
Not Really RPG
#784 posted by pope [207.216.236.96] on 2004/10/11 14:03:33
as it only lists 'Nudity' no 'Sexual Behaviour' or 'Explicit Sexual Behaviour' so thats just tits and ass, or maybe penis. And not much swearing either...
I've Noticed A Lot Of Movies These Days
#785 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.177] on 2004/10/11 14:30:41
for instance like the Boyle zombie movie from last summer are showing winkies and guy buttocks but no female nudity. I knew Harvey Keitel doing full frontal was the start of something really bad.
Forgotten
#786 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/10/11 15:12:47
An excellent execution of a really dumb concept. So does that means it's good or what? Well it has good moments and bad. The end leaves an aweful lot unresolved. I don't need a hollywood hack, storybook ending, but I do need some sort of ending. My brother and I agreed that if this was the start of a cool trillogy it would be a lot more enjoyable in retrospect.
Blackpope...
#787 posted by distrans [203.32.39.126] on 2004/10/12 01:57:39
...sounds like our free to air multi-cultural station SBS on a Saturday night. Only our station gives more info without tabulation:
SBS advises that the following program contains - adult themes, drug references, sex references, frequent coarse language, high level sex scenes, violence and frequent nudity.
...and that is just their music video program.
Distrans
#788 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/12 02:09:53
just be glad we actually get some free to air foreign films :)
Hehe...
#789 posted by distrans [203.32.39.126] on 2004/10/12 02:52:51
...no complaints this end nitin. SBS can be one good reason not to have anything to do on a Saturday night.
I love the foreign movie theme weeks SBS has.
It's Not Film
#790 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/17 01:43:01
but have any of you seen Arrested Development? If so, would you recommend it? It's not being shown on tv here in Australia but I see that the dvd set is out in the US.
#791 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/10/17 02:35:12
Triggermen - A light hearted ganster film shot on a low budget. It's pretty entertaining and has an excellent soundtrack. The characters are definitely what makes it worth watching, though the ending is a little weak. Everything wraps up too neatly.
After the Apocalypse - Saw it at the Edmonton Film Festival. Takes place after WW3 featuring a bunch of people trying to get by without any verbal communication. Shot in b/w on a shoestring budget, with absolutely no dialog. Not a single line. I liked it, but there's no chance you'll ever see it so hah!
Arrested Development - Nitin, the best way to decide for yourself is to grab a torrent and watch an episode. The style is fresh and I think the jokes are pretty damn funny. A friend of mine thought the jokes were tired, but I don't see it. Also, if you grab the first episode, it did improve as it went but should give you a good idea. If you grab a later episode... well some jokes are only funny because of what happened earlier. So I guess you can't win.
Pushplay
#792 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/17 06:27:58
fair enough, but in your opinion is it even enough over the whole season or is it patchy like a lot of shows?
Nitin
#793 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.56.234] on 2004/10/17 11:24:39
IMO, that show is kind of like Seinfeld. A whole bunch of unrelated crazy shit happens, and then somehow comes together at the end. It's also kind of wierd, they got this big wierd incest story going on, and it's just fuckin crazy. I wouldn't call it like hilarious, but I do feel satisfied after watching it.
Nitin
#794 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/10/17 15:56:58
Nah, it's pretty consistent. The episodes pretty much flow from one into the other. It's not even a little like Seinfeld.
Cool
#795 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/18 00:11:37
I'll look into getting it then.
Aladin
#796 posted by ProdigyXL [24.247.207.25] on 2004/10/18 01:44:31
is
awesome.
'Nuff said.
All Good Teenagers Take Off Their Clothes!
#797 posted by Blitz [24.218.86.166] on 2004/10/18 02:57:03
[nt]
Game Over Man! Game Over!
#798 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/20 01:39:29
UK Teletext reports that British director Paul W. S. Anderson ("Alien vs. Predator", "Resident Evil") is to write the sixth movie in the "Alien" franchise, according to sources close to the film maker.
Newcastle-born Anderson, 39, has apparently been asked by Twentieth Century Fox to pen a new script featuring the creatures on their own (ie. no Predators). Whether that includes the return of Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) however is unknown.
The offer for the moment is simply to pen the script, not to direct as such although that may happen thanks to the success of AVP
While I'm Here
#799 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/20 01:49:35
some more stuff I saw :
Yojimbo - pretty good, has a coolness about it in terms of mood which is nice.
King of Comedy - I'm glad I checked this out because for a Scorcese film, this doesnt get much mention. I guess that might have to do with the lack of any signatory Scorcese visual pyrotechnics, but it's easily one of his best films. Robert DeNiro is excellent in this psychotic/comic role.
Cool Hand Luke - Excellent film, Paul Newman in great form and pretty good script. Also, I would have never thought this to be the movie behind some of the inspiration for the Coens' O Brother Where Art Thou.
Ran - Drags a bit in the middle due to the script but the direction is outstanding. The use of the screen is seldomly done so well. It's also refreshing to see 'real' armies in this day of CGI everything.
The Day After Tomorrow - Big, dumb and boring. I quit after about an hour in, despite some impressive effects.
All About Eve - Didnt like this much, seemed like a lite version of Sunset Boulevard, which is a much beter film.
Re: Paul W S Anderson
#800 posted by Kinn [81.138.30.1] on 2004/10/20 03:37:50
Yeah, it's a fucking shame, but there's very little art in mainstream cinema these days - Anderson will bang out a film in half the time it takes a proper director, make sure there's enough explosions and "bullet time" to amuse the braying hordes, and he'll do all this on the cheap as well, which is why Hollywood love him so much. The only director that can out-shit Anderson is Uwe Boll. (Watch the "Alone in the Dark" teaser trailer if you don't believe me).
Kinn
#801 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/20 04:07:35
it really doesnt have to be ART, Aliens wasnt an art film, Die Hard wasnt an art film but they were bloody enjoyable nonetheless.
As for Alien 6, given Mr Anderson's past scripts, I expect the final draft to be ready by the weekend.
Alien 6
#802 posted by starbuck [129.215.13.84] on 2004/10/20 05:07:56
aliens are let loose in a shopping mall. It's up to a sassy cop with street smarts to find an antidote to the aliens acid blood before its too late, and the aliens escape from Dunkin' Donuts to theaten mankind.
But all hell breaks loose and its time for an ethnically diverse team of civilians (including one comic relief character and one guy in a wheelchair) to block the motorway, so the aliens can't leave the city. They succeed, but a few of them die. The End.
Starbuck
#803 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/20 05:34:47
You should be making films, coming up with a script like that usually takes at least a weekend.
With people like you around, how can Paul W S Anderson compete? The world is too unfair.
German Movie
#804 posted by megaman [217.229.143.35] on 2004/10/20 08:05:28
dunno if youll ever get the opportunity to watch this one, buts its very nice. title translates into
"agnes and his brothers" by oskar roehler
im not sure what genre i should sort this one into - portrait/melodrama or sth., but anyways its a very intense watch!
Semantics
#805 posted by Kinn [81.138.30.1] on 2004/10/20 08:18:56
nitin: well, you know what I mean. I'm not saying Alien 6 should be a black and white foreign language film about an incestual thalidomide family or anything, but I'd at least expect that the director respect Ridley Scott's legacy and produce something other than the badger-felching cinematic offal that characterises every single other film on Paul W S Anderson's resume.
Also
#806 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/10/20 10:58:16
Alien 6? WTF happened to 5? Surely AvP isn't considered the 5th Alien film?
Looks Like
#807 posted by Vondur [195.128.65.237] on 2004/10/20 11:02:11
avp considered as 5th film
and people, stop speaking about alien franchise when kell is around!
Oh God
#808 posted by ProdigyXL [141.209.35.204] on 2004/10/20 11:19:37
They should of stopped at 3, at least that had some artistic value. 4 and AVP have just destroyed the franchise. I haven't seen AVP, and I refuse to, I don't want to loose any more faith in these movies.
I have the Quadrology or whatever and someone made the point that the 5th film could be a precursor to the first film. Like how the first alien ship goot there, did someone get their first? That kind of thing, that would be interesting.
I Think
#809 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/10/20 11:20:46
I think I am actually going to be physically sick :(
Prod
#810 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/10/20 11:34:24
exploring the origins of the derelict, its pilot and the alien species-as-bioweapon has been a perennial for fanbois like myself.
While I and a few others would be very interested in such expansion, I don't think it would make for a good film in its own right, because it would rely so much on knowledge of the franchise while at the same time trying to mask the alien behind the mystery of the first film ( essentially impossible now that so much has been revealed over the course of the films ).
I always believed the best source for Aliens stories, following the second film, was the graphic novels. An Animatrix type project could have been an option at one time.
With a new alien-only movie, I think the best approach they could have taken with regard the latter film(s) could have been the same as Highlander 3 ( still an awful movie ), i.e. disregarding the previous sequel entirely.
However, if AvP is considered canon by the studio and Anderson has been handed the project ( instead of Cameron and/or Ridley as was previously rumoured ) then all hope is truly lost.
Really, I think the alien franchise lost it when Weaver was allowed to decide she was its most important element. Which, just to clarify, she fucking isn't.
Alien Resurrection
#811 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/10/20 11:39:10
I don't really get it why people diss it so much. IMHO, it's 2nd best alien film, right after Aliens (the 2nd movie). I can't understand how could anyone consider the first Alien movie to be the best of them all, it was B-grade trash.
Farscape - Peacekeeper Wars
#812 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/10/20 11:46:29
I guess some of you might've heard of the new Farscape miniseries which is aired on Sci-Fi. Since Sci-Fi is no longer avaible in Scandinavia (yes, not avaible at all), I had to download the episodes off the net, but oh well.
Anyways, the websites say that it's a 4 houts long miniseries consisting of 4 episodes made to finish the story of Farscape (yes, John and Aeryn are brought back, in a sensible way). It was a very decent flick, but I was left wondering why the websites were lying about it. It's actually 3 hours long and consists of 2 episodes, 1 1/2 hours each.
Jago
#813 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/20 11:58:16
watch Alien on a big screen with surround sound, it's a stunning film in all respects.
Especially if you see it first and then the others (the chestburster scene and android reveal dont have the same impact if you know whats coming).
Nitin
#814 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/10/20 12:05:50
I´ve watched all Alien movies in their proper order and the first movie failed to do a whole lot of impact on me. To top that off, the latter movies have noticably higher re-watch value. I think that at this point, I've seen Aliens SE about 15 times, Alien 3 about 8 times and Alien Resurrection 6 times. I've only watched Alien twice.
You Lie
#815 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/20 12:20:22
no one could have seen alien resurrection 6 times and still live to tell the tale!
Jago...
#816 posted by ProdigyXL [216.111.202.25] on 2004/10/20 13:40:54
Regardless of which order you watch the films, Alien remains the best of the series. Aliens is very very close second tho. I think you went into the movies with the idea that they would all be similar to Aliens, high octane action flick. The orginal Alien tho is a suspense driven, horror flick. It was about atmosphere and sounds, mystery. It came down to what you didn't see, more than what you did see.
The best way to experience a film like that is, as mentioned above, dark room, by yourself with surround sound cranked up. I really suggest you take another look at the original and see that even by todays standards a marvolous movie.
As ar as watching Resurretion 6 times, I can't help but think you must be dead inside by now. No matter if you're a fan or the series or not, that was just a bad movie. Predictable plot, poor and unrealistic special effects, emmensily annoying characters, and on and on, just bad.
Mmmm...
#817 posted by Vigil [62.248.248.159] on 2004/10/20 13:42:32
I love it how this thread always ends up being about Alien.
but I'd at least expect that the director respect Ridley Scott's legacy
But Aliens didn't respect Scott's legacy, at all. Neither did Alien 3, it didn't even respect Cameron's legacy.
Having a queen was Cameron's idea, Ridley Scott had the eggs made from humans. Scott didn't like this.
Moving on a few years, and Cameron didn't really like how Newt and Hicks were killed so abruptly.
Three quality films (oh shut up, I really like Alien 3), each with a different director with his own, different ideas, which also means that the sequels aren't quite what the previous director(s) wanted. This is quite true if you watch the special editions. In each movie, the creature itself behaves differently, and looks different. Of course, I'm not saying this is entirely a bad thing. I'm having real problems getting my point across, aren't I? It's just that the ethos itself, if one only counts the movies, isn't that consistent within itself.
I can't understand how could anyone consider the first Alien movie to be the best of them all, it was B-grade trash.
First of all, I agree with nitin. Second of all, you should remember the year this movie was made, and think about the scifi movies made before it. Alien came out in 1979. All of a sudden, space wasn't a happy place to be, it was eerie, claustrophobic, plausible, and, most of all, fucking scary.
This creature wasn't just some guy wearing a rubber suit in a movie, it was simply... alien (mind the pun), horrifying. So fucking frightening that Veronic Cartwright's character freezes when she sees it. It has acid for blood, it seems terrifyingly smart, and it's extremely fast and deadly.
Then consider the budget, which wasn't much. Yet Nostromo's insides look absolutely fabulous, very compact, very empty and desolate. Octagonal hallways? Yup, got plenty of them here. Seen them elsewhere? Guess where they're from. (Somebody point out if this is horribly wrong.)
And then there's the chest burster scene...
Christ, That Was Long
#818 posted by Vigil [62.248.248.159] on 2004/10/20 13:44:08
One more thing thought. The Quadrilogy set is very much worth buying. Thank you.
Now, Fox should simply send me that check...
The Quadrilogy Set
#819 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/10/20 13:48:31
I plan on buying it when I get a spare 60 euro. Too bad there are many things I have to buy which are somewhat higher on my priority list (like new monitor, new cpu heatsink/cooler and possibly a new CPU). But eventually, I'll get it.
Oi
#820 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.56.234] on 2004/10/20 14:03:24
Relating to the comics from Dark Horse, of which I am a big fan, Aliens themselves are explained very clearly in how they act as a hive species. Not all Aliens are of the same hive, thus sometimes you get hive wars - hence the comic Alien: Hive War which IMO was one of the best.
As far as the movies go, this is my order:
Aliens
Alien (It's classic, so that's why it rates this high.)
AvP
Alien Resurrection
Alien 3
Alien 3 is abysmal. (sp?) Why they brought Ripley back in Resurrection makes absolutely no sense to me whatsoever. Yeah, geeks like that 'familiar' feeling, but seriously, the whole Alien mythos is too big to be concentrated on one character again and again.
The Alien series is also very diverse as far as movie genres go; You have horror, action, suspense, thriller, etc etc. Yes, you also have some comedy and maybe some romance - but I won't get into that.
As for Alien 6, I'm looking forward to it. I would love to see AvP 2 as well, I'm a diehard fan of both, and AvP made me very, very happy. I mean it's so early that you can't say "GOD DAMN THEY GOT THAT ONE GUY TO PEN THE SCRIPT TO THE 6th ALIEN MOVIE??? FUCK !!! THOSE SCAMPIE-WORSHIPPERS!!!" It could turn out really, really well.
I would like to see other Alien species though, instead of the normal Human-alien, Dog-alien, Queen, facehugger etc. That's one of the great things about the comics - they explore so many different aspects of the Alien mythos, including diverse Alien species.
Zwiffle
#821 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/20 22:07:12
a script is very important, and Mr Anderson has repeatedly shown an inability to even produce a script, let alone a good one.
America! Fuck Yeah!
#822 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/10/21 01:28:21
Tell me, Mr. Anderson, what good is a script when you are unable to write?
I just saw Team America World Police. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. If you like South Park or hate Jerry Bruckheimer then you absolutely have to see it.
Cough
#823 posted by Vondur [195.128.65.237] on 2004/10/21 03:54:30
i love ALL the aliens equally, they ALL rock!
/me gonna watch avp soonish tho
Team America
#824 posted by ProdigyXL [24.247.207.25] on 2004/10/21 09:34:03
Yeah I saw that on Monday. It was pretty damn funny, and like you said I pretty much expected it to be that way. In one way thats good, but in the other way it was very similar to watching an episode of South Park. Which makes sense, but I was hoping it would be a little more different. Either way, it was funny as hell so people should see it.
Films I've Seen Recently
#825 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/10/25 17:59:02
SAW
Fairly average movie, I thought. I wasn't particularly shocked by the SHOCKER element, and I wasn't kept in much suspense by the plot either, partly because I didn't give a shit about the characters. Not terrible by any means though, and it's a very un-holywood concept of a film, which can only be a good thing. Just don't expect to "work out what's going to happen" or who the "bad guy" is, as they made it up with 5 minutes to spare, after downing tequilas for a few hours.
Layer Cake
A British Gangster flick currently doing the rounds. I have two problems with this film.
1) Every review I read of this movie told me that Jude Law's missus would be prancing around in her underwear for about 1/2 of the movie. Was she fuck. Five seconds at best.
2)No cakes. Not even a speed-eating tournament. No lessons on baking OR decorating sweet dough-based desserts.
Apart from these shortcomings this is a quality film, and rare in that it doesn't copy the Lock-Stock style, instead preferring a classier, understated feel. Daniel Craig was great as the lead, reminded me of Michael Caine in the original Get Carter. All in all, pretty good, bit of a disappointing ending though.
Anchorman / Dodgeball
I put these two together because they're so similar. These are two of the stupidest movies i've ever seen in my life. Also, some of the funniest. You have to be in the right mood, maybe partly drunk and in a large group, but this is some hilarious shit. Out of the two, i'd probably pick Dodgeball, as i'm more of a Ben Stiller fan, but Will Farrell kicks ass as Ron Burgandy, the man with suits so fine he made Sinatra look like a hobo.
Hero
Barely passable arty shite. Firstly, it fails to be a good kung-fu movie. How? By not actually having any fights. Do you like it in Crouching Tiger, Wanking Dragon when people fly away like pussies? Then rejoice, because in this film you don't get anything else. I don't think anybody gets hit in the whole film. A few people get stabbed, but you dont get to see it. In fact you don't get to see any blood at all. But you do get to see some flimsy wire-work and some laughable characters, wrapped around a story unsuitable for an episode of the 'jackie chan adventures' cartoon.
Seriously, it might seem I was being harsh, but for the price of a ticket or two to see Hero, you could go see a good Jet Li film, like Twin Warriors. Basically in that film jet li and his friend are badass shaolin monks that get into lots of other fights with other monks, then they start a massive fight and kick awesome amounts of ass but then get kicked out of the shaolin temple for being too badass. So basically they go around beating LOADS of people up, the police, the army, rebels, villagers, drunkards, women, FOR AGES. It's awesome, trust me... watch that, and Hero, then tell me which is better.
Some Older Films
#826 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/10/25 18:18:59
The Virgin Suicides
Do you know what it's like when its the start of the weekend, and there's so much you've got planned; so much stuff you could do, and you're so excited.... then in what seems like seconds you've wasted your time and you better sleep because you've got work tomorrow?
Now, translate that into a movie and you've got The Virgin Suicides. It's about this family, where there's a strict devout mother, and slightly less-so father. They have lots of daughters, including the definitely-not-virgin Kirsten Dunst. The girls arent allowed out so they start killing themselves (note: not a spoiler). Most of the film surrounds the local loser kids who obsess over these kids, and some dork who ends up shagging Kirstin (you dont get to see, no). They build up this whole mystery around the girls, repeatedly saying that no one understood them, asking why they might have possibly killed themselves, while you're there shouting "IT'S FUCKING OBVIOUS WHY THEY DID IT!! THEY'RE CRAZY, AND TRAPPED IN A HOUSE WITH A CRAZY WOMAN FOR YEARS, YOU DICKHEADS!". Well I was anyway. It annoyed me, as this film had potential, and used up all its screentime on pointless crap. It's interesting and it tries to be mysterious, but it's as shallow as kirstin's cleavage.
Office Space
Great comedy. I'm glad I don't work in a cubicle, but if I did, i'd probably quit my job. It's all about how an office worker goes from completely stressed out, to completely mellow after his hypnotist dies mid-session. He gets promoted, gets Jennifer Aniston, and a fat load of money by de-frauding the company.
On the subject of office-comedy, if you haven't already seen the Terry Tate adverts, go watch them NOW!! It's highly unlikely you'll have seen them if you aren't from the U.S.
http://www.milkandcookies.com/keyw...
I would recommend watching the Ad called Terry's World first.
Hero
#827 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/10/25 18:55:58
Starbuck, you must've been totally on acid if you really think Twin Warriors was better than Hero.
Heh
#828 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/10/25 19:11:10
"You know you need a cover sheet on your TPS reports, Richard! That ain't new, baby!"
Terry Tate, Office Linebacker is funny.
Oh, And
#829 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/10/25 19:11:43
I felt pretty much the samething about The Virgin Suicides, Starbuck.
C'mon Now
#830 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/10/25 19:19:26
maybe you could give a little more insight into why you preferred Hero?
My reasons for preferring Twin Dragons are simple. I watch martial arts films to watch fights. Good fights, showing lots of ability, speed, power and originality in the proponents. I like the simple joy of watching kung-fu nutcases kicking ass with explosive speed and style. Other things that worked against Hero, by my own ratings system were "too bloody pretentious", "too big a budget", and "thinks it's clever (isn't)". Just because a film is slow and arty, doesn't mean its deep. Seriously, grow some balls, next you're gonna be telling me you don't like Army of Darkness ;)
R.P.G
#831 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/10/25 19:23:10
that line had me in hysterics when I heard it in Terry Tate... by coincidence it was about a day after i watched office space. For the record, i think the director of Virgin Suicides needs some of Terry's extra special Pain Cake, and you won't want seconds of that!
Starbuck Where'd You
#832 posted by pope [207.216.236.96] on 2004/10/25 22:24:01
get to see SAW? its not in theatres until the 28th here..
all the versions ive seen online were of decent calibre :|
Starbuck
#833 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/25 22:31:57
Hero is definitely pretentious, but it does look stunning IMHO. The use of color and space is very well done. The looks held my attention.
And it's not really a kung fu movie either. Personally I think both this and crouching tiger are overrated (except the michelle yeoh/zhang ziyi fight at the end which is brilliant), but still well worth watching.
And no, I dont like Army of Darkness :)
And Recent Viewings Again
#834 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/25 22:43:27
Dawn of the Dead remake - pretty good solid action movie with standard ludicrous plot points and character relations. I never really liked the original that much but it did have more humour.
Arsenic and old lace - Surprisingly good comedy even though some of the slapstick towards the end is silly. What it does right, IMHO, is play the outlandish plot so straight that it seems normal.
Cowboy Bebop Movie - Easily the best feature length anime I've seen because it actually has a proper plot that wasnt written by drunk monkeys with a heroin problem. And as usual, it looks nice with some killer animation during the fights.
Delicatassen - Not bad quirky french comedy from Jeunet and Caro. Better than City of Lost Children but not as good as the overrated Amelie.
Sanjuro - good followup to Yojimbo, much better paced but lacks some of the mood.
Schindler's List - I had never seen this before but it is every bit as good as it was made out to be. It looks phenomenal and Spielberg does not sentimentalise the story at all which is rare. Ralph Fiennes and Liam Neeson are terrific.
The Treasure of Sierra Madre - Very good film, let down by a lame ending. Bogart probably puts in his best performance.
'ahem', Ladies And Gentlemen,
#835 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.4] on 2004/10/26 02:04:24
My Personal Award for Least Pretentious and Reasonably Informative Movie Review goes too . . . (break the seal, open the razor sharp fold, ruffle the silky gold paper inserts) Starbuck! (Applause! Applause! Applause!)
Hey, Nitin
#836 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.4] on 2004/10/26 02:07:31
Badges? We Dont Need No Stinkin' Badges!
Delicatessan...
#837 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/10/26 05:46:04
One of my favourite films. "Not bad" eh.
Shambler
#838 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/26 06:59:37
IMHO the script wasnt as clever as the filmakers thought. Like a few Coen Brother movies, it mistook just being quirky and stylish as being clever.
Delicatessan
#839 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/10/26 08:11:58
i agree with Nitin pretty much; I do like the film, nice visual style, good idea, great cast. Felt a little insubstantial to my tastes though, couldn't really see where it was going. Maybe reading the book would help flesh it out a little, it's on my desk but I haven't got round to starting it yet.
Blackpope: I saw it in Scotland, but I know it's out in England too. That's surprising that we got it first, has that ever happened before?
Headthump: cheers, dude... glad someone appreciates me raising my blood pressure like this ;)
Office Space
#840 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/26 08:35:30
is it at all like the BBC series The Office? That has to be one of the funniest shows ever made.
No, Not Really
#841 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/10/26 08:51:06
i wouldn't put 'Office Space' in the same class as 'The Office'. Office Space is a lot lighter and less subtle, and no one would ever accuse it of being a work of genius. It's funny, yes, but 'The Office' messes with you a lot more, you can feel depressed, you might be cringing, and then you're in hysterics for a good 10 minutes. Office Space is just a funny movie about cover sheets on TPS reports.
It's A Wonderful Life
#842 posted by nitin [138.217.0.118] on 2004/10/26 11:49:40
this movie is dripping with sentimentality and coated with enough sugar to give you diabetes.
Yet, it's extremely difficult to resist its charm. I dont know what it is, but I'm sure that James Stewart's performance is part of the reason why this isnt a pile of mush.
Great Film
#843 posted by starbuck [129.215.13.83] on 2004/10/26 20:36:46
You have to go along with it, but its cheesy sentimentality makes for an enjoyable viewing, especially at Christmas, of course. The only thing that grates for me is the painful Christian references that are thrown out throughout the film.
Casshern
#844 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/10/29 20:07:49
If you can be satisfied with stylish action movies that don't make much sense then you'll like this. It gets a million bonus points for style and 50/100 for plot. Keeping track of two scenes happening simulaneously is easy enough, but quick cuts between three with overlapping audio in subtitles is tricky. There are a few scenes where it's hard to tell if what you see is really happening or a metaphor. Also, there's a random clamation scene thrown in for no reason.
The end of the movie does pull together what would otherwise be a series of nonsequitors, but it's still confusing.
Movie Suggestions And Recent Viewings
#845 posted by nitin [138.217.0.144] on 2004/10/30 00:36:52
I've had a lot of spare time lately so I've gone through a ton of my unwatched DVD stack since my comp is too crap to run any new games. I've only got 3 movies left so I'm going to ask for suggestions of movies to watch. What I currently own and have seen can be found here : http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
Great Escape - Pretty good escape flick. Nice cast and script.
On the Waterfront - Brilliant film, especially the acting. the ending's a bit of a copout but the acting almsost saves it.
Rope - Not a bad little experimental film from Hitch. Ther performances and script never quite click but it's worth a watch anyway.
Troy - Was this a parody of epic war films or just plain stupid? It seems that the prerequisite to act in this movie was to have previous experience and exceptional skill in gazing into the distance.
Smith Bot - It Coming!
#846 posted by Friction [80.186.189.105] on 2004/10/30 16:20:55
I, Robot was surprisingly watchable movie, pacing was good and most of the action good. Just don't expect much or any hard sci-fi from it. Also, SHODAN!
RE: Starbuck: Saw
#847 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.56.234] on 2004/10/30 17:09:09
Very, very disappointing. I feel bad for Danny Glover, he was the only good actor in the entire thing. Premise: Awesome. Acting/dialogue was pretty awful. Some of the scenes were downright hilarious, though they weren't supposed to be. So, a dude cut off his foot for $6.50. If it had a different director, bigger budget, decent actors, and better script, woulda been good. But it's a B-Movie "psychological thriller" attempting to be an A-movie modern day suspense with some gore.
Suggestions For Movies To Watch
#848 posted by pjw [24.158.14.194] on 2004/10/31 13:14:25
I'm just going to list some from my owned list that I don't see on yours that I think are especially good and/or significant.
(I should maybe note that I am really picky about what DVDs I actually buy--I went through a tape phase where I had about 87 million videotapes sitting around that I never watched; I eventually threw most of them away and vowed to not make the same mistake with DVDs.)
The Bank Dick (1940) - If you like W.C. Fields, it's one of his best.
Big Trouble in Little China (1986) - If you don't like this movie, you are a sad, sad person.
Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992) - Has its flaws, but is one of the more original and compelling visions of Dracula to come along in quite a while.
Brazil - Very different and original science fiction/fantasy from Terry Gilliam.
The Company of Wolves - An interesting (and at times very visually striking and somewhat shocking) take on a number of different werewolf themes and legends. Inconsistent, but some of the bits are really nicely done.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels - I'm not normally a big Steve Martin fan, but he shines alongside Micheal Caine in this tale of deception, scams, and iffy behavior.
The Goonies - This movie kind of epitomizes growing up in the 80s and the peculiar sort of "feel" that had, at least for some, and while it's certainly not great cinema for the ages, it's fun and lighthearted and doesn't really take itself too seriously.
Wow, this is getting sorta long...
More next post.
#849 posted by pjw [24.158.14.194] on 2004/10/31 13:43:30
Also, just realized I stopped listing dates. Oh well.
Harvey - James Stewart is absolutely wonderful in this very odd movie. If I were going to make a top ten list, this would probably be on it.
Highlander - I was surprised this wasn't on your list. It's kinda cheesy and weird (especially with the glam-rock soundtrack from Queen), but has a odd sort of power to it. Sean Connery helps a lot.
Key Largo - John Houston, Humphrey Bogart, Edward G. Robinson, Lauren Bacall, and Lionel Barrymore. How can you go wrong?
The Man Who Would Be King - Another excellent John Houston movie based on a Kipling tale of two adventurers (Sean Connery and Micheal Caine) in India.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail - C'mon?! You don't have this movie? What's wrong with you? :) (Or are you just not a Monty Python fan?)
Raiders of the Lost Ark - Again, what? No Raiders?! The best of the three, IMO.
The Return of the Pink Panther and The Revenge of the Pink Panther - IMO, these two movies best showcase the particular comedic genius that Peter Sellers polished to a high gloss with the Inspector Clouseau character.
The Professional - Jean Reno, Gary Oldman, and a very young Natalie Portman are excellent in this odd tale of a hit man with a heart.
S.O.B. - Blake Edwards made this absolutely wickedly funny send up and dissection of Hollywood and the movie making establishment. And Julie Andrews flashes her boobs and cusses like a sailor, can't beat that.
Bleh, part three:
#850 posted by pjw [24.158.14.194] on 2004/10/31 14:21:59
Something Wicked This Way Comes - Pretty good adaptation of a wonderful Ray Bradbury story. There are some changes from the text, some of which may have been ill-considered, but overall it's well worth watching.
Sorcerer - Incredibly tense, taut action film about poor bastards trying to transport unstable dynamite through miles of jungle in shitty old trucks. Great Tangarine Dream score.
True Romance - One of my favorite films. An awesome Thriller/Romance/Action/Crime/Dram... from Quentin Tarantino involving drugs and whores and pimps and Hollywood and the power of True Love. It really kicks ass. Great performances from Christian Slater, Patrica Arquette, Dennis Hopper, Christopher Walken, Samuel L. Jackson, Brad Pitt, Val Kilmer and Gary Oldman. Get the director's cut, if possible.
Wild at Heart - Another fave, and another freaky love story strained through David Lynch's typical screen of violence, sex, and just plain weird shit. Laura Dern and Nicholas Cage shine, and while the ending is a little...different...and probably won't appeal to everyone, IMO it's just the cherry on top of the ice cream and hot fudge.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory - Gene Wilder with a performance that is, by turns, endearing and sorta nutty and scary. A nice adaptation of the Roald Dahl book, Charie and the Chocolate Factory.
Young Sherlock Holmes - Very nice take on what might have been, if Holmes and Watson had met as teens, and been drawn into evil plots and Egyptian cults.
k', I'll quit hogging the thread now. That got a little out of control.
Pjw
#851 posted by nitin [138.217.0.144] on 2004/10/31 20:14:00
thanks for that, lots there that I havent seen. Some comments on some you did suggest though :
big trouble in little china - Maybe I'm a sad sad person, but I dont really like this film. But then again, I never got into Evil dead either.
brazil - it has moments of brilliance but overall, I could never quite get into this movie either.
key largo - been meaning to check this out.
monty python stuff - all three films are hilarious in parts, downright silly in others. They're jsut too patchy for my taste.
raiders of the lost ark - this is there, it is like you said the best of the three by far. The DVD release re-titles it to Indian Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark which is probably why you didnt see it.
Pink Panther movies - Sellers is a brilliant comedian, but slapstick is not my thing and although the Panther films are high class slapstick, it still doesnt work for me.
The Professional - Have this too, just under its original title of Leon rather than The Professional.
Thanks for the other suggestions, I'll take a look into them.
Brazil
#852 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/10/31 20:22:09
Brazil is long, boring, pretentiosly esoteric drivel. Nice designs, though.
My thoughts may be because I saw the 142 minute director's cut.
Also, I just really feel like bashing something.
Rpg
#853 posted by nitin [138.217.0.144] on 2004/10/31 20:29:22
the DC is better than the original cut, but I have similar feelings to you, but probably not as strong.
Big Trouble In Little China
#854 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.23] on 2004/10/31 22:55:22
is tooooooooooooo Hollywood for my taste, but I am the only person I know who didn't like it.
Though it reminds me of how cute Kim Cattrall use to be before she got caught up in the whole Vapid Whores in New York, I mean Sex in the City thing.
Headthump
#855 posted by nitin [138.217.0.144] on 2004/10/31 23:54:32
well now you know another person that didnt like it.
Lol
#856 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.183] on 2004/11/01 00:04:42
yes, I meant to add 'before Nitin's comment, I was the only . . .'. I got distracted with visions of Kim Cattrall in an 80's puff dew in my head.
My brother made me watch it with his family a few weeks back. It is still fresh in my memory.
*shrug*
#857 posted by pjw [24.158.14.194] on 2004/11/01 00:30:05
Oh well. :)
It's ninjas and magic and goofy shit and Kurt Russell making smart-ass comments, and tongue-in-cheek way out to here. What's not to like? :)
I think David LoPan said it best.
http://www.planetquake.com/pjw/gra...
Big Trouble In Little China
#858 posted by starbuck [129.215.16.12] on 2004/11/01 05:56:27
rocks! Me and 4 other guys hit the clubs dressed as ninjas last night, so I've got background experience to support my opinion.
True Romance:
It's been a while since I saw this, but it was really good, christian slater in particular does a great job. Seems like it tries a little bit hard sometimes though... I know it's a Tarantino script, but it's SO Tarantino, it grates a little bit.
Raiders of the lost Ark:
Spielberg + George Lucas + Harrison Ford = Pure Entertainment
If you haven't seen the Indy films then seriously, what are you thinking? I don't know why I'm even commenting on this, other than because it makes me happy just thinking about it.
Need you sa
I Dont Know What That End Bit Was
#859 posted by starbuck [129.215.16.12] on 2004/11/01 05:57:41
you can complete the sentence yourself if you feel like it
Need You Sa
#860 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.56.234] on 2004/11/01 09:46:19
ve up a cellar of diseased rat-monkies for sexual relief?
Classic...
#861 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2004/11/01 23:45:41
You just listen to the ol' Pork Chop Express an' take his advice on a dark and stormy night when some wild-eyed eight-foot tall maniac grabs your neck an' taps the back of your favorite head up against a barroom wall. An' he looks you crooked in the eye an' he asks if you've paid your dues. You look right back at that big sucker an' remember what Jack Burton
always says at times like that.
"Have you paid your dues, Jack"
"No, sir, I've just charged 'em."
Actually, I Think That Ends With
#862 posted by pjw [68.117.135.218] on 2004/11/01 23:56:25
"The check is in the mail!"
Hehe...
#863 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2004/11/02 00:21:42
I'm working off an earlier draft of the script.
Regardless...
#864 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2004/11/02 00:23:32
...my family and I do need to gather every couple of years to watch BTILC amongst other things (Black Adder series two for instance). It brings us closer together.
Well, You Know What Old Jack Burton Says...
#865 posted by Jack Burton [24.159.176.147] on 2004/11/03 19:46:35
About people quoting Jack Burton? Well hell, he likes it. Then he gets all pissed off because he didn't get to say it at the time. But then he thinks about it for a bit, thinks that maybe it was like someone did him a favor, and he likes that. Then he gets tired of thinkin' about it, and goes back to the bottle of Cuervo.
The Incredibles...
#866 posted by Scampie [68.117.128.75] on 2004/11/06 00:15:36
... are incredible. Great movie, went to see it with PJW and the rest of the Raven crew this afternoon. Pixar always blows you away with it's CGI wonders, but I always worry going in that due to their affiliation with Disney that the films will be too cutesy and preachy. Fortunatly, everything came off as an entertaining piece of work and never tried to drill any morals into your brain.
Only true issues with the film is that all the super characters are copy and paste rip offs and the villian's origin and motive are rather cliche. Both were things easily overlooked with all the great humor and the decent plotline.
I give the movie a Scampie TWO THUMBS UP!
Also, there was a great little short film at the beginning of the movie that was pure excellence... but that's where they did all their preachy moral stuff. Still can't beat naked sheep.
Toy Story
#867 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/06 00:53:48
is my favorite pixar film, though I like them all. I'm really looking forward to the Incredibles after the poor run of recent animated films (shark tale, shrek 2, ice age)
Pixar And Flying Daggers
#868 posted by cyBeAr [213.65.179.30] on 2004/11/06 05:47:53
didn't they break free from disney or something?
I saw flying daggers yesterday and I liked most of what I saw. Even if there are things in it I don't like it would be worth watching just for the incredibly beautifull opening scenes and the coolness of the male main character running around in the woods wearing his blue dress and funky cap.
More Films
#869 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/06 08:54:50
night of the hunter</> - I have to admit that the visuls were well done, some of the imagery was very striking and dreamy. But the rest of it was very hokey in every department, especially the score.
open range - typically slow but perfectly watchable kevin costner western that looks beautiful and has an absolute corker of a shootout at the end.
touch of evil - confusing, elaborate, hammy but in the end very stylish and well made noir film by Orson Welles.
Pushplay & Zwiflle
#870 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/06 08:57:57
thanks for recommending Arrested Development.
I got the DVD set and it's fucking hilarious. Only about a third of the way through the season but it's the funniest show I've seen in ages.
Right
#871 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/06 08:58:31
As moderator, I ban myself from this thread till I learn how to use tags.
Cas
#872 posted by csa [212.237.158.8] on 2004/11/08 03:48:18
cds
Cas
#873 posted by csa [212.237.158.8] on 2004/11/08 03:48:19
cds
W3rd
#874 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/11/08 09:08:24
As moderator, I ban myself from this thread till I learn how to use tags.
FINALLY!!
It only took nearly 900 posts...
Casshern
#875 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.85.126] on 2004/11/14 18:07:42
http://www.apple.com/jp/quicktime/...
OMFG !!!!
Hot Crap On A Stick!
#876 posted by Scampie [68.117.128.75] on 2004/11/15 00:12:19
That looks very awesome :D
I'll definately be seeking a subtitled copy of that out once it's availible!
W3rd.
#877 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/11/15 03:27:03
Looks very cool indeed - that a forthcoming film?? If so, someone get me to an arthouse cinema ASAP!
It's Already Out On DVD In Japan
#878 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.85.126] on 2004/11/15 09:53:30
GoFish, a division of DreamWorks, bought the US licensing properties and whatnot in October, so it should be out sometime in 2005. Maybe even Christmas . :D
More Stuff
#879 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/16 09:43:58
been on a hitchcock binge lately, thought I'd check out the rest of his works since I'd been through most of the big ones.
saboteur - crap script and crap acting, but the film gets up to average standard because of the good direction.
marnie - another psycholgical thriller attempt after Spellbound and like that one, it comes across heavily dated but probably not as much. In fact, it could have been a neat little film despite the weakish script if the leads were better actors.
frenzy - took too long to get going and none of the charcters were too appealing for me to really care for this one.
the man who knew too much - good effective thriller, but the ending was lame.
the trouble with harry - as non-hitchock as you can get. Its funny in that deadpan british kind of way but its a one ida film that doesnt really work.
foreign correspondent<i/> - good film, dated script but great set pieces that are executed very well.
Almost Had It That Time
#880 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/16 09:47:38
but it wouldnt be a Func post without borked tags.
Arrested Development - Finished the entire first season. Easily the best american sitcom since Seinfeld's glory days and the funniest show I've viewed since The Office.
Shaun of the Dead - Mildly amusing but hardly hilarious IMHO. It runs out of steam at about the hour mark too.
Hard Boiled And The Iron Giant
#881 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/21 03:58:38
Had heard a lot about Hard Boiled and the gunplay. The action scenes, especially the climactic one, are definitely spectacular and creative. But the rest of the film is utter garbage. If only John Woo could attach that sort of action to a decent film. Face Off would have been a great candidate for that sort of gunplay. The action scenes in that were decent but nothing like what was in Hard Boiled.
The Iron Giant, whilst nowhere near being a perfect film, just whets my appetite more for The Incredibles. Brad Bird knows what he's doing and The Iron Giant's an impressive film. But I can only wonder at what wonders he could work with the magicians at Pixar.
Appleseed
#882 posted by cyBeAr [213.65.179.30] on 2004/11/21 07:39:33
Anime made all in 3d that starts with a battle scene with horrible music (at least in this context) that makes it impossible to be immersed and believe what's happening on the screen. When the first battle is over and soundtrack starts working with the film instead of against it you can actually start buying the animated world your shown although it doesn't stop the first half of the movie from being mostly crap and the soundtrack problem does come back in som more places. The last half of the film is better although it has it's share of crappy moments and clichés it's balanced out by some good action scenes featuring some nice mech designs, a quicker pace and at least slightly interesting story developments that the first half lacked.
Ghost In The Shell 2
#883 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/21 10:05:11
anyone seen it? opinions on looks/story?
I'm Going To See It
#884 posted by cyBeAr [213.65.179.30] on 2004/11/21 11:01:44
on saturday, both appleseed and gits 2 is part of the programme of the stockholm filmfestival that is taking place atm.
Ghost In The Shell 2
#885 posted by czg [81.191.30.166] on 2004/11/21 11:04:10
Some good visuals, but nowhere near as good as the original.
Story is your typical metaphysical etheric phantom japanese spirit nonsense that noone gives a fuck about.
Basicly I thought it was crap, with a few moments where you think 'kawaaiii prettyu'.
Movies
#886 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/11/21 14:39:11
Spongebob Square Pants The Movie TV shows rarely translate well to movies. The larger plots and random musical segments tend to run contrary to the feel of the original show. This movie is exactly like the tv show.
Coffee and Cigarettes Weird talking film which wasn't particularly deep. It's really funny, but not lol funny.
He He
#887 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.240] on 2004/11/21 17:30:48
Story is your typical metaphysical etheric phantom japanese spirit nonsense that noone gives a fuck about.
I am in 9000 percent agreement with that remark.
When the lead character at the ending declares her self a new being ready to seize whatever new opportunites the world has instore for her, I wanted to blow the world to smithereens just to wipe that stupid smile off her stupid face.
Czg
#888 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/21 22:01:04
Do you mean the movie is not as good as the original or the visuals are not as good as the original?
I thought the original movie was crap dressed in extremely gorgeous animation.
Cybear
#889 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/21 22:01:18
what's appleseed?
Doh
#890 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/21 22:03:48
ignore the last question, I just read the post above.
G0035536
#891 posted by czg [81.191.30.166] on 2004/11/22 02:21:35
I mean the entire movie is not as good as the original.
If you thought the story of the first one was bad, this one is a willion times worse.
Hello now we are in a simulation of someones mind in a simulation of the world and we are experiencing time as a simulation of ones soul's craving for a reality without simulation and basset hounds are an integral part of a metaphysical mirror of simulated simula.
Bleh? Why Am I Posting Here...
#892 posted by Bal [82.120.189.27] on 2004/11/23 10:03:52
Heh, I liked Ghost in the Shell 2, but I'm a huge fan of the first one (which is still find alot better). But I'm a sucker for "metaphysical etheric phantom japanese spirit nonsense", hehe. I thought the themes where quite different from the first movie, and Avalon (czg's last post looks more like a description of Avalon to me, hehe). But yeah, if you didn't like the first movie, there's little chance you'll like the second.
I saw House of Flying Daggers too recently, I really enjoyed it, but you have to imagine it as some kind of legendary tales (= lots of dramatic exageration), visuals are definatly great anyways, and some nice classix wuxia martial arts ideas.
Also saw Nobody Knows, really nice japanese movie about abandoned kids in Tokyo, if you really want to see what Tokyo looks like without going there, check this out. Quite sad movie tho, the kids did an incredible job acting.
Bleh, bear you bastard you watched Appleseed before me... Have to see it.
/me runs off yay!
Bal
#893 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.74.57] on 2004/11/23 13:43:02
House of Flying Daggers is out in your area already? Have you seen Banlieue 13, and if so is it good? I wanted to see both of those, but I'm not sure if Banlieue is my thing.
Uhm
#894 posted by Bal [82.120.189.27] on 2004/11/23 14:04:55
Banlieue 13 looks just plain stupid... =) Stupid french gangstah shit.
Agh
#895 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.74.57] on 2004/11/23 14:11:02
really? i saw a trailer for it, kinda looked neat. oh well, i'll wait til ong bak gets released.
Errata.
#896 posted by biff_debris [24.159.176.147] on 2004/11/23 18:54:08
Spongebob was funny, I thought. I mean, sure -- it was a kid's movie, but for that it was funny. Of course, I'm a big fan of lower-grade humor...
Finally saw Shrek2, which was good but didn't hit the same spot as the original. It was more of a congenial flick, not as wacky as the first.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch -- waiting on my region 1 uncut version of Ichi the Killer and Gozu to arrive (should be in by Monday). Ooh, Miike goodness.
Well...
#897 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2004/11/23 22:40:08
Avalon did it for me despite the lack of Basset Hounds.
GITS impressed me so much I was inspired to write a paper "Consciousness, AI and the Love that Dare not Speak Its Name." Yes, I was able to work a reference to goatse into a philosophical text. Probably won't see Innocence antil it's part of the 6 for $10 deal at the DVD hire place.
I was bored shitless during all but 12 seconds of Shrek2.
Looking to pick up Invader Zim Volumes 1-3 before the year is out... Doom, D'Doom, Doom!
Open Water...
#898 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/11/25 16:57:02
...was the worst movie I've seen this year. That is all.
Princess Mononoke
#899 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/26 08:28:01
as overrated as Spirited Away. By no means a bad film, but just an above average one with stunning animation.
Nitin
#900 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/11/26 09:01:24
Just one question:
What DO you like in a film?? What really gets you and appeals to you??
I ask this because I view you as Func_Q#TF's resident film critic and you certainly seem to opine on them with knowledge and passion - but sometimes I just think your taste is ass and can't make any sense of it...
Just Saw 'The Incredibles'
#901 posted by czg [81.191.30.166] on 2004/11/26 16:46:28
I thought I'd try not to describe it as 'incredible', but that's just what it is. Fucking awesome stuff.
Pixar øwns meh, Brad Bird (The Iron Giant) øwns meh.
That's What I Like About Living In NZ
#902 posted by Fat Controller [222.152.146.48] on 2004/11/26 19:05:55
Getting all the reviews off the net and all the tie-in products months before the movies themselves get released. You can opine knowledgably about 'em without ever having to see the movie at all.
Fuck Overrated.
#903 posted by metlslime [66.135.131.88] on 2004/11/26 19:36:31
'Overrated' isn't a criticism of a movie, it's a criticism of the people who talk about it.
I liked Spirited Away a lot more than Mononoke mainly becuase the story was more interesting to me. It's an Alice in Wonderland story and they did a good job with the wonderland. I'll agree with you, nitin, that neither are Great Films, but just because a movie has a bunch of slobbering fanboys doesn't make it any worse in my estimation.
Metlslime
#904 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/26 20:31:15
yeah, I generally agree with that statement.
Anyway, what I didnt like about both films (although it's more an issue with Mononoke than Spirited Away) was a very disjointed narrative that meandered along and ended up going on for far too long.
The Alice in Wonderland concept was realised very well in Spirited Away but it went for 2+ hours, running out of steam about a half our before the end.
Shambler
#905 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/26 20:41:12
I cant really pinpoint what exactly I like in a film but I guess I value a good script over anything else. By good, I dont mean that it necessarily has to be an original concept or quirky or innovative. It does, however, have to a fully realised cohesion of ideas rather than just a half baked concept which sounds cool when you write a summary about it. And good dialogue helps too.
Of course, if this is then joined with some nice visuals and/or acting, then we're getting somewhere.
but sometimes I just think your taste is ass and can't make any sense of it
Well, maybe it is :) I dont really have a particular genre etc that I really focus on, I just try to watch heaps of stuff and comment on what I like/dislike.
If it's any help, go through this list of stuff that I've seen and have, I've rated evrything out of four. I know ratings are not necessarily the best way, but it might help you to get an idea of what I do like.
http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
Just To Add To The Confusion
#906 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/26 20:55:37
I meant good performances rather than good acting in the second paragraph there. To explain that, Indiana Jones was a good performance even though it wouldnt count as good acting. Also, Raiders of the Lost Ark was a good script in my book.
I Robot And Infernal Affairs
#907 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/29 08:11:50
I Robot - above average sci fi blockbuster with some excellent CGI and action sequences. Alex Proyas's vision of the future is also one of the coolest ever implemented. Too bad it's all ruined completely by Will Smith and his black homeboy act. Oh, and it's nothing like Asimov's short stories so dont go in expecting that.
Infernal Affairs - classy hong kong crime thriller but a bit too overstylized. In the hands of someone who is less infatuated with visual pyrotechnics, this could have been a spectacular suspense film. As it stands, it's a cool, slick, well made genre film.
I, Robot = Total Trash
#908 posted by ProdigyXL [216.111.202.25] on 2004/11/29 13:39:31
I saw that movie a few months ago when it was released against my will and demanded my friend pay for the ticket afterwards. It isn't above average, it's below any form of standards.
The acting while mostly terrible was made even worse when Smith would bring out his inner "BLACK" when it was convienent. Such as the last line he says to the CPU thing... "Oh you gotta die!" with all his black attitude. The rest of the film he's just normal, but during key instances such as that he totally breaks character. ANNOYING.
The damn robot friend of theirs was able to emote more feeling than the entire real cast. PATHETIC.
Also how are we to expect thats what the world will be like in just 30 years or whatever. I mean they fucked so much with the original story why couldn't at least make the date a bit more believable? I don't expect to be seeing the Lake Michigan Landfill anytime soon, do you?
Avoid this movie.
My Couple Reviews
#909 posted by . [68.74.213.55] on 2004/11/29 13:47:14
+ Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind
Interesting concept but it reminded me alot of Vanilla Sky, although this is more cheeky in tone. I enjoyed Carrey's acting despite the fact that the friend I watched it with told me some parts of Jim's character, remind him of me. Anyway, this movie was hard to follow initially and I think it requires 2 or 3 viewings to completely understand. But it is worth a watch.
+ The Ladykillers
I was anxious to see Hanks in this and his acting was interesting... I just kept thinking of his acting in "Big" and how he's evolved from there. Most of the characters throughout provide the comic relief, but while I expected the movie to be funny enough to watch again, I didn't find that. Yet I'd still suggest to see it at least once. I think it has to grow on you.
I Robot.
#910 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2004/11/29 13:49:40
I really liked it.
#911 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.49.54] on 2004/11/29 14:24:58
Hellboy
Saw Hellboy. It was OK, some decent effects, no real sense of danger and the monster fights weren't very entertaining overall. Story didn't seem urgent or make me care.
Dawn of the Dead remake
Great movie. I thought everything was good. Unrated widescreen version. Good shit.
Dawn Of The Dead
#912 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.88] on 2004/11/29 14:58:21
One movie where I prefered the remake. Good scary stuff.
Prodigyxl
#913 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/29 21:18:29
Too bad it's all ruined completely by Will Smith and his black homeboy act.
Looks like we agree on the same point.
Oh, and it's nothing like Asimov's short stories so dont go in expecting that.
I read somewhere that the script was written before they tacked the name I, Robot onto it. I mean all it really has in common with the stories is a chracter called Calvin and the 3 laws.
Phait
#914 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/29 21:20:42
Eternal Sunshine is the best movie of 2004 so far, comparing it to Vanilla Sky is a sin. In fact, comparing any movie to Vanilla Sky is a crime.
I Didn't See, I, Robot
#915 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.223] on 2004/11/30 00:19:50
But Harlan Ellison once wrote an excellent adaptation of the stories. It sounds like they didn't use that version from the descriptions you guys give. Oh. well.
Nitin
#916 posted by . [68.74.213.55] on 2004/11/30 00:55:24
I love Vanilla Sky. I own the DVD. To each their own. But they do share similarities in that the characters are dealing with a sort of memory regression or erasing, thus my comparsion.
Ending Of Vanilla Sky...
#917 posted by Blitz [24.218.173.39] on 2004/11/30 01:17:46
Was pretty insulting in terms of artistic side of film making. In fact the ending felt incredibly out place.
Imagine if in a Fellini movie there was a scene at the end where a character (basically doing a commentary or voice over except inside the film) explains everything that just happened as to dumb it down to the worst possible level and destroy any kind of intepretation.
It seems like they had the movie done except for the last 10 minutes, where some test audience or studio exec said "What the hell is going on?! This movie will never see a release unless you put some kind of explanation in here!"
A very disappointing movie, especially coming from Crowe who has always done excellent work.
Blitz
#918 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/30 01:22:23
AFAIK, it was a shot for shot remake of Open Your Eyes (spanish film) so the ending as well as the rest of the film was taken from that.
But yes, it did definitely suck.
The Incredibles
#919 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/11/30 01:41:49
Pixar rocks. The chacters were three dimensional and the plot was entertaining and avoided cliches. Pixar's usual sense of humor is in there. Also includes a cartoon short before the feature sure to make you go wtf. Oh yeah, and the end credits are super stylin'.
I think mappers need watch this movie twice. Once for the enjoyment of the movie, and a second time paying attention to the set design. The world Pixar crafted comes alive and every single location feels like a real place. It's not just detail but variety while maintaining a consistency. Disney can buy a renderer as good as anyone else's, but I think designing the world is one place they'll never match Pixar.
I Cant Wait Till This Film Shows Up Here
#920 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/11/30 02:01:54
dec 26th is a long time away.
Vanilla Sky
#921 posted by starbuck [129.215.13.83] on 2004/11/30 06:41:39
personally I find the acting far inferior to the original, and maybe even a little insulting, in that they took an excellent spanish film and copied it, replacing the actors with hollywood stars, and upping the budget. You can almost see the studio execs planning it out; setting the movie in a more expensive location and closing off times square, getting much more expensive cars than in the original, etc, and thinking that'd make a better film.
Still, i'm surprised anyone could have such a negative opinion of this, it's not a great movie, but its certainly not bad. I'd definitely recommend 'Open Your Eyes' though.
TEECCCHHHHH SSSUPPPPOOORRTTTTT
#922 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.49.54] on 2004/11/30 08:10:50
:P
Enrico
#923 posted by GÜVEN [81.214.28.171] on 2004/12/01 16:40:29
Hey millet Enrio Morricone'nin mp3'ünü bulabileceðim bir adres bilen var mý???
Ah,
#924 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.245] on 2004/12/01 20:09:31
The Ecstasy of Gold ~~ All Inspiring
More Stuff
#925 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/12/02 08:01:34
In the Mood for Love - Wow, this was a really good film, with brilliant music and visuals. I now have to check out mr stuff by Wong Kar Wai.
Key Largo - I think someone suggested this before, maybe pjw, anyway I didnt care for it too much. The script was average and didnt really give Bogart or Bacall too much to work with like The Big Sleep did.
Harry Potter 3 - Having not read the books, I enjoyed the first film and didnt care much at all for the second. Saw this because of the change of director and it definitely brings a beter mood and visual style to the franchise. There are some really cool touches in this film. But, the narrative is an absolute mess and I didnt end really end up liking this all that much.
Key Largo
#926 posted by pjw [63.236.226.222] on 2004/12/02 13:46:20
Yeah, that was me. I enjoyed it quite a bit, but yeah, you're certainly correct that it isn't in the same league as The Big Sleep or Casablance or whatever.
Star Trek
#927 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.49.54] on 2004/12/02 23:06:16
Fucking sucks my fucking thick member. Good day.
Garden State
#928 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/12/03 01:28:31
not bad, reasonably funny film that's let down by a crap ending. Also, the main lead's performance (he's on a show called Scrubs) is medicore, could have been a really good film with a better actor.
Natalie Portman on the other hand shows off a bit of the talent she showed in her pre Star Wars days.
In The Mood For Love And WKW
#929 posted by Bal [82.120.187.17] on 2004/12/03 14:26:58
I'm a big Wong Kar Wai fan, love tha atmosphere he gets in his movies, and I really like the actors he works with (Tony Leung, Maggie Cheung and co.) In the Mood for Love is most certainly his best film...
I'd recommend seeing Chungking Express if you liked it, and if you also liked that one, you'll probably enjoy his others.
I was a bit dissapointed by his newest film, 2046, it kinda felt like he was just trying to do more of ITMFL. It has some very good scenes tho, and great acting.
Hey Bal
#930 posted by nitin [138.217.2.9] on 2004/12/03 20:56:06
thanks, I'll try those out first. The atmosphere was what impressed me too, the combination of visuals and music was almost perfect.
I was reading up on some of his stuff and it seemed that all his films before ITMFL were of a different style? Is that true? Also, have you seen Fallen Angels, what's that like?
I just put the following on order :
2046
chungking express
house of flying daggers
oldboy
WKW And More...
#931 posted by Bal [82.124.238.123] on 2004/12/04 08:10:31
Hmm, all of his films are actually quite similar where film making is concerned, the visual style itself changes though.
Fallen Angels is pretty good, guess its like some artsy HK action film...
By the way, if you want more visualy stunning asian cinema, I'd recommend you check out stuff from the vietnamese director Anh Hung Tran (movies like Cyclo, or his most popular, The Scent of Green Papaya) or chinese mainland director Hsiao-hsien Hou (I watched Goodbye South, Goodbye recently and quite liked it.)
But be warned that I enjoy films even if the plot is rather uninteresting, as long as the visuals are good. =)
Oh and Oldboy is awesome, be prepared to be slightly disgusted tho. =)
Obligatory Response
#932 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/12/04 08:35:38
...I enjoy films even if the plot is rather uninteresting, as long as the visuals are good. =)
Porn?
Heh
#933 posted by Bal [82.124.238.123] on 2004/12/04 09:23:40
Sorry to disapoint you RPG, that isn't what I meant by good visuals. =)
Why?
#934 posted by starbuck [129.215.16.39] on 2004/12/04 20:31:04
are you asexual?
Thanks Bal
#935 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/04 21:08:50
I'll see what I can get my hands on.
BAL
#936 posted by Scampie [68.117.129.117] on 2004/12/04 23:20:26
come back to us :(
Old Trailers
#937 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.49.54] on 2004/12/05 20:31:57
But I thought I'd post them anyway.
http://www.apple.com/trailers/inde...
http://www.apple.com/trailers/inde...
Supah Mutah Virus!
#938 posted by czg [195.204.39.141] on 2004/12/06 05:59:54
http://games.slashdot.org/games/04...
Haha
#939 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/12/06 09:03:12
One character is a technician called "Pinky" who has a cybernetic wheelchair thanks to a bad teleporting accident. Pinky later mutates into something remotely resembling a creature from Doom 3.
Well at least they know how to make a good comedy.
House Of The Flying Daggers
#940 posted by Jago [81.197.201.94] on 2004/12/07 01:32:48
Just watched it, thanks to a recommendation seen in this thread :) WOW, it was *DAMN GOOD*. A first movie in quite a while that has managed to bring a tear to my eye. I am a fan of the genre, but this once really excels in many areas. The fights/jumps/etc aren't as over the top as in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Nice enviroments and camerawork and boy does Hollywood have a thing or two to learn from the Chinese about shooting passionate kisses.
...
#941 posted by necros [142.150.107.94] on 2004/12/07 12:35:20
Bio Force Gun
hahahahaha
My Precious
#942 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/09 01:36:38
I have the ROTK:EE in my hands now but wont be able to watch before saturday night. I cant wait to see this given the quality of the previous two EE's.
Top 5 80's
#943 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.49.54] on 2004/12/10 16:24:11
1.) Gremlins 2
2.) The Goonies
3.) Gremlins
4.) Big Trouble in Little China
5.) Hmmm probably had something else to put here, but forgot what it was.
#5 Was Probably UHF
#944 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/12/10 16:48:41
.
Nitin:
#945 posted by necros [66.185.84.74] on 2004/12/10 18:32:38
it rocks.
80's
#946 posted by Auhsan [80.58.41.44] on 2004/12/10 18:58:44
You forgot The Princess Bride...
80's
#947 posted by Auhsan [80.58.41.44] on 2004/12/10 18:59:10
You forgot The Princess Bride...
Gaaaaaaaaah
#948 posted by Auhsan [80.58.41.44] on 2004/12/10 19:00:20
first post in ages and I make a doble post...
me dies of shame.
Riddick
#949 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/10 20:16:04
saw this at a friends last night and didnt even make it the whole way through. Way too many effects and someone was on acid while shooting the action scenes. The strobe lighting and relentless chopping made it hard to tell what the fuck was going on.
Production design stuff was pretyy good though, even though it was ripped straight from Dune or Coriolis Storm.
Top 10 80's
#950 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/10 20:23:15
1 - Raiders of the Lost Ark
2 - Empire Strikes Back
3 - Raging Bull
4 - Die Hard
5 - Aliens
6 - Blade Runner
7 - Back to The Future
8 - Das Boot
9 - Scarface
10 - Ran
Top 5?
#951 posted by metlslime [64.124.188.211] on 2004/12/10 20:25:14
on what criteria?
Good List
#952 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.127] on 2004/12/10 20:31:27
I would substitute Fast Times for Back to the Future, Terminator for Aliens, and Empire of the Sun for Raiders of the Lost Ark.
And no Porkies, Police Academy, Revenge of the Nerds or movies with Ron Jeremy in them? How representative of the 80's could it really be?
Headthump
#953 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/10 20:36:37
Raiders of the Lost ark cant be substituted in my books :)
There were others that could have snuck on to that list too : Platoon, IJ & the Last Crusade, The King of Comedy, This is Spinal Tap, and Blue Velvet.
Yeap.
#954 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.127] on 2004/12/10 20:44:11
It would be impossible to take it off the list, but I have always considered EOS his most underrated film (but then I am a JG Ballard fan too).
I notice we haven't even touched on the great schlock horror flicks of that time; Amityville, NightMare on Elm Street, etc.
PS. when I was a kid, I got to mess around the Blue Velvet set because it was being made locally. The ear prop was really cool to touch.
Did You Get To Ask
#955 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/10 20:55:02
dennis hopper what he was on when he was performing as frank booth? That has to be one of the evilest performances ever.
I Did See Him
#956 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.127] on 2004/12/10 20:57:31
and I do believe he was own something
That Was An Amazing Performance
#957 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.230] on 2004/12/10 21:08:40
he gave. He nailed that character dead on with that jive talk that was sort of Jazzy and Honky Tonk at the same time.
Actually
#958 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.49.54] on 2004/12/10 22:49:15
The #5 slot on my list was Short Circuit 1 or 2, either one. BTW, it's based on simple zaniness, not actual quality. Just good simple mindless fun!
Chungking Express
#959 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/10 22:55:41
just finished watching this and although it has some nice bits, it didnt really work for me. In the Mood For Love was a much superior film.
The heavy stylish touches on display here severely distract from the actual film and on the whole this actually seems like a lot of random footage was shot and then spliced together to make a movie.
Top 5
#960 posted by Blitz [66.31.112.116] on 2004/12/10 23:09:46
Top 5 Best of the 80s
1. Shinning
2. Full Metal Jacket
3. Salvador
4. Elephant Man
5. Rainman
Top 5 'Fun' 80s movies
1. Ferris Bueller's Day Off
2. Big
3. Say Anything (how can you make lists without giving props to someone who wrote for the magazine that is most famous for writing useless lists)
4. Revenge of the Nerds
5. Indiana Jones & the Last Crusade (my favorite of them all)
Eh Maybe #6....
#961 posted by . [68.255.59.15] on 2004/12/11 00:27:42
Goonies. C'mon, fun to be a kid.
L'appartement
#962 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/11 21:13:44
just saw this 1996 french film with Vincent Cassel and the extremely hot Monica Bellucci, I think there's a recent american remake called Wicker Park. Anyway, it's an outstanding film with a clever plot and effortless direction. And I wonder if the remake will keep the same ending given the Hollywood Way of upbeat conclusions.
RotK:EE
#963 posted by Kinn [81.155.131.180] on 2004/12/12 12:39:14
First a disclaimer - I am a massive fan of the LotR theatrical versions. Easily my favourite films of all time, and they will most likely remain that way.
Also, I can seperate my enjoyment of the films completely from that of the books (which I have read once, when very young, so my memory of them isn't that great).
Thus, I judge these films on their own merits, and not on how accurately they duplicate the text of the book.
======== MASSIVE SPOILERS =========
That said, I was a bit dissapointed with the EE cut of RotK. I felt that the new additions were a real mixed bag; most of them I'd rate as mediocre, with a couple of outstanding moments, and a couple of downright bloody awful moments.
First of all, the downright bloody awful:
Gimli's antics during the drinking game, and the similar stupid crap he did at the beginning of the extended Paths of the Dead sequence. The PotD additions were uniformly shite in fact - the avalanche of skulls was just bizarre and the arrival of the Corsairs was equally rubbish. It also killed the surprise of the Dead Army revealing themselves later at the Pelennor.
Another scene I hated was when Denethor was giving Faramir a bollocking for letting Frodo go, and then we get a stupidly cheesy bit where he looks over Faramir's shoulder and sees a ghostly vision of Boromir. I felt that John Noble's acting in this scene was a bit shoddy as well; perhaps they only did a couple of takes of this one.
Another bit I hated was the alternate take of the Gandalf-Merry "Deep breath before the plunge" scene. WTF was up with Gandalf's coughing fit? I mean WTF!?
The outstanding bits:
The one single great moment that stuck out in my mind was at the aftermath of the Pelennor battle, when Eomer finds his sister's seemingly lifeless body. Karl Urban's performance here along with the cinematography amounted to one of the most emotionally powerful moments of the film. Combine this with the following sequence in the Houses of Healing, and then the subsequent re-edited scene where Pippin finds Merry on the battlefield (this time at night!) and you have a moment which really, really had no right to be cut from the theatrical version.
(I guess you could argue that to make the Eomer-Eowyn scene work you had to show the HoH bit as well, so that the audience knows she's not actually dead after all, and that this would slow the film down too much at this point. It's worth it though, IMO).
The mediocre:
Well, as for the rest of it, I can pretty much take it or leave it. Saruman's scene was a pretty good scene in it's own right, but I don't think the theatrical version suffered from it's absence. If anything, Saruman's fate should have been dealt with at the end of TTT, but I'm not sure how exactly.
Or maybe the Smeagol-Deagol prologue should have been left out entirely from the theatrical version (it was originally intended to slot into the TTT Dead Marshes scene) - this would have freed up some time for the inclusion of the Saruman scene in the TE.
Similarly, the Gandalf-Witch King confrontation was a cool scene, but it felt a little tacked on.
Gothmog's death was pretty cool, and gave closure to a major bad guy, and although the build up to it was a little comical, with him groaning and lurching towards Eowyn, I'd probably have liked to have seen it in the TE.
Aragorn confronting Sauron in the Palantir before the march on the Black Gates felt a little off IMO, and I'm glad it was cut.
I could go on really, giving a breakdown of all the new bits, and how I felt about them, but, meh. The odd new battle shot here and there was cool, especially the smaller battering rams stuff before Grond. The extended Grond bit felt a bit silly though.
Just for the record, I feel similarly towards the EEs for the other two films. I can quite happily take them or leave them; the theatrical editions will always be the definitive version of LotR for me.
#964 posted by Kell [82.41.8.22] on 2004/12/12 13:20:08
WTF was up with Gandalf's coughing fit?
He smokes teh weed.
Kampfansage
#965 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.49.54] on 2004/12/12 14:35:21
Trailer
http://www.kampfansage.com/downloa...
Clips
http://www.kampfansage.com/downloa...
Have You Seen The Trailer
#966 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.241] on 2004/12/12 15:04:04
to Willy Wonka?
Depp looks like a, uhm, errr, how to put this ... a chick.
Willy Wonka
#967 posted by Kinn [81.155.131.180] on 2004/12/12 15:25:15
And Depp sounds like a 16-yr old goth schoolgirl brat - especially when he goes "eww!"
But if there's anyone that can make this film worthwhile, it's Depp :)
Lol, You Hit The Nail There
#968 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.241] on 2004/12/12 15:38:10
he is obviously having fun making the flick.
I can't wait to see Keith Richards as his poppa in Pirates of the Caribean 2.
Still Havent Got To Watch ROTK : EE
#969 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/12 19:03:51
but I thought the other two EE's were much better than the theatrical cuts. They just flowed a lot smoother. TTT in particular benefited a lot from the EE.
And Johnny Depp
#970 posted by nitin [138.217.4.99] on 2004/12/12 19:04:37
is an absolute gun, if Willy wonka sucks, there's a veru good chance it wont be because of him.
Salo : 120 Days Of Sodom
#971 posted by pope [207.216.236.96] on 2004/12/19 02:44:33
Directed by
Pier Paolo Pasolini
Wow... just... wow... I don't really know what to say about this movie. It made my uncomfortable, it cleared out half of the theatre during the 3rd act.
I don't think I can recommend anyone except the extremely curious go watch this film. Not that it is a bad movie, it's VERY true to the original text (by Marquis De Sade) except for it being set in WW2 italy.
the Basic story premise is 4 friends ( 2 brothers) of powerful status in society round up 16 youths (including their own daughters, whom they marry off to each other), boys and girls, who are taken away to their villa. Then over the course of 2 hours they act out any and all perversions that they feel like. It starts with sex, and quickly turns into something else. Apparently this is all social commentary on fascism and anti consumerism by Pasolini... I can't really say.
In an ironic twist however Pasolini himself was murdered 1 week after the release of this film by a Male prostitute which he frequented.
The film was also banned in the UK for over 25 years, and probably in alot of other places.
This is a hard movie to watch, so bring a date.
Salo
#972 posted by Kinn [81.155.131.180] on 2004/12/19 08:00:33
Why do I keep hearing about this? Is it being re-released in cinemas or something? Anyway, shit-eating and eyeball-slitting isn't really my cup of cha, if you know what I mean, so I'll probably give this one a miss.
Revenous
#973 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/12/19 18:59:52
Pope set out to watch a movie centred on one taboo I picked a movie centred on another: canibalism. Ravenous isn't a Texas Chainsaw style slasher and is more entertaining for it. The music is good and is downright innapropriate at times which serves to add the the discomfort while watching some scenes. Also, I would recommend you don't watch this film if you're a little hungry. I did and I ended up feeling a little guilty over it.
Anyways, good movie.
Very Long Engagement
#974 posted by nitin [138.217.15.7] on 2004/12/19 21:17:55
anyone seen it? what's it like?
Rotk:EE (spoilers)
#975 posted by nitin [138.217.12.150] on 2004/12/20 22:40:41
finally got around to seeing the enitre thing. First impression is that it wasnt as good as the previous EE's. FOTR:EE smoothed out the flow of the theatrical and the film was better for it. TTT:EE was the best one because I thought the theatrical cut was severely lacking and the EE fixed it up.
This one adds a few good scenes, but a lot of it seems like fluff (in a movie that already contained quite a few moments of cheese in between a lot of greatness). I would have added only the extended fight scenes, saruman's scene, the extended scene in the dead city (I liked the skull fall), the gandalf-witch king confrontation, the mouth of sauron scene and the aragorn-palantir scene. The rest didnt add much. The House of healing scene was ok, but was as poor in establishing the eowyn-faramir scenario as the theatrical was.
Still, I'm glad i watched it and maybe it works better on repeat viewings.
Collateral
#976 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/22 08:58:28
The last 15 minutes were a letdown and the overall script could have been better but its a well made and reasonably well acted film. Stylish action and cinematography.
7.5/10
I Did See Saw
#977 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2004/12/22 19:37:57
So you saw Saw you say?
It was a shakey cam. The funney thing is that the colour shift the process causes was apropriate to the film.
All I can say is that the amount of time left in the film was proportional to how much sense it was making. In a good suspence movie you don't know the ending before it happens, but when it does happen you feel like you could have seen it comming. No body could have seen the ending of Saw comming. I bet the writer didn't see it comming either. He probably got fucked up on cocaine, went on a writing binge, and when he came to was shocked at the ending he had written and submitted.
Lady From Shanghai
#978 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/24 01:28:34
Clunky, muddled film from Orson Welles. Maybe the hour that was cut out by studio execs could have redeemed this but in its current form, it is a bit of a stinker. Welles is miscast and the film seems to change tone every 5 minutes for no real reason.
The only reason to see this through was Rita Hayworth. I know whe was a WWII pinup etc but I hadnt seen her apart from in photos. What a stunner! Every time she's on screen, it's hard to take you eyes off her. Pity about the film though.
Incredibles And Other Stuff
#979 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/28 05:40:58
[b]The Incredibles[/b] - Very good, only it whets my appetite for what Pixar can do when they break off from Disney. Their best film since Toy Story (the others were good too but these 2 are my favorites).
[b]The 39 Steps[/b] - Good early Hitchcok film, very reminiscent of the later North by Northwest but noas spectacular. Its a very good film in its own right though, and quite funny too.
[b]Bourne supremacy[/b] - pretty good action flick, let down by frenetic editing in two key action scenes which looked like (from what was possible) that they were actually decently staged. I prefer bourne identity but this is still not bad.
[b]The Lady Vanishes[/b] - another good early hitch film that starts off more a comedy than a mystery but gradually moves along with his signature direction. Some of the dialog is hilarious.
[b]The Postman Always Rings Twice[/b] - good noir film thats more of a romance than a crime film with romance. Still, its pretty good although the first half seems to be in slow burn while the second whistles past too quick.
[b]This Gun For Hire[/b] - Low level early film noir. Above average script coupled with avergae direction and some average to above average performances. Not bad, but hardly the best noir film goign around. Veronica Lake does look very pretty though.
Shawn Of The Dead
#980 posted by ProdigyXL [216.111.202.25] on 2004/12/28 14:52:31
Was fucking awesome. I haven't seen a movie great in such a long time. Gonna pick up a copy sometime this week for myself, a buddy of mine rented it and we're both gonna buy it. It was funny, it was a comedy, a horror flick, and drama all at once and worked so remarkably well. Great stuff, diffenently one of the tops for the year.
Lord Of The Rings: ROTK EE
#981 posted by Scampie [66.231.199.15] on 2004/12/28 17:19:05
Loved it. every part that was added I loved...
Spoilers, I guess, here on in.
...except I have mixed feelings on Saruman being killed on top of his tower rather than the original film being closer to the book and leaving him there for all eternity. (In the book he later escapes and is killed in much the same way as in EE, but that's besides the point). But I like how it made the seeing orb (can't remember it's correct name) make sense being in the water... alot of the additions made me happy this way, making things make more sense.
My fave addition was The Mouth of Sauron, which confuses me why it was cut, since it was excellant.
Now I need to get the EE of the first two films, which I missed. Hope those are as cool as this.
Scampie
#982 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/28 19:41:38
IMHO the first two films have betetr EE:s, especially TTT (though FOTR was almost perfect in the theatrical anyway).
LOTR
#983 posted by Kinn [81.138.30.1] on 2004/12/29 05:35:07
Yes, I felt that the EE's of the first two films generally worked better than the ROTK EE, despite suffering from the same pacing problems (there's a reason we don't see the EE's in the cinema, and it's not just because of the running time). Although I hated Fellowship's extended Hobbiton intro, which was pants IMO.
I Disagree In TTT Case
#984 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/29 06:21:36
because I thought the theatrical felt disjointed and not very smooth. The EE fixed that up.
Continuing The Film Noir Marathon
#985 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/30 04:04:55
Gilda - Had to see this after being gobsmacked by Rita Hayworth in Lady From Shanghai. On its own, it's a decent low level noir film which would have been better with a better ending and an actor like Bogart in Glenn Ford's role. Still, it provides for further gobsmacking as Rita Hayworth looks absolutely stunning. And she knows she looks absolutely stunning. That combination makes it a breeze to sit through the film.
The Killers - Saw the 1946 version with Burt Lancaster and Ava Gardner. This is a damn fine hard edged noir film, just the way they should be. Whilst nothing that comes afterwards matches the sheer brilliance of the opening, its a very well made and engrossing film that would have to be one of the masterpieces of the genre.
Post Topic: I Thought It Would Suck, But It Didn't
#986 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/12/30 08:43:35
I saw Finding Nemo last night. I honestly wasn't expecting much, but it turned out to be an amusing and entertaining film.
I also watched The Butterfly Effect (the DC, not theatrical version). I have vague remembrances of people saying it sucked, but I rather thought it was good. But people were probably talking about the theatrical version, which apparently had more of a Hollywood ending to it. From the descriptions I've heard of the theatrical ending, the DC ending really makes a lot more sense and fits in better with the movie. But then again, I'm a sucker for introspective films, so I'm apt to liking this one.
Rpg
#987 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/30 09:21:29
can I ask why you thought it would suck?
Just interested.
Pixar Movies Have A Habit Of Seeming Like They Will Suck
#988 posted by tron [220.244.224.105] on 2004/12/30 10:19:55
Pixar movies for me have a habit of looking like they are going to disapoint me by sucking badly, when I originally heard the premise for Monsters Inc. I thought it sounded crap, saw the trailers, got interested, went to see it and loved it. Same with Finding Nemo. And while I haven't seen the Incredibles yet I fully intend to in the next few days as the trailers have convinced me that it might actually be a good film. :)
I think it is just an aversion to some of the stinkers Disney has put out over the last few years. While I know that Pixar only makes good films, I see the Disney logo on the first teaser trailers and it sends me into a cold sweat.
Nitin
#989 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/12/30 11:13:40
I assume you're refering to Nemo.
Quite frankly the premise didn't sound interesting to me. I mean, a fish swimming through the ocean looking for his lost son? It sounds like a boring story and boring visuals.
And people had mentioned that they thought it was funny, but not as funny as other Pixar works. My sense of humor is rather warped--and comedies that are supposed to be "uproariously funny" tend to only hold one or two laughs for me--so I figured I wouldn't find it amusing at all.
So by this point I'm thinking, boring story, boring visuals, unfunny--why bother?
Except, of course, I was wrong.
And On A Side Note
#990 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/12/30 11:15:36
I want to see The Incredibles when it comes out on DVD, as that looks like it will be amusing, too. (See? It's not that I'm not interested in kid's movies; I'm just not interested in kid's movies that I'm not interested in. Make sense?)
The Butterfly Effect
#991 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2004/12/30 12:17:56
i can't understand how people would think it sucked. I mean, I know it stars Ashton Kutcher, but the general premise is so good that the film couldn't easily be crap.
I got the feeling that there was a lot of unrealised potential that could have propelled it into being really brilliant, but most areas lack the 'magic' as it were. The overall effect is very good, but it could have been a whole lot better.
RPG, I understand exactly what you mean about not being too excited about finding nemo before seeing it. I also often get that with pixar movies, and then i'm proved wrong, The Incredibles for example was really enjoyable. I didn't really like Bugs Life or Monsters Inc. though (apart from when Mike is famous; on the cover of the magasine but under the barcode, hilarious :)).
The Butterfly Effect
#992 posted by Bal [83.199.65.35] on 2004/12/30 19:13:56
I thought it was pretty average, most notably cause of giant paradoxes in the whole time traveling shizat (can't remember in detail, but theres something about the prison scene that doesnt work, won't go into detail not to spoil tho).
I'd be curious to know what's different in the ending of the DC, cause the ending I saw sucked, instead of explaining the movie it just made it into something stupid.
Rpg
#993 posted by nitin [138.217.13.123] on 2004/12/30 19:55:44
fair enough, i was just wondering.
Bal
#994 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2004/12/31 10:24:12
I've been thinking about the movie quite a bit since I saw it, and, actually, I was surprised at how few paradoxes there are. Thinking back on that specific scene, I can't remember any paradoxes there, either. If you think of one you'd like to share, I'd like to know it.
SPOILERS JUST FOR BAL ABOUT THE DC
I'm not sure where the two movies start diverging, but in the DC, he ends up in the sanitarium after going back in time and watching Kayleigh get blown up in her dad's basement. He asks for his journals, but he had used the first entry to go back in time, and he's told he never wrote any journals. He asks his mom to bring him some old home movies that his dad made, and uses one of them to go back in time to when he was still in his mother's womb, where he strangles himself on his own umbilical cord. Cue scenes of his mother screaming "no, not again", flashbacks of the psychic saying he had no lifeline and was not meant to be born, and flashforwards of everyone growing up with perfectly normal and happy lives.
END OF SPOILERS
So, err, IMO that works a whole lot better than what I've read about the other ending.
Lemony Snicket's Overly Wordy Title
#995 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2005/01/01 23:18:43
The acting was great, the writing ranged from ok to great, but the visual design was friggin fantastic. It was consistent, creative, and attractive. If you watch the movie remember to stay for the credits at the end, they're gorgeous.
This was Jim Carrey's second second great performance this year.
RPG
#996 posted by Bal [83.199.80.152] on 2005/01/02 07:01:41
MORE SPOILAGE FOR RPG AHEAD!
Ah yeah, the DC ending sounds a bit better, to be honest I can't quite remember what happens in the original after he locks himself up with the movies... But I think its a happy ending with him surviving.
My prob with the prison scene: he uses a journal to make some scars appear on his flesh by going back to his moms kitchen and hacking away at himself with a knife, to make it look like he is getting holy stigmata or some such shit. Prob is, it's presented as if the scars just appear all of a sudden to the other people in the prison, when in fact for them the scars should have always been there in the first place... no? So why the hell are they surprised. Bleh. There were some other things like that but I can't quite remember anymore, they aren't really paradoxes, just badly exploited time travel stuff.
Bal
#997 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2005/01/02 12:52:20
Ah yeah I see. Indeed, that is insonsitant with the way time travel works in the movie.
Stephen King's "It"
#998 posted by . [68.74.217.49] on 2005/01/03 16:07:29
I have the DVD and was browsing IMDB about it... and, if you remember the character Beverly Marsh... the actress was probably just 12 then...
http://www.angelfire.com/mi/carrie...
http://horrortalk.com/reviews/IT/b...
But now?!
-> http://i.imdb.com/Photos/HH/067393...
Wow...
Er, If That IMDB Link Doesn't Work...
#999 posted by . [68.74.217.49] on 2005/01/03 16:08:25
There's always http://www.emilyperkins.com
#1000 posted by Scampie [63.236.226.222] on 2005/01/04 20:35:19
...what are you trying to point out? that she grew up?
The Incredibles
#1001 posted by cyBeAr [213.66.231.130] on 2005/01/05 16:51:11
Was indeed.... incredible!
My only complaint would be that the killer machine v.10 didn't get to play longer than it did in the big city.
White Noise
#1002 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.141] on 2005/01/07 12:11:43
The trailer didn't look promising but it was free so I decided to watch it anyways and I'm actually glad I did. I can sympathize with whoever was charged with making an interesting trailer, I'm pretty sure I couldn't do it. White Noise is a horror flick without being a slasher, which is refreshing. It attacks the genre from a new angle of EVP (http://dawghouse.topcities.com/ev... EVP is obviously interference but all horror films require a leap of faith like that.
The movie is all around a great horror film but there was one thing in particular that captured my attention. At one point the movie comes to a setting of a rather modern looking apartment with a wall of glass windows and a waterfall directly beneath. The waterfall creates a white-noise sound which is a cool little reminder. Shots with the glass window often have out-of-focus (and thus faceless) people walking and going about their business. It's obviously a reminder of the transient ghosts they're contacting. Clever design like that makes me happy.
Bleh
#1003 posted by . [68.74.217.49] on 2005/01/08 05:12:21
Cheese of the year http://www.hideandseekthemovie.com...
Faux Wide Screen
#1004 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.141] on 2005/01/28 10:14:12
All of MGM's 'theatrical wide screen' DVD releases for the last few years have been the pan-scanned versions with the top and bottoms cut off.
http://mgmdvdsettlement.com/
That's a really shitty thing to do to movie fans. There's an eligible dvd list on the site and the claims procedure.
I Saw A Film...
#1005 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2005/01/28 11:52:03
House Of Flying Daggers
(Bear in mind I haven't seen CT,HD nor Hero).
Weak. A vacuous shell of a potentially great movie. Stylistically it was good, although few parts were as aesthetically striking as the bamboo forest. The OTT action scenes were good and entertaining too. However, the pontentially gripping storyline was wasted and badly executed. The basic story itself was, as a basic story, very good, BUT the way it was presented was so banal and crude (the explanation just after they are both captured at the house, for example), with simple, child-like dialogue, that it's potential was wasted. This could have been a very slickly presented intriguing medieval Japanase love-story-cum-intellectual-thrill... with a captivating focus on duplicity, betrayal, secrets, love between warring factions. But disappointingly, it wasn't, in the slightest.
Meet The Fockers
#1006 posted by pope [207.216.232.150] on 2005/01/28 20:44:34
better than meet the parents. A straight up good laugh if you like embarassing sex jokes.
good movie to watch w/ a girl (but not her parents)
for a sequel, i was more than happy with it.
:D
#1007 posted by Vondur [85.140.31.103] on 2005/01/28 23:06:02
Gayniggers from the outer space!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt027451...
http://www.gnaa.com
Er
#1008 posted by Vondur [85.140.31.103] on 2005/01/28 23:06:29
http://www.gnaa.us
#1009 posted by Scampie [66.191.120.173] on 2005/01/30 11:35:16
http://imdb.com/title/tt0374020/
Scampie
#1010 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2005/01/30 12:38:00
If by linking that you intend to let us know that the movie is perhaps the most intellectually insulting thing ever made in Flash, then I'd have to agree with you.
Scampie
#1011 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.230.101] on 2005/01/30 12:38:55
If by linking that you meant to imply that the movie is perhaps the most intellectually insulting thing ever made in Flash, then I'd have to agree with you.
Movies
#1012 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/04 20:41:28
Sky Captain - Nice fun film with a very cool style. I love the look of the film, the retro fell is excellently exceuted. If it had few more spectacular atcion sequences or set pieces it could have been great, but as it stands it's still a pretty fun film.
Also saw Double Indemnity which has a dynamite script, especially the dialog. I love a good script and this is an almost perfect one (I still rate Chinatown as the benchmark). The performances are good too. The DVD is horrible though, there better be a newer release of this soon.
Sky Captain..
#1013 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2005/02/05 01:06:27
Was pissed I missed that in the cinemas, looked like it would be, as you say, good fun on the big screen. Just not that inspired for the DVD =/
Shambler
#1014 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/05 02:49:48
I just got the dvd today, the quality is amazing so if you have access to a big screen and a decent sound system, it will still get the same feeling across.
Movies...
#1015 posted by Bal [83.199.17.217] on 2005/02/05 07:30:05
Haven't posted here in a while...
Howl's Moving Castle - Well, if you liked other Miyazaki movies, this one is definatly recomended, not his best, but very very enjoyable like most of his movies. Great art, great animation, fun characters.
I loved it obviously... ^_____^
Kung Fu Hustle - Newest Stephen Chow movies, lots of very exagerated silly martial arts with funky techniques and stupid characters. Good entertainement, especially if you like his other movies (Shaolin Soccer, God of Cookery, etc). The CGI is a bit weak at times, but didn't really bother me so much.
Dead Leaves - This is some crazy 50 minute animation video that was released on dvd a while back, lots of violence and sex, some very cool animation and funky designs. (kinda has an american animation style going). Very fun, just don't watch this with your kids. =)
Oh and one of the characters has a giant drill instead of a penis... ¬_¬
Alexander - Hmmm, this movie really didn't do much to me, I didn't love it, and didn't hate it... Never really got too bored during the 3 hours, but wasn't so excited either. Probably more believable than stuff like Troy, but maybe not quite as entertaining.
Angelina Jolies role in this is actually pretty cool.
Oh and the views of Babylon are pretty impressive, some good brushwork there. =)
Danny the Dog (called Unleashed in the US) - Got invited for the premiere of this, Jet Li was in the theatre and all, yay. Probably his best occidental movie (which isn't too hard considering all his hollywood movies are utter shite). Some stylish action and nice atmosphere (cool music by Massive Attack). Only recommended to people who like martial arts movies I guess.
Jolie In Alexander
#1016 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/05 08:12:34
only seen the trailer but she sounds like she has a transalvanian accent or something. I sthat how it is for the whole film?
#1017 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.43.29] on 2005/02/05 09:25:04
kung fu hustle - i saw the trailer of this and laughed so hard at the slow-mo scene of the two people kicking that guy's face full force. I wanna see it, good to know it doesn't suck.
Also wanted to see Dead Leaves and Howl.
Futurama Volumes 1 - 4
#1018 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.43.29] on 2005/02/08 20:17:18
Got my DVDs of Futurama today, and while technically not a film, I'll be watching this a lot over the next week or two. One of the best cartoons ever made IMO.
I Started To Get Into The Family Guy
#1019 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.208] on 2005/02/08 20:43:12
after watching the DVD set released last fall. Pretty wicked comedy. Funny, when it ran five years ago, I completely ignored the series, but then again I use to have a life way back when.
If you are a fan of the Venture Brother's, did you see how the series ended? Let me, give you a hint. Easy Rider. Though the kids were wearing an American Flag helmet and a New Orleans Saints helmet like Jack and Peter in the movie during most of the show, I did not see THAT coming, wow.
Futurama
#1020 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/09 00:20:34
very very funny for the first 2 seasons, I didnt really like it after that. But those first two seasons are viewable so many times.
Oh
#1021 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/09 00:21:46
and I just got my hand on my friend's Astroboy DVD set, brings back some cool memories.
thats the 80's version, not the crappy new version.
Hey, Did You Get Choked Up
#1022 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.39] on 2005/02/09 07:21:47
while watching the episode where the lead protagonist discovers his brother named a son after him, and they played the Simple Minds toon from The Breakfast Club as they panned out.
Bwwaaaaa -- I cried like a wee girl.
I Cried
#1023 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.43.29] on 2005/02/09 12:04:54
on the Futurama episode where Fry tries to clone his dog from the 1990s and then decides not to, but at the end they show his dog waiting for him to get back. Seriously, I cried. It was sad. :(
I Haven't Seen That One
#1024 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.81] on 2005/02/09 12:29:55
but no doubt, I would have been sobbing away too.
Charade
#1025 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/12 19:11:40
Charade - Good but harldy great light thriller that apes Hitchcock at every opportunity. However, it lacks the clever humor and setpieces that Hitch employed in most his successful films. Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn dont really click as well as they should and some of the dialogue's a bit spotty rather than being witty.
Still, the direction's decent and pulls the strings nicely so its worth a see.
Ray
#1026 posted by . [68.74.215.170] on 2005/02/12 23:23:02
Good movie, good acting by Foxx, but a bit long winded with all the performances. Maybe a little more story to Ray's growing up and immediate family.
Watched the extended version. A recommended movie though, I read they got so many things right.
Blah
#1027 posted by Bal [83.199.69.130] on 2005/02/13 04:26:17
Appleseed (2004) - Hmmm, cool animation and designs, music felt out of place during most of the movie (despite there being some good tunes). Story and characteres could have been developed a bit more, I guess I mostly enjoyed it for all the giant mecha and explosions... ¬__¬
La Marche de l'Empereur - This is a documentary movie about emperor penguins, very nicely made, great images. Some of the stuff they filmed is pretty amazing, and must of been hell to achieve (had to live through crazy blizzards and all). The story of the penguins itself is great, very sad at times (dying children cause of the cold and lack of food and stuff). Definatly recommended for people who have the slightest interests in animal documentaries. Unfortunatly I doubt it'll be released in theatres outside of France, and probably isn't as amazing on a smaller screen
Evangelion
#1028 posted by PuLSaR [80.80.111.129] on 2005/02/13 08:32:05
is the best that I watched this year
Nitin:
#1029 posted by metlslime [66.135.131.101] on 2005/02/13 15:16:12
hmm, I actually like Charade, and would say it's better than To Catch A Theif, which has the same sort of thiller/comedy hybrid. I admit that there are a few exchanges between Grant and Hepburn that seem forced or badly written, but overall I liked it. Especially for some of the amusing supporting characters, like Walter Matthau and Jacques Marin.
I guess I agree with you in that it's not as good as Hitchcock's best, like Rear Window, but that's a pure thriller and so it's going to be more thrilling.
Metl
#1030 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/13 22:24:01
I was thinking more North by Northwest than Rear Window.
Also, I actually preferred To Catch a Thief. I just found the writing funnier although admittedly Charade's much better in the thriller department. Overall, I liked Charade too.
Jules And Jim
#1031 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/18 22:03:51
My first real taste of european cinema apart from the recent bunch of popular french films and Run Lola Run.
It was certainly very different and the first half was definitely quite excellent. But after halfway, the story just seems to plod along and the characters lost my empathy. The music was great as was the direction but IMHO the script was sevrely lacking in the second half.
2046
#1032 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/19 20:04:55
I've just finished watching the new film by Wong Kar Wai and I would add this film to my list now. Brilliant combination of visuals and music to create a mysterious and enchanting mood. It has its flaws as the script looks as if it was unfinished but the direction and acting are great.
2045 Bis
#1033 posted by Bal [83.199.66.40] on 2005/02/20 04:21:21
Nitin, there was no script... Or rather, there was, but WKW is always changing stuff at the last minute, or just improvising completely, which explains why the flow can seem a bit strange at times in his films.
Bal
#1034 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/20 04:24:02
yeah I realise that but in comparison, ITMFL still seemed more cohesive and felt like a script. But I still liked 2046 a lot.
Hmm
#1035 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/02/20 08:30:36
Too bad Netflix doesn't seem to have it.
RPG
#1036 posted by Bal [83.199.66.40] on 2005/02/20 09:25:52
Netflix have many asian films at all??
2046
#1037 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/20 12:52:10
well I dont think there's been a US theatrical release yet, so there wont be a R1 DVD for a while. I imported mined from Asia.
Bal
#1038 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/02/20 13:27:17
Yeah! They have Jackie Chan's Shanghai Noon!
But seriously, they have more anime series than I care to watch. Perhaps a better example is that they have Vampire Hunter D, but not Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust.
I was actually a little surprised they didn't have 2046 since you all seem to think it was good, but since nitin says there hasn't been an R1 release, that would explain it.
Furthermore, I'm a bit disappointed they don't have the movie Stalker based on the Strugatskys' novel. That's a movie I definitely want to see, but I'm not sure I want to spend $45 and buy it from Amazon.
RPG
#1039 posted by Bal [83.199.66.40] on 2005/02/20 14:19:26
I'm sure there are plenty of very good asian films they don't have. =)
Do they even have In the Mood for Love, and did you see it?
I'm Sure There Are Plenty Of Very Good U.S. Films They Don't Have
#1040 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/02/20 15:33:03
Yes, they have it. No, I have not seen it.
Well...
#1041 posted by Bal [83.199.66.40] on 2005/02/20 15:47:51
If you had the sligthest interest in seeing 2046, just get ITMFL for now instead, its really the same kind of film (except better in my opinion)...
Oh, and if you don't like ITMFL, chances are you won't like 2046 either.
Hey...
#1042 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.61.6] on 2005/02/20 15:56:25
there's nothing wrong with Shanghai Noon... I find it very entertaining and enjoyable. The sequel is even better. Can't wait for Ong Bak to come out on DVD. And it's rumored Tony Jaa and Jackie Chan are gonna do a movie together - spooge.
And More
#1043 posted by nitin [138.217.7.78] on 2005/02/25 07:01:23
Playtime - Not hilarious, but always amusing french film. The extended restuarant sequence is very well handled. But the most striking aspect has to be the extremelly well composed shots, the use of space is the best I've seen since I viewed Kurosawa's Ran.
House Of Flying Daggers
#1044 posted by nitin [138.217.6.51] on 2005/02/26 18:16:15
Looks nice with one or two nice fights, like the bamboo forest scene, but the screenplay is an utter mess. The story and characters are not good enough to merit the ponderous visual style.
#1045 posted by Vigil [85.76.1.41] on 2005/02/27 10:17:51
Strugatskys' novel
Read it, by any chance?
Vigil
#1046 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/02/27 10:20:27
No, I haven't. I might be able to find it at the uni library. Maybe I'll look for it.
#1047 posted by Vigil [85.76.1.41] on 2005/02/27 10:42:33
Definitely recommend it. Part of the enjoyment comes from the fact that nobody knows what has happened exactly, they just see the results. Light reading, unlike some Russian works.
And there's supposedly an RPG coming out, based on the book.
Vigil
#1048 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/02/27 11:44:13
Well isn't the game Stalker based on that book a bit?
Stalker Book
#1049 posted by PuLSaR [62.33.48.20] on 2005/02/27 15:56:16
I read it. It's great. Once I started to read it I couldn't get out of it.
Chapter 3 was the most awesome, especialy the scene where they treat zombie-father as a real man.
I haven't seen the movie, but it's old and I'm not sure that it is good. I think reading the book is much more intertaining.
Winter Light
#1050 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/04 23:28:47
saw this ingmar bergman film last night and was completely blown away by it. It's about as structurally perfect as a film could be and when you combine that with the excellent performances and the extremely understated yet very compelling tone, it's hard not to be impressed.
Haute Tension (Switchblade Romance)
#1051 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/05 07:40:31
hmm, I'm no horror buff but this french film is one of the most stylish, taut and efficient horror/slasher movies that I have come across. Its shot extremely well, acted quite well, and is reasonably intelligently plotted.
BUT, it has one of the most ridiculous third acts ever. If it finished up 15 mins before its actual running time, the paragraph above would be all that you would need to say. But the 'twist' is so bullshit that it completely degrades the quality of what preceded it. This is a perfect example of how an otherwise fine film completely implodes due to a badly written ending.
And More
#1052 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/09 04:54:30
M Hulot's Holiday - Not a fan of slapstick but after enjoying Playtime, I thought I should give the other Tati films a go. Didnt do much to change my opinion of slapstick, though it's a pleasant time passer. The score is outstanding though.
Doom Movie More Bleh
#1053 posted by . [68.74.214.198] on 2005/03/10 02:46:02
http://www.bereitsgesehen.de/doomb...
Where's the chunky green armor?!
Bleh?
#1054 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2005/03/10 07:04:48
Bleh!
That's Doom? Why doesn't it look anything like Doom?
Doom: The Movie
#1055 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/03/10 11:11:38
Starring The Rock as Doom Guy.
Why do I get the impression that this is going to be a cross between Duke Nukem and Aliens?
Apone: You secure that shit, Doom Guy!
Doom Guy: I'm gonna rip off your head and shit down your neck!
: The Movie
#1056 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.141] on 2005/03/10 12:11:34
I'm dying to see it if only to see where The Rock inserts his armor shards.
It's Doom The Movie
#1057 posted by pope [216.232.209.40] on 2005/03/10 14:50:08
not Doom3, so clearly there will have to be SPECTRAL ARMOR and Health potions!!
Wow
#1058 posted by starbuck [129.215.13.83] on 2005/03/10 18:14:07
apparently hollywood has a near-monopoly on things that suck. I've only seen that one publicity shot for Doom: the Movie but BAM! i'm disappointed already.
Maybe they're just not wearing their pretty green armour in that shot, maybe we'll see it in the film. Heh, probably not though, black sweaters are much cheaper i guess.
I remember when this came up last time; didn't we read some info which said the marines wouldn't be fighting demons in the movie, and that it wasnt on phobos or mars? I think that means there is now nothing in common between the game and the movie.
Seriously, Doom was about a lone armour clad marine taking on the legion of hell in a research base on a moon of mars. The movie will stay true to the original vision by giving us a squad of ex-wrestlers taking on aliens on a made up planet. That's only based on what little i've read in the past though, so it may not be accurate. I really hope all that stuff isnt true.
Pickup On South Street
#1059 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/10 22:46:01
Some good bits but the overall script is spotty and some of the acting is even spottier. It definitely looks like a top level noir but comes out as a low level one IMHO.
Jesus,
#1060 posted by necros [69.193.222.114] on 2005/03/10 22:56:44
why does that look so unbelievably cheesy, ffs.
Le Doome
#1061 posted by Vigil [85.76.1.41] on 2005/03/10 23:21:06
Set on some research facility. No demons, no Hell, no Phobos, just some horrid virus that's turning people into monsters.
Verdict:
#1062 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2005/03/10 23:35:24
Doom movie will suck for sure...
So...
#1063 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2005/03/11 01:57:14
...why is it called the Doom movie again? And can't whoever owns the rights and the name (id or their publishers) crack down on their ass for misusing it??
Once They Sell The Rights
#1064 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/11 02:32:24
they really dont care unless they specifically want to get involved in the movie production.
Well...
#1065 posted by mwh [195.92.198.71] on 2005/03/11 03:54:12
surely the value of "the doom brand" has *some* value to id? Perhaps not enough to be worth making a fuss here.
Doom
#1066 posted by Kinn [81.178.51.25] on 2005/03/11 05:12:06
Apparently, the religious overtones (Demons/Hell etc.) were seen as too unsuitable for the target PG-13 rating, so it was changed to "A Virus". Graphic murder and gun violence is still ok for the kids though, it seems.
Da Fuck?
#1067 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2005/03/11 07:44:53
Have they really changed it that much? What a fucking HEAP OF SHIT.
CUNTS.
#1068 posted by starbuck [129.215.13.84] on 2005/03/11 08:18:23
Apparently, the religious overtones (Demons/Hell etc.) were seen as too unsuitable for the target PG-13 rating
whoa, what the fuck. A Target PG-13 rating?! Oh my god. Makes so much sense, I mean that is Doom's target audience, is it not? Children too young to play Doom 3, and who were still pissing their pants when the original doom came out.
That said, i just read this comment by someone on imdb.com:
"The Rock was on the Daily Show with John Stewart last night and told everyone that he would be starring in the Doom movie." ... "He did state that the movie would be rated R and not PG-13 as some websites have stated (thank God!!) and that the BFG weapon would be in the flick but is referred to as a "Bio-Force Gun"....funny."
So maybe it is rated R, if so, great! But er, the Bio-Force Gun? Anyway, it says on the imdb page that they named fome characters after the id guys, namely Dr Steve Willits and Dr Carmack, which is cool, but the better way to show respect for the id guys would be to not remove their creative vision from the movie en-fucking-tirely.
I'm looking forward to seeing the character called pinky though ¬_¬
So...
#1069 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/03/11 08:39:55
Set on some research facility. No demons, no Hell, no Phobos, just some horrid virus that's turning people into monsters.
So basically this is Resident Evil in Space? Not only have they ruined the concept but now it's a derivative of every other zombie story ever made?
Chunking Express
#1070 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/03/11 23:05:44
In continuing with the fine tradition of pretending to be cool by taking part in Asian culture, I've just watched Chunking Express. Its a nice enough film, but it really didn't do anything for me.
Chungking Express
#1071 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/11 23:13:20
didnt do much for me either, the heavy stylish touches on display severely distracted from the actual film and on the whole it seemed too much like random footage spliced together.
Also, just finished Before Sunrise and Before Sunset. Both are fine films but while most of it is reasonably well scripted, some of the dialogue jars with the rest because it sounds scripted as opposed to the conversational tone that's employed in the rest of the film(s). Still, both are good views.
#1072 posted by Vigil [85.76.1.41] on 2005/03/12 00:42:14
So basically this is Resident Evil in Space? Not only have they ruined the concept but now it's a derivative of every other zombie story ever made?
That's basically the idea I got from reading a few previews.
Confused
#1073 posted by tiffany [203.54.159.45] on 2005/03/12 03:13:04
hi i dont really get what this is about at all this is the first time ive been on this site plz help im confused??
Tiffany...
#1074 posted by DaZ [80.43.75.222] on 2005/03/12 07:32:41
This is FUNC_MSGBOARD the best place in the universe omg!!!!!!!!!!!111eleven!!111one11!...
additional : I am the MOST HELPFUL person in the universe omg!!!!!!!!!!!111eleven!!111one11!...
Eleven?
#1075 posted by Shambler [82.38.194.13] on 2005/03/12 07:50:29
@ Tiffany
#1076 posted by pjw [66.188.97.226] on 2005/03/12 11:27:59
On the miniscule chance that you are not simply an alt-nick of one of the regular mouth-breathers:
func_msgboard is a site that mostly revolves around making user-created levels for the Quake series of games, although there are various other types of discussions going on at any given time as well. Welcome. Also "please" is spelled "please".
On the other hand, it's almost certain that this is some clownboat regular, so if so, then I hope you get anally violated by a hobo for wasting the previous few seconds of my life.
Uhuh
#1077 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2005/03/12 15:03:37
show respect for the id guys would be to not remove their creative vision from the movie
I think calling it a creative vision is giving them a little too much credit. Let's face it, the Doom and Quake series are more a collection of ad-hoc shit that seemeed cool at the time.
Hey Tiffany
#1078 posted by Blitz [24.218.169.151] on 2005/03/12 21:02:32
I think we're alone now/There doesn't seem to be anyone around
Australian IP Address
#1079 posted by Blitz [24.218.169.151] on 2005/03/12 21:05:26
This is the work of Zombie/Black Dog/PeeJ/distrans et. al
Peej?
#1080 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.248] on 2005/03/13 04:49:12
But Peej is in the UK...
#1081 posted by Vigil [85.76.1.41] on 2005/03/13 04:51:54
But Peej is in the UK...
Or is he?
And More
#1082 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/13 16:52:02
Three Colours - Blue - This is very good, some of the visuals are very haunting and memorable and the themes are very well communicated to the viewer. Well worth watching.
His Girl Friday - Good film, but after a while the manic delivery and acting coupled with the extremely loud and overlapping dialogue started to make my head hurt. Still, theres some good wit on display and its well worth a watch.
Nitin...
#1083 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2005/03/13 17:14:37
...Three colours in general. what did you think of the "series." Are they all worth watching, or just Blue?
Distrans
#1084 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/13 17:52:15
havent made it to red and white yet, I'll post once I get to them.
Three Colors...
#1085 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/03/15 11:16:36
I think i liked white best.
Three Movies...
#1086 posted by Bal [83.199.83.123] on 2005/03/16 02:17:10
Constantine - Stupid, but fairly amusing I guess. Some ok visuals and ideas, Hell looks cool, but I was dissapointed there was only really one kind of demon, too bad. Ending was not quite as stupid as I was excpecting. Oh, and Keanu still doesn't know how to act, also, the movie just kinda feels like a long anti-smoking ad.
Beyond the Clouds - Gorgeous anime movie, the backgrounds and visuals here are just so fresh and nice, that alone was enough to make me enjoy it. Otherwise it's some strange (duh, its japanese) sci-fi-ish drama, with a touch of fantasy... the story doesn't make all that much sense, especially during the end, but the characters are ok.
Trouble - Some french movie released here recently, I have trouble deciding if I like it or hate it. The story is pretty interesting, some good psychological thriller ideas... Directing was badly overdone at times tho, some anoying shackycam, and too much zooming on the characters faces all the time, oh and the music sucks horrendously, really unoriginal and predictable classical stuff.
Re; Constantine
#1087 posted by pjw [63.236.226.222] on 2005/03/16 07:51:16
I seem to have enjoyed this a lot more than you did. Don't get me wrong--it's not OMGAWESOME or anything, but I thought it was quite good.
I was initially horrified when I heard that Keanu was cast as John Constantine and figured he would screw it up beyond all recognition, but I thought he actually did a pretty decent job in the role.
Maybe my opinion is just a bit rose-colored due to the movie being decent and entertaining as opposed to the steaming pile of shit I was expecting, but I liked it.
Pjw
#1088 posted by Bal [83.199.83.123] on 2005/03/16 08:46:31
Oh yeah, it was better than what I was expecting too, and I enjoyed it, just would'nt see it again or easily recommend it to people. =)
I really didn't think Keanu was any good, just his usual self... (which, fortunatly, didn't fit too bad with the character). His opening and closing his lighter all the time kind of anoyed me too, wonder how many times he accidently sent that thing flying across the stage during filming, hehe, bet he wounded some people with it.
Der Untergang
#1089 posted by czg [81.191.27.124] on 2005/03/18 13:31:59
You know, that Hitler movie.
http://imdb.com/title/tt0363163/
I thought I remembered someone mentioned it in this thread, but I've been scrolling through 300 posts here now and not found anything.
Anyway, awesome film. Powerful.
Top notch acting, fantastic directing, completely heart-wrenching story. Wonderful account of the physical brutality of WW2 and the mental breakdown of those behind it. Very highly recommended.
...
(And although it feels really wrong to even think about the movie in this context: There's a lot of sexy uniforms in it.)
Cool
#1090 posted by voodoochopstiks [85.224.212.202] on 2005/03/18 13:35:35
I agree wholeheartedly with you about constantine pjw, and I agree with Bal about hell being very cool. I guess I'll go watch der untergang at the movies sometime.
Cool
#1091 posted by voodoochopstiks [85.224.212.202] on 2005/03/18 13:35:41
I agree wholeheartedly with you about constantine pjw, and I agree with Bal about hell being very cool. I guess I'll go watch der untergang at the movies sometime.
#1092 posted by voodoochopstiks [85.224.212.202] on 2005/03/18 13:36:40
shit, sorry for double post mates
More Stuff
#1093 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/03/20 23:55:19
Machurian Candidate (2004) - I saw this last night too and have to say that this was an average movie at best. I have seen the original, so unfortunately comparisons had to be made. Whilst the new version was efficient, the old one kills it in comparison.
Three Colors White - Not as good as blue but still a fine film. Lacks the memorable scenes and visuals that Blue had and the overall script's weak. The acting's pretty good though and that coupled with the efficient direction make it worth watching.
Breathless (godard) - Pretty good although it hardly comes across as innovative now. Still, the direction's pretty assured and the whole thing has a definite sense of cool about it. Hope there's a better dvd release of it soon though.
AvP - yes I guess I'm a sucker for punishment and yes its bad but its not awful. It's actually slow paced for a Paul WS Anderson film with a decent buildup. What it lacks is any characters that are even 2% interesting and decent fight scenes. The ones that are there are in near darkness with 500 cuts a minute applied to them. YOu see shome green stuff spurt there and some blades flashing somewhere else but it's hard to really know whats going on.
And the updated alien queen moves like a t-rex from jurassic park.
I Recently Caught AvP On DVD
#1094 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.143] on 2005/03/22 21:57:11
It was pure LCD -- Lowest Common Denominator. Not an interesting idea, character or fight in the entire movie. Better, more original and newer material could have been found in John Campbell's rejection pile for Astounding Magazine in the 1950's but Hollywood is fixated on a very narrow spectrum when Science Fiction is concerned.
I really disliked this movie.
More
#1095 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/08 22:45:29
three colours red - very very good, as good as blue if not better. Performances are excellent and the script is well executed. Also sports the best use of color out of the trilogy IMHO.
The Philadelphia Story - started off quite well with some good witty dialogue. But the further along it went, the scacer the witty repartee became and I didnt think that the rest of the story was convincing enough. Performances were good, espcially Hepburn and Stewart, although I'm at a loss to explain why James Stewart got an oscar for this and not for some of his other more better roles.
Also
#1096 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/08 22:46:28
anyone seen Sin City? it's been delayed for release in Australia till august and I've been wanting to catch it ever since I saw the trailer.
Same Here
#1097 posted by Fat Controller [222.153.184.42] on 2005/04/09 01:35:08
Got the download through the UJ forums. Sometimes it sucks living in the future, because by the time the movie screens here, the tie-ins have already crawled up everybody's ass and died...
if they're lucky.
Fattey
#1098 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/09 03:21:21
yeah, there's a good chance the US dvd version will be out by the time the movie gets out here.
Brrr
#1099 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.201] on 2005/04/09 09:49:25
Sometimes it sucks living in the future,
You Oceanians with your hover cars, shiny jumpsuits, robot wives and your thirty meter tall ganja acreage.
Damn cursant present!
Sin City
#1100 posted by metlslime [67.113.29.6] on 2005/04/09 18:13:12
overall i liked it. Ive never read the comics, though I was aware of them. At times i thought this would become an empty excerise in style, like Moulin Rogue, but it managed to have a decent story to tell. Reminds me more of kill bill in the sense that it's the latest iteration of ever-slicker regurgitations of pop culture -- in this case comics and film noir. I liked clive owen's story the least; the other two were for the most part solidly entertaining. Visually a success.
Sin City
#1101 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.38.168] on 2005/04/09 21:49:00
Saw it day after it came out. Loved it.
I think it had everything, all types of action scenes, love scenes, foul-mouothed 70 year old heroes, all types of stuff. All around wonderful, a great film. Don't take it too seriously though, it will ruin the film for you. It's really good. Partially because I'm drunk, partially because it was a great movie, but it was a great movie. Honestly. 5 thumbs up.
Re:
#1102 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.145] on 2005/04/10 14:22:15
Partially because I'm drunk, partially because it was a great movie, but it was a great movie. Honestly. 5 thumbs up.
Whoa. I've never been so drunk that I saw double-and-a-half, but I was drunk enough to type this:
<RPG> da fekj tgat najes no sense.
P.S. I went to see Sin City and it had an interesting style but the stories didn't seem all that special or like they had any meaning so I guess I'm a philistine.
Spiderman 2
#1103 posted by . [68.255.59.201] on 2005/04/10 14:31:50
I thought it was done as well as the first (i.e. worthwhile to watch), except it seemed it was missing something throughout the Doc Oc action span... unfortunately I can't remember what it was I thought was missing. Either way theres more character development.
Thomas Haden Church is playing a villain in Spiderman 3. He could be The Lizard or Sandman... I believe The Green Goblin will return (different person obviously) (or is it the Hobgoblin, whats the diff?) and I don't see why Man-Wolf will make an appearance (John Jameson from 2nd movie.)
I also felt the Doc Oc surgery-room scene was very intense for PG-13. No gore, but rather terrifying for what it was - but that's the Sam Raimi touch.
Eh I Meant
#1104 posted by . [68.255.59.201] on 2005/04/10 14:32:51
"I don't see why Man-wolf WOULDN'T make an appearance"...
[EDIT] <-button
Phait
#1105 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/11 01:46:02
maybe because he'll be in spidey 4.
Edit Button...
#1106 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/04/11 14:34:54
use the damn preview button, then you won't need an edit button.
Edit Button...
#1107 posted by . [68.255.59.201] on 2005/04/11 15:01:08
I prefer a damn edit button, then I won't need a preview button.
Edit Button Is For Losers.
#1108 posted by Bal [81.249.64.157] on 2005/04/11 15:17:08
I saw Robots couple days ago, really liked all the mechanical stuff, some cool visuals and ideas. Story was fairly typical and predictable though.
<Vondur> Sarcasm = Laughing Hitler
#1109 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.145] on 2005/04/11 17:27:09
Story was fairly typical and predictable though.
That's a problem with the viewer's intellect and not the movie's script, though.
Recent Viewings..
#1110 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/04/11 19:09:15
saw SinCity on the weekend, since I have read through the graphic novels and enjoyed those I was more than pleased with how true they were to the scenes/style/dialogue. I was also quite pleased with the stories they selected. The 'Marv' story was probably my favourite from the comics themselves, so I was happy to see that one.
Other recent viewings have been 'Toxic Avenger' and 'Class of Nuke 'Em High 2' both from Troma studios. ...if you haven't seen a troma film before, you should. But you should get drunk/high/in a stupid mood before you do! Hah, they are the epitome of incorrect. Considering most of the production/cast/costumes are provided by fans/volunteers..it makes for...interesting cinematography...
Id Software/Doom Movie...
#1111 posted by . [68.255.59.201] on 2005/04/15 00:11:13
Dunno if you read PlanetDOOM much but they mentioned this:
http://www.cgonline.com/content/vi...
"The film industry trade publication Variety announced today that Showtime plans to make a bio-pic movie based on Masters of Doom, the 2003 released non-fiction book on the formation of Doom developer id Software."
So who's takin' the lead as Carmack? Romero? Heh... this reminds me of that biopic on Microsoft that was for TV...
Totally Inappropriate Choices
#1112 posted by Blitz [24.218.169.151] on 2005/04/15 00:19:49
John Carmack -- Vin Diesel
Adrian Carmack -- Bob Balaban
John Romero -- Cher
Tom Hall -- Haley Joel Osment
the rest of the cast will be midgets, like the Wizard of Oz.
On a side note, my mom knew one of the midgets from the Wizard of Oz when she lived in South Boston. Apparently the guy had been in quite a few things, and could be found doing such regular person things as shopping at the supermarket, taking a dump, and dragging a sack of kittens into a burning building.
Anto Doom Movie Petition
#1113 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2005/04/15 01:31:17
Sign Up !!!
http://www.petitiononline.com/dmov...
At least we can claim this movie must change in order to match Doom concept....
More
#1114 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/15 03:21:13
Witness for the Prosecution - classy film. If there's one thing Billy Widler could do, it was write dialogue. Although not in the same class as Sunset Boulevard or Double indemntiy, it still has some sparkling exchanges.
The Royal Tenebaums - Also quite classy. It's more of a comedy/rama but the funny moments are well built up and the drama by itself is quite well done. The attention to detail and shooting style is also outstanding.
Constantine
#1115 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2005/04/15 03:34:29
Ok so I finally saw this. I wouldn't normally bother to comment, but I read it's other reviews in this thread, and I seem to hate this film so much more than the other guys that saw it.
I think my main complaint with this movie is that the script seems to have been written by a load of 14 year old boys. I also get the feeling that the boys aren't keeping up to the times, because they obviously missed the memo that told them that smoking isn't that cool any more. I think approximately 30-40% of the movie was dedicated to Keanu:
(A) Lighting a cigarette
(B) Smoking a cigarette
(C) Dropping a cigarette in slow motion
(D) Putting out his cigarette in his own blood, no really.
(E) Being told by people that he shouldn't smoke.
Other things that only 14 year old boys think are cool include:
... Weapons covered in crosses
... Erm, including a knuckleduster with one on each knuckle
... Having Constantine be an asshole to everyone to make him 'darker'
... Trapping demons in mirrors. Mirrors are just shiny things, get over it.
I don't know how explain what a huge pile of steaming cliched feces this is. Don't start thinking that it might be so bad it's good either, like Rambo or something. Here, the cliches are all the ones you hate.
We've got one of my favourites, the bit where a female character says some line like "leave it to the men? oh hell naw!", designed to appeal to the feminists. Actually thats less of a favourite, more of something that makes me punch the person next to me in the neck.
We've got the classic snivelling kid who wants to be the hero's partner, but he only lets him do something basic, in this case driving a taxi. In this case, the kid is played by that asshole from Holes, and near the end he saves John Constantine and starts being useful. Surprise, surprise.
All this said, there are some great moments. I think my favourite is where Constantine has to do a spell or some shit, so he sits on a chair holding a cat, and puts his feet in a tupperware box full of water. The water is there to lubricate the transition between the planes of Hell and Earth by the way. I defy you not to laugh when he does that, it's amazing.
All in all, a great movie, and well worth seeing. Two thumbs up my ass!
Starbuck Never Fails To Disappoint.
#1116 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.145] on 2005/04/15 10:42:30
No, really!
Starbuck
#1117 posted by [Jimbo] [64.203.165.126] on 2005/04/19 07:05:50
managed to capture the essence of Constantine in his short review.
Constantine
#1118 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2005/04/20 02:13:27
If this film is like Starbuck discribed it, for sure I will not go to see it.. It seems to suck a lot !
More
#1119 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/23 02:01:37
Nelly and Mr Arnaud - Pretty good french film by Claude Sautet with the stunning Emanuelle Beart. Not much plot but the acting and script are well done.
La Notte - Very good film by Michaelangelo Antoinini (Blow-Up) with well pitched performances from Jeanne Moreau and Marcello Mastroianni as a married couple with no emotions for each other. The framing in this film is also the best I've seen since my viewing of Playtime. Also features a cameo from the very hot Monica Vitti.
Repulsion - Another awesome film from Roman Polanski's early days. Has the same eerie and unsettling atmoshpere that was displayed in Rosemary's Baby and an excellent turn from Catherine Deneuve as a woman who is sexually repressed and has some very strange halucinations. The Direction is also outstanding.
Crossifre - Very good noir film with a nice script and good performances. Not up there with the greatest noirs but definitely close.
Nitin
#1120 posted by Blitz [24.218.169.151] on 2005/04/23 04:14:32
You rock. Seriously, one day when I get some free time, I'm gonna compile a list of all the movies you liked that sound interesting to me and seek them out. You seem to put a good deal of thought and effort into your evaluations, so I just wanted to say thanks for reccomending some of the more obscure films to those of us who don't have the time or the education on that sort of thing. Cheers.
Blitz
#1121 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/23 05:01:00
no problem, although I'd hardly call the comments thought out.
Also
#1122 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/23 05:04:28
this might be more helpful, if you ever want make a list :
http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
That ones without ratings I havent got around to seeing yet.
Withnail And I
#1123 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.145] on 2005/04/23 07:58:09
The eminently quotable film that probably has more than a few parallels with the amateur game development scene, and failed to grab my interest or evoke more than a couple of grins. Good movie, I just didn't like it.
Spike Lee
#1124 posted by megaman [141.26.16.2] on 2005/04/23 08:17:30
hm, 25th hour is one of my personal favorites, does anyone know of any other movies of the same brilliance by spike lee ? movies listed at imdb dont ring a bell.
Do The Right Thing
#1125 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/23 08:45:08
is supposed to be his best, havent seen it though.
Spike Lee
#1126 posted by Blitz [24.218.169.151] on 2005/04/23 17:54:06
Do the Right Thing -- it is quite good...the one thing about it though is that it leaves a lot of unanswered questions in terms of what it brings up during the course of it. Great performances all around.
Bamboozled -- OK. The first half was really promising, but it starts to get a bit dilluted. The whole movie is like that "Black People Love Us" webpage. You'll see what I mean :D It's along the same lines as Do The Right Thing in that it brings up alot of tough questions, and doesn't resolve them in any definite way.
Let's See,
#1127 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.46] on 2005/04/23 18:56:32
I have seen a fair number of Spike Lee movies. Here are my general assessments. If I get any titles screwed up, it is because I haven't seen these flicks in a long time.
School Daze -- I don't like musicals nor marching bands but some of the numbers were pretty catchy. Probably some of his smartest dialog on matters of inter-racial conflict.
She's Gotta Have It -- where as marching bands and musicals don't do it for me, sexually aggressive black women -- I like. The male characters were a bit iritating, either too whiny or too control freakish.
Do The Right Thing -- Over rated. The conflict was completely manufactured and the dialog of whiteys was not realistic. Burn a place down because the owner had pictures of Italians and not blacks? Get the fuck out of here, that is just stupid.
Jungle Fever -- Kind'a boring, except for the sex scenes and even there it ain't Cinemax or Showtime.
Crooklyn -- He filmed his sister nekad. How twisted! I don't remember much about the movie, however, except his sister's titties.
He Got Game -- A movie I liked better than most critics did. Paints a pretty corrupt portrait of Collegiate Athletic programs, and Denzel is excellent in this one. His first anti-hero role, I believe.
Get On The Bus -- my personal favorite. It reads like a swan song for the Civil Rights movement; it's sentimentalist vision is quite moving here and the late Ossie Davis was memorable.
Summer of Sam -- great idea (and title) for a movie, just not well executed.
I Just Downloaded
#1128 posted by Fat Controller [222.153.95.190] on 2005/04/24 00:01:12
a VCD version of Ed Wood Jr.'s Plan 9 From Outer Space from alt.binaries.monter-movies.
(And no, I have not misspelled the group name.)
Yea verily, I am fucked in the head.
What Do You Mean?
#1129 posted by pjw [24.177.115.31] on 2005/04/24 11:15:02
Plan 9 is a true classic of American Film. I admire your taste.
Lovecraft Is Rolling In His Grave...
#1130 posted by jsHcK [69.198.128.221] on 2005/04/25 09:49:43
I was watching Re-Animator yesterday when a friend pointed this out to me...
http://www.re-penetrator.com/
I doubt HPL would approve of this.
#1131 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.37.63] on 2005/04/25 12:18:04
Someone underground comic label is coming out with a series "Army of Darkness vs The Reanimator." Just thought you'd like to know they're finally combining to of the most class artworks cinema has to offer into one glorious amalgam of orgasm and chainsaws.
JsHcK
#1132 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2005/04/26 01:11:33
A new film genre is born: it can be called X-Gore... it's like Hell's blood Demons having a sex party... bbrrrrr....
Thanks
#1133 posted by megaman [213.6.36.113] on 2005/04/26 08:57:32
for the spike lee info!
Doom Movie Trading Cards
#1134 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/04/28 13:37:12
http://previews.diamondcomics.com/...
START COLLECTING NOW KIDS!
ps I'll trade you 4 scientists for 1 sarge
#1135 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.37.63] on 2005/04/28 14:34:28
Throw in a Turbo Turkey Puncher 3 foil card and you got a deal.
TTP3 Rulez...
#1136 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2005/04/28 23:44:08
I'm looking for a film (French?) that consists of long still frames shot from a train. I believe the camera never moves (in itself) but the train does, when the train moves the doors to the carriage (boxcar?) are closed and when the train stops the doors open.
Ring any bells?
Hitchiker's Guide To The Galaxy
#1137 posted by Scampie [24.180.188.166] on 2005/04/29 21:42:42
...was fucking awesome :)
Didn't go in expecting it to be perfect, holy, and true to the books, just that it'd be funny and has stunning visuals and I wasn't disappointed at all.
Animation Show
#1138 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2005/04/29 22:41:21
http://www.animationshow.com/
It's a little festival of animations making a tour of arthouses. Check the trailer and act quick if you want to see it.
HHGTTG
#1139 posted by Kinn [81.152.112.94] on 2005/04/30 05:20:16
...was fucking awesome :)
I hope I feel the same. I've read some pretty horrible reviews for it (it's not doing too well on Rottentomatoes atm :( ), and I really wanted this film to kick arse.
More Stuff
#1140 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/04/30 20:42:28
Fallen Angel - Caught up on a few Otto Preminger films and this was the first one. It started off well but lost its way afte about halfway not really knowing how norish it wanted to be.
Whirlpool - A total misfire from Preminger, the plot is very hard to take seriously. If it werent for the hot Gene Tierney, I wouldnt have botheed sitting all the way through.
Un Coeur En Hiver - Took a break from Preminger to see this French film and it's very good. Another combination from Emanuelle Beart and Claude Sautet, I preferred this a bit more to Nelly and Mr Arnaud, which was a good film to start off with.
Where the Sidewalk Ends - This is more like it from Preminger, apart from a bit of corniness at the end its pretty good. A worthy entry into the noir genre.
Also saw National Treasure, which IMHO was a pile of wank. I'd heard that it was a fun film along the lines of Indy and Sky Captain but it took itself a lot more seriously than either of those. But hey, if you're into Bruckheimer's stuff, it's more of the same I guess.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
#1141 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.33.196] on 2005/05/01 09:27:09
I just finished watching the last 6 episodes today. I was highly amazed by the ending, the entire show in fact was not at all what I thought it would be like. Total class.
26 episodes of psychological anime sci-fi robot battle goodness I must say. Althought I think FLCL is a better Gainax production, (only because it's more humorous) Evangelion is a great watch. I got the Perfect Edition for about $75, which I think was highly worth it.
To compare, I got all 3 DVDs of FLCL for about $55.
7 thumbs up. Gainax r0x hardcore.
#1142 posted by bambuz [80.221.25.15] on 2005/05/01 11:39:11
Koyaanisqatsi
Best watched in an atmospheric setting on a big screen...
It's just a silent artfilm-documentary consisting of slow-motion pictures of landscapes and technological stuff and then fast-motion (or what's it called, where people move like ants) pictures of people working etc., all with accompanying music. It's a bit hard to describe.
It just depicts the total craziness of modern society without actually saying a word, just being this patient onlooker.
It was photographed between 1975 and 1982, direction is by Godfrey Reggio and music is by Philip Glass.
http://www.koyaanisqatsi.org/films...
(had to google with: french movie rocket people slow-motion still music... :) )
I haven't seen the other parts of the trilogy.
Bambuz
#1143 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/05/02 02:25:20
that sounds a lot like Baraka. Have you seen that? How do they compare?
Nitin
#1144 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/05/02 03:08:00
xact same idea as baraka.
however the qatsi films are actually a trio of 3. each with a theme, I've only seen the war themed one so far.
comparatively if you liked one, you'll like the other. amazing visuals of our planet & it's people, i'd say the qatsi films music is better suited for it's presentation... of course they were assembled post baraka success.
Baraka
#1145 posted by bambuz [130.233.220.23] on 2005/05/02 09:22:48
Hmm, gotta watch that.
http://www.spiritofbaraka.com/
Says it's almost ten years younger than Koyaanisqatsi (the first, original) though, and the shots show it's a bit human-centered, which I'm not that interested of. I liked Koyaanisqatsi's "cold pondering observer"-style a lot. Raising a silent question.
Btw I also watched Winged Migration - I liked it too, maybe it was a tad long - there were so many perfect end-scenes where the birds vanish into the distance.
I think these kinds of films have to be looked with the right kind of friends for the feeling and on a big screen for the photography to really have effect. If you have friends who are patient enough for something with no miniguns, muscles, tits or teenagers.
In winged migration, that iceberg breaking up was quite majestic, and the gooses in the desert were funny. :) When you look at birds you never kind of think of what they have experienced in their life already.
btw you know the Koyaanisqatsi movie is quite old the moment you see assembly line work at an electronics factory and the workers are white.
Fyi
#1146 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/05/02 15:12:07
baraka has tits.
...sqatsi
#1147 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2005/05/02 17:23:33
I attended one party where the visuals from the movies popped up everywhere (sync'd), from a whole wall projection to a couple of 64cm TVs to several strategically placed LCDs. The sountracks where "piped" through the place via several sets of speakers at a level that was clear but not intrusive. Excellent party experience.
Party?
#1148 posted by bambuz [80.221.25.15] on 2005/05/02 17:43:29
oh come on.
Err...
#1149 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2005/05/02 19:06:17
Why the scowl friend?
HHGTTG
#1150 posted by mwh [195.92.198.71] on 2005/05/03 06:55:55
I really enjoyed it. You could accuse it of being disjointed and fairly pointless, but the same charges apply to all the other incarnations of HHGTTG just as well.
I'd very carefully avoided reading any reviews of it before going to see it, which probably helped :)
"HHGTTG" Makes Me Think Of DNA Palindromes
#1151 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.255.30] on 2005/05/03 11:07:53
Except "H" isn't a nucleotide.
..So Primitive They Thought Novelty Ringtones Were A Pretty Neat Idea
#1152 posted by Preach [131.111.249.211] on 2005/05/03 13:37:43
HHGTTG fans will also be glad to know that the new and final part of the radio show is being broadcast now by the BBC. If you visit the radio section of the BBC website you can listen to the first episode, and the rest are on at 6:30pm each Tuesday. Of course, I don't think making a Radio Thread will be all that sucessful, but if you're a fan of Douglas Adams, you'll probably enjoy this show.
RPG:
#1153 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/05/03 14:06:40
i had the same reaction to GATTACA.
DNA & RPG
#1154 posted by Kell [82.41.10.46] on 2005/05/03 14:08:16
Coincidentally enough, DNA were Douglas ( Noel ) Adams' initials. He was born in Cambridge in 1952, so one of his stock jokes used to be that he was DNA in Cambridge 9 months before Watson and Crick made their discovery.
Eureka
#1155 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.55.50] on 2005/05/03 14:40:49
This is the most useless forum ever.
Some Stuff I Saw
#1156 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/05/04 05:58:48
All About My Mother - I'd never seen an Almodovar film before but judging by this, he's a man in complete control. The direction is outstanding, the acting is outstanding. Whilst the script isnt as outstanding, it's still very good and interesting. Probably not for all tastes, I'd still highly recommend this to anyone who's interested in good cinema.
Napoleon Dynamite - This is a movie that's self consciously quirky and thinks its funnier than it really is. It follows a current trend where filmmakers think that just having strange people in strange situations doing strange things is automatically funny. It does have its share of laughs but overall it's still not up to scratch IMHO.
More Stuff
#1157 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/05/09 07:18:24
Laura - I liked this quite a bit although I think it falls well short of the 'great' category. IMHO, the absurd plot which is a bit too convulted and silly in parts detracts from the film but the style and script do serve it well. As does the presence of Gene Tierney.
To Have and Have Not - Quite good as long as you can ignore the 'Casablanca' hangover and some hokey sidekick antics. Bogart and Bacall do a much better job together here than in Key Largo and whenever they're on screen, the movie works well.
The Apartment - Probably doesnt work as well as it did back when it was released. The first hour or so is quite good with some nice Wilder dialogue and Lemmon in top form but after the hour mark, the movie comes to a bit of a halt and never really reaches the same heights as before. That's not to say its a bad film in the second half, it's actually quite well made and acted the whole way through, but the two halfs are drastically different in pacing and IMHO dont quite fit. Still, well worth watching because of some great lines.
Meet The Fokkers
#1158 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.186] on 2005/05/10 01:31:37
Just rented it and watched it, but I have never seen Meet the Parents. Man, oh, man this is a funny movie. Be warned, if you have a glass eye, Dustin Hoffman will rip it right out of the socker with all the laughter he'll get out of you. Man. I'm still crying.
Ben Stiller, the older and more bulked up he gets, the more he looks like his mother O'Mara than his dad Jerry Stiller, so the schmeil comedy bit of his is getting a bit worn.
And there is only one word for Barbra Streisand in this movie: Hot!
Headthump
#1159 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/05/10 01:51:18
whilst by no means a great film, meet the parents is better than meet the fockers. SO if you liked the sequel, the first ont is marginally better.
#1160 posted by Vigil [85.76.1.41] on 2005/05/17 05:47:28
Bought Koyaanisqatsi today. Came in a nice double pack along with Powaqqatsi. Will be watching them <bal>soon</bal>.
I do have a feeling that I'll probably like them, since I'm such a sucker for cinematography, and music. All this "acting" is just an annoyance in some movies.
I Have Seen Two Films Recently...
#1161 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/05/17 14:00:23
Robots - decent idea executed poorly, in a distinctive but subjective style. Okay so the plot is ultra-basic, it's laden with cliches, and were it anything other than an animation it would barely flesh out a 1/2 hour TV episode - but all of that is well compensated for by bags of style and plenty of sharp wit that appeals to adults whilst the cuteness appeals to children, right? Right? No, not really. Whilst other animations spice up the cartoon with adult wit, this throws in a load of mercilessly cheesy pop-media references that lack any sort of comedic bite or philosophical insight. The style of the film I sometimes found similarly weak, but in this area I do admit it's a matter of taste and the cutesy look is perhaps the point. Nevertheless I found the grimy undercity to show the appeal this film could have had. At any rate, the cheesyness and lack of depth is the main issue, and as such this film is strictly paddling in the shallow end.
Kingdom Of Heaven - I do like medieval stuff and thus had a positive expectation of an intriguing medieval spectacle. What I got instead was an incoherent mismash of toiletry adverts and pop-video snippets bound together by the insubstantial glue of a series of non-sequitors. Deep moral issues and crucial plot links were glossed over with minimal explanation and even less sense, whilst arbitrary posturing and random cheesey atmospherics were drawn out to irritating lengths. This was a film that was simultaneously too long and far too short. In fact, it was the way off the mark. Why the makers chose to make it into a series of adverts for Eau De Wandering Aimlessly Along The Sand and Random Mysterious Stare Conditioner For Faggots, instead of a gripping exploration of religion, politics and morality against a backdrop of brutal conflict in a new world, I don't know. Having said all that, some of the LOTR rip-off battlescenes were pretty good, and it got better enough towards the end to keep my arse in the seat.
Star Wars Episode III
#1162 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2005/05/18 02:50:38
First post! Hah!
Wraps up the prequels in a satisfying way and has some of the most attractive renders known to man. And that's really all you need to know. You may not fall in love with it, but you won't leave angy.
Star Wars Episode III
#1163 posted by czg [81.191.27.124] on 2005/05/18 18:52:42
Second post! Hah!
Wraps up the prequels in a satisfying way and has some of the most attractive renders known to man. And that's really all you need to know. You may not fall in love with it, but you won't leave angy.
P.S. I fucking hate star wars and I can't wait until George Lucas dies from his bloated neck syndrome.
Star Wars Episode III
#1164 posted by PuLSaR [80.80.111.129] on 2005/05/21 06:37:32
A good film, rather tragical for its genre.
but I haven't watched episodes 4,5,6 from the beginning till the end. Only partialy..
Czg
#1165 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2005/05/23 00:55:51
I don't get it, you want to explain that?
I Don't Think He Likes Star Wars, Or Me For That Matter
#1166 posted by George Lucas [82.96.100.100] on 2005/05/23 01:14:37
bloated neck syndrome
OMG, is it that obvious, I tried to hide it as long as I could, I am receiving treatment for the condition.
And I Wouldn't Feel So Chipper If I Were You
#1167 posted by George Lucas [82.96.100.100] on 2005/05/23 01:25:49
perhaps you are on his hit list as well
More Stuff
#1168 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/05/27 03:23:15
L'Avventura - I cant say I was too taken in by the movie but Antoinini definitely has a veryd istinctive style that keeps me watching. In this particular film, some of the shots are just very arresting, cant explain it because they arent fancy nor is much happening, but they create a very distinctive mood and feeling. The one thing this movie does do extremely well is make you feel as alienated as the characters in it.
The Asphalt Jungle - Solid all round noir film with well cast characters and a decent script.
Office Space - I went into this hearing a lot of good things and expecting something along the lines of The Office. Instead, I got an above average american comedy with some terrific scenes but mostly heavyhanded instances of the film thinking itself to be cooler and cleverer than it was.
Revenge Of The Sith
#1169 posted by Kinn [81.178.51.25] on 2005/05/27 04:18:20
Awesome, powerful, emotional film; in a completely different league to the other two prequels.
Pandered a little bit too much to kids in the beginning, but as soon as it kicked in properly, it was relentless and satisfyingly brutal in its execution.
Kinn
#1170 posted by czg [81.191.27.124] on 2005/05/27 05:10:01
It almost sucks as much as the LotR films!
You don't suck tho, unless you want to... ^_~
Revenge Of The Sith
#1171 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/05/27 11:52:34
Pretty good, although the overall vibe of Star Wars does look quite ridiculous in this day and again. Also it was quite patchy, there were some tedious moments, a fair amount of kiddie moments (although the two slapstick bits were actually funny), combined with some spectacular bits and some gripping bits.
I do think the actual basic story is a very good (if totally blatant) one to be told in this sort of setting - true space opera with strong classical overtones. And this did show in the film, with some fairly powerful moments. As the over-effusive Kinn points out, more so towards the end. And the whole sci-fi-ness of it all is great, although I do find the technology to be nonsensical.
I think there is a lot of potential for a very powerful, very adult sci-fi film with this sort of story, something that explores BIG issues in a spectacular setting with mind-boggling but comprehensible technology. THIS isn't quite it as it is still quite a kiddie film, but it did have some inspiring parallels.
Worth going to see, I thought. But neither spectacularly good (although it was goodly spectacular) not remotely awful.
Again = Age
#1172 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/05/27 11:53:59
Also, I'd like to know whether these two are worth watching:
Sin City - sounds kinda entertaining. Max Payne2 got me into the film noir style.
The Jacket - sounds really cool, and indeed quite a lot like Jacob's Ladder which was great.
Views?
Re: Shambler
#1173 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.133] on 2005/05/27 12:39:14
Sin City: See above. There were quite a few comments posted when it came out in the US. Generally recommended, although it didn't seem to me to be as deep as some people thought it was.
The Jacket: I dunno, but it's on my rental list.
Sin City
#1174 posted by starbuck [82.33.89.24] on 2005/05/27 14:55:13
I'll get to the point and say I though this was absolutely fantastic. Everything you'll read in a positive review is true, and the only negative points i've read is that some people think there's too much violence, and that it's degrading to women. How awesome is that?
It's important that you watch it not expecting anything deep or complex of course. This is a classic action film, like Die Hard or True Lies, with characters 100 times more badass than Max Payne, no bullet-time bullshit, and no pussification of the dialogue or content as you'd expect to see in a comic-adaptation. All you get is strippers being punched in the face, priests being shot in the head; henchmen being taken down by hatchets. And thats by the GOOD guys.
Thats just one thing that makes this movie so good. The good guys are tough assholes, but the bad guys are really bad, really evil. Something so satisfying about seeing Bruce Willis's Detective Hartigan punch a pedo's head into the ground, or Mickey Rourke's Marv beat the shit out of a cannibal weirdo.
I'm just so happy to see a film this much fun, and this un-PC get realeased to such a wide audience. It's worth the price of admission to just see the 'Marv' section. It's worth the price of admission just to see him call all the women he meets 'broads', or for the line:
"That's my Parole officer. She's a dyke, but god knows why. With that body she could have any man she wanted."
So, yeah definitely go see this movie. I watched a copy of it with a room of people, and most of the guys broke into cheers every 5 minutes (most of the girls didn't really get it :)). Ive never seen a movie do that to people before. Maybe Indiana Jones would do that, in its own much less violent way.
OK now I may have over-hyped it, but I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Shambler
#1175 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/05/27 19:07:53
see the trailer for sin city, the style's not for everyone but I have been waiting very eagerly for australian cinemas to actually fucking release the thing here.
Sin City
#1176 posted by Vigil [194.100.92.63] on 2005/05/30 00:16:25
The movie's so good that I'd pass a chance to see pictures of Shambler's naked mother just to see Sin City again.
Nitin...
#1177 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2005/05/31 19:06:47
...seconded
Just Saw
#1178 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/06/04 02:57:36
'A Tale of Two Sisters'
a korean horror flick from 2003, just released on NTSC DVD for those interested in buying/watching it.
I saw it, I manifested my own interpretation of how the story unfolded. Then after a bit of reading up on it I found my idea of how it played out doesn't match in a lot of places. Although these were all other personal explanations from other viewers, so nobody is technically 'correct', and it would seem this was intended after glancing quickly at some of the extra dvd content titles which include a 'psychiatrists commentary'. I didn't get to view that stuff so I guess I'll be left in the dark for a while.
overall it was great bit of horror/psychology.
Pope
#1179 posted by Bal [83.199.65.198] on 2005/06/04 03:15:07
Yeah, I watched that with my girlfriend, and neither of us understood it the same way, definatly some strange story telling... But yeah, a nice film.
I'd
#1180 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/06/04 18:24:23
question you on your take of the plot, but here is probably not the best place in the rare case someone else here wants to indulge in this piece of horror.
Some Stuff I Saw Recently
#1181 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/04 20:57:10
The Devil's Backbone - I liked Del Toro's work in Blade II and bits of Hellboy so I thought I'd check out what's considered his best and personal favorite film.
Nice story but this is not a horror/thriller as it is marketed. The acting/directing and cinematography is first rate. The problem lies with the melding of the supernatural story to the more normal civil war story. It just doesnt click together as well as it should. Still, it's well worth checking out.
Thieves Highway - Quite classy film noir from Jules Dassin. The acting and story are first rate but it falters quite badly towards the end.
Nine Queens - Recently remade by Hollywood as 'Criminal', this recent Argentinian con film is quite enjoyable. The decent performances cover up some glaring holes in the plot which is also a bit too contrived to achieve its twist ending. It doesnt help that its made really obvious that there's a bigger con game at work than what's shown onscreen.
The Emperor and the Assassin - Another take on the tale told more recently in Hero, one thats meant to be more faithful. It features some excellent cinematography and impressive 'real' battle scenes along with some good acting at times. Unfortunately, the script is a terrible mess trying to cover way too much and rushing many key scenes. The all over the place approach is not aided by some clunky directing either. Still, it's very watchable despite all this due to the sheer presence of Gong Li and the actor that played the Emperor.
Belle de Jour - Interesting is probably the best way to describe this film. Too enigmatic in some parts, too obvious in others but it still has something that just draws you in. Will probably have to rewatch but even after first viewing, it's recommended.
Out of the Past - Double Indemnity and Maltese Falcon aside, this is the definitive film noir. Terrific dialogue and some very cool performances from Robert Mitchum, Kirk Douglas and Jane Greer. The cinematography is also extremely well done.
I'm A John Houston Fan
#1182 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.107] on 2005/06/04 22:59:41
But I've never thought the Maltese Falcon was really that good. Petrified Forest, now that is more like it in the classic Noir tradition.
The Triplets Of Bellevue...
#1183 posted by distrans [211.28.241.21] on 2005/06/06 06:51:27
...understated, inventive magic.
Agreed Distrans
#1184 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/06 06:58:40
that was great stuff!
Series 7: The Contenders
#1185 posted by pushplay [68.148.157.110] on 2005/06/06 18:26:48
It was at the Sundance a while ago and I always meant to see it but never did until now. I was expecting a social commentary and instead got 40% commentary and 60% love story. A fucked up love story, but one none the less. I would recommend it.
Also, if I were being hunted, I would probably go with some sort of semi-automatic sniper rifle hidden somewhere, a pump-action shotgun, an automatic handgun with extended magazine, and a small crowbar.
Pasolini!
#1186 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/06/07 00:44:06
Hooray, the nearby theatre is having it's own Pasolini festival at the end of june. showcasing all of his movies over a 2 week period (some are played multiple times) and finishing off with the appropriate 'Salo: 120 days of sodom'
bit of irony, Pasolini was murdered by a gay prostitute when that film was released. However the film, while I don't think I could honestly "recommend" someone watch it, I do think it should be seen. I guarantee it will be the hardest feature length film you will ever sit through. Half the theatre walked out during it, and these were people expecting the worst.
If you can bring a date.
Kinn, I'd Like
#1187 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.59] on 2005/06/07 18:31:20
to see a repeat performance of the last time you ripped on Pasolini. It is mind boggling how often he comes up as a subject.
I guarantee it will be the hardest feature length film you will ever sit through.
Nah. The documentary made in the eighties on nuclear war with footage of test pigs squeeling and the aftermath of Hiroshima makes mere shit eating perversions look like mere shit eating perversions.
?
#1188 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2005/06/07 22:41:07
No offence Headthump but I think you may have missed the point. The people who were being forced to eat the shit and bathe in it weren't actually "into" the practice.
HeadThump
#1189 posted by Kinn [81.178.51.25] on 2005/06/08 02:00:41
I would watch the nuclear war documentary, because i'm sure it will be thought-provoking and educational (being based on real-world events and all).
Salo is just fictional snuff showing a bunch of teenagers getting raped, mutilated and forced to eat their own poo.
Atomic Cafe
#1190 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.137] on 2005/06/08 11:11:29
I'm pretty sure that that was the title.
Oh Yeah,
#1191 posted by metlslime [67.180.175.229] on 2005/06/08 21:45:09
i saw that.
#1192 posted by gone [195.208.123.213] on 2005/06/09 04:32:59
just fictional snuff showing a bunch of teenagers getting raped, mutilated and forced to eat their own poo?
pfft, thats so ZZzzz
really, I thout there is more to 'Salo'
Some More Stuff
#1193 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/12 18:55:06
The Killing - Fabulous film noir by Stanley Kubrick, I'm surprised that this doesnt get a mention amongst his best films. It's far better than his later work like The Shining and Full Metal Jacket. Spot on acting and very confident and assured direction.
Sideways - Quite an enjoyable film with some very funny moments counterbalanced with strong characters and situations. Only thing holding it back from greatness is an overlong running time, 20 mins shorter would have been perfect for the story at work here.
Days of Being Wild - I've been trying to get a hold of wong kar wai's earlier films after liking his last 2 films a lot. This is considered his best early period film but I really cant see why. The screenplay is very weak, even for his standards, and the mood the he so heavily relies on just does not come across here. Very disappointing.
And 2 More
#1194 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/13 03:04:59
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - It's too stagey with too many rough spots and a weak ending to be entitled great, but when it fires, it does so on all cylinders. There's enough brilliant acting and moments in this film to overcome the shortcomings.
Night and The City - A little weak at the start and an even weaker end but the rest is very very good. Another very solid film noir by Jules Dassin.
Niitin...
#1195 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2005/06/13 19:17:17
...did you happen to catch the Kubrick festival and associated doco's on SBS recently? I think I preferred the doco's in the end (The Killing was featured highly in one). Kubrick rules, but in short doses with long gaps in between.
Good Selections There Nitin,
#1196 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.249] on 2005/06/13 21:53:58
I really liked Sideways too. Adult comedies of the Wes Anderson vain are more likely to get me in the theaters than any other genre.
Giamati's (spelling correct?)acting was a first rate job. So good in fact, he took a character I would probably loathe in real life (wine sniffer who steals from his mother) and he makes the character very sympathetic.
I saw Life Aquatic last week, but was too drunk to remember anything but a vague feeling that it was all an homage to Fellini (The camera followed Bill Murray, who played a fustrated genius while nutso-quirkos aggraviated the hell out of him, kind of like 9&1/2 or Fellini's Poe short).
Distrans/headthump
#1197 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/14 02:43:16
didnt see the kubrick festival since I own or have seen most the stuff anyway (with the exception of spartacus, lolita and eyes wide shut). I did see the doco though, interesting but not as good as scorscese's doco shown recently.
Headthump,
yeah he was a prick done really well wasnt he? Same for his friend, I thought. I havent seen Fellini's stuff yet, although I have 8 1/2, amarcord, la dolce vita and la strada lying around.
Too much to see, not enough time now that there's full time work :(
Headthump/nitin:
#1198 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/06/14 14:04:53
Yeah, but i think the best comedies often involve characters that are simultaneously sympathetic and detestable. This way you want them to succeed, but you can also laugh at their misfortune. John Cleese in Fawlty Towers is a great example of this.
Nitin: The Killing is one of my favorites from Kubrick. It feels so modern in the storytelling, editing, etc. that it obviously was the ancestor of may more recent crime movies.
Metl
#1199 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/14 14:48:30
yeah but Sidewyas worked as a dram too, it wasnt an all out comedy, therefore needing the character to be more sympathetic than detestable.
And yeah, first thing that popped into my head after seeing the killing was Reservoir Dogs.
Id Some Film Quotes Please.
#1200 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/06/15 01:12:11
"There is no possibility of of release here, no chance of escape. This place will be your holding pen till your death, because death is the only way out of here. You are condemned - either accept it, or die."
"Welcome to Central Industrial, part of Correctional Services ever-expanding network of new-generation facilities, dedicated to the goal of humane containment."
Both on seperate and equally PHAT drum'n'bass tracks - they might belong to some right shite films tho =/.
There's another one I wanted ided but I forget...
Shambler
#1201 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/15 01:54:48
second one's from :
Ghosts...of the Civil Dead
And A Link
#1202 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/15 01:59:25
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt009521...
Sadly, Vin Diesel Is Hitman: Agent 47
#1203 posted by . [68.255.59.243] on 2005/06/15 07:46:22
http://www.comingsoon.net/news/top...
Vin Diesel will star as Agent 47 in 20th Century Fox's upcoming adaptation of Hitman, the best-selling video game franchise from Eidos and developer IO Interactive.
Diesel also will serve as executive producer. Charles Gordon and Adrian Askarieh are producing through their respective companies, Daybreak Productions and Prime Universe Productions. Daniel Alter will co-produce.
The game's story centers on an international assassin known as Agent 47 who works for a mysterious organization dubbed the Agency. The first three games in the franchise have sold more than 10 million units. Eidos plans to release another sequel, "Hitman: Blood Money," this fall.
"'Hitman' is a project that by the virtue of its DNA can and will reach far beyond its already substantial core audience," Askarieh said. "The canvas on which this adventure takes place is something that movie audiences have embraced for the last 40 years. We obviously are delighted to have Vin Diesel on board, too -- he and Agent 47 are a match made in heaven (HELL)."
NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! That baby-faced bulky fuck is NOT 47! Fuckdammit.
***** video game movies.
Nitin
#1204 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/06/15 09:50:12
Yah that figures, there's another sample in the track from some Aussie dood too...
Anyone know the first one?
Tale Of Two Sisters
#1205 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/17 19:03:51
I have to say, I was a little disappointed.
Sure, it's well shot, well acted and has a nice Kubrick/Polanski type of atmosphere. But in these post-Sixth Sense days, horror films with plot bending twists just cant afford to give all their cards away too early. Say what you will about Sixth Sense, but it singlehandedly revived and killed the horror twist ending genre.
In this particular case, the revelation(s) were signalled too obviously and too early IMHO. One twist was easier to spot than the other, but once yo work out one, the other follows if you think about it logically. And apart from the twist(s), I thought it failed to be scary in its key shock scenes. Buildup was usually good, but it was compromised either by predictability or poor execution.
I'm sure it works better if the twist(s) are not spotted, but there really is not much there once you've spotted them.
Batman Begins
#1206 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/19 23:17:43
Very very good and although Burton's films were completely different and also enjoyable, this is the best by far.
The mood and setting was nailed perfectly as was the character of Batman. Full marks to Christian Bale and the other actors for their performances. The script and direction are also very good save for a couple of moments which I'll go into later on. The city was realised beautifully, the buildup was fantastic and it leads nicely for a sequel. Too many cool moments to list.
What can be definitely imrpoved are the fight scenes. The jerky fast cutting camera style for the hand to hand fights needs to be ditched for something better. It got away with it a bit because most of it was still reasonably incharacter with the tone of the film but there has to be a better way wheer you can tell what's going on. The musical score, whilst adequate, was nothing memorable and perhaps this can also be looked into.
Overall, up there with spiderman 2 as best comic adaptation yet, albeit a very different one
More
#1207 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/19 23:44:33
Bringing up Baby - Disappointing IMHO. Slapstick was never my thing but I'd heard this was one of the best comedies. I expected a bit more wittiness, I mean it was ok but nothing special for my tastes.
Sullivan's Travels - First 20 mins into this and I was quite impressed, some clever wit and good lines. After that, it went all over the place and degenerated into slapstick, corn, silliness and didnt realy know what it was doing.
A Streetcar Name Desire - This was very interesting. On the one hand, I loved Brando's performance and some of the story. On the other hand I felt Vivien Leigh's performance was way over the top and too mannered, campy and overdramatic.
I dont know if that was deliberate or not but IMHO it really jarred with the more realistic approach of Brando. Still, it's worth watching.
Nitin -- Have You Seen The Machinist?
#1208 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.229] on 2005/06/20 08:13:06
Bale was great in it but also quite disgusting to look at -- Good fucked up flick.
The Machinist
#1209 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.133] on 2005/06/20 13:57:59
More disturbing than interesting. Definitely not as intelligent as it tried to be. Fairly predictable as well, and it lost a lot of its tension near the end.
Machinist
#1210 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/20 15:14:43
getting it tomorrow I think. Dont know when I'll get around to watching it, still got heaps of other stuff to go through.
The Machinist
#1211 posted by pushplay [129.128.23.177] on 2005/06/21 12:22:22
Isn't really a traditional fucked-up flick as much as it is Hitchcockian fucked-up. Especially the music is reminiscent of his films.
Hitchcockian Fucked Up
#1212 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/22 02:49:50
I'm there, it just went to the top of my to watch pile.
BTW, also saw SAW which is not bad till the stupid twist ending which goes completely in the face of everything that went before. I think pushplay summed it up best in that the longer it runs the dumber it gets.
The Aviator
#1213 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/06/24 21:37:21
A movie with greatness in its grasp.
Di Caprio has never done anything as good as this. Even when the script and makeup fail him, he is very very good. He's ably supported by some very fine performances from Cate Blanchett, Alan Alda and John C Reilly.
Scorcese is in his best form since Goodfellas, with some brilliant sequences, some in terms of flashiness other in terms of rawness. I've seen many awesomely photographed films but there's some amazing cinematography and camerawork at work.
What fails is the cohesiveness of the script. In parts brilliant, in parts equally surface-scratching especially in relation to the mental challenges faced by Hughes. I wasnt convinced with the OCD depiction (except dicaprio's performance) and the half-hearted attempt to explain it. The film probably could have attributed more time to this area and taken out some other peripheral stuff.
Still, this is well worth watching and is a pleasure to look at.
I'll Have To Check
#1214 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.57] on 2005/06/26 13:30:55
out The Aviator. After Chaplin, I have avoided bio flicks as a general rule. In that case, even though Robert Downey Jr.s acting was spot on, the story they made of Chaplin's life was so damn self serving (of Hollywood).
I spent yesterday watching a bunch of movies. Batman Begins for starters. This has to be the best superhero adaptation I have seen yet. Faithful to the DarkKnight ethos with no Burtonesque cheese that ruined the Nicholson\Keaton movie for me. I love how batman fights in this one. No grace, just pure pummeling and tackling the hell out the SOB's.
Great supporting cast with the exception of the character Katie Holmes played. I wont blame the actress because there is no salvation for the goody-two shoes, sanctimonious twat she played.
I mean, the guy saves your entire fucking city and you still think that you are too good for him. Go jump in a lake (of fire).
Next up, The Jacket. Slow start but the plotting overall is nicely done. I like how the characters open up during the movie. Most every one Brodie meets at the start are prickly, icily cold, by the end and because of the choices he make,s there is a subtle change in the temperment.
Keira Knightley is, uhm, wow.
Hurly Burly was a decent flick, however, it is the weakest of these three. I enjoyed it because of the chemistry between Penn and Spacek and there is a good ammount of humor to keep your interest, but if anyone who watched it actually hated it for being a self consciously pedantic yakity-yak, I would understand since it is based upon a play.
The part of a coke head fits Penn like a glove.
Oh, And Kudos
#1215 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.57] on 2005/06/26 13:56:54
to Liam Neeson, in his last several roles he has single handedly built back the manly image of the Irish race which was severely emascalated in the 1990's by The Lord of the Dance, Michael Flatley.
It is a tough row to hoe but Liam is getting it done.
I Dunno Headthump
#1216 posted by Blitz [24.218.169.151] on 2005/06/26 23:52:24
I always thought Daniel Day Lewis was pretty badass
Lol
#1217 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.35] on 2005/06/27 07:20:25
Good Point
He is the Last of the Mohicans afterall.
Just Saw War Of The Worlds
#1218 posted by czg [81.191.27.124] on 2005/06/28 17:32:29
Pretty good fun as far as films about the mindless desctruction of humankind under an alien holocaust powered by awesome special effects and cool designs go.
Batman Begins
#1219 posted by R.P.G. at work [208.221.166.2] on 2005/06/30 09:32:55
Good fun. Recommended for 2.5 hours of good entertainment. Finally something that more closely resembles the Batman stuff I gew up with: Batman The Animated Series. I'm hoping future Batman movies live up to this one; especially since the Burton films never really did it for me, and the others are miserable failures.
Need Another Quote Id...
#1220 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/07/02 13:09:42
This is from a wicked track, 7 Angels With 7 Plagues by Evol Intent...
"It is written: in the last days, a world leader will rise up, rebuild Solomon's Temple, and usher in three and a half years of world peace under a new Roman Empire. Then possessed by Satan, he will declare himself God and embark on a reign of terror until the Lord comes to destroy him. The final battle between Heaven and Hell approaches."
Shambler
#1221 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.254.133] on 2005/07/02 13:34:28
I'd guess either The Omega Code or Vanished. Probably The Omega Code.
Ummm
#1222 posted by antiscamp [82.96.100.100] on 2005/07/02 14:24:19
t is written: in the last days, a world leader will rise up... he will declare himself God and embark on a reign of terror
scampies autobiography ?
Sin City
#1223 posted by Jago [85.76.178.7] on 2005/07/02 15:01:32
Just watched Sin City and all the good stuff I heard about it's true: it's violent and it's damn good. Mickey Rourke, Bruce Willis, Benicio Del Toro and even Elijah Wood all show a very good perfomance. Recommended.
Some Stuff
#1224 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/02 23:30:49
The Vanishing - Saw the original dutch version not the extremely badly adapted american one with sandra bullock.
Quite a well made albeit slow burn thriller with a very good buildup and climax. Very different to your standard serial killer type film which is why the hollywood version sucked since it took away most of what was original in the dutch version.
Insomnia - I liked the remake, I thought Chris Nolan and the actors made that quite a good film (except the badly executed ending). So I went and checked out the original.
The original is also a very well made and effective film. However, it is almost a completely different take on the story. The basic plot elements are the same but this is almost entirely about the main character (played by Pacino in the remake) with everyone else getting a lot less screen time. And the take on Insomnia in the original is also different, with it being less of a dominant force on the character and more of a constant, annoying disturbance.
If I had to pick one, I'd go with the remake, mainly becuase I like Nolan's style but if I had to pick the one with more strengths than weaknesses, I'd go with the original.
Diabolique - Very good thriller which takes a while to get going but then hits all the right notes. The ending is well executed if a little predictable now with the numerous films that have ripped it off.
I dont know if the story about Hitchcock wanting to make this and missing out on the rights is true, but I would have liked to see what he would have done with this material. it could have been very interesting ala the Insomnia comparison.
The Lady Eve - It's highly regarded but I thought it was average to above average at best. Barbara stanwyck's pretty good but it never really clicked for me. A few nicely judgedmoments but nothing that would make me watch it again.
Leave Her to Heaven - Dated old fashioned melodrama with Gene Tierney as an obsessive/possessive wife. Filled with some woeful acting, Tierney is average but some of the other actors are just plain bad. What saves it is some eye popping cinematography. Nothing flashy in terms of camerawork but very well shot.
The Bad and The Beautiful - Sunset Boulevard Lite, probably what Wilder's film would have been like had a studio got its way. Still, it's an above average film with a decent script except for one or two badly misjudged scenes (most invovling Lana turner and her lack of acting abilities).
War Of The Worlds
#1225 posted by DaZ [80.42.195.69] on 2005/07/03 15:32:25
Just got back from the cinema. And well I geuss I enjoyed it overall, but I was very dissapointed about the 2nd half of the film, after they take shelter in the crazy mans basement the film just falls apart and became very boring from then onwards. But all the events leading upto that were fantastic. I really got into it at the beginning, spielberg's directing is great and fx is nice etc. But it does all feel a little hollow in the 2nd half.
Worth seeing...
Nitin...
#1226 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2005/07/05 22:01:00
...do you have any idea how one might get one's hands on 35mm print of Bergman's The Seventh Seal? I can't find back catalogues for the major distributors.
Distrans
#1227 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/06 00:30:55
no.
The Criterion DVD looks pretty decent blown up though.
http://www.criterionco.com/asp/rel...
"This new digital transfer was created from a new 35mm fine-grain master positive made from the restored camera negative"
Nitin...
#1228 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2005/07/06 19:50:13
...thanks, that Criterion transfer might cut it (blown up) in an 110 seat cinema. A bit of grain adds to the charm of that film anyways. I've got a PhD of History lined up to do a brief intro focussing on Pestilence and the Plague, & a PhD of Philsophy lined up to do a brief paper on the 'existential hero' afterward (followed by wine, nibbles and a Q&A). Now I just need to get the copyright stuff sorted.
Distrans:
#1229 posted by metlslime [67.180.175.229] on 2005/07/06 21:51:05
sounds like it would fall under fair use. I remember seeing full-length movies in some university classes.
Metlslime...
#1230 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2005/07/06 22:59:44
...yes, if I was showing in the uni theatre to students and fellow academics fair use would apply. However, this is part of our community enrichment brief and will be open to the public in a public cinema. Criterion should be back to me with a solution tomorrow.
Batman Begins...
#1231 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/07/07 02:15:16
....bloody excellent!! One of the very few films I've been to and walked out thinking "That was great" without reservation.
This is the QUALITY of action / action hero film the world has been needing for a long time, and something anyone trying to make a modern action film should be forced to watch and learn from. Stuff that actually makes some SENSE, a world and characters with some COHERENCE (both in the context of it being a fantastical world, of course), a film that delivered thing STRAIGHT without wallowing in CHEESE. Basically a lot of the little details that other action films do wrong, this did right. Great entertainment and good hope for the future of action films.
Distrans
#1232 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/07 02:16:09
seventh seal is an early criterion release and nowhere near some of their best restorations but it's still a pretty good image. Hopefully, it will satisfy what you need to do.
Shambler
#1233 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/07 02:19:11
I think in the end it comes down to having a good director at the helm with good actors to play with. Christopher Nolan had directed two very good films before this and with that cast, he had adequate resources for a quality film.
Batman
#1234 posted by DaZ [80.42.199.80] on 2005/07/07 07:28:05
Full agreement with shambler, but as someone else said, I didn't like the way that the fight scenes were directed, all the quick cuts and the way you can never really see both combatants at the same time made it very confusing to follow. If they had filmed the punch ups in a more "matrix" way im sure they would have had more effect. Thats the only crit I can come up with at the moment, recommended to everyone!
Batman
#1235 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/07/07 08:16:07
Full agreement with Daz and nitin about the fight scenes, they were the only obvious thing that didn't work, because you couldn't see what the hell was going on.
Another, more minor criticism, was that apart from The Narrows and the trains, Gotham was not as striking and dramatic as it could have been.
Oh P.S., Anyone else spot the cunning jibe at the previous Batman films??
Gotham
#1236 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/07 15:23:36
I thought it was well done. Very blade runnerish but not too fantasy like, still grounded in reality.
Batman Begins
#1237 posted by Bal [83.199.79.209] on 2005/07/08 04:09:10
Yeah, I agree with all that's been said, good film, too bad they didn't get some crazy chinese dude to help out on the fight scenes, hehe.
I liked the whole nightmarish scenes caused by the drug, would have liked more of those.
Why didn't that microwave machine blow up humans though? I can't imagine all the water in my body vaporising without me noticing.
Oh, and the batmobile rocks. =)
Bal
#1238 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/08 04:21:26
because in true comic book form, no one thinks those things through.
And the batmobile was perfect in action, even though it looked terrible in still shots.
;kjh
#1239 posted by ÐÐÐ [68.212.249.205] on 2005/07/08 20:54:49
hi
More
#1240 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/11 02:44:55
Tristana - Pretty good film by Luis Bunuel, not as surreal as some of his other stuff, but definitely featuring some of his favorite themes. Catherine Deneuve puts in a commanding performance that starts out looking like most her roles but by the end is something different. Plus she has never looked better.
If anyhting, the script could use more work, time periods jump too suddenly for my liking.
Million Dollar Baby - This is not best picture material. Having got that out of the way, its a very good film. The direction is very assured (the best direcotr oscar is actually well judged), confident and hides some script problems well. It's helped further by some nuanced performances although why Freeman won best supporting actor for this is also a wonder. He's put in decent work, but nothing remarkable compared to other work. S and Eastwood are pretty good and work well together.
The main issue is the script. Mostly very good, it has some glaring shrotcomings in relation to some very cliche one dimensional characters and also some situations. For what he had to work with, Eastwood did very well, helped ably by some fine acting.
PS - I think Sideways, this and Aviator are on the same level. All very good films but falling short of greatness due to some issues. My pick for Best Picture was Eternal Sunshine but thats not really Academy material.
The Machinist - Nifty little thriller with Christian Bale. Definitely employs Hitchcock flavour for most of its running time (especially the bernard hermann like score).
Some people, like I did through most the running time, may groan at the attempted twist and its predictability. However, the final few seconds make the film work not because of the twist reveal (which I now genuinely believe is deliberately signposted numerous times in a not so subtle manner) but because of the "why?" denouement.
And this film probably wasnt 'important' enough for Bale to undergo the physical transformation that he did, but if only every actor was as committed to roles as this. Another winner of a performance from him.
Miami Connection
#1241 posted by cyBeAr [80.217.112.63] on 2005/07/11 07:46:45
Has to be one of the best movies ever! The acting, story and soundtrack and everythign else is excellent!
Before watching this movie I thought karate was the best form of martial arts and that ninjas were also very cool but know I know better - taekwando owns them all and I look foward to when I am a blackbelt so I can kick ass in the name of world peace!
The Descent
#1242 posted by DaZ [80.42.199.66] on 2005/07/14 03:33:31
Saw this yesterday with Dranz, and I went in with no expectations having only seen 1 short trailer which didn't really show anything...
And I was pleasantly surprised! This is one gory sick film! Its about some thrill seekers who go caving in the USA for fun and everything turns to shit and they need to esacpe.
Its a real dark film, set about 90% underground with just headlamps and glowsticks etc, and it does get really tense at times. Fantastic directing throughout as well I thought, you really get the sense of claustraphobia and darkness.
The film does fall down in a few areas though. The first 45 mins - 1hr are absolutely fucking boring :( Its all about the people involved and not much happens at all, very dull. Some could argue that it is TOO DARK and u cant really see whats going on, but I found there was enough illumination to see whats happening, while still leave some blanks to keep u on the edge of your seat.
The other crit is that once you've worked out what is going on in the film with regard to the challenges the characters need to face then you can start working out what is gonna happen next without much difficulty.
That said, if you like gore, this must be one of the more bloodthirsty and downright sick at times film I have seen this year, if not in YEARS, and is genuinely disturbing at times.
Try it, you might like it.
Before Speedy Tries To Be Funny
#1243 posted by DaZ [80.42.199.66] on 2005/07/14 03:35:48
"set about 90% underground with just headlamps and glowsticks etc,"
NO IT IS NOT A RAVE, SHUTUP U RUSSIAN TWAT
More
#1244 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/14 05:12:20
Desperado - Disappointing. I'd heard a lot about the action in this fim but there was nothing that was really that good here. I've seen much better and of course the rest of the plot was non-existant even though for some reason the director thought he was making some sort of epic.
Ringu - Anyone that's seen the remake and this original and still claims that the japanese version is better and scarier is in denial that a US remake of a foreign film actually came out supeior.
The original, which lacks Gore Verbinski's visual flair from the remake, just accentuates just how silly the whole plot is. Sure, the remake had a few too neat explanatory scenes and some unecessary and unrelated subplots, but when the main concept is so silly, it doesnt really matter.
And Hideo Nakata did a better directing job with (regrettably even sillier material) Dark Water.
Ringu
#1245 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/07/14 11:49:04
I generally agree with you, but I remember Ringu having the nicer ending. (though I can't even remember how it ended, anymore!)
Ringu
#1246 posted by Bal [83.199.73.98] on 2005/07/14 16:45:46
Well, this is a totally non-objective way of comparing movies, but I prefered the Japanese version just cause it felt stranger, and sadako was alot creepier than samara (you never see her face, and they've got that nice freaky eye-through-hair thing going that they didn't keep in the american version).
The american version just felt alot less scarier (which doesn't mean it's not a better movie I suppose).
And yeah, I also prefered the ending to Ringu.
Bal
#1247 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/15 01:49:40
really? See that's thing, I felt the remake felt stranger and creepier (minus the horse scene, that was just dumb).
The ending (assuming you mean driving to the grandfather to make him watch the tape) is better.
Maybe this is one of those that because it relies so much on strangeness, the version yo watch first will be better since you dont know the plot (well loosely anyway).
Nitin
#1248 posted by Bal [83.199.9.66] on 2005/07/15 11:11:26
Yeah, you're probably right, and I saw Ringu at least twice (along with Ringu 2 and Ringu 0) before seeing the american version, so I suppose the whole idea was already a bit stale to me by then. =\
The fact that I found it not bad is probably proof enough that it's a good adaptation. =)
#1249 posted by nitin [138.217.4.38] on 2005/07/18 06:11:49
Knife in the Water - Early Roman Polanski film which demonstrates his ability to create tension even out of seemingly non-threatening situations. But the script and movie are pretty average on the whole.
The Letter - Pretty good noir/melodrama with bette davis. Has some strange characters and is pretty well acted. The direction by william wyler is also pretty impressive.
Mean Streets - Not as good as his masterworks, but this Scorcese film is still pretty good. Lacklustre script but strong performances by Harvey Keitel in particular and laso Rovert de niro. Direction by scorcese is very good.
To Live - Hero was good, House of Flying Daggers was not but this is in another league altogether. Apart from a slight drag in pacing in the last half hour, this is a pretty awesome film by Zhang Yimou. Everything just clicks and works perfectly together. And the acting by Ge You is one of the great performaces in the history of cinema.
So Sin Cit Finally Made It To Oz
#1250 posted by nitin [138.217.3.182] on 2005/07/19 06:46:54
The visuals are very inventive and it's the most visually striking film in a while but I found it too sadistic and twisted to really enjoy. Marv storyline, as many people have said, was the best by far.
Also, being a film-noir fan, I was expecting much better dialog and use of narration.
So overall, I personally found it worth a watch but ultimately not all that satisfying/engaging.
The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou
#1251 posted by . [68.255.58.186] on 2005/07/22 02:12:07
I'm not sure what drew me to watch this subtle comedy or whatever it is... maybe to see Bill Murray acting again.
It wasn't worth watching. It's just an eccentric little movie with a few mildly amusing dialogue bits but nothing more. I didn't catch it's motive. Maybe the entire movie was just an all-too-subtle story for me...
Hmmm...
#1252 posted by Bal [83.199.2.53] on 2005/07/22 03:21:35
Actually, The Life Aquatic was one of my favorite movies this year, it was just so weird and different (and the retro music when they are in the submarine rocks, hehe).
I Was So Piss Drunk
#1253 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.6] on 2005/07/22 07:11:42
when I watched The Life Aquatic, I dont trust my own opinion.
Like when I went to see Death to Smoochie after drinking a pitcher of beer and I laughed my ass off in the theater only to watch it on cable months later, wondering, 'what the hell was I thinking? This movie is awful.'
TLA Music
#1254 posted by . [68.255.58.186] on 2005/07/22 09:58:07
Yeah it was cheesy fun.
Stuff I Saw Recently
#1255 posted by nitin [138.217.0.232] on 2005/07/23 19:07:26
Constantine - Ponderous, overblown & silly. Keanu was woeful, rachel weisz was actually pretty decent given the role but this is one of the most stupidly scripted and directed films in a while. Visuals are ok, I wasnt all that impressed.
The most annoying thing is it takes itself so seriously.
Oldboy - Pretty impressive stuff. Even more so when you consider the script is a bit silly and as high concept as most US blockbusters. However, the direction is very well done and the main actor commands a lot of presence. The last half hour doesnt work as well as it should, probably because I thought the twist was telegraphed way too early and obviously.
But the craftsmanship and storytelling skill are definitely of a very high quality.
A Letter to Three Wives - Felt very much like a warmup to All About Eve for Mankiewicz. Decent performances, assured direction and some clever dialogue make up for some unecessary and oveblown melodrama. Not as good as Eve but worth a watch.
Films
#1256 posted by Kinn [81.152.115.115] on 2005/07/24 05:34:51
Batman Begins. Yeah, this was si teh rock - better than any of the last batch of batman films. Still had it's fair share of cliches though. I didn't like the way the nerdy guy gets to drive the batmobile at the end (cue shots of said nerdy guy going "whoah!" a lot as he struggles to control the batmobile). We also got the obligatory shot of random bystander staring into his drink in disbelief after seeing the batmobile whizz past, but apart from that the film kicked arse.
War of the Worlds. One of Spielberg's best, and my opinion of Tom Cruise as an actor has definately gone up after seeing this. Although it winds down towards the end, most of the film is just one spectacular Spielbergian set-piece after another. Watching the beautifully-shot, indiscriminate, and disturbingly cathartic mass extermination of the human race has never been so entertaining. It's also dark as fuck for a "summer blockbuster" but that's Spielberg's influence for you.
And Some More
#1257 posted by nitin [138.217.0.35] on 2005/07/28 04:07:27
My Sassy Girl - another pretty impressive korean film. For most of its running time, its likable, amusing, well made but ultimately disposable. However, the last 15 min take it up a few notches into the pretty good territory. In fact, I'd say the last 15 min is some of the best scripted and acted passages that I have seen in a film from this genre. And the lead actress is hot.
Picnic at Hanging Rock - Also a pretty good film. It has quite a few moments where there is some quite shoddy acting and the script's a bit thin, especially in the last half hour or so but the direction by Peter Weir is first rate. Combining excellent cinematography with some nifty music, he manages to create a lot of mood and atmosphere in a polanski mixed with some antoinini kind of way (in fact, it's hard not to thinkof L'Avventura when watching this). While the movie centers aroun Hanging Rock, its very very good, the rest of it is average to above average at best.
And Again
#1258 posted by nitin [138.217.0.35] on 2005/07/30 05:46:35
Appleseed (2004) - Recentish anime made entirely in 3d with cel shaded characters to give them a 2d look. Comes complete with requisite ponderous, overblown, cliche sci-fi story. But in anime, I'm generally really attracted by the visuals.
In that department, this is a mixed bag. The characters look pretty good, and the 2d shading on 3d models works quite well. the backgrounds however were disappointing IMHO. They just looked like very dodgy CGI and the artwork/design just wasnt that attractive/memorable. As the story wasnt engaging either, I came out of it pretty underwhelmed.
L'Eclisse - Final part of Michaelangelo Antonioni's loose trilogy around the theme of alienation (the other two being L'Avventura and La Notte). While La Note's usually regarded as the weakest, I actually thought this was the toughest one to really get into.
It's beautfiully shot as usual by Antonioni (further enhancedby the absolutely magnificent video transfer by criterion) and Monica Vitti puts in a good perfromance but combined they only held my interest for the first hour or so. After that, I found it pretty tough to care. Most of that really stems from the fact that there's really no narrative whatsoever. Some films work with that element missing, and this worked for an hour like I said but in the end, it just didnt work out.
#1259 posted by nitin [138.217.0.35] on 2005/08/05 22:30:35
Closer - Pretty good film with strong performances and good script. Nifty ending too, which ties most the themes in the film together quite well. Suffered a bit from not flowing all that well but a good film regardless. Clive Owen was easily the standout.
Finding Neverland - Self consciously happy and gentle, but Johnny Depp grabs it by the throat and single handedly lifts it into the pretty good territory. He handles many scenes with great subtlety where shouting/overacting could have been justified. Beautifully shot too, especially the pirate dream sequence with the funky water.
Queen Margot - Best way to describe the is some sort of french epic blockbuster. Its well shot, mostly well acted and has some great scenes. But it's hampered by some poor performances in key roles and also a very messy narrative (which admittedly might not be so distracting if you were familiar with the characters and the time period). In the end, it comes across as poorly as most recent US epics.
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf - Brilliant! Awesome script, awesome acting, great direction. Easy to see the similarities between this and Closer even though they're almost 40 yrs apart. In fact, Closer almost comes across as a more modern sequel. But this is by far the superior film. Only flaw would be perhaps a *slightly* overlong running time.
War Of Teh Worlds
#1260 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/08/06 11:51:59
First 3/4 are really good. Tripods are genuinely powerful and menacing. Build-up is great. But what I like the most is how gritty it is compared to most big blockbusters - seeing the trauma and shock and the human side of it - like the guy ripping his hands trying to get into the car, the girl screaming with shock, the ferry cable ripping through those left behind - good stuff. Also liked the crazy flaming train that went past. I saw ID recently and it fucking blew compared to this - so LITE, so WEAK. So yeah big ups to WOTW for getting a bit more grimey on us, it's good, hopefully this will be part of a trend for more gripping blockbusters.
Unfortunately the last 1/4 is a lot weaker, doesn't really go anywhere, from a pretty tense situation under the house it's suddenly a combination of: action hero saves the day + barely explored event stops the tripods + happy ending. The organic stuff across the world wasn't as gnarly as it should have been either. The last bit....just didn't continue the pace of the earlier bit, and glossed over how things went without any exploration of interesting aspects nor any continuation of the earlier darkness. A pity as it could have been wrapped up well pretty easily. But still, overall a good film. W3rd.
I Recently Saw
#1261 posted by nitin [138.217.0.35] on 2005/08/07 06:51:43
Windstruck - Reunion of the My Sassy Girl team, but this time it's an absolute disaster. Never knowing what it wants to be, this ends up being a very incohesive, contrived and generally uninvolving film.
Jun Ji Hyun is talented and extremely hot, but this role highlights her limited range. Shs is very unconvincing as a police officer. Also, the directions is rather pedestrian save once scene (dancing in the rain) which is well done. And I dont know th reasoning behind the ending, but it is a very bad decision (probably because all it ends up doing is remind you how much better My Sassy Girl was).
Brothers Grimm
#1262 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.34.26] on 2005/08/07 18:16:28
That movie looks really cool, just saw commercials for it and it's the only movie in a while that got me interested. Will try to go see it when it comes out, plus Ben Affleck's friend is generally a happy kinda guy in movies, so ... yeah.
I've Just Finished
#1263 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.167] on 2005/08/07 20:43:38
Bourne Supremecy -- nice cinematography all the way around. Great shots of Moscow and Berlin dominated the entire movie. I know, most people go for the acting, and Ben Affleck's friend is certainly good at that, but I've already read the novel, so the car chases and exterior camera were really what got my attention, and Julia Stiles crying.
I find Julia Stiles in tears a very enjoyable experience because she turns the traumatic break down into high artistic expression. I don't know what school she learned her chops, but wow, she can make that face of hers plummet threw the through-ways of oblivion.
I would like to date her just so I could break up with her and see that exquisite gift of hers up close and personal.
Ha! 'Threw'
#1264 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.167] on 2005/08/07 20:50:33
as in threw up, but 'through' still makes more since.
Lord Of The Rings
#1265 posted by jess [210.49.186.246] on 2005/08/08 01:28:52
LOTR is a very good film because it lets us escape from the world and think of things from another person's point of view... i mean if we think we have problems look at Frodo a litle kid who has been given all the responsibility in the world.. and he does not fall from the task at hand.. he grows up quickly as he looks after himself and his new friends. he overcomes all these problems and still keeps some sanity.
Little Kid? Eh?
#1266 posted by BlackDog [220.235.136.116] on 2005/08/08 02:53:20
Try aged fifty. If you've read the book, anyway.
#1267 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.34.26] on 2005/08/08 09:32:10
I thought he was like 33. And Bilbo was like 133.A Long Expected Party or somesuch.
Blackdog:
#1268 posted by metlslime [67.180.175.229] on 2005/08/08 12:14:48
sure, but hobbits mature even slower than human boys!
So
#1269 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.34.26] on 2005/08/08 14:21:53
A 33 year old hobbit is like a 10 year old boy??? FINALLY A LOOPHOLE!!!!
/end pedo
Time Travelling Hobbits And Other Stories
#1270 posted by Preach [86.129.212.126] on 2005/08/08 14:54:48
My understanding was that in the book a long time passed between Bilbo's eleventeenth birthday and the war of the ring/Frodo setting out, so he was about 50 when he left. In the film they changed this for pacing reasons, so Frodo only had the ring for a few months before he set out to destroy it. Sorry to disappoint, Zwiffle...
#1271 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.34.26] on 2005/08/08 20:37:53
50 is still like 15 in hobbit years, right?
And More
#1272 posted by nitin [138.217.0.35] on 2005/08/09 03:47:04
Il Mare- Quite good korean film which relies more on mood than anything else. The slow style suits the story but the ending falls into the familiar paradox pitfalls that plague most time travel films. Still worth watching.
Memories of Murder - Excellent film based around the investigation into Korea's first serial killings. Seven and Silence of the Lambs aside, this is better than most serial killer films that come out of the US and is easily one of the more intelligent films in the genre.
Il Mare
#1273 posted by Blitz [65.96.61.71] on 2005/08/09 16:35:22
I heard about that one somewhere else, and it looked really good. I'll try and find it now that it has the nitin approval.
War Of The Worlds
#1274 posted by [84.204.107.79] on 2005/08/10 16:43:22
spot on, sham
but rewatching it at home on dvd was kinda boring
Hi
#1275 posted by jojo [68.248.253.118] on 2005/08/10 16:48:08
hi
3-iron
#1276 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/08/17 03:04:32
Korean film by Kim Ki-Duk and its a very low key but enthralling movie for the slowly but effectively built first two thirds. Its an unusual story with hardly any dialogue between the two leads but the writing, acting and cinematography are strong enough to get you into it.
Then comes the last third, which depending on your own point of view, will either make you appreciate the film more or, like me, or will make you wish the initial premise was stuck to.
I thought the last third came off as showy and pretentious while the first two thirds were effortless in their engagement.
Still, worth a watch, chances are more people than not will like the last act more than me.
Views?
#1277 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/08/17 12:17:42
The Descent - any good? I used to like the odd bit of horror (well, Hellraiser anyway), but watching Event Horizon scared so many shades of crap out of me that I haven't watched any since. I've heard The Descent is pretty good and quite scary - would it be worth a look as an example of the modern horror film?
Shambler
#1278 posted by nitin at work [139.168.37.205] on 2005/08/17 21:40:49
daz posted his thoughts (he liked it) earlier on.
And scared by Event Horizon? Was that sarcasm or seriousness?
Bleh
#1279 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/08/18 02:39:52
Finally, took long enough to find Daz's comments.
Anyone else got any??
And yes, I'm serious, myself and a friend saw it in the cinema and although were we both blase about violence, horror etc etc, it freaked us out no end. In fact I had to go home and play Quake for 6 hours solid before I could sleep =). Yeah so some film buffs might be "whatever" about it, but I've been somewhat vindicated that whenever the subject of scary films is raised online amongst the supposedly unshockable gaming/internet community, EH always gets mentioned as something that freaked people out. So, there :P
Easy On The Shambler
#1280 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.141] on 2005/08/18 05:20:32
It was a weak movie, plot wise, but I agree, it was also pretty damn scary.
Event Horizon?
#1281 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/08/18 14:20:16
yeah, it really was scary, at least until about the halfway mark. Then it got really silly.
Harold And Maude
#1282 posted by pope [154.5.27.236] on 2005/08/18 23:12:34
loved it, just fucking loved it.
C'mon it has a Jaguar automobile converted into a hearse!! Bud Corts' character 'Harold' is phenomenal, spot on, all that and a bit more.
there's also quite the underlying story that is explained only after putting together a lot of the details maude gives about her life/past.
http://imdb.com/title/tt0067185/
Yeppers
#1283 posted by pjw [67.129.250.254] on 2005/08/19 10:17:04
Harold and Maude does indeed kick much ass. Probably in my top 20 or so...
Seul Contre Tous
#1284 posted by bambuz [130.233.220.23] on 2005/08/22 11:09:08
I saw this movie in a theatre when it came out in 1998.
It's called "I Stand Alone" in USA and is directed by Gaspar Noe.
It's a picture of a french butcher. I hate when the plot is exposed so I just say that you should watch it. (to all people over 18 and mentally stable). It's quite brutal, but that's not the point in it. It's also not beautiful at all. I still think it's highly worth watching. I haven't seen other movies quite like this although several have tried to do that kind of stuff after this movie's success, but they have missed the point and just ran on violence. I think it tries to portray a person's mind, where movies are often really bad at.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt015701...
The Seventh Seal
#1285 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/08/24 06:38:56
I thought I may as well make Bergman's most famous film my second viewing of his work. This was very impressive, I cant quite put my finger on what aspect(s) of this I liked, but on the whole this was extremely well made. A little more understatment in some bits would have made this even greater.
There Is Something
#1286 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.135] on 2005/08/24 10:41:01
very elemental about that movie.
#1287 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/08/26 19:58:27
The Interpreter - Not a bad film, but just not very good either. It's competently made, acted and directed but is never really involving, mostly due to a bland script. All involved have done better.
The Interpreter
#1288 posted by inertia [134.53.108.1] on 2005/08/26 23:10:42
I found to be good, but focused too much on character development and not enough on the more interesting political side... it could have carried more of "a message," as opposed to tragedies involving specific people.
Of course, political messages don't survive too long in the media without some interesting personalities to communicate it :)
It Takes A Rare Artist,
#1289 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.179] on 2005/08/27 00:09:19
a Graham Greene or an Ayn Rand who can orient their art around a political credo without killing the art. Le Carre for one is one who couldn't. His early works like The Spy Who Came In From The Cold took place in a political
milieu but were not at all ideological, and they were damn good, but his later works suffers from trying to be politicaly relevant.
Except for documentaries, I prefer the guilds of Hollywood to stay far away from politics because they often don't have enough awareness of history or social reality to know what they are talking about, like the Robert Redford movie Havana which casts the ousted dictator Batista, a black man in life, as a blonde haired, blue eyed villian (Kaufman, the director, sincerely did not know).
Documetaries are a different story. Fahrenheit 911*, Waco: Rules of Engagement, Atomic Cafe, all were worth seeing (even if you think Moore is a punk, like I do, the movie is still worth seeing).
Interpreter
#1290 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/08/27 02:10:55
well I didnt mind the character building stuff, that was actually done well, but the thriller aspect of it was non-existant. There was zero suspense and some rather truck sized plot holes.
Graham Greene was demonstrated well in the recent The Quiet American. Captured the political aspect well despite apparing to be about 3 characters and their experiences.
Some More
#1291 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/08/27 23:42:23
Under Suspicion - Overdircected, badly scripted and terribly scored thriller with Hackman, Freeman and Bellucci. Only saving grace is semi-decent performances and a stunning looking Bellucci.
Amores Perros - Outstanding.
Mexican director Alejandro Innarritu hit a home run with 21 grams but this, his first film, is similar in theme and style but perhaps better orchestrated. Its very confronting and at 154 min, a little too long, but one that is very hard to forget.
And Some Godard
#1292 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/08/31 01:37:52
Contempt - This is one of the more uninvolving things I've seen in a while and I wouldnt recommend it to most people. But, if you're into ideas, this is well worth a watch because there's definitely quite a few neat ideas and concepts on display here.
As for the film itself, theres an extended conversation sequence much like the one in Breathless which is just as good, but apart from that there's nothing more to really like.
Worth watching for ideas (and brigitte bardot), but not really for the film.
Solaris
#1293 posted by bambuz [130.233.220.23] on 2005/09/01 02:43:10
The old soviet version is good (it's color so seventies). Natalie Bondarchuk is amazing. The movie is a bit long and slow and some "artsy" scenes don't really fit but overall, it's a mind-moving experience. It is somewhat faithful to the book, but it's mostly ok in that aspect, which is rare.
Recommended.
I haven't completely seen the new hollywood version, but from the first half, it seems they've missed quite a lot of points in general feeling, although it gets better with time.
No comment.
I've read the book twice, first when I was maybe seventeen and now later as twenty-something. It felt very different on both times. On the first time, I couldn't identify with the psychological problems of the characters, while on the latter time it's scary how much similarities one finds in one's own life and actions.
Solaris And Stalker (original Russian Ones)
#1294 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/09/01 03:35:33
I just got a hold of both the other day and intend to see.
Is Stalker the game based on the film/book ?
Nitin
#1295 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.180.235] on 2005/09/01 07:08:47
This is from the Stalker website:
Q: What inspired the creation of the game?
A: Quite a few things, deliberately or not, have an influence on developers. Speaking about computer games, we can say that the "three whales" which have inspired the developers of "S.T.A.L.K.E.R" are "Elite", "Daggerfall" and, of course, "Fallout". The Zone's atmosphere is based on Strugatsky brothers' book "Roadside Picnic", and the movie "Stalker", directed by Tarkovsky, based on the Strugatsky brothers' script.
Lol
#1296 posted by bambuz [130.233.220.23] on 2005/09/01 07:32:38
have you read the strugatskis' book stalker? It clearly inspires the game. Some effects seen in the dx9 demo are directly from it.
Uwe Boll + The Rock = Far Cry
#1297 posted by . [70.224.226.164] on 2005/09/02 10:09:44
http://www.1up.com/do/feature?page...
And it looks like 9/10 times he's blaming some part of the industry for his film failures than himself.
Oh Man...
#1298 posted by Maric [70.22.61.47] on 2005/09/02 13:10:47
Phait, that has got to be one of the most hilarious things that I have read in ages. There is a whole lot of finger-pointing and excue making going... YOIKS!
That is an example of denial on parade.
*SIGH*
#1299 posted by Maric [70.22.61.47] on 2005/09/02 13:13:41
Be good lads and add an "s" in that last post of mine... would ya'?
No excuse in spelling sexcues worng wryte?
Some More
#1300 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/09/04 03:48:10
Kagemusha - Big, epic scaled film from Kurosawa that is very similar in style to Ran. In fact, a lot of it seems like practice for Ran. It's not quite the masterpiece that Ran is, but on its own is quite a good film. Quite overlong at 180 min, it sometimes gets a bit too bogged down, but is a refershing change from the modern hollywood epic.
Heavenly Creatures - The movie that put Peter Jackson on the map, even though nobody really knew who he was until LOTR.
It's easy to see why, its an inventive look at a disturbing true story with impressive peformances. However, I thought a lot of it was overdirected and many scenes could have done with more understatement/subtlety. The last 20 min are lyrical in their simplicity, and chilling in their effectiveness. More of the movie could have done with that sort of direction.
Down by Law - A strange, raw, familiar and languid film from Jim Jarmusch. Gloriously shot, extremely moody and impeccably acted with some clever humour, it's hard not to like even though there is absolutely zero plot.
Doom Movie Poster
#1301 posted by . [70.224.242.132] on 2005/09/11 12:51:16
Ready?
http://www.impawards.com/2005/doom...
Christ...
Some More
#1302 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/09/13 02:03:45
Rififi - French film noir by Jules Dassin and a pretty good one. Well made and acted, the only thing that stopped it going into the very good - great category was the fact that noirs have cool dialogue and in this case, it didnt have the same impact since I was reading it rather than hearing it.
The Innocents - Gloriously gothic and filled with atmosphere. But the script (I understand its adpetd pretty well from a book) is not that great. There is zero mystery and barring one or two scenes hardly any suspense. And the ending (or rather the execution) is very silly. Pity, because it's well made, acted and shot.
Also, its influence on many films, especially The Others is easy to see.
French
#1303 posted by bambuz [130.233.220.23] on 2005/09/13 03:01:32
I've had one or two courses of french at high school, and it's surprising how much you understand out of movies if you have the text there to help you out. I don't know if you speak much french, but if you don't and like that movie stuff, I'd recommend taking a few courses so you get the basics. After all a lot of english and latin words are the same as in french so it's easy to deduce what they speak, and you learn some more if you have your native language text and the original speech there.
Bambuz
#1304 posted by nitin [138.217.4.215] on 2005/09/13 03:06:44
I know a fair bit of french from school but when people converse in their native language, they talk a lot lot faster!
Yeah
#1305 posted by bambuz [130.233.220.23] on 2005/09/13 03:26:42
sorry, I didn't know if you knew french. But I think watching with subtitles where you see the thing before they say it makes understanding easier / remotely possible in some instances where they don't talk so much. Although it might hurt the feeling a bit.
I've Noticed...
#1306 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/09/13 18:44:48
Even knowing very little Japanese gives me a little more insight into subtitled Japanese movies. Especially when the subtitles are not a literal translation, I think you get a little more out of it by seeing one and hearing the other.
Err...
#1307 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2005/09/13 20:36:29
...why is there an 'Alien' in the Doom movie poster?
LOL
#1308 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2005/09/13 23:20:45
distrans: you're right: there's an 'Alien' in the Doom movie poster !! God, there're back as well...
#1309 posted by bambuz [130.233.220.23] on 2005/09/14 03:03:10
how alieny of an imp..
Blame
#1310 posted by Kinn [86.128.40.82] on 2005/09/14 13:20:20
id's hellknight head design for that
#1311 posted by nitin [138.217.5.178] on 2005/09/17 19:24:46
The Talented Mr Ripley - Ok, its overlong, a little overdirected in parts but I still found it to be quite enjoyable thanks to the performances, the settings and a smart enough script.
Rio Bravo - Also overlong, has quite contrived plot points and fairly stereotypical characters, but this western from Howard Hawks is still quite entertaining.
Cinema Paradiso - I just didnt like this. I know I'm probably in the minority, but I thought this was just overly-sentimental tosh. I'd bought the R1 DVD to check out both cuts but since I saw the shorter theatrical and didnt think much of it, I'm not going to bother with the director's cut.
Also, I should mention, that despite all that I didnt like about this movie, the ending is a perfectly judged and executed scene.
#1312 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/02 04:44:12
Cape Fear (1991) - I dont know if it was entirely deliberate but I found this to be gloriously campy and if it was all intentional, it was a masterstroke to go over the top in every department. I havent seen the original but this is not strictly a remake, it's more of a semi-serious parody.
If, on the other hand, this was not intended tongue in cheek, I dont know what Martin Scorsese was thinking.
Corpse Bride
#1313 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.180.235] on 2005/10/02 07:43:22
Worth seeing?
I Remember Scorcese's Interviews
#1314 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.251] on 2005/10/02 12:05:30
at the time, he meant it to be over the top in every way. I loved it, that lurid, EC comics feel . The camera work feels like it was shot using gamma rays. Half the cast should be dead from cancer mutations by now.
Headthump
#1315 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/03 03:10:35
good to hear.
And yes, quite a lot of it was shot on acid.
Had A Day Off Work
#1316 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/05 17:54:04
Through a Glass Darkly - Part of bergman's loose trilogy along with The Silence and the far superior Winter Light. This one had some good acting and cinematography but the direction was too heavy handed and despite being 87 min, it felt 10-15 min far too long.
Above average fare from the great director.
La Dolce Vita - Once I'd gotten over the shoddy sound design and the dodgy dubbing used for some actors, I started enjoying it a bit more.
But, I dont get it. There's some memeorable sequences and nice scenes but, as a whole, this just didnt work for me. And at 160 min, it began to get frustrating
Birth
#1317 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/06 08:45:04
Extremely well made and shot, with very good performances. It also features a script with a bit of a copout last act.
Luckily, the limp finish doesnt completely detract from the rest of the quality on offer and it still ends being a decent film overall.
#1318 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/10 02:36:06
The Scarlett Empress - Heavily flawed but very watchable movie with Marlene Dietrich as Catherine of Russia. Most notable aspect and drawcard are the very impressive costume designs and sets that put a lot of recent productions to shame.
Nochnoy Dozor
#1319 posted by negke [85.176.83.182] on 2005/10/14 07:46:54
anyone seen it?
the trailer looks interesting...
.
#1320 posted by gone [213.170.89.98] on 2005/10/14 09:59:18
La Dolce Vita is one the best movies ever
maybe not for everyone. old but gold
Nochnoy Dozor (night watch) is bleh, honestly
casting sux, script is a mess (based on quite good but very legthy book)
picture is nice, some cool camera\directing
Its ok-ish, nothing more
whatever I watched lately..
blade3 (got this by accident) - sux big time, boring and very forgetable
closer - unconvincing, clive owen fails
The Island (with mcGregor) alot of nobrainer/commonplace in the plot, but really entertaining with good stunts and chases, prolly best action Iv seen this year
Nitin
#1321 posted by gone [213.170.89.98] on 2005/10/14 10:10:11
Amores Perros is very good indeed.
Tarkovsky` stalker movie has nothing to do with action really. The game could borrow only some ideas for the setting. It’s quite a philosophic flick, Im afraid a lot of it is lost in translation.
Speaking of Solaris - I love the original, but the american version is not bad, surprisingly.
(And the book did nothing for me - I dont even remember much of it)
Serenity And Other
#1322 posted by Tron [202.7.183.132] on 2005/10/14 10:15:54
Serenity:
Saw one episode of Firefly and didn't like it. Decided to give the movie a try and it bloody ruled. Definitely one of the better sf movies I have seen in a fair while and has inspired me to give the series another chance when I see it cheap on DVD.
Pride and Prejudice:
*sigh*, yeah I know, but I got dragged along with my girlfriend. Never actually seen any previous version of this so can't say how it compares, but there are some truly hideous edits and camera shot choices. I'm not a cinematography buff at all but even I cringed at the cheesiness of how some of the shots were filmed. Guess most of us wouldn't like it but your historical romance buffs (ie women) will lap it up.
Speedy
#1323 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/14 22:22:27
I dont know, Dolce Vita just didnt click with me.
I intend on watching the original Solaris this weekend actually. I've heard the american version's not bad (soderbergh and clonney work well together generally) but have only heard good things about the original.
I Loved Dolce Vita As Well
#1324 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.197] on 2005/10/14 22:32:00
There needs to be made an over the top, garish, cocaine scene American version. No, I mean it.
Funny U Mention
#1325 posted by spd [84.204.117.203] on 2005/10/15 08:24:02
there is Russian version (somewhat different) of Dolce Vita, not a bad one
Headthump
#1326 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/15 21:54:23
"There needs to be made an over the top, garish, cocaine scene American version"
Scarface
Mmm
#1327 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.133] on 2005/10/15 22:40:42
makes you want to drop everything, fill up the tank, and head down to Miami.
Just don't blow your own snow.
Weekend Viewings
#1328 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/15 22:54:52
The Uninvited - korean "horror" film whihc is really more a psychogical drama rather than a horror movie. As a former, it works reasonably well with good direction and acting. But, the script, is really what should be a ough draft and not a final cut. It's overlong by about 30 mins and a little scattered and incoherent. With some more judicious editing, this could have been a very good film rather than an above avergae one.
Solaris - Saw the russian version on the weekend like I planned to. Outstanding stuff.
It drags a little in some parts, but is quality all the way apart from that. The ending is fabulous and I'm now keen to check out the remake, just to see what's kept and what's not.
To speedy and anyone else that's seen it, do you know the reasoning behind the colour/b&w shooting. This is one movie where I couldnt work otu why it was done.
Serenity
#1329 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.180.235] on 2005/10/16 09:53:18
I enjoyed it. I didn't even know it's based on a TV show, so it's very accesible. I didn't really like paying $8 for a ticket, though.
B&w Shooting
#1330 posted by gone [213.170.89.98] on 2005/10/17 03:32:14
I dont rememer what was in b&w
Re: PAYMENT AUTHENTICATION.
#1331 posted by Dr.Stanley Buba [212.199.108.236] on 2005/10/17 06:00:45
Dr.Stanley Buba
Chairman Foreign Contract Award Committee(NNPC)
17/10/2005
Maputo Street Zone 3
Victoria Island- Lagos-Nigeria.
Dear Sir ,
I SPAM THEREFORE I AM
Re: PAYMENT AUTHENTICATION.
#1332 posted by Dr.Stanley Buba [212.199.108.236] on 2005/10/17 06:01:21
Dr.Stanley Buba
Chairman Foreign Contract Award Committee(NNPC)
17/10/2005
Maputo Street Zone 3
Victoria Island- Lagos-Nigeria.
Dear Sir ,
Is MC Frontalot for real?
The Solarisses
#1333 posted by bambuz [130.233.243.228] on 2005/10/17 07:47:51
the american version seems too "clean" although I haven't yet seen all of it...
the russian version had some strange parts like the really long pointless car-driving scene.
I liked the book the most - on second reading.
Yeah
#1334 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/17 07:52:31
that car scene reminded me a lot of 2001 and its imagery.
LOL
#1335 posted by pjw [66.188.121.83] on 2005/10/17 17:03:57
@ Nigerian scam posting on func_, and the "kept secret forever" on a public message board is pretty solid as well.
I actually liked Cinema Paradiso. But yeah, I tend toward the overly-sentimental if I'm not careful.
I get all choked up at the drop of a hat and am easily manipulated by tear-jerk tactics. So it goes.
#1336 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/19 07:20:38
seen a lot of tv stuff over the last month or so :
24 Season 3 - easily the weakest of the seasons, some preposterous plotting and unecessary subplots. Given the scripting it had though, it made a decent fist out of it.
6.5/10
24 Season 4 - A welcome return to form. It's almost as if the writers finally acknowledged that the novelty had worn off and the show had become a slave to its format. So to combat this, they upped the ante in terms of action, twists and stakes. As good as if not better than Season 1, though for completely different reasons.
8/10
Six Feet Under season 3 - The show changed trajectory this season and the results were hit and miss. For every thing that was done well, something else was done poorly. The last 4 episodes are a knockout bunch though. Still, it was weaker than the much stronger first two seasons.
6.5/10
Six Feet Under Season 4 - The decline continues. Personally, I thought the show just turned into high grade soap opera by this point. Some good episodes (david and the hitchiker) but overall the weakest season I've seen.
5.5/10
Spooks Season 1 - competently made BBC spy series, nothing really wrong with it overall. But it's much too cliche for all the reverence it receives.
6.5/10
Entourage Season 1 - Decent series about the life of an up and coming movie star with not much talent, a killer agent, and some leechy friends. Sets up nicely and could be a real winner if the writing becomes sharper.
7/10
The Thing
#1337 posted by bambuz [130.233.243.228] on 2005/10/21 05:24:16
you know, the John Carpenter Antarctica base scifi/horror movie. It was on telly last night. I didn't see it from the beginning, and I've seen it partly before, but it was pretty good to watch again.
They don't do such movies anymore. This is from 1982.
I don't know what is different... I guess the special effects here were still mostly to support the story and not an act itself, although they were a bit cheesy at a few places. Then also, the people acted pretty rationally feeling and felt reserved, and the surrounding base was very no-frills. No cheesy high technology there.
And there were no women in the film to distract the plot.
It's based on a fifties scifi story. I guess the whole thing is just that it's more "adult" than modern scifi movies. The plot had some sidetracks that were good, necessary and consistent, so it felt "realistic". Plus the hero, "Mac" played by the Snake Plissken guy was a good good guy - such actors with some peculiar character are not made anymore, but the casting just selects some generic hunks.
Just Got Back From Seeing Doom...
#1338 posted by pjw [67.129.250.254] on 2005/10/21 14:56:12
...and while it didn't suck balls as badly as I was led to believe it would, it certainly wasn't what I would call a good movie. :)
Kinda cheesy and kinda predictable, cookie-cutter characters, an elite military team that continually does really stupid things, slow to get started, and with a "first-person-cam" sequence that actually embarrassed me in a dark movie theater.
The BFG effect was cool, and some of the fight sequences were fun. Meh.
Bambuz
#1339 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/21 18:38:18
yeah, it actually had suspense and a script, that's the main difference. The effects were a bit hit and miss but it's a pretty nifty movie.
The Thing
#1340 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.218] on 2005/10/21 19:08:18
That is a good one. So is the original The Fog with its slow, malevolent atmosphere. Has anyone seen the remake yet?
Headthump:
#1341 posted by metlslime [209.213.199.133] on 2005/10/21 19:11:17
The Fog with its slow, malevolent atmosphere
That was intentional, right?
It Is An Empty Day
#1342 posted by HeadThump [65.140.57.223] on 2005/10/21 21:19:42
without a 'mal' to pre/fix things.
Hauru No Ugoku Shiro/Howl's Moving Castle
#1343 posted by cyBeAr [80.217.112.208] on 2005/10/22 04:37:57
Finally made it to the theatres here and it's fantastic even if the ending is too abrupt. Adorable characters and lots of really cool and weird designs.
Oh Yeah Howl's
#1344 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/10/23 11:31:05
I forgot I went to see that.
Not as good as you know what but still nice fun film with, as the bear says, lots of cute designs and cool stuff, and a pleasing sense of dislocation. Ending was a bit weak though even if it was tongue-in-cheek, could have been a bit darker.
Good to watch a straight up plain fun film really.
Wallace & Gromit - Curse Of The Were-Rabbit
#1345 posted by bambuz [130.233.243.228] on 2005/10/24 07:04:09
I was quite depressed and detached from reality before I went to see this movie but it changed my mind.
First it annoyed the hell out of me when the audience was laughing at every crappy cliche joke, but then the movie started rolling and it was so nice to notice so many small details in the scenes and sets that were so funny.
I had read a few lines of a "critique" in some newspaper and it had already spoiled half of the plot, but the movie worked nevertheless. I always hate such articles.
I really wonder how they do all those sets to be so good-looking. Computer game makers could learn from that - some things were so cute and lively animated too that it was impossible to think of them as clay - even if you often saw the fingerprints on Gromit's forehead.
Stay
#1346 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.180.235] on 2005/10/24 07:22:59
Stay makes my head spin. Cool scene transitions, though.
Stuff
#1347 posted by nitin [138.217.5.187] on 2005/10/29 23:39:56
Alias Season 3 - contrary to popular belief, I thought the show had already started its decline in the much loved season 2. That decline continues further in this season, with the whole rambaldi thing going way out of control, and a major twist that doesnt seem to have been thought through. And they relegated the best asset they had, ron rifkin's Arvin Sloane to a lesser supporting role.
Scrubs Season 1 - Maybe it was a case of too much expectation, as this came highly recommended, but I thought this was trying way too hard (eg voiceovers outlining everything braff is thinking/feeling when sufficient acting and comic timing would have done the same) and is only psuedo-witty.
Some nice bits, but lacking overall.
A Very Long Engagment - I've always found Jean Pierre Jeunet to be an extremely self-indulgent director who is as shamelessly and forcefully manipulative in his sentimentality as the more heavily criticised Spielberg.
He is a fine visual artist but the rest of his director's canon has a rather scattershot approach.
Amelie was a good film, mainly because he had Audrey Tatou, but she is badly miscast in this movie. Not that her character is given much to do apart from appearing sad and smile very now and then.
The script is an absolute mess, there are plenty of subplots and chracters but it seems as if Jeunet decided that giving his characters unique idiosyncracies sufficed for character development.
On top of all that, the visual style of the film, although gorgeous in its own right, does not fit well with the content of the film.
The one aspect that works is a well realised ending, which although predictable, is pulled off well.
#1348 posted by nitin [138.217.2.237] on 2005/11/08 02:19:44
Lost Season 1 - pretty good overall but the shot in the kneecap pacing is evident even on dvd.
I didnt mind the flashbacks but its *extensive* use as a storytelling device was lazy writing.
More interestingly, now that the characters are pretty well built, if season 2 continues with the same flashback orientated structure, that's a sign the show doesnt really know where it's going. If they have it laid out, then the pacing can afford to pickup as characters are well established.
Oldish Movies
#1349 posted by bambuz [130.233.243.228] on 2005/11/08 06:32:39
Some sick sunday morning i watched telly and it showed "country girl". Black & white, from 1956 or so, with grace kelly, william holden and bing crosby. Funny how those old movies are so much based on the strong characters and everything else is just a blurry background. Very much contrast to newer movies. And the old actors have strong peculiar character and charisma, I think it's mainly since they had live performance and theater backgrounds, but I might be wrong.
Maybe that kind of powerful acting wouldn't work in modern day movies. Every scene starts with someone lighting a cigarette.
Two Films.
#1350 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/11/24 07:52:19
Serenity - entertaining sci-fi, definitely felt like part of a series, which is good as it feels like it has a strong background, but bad because it has a bit of that "soft" Star Trek feel to it, kinda weak technological spectacle too. Still, a good film overall, quite good characters in it, and a nice sense of mystery.
Night Watch - another entertaining film (Russian fantasy thriller thing), although this time because of the style and OTT effects and camera work (sometimes too OTT). Really a load of nonsense, but entertaining and stylish nonsense with a decent atmosphere. Again, had a "part of a series" feel, which added to the background.
Broken Flowers
#1351 posted by Vondur [195.128.95.36] on 2005/11/24 08:11:43
Broken Flowers by Jim Jarmusch feat. Bill Murray.
Well, being a fain of the JJ i liked thjis movie too. I liekd the main idea of it and the excellent play of the Murray. Being good Don Juan in the past and end up being lonely old fart sucks ;)
Shambler
#1352 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/11/25 00:08:19
I believe nightwatch is the first part of a three movie series.
And vondur, I've been hanging for that one to be released here in australia.
Anyone Watch Deadwood?
#1353 posted by Tronyn [24.66.94.144] on 2005/11/25 01:13:39
I usually hate westerns but this couldn't be further from the good guys vs bad guys scenario that makes me hate 'em so much. It is much closer to a mafia show actually. I've seen all 24 episodes and it's brilliant stuff. Perhaps I like it so much because it's so extremely cynical. Violence, betrayal, illegality lurking behind the appearance of the law, corruption, prostitution, drugs - it's all there. For some reason the new season doesn't come out until next september, and I don't think season 2 is on DVD yet, but check out season one. Dark, adult, psychological drama.
Deadwood
#1354 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/11/25 01:58:38
yep, it' a knockout.
On another note, finished season 2 of Arrested Development which is still pretty funny but nowhere near the almost perfect season 1. The writing is more scattershot and not as consistent resulting in a lot more cheap jokes.
But still one of the funniest shows created IMHO.
And complaining about season 2 of tv shows on dvd, where the hell is Carnivale ?? Easily the best tv show currently screening (although that's debatable since it's now cancelled) and it gets relegated to the backburner.
The Descent
#1355 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/11/25 17:08:31
This was not a great horror movie but definitely a good one. The first half buildup was excellent (although those used to the recent crop of american horrors will probably find this a bit slow) and the second half was nicely done but not as well executed as the buildup.
One annoyance was that ever-increasing trend to edit so quickly that you have no idea what the hell is going on. I know they're trying to make you feel like the character but Marshall goes overboard like most other dircetors that attempt this style.
The other annoyance was the false ending. It does leave it a bit 'open' for interpretation but I dont see why it was included.
But the claustrophobic atmosphere of the first half and the decently executed visceral second half make up for these shortcomings.
And for those wondering, yes, there is some nice gore.
Some More
#1356 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/11/27 22:53:15
The Children of Paradise - I got this blind as it was a Criterion and went in knowing nothing except that it's a highly revered French classic. I was not disappointed.
The first half is flawlessly executed, one of the best 90 min of cinema ever. Although the second half loses its way a bit and is not quite as good, this is a definite recommendation to anyone interested in films.
Bad Education - now this one has me in two minds. On the one hand, it's a nice blend of Hitchcock (especially Vertigo), noir and Almodovar's garish colours. It also features another stellar performance from Gael Garcia Bernal.
On the other hand, the script is far more concerned in its machinations, that it leaves no room to get to know the characters. We are never let into their motivations throughout the labyrinthine plot. And unfortunately, that leads to none of the scenes having much impact.
War Of The Worlds (2005)
#1357 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/02 07:15:34
This was quite good. Loved the carnage and some of the set pieces were very well executed.
On the downside, the family dynamic didnt work and was weak, and there was next to no narrative really.
But it achieves what it sets out to do and is good fun.
War Of The Worlds
#1358 posted by Tronyn [24.66.94.144] on 2005/12/02 13:55:10
uhhh
I'm glad I saw that in the cheap theatres
First half was great, dramatic, good special effects, etc
The ending, although it apparently follows the book, consists of one giant plothole in my opinion.
PSEUDO SPOILER WARNING
A species could not advance further than humans have without knowledge of disease! I mean christ, these aliens can do all of this, yet they can't think to wear BIOHAZARD SUITS, a technology that WE HAVE? I can forgive them not nuking earth as Wells was writing before that came along, but really... how could these aliens survive that long without knowing anything at all about disease. The ending was really, really weak.
Plus cruise is an insane moron. But that goes for hollywood in general - if you can think of a ridiculous, pseudo-scientific, retarded idea, then half of 'em believe it.
Not Quite Right
#1359 posted by Fat Controller [222.152.135.241] on 2005/12/02 15:48:13
that goes for hollywood in general - if you can think of a ridiculous, pseudo-scientific, retarded idea, then half of 'em believe it.
You forgot the important part: being able to keep a straight face while selling it to them.
Tronyn
#1360 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/02 16:13:11
two things :
firstly, if they went without that ending, there would have been cries of outcry ala LOTR for not sticking with the book.
secondly, I dont think it's all that unbelievable. Why would they know about the disease, their planet could have been anything unlike ours. To know anything about the disease would have meant to pay attention to all other life on earth, bacteria especially, apart from humans.
For a really silly ending which has that plothole you're referring to: Signs. Again SPOILER.
The water which the aliens are susceptible to is viewable from outer space since it covers 70% of the planet. Surely something that common and visible would have got their attention.
Star Wars - Revenge Of The Sith
#1361 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/03 01:03:51
Dear Mr Lucas, you're a visual craftsman.
This is quite possibly the best realised world put on to film yet. I didnt ever feel that this was a movie in my world, I felt as if I was actually in another world.
But all I could keep wondering when I was in this world was how little grasp of the english language the people in this world had. They talked as if they were all 13 yrs old and acted like it too. I just wanted to strangle them all and take over this world myself.
yours sincerely
6/10
ps : I'd rate it higher than return of the jedi but well below the standard of eps 4 & 5.
Hmm
#1362 posted by Bal [81.249.64.151] on 2005/12/03 05:10:06
I thought despite the great visuals in Revenge of the Sith, the actual directing was piss poor.
And well, yeah, don't get me started on the dialogue and acting. =)
Best to just skip the movies and buy the artbooks. =D
And To Finish Off Blockbuster Saturday
#1363 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/03 05:35:32
The Island - god this was awful.
Tries hard to feature a (boring and unoriginal) plot for an hour or so and then turns into a chase movie. Only one semi-decent action sequence where the action is well choregraphed but is edited into oblivion.
Stay well away.
Nitin
#1364 posted by Vigil [85.76.3.38] on 2005/12/03 17:56:14
With Michael Bay directing (the word in this case applied very loosely), I think staying away should be clear to anyone.
The Island Again
#1365 posted by Vigil [85.76.3.38] on 2005/12/03 17:57:41
Probably the best part of the movie is that some of the actors in it have been in actually good movies.
Vigil
#1366 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/03 18:09:03
yeah, I know. But I thought with ewan and scarlett, it might have at least been passable.
Island.
#1367 posted by Text_Fish [194.72.70.124] on 2005/12/04 06:11:56
The good bit was when Michael Clarke Duncan got dragged away screaming. I swear, that actor could be in the best comedy of the year and I'd still be moved. Other than that, just another shite film.
Best film of the year - Crash. It's just one of those films that I think about for ages after having watched it, trying to decipher exactly how each character changed and why. 10/10
Second best film of the year - Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. I wasn't expecting much when I went to see this, but it turned out to be a really amazing black comedy. Laugh-out-loud moments, with a bit of thinky murder mystery and some light action for good measure! 9/10.
The Constant Gardener
#1368 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/10 17:02:45
Went to the movies and saw this political conspiracy thriller starring Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz and directed by the guy who did City of God.
It showed lots of promise but unfortunately came out as above average. The overall story was pretty good but the script iself was a bit of a mess. The acting was strong, both leads were very good, but the direction was distracting and disjointed.
#1369 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/14 23:09:11
Robots - blah. Some nice animation but this is far far off from Pixar quality animated films. Very weak script.
Ikiru - I found this to be just above average. Well made and reasonably acted but far too long and heavy handed to be great. But given the status of the film, I'm obviously in the minority.
#1370 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/16 06:48:23
Ring Two - This has been panned heavily and not without reason, the script is awful (especially the anticlimax) and downright absurd.
But it's also difficult to not see director Hideo Nakata's skill. Considering the script, this is quite a well directed film. Nakata manages to weave some delightfully twisted stuff into an otherwise messy film. And despite all its faults, the script does have some interesting ideas. Having Naomi Watts, who always makes things watchable, also helps.
A definite failure, but an interesting one.
An Agreement, An Opinion, And Two Questions.
#1371 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/12/16 14:03:01
By Shambler.
1. The Agreement:
I agree that Robots was shite. Whether other such cartoons had cuteness combined with depth of perception and adult wryness, this had some cuteness combined with pure cheese.
2. The Opinion:
March Of The Penguins - I saw this recently, it was great. Almost the entire film has anything from 1 to about 2000 penguins in shot at any time, and they are very cool and cute. They waddle, shuffle, flap, scoot on their bellies, honk, kiss, stand around pondering the antartic world, and huddle together against 100mph winds. Okay so it's a documentary but since penguins are inherently cool and a lot of the footage is excellent, this was very nice.
3. The questions:
Is King Kong any good?
Is Narnia any good?
...
The End.
King Kong
#1372 posted by Scampie [67.129.250.254] on 2005/12/16 14:49:09
I enjoyed King Kong immensely. One of my fave movies I've seen this year.
Start of the movie seems a bit slow, but serves well to introduce the characters and their various motives. And the characters had great growth throughout the film and only Jack Black's character felt somewhat dull (seemed like he was very one dimensional, which perhaps fitted his character, I just wish there was more to him). The female lead was absolutely awesome, definetely the strongest character. Glad she wasn't just there as just a 'damsel in distress'.
In any case, the movie was well worth seeing, and if given the chance, I'd go again. It was alot of fun. I'm already planning to buy the DVD when it comes out.
Narnia
#1373 posted by Kinn [86.128.230.212] on 2005/12/16 15:53:06
Saw this last Sunday, and I wrote a lengthy review for another site, but I'll just give you the short version here:
Having never read the books, I approached this film not really knowing what to expect, but after all the ridiculous HYPE we've been fed by the media during the build up to this film (they basically marketed this film to be the next Lord of the Rings), I'm sure I can be forgiven for having at least [i]some[/i] expectations when I walked into the theatre.
I couldn't have been more disappointed.
The four child actors, with the possible exception of the one playing Lucy, were so flat and one-dimensional that never for one moment did I believe that they had any sort of emotional investment in the world, let alone the motivation to put their lives on the line for the big climactic battle. (Ok it's a kid's film, suspension of disbelief and all that - but that's still no excuse for shoddy acting). The children's sudden and inexplicable aquisition of awesome combat skills is a bit of a stretch to say the least.
Whilst the film seems slow in places, events often move quickly and jarringly, as if the film suffered a lot in the cutting room in order to squeeze it into 140 minutes. This hurried approach never allowed me a chance to give a shit about any of the supporting characters they introduced, leaving me going "meh" when they kick the bucket a couple of scenes later.
Visual effects-wise, the film is mostly excellent, highlights being the CG creature animation, in particular that of Aslan's. Some CG effects were a bit hit-and-miss, with some of the background compositing being very weak.
The rather predictable big battle at the end is the only entertaining sequence in my opinion, but it is still a fairly obvious and unimaginative attempt to duplicate a LOTR-style clash of armies. Much more build-up than actual battle, the build-up is good even though it does rip off Peter Jackson's imagery practically shot-for-shot. Once the swords clash though, it quickly fizzles out into a fairly directionless melee that's over before you've really had a chance to appreciate it.
I'll try and end on a high note by mentioning what did work. Tilda Swinton as the White Witch was pretty good (hers and Lucy's being the only noteworthy acting performances in the film really). The beavers were well voiced, other creatures not so (Liam Neeson was a poor choice for Aslan, and what's the deal with the American lead wolf?) Other than the battle, the film managed to distance itself visually from LOTR far more than I expected really, which is definately to director Adamson's credit.
Scampie
#1374 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2005/12/16 17:07:46
the female lead was naomi watts, who like I said in my ring two blabber is watchable in just about anything.
Squishy, Squishy, Squishy
#1375 posted by HeadThump [70.152.149.248] on 2005/12/22 10:58:15
the female lead was naomi watts, who like I said in my ring two blabber is watchable in just about anything.
That scene of Naomi Watts in Mulholland Drive near the end of the movie. You know the one I'm talking about!
Ht
#1376 posted by bambuz [213.169.26.3] on 2005/12/22 11:17:26
Naomi Watts was good in that movie. Many others thought so too since she's landed so many good roles after that.
Don't degrade.
Snooty Little Bitch
#1377 posted by HeadThump [70.152.149.248] on 2005/12/22 11:27:45
Not Naomi Watts, you.
Mr And Mrs Smith
#1378 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/22 21:45:29
big, dumb and silly with a poor climax, but lots of fun. Does exactly what it sets out to do and is very enjoyable in that regard.
And angelina is smoking.
Mr And Mrs Smith
#1379 posted by mwh [82.33.200.34] on 2005/12/23 03:45:41
Yes, was fun and a bit disappointing at the same time. I wish it had taken them longer to work out what was going on and start to outright kill each other. The action sequences were just boring.
Nitin
#1380 posted by starbuck [82.40.164.223] on 2005/12/23 04:18:26
but what about brad?
Who's Brad ?
#1381 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/23 04:26:27
was he in the movie :)
King Kong
#1382 posted by Friction [213.243.160.111] on 2005/12/23 06:37:08
King Kong is a rather long movie, so if you like long movies don't miss this one!
Also: Worms.
L'enfer
#1383 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/23 19:37:52
This french psychological melodrama has to have one of the most unsympathetic and unlikable characters to ever grace the screen. I just wanted to smash his head in.
The actor that played this character didnt help either, putting in a very phony and mannered performance. The direction was poor as well, relying on cheap cliches.
The one saving grace was Emanuelle Beart, who seemed to be chanelling Brigitte Bardot.
Some More
#1384 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/24 21:46:52
Fantastic Four - what a non event of a film. There is nothing worth watching here. Nothing.
Forget the acting, script etc, the actual special effects are some of the most badly integrated in recent years. Everything looks so fake except for The Thing's costume, the one thing that wasnt CG. Even Hulk and Daredevil, bad as they were, had some aspects worth watching.
The Professionals - I'm not usually a big fan of westerns but this is a very good one. Great casting and excellent dialogue. Conrad J Hall's cinematography is also great.
The Wild Bunch
#1385 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/26 01:09:18
The Professionals got me in the mood for some more Western action and I tried out Sam Peckinpah's acclaimed film.
This is very very good, one of those few films that can pull you into their world and make you feel as if you're there. There is a rawness to it all, and also a sense of very refined filmmaking.
If anything, the plot's a bit too meandering, but apart from that, this is great.
One More
#1386 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/27 00:19:18
A Bittersweet Life - korean gangster flick/noir by the same director who did A Tale of Two Sisters.
And like a Tale of Two Sisters, this is a very stylish film. Some very good cinematography and nice action sequences. It's a very predictable, pulpy film though, going through every crime/noir cliche in existence.
In the end, like A Tale of Two sisters, it turns out to be above average fare.
Hello Nitin.
#1387 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2005/12/27 08:21:46
And anyone else.
I don't know whether it is socially acceptable to like Minority Report, but I certainly did. Was on Xmas TV the other night and I'm glad I watched it. Smart, pretty stylish, good blend of action and plot, and an entertaining progression that kept me interested. On the downside there were some silly moments, some triteness, and the integration of hi-technology was unconvincing, but overall a cut about most sci-fi thrillers I felt.
Hello Shambler
#1388 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/27 18:54:06
I didnt mind minority report myself, I thought the first half hour was pretty good. I just thought the twist at the end was kind of unnecessary. It may have been better if they stopped it at the point where tom cruise's character was arrested and shown going down the elevator into captivity.
Meh
#1389 posted by Blitz [24.218.85.216] on 2005/12/30 21:07:14
I haven't sat through a movie in ages, but I just saw 'War of the Worlds' with Tom Cruise.
The special FX were awesome and the movie started out decently enough. The problem is that the tension and suspense that come when the invasion first begins never stops through out the movie!
I kept waiting for a break or some plot development or character development or something -- but none to be had. It was just one tense "escape from the alien" scene after another.
The ending was totally unbelievable and abrupt. I thought Tom Cruise was good, but I would have liked to have seen some more acting besides the little girl screaming and Tom Cruise flipping out.
2 out 5 stars
I For One
#1390 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2005/12/30 21:22:08
was glad that this was all there was :
"It was just one tense "escape from the alien" scene after another."
That is much better than most blockbusters that try to include a b grade story. The film didnt pretend to be anything more than what it was and that is ok in my book.
And I can see people having issues with the ending, but a similar number of people would have complained if it was changed fromt he book's ending.
#1391 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2006/01/02 07:42:19
The Bone Collector - reasonable performances by the two leads but as usual with most serial killer films, the script is extremely clunky.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - It takes a while to get used to johnny depp, the backstory to wonka seems a bit out of place, the songs are awful, the oompa loompas are a bit disappointing.
But this is one very entertaining film with glorious production design and visual detail. Nice to see Burton back in business after the PotA remake and the ho hum overly sentimental Big Fish.
#1392 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2006/01/06 19:15:35
The Thomas Crown Affair (original version) - I thought this was only slightly better than the remake which isnt saying much. This version comes across as quite dated and corny despite having the presence of both mcqueen and dunaway.
Don't Look Now - Great stuff. Part thriller, part drama, part gothic horror, this is a knockout film from Nicholas Roeg. I thought the ending was a little predictable but everything else is of extremely high quality. Brilliant stuff.
No Way Out (1987)
#1393 posted by bambuz [130.233.243.228] on 2006/01/07 07:23:52
It's a political/military thriller with Kevin Costner, Gene Hackman and Sean Young. Was on tv when I surfed channels and accidentally hit it.
It is interesting how dated it seemed, the picture was kinda bad and the voices were often clipped. Kevin Costner was a bit of a stoneface at times, not much portraying the extreme feelings he would go through here. But the supporting performance by Will Patton as political aide Pritchard is what helps make this movie good, along with the interesting and exciting plot. There are quite a lot of small supporting actors that all have interesting characters by themselves and that adds a lot to the film. Sean Young ain't bad either.
I think as a whole the film works and is good to watch. It sets average goals and prettymuch succeeds in getting to them.
Island
#1394 posted by gone [213.170.89.98] on 2006/01/09 05:15:51
Its cool. Some amazing action scenes. Looks pretty and stylish (ok, you could say its a ripoff of u know what and what)
And wtf with ppl starting to get annoyed when there is actually some not brain-dead plot in a blockbuster-action (nevermind the obvious cheesy ending)?
If you compare Island to say another Bay's movie Armageddon - the plot of the later is much much worse. Prolly everyone was expecting same from the Island and was dissapointed to see some attempt at proper sci-fi in the first part of the movie. well, too bad
Crash
#1395 posted by gone [213.170.89.98] on 2006/01/09 05:35:14
Just go watch it! It`s a gem in the pile of popcorn and pretentious crap.
Genius dialogues, great story (if quite unrealistic) with some dramatic twists. And characters that make you care! - that`s something I haven`t seen for a while (and I despise the usual cheesy hollywood methods of making the viewer feel something).
To put it in one line: there is no black and no white. Thats what this movie is about (in both meanings).
of course check IMDB for better reviews http://www.imdb.com/title/tt037567...
Blitz And Nitin
#1396 posted by gone [213.170.89.98] on 2006/01/09 06:07:29
have u read the original "war of the worlds" book?
movie is very good btw, except some ending cheese (family reunion? wtf)
I dont like Tom, but he was really good in it.
And Tim Robbins was awesome.
Also, wtching it at home is meh, unless you have big-ass tv/projector and really good sound with THE bass
Speedy
#1397 posted by nitin [138.217.0.153] on 2006/01/09 23:38:47
yes, I've read the book. The ending (not the reunion) is fairly true to it.
and I watched it at home, yes we have the big ass tv and sound system, and lets just say I had to rearrange quite a few things afterwards. The DVD has one of the best soundtracks in quite a while.
Walk The Line
#1398 posted by . [209.4.43.34] on 2006/01/15 03:33:53
The Johnny Cash account based upon his autobio "Man In Black", which I've read and enjoyed.
Since I'm not one for pretentious movie reviews, you won't get that here. You'll just get a points summary:
Acting: great performances by Joaquin (he has the voice down and learned to play the guitar and songs) and Reese (what a beautiful smile by the way). Also interesting to see Robert Patrick (lawl I put Patrick Stewart first, imagine...) as Cash's dad.
Music: Awesome - I tell you, not many films that recreate or feature music performances made me want to applaud with the crowd - Joaquin's ACTUAL performance - guitar playing, singing (whether or not it was recorded realtime or dubbed) - was very convincing and moving.
Story: I'm not real keen on details from reading Cash's autobio, but overall I believe the film stayed quite true (despite one of his kids saying their mother Vivian was portrayed as shrewd - and boy was she!). The thing that bothered me quite early on was, they didn't quite show how Cash gets real aquainted in music. Show him listenin' to the radio as a boy, and as he's older walks into a guitar store on duty in Germany, comes back home and tries to get a record deal at a studio. Very quick pace there. Actually the movie was fairly quickly paced, but only dealt with Johnny's earlier years and drug addiction. No way you could do justice portraying his entire life in the span of even 3 hours. (I believe this film was under 2 and a half hours).
Overall
A film quite worth seeing. I may pick it up on DVD, but I'm more compelled to pick up Ray on DVD - I liked the progression of that movie more.
Office Space & Blood Work
#1399 posted by . [209.4.43.192] on 2006/01/17 06:17:52
Office Space
Decided to see what was so funny about this, and was really looking forward to it - and while it had it's funny moments, it just wasn't the heralded comedy it was put up to be, for me. Although I was tired and nodding off near the last 3/4ths of the movie...
Blood Work
Really looked forward to seeing Eastwood in an interesting premise but - while this film had a noir feel about it that kinda hooks you, it just fails because the dialogue is written and performed more like what you'd see in everyday life. Because of this, oddly, it wasn't as convincing or interesting. Eastwood's gravely voice got tiring as well. The plot, once it revealed itself - wasn't completely shocking, but surprising. But then the way they handled that and the end just blew. Eastwood really let me down in this flick. I hope Absolute Power is better.
Office Space
#1400 posted by nitin [138.217.1.74] on 2006/01/17 12:35:45
felt the same, the brit sitcom captures that atmosphere (and is a lot funnier) so much more effortlessly.
Wait..
#1401 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/01/17 14:55:48
is "The Office" related to "Office Space?" Or is it just similar subject matter?
Not Related
#1402 posted by starbuck [81.129.52.98] on 2006/01/17 17:00:08
different style of comedy really
Not Related Like Starbuck Said
#1403 posted by nitin [138.217.1.74] on 2006/01/18 01:35:01
but similar subject matter (well, in parts).
Also, stay away from the american version.
Some More
#1404 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2006/01/20 16:54:50
The Interview
Knockout script, probably the best australian script in the last decade (although I havent seen any of the big aussie three from last year : Proposition, Look Both ways, Little Fish). A few missteps here and there, but generally this is extremely well written.
And the acting is extremely good too, except from the supporting cast who ham it up a fair bit. Nicely shot and directed by Craig Monahan too.
The Skeleton Key
Interesting concept, bad execution. For every good, intelligent moment in the script, there's an equally bad one that defines stupidity. And it goes for too many "boo" moments which seems to plague many thriller/horror films these days.
Underworld - Rubbish in all areas, from the script to the acting to the direction to the score to the action to the look. Most people praise the look but it is so derivative, it's hard to credit it.
Unscripted Season 1 - quite flawed but equally intriguing and compelling show shot as a mockumentary by George Clooney about 3 struggling actors and their experiences. Some brilliant moments in every episode, which is a lot more than most shows can lay claim to.
I prefer it to Entourage (even though it's comparing apples and oranges), which is also a good show.
Sympathy for Mr Vengeance - well shot, well written, well acted. But the pacing is incredibly off in this earlier film by Chan Wook Park, 20 min or so could easily have been lost. And I felt the whole thing came out a little contrived too.
The Butterfly Effect
#1405 posted by . [70.225.1.72] on 2006/01/22 22:30:28
Real small summary: guy goes through his memories/journal and rewrites his troublesome past multiple times, seeing the sometimes positive but sometimes devastating effects of his choices.
I was almost certain this movie would be a waste of time to watch - but I was surprised to find out that it is actually worth a watch. It's not a movie I feel compelled to own on DVD, but interesting premise nonetheless. It was also a disturbing movie, with it's various sometimes horrific events that the main character and other's experience - but what especially made this a worthy view was how I felt empathy for Ashton's character Evan. I didn't think that'd be possible as I had low expectations.
The only thing I was really left wondering was "well how was this even possible?". There didn't seem to be any theoretical explanation in the movie for this "butterfly effect". Maybe that was a good thing though.
It's worth a rent.
#1406 posted by nitin [138.217.2.44] on 2006/01/26 00:11:14
After Hours - I've seen some strange stuff in my time but this is definitely one of the bizzarest, if not the bizzarest, films I've ever seen.
I dont know what crack Martin Scorsese was on when he made it, but it turned out quite well. Weird, but actually funny and not just substituting weird for funny like some more modern films (eg Napoleon Dynamite). As usual, shot nicely by Marty.
Although the lead does reasonably, could have been a better film with a stronger actor in the role.
#1407 posted by nitin [138.217.0.173] on 2006/01/26 16:57:39
Kung Fu Hustle - blah. Some nice bits but this is probably just not my type of humour as I found it to be pretty uninteresting. The action scenes didnt impress either, the CG use was too distracting.
Memoirs Of A Geisha
#1408 posted by BlackDog [202.72.148.102] on 2006/02/04 08:14:18
Just like I should have expected from a Stephen Speilberg produced flick, this was atmospheric and gorgeously filmed but narrow and one dimensional. The lead actress is so cold and apparently unfeeling that it's difficult to ever give a shit about what happens to her, the locations and other characters barely exist except as a foil to the lead, and none of the myriad interesting issues surrounding a fascinating period in history are even brought up, let alone dealt with.
On the plus side, the quality of the sets, costumes, cinematography and music is simply astounding.
In summary; visually lovely and highly polished, but if you are looking for any depth or weight then instead read the book. It's far more nuanced, insightful and worthwhile.
#1409 posted by nitin [138.217.2.194] on 2006/02/08 02:51:13
We Dont Live Here anymore - In the vein of Closer, complete with unlikable and unsympathetic characters. Likewise, it features some strong acting. It doesnt have the dialogue of Closer but is rawer and more intense. Worth a watch, but definitely not for everybody.
Malena - Giusseppe Tornatore is an overrated director and this is really fairly comparable to the average Cinema Paradiso. Shot well with a weak semblance of a story and featuring another terrific Ennio Morricone score and a knockout looking Monica Bellucci.
Extras Season One - disappointly average follow up to The Office by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. There's 3 reasonable episodes in the season, but even they retread the characters and style from The Office.
Stealth - One of the most awful movies I've seen in a while.
Red Eye - Competent, lean and efficient throwaway thriller. Has quite a few implausibilities but is well made enough to take till the end of the film for them to bother you.
Stealth Looked Really Good
#1410 posted by starbuck [86.131.255.15] on 2006/02/08 17:42:42
what went wrong? The plot sounded original and insightful, the casting appeared to be perfect... how could it not be great? I mean, they built a plane with artificial intelligence and it got evil and started destroying things. That's pretty unexpected, what a twist!
In depth critique please
When Will Humanity Learn...
#1411 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/02/08 17:50:02
...not to tinker in God's domain. What hath man wrought?
Urgh
#1412 posted by bambuz [213.169.2.208] on 2006/02/08 19:34:12
there are plenty of good insightful and thought-provoking science fiction books just waiting to be made into movies, and they always pick the crappiest crap of rehashed rehash dumbed down 1000x. Sigh.
Maybe it's just because the good ones are not for the big audience, since it would often need actual thinking to get something from the story. Maybe someone like David Lynch should do scifi.
#1413 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/02/08 19:39:34
Maybe someone like David Lynch should do scifi.
Even seen Dune?
XMEN 3 Is Going To Be Awsome
#1414 posted by Kandi73 [208.54.197.52] on 2006/02/08 21:30:32
Hey OK I am so ready for X3 I saw the trailer for it on line and when I went to see underworld 2 it was the frist trailer I saw it was so cool to see Daniel Cudmore in the suit walking with the others. when X3 comes out May 26th I am going to be watching the frist two movies then the next day I am seeing X3. have you all been to the trekweb they have some new photos of X3 and when you find the Six photo it scared the living death out of me it's of Peter in his colossus role. That is a scarry photo.
XMEN 3 Is Going To Be Awsome
#1415 posted by Kandi73 [208.54.197.52] on 2006/02/08 21:32:19
Hey OK I am so ready for X3 I saw the trailer for it on line and when I went to see underworld 2 it was the frist trailer I saw it was so cool to see Daniel Cudmore in the suit walking with the others. when X3 comes out May 26th I am going to be watching the frist two movies then the next day I am seeing X3. have you all been to the trekweb they have some new photos of X3 and when you find the Six photo it scared the living death out of me it's of Peter in his colossus role. That is a scarry photo.
#1416 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/02/08 21:42:05
I can feel the stealth marketing working already! X3 will have the biggest turnout of illiterate assholes of any movie opening ever!!342414
Starbuck
#1417 posted by nitin [138.217.2.194] on 2006/02/09 00:38:25
yeah so I deserved everything I got, but sometimes I have to watch stuff that I dont want to.
But seriously, if you're going to pump 150 million plus into a movie, at least make it have some decent action sequences. Shots of missiles, then shots of planes, then an explosion. Oh man, I cant wait till I see that in zoomed in slow mo. Oh wait, they've read my mind, oh jesus christ this movie is so fucking cool.
Nitin
#1418 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.54] on 2006/02/09 01:42:43
yeah so I deserved everything I got
That was my thought too!
#1419 posted by Vigil [85.76.2.233] on 2006/02/09 01:43:31
when I went to see underworld 2
I think I stopped reading right about there.
What?
#1420 posted by Jago [85.76.178.187] on 2006/02/09 03:58:52
Kate Beckinsale + Leather = HOT.
Scifi Movies
#1421 posted by bambuz [213.169.25.136] on 2006/02/09 14:16:27
metl:Even seen Dune?
Yeah, but it was kinda not finished and had some... not right things. I should watch it with more thought some day.
I like blade runner... and minority report wasn't that bad either. (cut the cheesy Spielberg kids&family inclusion). 2001 I haven't seen since I was a kid and it was kinda slow (pluss it's partly a ripoff of an older Russian film). 2010 or what's the sequel, that was ok although not very "grand". Solarises we've handled here earlier. Matrix had potential but in the end it was just flash and kungfu with the point lost.
Someone could make a big budget series about Lem's Cyberiad short stories book a bit in the vein of Outer Limits, which was sometimes watchable. It's violent and humoristic and the current special effects would rule. Or it could be made as a cartoon in futurama visual style, that would be awesome. Anybody got any connections? Make them read the book.
Bambuz:
#1422 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/02/09 20:10:17
I wasn't calling out Dune as an example of a quality scifi -- I was calling it out as an example of a David Lynch scifi, since you we're saying you'd like to see David Lynch take a crack at the genre.
Yeah I Worded It Badly
#1423 posted by bambuz [213.169.25.136] on 2006/02/09 20:30:16
What I meant that some good and respected person who can communicate their vision, and doesn't need to be too mainstream, could do some decent hardish or philosophish or just a more serious scifi flick. (Or are there much such people anymore, is everything very finely "produced" nowadays?)
I don't know the history of the Dune film very closely, but I understand the director was not happy with it. Cuts and shit.
Maybe they could pick something less ambitious.
#1424 posted by nitin [138.217.1.162] on 2006/02/11 23:08:26
Devil in a Blue Dress - so so modern attempt at a noir with some rather pedestrian direction and a badly miscast denzel washington. There's an art to doing a noir voiceover and denzel was not up to the task in this film.
#1425 posted by Kinn [86.128.10.218] on 2006/02/12 13:07:45
XMEN 3 Is Going To Be Awsome
Fucking hell, first the regular spam, then bots and now we're a target for stealth marketing bullshit.
Just my opinion - but maybe now is a good time to disable posting for non-registered users.
Stealth?
#1426 posted by Friction [85.156.172.179] on 2006/02/12 13:36:17
I'd call that bloody obvious marketing.
Just watched Daredevil, and it really was as bad as people said. Avoid.
X-Men 3
#1427 posted by starbuck [86.131.255.15] on 2006/02/12 17:26:23
i can't see myself liking it; just out of principle for them still not including Gambit at all. I mean, what the hell. Expect a biased review.
OOh
#1428 posted by . [70.224.221.205] on 2006/02/12 18:47:14
Yeah Gambit rocks hard. I think they have way too many mutants in this one. But I'm looking forward to seeing beast.
Starbuck
#1429 posted by nitin [138.217.1.162] on 2006/02/12 23:25:48
looking forward to it :)
ps : I also saw The Grifters which I found to be far too meandering and uninteresting.
Well
#1430 posted by Jago [85.76.178.187] on 2006/02/13 00:34:05
TO be honest, I did like XMEN2 so I am looking forward to the next one.
#1431 posted by nitin [138.217.1.162] on 2006/02/14 00:01:00
x2 was ok, opening 5 min with nightcrawler were great as were 2-3 scenes with wolverine, but the rest was so so.
As for x3, brett ratner is quite the hack, so Im' not expecting much.
#1432 posted by nitin [138.217.0.190] on 2006/02/18 02:13:13
Spartacus - The Criterion print is spectacular but I found this to be quite underwhelming. It starts off well enough but after Spartacus' escape and the beginning of the revolution, I found it fairly unremarkable.
At 198 min, I also found it to be extremely bloated, especially given the poor writing of many scenes. The acting, like most aspects of the movie, varied in quality with Kirk Douglas quite average in the title role. I enjoyed Peter Ustinov, Lawrence Olivier and the ever reliable Charles Laughton but Jean Simmons single handedly undid their good work with a very weak show. It probably didnt help that her character was not well written though.
The score was also fairly variable, great towards the start but being overly bombastic far too frequently.
And it is also the most un-Kubirck film I've encoutnered thus far, but that in itself is not necesarrily a bad thing IMHO.
5/10
#1433 posted by nitin [138.217.2.73] on 2006/02/18 18:01:22
Get Shorty - Underwhelmed again. Leonard thinks this is the best adaptation of his work but I'd take Out of Sight or Jackie Brown over this anyday.
Not that this is bad, far from it. But it's strictly average and just seems as if everything was by the numbers. Maybe that comes from Barry Sonnenfeld being not much of a director and Soderbergh and Tarantino being far more capable.
5.5/10
Saw Final Destination 3 Today.
#1434 posted by biff_debris. [71.80.65.99] on 2006/02/18 20:11:12
It was hilarious. I'm glad that after the first movie they got the idea to have more fun with the concept, since it was a bit too preposterous to be otherwise. It continues to be in the third installment, but it's always fun to watch Rube Goldberg as Death hatch his little plans and manage to get rid of the latest annoying teen. You've got to admit -- it's better than Chucky.
Cthulu Movie
#1435 posted by . [69.217.62.2] on 2006/02/21 18:27:17
I was searching credits at IMDB for the PC game Mafia, and one of the VO actors is in a Cthulu movie:
http://www.cthulhuthemovie.com/
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt047812...
A Seattle history professor, drawn back to his estranged family on the Oregon coast to execute his late mother's estate, is reaquainted with his best friend from childhood, with whom he has a long-awaited tryst. Caught in an accelerating series of events, he discovers aspects of his father's New Age cult which take on a dangerous and apocalyptic significance.
...
#1436 posted by Bal [84.14.13.212] on 2006/02/22 01:33:15
Phait, you unworthy little human, how can you mispell Cthulhu twice when it's written correctly in the url and everywhere on those sites. Please kill yourself, if the old ones don't get you first. ;D
Anyways, that movie looks pretty cheap, not really expecting much. =\
Anyone played the Call of Cthulhu game that finally came out? (on console only I think)
God Damn It
#1437 posted by Tronyn [24.66.94.144] on 2006/02/22 12:26:29
I've been waiting for that game for years, then out of nowhere they release an Xbox version first (in OCTOBER!) and the PC version (the platform it was originally developed for) STILL isn't out.
Damn the Xbox's theft of PC games!
I've even heard microsoft will pay a developer to release their game on xbox and delay the release to PC for 6 months, which may have been what happened to this game.
Bal
#1438 posted by Kinn [86.136.157.97] on 2006/02/22 15:10:37
I have the Call of Cthulhu game on Xbox - I played it for a bit a couple of months ago, but I had to put it on hold in favour of RE4, and I never got around to getting back to it.
It was ok - kinda creepy, mostly adventure game-feel, where you have to scour every dark corner for clues and stuff. I wasn't that convinced by the atmosphere, which felt more like 40s film noir, rather than turn-of-the-century Lovecraftian stuff (mostly due to the cheesy voice comments from the world-weary detective character that you play). I didn't really play enough of it to be qualified to have much of an opinion though.
Shut It, Infidels.
#1439 posted by biff_debris. [71.80.66.121] on 2006/02/22 15:41:14
This is the FILM THREAD, duh. To pleasantly divert the discussion down the right path, I submit this: http://www.cthulhulives.org/cocmov...
#1440 posted by nitin [138.217.2.73] on 2006/02/23 04:57:57
Deadwood Season 1 - HBO is responsible for many quality shows but this is IMHO their best. Pretty much perfect throughout the entire season, it hardly puts a foot wrong in any of the 12 epsiodes.
The production values are first rate, the writing is excellent, and most the acting is brilliant. It also features arguably the most interesting character yet in a tv series, Al Swearengen, expertly played by Ian McShane.
There has been a lot of hoopla over the swearing but it is so well integrated into the writing, that after a little while it's hardly noticeable, unlike some other shows (The Sopranos comes to mind) where at times the swearing draws attention to itself.
9/10
Nitin
#1441 posted by biff_debris. [71.80.66.121] on 2006/02/23 16:00:43
I've seen Deadwood -- my sister got addicted to it with the OnDemand cable service available in Knoxville, and made me sit and watch a couple of episodes. Of course, it has Brad Dourif (Doc Cochran) in it, and that immediately had me watching -- but I rather liked the show. Too bad I don't have HBO, or else I'd still be a fan. However, I don't agree with you about the swearing, it seemed like someone went behind the writer and added as many bad words as they could to many of the scenes, and the whole thing seemed forced. It doesn't detract one bit from the show, however.
And dammit, this is the FILM THREAD. Sigh.
#1442 posted by Vigil [85.76.2.233] on 2006/02/23 16:48:45
Phait, you unworthy little human, how can you mispell Cthulhu twice when it's written correctly in the url and everywhere on those sites. Please kill yourself, if the old ones don't get you first. ;D
Maybe he was just trying to avoid their attention? I know I'd try to do that.
Mirrormask
#1443 posted by generic [71.1.13.120] on 2006/02/23 16:56:54
Neil Gaiman + Dave McKean + Jim Henson Studios - a big budget - action - any actors you could think of = a small, strange indy(ish) flick with limited potential and a long way to go to achieve any.
I was a bit disappointed in this because McKean's imagination and Gaiman's writing go so well together -- in books -- but there wasn't any real sense that Neil wrote this screenplay. McKean's abstract imagination was represented well in a few CG scenes, but the costuming nearly ruined the whole thing for me. Still, the girl was cute and Valentine was a good character so I give it a 1 out of 3 fish.
Software DVD Player?
#1444 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.180.235] on 2006/02/23 20:54:43
Does anybody have an recommendations for free DVD player software? I'm currently using VLC, but it seems to startup on the wrong menu track on some DVDs, and that's started to annoy me. DVD players without flashy menu stuff are preferred, and keyboard shortcuts are handy.
Biff
#1445 posted by nitin [138.217.2.73] on 2006/02/24 17:31:55
I dont know, to me after about 10 min, I didnt notice the swearing at all. It just fit with the rhtyms of the dialogue.
And if you listen to some of the audio commentaries and interviews on the dvd, the creator David Milch talks about how he tried to replicate the bizzare nature of how people talked in the town, a strange mix of Victorian English and foul mouthed swearing.
Underworld2
#1446 posted by gone [213.170.89.98] on 2006/02/25 04:16:27
is pile. of something. boring too. first one was better
Heaps Of Stuff
#1447 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/03/17 18:13:33
The Proposition - extremely well shot, the landscape is as much of a character as the actors. It's a rather oblique and elliptic film though, never really developing the characters enough to understand them. Yet, for all that, it's extremely lyrical and definitely memorable in its depiction of Australia during colonisation.
The music by nick cave, whilst fine by itself, never really went with what was on screen. And the films does feel a bit too overly ponderous at times.
7.5/10
The Gift - strong acting, especially from blanchett who turns what could have been a standard role into something more. But the rest is pretty by the numbers stuff, and rather predictable.
5.5/10
Stalag 17 - perhaps I was expecting too much given that it was a Billy Wilder film, but I wasnt too impressed. It's all rather slight really, with everything too neat and cute to really have any impact. And the Billy Wilder dialog is missing too. Only William Holden comes off well, but this was not a role to deserve an Oscar IMHO.
5.5/10
Veronica Mars - Overrated a fair bit, this is fairly light, throwaway tv. The scripts arent as sharp and clever as they think they are and I found myself staying one or more steps ahead of most mysteries throughout the season, inclduing the main season long plotline (although that was handled better than most other episodic mysteries).
The one thing that is worth watching is Kristen Bell who should be a star in the making. She takes the show to a higher level, and without her it would be even more mediocre. A very capable perfomer, unfortunately most the rest of the cast dont pull up anywhere near as well.
6/10
Kiss of Death - fairly decent noir which is a bit aytpical, more crime drama than traditional noir. Missing the snappy dialogue but still retaining the noir atmosphere, and featuring Richard Widmark in a truly slimy performance as gangster Udo.
7/10
The Last Emperor - um, this may have been a good movie, it's a bit difficult to tell. I was extremely distracted by the fact that the majority of the film was in English.
Like the recently released Memoirs of a Geisha (I've only seen the trailer), it just comes across as really artificial and unnatrual when the speakers arent communicating in their native language. Sure, there are some bits that needed English, but I would have much preferred a subtitled film in Mandarin/Canotnese.
It made all the dialogue sound really strange and some of it was quite poorly written anyway.
Nicely shot, but I just couldnt get into it at all.
4/10 (but that's really just what I felt and probably not an accurate score).
The Unbearable Lightness of Being - One fabulously executed sequence, when the russians first invade czechoslovakia, but the rest came across as laborious quasi-arty claptrap. Acting was ok, despite a few dodgy and unstable accidents, but the script came across as half-baked. I dont know how true it was to the original source but some of the lines were very hokey.
4/10
The Fly - B grade story given A grade treatment by David Cronenberg. I havent seen anything else by him (although looking forward to A History of Violence), but he has a very distinct style. I was also especially surprised by the attention to character, this could so easily have been just a b grade monster film.
Easily the best thing Jeff Goldblum has done and some of it was wickedly disgusting.
7/10
Ong Bak - Does exactly what it sets out to do. Probably a bit too long, with a bit too much "plot", but the action scenes are executed very well.
They still lack impact, as is the case in most modern day martial art scenes, and thus appear more as sped up spars rather than actual fights. However, in this film, the fighting is very precise which raises up onto a different level. The chase scenes are also excellently done.
6.5/10
Unleashed - Indulges in every cliche that exists, but in a very earnest and self assured fashion. C grade story given almost A grade treatment. Still, despite all the gloss, the cliched script shines through a bit too often.
The action scenes, although far less frequent than Ong Bak, are also well done. Again, although most of the fight scenes lack impact, there are a few near the start that are excellent and definitely highlight the brutality and exhilaration that are now out of fashion.
6.5/10
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang - Had heard quiet a few good things about this one and came out extremely disappointed. Not anywhere near as clever or witty as it thinks it is, a few jokes hit the mark but overall I thought it was try hard noir.
5/10
Crash
#1448 posted by megaman [84.63.38.203] on 2006/03/19 06:48:26
Crash (2004?).
First of all: I had strong expectations for this one, thus it's probably getting a harder look.
Hm, mixed feelings. It's definately a step in the right direction, but it still feels too hollywood like. Lots of stuff that felt like someone created it rather than it happening. Accels at the really intense parts though (maybe a bit too cliche in parts).
Music was effective, but still annoying in places. felt like i was listening to tori amos at times (not that i dislike her, but everything at its time / place!).
Also, i had a hard time getting certain nuances - this MIGHT be a language issue, but I feel like I understood most of the talk and still didnt get stuff. A few seconds of shots detailing certain stuff (not necessarily with language) would've been nice; for non-US citizens anyway.
Photography was nice at 'effects': against the light shots, overall exposure in all the night shots, etc. all was nice - but the rest wasn't any special (it focused on the characters, really). That might be exactly the right thing though - like great design that you just dont notice. Just that nothing besides the stuff they put into the q1 engine nowadays stood out to me ;).
Acting was.. OK to good. Some of the characters felt too cliche in their execution. i just tried compiling a lost of thechars that did - and i stopped at 7. I think this is the main bad thing with this movie: the chars are made up, and it feels like they are. The best chars were those you DIDN't get a background to.
7/10 (with the average hollywood flick rating between 4/10)
Damn The Typos
#1449 posted by megaman [84.63.38.203] on 2006/03/19 06:51:48
....I just tried compiling a list of the chars that did [feel made up/cliche]...
V For Vendetta
#1450 posted by Tronyn [24.66.94.144] on 2006/03/19 11:02:51
Went to see this because the action in the trailer looked cool (how often is this my undoing!)
There really is a limit that I am often pushed to and beyond, with people who vote the same way as me.
Yes, I like the idea of trashing conservative politics and all, but can't they do it in a remotely intelligent and reasonable way?
V For Vendetta
#1451 posted by . [70.224.243.76] on 2006/03/21 20:54:29
Since I don't know the first thing about politics, I can't tell if this has any political leanings and I don't really care. I see the core of the story and it's about not giving into fear, facing unjust resistance, and especially questioning the world we live in and those in power. I think no doubt it will arouse questioning and consideration in most every individual in the audience, it certainly did me. The biggest question being "is what V is doing, right or wrong?". Doesn't that come down to motive? I felt myself rooting for V, and yet at the same time feeling just a bit unsure as I laughed inside at some of the things he did.
The story progresses quickly within it's 2+ hour timespan, V is introduced very early on. I didn't really pay attention to the acting here - I just wanted to take it all in. But I enjoyed Hugo's performance behind the mask, and I can never not enjoy Natalie, she's a modern day Audrey Hepburn. I was really thrown a bit of an emotional twist in a particular area of the movie involving Evey's (Natalie) capture and detention. There were a few eccentric moments with V (especially a dialogue of his where 98% of the words started with the letter V... it seemed overboard, yet I think the intention was just so for a reason). I felt V was a human too, not just some masked crusader - but a conflicted human. Not much of John Hurt as Chancelor Sutler other than seeing him on a big conference screen, but his demeanor was convincing enough. The action wasn't heavy in this movie, actually - but it was enjoyable and I absolutely loved the ending sequence.
I thought the movie was great. I'm extremely tired of all the Bush allusions in the overboard political/analytical reviews - it's not that you can't make comparisons in the movie (I think anybody can in any country with any government), but I took it for what it was - a look at a corrupt government puppeteering the country with fear, and the uprising against it with the manifestation of an idea.
Aeon Flux...
#1452 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2006/03/21 21:41:56
...opened in Oz last week. Anyone seen it? What's the verdict?
(I can't help thinking that casting Charlize Theron as the protagonist was the worst decision eva...)
Aeon Flux
#1453 posted by DaZ [80.42.192.186] on 2006/03/22 06:23:25
ahahahahahahah save your money.
A hot woman.
A woman with 4 hands.
Some sharp grass.
A flying squid.
Some other things.
Seriously no, it was utter POO
Hehe...
#1454 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2006/03/22 16:33:26
...ta for the heads up DaZ!
#1455 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/03/23 00:02:54
Stalker - I cant say I fully understand the whole thing or that overall, it works as a film, but there's something about Andrei Tarovsky's movie that burns itself into your mind.
Not quite the sum of its parts, but there are some brilliant parts nevertheless. It has loads of atmosphere, excellent visuals and sound use, and a slew of interesting ideas that, although presented not quite coherently, are a welcome break from the many dumb sci-fi films. Although, technically this really isnt a sci-fi film at all, it merely uses that genre to spin off its own ideas.
7/10
The Adventures of Robin Hood - I know it's meant to be Robin Hood and his merry men, but this is far too merry. It's probably not as bad as I thought it was but the continuous campiness and corniness just didnt sit well with me.
3.5/10
Red Eye
#1456 posted by starbuck [81.153.246.14] on 2006/03/23 18:32:10
Wes Craven has lost it, what a waste of time. Rachel McAdams is a hottie but doesn't get her boobs out. Stale, boring, vapid useless thriller. Cillian Murphy is unimpressive and the plot has no depth. The dialogue is particularly wank... especially the last scene nof the film, cringe cringe cringe cringe arghhhh.
Basic Instinct
#1457 posted by starbuck [81.153.246.14] on 2006/03/23 18:38:52
Just saw this for the first time. Not sure what the big deal was, but I finally appreciate Sharon Stone... absolutely smoking in this movie. The plot is total crap though, you see Ms. Stone kill a guy in the first scene (not a spoiler) and then at the end of the film (here comes a semi-spoiler) the big twist is that she did kill him and there is no twist. Piss-poor performance by Michael Douglas too; this could have been any Channel 5 erotic thriller i used to watch in my room with the volume down when I was 14. What happened to Eurotrash, by the way? What an amazing show. Maybe you can get it on DVD. Antoine De Caunes is probably pretty old now... he's got to be a silver fox, what a player. Ahem, anyway i give this 2 thumbs up out of 5.
Some Concise Reviews
#1458 posted by starbuck [81.153.246.14] on 2006/03/23 19:03:44
I'll do some quick reviews to save time...
Flash Gordon
I'm Brian Blessed! In space! 5/5
Flesh Gordon
Oh my god, the sex ray from the planet porno made me want to get naked! But who will fly the plane? Slightly Disturbing/5
Barbarella
Inaccurate portrayal of space travel. Nice boobs. 2/5
Doom
They were so busy making clever references to the game they forgot to make the movie any good at all. Rock bottom/5
King Kong
Monkeys don't grow that big. Minus 5 points. 0/5
Casablanca
Humphrey Bogart. Small man syndrome. Here's looking at you kid/5
Mean Girls
If you do touch each other, you WILL get chlamydia. And die. Stop trying to make felch happen/5
Hook
RUFIO/5
Jurassic Park
Watch this movie and count how many times Sam Neill fondles the children. At one point he even teabagged a Velociraptor. I don't know how but life found a way. MUST GO FASTER/5
...
#1459 posted by . [70.224.243.76] on 2006/03/23 19:30:48
At one point he even teabagged a Velociraptor
GOLD!
Not For The Dinosaur!
#1460 posted by HeadThump [65.140.53.108] on 2006/03/23 22:42:44
. . .
Starbuck
#1461 posted by Kell [80.192.82.64] on 2006/03/23 23:54:02
start a review site, you brilliant nutter
Starbuck
#1462 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/03/24 17:13:23
nice stuff as always.
Trailer For The New Pirates Of The Caribbean
#1463 posted by R.P.G. [24.136.180.235] on 2006/03/30 07:41:03
http://disney.go.com/disneypicture...
Is that... Cthulhu in pirate garb?!
Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
#1464 posted by bambuz [193.167.6.25] on 2006/03/31 10:37:01
was ok. Not too high-thinking - not too low, has substance to back it up. You probably have to be in the right mood and let it take you along the trip.
(Not to mention it's refreshing to have a total diversion from sex, serial killers, druggers and robbers, terrorists, law drama and romantic comedies.)
A drinking game (contains spoilers):
One sip every time they fall over.
Empty your drink when Ernesto has an asthma attack.
Hmm,
#1465 posted by HeadThump [65.140.56.195] on 2006/03/31 14:30:52
Which is the greater immorality, a film
that shows fictionalized violent serial killing, or one that glorifies a real life sadistic killer?
Both
#1466 posted by czg [83.253.28.233] on 2006/03/31 15:06:07
The Satanic Celluloid makes Baby Jesus CRY!
#1467 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/03/31 17:17:32
Solaris (2002 remake) - Not quite a disaster, so Steven Soderbergh can get some credit for that, but this is still far inferior to Andrei Tarkovsky's 1972 film.
Simplifying the subject matter, improving the production design somewhat (alhough some of it comes off worse), and focusing the film more on the characters of george clooney and his wife, Soderbergh's film is still a cut above most regular sci-fi fare but without the final 15 min of the original (and in particular the last shot), it doesnt come together as it should.
Clooney is impressive, but Jeremy Davies is an absolute disgrace and appears to have come in from a different film.
I know a lot of people find th eoriginal dull, but I found this to be the duller out of the two, despite being 60 min shorter.
6/10
The Trial - A flawed film from a mad genius is the best way to describe this. Orson Welles' take on Kafka's famous novel is mind bogglingly original and equally frustrating at the same time. It is amazing from a technical standpoint, perhaps even more so than Kane was at the time, but it doesnt all quite gel as it should.
And you can see the influences on a whole number of films, especially Brazil.
7.5/10
In Good Company - Above average feel good movie with decent acting (although I wasnt convinced with Topher Grace in the lead role). It avoids quite a few cliches, surprisingly, but even still you can get your cliche book out and tick through most of them. Dennis Quaid and Scarlett Johansson are good (which is a relief in terms of Scarlett after her abysmal performances in The Island and A Good Woman) in their roles.
6/10
Blow UP - Michaelangelo Antonioni's most famous film might be slightly dated but it's still one very very good movie. Taking a very simple plot, Antonioni weaves a very mesmerising movie with a handful of extremely memorable scenes. And I havent seen the camera move so fluidly in quite a while.
I dont quite get the orgy scene though, it's tame by today's standards and doesnt really seem to have a point.
7.5/10
A History of Violence - An extremely well made movie by David Cronenberg. The overall story is a bit simple but the performances, direction and script (as distinct from plot) are first rate.
It is also dripping with subtext but Cronenberg never lets all that get in the way of the main narrative.
Fine film that falls short of greatness, but is well worth seeing.
7.5/10
Madagascar - unllike some of the other animated films, this is aimed squarely at kids and even then it's pedestrian compared to pixar's output. They need more of the penguins, they were actually funny. And the animation was ugly.
3/10
Primer - After rewatching the last 15 min and then rewatching that part again with the director's commentary, I get most of it now except a few minor details.
So, it's a movie about time travel with some very neat ideas and concepts but, in all reality, featuring a very messy script. I'm against the dumbening down of a script for the audience, especially when characters detail out information that they never would in actuality, but this went far beyond that to the point of incomprehensibility.
A good script would have been able to dramatize its core ideas, this merely talks about them.
Still, worth checking out for the ideas.
6.5/10
About a Boy - I could just substitute my review for In Good Company above, except I would rate this slightly higher since it's a little less 'happy' and the script slightly more witty.
Was not at all surprised to discover that it's by the same director.
6.5/10
And2 More
#1468 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/01 08:32:44
Band of Outsiders - another meandering film from Jean Luc godard but unlike some of his other meandering ones, this one is fairly dull. Has some nice atmosphere, but apart from that is fairly underwhelming in most departments.
5/10
Good Night and Good Luck - Sheer brilliance. I'm not going to comment any further apart from saying it's a must see film.
9.5/10
Is
#1469 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.79.87] on 2006/04/01 16:29:03
Slither any good?
/me glares at Biff. O_O
Is That A Serious Question?
#1470 posted by . [69.217.53.105] on 2006/04/01 21:42:11
Yeah
#1471 posted by Zwiffle [69.210.79.87] on 2006/04/02 08:04:58
I wanna see it. Prolly'll see it whether it's good or not, it has Malcolm Reynolds in it! Firefly 43v3r w00t! <3 czg
#1472 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/03 01:41:46
Grand Hotel - I was extremely surprised to learn that this was made in 1932. The narrative here is fairly complex for an early talkie. If I had to guess I would have gone with early 40's.
Anyway, I found this quite enjoyable, some nice plot developments which I wasnt expecting. Part of the ending is a bit silly and some aspects a bit dated but overall it was well worth watching.
7/10
The Killer - some nice action sequences like Hard Boiled (although that probably had one of the best in the hospital scene), but not much else at all. I still think Face Off is Woo's best because he had some semblance of a narrative there (not that it was all that earth shattering but it was there). Then again Face Off was missing the kind of kinetic action sequences on display here.
Also, I've come across a few dvds of this film (and Hard Boiled) and all of them, while claiming to have dts and 5.1, sound hollow. Proper DD or DTS would improve the impact of those action sequences a lot.
5/10
#1473 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/07 22:58:19
Kingdom of Heaven - Blah. Boring, dull, woefully directed movie by Ridley Scott. And I never thought I'd say this, but it's also poorly shot by Ridley.
A lot of flak was directed towards Orlando Bloom but he doesnt really have to do much and its the script and direction that are the main culprits. The pacing is incredibly wrong and everyone seems to be walking around not knowing what the whole thing is trying to achieve.
Stuff like this, Troy, Alexander and King Arthur make a decent, but flawed, film like Gladiator look like a masterpiece.
3.5/10
Point Blank - B movie crime script given to an 'Arty' director who gives it A grade style, but not enough to drag it out of the B grade.
Woefully remade 30 yrs later as Payback (with Mel Gibson), this is at least an always interesting film if not entirely successful. Lee Marvin is good in the title role and the psychedelic direction by John Boorman is akin to Martin Scorsese's methods in his Cape Fear remake.
6.5/10
Nitin Re: Kingdom Of Heaven
#1474 posted by starbuck [82.40.164.223] on 2006/04/09 08:58:57
Completely agree. Directionless and with some of the worst dialogue I've ever heard. And god I love ham-fisted attempts to make a contemporary political statement in a historical (well sort of) film.
Stuff like this, Troy, Alexander and King Arthur make a decent, but flawed, film like Gladiator look like a masterpiece.
Double agreed. Why are the recent crop of epics so damn disappointing?
Starbuck
#1475 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/10 02:44:46
The main problem is in the scripting.
Some of them are overly ambitious IMHO. Like you said, ham fisted attempts to make a contemporary politcial statement in a historical film. I think both KoH and Alexander fall in this category.
Others take the best aspects of the story out of the script for various reasons. Troy (the gods) and King Arthur (the arthurian legend) fall in this category.
Gladiator, flawed as it was, had a simple story and stuck with it throughout the running time without pretending to be about anything else. I think it also benefited from not trying to revolve around a character/event from history.
Secondly, on top of the script, poor casting. Whilst some of the mentioned films cast certain parts well, there was some woeful miscasting present. And although he didnt warrant an oscar for the role, Russell Crowe is in a completely different league to brad pitt, orlando bloom, clive owen and colin farrell when it comes to acting/performing. I say performing because in the end Gladiator was less about acting and more about presence and Crowe understood that.
Lastly, I guess the newer ones have to compete with LOTR. They try to emulate/top the battle scenes and in an effort to do that, forget completely about choreographing the battles in an imaginative way.
My $0.02
And While I'm Here
#1476 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/10 02:50:46
The Driver - A Steve McQueen movie if there ever was one but it doesnt have Steve McQueen. A fairly pedestrian crime film with 1-2 decent car chases, no real plot, uninteresting characters and poor casting.
4.5/10
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy - Havent read the book but I found it fairly enjoyable, albeit extremely hit and miss. A lot better when it had quirky observational type humour than when it focused on the special effects.
6.5/10
The Road Home - Simple story, nicely told and shot brilliantly by Zhang Yimou. The plot's a bit too contrived and sentimental to be one of his best films, but it's still quite good.
7/10
Femme Fatale - I've always regarded brian de palma as an expert director who works with awful scripts.
And this is really no different. Classy direction and storytelling, but they cant hide a C grade script with one of the most ridiculous 'twists' I've seen in a while.
5.5/10
#1477 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/15 00:47:21
House of Games - Regarded as one of Mamet's best but I just dont see why. The whole thing is extremely predictable (although I'll admit I didnt see the first con coming) and due to some poor casting, the Mamet style of dialogue where everyone talks the same way comes off badly.
5/10
The Astronaut's Wife - textbook example of how not to make a thriller. What should have been a moody, atmospheric polanski type of movie instead opts for needless exposition, making a silly plot just plain ludicrous. Wastes reasonable efforts from Theron and Depp.
3/10
From Hell - Dont usually like to criticise a decent film for not being great but this is one of those exceptions. Good acting (except for a miscast Heather Graham), good premise (if a bit preposterous), good tone and mood, but rather slapdash direction. It's a good film but the potential was there if someone like David Fincher was involved for this to much much better.
And I havent read it, but you can just tell that Alan Moore's graphic novel must have been a corker.
7/10
The Jacket - A screenwriting train wreck if there ever was one. It's so convoluted and weak and characters so badly written that it's surprising you can actually sit through the whole thing and not hate it too much by the end. I think Adrien Brody rises well above the material and his performance might be the reason for the above.
On another note, at least it's an original script, even if it is a dog.
5.5/10
Serenity - Has a tv feel in almost every department from the characters to the writing to the look to the acting to the effects. But apart from that, I still couldnt get into it
Dont know how it made so many top lists of last year.
4.5/10
The 400 Blows - Easily Francois Truffaut's best film out of what I've seen and one of the true classics of cinema. You could loosely describe it as a "coming of age" film but it completely avoids the usual structure of such films and is a cinematic truimph in almost all departments. Guisseppe "Cinema Paradiso" Tornatore should have taken notes.
9/10
At Least The Jacket
#1478 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.234] on 2006/04/15 09:04:40
showed Kiera's perky little tits, that should raise it to a 7.5, unless you already adjusted for the curve, and it is really a 3.5.
Though, On The Substance Of The Movie,
#1479 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.234] on 2006/04/15 09:20:57
I have to disagree. I didn't find the plot all that convoluted. It was a standard 70's science fiction plot (Gene Wolfe, Phillip Dick, and Kate Wilhem, the great ones), once the time travel aspect is understood, the rest of it pretty much comes together. The character development was minimal for all but Brody's character, as it should be; the story could have been more detailed on why Kiera's life went to pot but that would have bogged things down.
Headthump
#1480 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/15 23:27:16
I wasnt referring to convoluted in regards to time travel, like you said it's the standard time travel plot.
How about explaining the sudden romanticism between the two that develops over two seconds, or the sheer bullshitness of her taking him in (yes I know it's christmas eve etc) and the numerous paradoxes that the script fails to address.
Sorry if I'm ranting, but I've seen too many half baked scripts lately (also see below).
#1481 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/15 23:28:54
Stay - another pseudo intellectual script that's not as intricate or clever as it thinks it is. Marc Foster seems to realise this and imbues the film with a billion visual tricks, some actually quite nifty. But none of it can really hide the flaws in the script. It's comptetently made and acted, but there's nothing in there that really satisfies you.
5.5/10
Elizabethtown - another turgid mess of a script, this time from Cameron Crowe. Essentially a meandering, lumbering and dull attempt at a coming of age story. Doesnt really give much to the actors to work with and they arent really good enough to rise above the material.
5/10
It Could Be Cultural Differences
#1482 posted by HeadThump [65.140.52.5] on 2006/04/16 01:57:02
or the sheer bullshitness of her taking him in (yes I know it's christmas eve etc
but taking in strays just doesn't strike me as that big of a deal, esp. since Kiera's character had a good reason to feel a kinship with Brody's character, even if at the time it may have been inexplicable to her.
I would like your take on some of the paradoxes; you likely noted things that I missed.
Headthump
#1483 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/16 19:51:49
fair enough, that and the sudden romanticim came across as too contrived for me. And I dont buy the kinship since upon their first meeting in the future, all he did was fix their car once.
Regarding paradox stuff, cant recall all bits specifically but the fact the he learns that he helps cure the kid but then also learns how to cure the kid in the future. If he had to learn how to cure the kid by going to the future, how could Keira have known that he helped cure him (as it hadnt happened yet) ?
And Two More
#1484 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/16 19:53:08
King Kong - Is it overlong and self indulgent ? Yes.
Is it Fun ? Sort of.
I actually enjoyed the first third more than the middle which went on far too long for my liking and with some very dodgy CGI. The 3 tyro fight was pretty well executed though. I also like the last third but felt that parts of it were too sentimental and romanticised. The effects work was probably at its best here too.
Naomi Watts again delivers (she is by far my favorite actress going around), putting in arguably the best blue screen performance to date.
Could have cut out the Jimmy character in its entirety without losing anything except a crap reference to Heart of Darkness.
6.5/10
Le Samourai - A bit too simple and lean to call great but there's no denying the understated brilliance of Jean Pierre Melville's crime/gangster classic. A man in complete control of the material, Melville strips down the crime film to its bare essentials with great attention to detail. Well worth a watch.
7.5/10
Good Example You Gave
#1485 posted by HeadThump [65.140.56.1] on 2006/04/16 21:21:09
While paradox is very difficult to avoid in Time Travel stories, that would qualify as a gaping plot whole you could drive a truck through. I saw
the movie when it first came out on DVD, but from what I can recall you are most likely right about the sequence disorder.
Heh, Hole,
#1486 posted by HeadThump [65.140.56.1] on 2006/04/16 21:31:02
HT's homonymicaly impaired.
#1487 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/21 21:01:44
Dark Water - not a big fan of the original, I only saw this because of Connelly and because my brother wanted to see it. Competently acted and surprisingly retains most of the plot and structure of the original. Despite not being a fan of Hideo Nakata's film, it was definitely much better than this, stronger drama and tighter direction.
5/10
Layer Cake - dull attempt to make another movie, although slightly harderedged, in the Lock Stock vein. Daniel Craig is quite good (finally understood whyhe was chosen for Bond) and its photographed nicely, but the script is all continuous exposition of new subplots and characters pretty much the whole way through, so much so that it doesnt leave room for much else. Sienna Miller looks hot too.
5.5/10
Whirlpool - classified as a noir, this is actually a so-so melodrama by Otto Preminger. The acting ranges from decent to bad throughout the film, as does the script. Suffers from the same issues that plagued Hitch's Spellbound as it treads similar psychoanalysis territory.
5/10
Domino - This must have crossed the "so bad it's good" line very early on because I kept watching even though it had a trainwreck of a script and the zenith of MTV type direction that just assualted your senses. Tony Scott's a hack, but this was even beyond his abilities, he must have had some help to direct something like this.
Still, it's sort of entertaining for a while till it just keeps going on and on (it's over 2 hrs, which is ar too long fo rsomething like this).
4/10
Dark Water With Spoilers
#1488 posted by bambuz [213.169.7.115] on 2006/04/22 07:12:06
I saw the original a few years back... I think there's some pondering of social trends there, like how kids are left alone so much nowadays (same in ring, parents are never around and kids just watch tv)... And then there's the whole theme of the mother abandoning the baby. With the elevator and the filthy water and all. Dunno, maybe I'm reading into things too much.
Bambuz
#1489 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/22 17:36:14
you're right, they are definitely there, and I was surprised they kind of ported those over to the remake too since it was marketed as a horror film there which it isnt really.
#1490 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/22 18:09:45
From Russia With Love - dont know why this is regarded as one of the best along with Goldfinger, I found it exceptionally tacky and boring.
3/10
Audition - Probably best to see this without any knowledge of the plot (although the cover gives a lot away) but suffice to say it finishes up completely different to where it started. There are not so subtle hints along the way as to where this is headed, but none of them still prepare you for the impact when it arrives. Havent seen any other stuff by Takeshi Miike but this was quite impressive. Dont know how well it would work a scond time around though.
7/10
Nitin:
#1491 posted by metlslime [71.202.21.157] on 2006/04/22 18:47:23
From Russia With Love - dont know why this is regarded as one of the best along with Goldfinger...
Well, people who like From Russia With Love (such as myself) like it becuase it's the least gadgety, gimmicky, and science-fictiony of the Bond movies (For Your Eyes Only is another one.) It feels more like an actual espionage film -- no death satellites, no world held hostage, etc.
I actually don't think Goldfinger is as good as people think -- it's got a good theme song, Pussy Galore, Oddjob, and the "i expect you to die" scene, but aside from that, Bond is a fairly unimpressive superagent and spends most of the movie letting his female friends die, and being goldfinger's prisoner.
Are Those
#1492 posted by megaman [84.63.37.18] on 2006/04/23 06:06:25
the timothy dalton bond movies?
I always liked those - way better than normal bond :)
A Friend Pointed Out
#1493 posted by bambuz [213.169.24.69] on 2006/04/23 15:43:09
that timothy dalton is too "feeling" for a Bond in the vein of the previous ones. He always seems somehow sulking and devastated and saying to the girls like "how do you feel?". Others womanized and shot people like hell, and were mentally rock-solid the whole time... Talk about psychopathy.
Metl
#1494 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/23 17:31:30
yeah it was definitely more Bond the secret agent rather than Bond the action hero, but I guess I just didnt find it interesting enough as an espionage film.
Megaman,
no this the second Bond film, with Sean Connery.
#1495 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/27 03:24:13
Land of The Dead - pretty good zombie flick with a nice dosage of subtext from Romero. Not exactly subtle in its critique, but it is reasonably effective. Of course, it works nicely as a zombie flick plain and simple, though the lack of any real narrative does hurt it a bit.
7/10
40 yr Old Virgin - I must have seen a completely different movie to most people because despite it being highly recommended and also one of the most well reviewed movies from last year, I found it extremely unfunny. I had heard a lot of things about a witty script, but this is as far from witty as I could imagine.
3/10
Le Cercle Rouge - Usually there are a handful of films that define a genre and showcase its highpoints. Sometimes there is one film that does it all. This is that film for the heist genre.
Jean Pierre Melville's masterpiece is impeccably acted, beautifully shot and directed by a man who knows he is in complete control. The confidence of the director in his material is exuded in almost every scene.
9/10
According to imdb, John Woo is currently working on a remake and although he is a massive Melville fan, IMHO there is no way he can replicate the brilliance if it aims to make any money whatsoever.
Cinderella Man - nice looking, feel good against the odds boxing film, mediocrely directed by Howard as usual but with two very good performances from Crowe and Giamatti that stops it from becoming too sappy. It does go on for far too long for what it is given that there is zero character development for any character. Overall though, worth a watch.
7/10
Tombstone - Second viewing, the first was a while back, I still dont like it. It just looks horribly forced, from the acting to the directing to the music. Val Kilmer is the one saving grace but he just draws attention to the ordinariness of the rest of the production.
4.5/10
The Girl with a Pearl Earring - Plodding, dull and uninteresting, mainly due to miscasting of the principle leads. Colin Firth was very unconvincing as Vermeer. Scarlett has a certain acting style (that she always adheres to) which works very well in some roles and makes her look like a lost puppy dog in others. In this one, she comes across as the latter.
3.5/10
A Beautiful Mind - Second viewing of this too and its still how I recall it from the first time round. Apart from a handful of scenes in the second half where Crowe flexes some acting muscles and Connelly lends good support, this is an awful awful film. The script is mostly to blame in my eyes, and then the hamfisted direction.
4.5/10
Wallace and Gromit - CotWR - Quite good, reaosnably witty and funny and the claymation is brilliant. Much better than some of the recent cropt of compuetr animated films like Madagascar and co.
7/10
Cinderella Man
#1496 posted by HeadThump [65.140.57.196] on 2006/04/27 08:51:38
I liked it too, esp. Giamatti and Crowe, and the actor who played Max Boer (am I remembering the right boxer, here?) should not be overlooked as his performance was well done. There was one incredibly bad distraction in the movie, Renee Zellweger's accent; it sounded comicaly contrived, like a WB cartoon character from the Bugs Bunny era more that an actual person.
Renee
#1497 posted by nitin [138.217.1.73] on 2006/04/28 03:31:20
sucks. I dont know why she still gets movies, she's not really all that good looking and she certainly cant act.
#1498 posted by nitin [138.217.3.59] on 2006/05/02 05:06:02
Love and Death - Some of Woody Allen's work is brilliant but this effort is one of the unfunniest and forced attempts at comedy I've seen since...well The 40 Yr Old Virgin. Hard to believe its from the same person who made Annie Hall, Manhattan and Crimes & Misdemeanors.
3/10
The Missing – surprised that this was a Ron Howard film, I counted exactly 3 instances of trademark howard sentimentality. That’s pretty good for a 130 min film. Not that this is well directed, an average directing job at best. But the performances are good, tommy lee jones and cate blanchett rising far above the material, and the script is reasonably decent even though its overlong and doesn’t really know how to end. Could have been better but not a bad attempt.
6/10
Pickpocket - I'm unable to pinpoint why exactly but I quite liked this. It goes against so many things that I think should be part of good films, yet it's very very easy to stay glued to the screen.
Voiceovers for information that acting should provide and completely neutral acting are the two prime examples of what I was referring to above. But used here, they work brilliantly. Having said all of that, I didnt quite find the end as moving as was intended.
Also, this would have to have been an influence on Taxi Driver to some extent.
7.5/10
Head in the Clouds - badly written, badly acted period drama. Stay well away.
3/10
Look Both Ways - very good debut from Sarah Watt with strong characterisations and a nicely woven screenplay, which although a little overscripted at times, is a welcome change from most australian scripts. I liked the nce use of animation throughout the film and the actors do a reasonably good job of bringing the story to the screen.
Steps into cliche territrory every now and then but on the whole, quite a quality film. Pity about the interlaced dvd transfer.
7.5/10
The Cooler - competently acted but awfully scripted movie that never quite knows what it wants to be and also runs through the cliche book, making sure none are left out. In the end I was quite underwhelmed despite the good performances by Macy, Baldwin and Bello.
5/10
#1499 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/05/18 05:18:52
Sleeper - Slightly better than Love and Death, but still not that good and definitely far below Allen's best work. You can see glimpses of what he would go on to do but this is fairly pedestrain material.
4/10
Assassination of Richard Nixon - works on most levels mainly due to an exceptional performance by Penn. Comparisons to Taxi Driver are hard to avoid and whereas that was a perfect venture into the disturbed mind, this suffers from never really making a credible enough transition for its character from self pitying loser to deranged psychopath. Still worth a watch for some brilliant acting.
7/10
Bandits - Picks up a bit once Blanchett is introduced but the script is terrible. And Bruce Willis is extremely annoying.
3.5/10
Frenzy - minor Hitchcock, but above avergae with some brilliant sequences. Unfortunately the characters are very unlikeable, the pacing is quite off and the whole thing isnt as good as the abovementioned sequences.
6.5/10
The Producers (2005) - Without even comparing it to the original movie, it is a poor attempt at a comedy/musical. Broderick is way out of his league in both singing and comedy. Lane is passable, Ferell is reasonable (till you start comparing at which point even he is second rate) and Thurman is not bad.
If you make a comparison, its the same film but with all that made the first one work and unfunny musical numbers and new jokes put back in.
4/10
Pride and Prejudice - Apart from being exceptionally well shot, it's not very good. The acting is ok, it's definitely not an oscar worthy performance from Knightley who is fairly stiff along with MacFardyen. Overal plot which I presume is from the novel is decent, but how it's been adapted into a screenplay is a bit of a mess.
5.5/10
Intacto - Spanish film (with some exchanges in English) set in a (real) world where Luck is a commodity that can be lost and acquired. Basically certain people have the capability of acquiring other people's luck and using it for their own advantage while condemning their 'victims' to ill fortune of various degrees. Script is heavy on plot, bit short onc haracterisation but it's quite stylish and the overall plot is failry interesting. Impressively Shot too.
7/10
Nitin
#1500 posted by megaman [84.63.9.95] on 2006/05/23 15:34:52
keep up the nice reviews!
Nitin
#1501 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2006/05/23 23:19:24
How do you have so many time to watch all these movies ? Do you work in a cinema or what ?
Jpl
#1502 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/05/24 01:18:42
no. Just have lots of dvds :)
Plus given that my old computer could not play any new games, I could use some of that spare time.
Also, my current job lets me get home at a decent hour.
Plus I obviously have no life :)
House Of Sand And Fog
#1503 posted by Tronyn [216.197.138.166] on 2006/05/25 20:22:46
I was very impressed. Prior to this I'd thought of Jennifer Connelly just as an actress who was often in good movies (Dark City has been a favourite of mine since it came out). However, I didn't really see her do any really standout acting until this movie. Maybe I forgot how much bite Requiem for a Dream had, or just the crazy mother's acting performance in that film overshadowed all others. The script for this movie was quite good, making a tragedy is hard, I think they fucked up 1 character for the sake of the plot, but still, overall it is very good and given the characters involved, fairly convincing. Anyway, Connelly does an excellent job, Kingsley's performance as Colonel Behrani might be even better but as I'm a guy I think I prefer her. Plus the fact that she always plays a lonely, depressed, often drug-addicted, but still incredibly hot young woman, erm, tends to sucker a lot of sympathy out of, ahem, stable and successful individuals like me.
Tronyn
#1504 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/05/26 02:39:51
yeah it is good, I thought the plotting was a little contrived but the actin more than made up for it. I like connelly in most the stuff she's done, but yes she dos eem to have one haracter down pat, although with usually sufficent subtle differences.
#1505 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/05/27 04:36:02
Autumn Sonata - When in form, Ingmar Bergmn makes absolutely brilliant stuff, when not so in form, his films are competently made and acted but come off as self-important and heavy handed. I found this one to be a fairly middle of the road Bergman with some very unnatural dialogue for its chracters (well subtitles anyway).
Well acted and shot, but some of the techniques used break up the film rather than add to it.
6/10
The Twilight Samurai - Highly acclaimed recent Samurai film from Japan but I found it to be thoroughly uninvolving. It's a harsh comparison, but compared to Kurosawa's stuff, this is fairly middle of the road. I'm no expert on the Samurai times, but the dialogue (subtitles again) and particular actions of certain characters just did not seem to be in line with the time period portrayed in the movie. That distracted me enough to not really like the film.
4/10
More
#1506 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/05/29 02:40:09
Wild Strawberries - A fairly decent self-reflection road movie by Ingmar Brgman punctuated with flashbacks and surreal dream sequences that seem to fuse with the current reality, as a professor looks back at his life on the day he is to receive an academic award. Some of it is quite heavy handed but there are also moments of precisely executed insight. As always, very well shot and acted.
7/10
Patton - Staggeringly brilliant military epic covering the second world war years in the life of George S Patton, the US war general who was a key figure in the allies' triumph. George C Scott puts in one of the finest performances ever (also a nice two hander to his turn in Dr Strangelove), the movie has at least half a dozen amazing sequences (eg the opening five minutes), and the script is a lesson in how to pace an epic movie without making it too bloated or too fleeting.
There are flaws, the script has issues despite being excelently paced as supporting players dont really get anything worthwhile to work with. Some of the supporting acting is also below par. But all of these flaws are minor in comparison to Scott's acting and the excellent direction by Schaffner.
9/10
Gallipoli - Hadnt seen it before, but this is undoubtedly THE australian film. It manages to encapsulate much of 'Australia' without ever appearing to try to do so. The performances are good and the direction is outstanding. The football scene at the base of the pyramids is one of many brilliant scenes. I dont think the section that dealt with the actual war was as good as what went before, it just didnt seem focused enough. Peter Weir made two big contributions to Australian film with this and Picnic at Hanging Rock.
8.5/10
Starship troopers - It's satire, and on more than one level, but its not a particularly clever one as it barely scratches the surface. But, on top of all that, it's also a pisstake on the american war film and is quite entertaining to watch because (a) it goes through every war movie cliche in glorious fashion and (b) the director probably didnt tell his C grade cast that this was satire and they play it (hammily) straight. It does go on a bit too long for what it is, I think Verheoven indulged himself a bit too much.
Also, managed to spot two references. A drill instructor doing joe pesci's "funny how" Goodfellas scene to one of his marines, and Kain's funeral scene from Alien.
7/10
#1507 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/06/01 07:06:14
Hard Eight (Sydney) - The first film from Paul Thomas Anderson, before he did Boogie Nights, Magnolia and Punch Drunk Love.
Featuring outstanding direction, a script that ranges from quite good to mediocre, strong supporting performances from Gwyneth Paltrow and Samuel L Jackson, an unconvincing performance from John C Reilly, and an absolute knockout turn by Phillip Baker Hall.
It may not be as polished or as sprawling as his later work but Hall's acting and excellent direction make it quite a worthwhile watch.
7/10
^^
#1508 posted by Blitz [63.97.37.210] on 2006/06/01 07:10:39
This is a movie I've wanted to see for a long time and have just kept forgetting about it. Thanks for reminding me :)
#1509 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/06/08 05:47:20
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - Incoherently scripted, dull, probably the worst of the lot. I cant say I'm a huge fan of the movies, the first one was decent and the only other one that was worth a watch was the third because of its style (its script was another story).
This is a step backwards in the style department and the scripting is as poor as the last two films (the first had a marginally better script than the rest). As for the spectacle, barring one or two sequences, I thought it was fairly pedestrian. Some of the special effects were actually quite poor.
4.5/10
Being There - 1979 film by Hal Ashby about a man who has gardened all his life and never left the house of "the old man". When the old man dies, he is forced to leave the house by the attroneys.
The overall plot is fairly preposterous and would usually result in the kind of film that milks cheap laughs. However, although the script is failry contrived in parts, this is a far superior effort with moments of brilliantly understated humour and seriousness at the same time. Overall, it's definitely more a drama film rather than a comedy, but the tone is somewhere in between.
What really lifts it is an amazing turn by Peter Sellers. Sellers never once resorts to any slapstick or big mannerisms or raising his voice to deliver a line. Its a remarkably restrained performance that fits the character like a glove and produces some excrutiatingly funny moments every now and then.
In the end though, it's a bit too long and the contrived scripting mentioned before does drag it down a little bit.
7.5/10
#1510 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/06/12 00:10:41
The Narrow Margin (1952) - fairly good film noir with some nice dialogue and atmosphere as usual. Some plot holes and unlikely character actions stop it from being great but a quality film nevertheless.
7.5/10
Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter...and Spring - Korean film about the cycle of rebirth and its excellently shot throughout. The first 20 min is brilliantly executed but the rest varies from mediocre to good as it turns into a "coming of age" story, albeit one with buddhist allegories and symbolism.
7/10
Read My Lips - 2002 French drama-thriller about an ex con and a woman who is deaf, and their dangerous relationship. Its very well written, when a script can bring out a character's past without having to resort to exposition or a flashback, it has to be good.
Of course, it's helped by some fantastic acting. Vincent Cassel puts is a brooding, restrained performance (once again demonstrating that when he actually puts his mind to it, he can actually act) and Emanuelle Devos is brilliant with her character's every nuance and action. Deservedly won the Best actress at the french equivalent of the Oscars.
If anything, the last 20 min comes across as a bit rushed and there's one unnecessary subplot, but this is not enough to really distract from an otherwise quality movie.
7.5/10
Anatomy of a Murder (1959) - one of the best courtroom dramas I've seen, not because the plot is complex or because the legalities are debated properly but because the characters are so well defined and because it's not interested in the specific details of the trial, but rather lets the viewer be as much of a judge of what happened as the jury.
It does unrealistically overplay the theatrics in some scenes (which is a given in any courtroom drama really), but I think some of that was needed due to the length (160 min or so).
James Stewart is very very good and George C scott is great once again.
8/10
Anatomy of a Murder (1959) - one of the best courtroom dramas I've seen, not because the plot is complex or because the legalities are debated properly but because the characters are so well defined and because it's not interested in the specific details of the trial, but rather lets the viewer be as much of a judge of what happened as the jury.
It does unrealistically overplay the theatrics in some scenes (which is a given in any courtroom drama really), but I think some of that was needed due to the length (160 min or so).
James Stewart is very very good and George C scott is great once again.
8/10
Sabrina (1954) - its not bad, but it's a far cry from Billy Wilder's best work. To me, he's at his best when he dealt with acerbic, dark/black material.
This was a fairly straightforward formula romance fantasy, with the occasional good line for Bogart to chew on. I dont know, I guess if you can buy the fantasy aspect of it, you might like it better.
5.5/10
#1511 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/06/12 00:11:41
A Love Song for Bobby Long - falters a bit in its last quarter, where it plays out very much as a self conscious indie film, but till then it's quite good. The characters are interesting and scarlett johansson puts in another strong performance. But, it's John Travolta as the cynical and bitter Bobby Long, that steals every scene.
7/10
Wow
#1512 posted by DaZ [80.42.201.48] on 2006/06/12 03:39:05
Anatomy of a Murder is so good you had to mention it twice? :D
Daz
#1513 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/06/12 06:52:52
I still obviously havent worked out how to cut and paste :)
Barbarella
#1514 posted by bambuz [82.181.177.128] on 2006/06/12 10:07:40
This was on TV the other day. Talk about weird. It also might have been "modern" and "scifi" during it's day but it's outdated more than anything I've seen (even Batman the movie). All the props are horrible plastic and bright colors. I bet the whole camp style must be done on purpose. Poor Jane Fonda is humiliated somewhat in the lead role.
I recommend as a curiosity but I couldn't bother watching it focused all through.
Thumbs Up
#1515 posted by bear [213.115.252.84] on 2006/06/12 13:16:46
for Eternal sunshine of the spotloess mind that I hadn't seen until today and Mindgame that I saw last night!
On A Bit Of A Roll
#1516 posted by nitin [138.217.0.11] on 2006/06/18 08:24:16
Dead Man - 1996 movie by Jim Jarmusch with Johnny Depp and a number of cameos. Depp plays William Blake, an accountant who moves to a far west town for a new job, gets involved in trouble, and goes on the run with a mixed indian who thinks he's a reincarnation of the poet William Blake.
It's overly long, 20 to 30 min too long, weird for the sake of being weird, employs an irritating fade out technique, but it also has a mood that fascinated me. The improvised score by Neil Young is also intriguing, but the way its used gets annoying after a while.
6/10, most of it for the mood/atmosphere and for some quite funny black humour.
Alice doesnt live here anymore - early Scorsese film which has dated a fair bit, but the acting and directing remain strong. The characterisations are interesting and the script is nicely written.
7/10
Almost Famous - it was better this second viewing, but I still dont really understand what all the fuss was about. Sure, it has a very good soundtrack and Kate Hudson, Jason Lee and Phillip Seymour Hoffman are perfect in their roles, but the script has a number of flow and pacing issues. Also, the whole thing has an air of self conscious preciousness about it, that tends to dominate. An above average movie, but I realise I'm in the minority with that opinion.
6.5/10
Nightmare Alley (1947) - first rate film noir, with the usually wooden Tyrone Power in a terrificly performed role, he really is quite good here.
The atmosphere is as dark and murky as you want a noir to be and the story is very interesting and moves along at a nice clip.
7.5/10
The Ice Harvest - Quite a decent little quirky, black comedy thriller with john cusack, billy bob thronton and connie nielsen. Nothing too fancy, but it moves briskly through it's 80 min runtime and is fairly entertaining. The last 15 min or so are in the wrong tone compared to the rest of the film. Dont know if changing the tone in that period would have made a huge difference, but the change in tone was certainy jarring.
Oliver platt's cameo is hilarious.
7/10
The Life and Death of Peter Sellers - poorly directed but well acted sort of biopic. Doesnt really cover a timespan, or a particular event or series of events, but is just an all over te place attempt at looking at Peter Sellers, the person.
Fails miserably in that regard because the script never really bothers looking beyond the actions of Sellers and is just really a series of vignettes. Hopkins tries his best to cover this up, using numerous tricks, changing film stocks regularly, but all to no avail in the end.
The one saving grace is Geoffrey Rush, who does remarkable imitations in numerous Sellers roles (predominantly Inspector Closeau, Dr Strangelove and Chancy Gardener). But unfortunately, due to the thin script, that's all he does, imitations. He is never allowed to make it more than that, which is a bit of a pity.
5/10
Amarcord (1973) - considered the last of Fellini's great films, but i just couldnt get into it.
It's shot beautifully and Nino Rota provides another brilliant score, but all the characters are caricatures and every situation and personality is exaggerated to cartoon strip level. Everyone deliberately yells and acts in a manic fashion, I just found it very distracting and annoying.
4/10
Where the Truth Lies - supposedly Atom Egoyan's most mainstream movie, which may well be the case, but this is hardly mainstream cinema.
Featuring a fabulous plot, that although is fairly convoluted, is smartly linked together. Unfortunately, Egoyan's script suffers in key moments where he doesnt quite know how to bring out the revelations (and that's not a spoiler, the movie's a mystery from the start). So, some of the punch is taken out, as characters need to go through some fairly heavy exposition.
Also, a lot of how much you like this movie will depend on Alison Lohman. I found her to be fairly reasonable, although admittedly it's obvious she's in way over her head. There's also some fairly gratituous nudity which wasn't all that necessary, the seedy atmosphere was already established and it ended up lessening rather than adding to the movie's tone.
6.5/10
I Agree With You
#1517 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.229] on 2006/06/18 11:26:24
on Phillip Seymour Hoffman playing Lester Bangs, and Jason Lee as a Ronnie Van Zandt type were enjoyable rolls to watch and excellent casting in Almost Famous.
I was not crazy about Kate Hudson's role. It may not realy be her acting that was off putting to me as how her roll was framed as some kind of Queen of the Groupies. How her part was presented and used in the film was silly and for me that is where much of the distracting preciousness of the film comes in.
But, overall, I would give the movie a better rating than 6.5 just for the good vibe it generates.
Troy
#1518 posted by R.P.G. [24.28.249.10] on 2006/07/09 20:46:58
Wow. That was worse than I thought it would be.
Treasure Hunt
#1519 posted by aisha [62.252.96.16] on 2006/07/11 13:45:54
firm and reflective
Treasure Hunt
#1520 posted by aisha [62.252.96.16] on 2006/07/11 13:46:02
firm and reflective
What
#1521 posted by Kinn [86.141.142.213] on 2006/07/11 14:37:10
what
Hmm, Firm And Reflective
#1522 posted by HeadThump [65.140.53.21] on 2006/07/11 14:44:15
sounds like boobies where you can see the silicon sacks through the skin.
Happens sometimes with strip club black lighting.
Treasure Hunt
#1523 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/07/11 15:39:54
Looks like a spambot feeler.
#1524 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/07/29 06:41:53
Match Point - Hmm, it's very un-Allen like, except for the chanelling of Bergman's moral dilemmas that was also present in Crimes and Misdemeanors. But unlike that film, this is all very serious.
It's a fairly standard melodrama given almost A grade treatment. I say almost because it's bit uneven. The dialogue ranges from pretty good to downright emabrassing, the acting by the prinicpals doing the same.
Still, in the end it turns out to be a decent film, despite a clumsily handlex climax.
7/10
Flightplan - has been compared to Panic Room, and content wise, it's an understandable comparison.
But whereas that was an above-average film with at least a well made 2/3, this is an almost serviceable thriller from the start and never really rises above that at any stage. It's all competently done but the script has quite a few holes and given that there is only real one possible outcome right from the beginning, there is zero suspense apart from some procedural mechanics.
5/10
Brokeback Mountain - After seeing Good Night and Good Luck, I thougt Clooney was robbed.
I change my mind. Faultless. Not perfect, but faultless. I know it's been criticised for pacing, but I found it to be spot on.
And the controversy it stirred up is mind boggling, but I wont get into that. The most unpretentious and nonjudgmental film (towards its characters) I've seen in quite a while.
9/10
The Hidden Fortress - fairly decent film from Kurosawa about a samurai general who has to escort a princess of a rebel alliance through enemy terrirtory.
Well written and expertly directed (excellent use of the frame once again by kurosawa), but it falters at the end IMHO and the two slapstick sidekicks vary in their irritability.
7/10
The Hidden Fortress - fairly decent film from Kurosawa about a samurai general who has to escort a princess of a rebel alliance through enemy terrirtory.
Well written and expertly directed (excellent use of the frame once again by kurosawa), but it falters at the end IMHO and the two slapstick sidekicks vary in their irritability.
7/10
The Hidden Fortress - fairly decent film from Kurosawa about a samurai general who has to escort a princess of a rebel alliance through enemy terrirtory.
Well written and expertly directed (excellent use of the frame once again by kurosawa), but it falters at the end IMHO and the two slapstick sidekicks vary in their irritability.
7/10
McCabe and Mrs Miller - Robert Altman's 1971 film is one of the top 5 westerns of all time IMHO, and unlike any other western ever made. The best comparison I can make is to the tv show Deadwood, but even that is an inaccurate desciption.
It features all the trademark Altman touches, overlapping dialogue with multiple conversations going on at once and a strong sense of mood and atmosphere. Warren Beatty and Julie Christie are very good as the title characters and it's very well shot, although it is perhaps a bit too detriorated looking (apparently they flashed the film negative by exposing it to light to give it more of a deteriorated look).
If anything, it goes a bit too long but this is clearly the work of someone in control of their material.
8.5/10
Dr No - only the third Bond film I've liked (apart from Goldeneye and Goldfinger), and it's probably because he actually goes about his business like a spy, not just go from setpiece to setpiece like some superhero.
Plus here they werent consicious of the whole James Bond image, and could actually attach a decent film to the character.
7/10
The Spy Who Loved Me - Apart from some nice on location shooting in Egypt, this was fairly bad. Roger Moore was just too smarmy in his portrayal of Bond, Connery and Brosnan were much better.
4/10
Day for Night - quite possibly the greatest movie about making movies (havent seen 8 1/2 yet), Francois Truffaut's exceptional 1973 film is extremely well written and directed.
What could have been an absolute mess is instead a fabulously crafted movie with a cast that understands what the director is trying to do, and some nice moments of good humour.
8.5/10
Bloody Hell
#1525 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/07/29 06:44:26
instead of Hidden Fortress being repeated thrice, here's what should have been there :
Memoirs of a Geisha - a complete guide on how to make an entire film in the wrong tone. Much has been made of Dion Beebe's cinematography, which is nice, but the only reason this is even remotely watchable is becuase of John Williams' excellent score.
2/10
The Lost Weekend - A well written, well acted film, despite being overly theatrical in its depiction of alcholism.
But Billy Wilder's trademark dialogue and Ray Milland's effective performance keep it going. Unfortunately, the ending is a big letdown, smelling a lot of studio influence/interference.
There also a handful of scenes that date it a fair bit, but all in all a decnt film.
7/10
Nitin:
#1526 posted by metlslime [67.188.209.101] on 2006/07/29 17:13:38
A mention about The Hidden Fortress -- George Lucas has said that Star Wars is not based on The Hidden Fortress, but it was fun watching to see how many parallels there are.
Dr. No was one of my favorite connery bond movies, and the connery movies were generally my favorite of the series. The Spy Who Loved Me and Moonraker were pretty much the height of the silly, over-the-top Roger Moore era, so while they were entertaining they were not his best. I think The Man With The Golden Gun or For Your Eyes Only were probably my favorite Moore bond films, becuase TMWTGG was the least formulaic of the plotlines (for example, it's the only bond movie that ends with a small, 1-on-1 battle instead of a huge spectacle with an army of good guys fighting an army of bad guys.) FYEO got back to the espionage roots of Dr. No and From Russia With Love and was a lot less silly becuase of it.
I also agree with your score for McCabe & Mrs. Miller. Just as in MASH, Altman seemed to prefer to set up scenes with everyone talking/mumbling over each others. Also interesting about McCabe, I believe he shot the entire thing with ambient light (which contributes to the murky look of the interiors.)
As for brokeback mountain, I admired the craftmanship of the movie and the impartiality of the storytelling, but found that I just didn't care about the characters, and didn't see much depth or complexity to them.
Metl
#1527 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/07/30 00:43:44
yeah I knew the Star wars link, and for once it's definitely a case of inspired by rather than derivative of. And the parallels extend all the way through the first 3 eps, rather than just the first film.
About Dr No, see I thought this one did a lot better what people liked about From Russia With Love.
McCabe was indeed shot with ambient light alone, which is why I didnt understand the need to further deteriorate the look by flashing the film.
Yeah, I've heard a few people say that about Brokeback, I can understand the "not caring for the characters" thing, that will vary from person to person but I did think the characters definitely had depth.
#1528 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/07/30 00:49:07
That Obscure Object of Desire - Luis Bunuel's last movie I believe, and this time the surrealism comes from having two actresses play the same role throughout the movie, almost randomly.
It takes a a little while to get used to, but it does work well, especially when you see what the movie's trying to do. It's still very abstract, but as with most of Bunuel's work, even if you dont get most of it, it's still easy to watch and like.
This one, amongst other things, tinkers with the idea of whether a loving relationship can be had without having sex.
7.5/10
#1529 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/01 04:14:32
Aeon Flux - I was expecting something awful, this was just bad not awful. In fact, buried under the terrible screenplay were the makings of a fairly decent film. The action scenes were from the Generic Action Factory, all quick cutting to hide the bad choreography. Even Charlize didnt look as hot as she should in a skintight outfit.
3.5/10
Gosford Park - Robert Altman's bloated 2001 film is decent overall but really nosedives in the second half.
It starts out extremely well, and once again you couldnt mistake it for being a film by anyone else other than Altman, but the further it goes along, the more schizophrenic it becomes in terms of tone. And I found the different tones quite jarring in the second half. It also goes on far to long for what it is.
As for the good stuff, the writing is generally good, the acting excellent and the mood amazing.
7/10
#1530 posted by redfella [66.49.88.154] on 2006/08/01 09:57:39
Swimming with Sharks - Kevin Spacey in mid-career decides to do a B-grade drama. Probably so for personal rather than professional reasons. Film content could make for great lunch conversation for Spacey possibly.
The flick is portrayed as a comedy via its boxart/marketing, but its anything but a comedy... It doesn't even sum up as a dark comedy at that. It is drama. Drama in a poor Tarentino knock-off kind of way. Writing is ok, but its is also where the movie fails. The dialogue is nice, but the story doesn't work. Spacey plays his character as best as it can be played, but his performance is undermined by poor event sequencing. Productions values are b-grade throughout, but that usually doesn't matter if there is a good story to fall on (but in this case there isn't). I think this movie might portray a cynical, nihilistic view of Hollywood that is not based on reality.
Nothing really to see here, move along.
Beyond The Wall Of Sleep
#1531 posted by . [70.224.247.73] on 2006/08/01 21:23:38
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt027968...
Anyone seen this? I don't think I'm in for much, but seeing Lovecraft's name on a 2006 movie caught my eye and I rented it. I'm about to watch it, I'll let you know how it is.
I'm not a Lovecraft reader so I won't be able to compare...
Phait
#1532 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/02 02:00:11
they're not mostly accurate, but the imdb ratings are a good guide.
3.6/10 isnt looking good.
Yep
#1533 posted by . [70.224.247.73] on 2006/08/02 02:17:04
I watched maybe half of it and skimmed through the rest - its like a B movie with forced/bad acting and annoying editing/cutting.
#1534 posted by redfella [66.49.88.154] on 2006/08/02 07:30:19
Bulworth - A pleasant surprise. I wasn't expecting much from this flick, but it turned out to be great. Beatty creates a fantastic study of movie methodology via "a day in the life of" formula. The story is outlandish, but at the same time, absolutely believable... This is due to Beatty's fine writing.
There is only one logic flaw that I noticed, however, its at the very end of the movie, and by the time you get to that point you have already come to accept and believe these characters to be absolutely real that you can easily imagine a different solution to the one presented and then all is well.
I recommend checking this one out if you haven't already. Plus it has some *very* funny parts in it.
8.5/10
Tv Movies
#1535 posted by bambuz [193.167.7.18] on 2006/08/04 03:57:40
As I've been living at my parents' place without internet for a while, I've been watching a lot of TV movies. Just browsing the channels until suddenly I hit something interesting.
I'd like to mention two that have left an impression. I suggest watching these if they happen to be on your local tv channels.
Fingersmith (2005) is a two-part BBC drama. (I didn't even know about the second part until I accidentally saw it.) It's a story about well, some characters living in 1800:s London. The plot is quite interesting and not all misery, and the acting is done with great feeling. I really don't like to tell too much of movies beforehand, I don't recommend reading the IMDB blurbs on any movies either, they just ruin the feeling. It's based on a book, which might explain much of the complexity of the plot. It has also some love scenes that are actually somehow beautiful compared to a lot of the cliche and crud that's around.
Elsker dig for evigt (2002) or in english "Open Hearts" is a dogma film from Denmark. It's a drama about people and well, extreme feelings they go through when life deviates from status quo. I like the acting here, it seems quite natural and believable. The dogma style fits so well too, with the cameras and all. I've seen a swedish movie from 2004 that dealt with many of the same themes, but it failed to convince me. It somehow went over-the-top and the drama was more screaming. This is a pretty placid movie in outward expressions (at least the later part) of the people and the tension is built with your mirror neurons when you understand what the people are thinking and feeling.
Don't read the IMDB pages, they reveal too much of the plots.
Uh
#1536 posted by bambuz [193.167.7.18] on 2006/08/04 04:02:59
well, the fingersmith has actually three parts. Hmm, I didn't remember that. I saw the first part so much earlier and the latter two in a rerun that the first two merged into one in my mind or something.
#1537 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/04 23:10:59
Un FLic - Not in the same class as Le Samourai or Le Cercle Rouge, but this is another classy crime/heist film from Jean Pierre Melville. Everything Melville is there, the effortlessly cool mood, the excellent scene compositions and another commanding turn from Alain Delon. The script and story, however, are not as great as in the two films above.
There's also one scene which badly betrays the low budget, however, it doesnt detract too much from the overall film.
7/10
Hiroshima Mon Amour - Alan Resnais' stunning 1959 movie features a great time shattering narrative, which despite being copied and imitated many times, is still strikingly effective.
The story of a woman who embarks on an affair whilst in post-war Hiroshima, Resnais paints an impressive parallel between a woman trying to forget her past and move on whilst being in the city trying to do the same.
I thought the ending was slightly abrubt and occasionally the acting not upto scratch, but this is one of the great ones.
8/10
#1538 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/07 22:05:03
The Man on the Train (2002) - A recent frenc film with an interesting premise : Two men meet by chance and conclude that each would prefer and be more suited to the other's life. One being a bank robber and te other a retired poetry teacher.
What follows though is a ponderous, contrived drama/thriller with a great mood but not much more. It starts off as a western, goes through a buddy/odd couple mode, and then turns into a standard thriller. Patrice Leconte just doesnt quite bring it all together. Disappointing.
4/10
Raising arizona - It's reasonably clever, has good performances form nicolas cage and holly hunter & brilliant camerawork from Barry Sonnenfeld, but I just didnt find it all that funny.
Easy to sit through because of the great cinematography (which is also a lesson on how to have skilled camerawork without needing beautiful imagery), but like The Big Lebowski, I found this to be a disappointing Coen brothers effort. Strange, because usually I find their work quite witty and funny, but their two genuine attempts at comedy havent worked for me.
5/10
In Cold blood (1967) - Richard Brooks' adaptation of Truman Capote's famous novel is an interesting but ultimately flawed film.
The look of the film pretty much sums up the problems. It's going for a documentary feel, yet the use of cinemascope takes away from this severely. Not taking anything away from Conrad L Hall's work, that is brilliant as usual but it highlights the inherent problems with the movie.
It's a fairly decent look at two non-psychopath murderers, but the direction is a bit heavy handed, the length overly long and a lot of the drama artificial.
But, the acting is quite good, the cinematogrpahy often brilliant (despite the scope issue above) and the plot reasonably interesting.
7/10
#1539 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/08 07:17:23
Capote - It does make a nice double with In Cold Blood, the different focus of the two films making for interesting viewing.
Firstly, Hoffman did deserve his oscar (although personally I dont think he was necessarily better than Ledger), conveying the shortcomings of the title character that make it a difficult role to play, and a level of magnetism necessary to do so.
The film, however, doesnt really have much to offer apart from Hoffman's brilliant characterisation. It's all well made and put together but there's not much to it.
Still, there could have been many worse things to centre a film around than an excellent performance, and overall it's definitely very good.
7.5/10
As a side note, the two movies presnet the facts slightly differently, especially sequence of events. I have no idea which is more accurate, but it was interesting to see and compare the slight, but important differences.
#1540 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/11 23:12:36
Night Watch (2005) - well I dont know what all the fuss was about, I thought this was completely atrocious. It's no worse than standard hollywood crap like Constantine yet that gets lambasted while this gets praise.
2/10
Ghost in the Shell 2 : Innocence - worse than the first, which was above averae at best anyway, in every regard.
The mesh of 2d and 3d animation is ok, nothing psectacular, the action is shot very poorly and the rest is not worth talking about.
3/10
Aww
#1541 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.191] on 2006/08/12 00:48:31
I just watched Ghost in the Shell a few days ago and I totally love it. The soundtrack + "slow sequences" create such an awesome atmosphere.
Spirit
#1542 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/12 02:51:10
the first or the second ?
I'll admit the first has some nice atmosphere and a great soundtrack, but the sequel is awful.
Weird
#1543 posted by DaZ [80.41.167.222] on 2006/08/12 03:03:51
I just watched the 1st one the other day as well, and yeah I thought the atmosphere was nice but it was too slow imo though the action was nice.
I got the sequel too, haven't watched it yet though.
The First One
#1544 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.191] on 2006/08/12 04:52:50
And I would love some recommendations of movies in a similar style.
I'm Not The Best Person
#1545 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/12 07:49:05
for anime, but have you tried the series that came out of the movie ?
ghost in the shell : Stad alone complex
I didnt personally like it much, but it does have a very similar style to the movie.
And I Just Finished Watching Some Shit
#1546 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/12 08:01:29
Seabiscuit - badly scripted, badly directed, overlong, oversentimental movie about the depression era underdog racehorse. Shot nicely in parts, but it's sorely lacking in almost all other areas.
5/10
V for Vendetta - I got the same feeling while watching this that I got when I saw From Hell - that Alan Moore's graphic novel must have been very very good.
But whereas From Hell was a semi decent film, this is absolutely terrible. And the blame rests squarely on the awful script from the wachowski brothers. I assume their 'adaptation' left certain parts of Moore's work untouched and the rest was rewritten, because the discrepancy in quality in the writing is very noticeable throughout the movie.
The performances were ok, all involved have done better though. And the action scenes are once again poorly shot.
3/10
V For Vendetta
#1547 posted by . [70.224.202.201] on 2006/08/12 09:58:56
Bah, 8/10!
I have the graphic novel and I admire both, even though there's much more depth in the novel.
I Watched V For Vendetta
#1548 posted by HeadThump [65.140.58.124] on 2006/08/12 10:48:30
last weekend. I could point out a few weeknesses in the editing, script, and a few improbable things, but overall it was an excellent movie. 8/10 easily.
Natalie Portman deserves a mention for her solid performance as well. Though it is hard to grade someone who is that distractingly easy on the eyes except when they are absolutely awful like in the Star Wars trilogy.
V For Vendetta
#1549 posted by Vigil [88.112.241.76] on 2006/08/12 12:16:29
I got the impression that the Wachowski brothers weren't trying to follow the comic exactly, but rather make a film based on their interpretation. And here I think they did a wonderful job, I enjoyed the movie thoroughly, even though I could point out a lot of the changes. I love the original version, but that didn't stop me from enjoying the movie.
Nitin, I very highly recommend the comic, it's some of the best writing released in the late 20th century.
Well
#1550 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/12 18:57:54
clearly in the minority :)
But the half baked, pseudo-intellectual script (much like the last 2 matrix films) just pissed me off.
Vigil,
I've heard that about From Hell too. Have you read/got that one too ?
James McTeigue
#1551 posted by HeadThump [65.140.56.84] on 2006/08/12 19:48:01
I'm beginning to wonder if it was his work in the original Matrix as Assistant Director that made that film work so well. The feeling of Hitchcock suspense in the first part of that movie had a similar feel that V for Vendetta conveyed throughout.
Nitin...
#1552 posted by distrans [131.172.4.45] on 2006/08/16 21:04:12
...I felt that stylistically Stand Alone Complex differed quite markedly from GitS. The depth of some of the set pieces in GitS was never repeated in SAC. I'm talking here of scenes like the tank battle in the museum; involving the now iconic destruction of the tree of life. SAC is pure action anime and never repeats the long sequences of exposition and reflection present in GitS.
I quite enjoyed watching SAC, but only because I quickly realised it wasn't going to be anything like the movie (in artistic or philosophical depth). There were even some comedic moments in the series (those pesky robots!). I've lectured on GitS but doubt I'd get more than an after dinner address out of SAC.
Distrans
#1553 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/17 05:30:23
like I said, I'm not the best person for anime :)
I noticed the 'comedy', but I put that down to being an anime series requirement of sorts. But otherwise, I can see what you're saying, I just cant say I noticed it whilst watching. Which most likely has to do with the fact that I didnt care much overal for GitS.
The tank sequence had to be inspiration for the matrix lobby scene though.
GITS2
#1554 posted by than [220.47.234.129] on 2006/08/17 07:20:15
was ass.
I'm not the best person to ask about anime either, but it was. It was the sort of gibberish you get from a lot of Japanese anime and game stories, and only worth watching for some of the visuals. Even then there are so many more beautiful films to see.
Ass/10
Can we have an ass icon? I thought Daikatana DM was really cool, and some of the SP maps weren't bad either, but it was the closest to ass I could find :(
GITS
#1555 posted by than [220.47.234.129] on 2006/08/17 07:21:19
I did enjoy the first film though. That was cool.
#1556 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/19 00:06:42
I Wake Up Screaming - minor noir, above average overall, but the script and direction firmly keep it in first gear.
6/10
The Double Life of Veronique (1991) - The Three Colours trilogy was great but this is something else. It's like watching all three of them at once.
About two women in two different countries (Poland and france), who somehow feel connected with one another, Kieslowski's film is arguably filled more symbolsim than any other film in recent memory.
I cant say I understand everything, but as was the case with Mulholland Drive, enough made sense to me to revel in the great filmmaking. The acting by Irene Jacob is brilliant, the direction outstanding, and the look & score amazing.
And it's one those movies that will undoubtedly offer more on repeated viewings.
9/10
Thunderball - The last of the Connery Bond films that I hadnt seen and it's not bad, but just...lacklustre I guess. It never really gets out of first gear, but never drops below a certain level either.
6/10
Ahem
#1557 posted by starbuck [81.154.91.209] on 2006/08/19 04:49:08
Snakes on a Plane
A tour de france. A balls-out family romp.
"Snakes on crack?! That's all we need!"
Seriously though, this ticks most of the cliche boxes, and knows it's doing it. Seeing as it's a half-parody already, I thought it could have been even more ridiculous though, but as it is it'll give you a few laughs, a few titties, and a few brutal deaths.
V For Vendetta
Not as bad as everyone seems to be making out! Not up to the original Matrix, but better than the sequels I thought. As nitin pointed out, there's a bit of the lazy psuedo-intellectual feel that they gave to the scenes with the architect in the matrix trilogy, that's here as well.
I'm not sure it's got a lot of depth to it, but it's a good ride... it looks great and the soundtrack is bang on. I'm not convinced by Natalie Portman in this though... lovely though she is, she just wasn't all that convincing, although that might be partly down to the script, partly her slightly shoddy 1950s english accent.
The Big Sleep
Just fantastic. The script for this is brilliant, so witty. Bogart is maybe the suavest man ever. Definitely deserves to be up there with Casablanca. Can anyone recommend any similar film noirs? Nitin, you seem to have seen them all :)
Starbuck
#1558 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/19 08:41:41
I love the big sleep, and yeah the script is great.
Similar styled and/or greatly scripted noirs (roughly in order of quality) :
The Maltese Falcon
Chinatown
Out of the Past
Double Indemnity
The Killers
The Third Man
Night and the City
Key Largo
Should Mention
#1559 posted by nitin [138.217.3.207] on 2006/08/19 08:42:43
watched Key Largo again recently, and liked it much better this time around. Dont know why, and I still dont think it's a great film, but it is good.
Ah
#1560 posted by starbuck [81.154.91.209] on 2006/08/19 09:20:12
cheers nitin, I'll look into those. I've heard great things about the Maltese Falcon, so I'll try and get hold of that next.
Have You The Petrified Forest?
#1561 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.203] on 2006/08/19 11:46:26
Considered the granddaddy of film noir, but I have never seen it. Is it worth spending an extra bit of money searching rarity shops for it?
It's Fill In The Blanks Day For Me Today
#1562 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.203] on 2006/08/19 11:48:09
I noticed a buch of those errors in my last post to Mike!
#1563 posted by nitin [138.217.3.199] on 2006/08/19 18:16:07
I've walked past Petrified Forest many times in the video shop, might give it a whirl someday.
Starbuck,
Maltese Falcon isnt as tightly plotted as Big Sleep, but the script is still very very good and Bogart is again great. Chinatown is IMHO the best script ever. Double Indemnity and Out of the Past have great 'dialogue' scripts.
Also Some More
#1564 posted by nitin [138.217.3.199] on 2006/08/19 18:36:54
The Leopard (1963) - Scorsese and Coppola are always raving about this italian movie in interviews and it's not hard to see why.
Supremely directed epic period melodrama by Luchino Visconti. The cinematography and music are amazing, and no doubt inspired they way The Godfather was made. The movie itself was a bit hard to connect with, but the longer it went on, the easier it became. Perhaps, it was my extremely limited knowledge of Italy's history.
To go with the direction, the performances are strong, despite the multilingual cast causing a lot of dubbing to be used. Perhaps the best compliment would be to say that I hardly noticed the dubbing.
Burt Lancatser, surprisingly, makes a very good old fashioned Italian Aristocrat, Alain Delon is effective as the new age italian man (although it's unusual seeing him in a non-Melville film where he defined "cool") and Claudia Cardinale is very hot as the 'girl'.
8/10
Syriana - effectively made by the same team as Traffic, and has effectively the same problems. Namely, the same sense of self conscious 'importantness' because it's dealing with a current, important topic.
Having said that, it also the same strengths as Traffic, good acting, high production values and a strong sense of authencity.
The main problem is Gaggan's script, it's very messy, and there doesnt really seem to be a reson for it apart form trying to come across as "complicated". The dynamics of the plot are interesting enough by themselves, I dont know why it was felt that it had to be fragmented and spatially divided as it was.
Worth watching, and above average overall, but could hae been more effective.
6.5/10
V For Vendetta
#1565 posted by . [70.224.202.201] on 2006/08/19 21:33:57
A common misconception is that the movie/dialogue (especially V's) is pretentious and 'pseudo-intellectual', but this comes from people who haven't even read the graphic novel.
You'd say the same thing about that. So consider the film's source and don't write it off as some Wachowski cliche.
Phait
#1566 posted by nitin [138.217.3.199] on 2006/08/19 21:45:18
maybe, but screenwriting is more than just lifting lines from a page.
What may soundgood when you read it, doesnt necessarily sound good when you say it. And it's not just the writing, but the delivery that adds to the 'psued-intellectual' feel.
#1567 posted by nitin [138.217.3.199] on 2006/08/21 05:32:31
36 Quai Des Orfevres (2004) - unconvincing and highly derivative mix of the gritty crime films of the 70's and the blockbusters of today. Movie concerns two rival senior police officers cometing against each other fo a promotion by attempting to catch a local mob.
There was potential here but the direction ranges from poor-average and the script doesnt quite know what it wants to be. There are some very good scenes at time, mainly due to Daniel Auteiul who is vry good in his role and te occasional bit of sharp dialogue.
But for every good scene, there's a bad one. And the action, whislt good, is lifted directly from Heat. Actually, the movie does try to be Heat in other areas but fails.
Hollywood remake on the way, with Deniro and Clooney. Like I said, lots of potential, so remake could be better.
5.5/10
#1568 posted by nitin [138.217.3.199] on 2006/08/22 18:07:39
Wolf creek - No more than what you expect it to be, but it's made with great skill Doesnt quite rival the first hour of High Tension, but then it doesnt have the silliness of the last 15 min of that movie either. I didnt find the first half hour boring/uninteresting as a lot of people claim, then again I dont mind movies that dont jump straight into the action. Also, the first 30 min probably contains some of the best shots of the aussie landscape put on film.
The rest of it iswell made and quite tense (also liked the homages towards Picnic at Hanging Rock and duel). Not as gory as I was expecting, but that is a good thing, as a lot of modern day horror films mistake gory for scary. In two minds over John Jaraat, he's menacing when he breaks out of the aussie outback ocker schtick, but that doesnt really happen often enough. It's a deliberate choice but didnt really work for me completely. Still, well made, and much better than the recent bunch of american horror crap.
7/10
#1569 posted by nitin [138.217.3.199] on 2006/08/24 03:54:12
La Ceremonie (1995) - Considered to be one of the prolific Claude Chabrol's best films, this slow burn, moody and ultimately unsettling movie is indeed very very good.
Concerning an upper class french family who hire a new maid with something not quite right about her and her subsequent friendship with the local post office clerk who is also slightly off normal, it is a beautifully acted film by a who's who of french actresses (isabelle huppert, jacqueline bisset, sandrine bonnaire and virginie ledoyen) and is also assuredly directed and excellently written. It takes its time laying all the cards on the table, before unassumingly going on towards its inevitable climax.
If anything, I thought it could have been shot better to heighten the mood (especially the lighting), but as it is, this is still quite a classy watch.
7.5/10
I'm Not Much Of A Critic...
#1570 posted by than [220.47.234.129] on 2006/08/24 08:34:16
...and these aren't films - they are BBC natural world documentaries, but I suggest anyone with an ounce of interest in what goes on in our planet watches them as soon as possible as they all contain beautiful photography and exceptionally interesting subjects.
If you can't see them on TV, you can get them on DVD (which I recommend, as they contain really great behind the scenes extras), but they are also very easy to track down in high quality formats through slightly more illegal channels.
Each programme usually runs for around 50 minutes.
Life in the Undergrowth - 5 part series about the life of various insects. Some really amazing stuff in here, including a mammoth centipede that hunts bats, spiders that poach the catches of larger spiders, ants that kill trees and more. Some of these just blew me away.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sn/tvradio/pr...
The Blue Planet - A series of 8 programmes about life in the sea. I saw this a long time ago, so I don't remember all the programmes that well, but I do remember the second programme about what lives down in the darkest depths of the oceans was very cool, and contained some extremely odd creatures. My least favourite of these series, but certainly worth checking out.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/progra...
Planet Earth - 5 part series about life on the planet. Obviously not as in-depth as the others, but still as in-fucking-credible. I've only seen the first in the series so far, and I nearly shed a tear when I saw the little elephant trying to find it's parents out in the desert. Amazing slow motion shot of a shark snatching a seal too. Really, incredible stuff.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/animal...
There is also an extremely awesome Channel 4 programme about the science team that was studying the aftermath of Chernobyl floating around out there that I thoroughly recommend people check out. It's a pretty old TV recording, so the quality isn't great, but it really is worth watching, so don't let that deter you. The name is something like "inside chernobyl's sarcophagus"
Also on Chernobyl, there is a great BBC made factual drama based on the life of Valeri Legarsov - the expert who was brought in to oversee the evacuation and cleanup of the plant, who later commited suicide because of it.
There is another documentary called "Chernobyl Hearts", which I have not yet seen, that apparently won an oscar.
The Blue Planet Is FUCKING AWESOME
#1571 posted by mwh [82.141.250.217] on 2006/08/24 13:17:31
It is about the only TV show I've ever turned down nights in the pub to watch. It originally aired in 2001, I think. If you haven't seen it, you really should.
An Inconvenient Truth
#1572 posted by bambuz [213.169.25.220] on 2006/08/24 17:49:16
Was at a small film festival here.
It's better than I expected. Maybe a bit too much Gore there. But the data is presented pretty well. The radiative forcing a bit so-so. I'm so tired. My mind is disintegrating from all the vitutus.
I'd say it's worth watching definitely!
Vendetta
#1573 posted by . [69.217.62.118] on 2006/08/25 00:11:29
Yep, I'm a fanboy:
http://img178.imageshack.us/img178...
http://img237.imageshack.us/img237...
http://img237.imageshack.us/img237...
#1574 posted by nitin [138.217.3.199] on 2006/08/25 01:58:26
Au revoir les enfants (1987) - Semi autobiographical film from Louis Malle and it makes my top 10 films of all time. I would not change a frame of it.
Concerning the friendship between two boys at a safe haven catholic school in France 1944, before the war was over. One boy, a newcomer, at first threatens the other by matching him intellectually but is then also angered by him getting special treatment from the school staff. Eventually though, they become friends only to regret it later.
Its amazing in its scope, despite what may appear to be at first a fairly narrow focus. It's written and acted so well (I dont think kids have ever been this good) that you never once think you're watching a movie. It also helps that it achieves all that it sets out to do without a hint of hisrionics, melodrama or forced sentimentality.
By the time you finally realise where the title comes from, you already know you're watching a masterpiece.
9.5/10
Nice Mask Phait
#1575 posted by starbuck [81.129.17.57] on 2006/08/25 08:37:18
is that a real one from the movie? Did you buy it? Looks useful for scaring randoms.
Nitin, I like the sound of that film... I'm tempted to write down all your 9/10s and take the list down to the rental store next time I go :)
Starbuck
#1576 posted by . [69.217.62.118] on 2006/08/25 16:20:52
It's an eBay ripoff I paid $30 for which is probably worth no more than $10. It is officially licensed, more yellow than white, but pretty accurate except for the shaping of the eyes (the movie mask has narrower eyes). The wig is a cheapy which I may replace with a more accurate, dark-brown and less poofeh wig. Also thought about airbrushing the mask the proper color, but in the right light it's not so bad.
If I spend any more money on this thing I'm better off buying a replica of this guy's:
http://img170.imageshack.us/img170...
He has the DC replica mask (which is expensive) and is going to make molds from it. That's him with V's graphic novel artist, David Lloyd, by the way.
The Wild Blue Yonder
#1577 posted by bambuz [213.169.3.35] on 2006/08/25 16:21:08
by that Herzog guy.
Cut away 2/3 or half of the material and you got a good short film.
It just doesn't work as a real film. It's basically improvised story, stitched with unedited video footage with a soundtrack. Fun at times anyway. It could have been so much better.
Addition
#1578 posted by bambuz [213.169.3.35] on 2006/08/25 16:22:17
the footage is documentary-like but it's not as beautiful as it could be.
Sigh, it's impossible to talk about this without telling too much.
Phait / Starcbuck
#1579 posted by nitin [138.217.0.130] on 2006/08/25 18:26:43
didnt the one in the movie have a yellowish tinge ?
starbuck,
hehe, you could just go here, the 3.5 - 4 star ones are highly recommended. Imdb links if you want to know what the movie is about too.
http://www.dvdaficionado.com/dvds....
#1580 posted by nitin [138.217.0.130] on 2006/08/25 18:34:32
The Thin Red Line - nice try but apart from some extremely fluid and skilled camerawork, I found it to be bloated, overponderous and ultimately unsuccesful.
I mean when you see the umpteenth symbolic gesture to reiterate the same point over and over again, that destruction is part of nature's cycle, you just wish that Malick would get on with it rather than have his cast spout philosophy 101 lines to explain said symbolism.
But the camerawork, as mentioned above, almost saves the day. Like all great cinematography, it's not just used as style here but pretty much becomes the substance to an extent.
But not enough to sustain a 163 min running time. Also, the never ending cameos became quite distracting too.
5/10
Nitin
#1581 posted by . [69.217.62.118] on 2006/08/25 18:40:39
Somewhat, but not nearly as tinged as this Warner Bros replica.
#1582 posted by nitin [138.217.0.130] on 2006/08/26 18:26:04
Munich - this one really depends on what you go in expecting. From all the reviews at time of release about even-handedness and political arguments being debated, I was expecting something else.
As a standard genre-thriller, it's pretty damn good. Excellently directed and written in that regard. As anything more than that, it is not very convincing. Poorly directed and averagely written and there's a handful of truly misjudged scenes in that regard.
Also, the "accents" are very distracting at first, but once the genre plot starts, you dont really notice them because of the quality of the direction/writing.
Overall, it's quite good, despite me expecting something different.
7.5/10
Munich
#1583 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.217] on 2006/08/26 19:38:16
is a movie I would have to see again to make a
solid assessment.
As a standard genre-thriller, it's pretty damn good. Excellently directed and written in that regard. As anything more than that, it is not very convincing.
That statement I'm a bit intrigued by. I felt the same about parts of the movie as being unconvincing because of the usual Speilburg manipulation (of story elements I mean, not the politics) while other parts felt like the screenwriter got an inside scoop on how that game was played in the seventies.
For instance, the temperment of the French Anarchist in the movie who played the different sides during the cold war like Pagannini played a violin felt dead on perfect. It made you want to sip some wine in the South of France with the old man and listen to stories about the grand old days of the Resistance.
One scene where the Israelis and Palestinian groups are sharing a pad felt too pointed as a moralistic statement, especialy when Fienes and the PLO guy give speaches about their different views of the homeland. This sort of thematic excess is like marking a few pages of a novel with a yellow highlighter and writing in the margins, 'this is the point of it all.'
Quite distracting.
There were flaws of the anachronistic sort. For instance, the explanation given of why the PLO leader was a protected asset of the CIA while in London. In the pre-Church Committee era, self preservation would have been a far more convincing motive to keep out of North America than cash.
But I agree with you, as a genre spy thriller, this was real good stuff. You wont forget that honeypot's fate anytime soon.
Headthump
#1584 posted by nitin [138.217.0.130] on 2006/08/26 20:14:12
yep, agree on the usual spielberg sentimentality creeping in some scenes and detracting (the climax of the 72 flashback intercutting with something bana is doing in particular).
That scene at the pad you refer to is also another one I agree on, it's not a bad scene in itself but, given the genre stuff it's surrounded by, it's out of place.
The end scene between rush and bana is far more effective, if only because of the background it is shot against.
#1585 posted by nitin [138.217.0.182] on 2006/09/01 07:26:50
Casshern (2004) - Well I guess there's definitely a first time for everything. I know I can be a bit harsh with scoring but this deserves nothing better than a big fat 0.
Quite possibly the worst thing I have ever seen, certainly nothing else comes to mind immediately. This is emabrassing in every department.
Oh, if you're still wondering, it's a Japanese film based on a manga about a sort of super warrior created who fights against an army of mutants in the future. Its main "attraction" (and I use that term very very loosely) is that its shot completely against green screen with CGI used for background, much like Sin City and Sky Captain. It's as bad a visual mess as you can get though.
0/10
#1586 posted by nitin [138.217.0.182] on 2006/09/01 18:14:27
Ricky Gervais Live 1 Animals - Disappointing is probably the best way to put it. Sure, there were funny bits and Gervais' delivery made the material better but I thought most of it wasnt all that great, and definitely less clever than his tv stuff. I suppose thats a norm for standup comedy but given that most of it would have been preprepared, I dont count that as an excuse.
There is one 10 min sequence that is particularly good but the rest is probably why I dont like stand up comedu much - cheap jokes, with lots of sewaring to cover up for the lack of funniness.
5.5/10
Ricky Gervais Live 2 Politics - Very similar to theabove, but I would rate it slightly lower as its even less funnier.
5/10
Shoot the Piano Player (1960) - Truffaut's followup to The 400 Blows and he obviously wanted to make something lighter and more Snakes on a Plane.
But this comes across as if he didnt now what he really wanted and is an unsuccesful freeform exercise that is part film noir, part drama and part comedy, and neither part is successful in its execution. The freeform style does result in some great scenes, but overall I found it corny and silly.
4.5/10
Walk the Line - This is an opinion on the movie, I dont care for the music of Johnny cash (although surpisingly that element is not the main focus).
Anyway, I found it to be a fairly pedestrian affair, except that both Phoenix and Witherspoon were very impressive (even more so when they were on the screen together). Any scene without them, however, felt very hollow and average.
Phoenix gets more of the 'big' scenes but he does pull off his character quite well, without really going too histrionic. Witherspoon I found more impressive because she probably had 1-2 'big' scenes but her acting was great even when she wasnt doing these.
Also, good to see a biopic that manages to avoid most the trappings of the genre (although admittedly the start ticks all the boxes, as does the father/son relationship and the episodic nature). At least, they focused on the person, rather than what he did.
6/10
And Just To Keep It Going
#1587 posted by nitin [138.217.0.182] on 2006/09/02 01:14:46
The Girl on the Bridge (1998) - well, this is a bad movie. And it tries so hard, that it's laughably bad in some scenes. Patrice Leconte's hugely successful french movie is set in a bizarre fantasy world passing off as real life and the plot concerns a girl saved from jumping off a bridge by a knife thrower who offers her an alternative to jumping : become his assistant, and therefore get a bit of a kick out of life before it may or may not end at the end of one of his knives.
Shot in black and white, presumably to give it that otherworld feel I was talking about before (although this could have been achieved via colour, so I dont see the point since there is no other reason to do the black and white stuff here). It does have another great performance from Daniel Auteiul who somehow manages to play a very difficult character quite well, but I found Vanessa Paradis' character quite annoying.
And the script is embarassing really, barring one or two scenes.
4/10
The African queen (1951) - Bogart's a gun in my eyes and John huston has made some great films, but this was absolutely terrible. I have still yet to understand why Katherine Hepburn was held in such high regard because once again I found her performance to be quite phony and unconvincing.
The script is not very good, and Bogart is the only reason to keep watching. He does well with what he's given, but even he has some cringeworthy scenes that he cannot rescue.
3.5/10
Elevator to the Gallows (1959) - This was Louis Malle's first movie, and whilst it doesnt make my top 10 like Au Revoir Les Enfants, it's still a great film.
Terrific noir thriller about a couple who plan a crime that we see, but they dont, fall apart piece by piece. It unfurls its details expertly and then it all comes together so deftly that it's hard not to be impressed with the script and the confident, assured direction. Jeanne Moreau is great as one half of the couple too. Miles davis' jazz score also works well, and it's shot very nicely.
8.5/10
Same Here
#1588 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.176] on 2006/09/02 04:19:26
I have still yet to understand why Katherine Hepburn was held in such high regard because once again I found her performance to be quite phony and unconvincing.
She represented a 'strong-willed, independent woman' at the very time (post-war) that feminism was becoming ascendent, so her lack of acting abilaty was overlooked and that distracting speach impedement she possessed that some people would call an accent was somehow tolerated. Gawd, that Ma&Pa Kettle metalic hiss of a voice hurts my ears just thinking about it even though I haven't seen a film she was in in over a decade.
Headthump
#1589 posted by nitin [138.217.0.182] on 2006/09/02 04:53:30
I know it doesnt mean much but 14 oscar noms ?
So someone obviously thought she had some acting ability. Some of it was there in philadelphia story but I cant say I've really seen it.
You Are Right,
#1590 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.201] on 2006/09/02 05:05:16
I know it doesnt mean much but 14 oscar noms ?
It doesn't mean much.
Rest Of That Got Cut Of In A Cut'n'paste
#1591 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.201] on 2006/09/02 05:16:53
One of those movie perfromances she was nominated
for was in the African Queen which you too would
agree was not as good as its reputation. I too agree that the only entertainment value it had was in Bogart's salty performance.
Time tends to weed out of the mix those who were overrated in their time due to social trends that have since waned. Hepburn is a prime candidate.
Headthump
#1592 posted by nitin [138.217.0.182] on 2006/09/02 21:40:11
what I was getting at was that she couldnt even put in a good performance. By that I mean that people like Bogart, Cary grant etc werent the greatest of actors but they were definitely able to put in a good performance. Hepburn didnt even achieve that in the movies I've seen her in (closest was Philadelphia Stoy like I sad).
The Inside Man - intelligent, well made movie that, apart from a few missteps, is a nice meld between a genre caper film and a Spike Lee film. Denzel Washington is good in an extension of his role from Devil in a Blue Dress and Clive Owen is well cast as the mastermind bank robber.
It's well scripted with occasionally some great dialogue (especially when referencing movies from the 70's), and the overall plot is fairly reasonable (although there's some plot holes but they arent major enough to detract too much). I thought the final act was a bit rushed and clumsily handled, but apart from that it's solid piece of work that's well made (nice use of the strobing camera too by Lee).
One thing that did stand out was the score, works in some places but is very badly matched in others I felt. Also, was a bit surprised to see Lee using a Bollywood song to open and close the movie. But, at least he picked one of the best tracks in recent Bollywood history (although it was remixed)
7.5/10
Okay,
#1593 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.214] on 2006/09/02 22:50:57
I might be letting my strong dislike of the person get in the way of our communication. But in this case, it is a person who never really gets into the character of a script from several movies I have seen her in (I haven't seen Philadelphia Story), it is always Katherine Hepburn being Katherine Hepburn barely bothering to interpert her lines. Contrast to most actresses who are more stars than actresses, from Audrey to Julia Roberts; they do assume characters and don't hender the narrative by their very presence. At least it is a rare occasion when they do, and when they do so they don't get praised for it.
I guess, when you made a similar point in the review of African Queen, it hit an old nerve. ;)
BTW, Inside Man is my favorite flick so far this year. Clive Owen is the man to watch out for.
Oh, And The Scene
#1594 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.214] on 2006/09/02 22:55:37
with him and the kid in the vault playing the video game is pure gold. A rare indulgent kind of scene that doesn't advance the plotline, but does much to reveal the nature of Owen's character.
#1595 posted by nitin [138.217.0.182] on 2006/09/03 02:28:38
yeah owen should be bigger than he is, has talent, looks and charisma.
#1596 posted by nitin [138.217.0.182] on 2006/09/04 02:34:57
Proof - Not the recent movie with Gwyneth playing some mathematician, but the 1992 Aussie film with Hugo Weaving and Russell Crowe. Weaving plays a blind man who doesnt trust people describing how things appear, and takes photos as 'proof' of what's there. He becomes friends with Crowe and trusts the latter enough to describe his photos to him, thereby gaining a view of the world that is real according to his proof.
Nice premise, and it starts off great, but as is the problem with most aussie films, it knows where it wants to get to, it just doesnt know how to get there. So we get a less impressive middle act and an unconvincing final act. Weaving and Crwe are both very good in their roles, and its nicely directed but the script could have used more polishing.
6.5/10
There's Something About Mary - I remember seeing this at the cinema when it came out, so that was about year 12. I also remember finding it hilarous at the time and havent seen it since.
Anyway, I thought I'd revisit it to see if I still like it given how much my taste has changed. And while it's not as hilarious as I found it back then, it's still pretty good. Nothing matches the initial twenty minutes I dont think, but it's still an easy watch for the whole length. There's still a bit of Ben Still overkill, but not as muh some of his recent stuff thankfully.
Matt Dillon really works for me here. Actually, most the cast is fairly decent.
7/10
#1597 posted by nitin [138.217.0.190] on 2006/09/08 22:38:22
Dangerous Liasions (1987) - fairly good, but nothing great. What carries it is two excellent performances from Glenn Close and John Malkovich. Close is great as the Marquise, icy and restrained and changing moods readily. Malkovich's performance is a bit self-conscious but he delivers his dialogue fantastically. It also helps that he has some great lines to deliver.
However, the self consciousness in his performance makes the final act a bit unconvincing. The script is partly to blame for that but so is Malkovich. Also, I thought the supporting actors were not very good, although admittedly they had limited material to work with. Both uma Thurman and Michelle Pfeiffer came across as stiff and uncomfortable in their roles.
7/10
Open Your Eyes (1997) - Vanilla Sky was a terrible film, but the original version by Amelio Amenabar is a first rate drama/thriller. I cant recall Vanilla Sky well enough to remember whethr it was indeed a shot for shot remake but I do remember enough to see that it kept most of the original intact. But, it all works so much better here. And its success can be put to the following factors I think :
- Amenabar doesnt resort to stupidly insulting exposition in the final scene
- Tom Cruise was horribly miscast
- Penelope Cruz is more comfortable in her native language and can actually put in a performance
- Moving the movie to new York killed the mood and atmosphere preset in the original
- Vanilla Sky had an awful soundtrack
- Most importantly, Vanilla Sky had really bad dialogue in key scenes, which wasnt present in this version ("I'm blowing your mind, arent I" comes immediately to mind).
I still think the occasional scene doesnt fit well and some of the scenes included simply for symbolism's sake were distracting, but overall this is very good.
7.5/10
Lost Highway (1997) - The first thing that comes to mind is how much it does resemble Mulholland Drive. Same patented lucid noir style, virtually the same general plot (although different structure), and similar scenes of self indulgence.
With that much in common, you have to compare and I would say that Mulholland Drive is the better film because although this is a bit more focused and probably just as comprehensible (in fact I would say that although this leaves a little more to piece together for the viewer, its esier to follow because of the struture), the buildup in Mulholland Drive was more intriguing than the buildup in this one. And, generally, Lynch films are all about the buildup to me, the endings are usually unimportant.
Its also well directed, Lynch again making great use of sound and music to create a foreboding atmosphere, but its also quite self indulgent in a few scenes. If some of these scenes had been trimmed, I think it would have been better. I also didnt care for the soundtrack (not the original score but where music from bands was used), it just didnt fit well with what was on screen.
Worth a watch, but I think he repeated it more successfully with Mulholland Drive.
6.5/10
Elizabeth - horribly paced, badly written and poorly directed. Acting is above average but all involved have been better. I found it to be a tedious mess.
Also, looked a little cramped in 1:85:1, might hav been better served in 2:35:1.
3.5/10
You, Me & Nitin
#1598 posted by . [69.217.62.118] on 2006/09/08 22:58:28
Y'know, we are like polar opposites. I love Vanilla Sky, and I actually like most of the soundtrack. I have to see the original, though.
A Bold Statement Indeed!
#1599 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.52] on 2006/09/09 00:14:17
My interest is peaked as you've just stated in a single post that Lynch and Crowe both who are known for their individual ear for music made lousy choices in these movies under review.
I'm not saying you are wrong, because Vanilla Sky was a terrible movie that lacked in everything (pacing, plot, continuity, actors that meshed) so I don't remember the soundtrack at all, and I have never seen Lost Highway sober to really judge it, but I do recall it has a really good Bowie tune on it.
It also has Rammstein on the soundtrack, a group that only reinforces my belief that only American and British bands can play metal without sounding like silly cheesepuffs.
Of the two movies, Lost Highway is the only one I'm likely to see again, so I was wondering about the particular scenes you found the music a distraction instead of adding to the ambiance.
Oh, And Sorry, Phait
#1600 posted by HeadThump [65.141.73.52] on 2006/09/09 00:28:19
I shot a favorite movie of yours
down, but I just didn't buy into it on any level :(
Phait/headthump
#1601 posted by nitin [138.217.0.190] on 2006/09/09 00:34:09
phait, well at least that might make it easier for both of us to know what stuff to avoid :)
headthump,
I'm not saying the tunes are bad, just that they really didnt fit with what was on screen I thought. NIN's also in there but also used in a way I found distracting.
Anyway, scenes in particular were anything involving Bill Pullman working out a bit of the mystery towards the end and also second half scenes when he attacks people.
Headthump:
#1602 posted by bear [80.217.113.37] on 2006/09/09 04:52:24
I think you forgot the swedes and some others! (or at least I'd like to think so)
Oh And...
#1603 posted by bear [80.217.113.37] on 2006/09/09 04:53:50
..even if there's a bunch of good metal from the US it's a land with a very high cheesepuff ratio in my book.
I Forgot The Aussies
#1604 posted by HeadThump [65.140.59.89] on 2006/09/09 07:39:33
good metal bands come out of there, even if you exclude that band of Scots for being expats instead of natives, they give good metal.
As for the Swedes -- well, I tried some tunes from previous recommendations on the Music forum, and those bands sound like incarnations of Spinal Tap.
The cheese puff ratio in the US lowers significantly when you take the eighties pop hairband thing out of the mix.
Music is very competitive here. Every scene has bands of extreme musical abilaty, equal to the likes of Tool or Living color in muscicianship, but they don't get any airplay.
I've been to shows in Boston/New York/DC/Chapel Hill/Athens Ga./Miami/
Nashville/New Orleans and Austin Texas checking out the metal/rock scenes -- if Azaghal is among the best bands coming off the Continent -- bless your heart for trying, but it is not in the same league.
#1605 posted by nitin [138.217.0.190] on 2006/09/10 07:21:45
Bob le Flambeur (1955) - One of Jean Pierre Melville's early films, and considered to be one of his best, but I couldnt really see why. It's technically half a Melville film really, with a very un-Melville first half that is quite leisurely and meandering. The second half is much more in line with what he normally does, and is very tight and precise. Worth a watch just for that.
I believe this was remade as The Good Thief in 2002 with Nick Nolte playing the title character. I havent seen that version but there's definitely things that could be improved upon.
6.5/10
In a Lonely Place (1950) - I have absolutely no idea why this isnt more well known, not only does it contain Bogart's best acting (although he's arguably given better performances) but it's also made by Nicholas Ray, who is generally only ever associated with Rebel Without a cause.
Anyway, this is a great film with Bogart playing a self-destructive screenwriter and Gloria Grahame matching him very well as a neighbour/muse.
It's a also a fine example to demonstrate that film noir was not just a genre for crime films or detective movies. This is pure film noir, but is primarily a drama interested in its two main characters.
Excellently directed, great dialogue, there's hardly any histrionics, and it follows though to the only ending that should have happened.
Minor nitpicks would be a bit of dodgy acting from Grahame in a few scenes, and a forgettable score but apart from that, it's great.
8.5/10
#1606 posted by nitin [138.217.3.150] on 2006/09/15 22:29:07
Lacombe, Lucien (1974) - Louis Malle's terrific movie about a naive, directionless and borderline sociopathic young french man who, after being bored with his day to day job, attempts to join the French Resistance but upon rejection, inadvertently joins the Gestapo.
Through the character of Lucien, Malle manages to impressively blur the distinction between the hatred that fuelled some to collaborate with the Nazis and the passion that drove others to resist them. Its a bit overlong and the narrative does seem to get lost 2/3 of the way in, but it is still an excellently acted and directed movie.
8/10
Wonder Boys - The script tries a bit too hard in quite a few places and the ending is also a bit tacky, but in between there's some real high points. And it is also very funny.
Tobey Maguire overdoes his role, but Michael Douglas is quite good as the cynical writer who doesnt know how to follow up his mega-succesful last novel. Robert Downey Jnr is also great as his editor, trying to rush his next book to completion.
Quirky and entertaining but needed more focus.
7/10
The Name of the Rose (1986) - I didnt have much of an idea about what this was about and was pleasantly surprised. A very good, moody film and whoever cast Sean Connery got it spot on as this is the best he has ever been.
The movie's essentially a murder mystery set in a 14th century Bendectine monastery and Connery plays William of Baskerville, a monk who is "in tune with reason as much as he is with spirit". Its a very dark film, both in terms of subject matter and atmopshere, and the director has gone to much effort to get the ambience right.
The main mystery loses a bit of steam towards the end, as other matters get more focus, but overall this is a very satisfying movie with a good script and quality performances.
7.5/10
When Russell Crowe
#1607 posted by HeadThump [65.145.243.167] on 2006/09/15 23:36:06
accepted his Oscar for Beautiful Mind, he made a point of stating that the man who deserved to be recieving the award did not even get nominated. He meant Michael Douglas for Wonder Boys.
#1608 posted by nitin [138.217.3.150] on 2006/09/18 05:24:08
Alien 3 (30 min extended version) - Finally saw this version, I'd seen the original theatrical version previously and it really was one bad movie.
This is better, but it only pulls the movie up from terrible to above average. Really, adding scenes can only do so much, this needed a major overhaul to be any good, let alonebe comparable to the first two which are great films.
Anyway, the extended cut flows better and is a lot smoother, but now its way too long at 144 min. Its actually fairly good till the 80 min mark, and then it doesnt realy know where to go or how to get there. and given that there's an hour left after that point, that's a lot of time. Pity, because the plot actually had some real potential, too bad the script is such a mess.
David fincher directs too distantly, you never really get involved with the movie despite the excellent production design and the reasonable performances. Its shot in the trademark Fincher oppressive style that is readily evident in Seven and Fight Club. but despite te excellent cinematography, there's no real memorable images nor any memorable set pieces, which were ther in the first two films.
6/10
Le Corbeau 91943) - Excellent little movie from Henri-Georges Clouzot about a small town plagued by a series of poison pen letters. Whilst the main mystery is a bit easy to work out, its fortunately not he main focus of the movie. Clouzot is more interested in portraying a community rife with paranoia and fear and wher people inform on the doings of others in order to hide their own secrets (which, given that this was made in the occupation years, is probably also an attack on the gestapo and other collabarators).
And its filled with some nice imagery, especially the closin shots. Good Stuff.
8/10
Almost Forgot...
#1609 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/09/18 12:56:16
I saw Black Dahlia this weekend. It was terrible! I'd read the book long ago, and liked it, which is probably why I didn't read any reviews that could have warned me. Think about everything that made LA Confidential good, and remove it.
Damn
#1610 posted by nitin [138.217.3.150] on 2006/09/19 02:42:48
I was looking forward to it, as well as hollywoodland. but both have been getti bad reviews.
However...
#1611 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2006/09/19 12:46:36
another movie with Aaron Eckhart that I saw recently was "Thank You For Smoking," and that was highly entertaining. Might be on DVD by now.
Wow
#1612 posted by megaman [217.229.121.182] on 2006/09/19 17:33:49
why do i disagree about alien3 being a bad movie so much. really need to watch this again.
#1613 posted by nitin [138.217.3.150] on 2006/09/23 18:52:07
Raise the Red Lantern (1991) - I'd heard a lot about how great this movie was, but had put off watching it till an acceptable dvd release was out. Finally saw it this weekend off the remastered HK dvd and it is most definitely an absolute masterpiece.
It's a faultless movie, with Gong Li in the role of a lifetime as the fourth bride of a powerful chinese lord in the 1920's. The competition between the wives is tough, as their "master's" attention carries power, privileges and status.
Impeccably shot, outstandingly acted and excellent directed, this is probably the best modern asian film I've seen.
9.5/10
The Black Swan (1942) - At 84 min, it's a breeze to sit through but is ultimately a fairly corny old-fashioned pirate movie. Has charm in parts and looks great, but depsite the quick running time, it's nothing memorable.
5.5/10
Deadwood Season 2 - Finally finished this, took a while because I was trying to cut down my unfinished movie stack and so only saw this intermittently.
Anyway, well below the quality of season 1, which admittedly was hard to live up to given that it was probably the best season of drama television ever, but it's still much better than most shows' peaks.
The scripting, and in particular the dialogue, is not as excelent as season 1. This time around, the integration of swearing into the shakespearean like vernacular is not as well done and the swearing does actually become distracting and draws attention to itself. Also the first 3 episodes are a bit weak.
After that point the show does pick up and hits some of the same highs that it achieved in season 1. Theres a lot more happening this season and whilst its difficult to get a grasp of everything, there's a lot there to hold your attention.
7.5/10
#1614 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/09/24 02:39:36
Wages of Fear (1953) - Henri Georges Clouzot 's brilliant film about four desperate men in a decrepit south american village, who take on the job of transporting a vast amount of nitroglycerine over some rather dangerous territory.
Most movies wish they had a script so good, the first hour is pretty much all buildup but it does a great job in setting the atmosphere and characters. The remaning time is the actual transport, and despite being 60% of the running time, it does not get tedius for any of it.
The acting is strong, the direction even stronger and although it might be predictable in parts today, it is still one heck of a movie.
9/10
#1615 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/09/25 00:54:13
The Last Temptation of Christ (1988) - It has some great scenes, but there are some poor choices by Martin Scorsese that significantly lessen the impact.
The main problem I had with this, and the one that took me right out of the film, was to have everyone maintain their accents. Especially Harvey Keitel. As I mentioned, this took me right out of the film and was completely distracting.
Other problems included an at times brilliant, and at other times completely silly score and some shoddy acting by some of the minor players.
In between all that, there really is some memorable stuff, much more than the entire length of The Passion of the Christ. And whilst Paul Schrader's script is hardly subtle, it is almost always intriguing.
A misfie overall, but an interesting one.
6/10
Diary of a Chambermaid (1964) - Another classy film by Luis Bunuel, this time about a chambermaid's sojourn at a wealthy 1930's french estate, which is inhabited by some rather curious people.
Jeanne Moreau is great once again and the movie starts off fairly lightly before veering off into more dark and surreal territory in the second half. One of Bunuel's more straightforward and accessible movies, but as good as his other more abstract stuff. The ending is a bit abrupt, but otherwise classy stuff.
7.5/10
#1616 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/09/29 18:20:05
Sympathy for Lady Vengeance (2005) - the final movie in Chan Wook Park's vengeance trilogy and coming after Oldboy, it's a bit of a disappointment. It' still a decent movie, just not more than that.
It melds the styles of both Sympathy for Mr Vengeance and Oldboy which works to great effect in some scenes but is not as effective for the most part.
This one is about Lee Gaeum Ja, who has been in prison for 13 yrs for a murder, and upon release obviously goes about extracting vengeance on the real perpretator, whilst the movie provides exposition about her character and past via flashbacks (some clever others not so clever).
There's lots of style and it does head off into unexectedly interesting directions despite the simple premise but there's also a definitely a sense of Park trying to cram way too much into one movie. And some of the segments are a bit too heavy handed.
But there's a nice strain of humour running through the movie, giving it a sense of the surreal and the flashiness of Park's style does cover up some of the narrative mess.
Enjoyable, disappointing and entertaining all at the same time.
7/10
Deadwood.
#1617 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2006/09/30 03:32:25
Personally I thought Deadwood got better with each season, but you're right about the swearing in season 2. I think they may have tried to live up to expectations a little to hard in thar regard. I thought the season 2 finale was one of the greatest moments I've seen on film, in television or cinema. Though admittedly it wouldn't stand up without the character building in episodes previous.
Season 3 addresses some of the problems with swearing [either that or I was just used to it by then] and ups the ante on the convoluted speeches [Farnham and Jane being particularly entertaining as usual]. It's also much more violent and the underlying tension running through the camp is tangible throughout with very few of the moments of respite that season 2 dotted around. I've yet to see the last two episodes, but so far it's stunning.
The greatest thing about Deadwood is that I come away from it thinking in their language, just as I do from Shakespeare. I don't think I could ever give the series enough praise tbh.
Text Fish
#1618 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/09/30 07:00:47
is 3 meant to be the last season ?
its a great show, no doubt about it, I think I was just expecting too much after the near perfect season 1.
yeah, the finale for 2 was great even though it was pretty much an adpated version of the climax of godfather 1.
But al swearengen is quite possibly the most fascinating tv character ever.
#1619 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/09/30 17:52:25
Night Moves (1973) - A fine character study from Arthur Penn parading around as a film noir. It has another solid turn from Gene Hackman in a role not too dissimilar from Harry Caul in The Conversation. He plays obsessive private detective Harry Moseby who suffers from existential dilemmas and doesnt quite know when to quit with a case.
The script is well written but takes on a bit more than it can handle. Whilst the mystery plot and chracter drama is competently written individually, it's not linked together all that well. So each plays out in acts but they never coalesce as a whole and there is a bit of a jar every time the script changes focus.
Still Hackman is excellent and there is some great dilagoue. Its well directed in a low key fashion from Penn too.
7/10
#1620 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/10/02 01:35:15
Brick - Rian Johnson tries a bit too hard while directing and it's a little too self conscious of the genre and films it's trying to emulate, but otherwise this is pretty good. Its an interesting idea, trying to transpose film noir into a high school setting but it succeeds better than Veronica Mars in my opinion.
The main reason for that is because Johnson realises that you cant just transpose the elements of film noir, you also have to create a cynical and seedy world for those elements to be a part of. This he does successfully here, and whilst the actions and language of the characters are not what normal teenagers would engage in, it doesnt seem out of place in the world created.
However, Johnson doesnt seem to have enough confidence in his material and imbues the movie with lots of visual tricks that serve no real purpose and end up detracting rather than adding to the movie. Also, it ticks every box in the noir handbook but it would have been better off leaving some of those boxes unchecked as certain parts seemed very forced.
Joseph Gordon Levitt does very well as the main character trying to track down his girlfriend.
7/10
#1621 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/10/03 03:52:34
The Bride Wore Black (1968) - french movie about a bride whose husband is killed ont heir wedding day and she goes on a vengeful spree to kill all 5 men involved, crossing their name off a list as she kill each one. Sounds a lot like Kill Bill, but general plot aside, this is more Hitchcock than Tarantino's film.
However, its pretty disappointing. Despite bing reasonably directed by Francois Truffaut, reasonably acted by Jeanne Moreau and also featuring a nice score by Bernard Hermann, it just didnt work for me.
5/10
Nitin
#1622 posted by inertia [134.53.176.37] on 2006/10/04 21:34:30
w
t
f
go write real reviews for real sites !
Inertia
#1623 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/10/05 01:41:14
cant be bothered. These shortish ramblings are easy to come up with, I couldnt be arsed doing more than this.
... I Should Go See More Films
#1624 posted by starbuck [129.215.45.146] on 2006/10/05 11:03:30
what I have seen recently though:
Children of Men
Film set in the future where all the women are sterile and the human race is slowly dying out.
Extremely engaging style of shooting to this is quite noticeable, makes the film seem almost first person, and very convincing, especially as it's technically a sci-fi film. If you've heard of this film at all, you'll have heard people praising how realistic it's version of the future is, and I agree. Nothing fancy, it's pretty much the UK as it is now but a bit dirtier and with slightly better computers and cars. Clive Owen is pretty good, but plays it quite subtle. Overall I liked this as it didn't try and force a moral conclusion or message on you, it just told a story, and made it very exciting. Great action scenes too, go watch it.
Severance
You'll only really be able to see this if you're from the UK i think, but don't worry if you're from elsewhere, it's not that good. It's a horror/comedy combo in the vein of the excellent 'Shaun of the Dead', but this goes down the route of trying to be more scary, and fails in the task of being funny. It's about a business team-building trip a group of generic office workers take, going into the woods (in Slovakia maybe?) and killings by ex-military crazies ensue.
It's really let down by Danny Dyer in the lead role. The guy is a total cock, and the film is constantly attempting to make you think he's cool. Fuck, they keep making him pull out random drugs from his jacket to prove what a rebel he is. Wow, you're smoking weed?! Get over it. Everyone else has. Except rappers in the US for some reason. Don't bother seeing this.
Starbuck
#1625 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/10/05 15:18:32
children of men, yeah I heard about that and Cuaron's visual style is very distinct, looking forward to it. But who knows when the hell it will come out here in oz.
#1626 posted by nitin [138.217.1.115] on 2006/10/09 03:40:49
The Long Goodbye (1973) - Some sort of 70's filtered, post modern film noir by Robert Altman which is a parody, homage and an update on the genre at the same time. Elliot Gould plays the Raymond Chandler character Phillip Marlowe in a very laconic, non caring sort of way and complteley different to how the character was played earlier in the The Big Sleep and Murder My Sweet. Altman also updates some ideas, for example he gets rid of the voiceover that is normally a staple of the genre and replaces it with a character trait where Marlowe likes to talk to himself.
It's all reasonably entertaining, especially a cameo from a gangster owed money (which is the type of scene Tarantino is known for now), but the breezy style is a bit too meandering and I'm still unsure about the (presumably) changed ending.
7/10
Unbreakable - Rewatch, I remember hating this at the movies, but decided to give it another go. Anyway, this time around I didnt think it was terrible but its still fairly underwhelming.
Its reasonably well directed by Shymalan but the script is poor. The general plot itself is fine but the pacing is way off and there is too muc preoccupation with the 'twist' ending. The themes and ideas were there to explore if so much emphasis was not placed on the twist, Samuel L Jackson's character coming off th worst in the current script. And some of the scenes were incredibly contrived.
5.5/10
The Rules of the Game (1939) - Rewatch as well, since I saw Gosford Park not too long ago I thought I'd give this another go too, especially considering Gosford Park is virtually a remake.
Originally, I thought this was the better movie, mainly because it didnt have that dodgy second hlf with the too cute self conscious murder mystery. This time around, I would say they're both about the same, I couldnt care less about any of the charactes here and so didnt care one bit about their dilemmas. Its well made, but I just dont see why its one of the greatest films of all times.
6/10
Always Sunset on Third Street (2005) - Very popular Japanese film from last year and its not hard to see why. It's a nostalgic and unashamedly sentimental & melodramatic depiction of post war Tokyo, whent he whol nation was trying to rebuild.
Normally, I dislike overly sentimental stuff but its exceedingly well made and itgenerally doesnt feel too contrived or forced. There's no real plot, it just follows te life of a group of people on a street in Tokyo 1958. Cliche upon cliche is pile on, but piled on well. Worth a watch, even though its all very predictable.
6.5/10
Nitin Goes To The Cinema And Sees
#1627 posted by nitin [138.217.15.150] on 2006/10/13 02:30:20
The Departed - Although a vastly different movie in tone, style and focus, albeit with the same general plot, it is as good as Infernal Affairs. I thought the original was a pretty decent and entertaining film, nothing more, and I think the same of Scorsese's remake.
The original was more focused on its central two characters and the merging of their identities, whereas this gives more screen time to Jack Nicholson's mob boss and is essentially more concerned with the plot and keeps a distance from the Damon and DiCaprio characters.
There's a lot more humour in this one, which is a welcome addition, but its also a little bloated and self indulgent. Acting wise, everyone does well without really being great, Damon being as good as Andy Lau from the original and DiCaprio also doing well but below Tony Leung's performance. Then again, Tony Leung is one of the great current actors in the world, so it's a bit of a harsh comparison.
Scorsese's flamboyant style suits the tone of his version, a complaint I had against the original where the overstylized direction detracted from the more serious tone of the movie.
In the end though, if you like one, you should like the other about the same.
7/10
#1628 posted by nitin [138.217.15.150] on 2006/10/13 17:52:54
Kingdom of Heaven (Director's Cut) - It's a shame that this version is not what will generally be associated with this film, because the theatrical cut was one extremely poor movie. It had horrible pacing and terrible editing that also gave the impression that it was poorly shot. On top of all that, there was absolutely no sense of focus or direction.
This is a massive improvement, taking the movie to almost great territory. It adds 50 min of footage, and none of it appears to be battle scenes. You can work out within the first 10 min that this is a completely different movie with a different sense of rhythm and tone. The pacing is much much better, I honestly cant say I felt the 194 min running time.
The poor editng that plagued the theatrical cut is gone (although I still maintain that the battle scenes are far too quickly cut and not hugely effective), and the visuals this time have breathing room to deliver their impact.
It still falters a bit towards the end because Orlando Bloom is average-above average in his role, and doesnt have the necessary presence to carry off the final act. Apart from that though, the rest of it is very impressive.
8/10
#1629 posted by nitin [138.217.15.150] on 2006/10/14 22:41:03
ok, saw a few this weekend :
Downfall (Der Untergang) - Almost great movie about Hitler's last days in his bunker, when it was only a matter of time before the allies broke through to Berlin.
Bruno Ganz puts in one of the great cinema performances, capturing the normal, meglomaniacal, delusional and monstrous sides of Hitler all at once. The movie has copped some criticism for 'humanising' Hitler, which is rubbish because by showing him as a person, and not just a one dimensional caricature, it makes his actions (and also those of the people close to him) all the more horrifying.
It stops short of greatness because of two things I think. Firstly, Ganz's amazing performance outacts everyone else on screen, making them look a bit second rate. Secondly, the movie and the pacing dont quite work after Hiter's death and it seemed a little directionless after that part.
Still, very good movie and well worth watching.
7.5/10
The Ghost and Mrs Muir (1947) - Corny, if sincere, movie about the relationship between a widow, who moves away to the seashore after her husband's death, and the ghost that haunts the house she moves into.
Gene Tierney and Rex Harrison are adequate as the two characters and its quite well shot but I just found it to be very dated and silly.
However, it does contain one of the great endings, which is really as corny as the rest of the movie, but is nevertheless very effetive.
4/10
Joint Security Area (2000) - The movie that put Chan Wook Park on the map before his trilogy of Vengeance, and its a pretty decent, if heavy handed, film about a shooting on the north/south korean border that gets the tensions running. It then follows the investigation by a neutral country into the matter, and of course, to what really happened.
It has well written characters and is reasonably well acted, but there are scenes which really needed proper english speaking actors. Also, its a little simple in its philosophising and there are a couple of plot points that didnt need to be twists, but on the whole its an entertaining watch.
7/10
The Virgin Spring (1960) - A heavy handed effort from Bergman, but still well made enough to be a good movie. Set in a very authentic looking and feeling 14th century Swedish village, it is, general plot aside, about the dichotomy between paganism and christianity. And Bergman does hammer you with this point, with some blatant (if sometimes clever) symoblism.
What still makes it work is the authenticity mentioned above, and the work by the actors, especially Max von Sydow as a lord, who is clearly more Pagan than christian despite his own best efforts.
7/10
Nitin
#1630 posted by megaman [84.63.34.218] on 2006/10/17 04:11:08
Unbreakable: i love the pacing - it's not an action movie. What's bad about it?
and i think the samuel l jackson characters comes off like it does on purpose - it's so one dimensional because comic characters usually are. It reflects nicely what comic chars are about, having a small, dramatic backstory/history, and a clear intent.
#1631 posted by nitin [138.217.15.150] on 2006/10/17 05:41:54
megaman,
no it's not an action movie, it's a 'realistic' verson of a comic. Bit of a paradox in my opinion, but that's another issue.
To me, the pacing from willis realising his powers to using them to save the family to the final confrontation with jackson's chracter seemed rushed compared to the earlier part of the movie.
True Dat
#1632 posted by megaman [84.63.22.65] on 2006/10/19 07:30:23
but i think it's good - finding out about his powers is much more interesting than using em to me ;)
i hated all other realistic comic movies i've seen so far.
#1633 posted by nitin [138.217.15.150] on 2006/10/19 08:17:59
spiderman 2 and batman begins at the top of the comic book pile for me, for different reasons.
Did you not like Begins as well ?
I'm Not One For Pretentious Movie Reviews, SO...
#1634 posted by . [70.224.193.69] on 2006/10/23 18:10:32
The Weather Man
With Nic Cage. Thought it was a good movie, I enjoyed it's humor even if it's just abrupt and smackdown at it's finest. Cage's character just gets shat upon and while I'm empathetic, I'm also amused. It's a bit of an intertwining comedy/drama look at the rather average life of a not-so-average guy trying to get back his focus and well, not be such a dick anymore. I guess.
What
#1635 posted by inertia [134.53.176.37] on 2006/10/23 20:47:48
is smackdown humor?
Re:
#1636 posted by . [70.224.193.69] on 2006/10/23 23:21:59
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt038468...
Warning : Pretentious Mvoie Reviews
#1637 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/10/26 04:51:10
seen a few lately :
Children of Men - Very good portrait of a future world on the brink of collapse, but not quite willing to cave in just yet. The script is a little flawed with a bit too much character exposition and coincidence, but thankfully leaves out details to certain questions.
Alfonso Cuaron directs the material with great skill and flair though (with only his choice of background music being a bit questionable), using complex long takes which is a nice break from all the quick cutting going on elsewhere.
Clive Owen does well and the movie avoids ramming too much moralising down our throats and is primarily focused on its storytelling.
7.5/10
Ali - rewatch, and its still a disappointment.
The opening 20 min are brilliant but it nosedives stongly after that. The script is credited to five people and it certainly is very messy. Perhaps Mann took on too long a period on Ali's life for a 2 1/2 hr film or perhaps he didnt quite know how to adapt the events so that it would highlight the character, but as it is there is zero flow and its very directionless (after the first 20 min), just bouncing along from major event to major event without ever fully managing to evoke what he was all about.
Will Smith does well with what he's given, for once his personality not owerpowering the role but becoming part of it. Apart from the actual interest of Ali's story, Smith is perhaps the only other reason this works even to the extent that it does. A disappointing one from Mann, which will be more enjoyable the more you know about Ali in general.
6/10
The Hills Have Eyes - Alexandre Aja's High Tension is arguably th best horror/slasher in recent years, till it self implodes via its poor ending. Anyway, it showed Aja had great skill and I was hoping some of the came through in his remake of this movie.
Unfortunately, this is by the numbers Hollywood horror mulch with annoying lead characters who you're more than happy to see die as quickly as possibl, characterless vilains and a glossy look that goes against what its trying to depict. There's plenty of gore, but someone should seriously realise that gore alone does not equate to scary. Aja directs with no skill and this is a verytedious 100 min to sit through.
2/10
The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou - I really liked Rushmore and am a big fan of The Royal Tenenbaums, but this was very very disappointing. Made in the same style, except this one probably stretches it to the extreme and I found it dull, overlong and porly paced. Some nice bits courtesy of Willem Dafoe, but generally not worth watching.
2.5/10
Ray - Very average film about the rise of Ray Charles and his music. Like every other generic biopic, it just simply depicts the events of the time period it is trying to cover without bothering to concentrate on the person in the middle. At least Walk the Line, as flawed as it was, attempted to do that. Jamie FOxx puts in a very good imitation, but its nothing more than an imitation. He never really gets in what Ray is all about, although the script is probably more to blame for that than him.
5/10
Casablanca - rewatch, and I still think this is one of the greatest scripts of all time, especially dialogu wise. I would change one scene, a heesy flashback sequence, and one actor, that is all.
9.5/10
And Some More
#1638 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/10/27 20:09:22
Heaven (2002 - Krystof Kieslowski was due to make another trilogy after the Three Colors trilogy called Heaven, Hell and Purgatory. He only managed to script them partially before dying but two of them, Heaven and Hell, have been made by other european directors.
How much of Kieslowski's screenplay for this one was finished I dont know, but apart from the genral themes, this is far removed from the quality and style of his work. This is a downright tedious, aimless and extremely pretentious film that has nothing to offer apart from some nice cinematography, but even that is not in line with the rest of the movie. It is also extremely inplausible, and borderline silly in its plot.
Cate Blanchett and Giovanni Ribisi try way too hard and are very unconvincing.
2.5/10
Lord of War - Tedious, overbusy, extremely disjointed movie about gun running with Nicolas cage playing Nicolas cage.
It stops working as a drama with something to say after the credits sequence, as an action entertainer it never really takes off, and as a satire it is very hit and miss. And it is far less clever than it thinks it is.
2/10
The Passenger (1975) - And this is completely the opposite. Sparse on plot, but very interested in character, mood and atmosphere.
Michelangelo Anotnioni's film is slightly overlong, pretentious and not entirely convincing but it is never less than interesting. Jack Nicholson puts in a great performance as an alienated, burnt out reporter who is unhappy with his life and who makes a decision early in the film to take on another dead man's identity, a decision that basically hovers over the rest of the movie and his character.
Its very well shot and the landscape pretty much becomes another character in the movie. The soundtrack also contributes to this with no background score, and heavy emphasis on the use of location sound.
It's definitely not for everyone but it's well worth checking out.
7.5/10
Nitin
#1639 posted by megaman [84.63.16.70] on 2006/10/28 08:32:16
not even bothered to watch it. i think ive seen a min or so of it when a friend of mine was skipping through it, and what i saw (some car chase) didn't interest me at all ;)
Megaman
#1640 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/10/28 18:23:32
it's worth checking out (asuming oyu were talking about BB), it's very genre and very hollywood, but very good regardless.
#1641 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/10/29 00:54:55
Xmen 3 - this didnt turn out nearly as bad as I thought it would. It's unfulfilled potential, but I feel the same about the first two films. Thankfully this one doesnt get bogged down in the half baked seriousness that permeated the first two films, and moves with bullet like speed throughout its 99 min.
It is, however, perhaps the one with most unfulfilled potential given that the phoenix storyline was one of the best. Then again, with brett ratner at the helm, it could have turned out much worse.
6/10
Recommendations Please
#1642 posted by Spirit [80.171.163.59] on 2006/10/31 00:38:11
I deeply enjoyed The Maltese Falcon. And now I want more.
Reading through the posts nearby the mention of The Maltese Falcon I spotted Belle de Jour, Out of the Past - Double Indemnity , Petrified Forest, The Triplets Of Bellevue. Anything else I should watch? Thanks!
Spirit
#1643 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/10/31 05:22:21
recommendations if you liked The Maltese Falcon (ignore the ones you found, not all of them are similar genres at all) :
Chinatown
The Big Sleep
Out of the Past
Double Indemnity
The Killers
Night and the City
The Third Man
Touch of Evil
LA Confidential
In a Lonely Place
Le Samourai
although the last four are probably the least similar out of this list.
Nitin
#1644 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.96] on 2006/11/01 00:42:28
Cheers! I knew you would have some goodies for me .:)
#1645 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/04 18:23:37
Fallen Angels - rewatch, and I still dont like it. Perhaps the most schizophrenic of Wong Kar Wai's work, it's an interesting watch but ultimately not all that successful. A loosely structured, arty gangster film mixed with an existential love story, I found it to be an uncomfortable meld of the two. It is, however, an incredibly moody film thanks to a well selected soundtrack and Christopher Doyle's atmoshperic cinematography.
4.5/10
The Sting (1973) - another rewatch, and this one I change my mind on. I didnt like this on initial viewing, cant quite remember why, but this time around I found it to be quite a smooth, suave and entertaining film. It's still not as good as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Newman and Redford were much more terrific in that one, but as far as sheer entertainment goes it's very effective.
The air of lightness does detract from certain parts of the film and there's a couple of major plot holes, but overall very impressive.
7.5/10
Mission Impossible 3 - Every review I read of this was not actually a review of the film but about Tom Cruise. So I wasnt quite sure of what to expect.
It turned out to be an absolutely terrible movie, with some of the most poorly shot action scenes in recent memory. There
is a bridge assault that's not badly staged but everything else is ruined by shoddy camerawork and editing.
And since the movie is basically a string of action scenes stuck together, the failing of its main attraction doesnt leave much else to focus on. Tom Cruise actually acquits himself fairly well, but more screen time needed to be given to other people, espcially Phillip Seymour Hoffman's much more interesting villain.
3/10
The Searchers (1956) - John Ford is one director whose reputation I just do not understand. This is regarded as his masterpiece and is revered by many filmakers, being in Martin Scorsese's top 5 films of all time and its final scene basically imitated by Francis Ford Coppola in the final scene of The Godfather.
There is definitely some undeniably great moments, the cinematography is brilliant and John Wayne is excellent as Ethan Edwards, a lonesome, embittered and racist character who embarks on a 5 year search for his niece who has been kidnapped by a tribe of red indians.
The themes, such as the reason why Ethan keeps on searching for his niece, are dark and work well to an extent, but unfortunately the rest of the cast isnt upto Wayne' standard and John Ford ruins the material by injecting a couple of unnecessary subplots and moments of inane humour that severely detract from the main themes.
4.5/10
Re: The Searchers
#1646 posted by metlslime [69.181.183.245] on 2006/11/06 01:40:52
I feel like i should respond to that one. I like this movie a lot, but I have mixed feelings about the segments where he has returned home to the ranch. The tone and quality of those scenes does not seem to be suited to the rest of the movie, true. However, I think the existence and juxtopisition of a "family life" to Ethan's endless wanderings is one of the central themes. You could argue that racism drives his choices throughout most of the movie, but I think also his restless nature prevents him from enjoying the comforts of home, and drives him towards things like the civil war, and the hunt for Debbie, which are a means rather than an end.
Metl
#1647 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/06 02:47:16
I agree with pretty much all of that, for me it was scenes like the wedding scene towards the end that was representative of both the unnecessary subplots and silly humour that I talked about above.
I take the point that Ethan's wandering nature was meant to be contrasted with family life, but I think the execution was not very good and severely detracted from the rest of it.
I came away from it thinking it was a movie with some great scenes rather than a great movie.
And More
#1648 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/06 22:28:04
The Silence (1963) - An interesting one from Bergman, about two sisters (who hate each other) and a child stopping at an unnamed European city on their way to home (presumably in Sweden).
It lives up to its title in a brilliant first half in which there's probably about 50 lines of dialogue in 50 min. But the terrific cinematography from Sven Nyvkist and the great acting tell you all you need to know.
The second half isnt as successful, with much more dialogue that isnt as half as interesting as the gestures and mood present in the first half.
Still, worth a watch for that great first half.
7/10
The Da Vinci Code - never read the book, so wasnt really sure what to expect. It's decidedly average, as are most of Ron Howard's movies, but it's not terrible.
Howard directs flatly as usual but this has more problems with its script than direction. The whole thing is ceaseless exposition, so much so that there isnt time to do anything else. It tries to build suspense, but hasnt got any time to spare to achieve that.
And I'm not sure how the plot came across in the book, but here I saw the main reveal(s) that come towards the end of the movie about a third of the way in.
Very average.
5/10
Persona (1966) - Another interesting one from Bergman that reminded me a lot of Lost Highway, Mulholland Drive and Fight Club thematically. But in between all that, it is a very talky, typically Bergmanesque movie which again highlights his limited approach, despite different subject matter than usual.
What makes it interesting is 2 fantastic acting perforamnces by Liv Ulmann and Bibi Anderson and more great cinematography from Sven Nyvkist.
7/10
Quai Des Orfevres (1947) - Another good movie from Clouzot, an atmospheric drama/thriller set in post war France. Main plot concerns a murder mystery, but thankfully that is not the main emphasis as it is a bit straightforward in that aspect. Instead, it conecentrates on making interesting characters and detailing the world those characters live in. Also has a couple of great performances to help in that regrd.
7/10
The Magnificent Seven (1960) - It's no Seven Samurai, but even as a standalone film, I found it to be above average at best. Some of the cast lets it down, as does a lack of spark in the script.
5.5/10
Hehe...
#1649 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2006/11/07 19:11:24
...Da Vinci Code, tried to watch it the other night, I fell asleep sometime after what I guess was half way :)
#1650 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/12 23:45:28
Tootsie - Above Average. The look and soundtrack date it pretty badly but its sharply written for the most part and giving free reign to Dustin Hoffman was a good idea. He doesnt always succeed, but hits most times, as do Bill Murray and Teri Garr in their supporting roles. However, its not nearly as successful in the drama elements, which there is a fair bit of. I did like the ending though, that was ingeniously done.
6/10
Renaissance (2006) - french made futuristic noir film with its main selling point being a unique blend of animation and live action. Actors have acted out the roles in real locations but then the whole thing's been manipulated digitally to give every object and character a flat 2d shaded look. Of course, being noir, it's all black and white with lots of shadows and stark contrast areas. Basically, think Sin City but even more comic book like in its visuals, literally looking like a 3d rendered comic book.
The style definitely lends to some impressive imagery, and although its never utilised to its fullest, its reasonably arresting. The movie itself is very pedestrian, and despite a name voice cast (including Daniel Craig and Ian Holm), the voice acting is a bit mediocre. The voices also don’t really match the chracters and that further detracts from an already redundant plotline.
But worth a watch for style.
5/10
Fanny and Alexander (1982) - probably Ingmar Bergman's most accessible movie, despite its length and bizarre supernatural tones. In fact, at times its very un-Bergman like in its examination of an upper class swedish family in the early 19th century, mainly through the eyes of two children (the title characters). Its incredibly disjointed, probably because 2 hrs were cut for the theatrical release but I don think that's an excuse in this case since there was plenty of time to cover the material anyway (the theatrical cut is 3 hrs). There are some brilliant scenes, but due to the way its been cut, some parts feel way too rushed while others seem to go on for too long. I'm tempted to check out the full version, but I think releasing it theatrically in its current form was unacceptable.
And despite the oscar for Sven Nyvkist, I think he's done much better in other bergman films.
6.5/10
Hidden (2006) - Michael Haneke's latest film is extremely pretentious and self consciously arty, but its also very intriguing and very well made. Fuelled by another great performance from Daniel Auteiul, it is slow moving but very effective in its build up of suspense as a family starts receiving strange videotapes of them being under surveillance by someone. That it then ends in such a bizarre, left field and ultimately inconclusive manner might be off putting to some, but its definitely a well orchestrated experience. The almost too clever style employed is a nice touch, depsite being a bit too cute, and the script it is well written for the most part, cleverly diverting you one way when the movie is clearly about something else alltogether.
7.5/10
Renaissance...
#1651 posted by Bal [83.199.7.89] on 2006/11/13 13:26:42
Nitin, just wanted to point out the characters in Renaissance were not live actors, it's 100% rendered 3D (with probably a fair ammount of motion capture of course).
The original voice acting (in french) was also really horrible, was hoping they would fix that up when making an english version...
I agree with your review otherwise, mostly worth it for checking out the style.
Bal
#1652 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/13 13:38:07
really? pretty good mo-cap then. I thought the movement looked quite fluid. Although the complete digital nature does explain how they pulled off certain shots which I assumed were CG, but wasnt sure.
#1653 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/15 02:37:49
The Brothers Grimm - nicely shot, but otherwise it's a trainwreck from start to finish. Quite possibly the worst directed film I've come across. Absolutely terrible.
1.5/10
Da Vinci Code
#1654 posted by bambuz [213.169.26.201] on 2006/11/15 13:56:31
Flatmate rented the video, I watched from 15 minutes or so on, wasn't nearly as bad as I expected. I think the director still had an overall sense on what was happening, the action scenes were mostly believable etc.. I like some small details every now and then. The policemen talked french. The gunshots were not that sound library muffled sound... Some things were ??? like what happened to the main character's wound?
Ian McKellen rocked too, even though he was written as a bit cliche at times but anyway.
Yeah, the main turnpoint was indeed obvious and was even hinted at with stupid HINT HERE dialogue... And some other turn points too were to be seen somewhat before... But I guess those are ok.
All in all, above average. Mostly because the script actually contained a plot and different characters and had some historic cool stuff, and also the direction was fluid.
Haven't Seen The Movie
#1655 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.137] on 2006/11/15 16:46:30
I would be willing to believe it is more carefully factual than the book; I read it to see what all the firestorm was about and I am amazed by what people are willing to believe. The history in the book is polemical, not actual.
A few things that come to mind, in the book an obelisk structure that is now part of a cathedral is described as proof of the existence of a mystery religion inside the early Church because it represents a penis (penises and vaginas are mystically significant in this supposed cult). The actual function of this structure is a sundial used to calculate the return of Passover.
Other things are just illogical. The first century Biblical scriptures are presented as being completely refuted in substance because Gnostic text written centuries later contradict them. Brown's hero is presented as an Empiricist but that just flies out the window with this evidence. It never occurs to him that this text could be invalid or both text are invalid. Don't let a little logic get in the way. That would just take all the fun out of saying, 'Fuck your God!'
Of course you can argue that it is just fiction, but Brown claims everything is accurate in fact in the first page where most authors normally put a disclaimer.
There are people (including in a post here written a few years back) who believe the Da Vinci Code to be nothing less than a revelation.
But enough of that. The movie may be much better. A few are, like The Godfather, for instance.
Casino Royale (2006)
#1656 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2006/11/16 16:36:46
After the travesty of Die Another Day it was inevitable that the franchise would have to be taken in a new direction, but I would never have expected it could be done as well as Casino Royale. The story nolonger plays second fiddle to the gadgets, Bond is nolonger a pantomime action hero and the product placement nolonger dictates the action.
Daniel Craig may not have a jet black mane of hair on his chest, but he looks perfectly comfortable in a dinner jacket AND looks as if he's seriously considering killing you [a licence to kill would be pretty useless otherwise, right?]. Everything from his cold, emotionless blue eyes to the thuggish swagger suggest that an incredibly painful death will become you if you get in his way. Gadgets are a last resort for this Bond.
My only complaint would be that the next film probably won't arrive for at least two years.
Casino Royale
#1657 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/16 23:58:23
actually had a trailer that made me wanting to watch it, very unusual for a trailer these days.
Also, spiderman 3's latest trailer and The Prestige also look impressive.
#1658 posted by nitin [124.191.213.153] on 2006/11/18 17:19:09
High Sierra (1941) - pre-Maltese Falcon Humphrey Bogart film made by Raoul Walsh and its a bit too corny and melodramatic to be effective. Ida Lupino and Bogart stand tall no matter what comes heir way, but the script is a bit too silly at times.
6/10
Huff Season 1 - overall decent show with Hank Azaria playing Craig Huffstodt, a psychiatrist whose life changes after one of his patients kills themselves during a session. Part drama, part comedy and it doesnt quite know which it wants to be and ends up hedging bets each way.
Hits and misses in both areas quite frequently, with the hits being very effective but the misses also missing by quite a margin.
What it does have going for it is layered characters. Most the main characters, even if they first appear to be one dimensional, are well rounded by the end of the season. There are some great performances to help this with Blythe Danner being a standout as Huff's mother and Paget Brewster also doing well as his wife.
Olive Platt makes the most of his role as Huff's best friend/lawyer, his character providing the show with most its highlights and also its lowlights. Azaria is serviceable in the main role.
Scripting varies form very good to mediocre, with the variation occuring too frequently for my liking.
7/10
#1659 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/11/20 00:51:14
Maria Full of Grace (2004) - pretty good movie about the harsh economics of the drug trade, and the economy in general, in Colombia with the title character accepting a job as a drug mule to America. The movie does well to avoid overt moralising or launching an anti drug tirade and simply focuses on its chracters and their plight.
The acting is very good and there are some truly horrible scenes, but the script suffers from underwritten supporting chracters. The focus on the title character leaves a lot of the rest of the cast underdeveloped, and themovie would have benefited if they were fleshed out a bit more rather than just be there to help the story along.
7/10
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) - hmm, it definitely gets the look right. Unlike the overglossy look that most modern horror films have, Tobe Hooper really captures the ugliness that is needed to tell a story like this. The visuals have a raw, nihilistic and bleak feel which is just not there in current horror films.
However, apart from that aspect, I found it to have most of the same problems that most of today's horror films have. The only time it almost works is in the last 10 min, but that's too far in.
4/10
HeadThump
#1660 posted by Vigil [88.112.241.76] on 2006/11/20 05:20:52
If you didn't enjoy the book, you probably won't enjoy the movie. However, I'd recommend you read Holy Blood, Holy Grail, on which Da Vinci Code is based. Much more in-depth, and more entertaining, even if the writing style is excruciatingly boring.
I Do Enjoy
#1661 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.101] on 2006/11/20 07:41:31
hidden history/conspiracy works both fiction and non fiction. Ecco's Focault's Pendulum and Philip Dick's last trilogy of novels explored some of the same areas as the Da Vinci Code and they are among my favorite novels. I even liked Angels & Demons as a thriller though the culprit is pretty easy to guess within the first paragraph he is introduced.
I thought with DC, Dan Brown was being deceptive; it is too new age-y and feminist for my blood.
I'll give HB,HG a look next time I'm at the local Barnes&Nobels. I go at least once a month to read Computer Arts from cover to cover('cause I'm cheap ;)).
Indeed...
#1662 posted by distrans [131.172.4.44] on 2006/11/21 21:06:29
...I recommend that everyone push their way through Foucault's Pendulum at some stage. Hard work in places, but well worth it.
Eco Rocks
#1663 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/11/22 00:49:36
and comparing him to dan brown is like comparing grahame greene to john grisham.
anyway, two more :
The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada (2006) - Tommy Lee Jones directs and stars in this surrealy bizarre western that is suposedly inspired by Sam Peckinpah's surrealy bizarre movie Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia. He plays Pete Prker, best riend to an illegan mexican immigrant who gets killed by a border patrolman, played very well by Barry Pepper. Taking the matter into his own hands, Pete takes Pepper's character and the body of Melquiades Estrada on a strange little journey back to Estrada's hometown in Mexico, with the aim of burying him in his home.
There's a few too many conicidences in the script, but otherwise it's pretty well written and goes in really unexpected directions. Tommy Lee Jones is nice and understated behind the camera, everyhting is thee to see, but its not always highlighted which is a good thing.
7.5/10
The Prestige - If you're going to go down the style over substance path this is the way to do it.
Christopher Nolan's classy tale of two rival magicians almost revels in its own structure and is backed up by some very good acting, even if it only scratches the surface in terms of its themes. The main twist is a bit too easy to spot too early into the movie, but its so well made and the writing is so exceptional in its attention to the little details, that it doesnt really matter.
Whilst is very good as is, I think a greater film could have been made if it wasnt so concerned with having twists but instead increased the focus on the nature of its main characters and its overriding theme of duality. Still, for the way he's chosen to gowith, Nolan does extremely well in the direction department and its highly recommended.
7.5/10
Just To Be Clear,
#1664 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.136] on 2006/11/22 07:17:26
and I thought my caveats like 'as a thriller' , and the criticism I gave of The Da Vinci Code were enough to make it clear, I was in no way stating Dan Brown is in Umberto Ecco's league.
Bump
#1665 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.55] on 2006/11/24 10:57:55
so Nitin doesn't have to sift through the index to find the thread later this week end
Oh, This Looks Interesting
#1666 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.55] on 2006/11/24 11:01:11
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt041644...
The trailer is a visual feast, like El Greco applied to the talkies.
Headthump
#1667 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/11/24 16:04:29
:)
yeah 300 could be either really reaaly bad or really really good
#1668 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/11/27 01:34:32
Arrested Development Season 3 - still funnier than most things on tv, but season 3 is a level below season 2 and well below the standard of season 1. It's a lot more patchy and goes for a lot more cheap jokes, not all of which work, but some of the middle episodes in the series come together really well. Pity it was cancelled, but 3 quality series is still 50 epidsodes of classy comedy.
7.5/10
Dressed to Kill (1980) - you can call it a ripoff or you can call it a homage, but Brian de Palma's doppelganger imitation of Psycho, right down to the narrative structure, is nowhere near the same league.
There are some really well directed set pieces, but that's offset by some terrible acting (especially by Nancy Allen) and some even worse dialogue. De Palma utilises his favorite trick (which I dont want to mention) a bit too many times, lessening any impact the ending actually had. This is very very good during its wordless sequences where the camera and music are handled amazingly well, but gets derailed almost everytime certain characters open their mouth.
5.5/10
The Legend of Zorro - very very average in all areas. Generic plot, generic characters, very generic action scenes, and far too overlong for what it is.
4/10
Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia (1971) - Sam Peckinpah's bleak, surreal and bizarre film about a low life mexican who has to obtain the head of a man named Alfredo Garcia to collect a bounty that could lead him and his prostitute lover to a better life.
Its basically a road movie of sorts, mixed with a western and its very nihilistic in its view of the world and the human condition. I found it to have a few pacing problems, with too much time being spent early on in establishing the main character and not enough time spent on the second half when he starts to mentally deteriorate after a few nasty incidents.
Warren Oates puts in a commanding performance as the main character Bennie and Peckinpah is a bit more restrained than usual in his direction, which works in some scenes but not in others which lack a bit of energy.
7/10
Arrested Development
#1669 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.212] on 2006/11/27 09:10:44
Season 3 -- There is a scene when a certain exceptional actress wearing funny hats in the show is revealed to be an imbecile; the reaction
of the law enforcement types listening in caused me to explode with laughter. The season is uneven at best but there are some real comic moments of genius in the mix.
Headthump
#1670 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/11/27 13:59:07
agreed.
That was a classic moment.
Casino Royale
#1671 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2006/12/03 08:14:13
This is the second Bond movie that I've seen--the other was one with Sean Connery. I wasn't disappointed with this one, although it was a bit predictable in places.
Daniel Craig seemed to be a good Bond. The torture scene everyone keeps talking about somehow didn't get to me, though.
Recommended.
#1672 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/03 17:54:25
Entourage Season 2 - more of the same, although it's slightly better than season 1 because there's a few more interesting events occurring. That means its an easy watch which is reasonably entertaining but because of the extremely one dimesnional characters and the shallower than a 5 day old rain puddle shallowness, it is also instantly forgettable. Jeremy Piven cotinues to provide the only interesting character in the show, hollywood agent Ari Gold.
7/10
Miami Vice - A miscalculated misfire from Michael Mann. Its infused with plenty of style and Dion Beebes' cinematography is pretty good, if not upto his previous work with Mann on Collateral. However, Mann imbues the movie with more gravitas than the material can handle, and the whole thing pretty much collapses under its own weight.
The script is poor and the pacing is all over the place, with early scenes being far too chaotic and the middle section being far too limp. Jamie Foxx does well individually but has zero spark with Colin Farell while Gong Li does reasonably well with a poorly written role.
Even the action scenes, which to be fair are still far better than the tripe most movies try and pass off as action scenes, are not as good as in Mann's other films.
5.5/10
Silent Hill - Christophe Gans's first movie, Brotherhood of the Wolf, was a glorious mess but this one is just an absolute mess.
Based on the popular horror game franchise, the production design is excellent and the visuals are impressive, if a little too CGI, with some truly grotesque and hellish scenery. But as far as a sense of dread or suspense goes, they are nonexistent. It might be flashy but it is definitely not scary.
It is also scripted like a video game, characters literally going from one room or level to another whilst avoiding obstacles and monsters, which when given the 2 hour + runtime becomes extremely tedious.
On a side note, quite a few reviews upon release complained about it being almost incomprehensible. I didnt find it to be like that, in fact by the time it's over it makes as much as sense as most David Lynch films.
Btw
#1673 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/03 17:54:59
silent hill would be 3/10
Nitin...
#1674 posted by Bal [81.249.102.40] on 2006/12/03 23:25:47
Brotherhood of the Wolf wasn't Gans' first movie, he also did Crying Freeman and a segment from that Necronomicon thingy.
Bal
#1675 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/04 05:14:15
really? I always thought Brotherhood was his first, what's crying freeman about ?
Crying Freeman
#1676 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2006/12/04 06:16:08
Very good film !
Nitin
#1677 posted by Bal [217.128.161.19] on 2006/12/04 06:20:29
I'm surprised you haven't heard of it, it's quite popular (based off a very successful manga), more so than Brotherhood (as that one was produced in France).
It's also with Mark Dacascos, he plays an assassin working for some powerful yakuza gang, but love makes him reconsider his current job (yeah, typical, heh =). It's an ok movie.
Bal
#1678 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/04 13:18:22
so it's not french then ?
Nitin
#1679 posted by Bal [87.91.229.58] on 2006/12/05 01:14:33
It's a USA/France/Japan co-production, but most of it takes place in the US and a bit in Japan if I remember correctly.
#1680 posted by Trinca [85.88.130.59] on 2006/12/05 01:40:21
saw this one with my kid in cinema last weekend :)
http://www.flushedaway.com/flash/i...
great movie!!!
P.S--> for those that have kids go see is a great one ;)
#1681 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/06 05:33:10
Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) - Zhang Yimou's latest falls well short of the greatness of his earlier works but is still quite a decent film.
In this tale of a Japanese man who attempts to reconnect with his son by going to China and filming a particular masked opera, the plotting is a bit contrived and the whole thing too melodramatic, but the direction is strong and the acting even stronger.
But it looks like this was only a temporary return for Yimou to his ealrier type of films, as his next one looks very similar to Hero and House of Flying Daggers.
7/10
The Big Heat (1953) - Above average film noir from Fritz Lang which is a bit too sentimental in parts to really work as a noir and also has a not so convincing Glenn Ford in the lead role as Detective Bannion who tries to singlehandedly battle beauracracy, corruption and crime at the same time. Its derivative stuff, but it works to an extent due to tight direction and good performances from supporting players, especially Lee Marvin and Gloria Grahame.
6.5/10
#1682 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/08 17:18:00
The Conformist (1970) - Along with Raise the Red Lantern, this was another movie that I'd been wanting to see for years. And like Raise the Red Lantern, it was well worth the wait.
Bernardo Bertolucci's film is a headspinning experience thanks to the dizzying visuals and the even more dizzying narrative structure. It's not hard to see why Scorsese and Coppola adore this movie about a member of Mussolini's secret police who becomes a fascist not out of greed nor out of fanaticism, but out of the desire to become 'normal'.
The visuals by Vittorio Storare are on par with his work on Apocalypse Now, the camerawork is so fluid it will make your average cinematogrpaher cry. The music is not on the same level but is still very memorable and fits the action on screen like a glove. And beneath all the style, there is a lot of substance, but due to the complex narrative and the speed at which it moves along, it's quite difficult to take it all in.
That's basically my only complaint, along with some dodgy dubbing, I would have preferred a slightly slower pace so that certain events were given more time to register an impact.
8/10
#1683 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/08 23:07:08
Fallen Idol (1948) - It's not quite in the same league as that other more famous collabration between Graham Greene and Carol Reed, The Third Man, but its still a great film. Apart form a dodgy and overly bombastic score and the pulling of a punch at the end, there is not much wrong with this.
The acting's great, especially from the child actor, the direction' tight and the script's almost perfect in his thriller that's made not only from a child's perspective but also within a child's world.
8/10
Slightly OT
#1684 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.165] on 2006/12/08 23:40:10
but your comment,
Apart form a dodgy and overly bombastic score
reminded me of Ladyhawk, a decent fantasy flick from the 80's that is close to unwatcheable now because of a terrible score. 80's synth hasn't aged well.
Hehe
#1685 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/09 00:37:37
except in scarface
#1686 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/09 04:24:28
Pirates of the Caribeann 2 - Dead Man's Chest
Bigger, louder and extremely duller. I cant believe it took this long to come with something as tragic as this.
4/10
I Just Loved My Ass Off
#1687 posted by megaman [84.63.26.160] on 2006/12/10 08:49:39
the product placement nolonger dictates the action.
candlelight dinner and her fucking phone beeps, she reads the sms and... - how BOND is that? HELLO SONY FUCKING BULLSHIT MARKETING. also, ford paid 15mio pound for having all their stuff appear in the movie.
I Love Your Ass Too.
#1688 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2006/12/10 09:16:57
And I'd hardly describe the above examples of product placement to be integral or detrimental to the action/plot. Product placement isn't a bad thing in itself until the businesses responsible start demanding certain things from the film, as they did in Die Another Day [i.e. the Ferarri's that fell out of the plane weren't allowed to be seen to be 'damaged' which lead to the ridiculous shot of them poking out of a swamp without a dent or scratch in sight].
Most film/tv productions get sent various items by companies like Sony, AOL etc. which they're free to use as props or background dressing, because both the companies and the film benefit from it. Looking round my surroundings right now I can see Sony, Puma, Xerox, Antec, Specsaver, Panasonic, BIC, Microsoft, Logitec and Duracell products to name a few so I'm not sure why some people get so offended when they see a product in a [contemporary-set] film. Of course you're going to notice the brand of a phone when the camera is positioned in such a fashion that you can read the phone but my point was that in Casino Royale, the product placement is inoffensive.
Don't Worry
#1689 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.203] on 2006/12/10 13:29:31
how BOND is that? HELLO SONY FUCKING BULLSHIT MARKETING. also, ford paid 15mio pound for having all their stuff appear in the movie.
The next Bond is set to be funded by sushine, rainbows and moonbeams without any hint of nasty Capitalism tainting Britian's onliest, I mean hardest, working civil servant on his exploits.
Yeap, it is all being funded by BBC so you might want to bring a pillow and blanket with you to snooze during that game of baccarat being played in real time.
#1690 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/11 23:05:21
Ninotchka (1939)- Starts off well enough and manages to survive Greta Garbo's introduction, but eventually her montonous delivery and extremely one note performance derail the whole thing and the script gets cheesier the longer the movie runs.
5/10
Superman Returns - Kate Bosworth is terrible as Lois Lane, Kevin Spacey is far too camp as Lex Luthor, Brandon Routh is passable as Superman and the script has as many bad bits as it has good bits, but yet it almost works.
Full credit to Bryan Singer for turning lacklustre material and talent into a reasonably entertaining movie.
7/10
Err
#1691 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/11 23:22:23
that should read "Kevin Spacey is far too serious as Lex Luthor..."
Nitin
#1692 posted by gone [193.124.10.152] on 2006/12/12 04:28:26
Bah now I totaly dont love you for dissing Silent Hill. And Lynch too.
...oh btw nitin's Silent Hill review would be 3/10
Wow
#1693 posted by starbuck [129.215.25.118] on 2006/12/12 12:48:29
Superman Returns, 7/10? That's a pretty generous score, but then again it seems like I'm the only one who really wasn't impressed at all by this. I don't want to go off on a big rant because it wasn't that awful, it was just completely... weak.
I guess Brandon didn't have much to work with but he seems like a bit of a plank. Spacey was completely underwhelming, and Lois Lane, who gives a shit? Why would you even bother with that girl. I mean Superman could rape her so fast she wouldn't even notice anyway.
I usually like the big budget action / superhero things, but they're usually more fun I guess. Or I'm old.
Heh
#1694 posted by necros [74.111.254.57] on 2006/12/12 13:06:07
i'd have said silent hill was better than superman, but then, i was never a fan of superman, and silent hill has cool monstrous things.
Re: Superman.
#1695 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2006/12/12 20:44:21
I just found it completely impossible to engage with this film. Infact I'd say it made me feel exactly the same as V for Vendetta, which also inexplicably failed to interest me. I can't say why for either film, but they both left me feeling "well, I don't want my money back or anything, but I'll actively avoid watching it again."
Also
#1696 posted by necros [74.111.254.57] on 2006/12/12 22:19:03
see 'mallrats' for why lois can't have superman's baby. >_<
Speedy / Starbuck / Text Fish / Necros
#1697 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/13 00:35:08
speedy,
I wasnt bagging Lynch, I quite like his stuff. I was just trying to make the point that Silent Hill wasnt as incomprehensible as some people were claiming it to be. Anyway, I agree it looked cool and had cool monsters but I found it very dull. It wasnt scary and it wasnt much of a movie, well to me anyway.
starbuck,
Agreed that all three leads were average to terrible, and I can totally see why you called it 'weak', but I dunno in the end I enjoyed it.
text_fish,
I hated v for vendetta, but like I said in repsonse to starbuck, I ended up enjoying this despite lots of flaws
necros,
hehe, I thought of that scene in Mallrats as soon as that was revealed :)
I Usually,
#1698 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.122] on 2006/12/13 09:43:42
I hated v for vendetta, but like I said in repsonse to starbuck, I ended up enjoying this despite lots of flaws
Assess whether I like a movie or not based upon how attractive I find the lead actress even if the movie is cramming a message that is (in part in V, but not entirely) bilge. So V for Vendetta and Funny Girl two thumbs way up, Shakespeare in Love, boooooo!
(kidding Of Course)
#1699 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.122] on 2006/12/13 09:49:01
I couldn't enjoy a musical no matter who starred ;)
Primer
#1700 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2006/12/13 18:51:17
Good movie--I think. I haven't been that confused since I watched Donnie Darko. I rewatched the end a couple times and that helped.
Rpg
#1701 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/13 23:45:50
the commentary track clears a bit up, especially if you use it over the last 15 min.
Its a bit too overcomplicated for the sake of being confusing but yeah at least someone thought through the time travel thing a bit :)
Yeah...
#1702 posted by metlslime [69.181.0.73] on 2006/12/13 23:48:16
i liked primer... and i think i need to watch it again.
I Dunno
#1703 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2006/12/14 05:36:46
I thought both of the commentaries seemed to touch more on the making of each scene and not much at all on the story. In particular, Carruth seemed unwilling to share his interpretation of the story.
Why I Hate The Industry
#1704 posted by Kinn [86.128.224.128] on 2006/12/14 05:59:57
Is anyone else as pissed off as I am over the recent torrent of shitty megabudget fantasy being churned out by Hollywood's bean counters and marketing men (and usually helmed by some visual effects supervisor masquerading as a "Director") to cash in on the success of LOTR and Harry Potter?
I mean the enormous hack job that was last year's Narnia was offensive enough, but it seems that this year we have a contender for "The most blatant attempt to create the next big fantasy franchise by getting the rights to film a shitty series of books and pouring all the money into marketing to try to convince the kids that it's another LOTR", when in actual fact the film is by all (early) accounts excreble garbage. Yes, that's right - Eragon. You see it's clever because it's "Dragon" with the D replaced by an E and it sounds like "Aragorn" and the movie has like elves and made-up languages and shit seriously you'll love this shit.
The sad thing is, because of the obscene amount of cash spent on the marketing, this film is gonna make a metric fuckton of money regardless of it's quality, make the talentless plagiarist spoilt arrogant little rich kid author of the books even richer than he already is (he only got his books published because Mummy and Daddy own a publishing company and they wanted their little Christopher to be happy and stop stomping his feet and throwing his books around the room). Have you even seen the books? Seriously it's fucking Star Wars with a few names swapped out and Jedis replaced by "Dragon Riders".
It's this line of thinking that is making New Line go ahead and rush out The Hobbit on the cheap and another (made up) LotR prequel that they somehow retain the rights to, all the while exluding Peter Jackson from having a chance to make it because of an unsettled lawsuit he has with them regarding withheld profits from the first LotR film's DVD sales.
What. The. Fuck.
To be honest, after LotR I anticipated the torrent of mediocre knock-off copycat shite that we'd be subjected to (I mean it's not like I have to watch it or anything), but I'm just getting tired of all this "me-too" hack bullshit that's now suddenly flying off the bookshelves and clogging up the muliplex.
Let's Do This!
#1705 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.221] on 2006/12/14 08:36:19
There was a three minute sequence of Eragon before Family Guy this week. The dialog, oh my God, did it stink! The least you can do when writing dialog for fantasy is to avoid phrases that anyone should be able to identify as contemporaneous. That someone paid to do this is just pathetic.
oh, it's on! Brrrr ...
I have never noticed the works of the
author even when browsing through Science Fiction stacks at the bookstores until the ad blitz from this movie occurred. There is a glut of heroic epic fantasy out now, and I prefer the ammoral sword and sorcery genre. I hate heroes, unless they are Batman.
#1706 posted by Kell [82.41.8.80] on 2006/12/14 09:52:24
The inclusion of Jeremey "evil englishman" Irons in Eragon adds another chuckle, because he was in that D&D movie that took years to make it into production and promptly sank like a rock in the face of LotR. I hate elves.
I think LotR is flawed. As has been observed before, any flaws with the films should be laid at the feet of Tolkien, not Jackson, and I'm sure that's the case. I hate elves.
My first glimpse ( and I mean glimpse ) of Eragon promo photos made me think "cool, they're gonna ride on the fantasy-epic wave of LotR, but make one with an actual story and characters with depth. Go on, you can laugh, cause I hadn't seen the trailer yet.
Have you even seen the books? Seriously it's fucking Star Wars with a few names swapped out and Jedis replaced by "Dragon Riders".
...sums up my impression.
Also: I fucking hate elves.
Kinn Is My Hero
#1707 posted by DaZ [80.41.154.179] on 2006/12/14 09:56:36
"I mean Superman could rape her so fast she wouldn't even notice anyway."
ROFL, that made my week.
Ok ok films I saw recently:
Superman Returns : Yeah I agree with you all really, it was fun to watch but it just didn't grab me, worth seeing but thats it.
Click : Utter, complete and total, utter, complete and utter, complete, utter SHIIIIITE
X3 : I enjoyed this a lot but I think X2 was a more rounded film, X3 has some very loose characters compared to the others too. Still, stuff blows up and people disintegrate and shit so its all good.
Way of the Gun : A Really great film about 2 rubbish thieves who get in over their head when they kidnap a pregnant woman who just happens to be carrying the baby of a very powerful man. Employs some very funny scenes too, which is surprising considering the moral tone of the film but it works well, definitely worth seeing.
Fucktons
#1708 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2006/12/14 10:25:52
this film is gonna make a metric fuckton of money
Sorry, I'm just curious, but what's the difference between a metric fuckton and an imperial fuckton? Do they vary just by a factor of 69, or are they different units of measurement all together?
#1709 posted by Kell [82.41.8.80] on 2006/12/14 12:15:36
Imperial fucktons are a british invention and are not officially used anymore, except nostalgically by elderly engineers and conservative politicians. It was a unit defined as the amount of a given natural resource, such as gold, ivory or slaves, that could be extracted from a conquered nation faster than the population could measure. It's use fell into decline and was eventually replaced by the metric fuckton due to the rise of manufacturing technology form the 1950's onwards.
The metric fuckton, while smaller, is commonly used to account for larger quantities and is defined as the amount of a given commodity with a cultural value of zero that can be transferred to a gullible public before becoming unfashionable.
The number of Cliff Richard singles that are sold on the last shopping day before christmas is usually measured in fucktons.
Also used, though less commonly, is the megafuckton which is equal to 1,000,000 fucktons.
There are a few quantities that are generally measured in megafucktons, such as the number of atoms in a galaxy, the marketing budgets for hollywood blockbusters, and mappers' egos.
Kell
#1710 posted by Lunaran [67.129.250.254] on 2006/12/14 13:05:05
I lolled, loudly, at work. I return the beer.
check your email once in a while too.
Too Funny
#1711 posted by Kinn [86.128.224.128] on 2006/12/14 17:56:01
I lolled, loudly, at work. I return the beer.
I did this too, except I'm not back at work until January 2nd :D
Kell, you rock.
As of this moment of writing, Eragon is sitting on a stunning 09% on RottenTomatoes. Now watch as this film dominates the Christmas box office, spawns a plethora of equally shitty sequals, and opens the door for even more derivative literary dreck to be greenlighted in a $100m film deal.
Oh well, there's always Uwe Boll's In The Name Of The King: A Dungeon Siege Tale to look forward to in the new year.
Pretty Damn Good
#1712 posted by HeadThump [4.136.249.19] on 2006/12/14 19:34:30
I was thinking Fuckton was a combo of Fuckhead + Automaton, but Kell went the flow and then rocked it hard.
#1713 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/14 23:25:15
Body Heat (1981) - Lawrence Kasdan's attempt at a modern revision/update of Double Indemnity is only an above average effort and nowhere near the same league as Billy Wilder's great film. Not being subject to the same restrictions, there is a lot more (and in my opinion unecessary) emphasis on s_ex and the script, while containg some ripper dialogue, lacks finesse. Maybe I am being harsh but if you're going to use Double Indemnity as a basis, a movie with one of the greatest scripts of all time, then your own script has to be of a very high quality.
Still, the direction is very confident and assured, Kathleen Turner is good as the femme fatale and William Hurt is excellent as Ned Racine, a smalltime laywer drawn into murder against his better judgment.
6.5/10
Seinfeld Season 7 - I think this is the weakest series so far, but thats a relative comparison as this still has some killer episodes and even the not so good ones are still quite funny.
I actually hadnt seen some of these before either, which was a nice surprise.
7.5/10
Kell
#1714 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/14 23:27:51
that was fucking brilliant.
But, I dont agree with this :
As has been observed before, any flaws with the films should be laid at the feet of Tolkien, not Jackson
I think if you see Jackson's other movies like King Kong and Heavenly Creatures, you will notice he has a tendency to overdirect and doesnt know when to stop on quite a few occasions. Subtlety or restraint isnt really his thing.
And while all three of the LOTR films are great movies, there are definitely bits that could have used those two charcteristics.
Tolkien's Narrative Techniques
#1715 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.151] on 2006/12/15 00:50:54
make it difficult to translate the trilogy into film. Even if you had time limit to tell the tale.
In the Return of the King, you have three endings. There is the standard ceremonial ending where the kingdom is put together, the king is crowned, brave souls honored and etcetera; then there is a strange middle ending, where the hobbits go back to the Shire and deal with evile afoot that was left unresolved.
This section is strange because the entire trilogy up to this point has been within the genre of epic fantasy, but the story in this part reads more like Tom Sawyer than what has preceded it.
After this ending you have the melancholy and infinitely sad passing of Middle Earth.
Likely, it is impossible to translate this to screen very well as it is quite a stretch even in written narrative.
Point well taken on Jackson's over direction, though. There are scenes in King Kong that needed to be slowed down and the actors allowed to get their lines spoken intelligibly but Jackson chose to have a lot of busy work going on in the background that overwhelmed everything else.
Should Be
#1716 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.151] on 2006/12/15 00:52:34
even if you had no real time limit
Oooh
#1717 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2006/12/15 02:41:00
[b]Pans Labyrinth[/b] [Laberinto del Fauno, El](2006)
Guillermo del Toro's Hollywood efforts may be sub-par at best, but by-god if they make him enough money to continue producing material like [i]The Devils Backbone[/i] and his new film [i]Pans Labyrinth[/i] then I say bring on [i]Hellboy 15[/i]!
Pans Labyrinth starts out almost like a live-action Miyazaki film, with an instantly involving sense of mystery and an incredible attention to detail, but then it gradually becomes more and more apparent that it's certainly not one for the whole family. This is a seriously dark film melding two seemingly unconnected yet seamlessly appropriate narrative strands together that will really keep the audience guessing as to when the Child characters' fantasy world and the grim plight of the Adult characters in civil war Spain will come together.
There's actually a particularly disturbing creature in the film that wouldn't look too out of place in Doom or Quake 1 so if anybody here gets the chance to go and see it, I'd strongly advise that they do.
Just be sure to have a strong stomach, because there's some stomach curdling gore in this that's on a par with the Hellraiser films.
Ohno! I Forgot This Place Uses HTML.
#1718 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2006/12/15 02:41:55
nt
That's Due In Oz Over The Summer
#1719 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/15 02:47:37
I've been hanging out for that one. Even when Del Toro makes duds, they're very stylish.
Superman Returns
#1720 posted by Kinn [86.144.16.61] on 2006/12/16 10:59:09
Got this last night and overall I really enjoyed it. I thought the film began poorly, and I was prepared for it to suck hard, but once the action got going, all the Superman moneyshots basically hit the target.
I was a little apprehensive about the changes to the costume design I had heard about, but I am pleased to report that my fears were in vain as Brandon Routh looked absolutely fabulous as the Man of Steel.
I'm not sure I like where the series is going with the kid subplot - I think Superman works best as a bachelor rather than a family guy, but hey it could turn out interesting.
I thought Brandon did a fantasic job of filling the gaping hole left by Christopher Reeve. His acting was really believable especially when he took a brutal pounding from Lex and the gang during the third act - that really did make me wince.
Most memorable scene: probably the slowmo (bullet time?) sequence where Brandon, I mean Superman, takes a hot load in the eye from the machinegun guy during the climax of the bank robbery scene. That was some pretty intense cinematography right there.
So in conclusion: two thumbs up
#1721 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/17 05:34:50
Army in the Shadows (1969) - Jean Pierre Melville's film about members of the french resistance during the second world war is one of the most atmospheric and moody films you will ever see. It's short on plot, and in fact the narrative structure is not really conventional playing out more like a "year in the life of.." with quite an abrupt ending. The script isnt concerned with The Resistance and what it actually did during the war period but is more focused on painting the state of mind of its members.
The acting is impressive and it probably features some of the best cinematography committed to celluloid.
What stops it from being a flat out masterpiece is that despite being very good at getting into the head of some of its characters, it never really lets the viewer get familiar with any particular character(s) and the result, whilst being undeniably great, is a very clinical and distant film.
8.5/10
Science Of Sleep
#1722 posted by bear [80.216.213.15] on 2006/12/17 07:18:20
I found it rather fantasic. Sure there were probably things that could have been better but not enough to stop me from loving it.
Uh
#1723 posted by megaman [84.63.28.60] on 2006/12/17 12:53:01
Most memorable scene: probably the slowmo […] sequence where Brandon […] takes a hot load in the eye from the machinegun guy during the climax
eh, what?
Also: i don't get it. you guys are blaming TOLKIEN for the bad lotr movie? What?! I blame nietsche for the passion of the christ not having the atheist ending i wished for.
meet the feebles is exactly why peter jackson was not the right director for a script that requires as much sublety as lotr. And yes, it requires loads of subtlety.
Reread #1715
#1724 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.122] on 2006/12/17 13:26:41
You are likely understand the point made better on a second read. Blame is not the correct word to use as it connotes that there is something wrong or perhaps lacking in quality in Tolkein's writing. I never touch the subject.
Tolkein's narrative structure makes it difficult to translate the story into a screenplay; at least, a screenplay that follows the story faithfully. I went over the problem this creates for Return of the King, but the other books have there on structural ticks as well.
Yeah, Kinn
Most memorable scene: probably the slowmo […] sequence where Brandon […] takes a hot load in the eye from the machinegun guy during the climax
What's up with that?
Megaman
#1725 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/17 13:33:47
re-reading kinn's comment now, I see your point :)
Yah
#1726 posted by Kinn [86.137.181.186] on 2006/12/17 15:24:31
Megaman, HeadThump - if you've seen the film you'll know which bit I mean. As soon as Superman starts coming he takes a piping hot load to the face and chest then when he's spent, the bad guy pulls out his own weapon and pops one off into Superman's eye and he takes it like a pro and doesn't even flinch.
Also: I'm not really getting the LotR hate here. I can't even imagine how horrible these films could have turned out in the hands of other directors at the time who might have been interested in filming them. If you'd followed the production of this trilogy you'd appreciate the absolutely crazy shit that the production company were trying to pull on this project and Peter Jackson had to lobby like a madman to get them to even accept a script that resembled Tolkien.
The fact that they even allowed him to make it into three films took nothing less than divine intervention.
Seriously, there is not an alternate universe where these films could have turned out as well as they did.
Hm
#1727 posted by megaman [84.63.28.60] on 2006/12/17 16:21:33
i have seen the first lotr ;) it was more a general comment on the way you guys argued
Most memorable scene: probably the slowmo […] sequence where Brandon […] takes a hot load in the eye from the machinegun guy during the climax
This just could easily describe a porn movie ;)
Congratulations Megaman
#1728 posted by Lunaran [24.159.240.226] on 2006/12/17 20:05:22
you found the point
#1729 posted by mwh [82.33.200.152] on 2006/12/18 04:00:37
It was almost as much a relief that the lord of the ring films didn't suck as I was happy that they were actually quite good :-)
Huh?
#1730 posted by megaman [84.63.16.177] on 2006/12/18 12:32:20
what point?
Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
#1731 posted by Kinn [86.128.236.7] on 2006/12/18 17:06:02
I just got this on DVD tonight. I was never much of a fan of the first one, but I have to admit Johnny Depp made it supremely watchable, even if the story itself wasn't up to snuff.
I did enjoy this slightly more, although it suffered from similar problems. The plot is spread very thinly to cover the two and a half hour running time but still managed to jump all over the place. I was pretty bored of the constant Kraken attacks towards the end of the film, but Davy Jones and his crew were cool to look at, and a lot more menacing than the zombie pirates of the first film. Bill Nighy made a good Quarren.
Overall though I think this is a perfect case of the film just getting lost in visual spectacle. Less is sometimes more.
Red Eye
#1732 posted by . [70.224.231.45] on 2006/12/20 13:33:00
What a great little thriller about a young held hostage under demand on an airliner. Fast paced, but well worth seeing, probably one of the most tense and just creepy films I've seen that didn't involve horror - and came from Wes Craven.
Red Eye
#1733 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/20 23:20:49
it was above average and reasonably well made but the silly ending was a bit much.
But way better than I thought it would be.
Red Eye
#1734 posted by inertia [24.164.73.173] on 2006/12/21 11:38:25
Felt so, so contrived. And the heat-seeking missile that locks on to... a hotel room? wtf?
Contrived
#1735 posted by . [70.224.231.45] on 2006/12/21 14:36:37
2. to bring about or effect by a plan, scheme, or the like; manage: He contrived to gain their votes.
Well, yeah. And?
#1736 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/22 22:06:27
Les Amants (1958) - The second collabration between Louis Malle and Jeanne Moreau is nowhere near the quality of their first, Elevator to the Gallows, but it's still an above average look at the emptiness of an upper class socialite's life in 50's France.
Malle's direction is good and Moreau once again demonstrates why she was one of the best actresses in history but it feels quite dated and the second half in particular comes across as lazily scripted.
6.5/10
Kenny (2006)- Aussie film done in the Spinal Tap mockumentary format about a portable toilet deliverer.
Very funny, and surprisingly, its also a very good film when it's not being funny. That second apsect is really why I think this really works as well as it does, because while the comedy would have been good enough on its own, it would have become a bit one note.
Plenty of poo jokes and plenty of very funny non-poo related jokes.
8/10
#1737 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/23 01:25:37
Daisy (2006) - how you go from making Infernal Affairs to this is hard to understand but this is quite a bad movie. Its well shot but there is next to zero directing ability shown here and the script is a hopeless mess of B grade melodrama mixed with B grade crime thriller.
4/10
#1738 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/23 22:59:31
Jindabyne (2006) - another aussie film and this one's a potentially great movie marred by some overportentous (and completely unnecessary) camerawork and background score. Its at its best in the second half, where Ray Lawrence sits back a bit and lets the script and acting come to the fore.
Petty good as it is, but could have been much much more.
7/10
#1739 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/25 02:23:36
Casino Royale - return to form ? Sort of.
Craig makes a fine Bond and Eva Green is also well upto the task but this needed to have been trimmed by around 30 minutes. It could have gotten away with its length if the pacing was better, but the movie starts off on acid and is hobbling on crutches by the end.
In the middle of all that is not a bad little action film with competently handled action scenes, but nothing extradordinary.
6.5/10
#1740 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2006/12/27 18:38:31
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) - rewatch, and while the watching on a big screen with surround sound plays up to two of its strengths, namely some fine cinematography and John Williams' impressive score, this still doesnt really work for me.
I find the acting shoddy, the drama not believable and the narrative pretty much non existent.
Worth a watch for some isolated scenes.
6/10
#1741 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2007/01/01 00:06:32
Simpsons season 8 - The last of the good seasons IMHO, sure there were good episodes after this, but not good seasons on the whole.
This one was actually better than 7 and had some great episodes and event he lesser ones were very consistent.
8/10
#1742 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2007/01/01 23:00:07
Paths of Glory (1957) - Stanley Kubrick's later work might have been bloated and overly ponderous but his early career is littered with great films. This is arguably his tightest film, an amazing achievement considering how tightly wound his fabulous film noir The Killing was.
Quite possibly being the second greatest war film, it is staggeringly well made with one of those great endings that only appear in a handful of movies. Its impeccably shot, I believe Spielberg when he said he was basing the war scenes in Saving Private Ryan partially on what Kubrick did here. It might not have the effects but the intensity is still captured in some great camerawork. And it's not only great cinematography during the war scenes, every scene is shot not just as an exercise in style but as supportive of the content.
Kirk Douglas was a limited actor but this is his best role. And the script about 3 men who are tried as scapegoats during a military failure is very well written, never bowing to cheap sentimentality, but still remaining very powerful.
The only minor flaw is that some of the supporting cast could have been slightly better.
9/10
The Thin Man (1934) - Above average comedy-thriller with some sharp dialgoue between its two leads, one a retired private detctive and the other his affluent wife. The script is better than the plot allowing its main characters some great dilaogue. Unfortunately the plot manages to retain too much focus, something that works against the film given its tongue in cheek tone.
6.5/10
#1743 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2007/01/06 17:46:41
Frida - another middle of the road biopic.
It's nicely scored and, although it only looks stylistically beautiful without the cinematography serving any real functional purpoe, its well shot.
Salma Hayek tries hard and is ok in the title role but the script suffers from the same problem as the majority of biopic scripts, trying to cram the whole life of its subject into the running time, rather than picking on a period or certain events to highlight what the character was all about.
5.5/10
#1744 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2007/01/07 03:09:06
Carnivale Season 2- ok, I have 3 main problems with this season so I'll get those out of the way first. None of them are related with the show being canceled and not finishing as it should have (although that is another negative but one that cant be helped).
Anyway :
- The pacing this season is very schizophrenic. Some of the episodes are very chaotic (especially the first 4) and seem completely at odds with the pacing of season 1 and also the majority of the second half of this season. It does settle down after the first 4 but there's still few in the scond half that display the same chaoticness.
- The manner in which some of the questions raised during the entire first season are answered is clumsily handled. This is quite a pity as it is really apparent that the majority of the major plotline was worked out well in advance and was not being made up as the show went along (eg Lost). This is also the reason most of it links together and fits reasonably well but if the execution of the exposition was better, the show would have been even greater.
- It plays the weird card far too often and for no real purpose. Season 1 had the balance right, this season felt as if it was trying to be weirdjust for weirdness' sake.
Right, with all that out of the way, this show is extremely well put together and even with all those problems, this is still great television. It might not be as close to perfection as season 1 was, but there's lots to admire and like. And at least it provided some answers, unlike certain other shows which just like to keep piling on the questions.
8/10
Permanent Midnight
#1745 posted by bambuz [213.169.24.232] on 2007/01/07 14:25:20
I've seen this in an on and off bits and pieces -fashion, but being a snapshotty story, it didn't bother me that muhc... I just now watched the last part.
I find a lot of it strangely... sobering? Stiller is a pretty strong character here and feels natural in the lead role.
One of those films that stand out a bit for me.. I guess it's the unordinary but still somehow reality-connected life that is so fascinating.
It's not a perfect family life shattered by a mass murderer, but instead just some guy trying to get by and stumbling a lot on the way. Explained in a sort of inadequate way.
Oh and twin peaks is re-running again... I never really watched it before.
The pilot and the first episode at least mostly make sense but from what I remember it goes downhill with time. :/
Pan's Labyrinth
#1746 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2007/01/08 13:55:59
Saw this over the weekend. A simple, well-crafted dark fairy tale. Recommended.
Seeing It Over The Next Week Or Two
#1747 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2007/01/08 23:46:18
looking forward to it.
#1748 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2007/01/12 17:22:38
Scoop - well Match Point was a change in direction and a return to form somewhat, but this is basically the same type of Woody Allen film we've been getting for the last 15 years or so, a tired attempt at trying to recapture the wit and freshness of his earlier years.
This extremely slight comedy/murder mystery runs briskily but that's about all it has going for it. Scarlett Johannson is way out of her league in trying to put in a comic perfromance, Allen is annoying, and Hugh Jackman doesnt havemuch to do. The script is less than half baked and the whole thing is quite uninspired.
5/10
#1749 posted by nitin [124.191.220.95] on 2007/01/13 16:43:55
Bringing Up Baby (1938) - not sure why I didnt really like it the first time around but upon a rewatch I was quite impressed by the zaniness of the whole thing. It still drops in the second half but to keep up this amount of wackiness for a whole movie should not really be expected anyway.
I'm also unsure what I thought about the performances last time around, but Katherine Hepburn really worked for me here. This is an inspired performance, which is much more than I can say for some of her later (and more celebrated) efforts. Cary Grant does well playing off her too.
7/10
Manhunter (1986) - Michael Mann's pre-Silence of the Lambs version of Red Dragon is, as usual, moody, well shot and well directed. However, it is also clusmily scripted, not very well acted and hampered by a very dodgy 80's soundtrack.
Brian Cox is actually pretty good as Hannibal Lecter but Lecter's character is not given as much screen time here as he was in the remake. But it's William "CSI" Petersen who is really unconvincing in the main role that later was played by Edward Norton. Petersen singlehandedly manages to undo all of Mann's good work with a fake performance that doesnt ring true in any way.
5.5/10
#1750 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/20 02:19:51
Ringu (1997) - rewatch, and I still think this is one case where the american remake is far superior. For one thing, Naomi Watts is much better in the central role of the journalist investigating the mysterious video tape deaths. Also, gore verbinski's version had some nice memorable imagery which the low key japanese version is lacking and there was also a more well created sense of weirdness and dread in the remake. The original has a slightly better plot, with the remake adding in some unnecessary and silly scenes, but given that the whole setup was fairly preposterous anyway, that didn’t bother me. I liked the ending on the remake, but I do think the ending on this version is superior (although it wouldn’t really have fitted in with the remake).
5.5/10
Red Dragon - Michael Mann's Manhunter was fairly average but this version of the novel is even weaker. Edward Norton is slightly more watchable than William Petersen in the role of Will Graham but only just, its still a fairly lacklustre performance. And although the dodgy 80's soudntrack from Mann's film is not present, the replacement by a generic thriller score isnt all that much better. Obviously, Hannibal Lecter's role is expanded, but this time Anthony Hopkins phones in his perfromance from Camp Cheese. And even though both movies had virtually the same plot and an identical screenplay, this version had the addition of an extremely dumb and silly hollywood ending. Mann's film was better directed, better shot and also much more moodier (despite still being very average).
5/10
A Scanner Darkly - Richard Linklater's lucid and trippy film is perhaps the best realised version of the essence of Phillip K Dick's work. Total Recall was a decent film, but its only the expansion of one of his short stories. Blade Runner is a great film, but it deviated significantly from the source material. And Minority Report is only above average.
The animation style adopted (basically real footage superimposed with animation) suits the material very well, and renders a drug induced world quite nicely. The first 2/3 is short on substance, but is surprisingly very funny, with Robert Downey Jnr and Woody Harrelson providing plenty of laughs.
But the movie takes a different turn in the last 1/3 and if you can withstand a meandering and sometimes aimless screenplay till then, you get a pretty good payoff as all the lightheartedness gives way to a rather haunting little sequence of events.
The final end credits, replicated straight from the book, make sure that feeling stays with you for a little while.
7/10
Thank You For Smoking - hmm, it's perfectly watchable but it definitely feels stuck in middle ground, where it's thankfully not as soppy as a feel good redemption tale, but is also not as biting and cynical as it could have been.
It's arguable that going further in either direction would have resulted in a lesser film, but as it is I found it to be a nice enough distraction but not really engaging.
6.5/10
#1751 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/20 10:05:56
The Bad Sleep Well (1960) - Akira Kurosawa's loose adaptation of Hamlet mixed with equal parts film noir, procedural thriller and corporate corruption expose is a great film let down slightly by a few missteps in the last act.
The opening twenty five minutes is devoted entirely to a wedding sequence and is a sheer masterclass as Kurosawa flawlessly sets up all the characters and slowly reveals all the information that will be necessary for the next two hours. Francis Ford Coppola must have been taking notes as his vitrual rehash of the scene to open The Godfather is as perfect.
What follows is a brilliantly shot, paced and acted movie that has a lot going on, and its only the anticlimax right at the end that doesnt quite deliver after the tremendous buildup.
8/10
#1752 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/21 02:50:50
Futurama Season 3 - Nowhere near as consistent as seasons 1-2, and there's no real great episodes either, although there's a handful of very good ones. The second half's probably the strongest so I hope that continues on to season 4.
6.5/10
The Black Dahlia - I really dont get all the negative criticism this has been garnering. Sure, it's a flawed movie that feels a bit empty and flat, is awkwardly paced and is miscast, but its also quite evident that its made by a real filmmaker.
Brian de Palma's skills have almost always been compromised by shoddy material (which he sometimes writes himself) and it's arguable that he blew a chance to make a great film here given the quality of the source material, and it does feel like the movie's missing several crucial scenes, but what is there is quite well made. He and the scriptwriters just needed to let it breathe more.
6.5/10
#1753 posted by Lunaran [24.159.240.226] on 2007/01/21 08:50:51
The Lady in the Water - M. Night Shyamalan's stories become increasingly childish and pie-eyed as this one revisits his theme of opening with a bedtime story he made up and then dwelling on characters that play parts in that story except he never told them. They spend two hours coming to terms with their 'purpose', having magically skipped over the part where they might actually question why their superintendent is telling them they have to protect a naked chick he found in the pool from a red-eyed dog made of grass so that the sky eagle can take her away. It might have been nice to throw that kind of bone to the audience first, because we're not buying it either, but instead Shyamalan almost acknowledges that he had no idea how to solve the problem of using his characters to elicit suspension of disbelief from his audience by ignoring the fact that he needed to in the first place and hoping we wouldn't notice. In one shot, frumpy stuttering protagonist learns that one of his tenants fits an archetype in this sea nymph myth the director made up, and then in the next that tenant has now miraculously been fully convinced of the reality of this myth by the frumpy stuttering protagonist and is totally cool with the whole thing.
Cinematography was the directorial equivalent of speaking in a monotone - nearly every shot is a long static cut from an utterly neutral angle, with editing that completely ignores all action and emotion his characters attempt to convey. It's like Stephen Wright was reading me the words to a lullaby he didn't care about. That's apparently Shyamalan's style, but I don't see how it adds a thing to his storytelling.
Havent Seen It
#1754 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/21 10:10:34
but usually christopher doyle is pretty impressive behind the camera. But I guess you can only shoot in the way you are told to :)
300
#1755 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2007/01/21 13:50:00
I saw the trailer yesterday evening, and it seems the movie will be interesting. The story comes from a legend of ancien Greece. the action takes place in Spartes. 300 Spartes warriors have to fight against hundreds Persians to save their city. It is as dark as Hell, the battles seems to be epic as "The Lord of the Ring" battles, and bloody as far as possible ! Everything I like in a movie...
Oops
#1756 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2007/01/21 13:51:53
fight against hundreds Persians
should have writen fight against thousands Persians .. otherwize the movie would not have any interest... :P
Come On JPL,
#1757 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.36] on 2007/01/22 00:16:51
Every school boy knows it is not a legend
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battl...
Altered
#1758 posted by Tronyn [207.47.212.238] on 2007/01/22 01:11:57
From some of the folks behind Blair Witch Project comes this well-written, well-acted and paranoid as fuck tale of alien abduction. While it is similar to Blair Witch in some ways (a small, tight cast, simple sets), it has a higher budget and for the most part doesn't take place in the woods or use shakycam. I can't really praise this movie enough, it's the best horror I've seen in a long time, and I watch a fair amount of horror films. The script is so well done, the way things are implied or slowly revealed really works to keep one engrossed, intrigued and increasingly worried and disturbed. The actors were all convincing and were all given a chance to let their characters come across as real over time.
HT
#1759 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2007/01/22 08:50:38
You know, I'm not a specialist of ancien Greece story... and it makes almost 25 years I for sure saw that at school... (remember I'm 37 this year... *sight*...)
300
#1760 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/22 09:24:20
yes, trailer looks interesting but this could be either really good or really bad.
Also
#1761 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/22 09:25:27
The Beat My Heart Skipped (2005) - Three reasons I wanted to see this, it was Jacques Audiard's followup to the fantastic Read My Lips, it was almost universally well received, and it has a plotline about a street level thug/debt collector whose interest in being a pianist is revived after spotting an ex-teacher. From then on, he is a conflicted soul who is torn between his art, his loyalty to his father, and his work. I wanted to see how you could make a good film with a storyline like that.
Well it's pretty easy to see why. Jacques Audiard is on fire behind the camera and Romain Duris is on fire in front of it. Audiard decides to basically just keep the camera as close to Duris as possible, which is not a bad move when your lead actor puts in such a magentic performance. He comea across as a mixture of pacino and deniro from their earlier 70's roles. The movie also has a terrific support cast and a good script for what the plot is. Ultimately its not a great film because there are only so many things that could be done given the general plot, but its sure is a very good one.
7.5/10
JPL
#1762 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.217] on 2007/01/22 09:42:30
That came across as harsh, I'm sorry and didn't intend anything more than a rasberry.
When I think of schoolboys, I get a picture of Angus Young in my head. Angus Young whistling 'you are only young but you are going to die' as he wacks Xerxe's Immortals with his six string axe.
HT
#1763 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2007/01/22 10:33:49
Don't be sorry, I was not hurted at all... It is just a fact that I'm getting older and older each days... and it is nobody's fault ;)
However, I agree that I could have take time to find more infos/references about the movie story... sorry for this... ;P
300 Movie Trailer
#1764 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2007/01/22 10:49:54
http://www.apple.com/trailers/wb/3...
300
#1765 posted by lazy_bum [84.10.80.145] on 2007/01/22 21:33:27
This trailer looks just like Frank Millers comic book. I think it will be next SinCity (in the comic book > large screen way).
#1766 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/23 14:36:35
Pan’s Labyrinth – Guillermo Del Toro’s latest movie shares many similarities with his 2001 effort, The Devil’s Backbone. It’s probably slightly better than Backbone in depicting the cruelties of the world through a child’s eyes.
The child, Ofelia, is unhappy with her current world after her mother remarries a sadistic captain upholding the post civil-war Spanish fascist regime and Ofelia creates her own fantasy world to escape from these realities. Unfortunately for her, in Guillermo Del Toro’s film, the fantasy world she creates is more an articulation of her realties than an escape.
I thought it started shakily but the longer it went on, the better it became both in terms of direction and scripting. Del Toro’s vision and aim are precise but I thought the execution was lacking in a few parts. Still, overall it’s a very good dark fantasy film with some very unique touches.
7.5/10
#1767 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/28 01:56:28
Swimming Pool (2003) - Francois Ozon's slow burn, well made psychological drama is not quite as clever as it thinks it is, but its well acted and shot and those two aspects put it in the above average category.
There's not a whole lot going on, a disillusioned writer takes a holiday in France at her publisher's holiday house only to find his irritable daughter present, and once you've twigged onto it, the rest of it is fairly predictable. Charlotte Rampling does well with her role and Ludivine Sagnier looks amazing.
6.5/10
Harper (1966) - Paul Newman tries hard to overcome the lacklustre material and direction in this film noir without the noir but doesnt quite manage it. Apart from Newman, everything else about this is fairly average, with next to zero atmosphere and mood, and a very predictable script.
5.5/10
La Haine (1995) - Matthieu Kossowitz's bleak look at a society in free fall makes for compelling viewing. Kossowitz has a unique style that seems to borrow a lot from Godard, and is quite chaotic as first, but once you get used to it, it is very effective.
There's not a whole lot of plot, the movie follows three 'suburban' french youths the day after a fatal riot, and whilst there is not a whole of on screen violence, the whole film is definitely saturated with a threat of it and you can feel the "hate" of the title in every frame.
Vincent Cassel is excellent in his portrayal of a disillusioned youth at breaking point due to society's inequality and again demonstrates that when he is not choosing poor roles like Ocean's Twelve, Elizabeth or Brotherhood of the Wolf, he is a very capable actor.
7.5/10
Spirit of the Beehive (1973) - Guillermo del Toro cited Victor Erice's debut as his biggest influence on Pan's Layrinth (and to a lesser extent, The Devil's Backbone) and it's not hard to see why.
In Beehive, Frankenstein is shown in a small spanish village and it has a lasting impact on two small girls, highly affecting their view of life. It's set in the same time period of post civil war Spain and has the same theme of the view of the world from a child's point of view, but the other thing you notice is how simple and forced Labyrinth seems in comparison.
Erice's movie is a sheer masterwork that operates on many levels and effortlessly succeeds on almost all of them. The technical aspects are first rate, but it is 5 year old Ana Torent's perfromance that keeps it in your head long after the movie is over. Its quite possibly the best work a child actor has ever done and I have absolutely no idea how Erice would have coaxed such a performance out of a 5 year old. Either way, it makes for compelling viewing and the ending is one of the great ones.
8.5/10
Can't Remember A Movie Title
#1768 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2007/01/30 18:39:12
So I watched a movie trailer some time ago. It seemed to be about a guy who has been away (in prison?) who returns after the death of his (retarded?) brother at the hands of his abusive friends. The guy hunts them down and terrorizes them, and wears a gas mask at some point. It's a British film set in current times.
Anyone know what I'm talking about? nitin, maybe you do with your extensive movie knowledge base?
Dead Mans Shoes.
#1769 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2007/01/30 23:04:16
A thoroughly fucked up film that leaves you feeling a little bit tainted after watching it.
It's good though!
Err. That Was In Answer To R.P.G Btw. ^
#1770 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2007/01/30 23:06:06
/afterthought
Cheers!
#1771 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2007/01/30 23:23:06
Beer for you!
Text Fish Beat Me To It
#1772 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/01/31 09:12:50
but yeah that's the one, pretty good. Shane Meadows' other stuff is owrth checking out too.
#1773 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/01 09:06:46
Au Hasard Balthasar (1966) - Robert Bresson's movie is an early example of the intersecting stories genre with the film following around a donkey as he's passed around from owner to owner during his life in a small french town. Bresson uses the fate of the donkey as a contrast to the lives of his characters and there's some brilliant scenes in this that work due to Bresson's style of having his non-professional actors speak and act in a manner devoid of any expression or emotion. This method strangely seems to make the viewer produce the emotion in scenes where the chracters should but arent. However, there are numerous times where the script is contrived enough to the point where it borders on silliness. This did detract from the film for me but overall its well worth a watch.
7/10
The Heiress (1949) - A decent movie, nothing more. The opening 45 min had me seriously questioning it, mainly due to olivia de havilland's annoying and one note performance during this time, but I did like where it ended up.
I still don’t see why an oscar was given to de havilland for this, she only really acts for the last 20 min. Ralph Richardson was much better as her overbearing father and Montgomery Clify was nicely ambiguous.
7/10
Dead Man's Shoes
#1774 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2007/02/01 22:24:31
Whoa. That movie is a bit fucked up. The camera work distracted me sometimes, but the movie was pretty good.
The Only Bits Where The Camerawork Bothered Me
#1775 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/02 09:04:31
was the dodgy flashback sequences.
Well Yeah
#1776 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2007/02/02 19:23:27
But that's pretty much what the whole movie was: flashback sequences, drug sequences, or both in the same sequence. :P
#1777 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/03 11:30:42
The Age of Innocence (1993) - Martin Scorsese's period drama is very opulent but it is also one of his weakest efforts, completely empty and devoid of any substance.
It has a shaky script and stiff performances from its main players, both of which improve significantly in the second half. Scorsese directs poorly with some very out of sorts pacing and an equally out of control camera.
The only pluses are the excellent production design and a very good score from Elmer Berndtstein.
5/10
Angel Face (1951) - Borderline great film noir which is probably also Otto Preminger's finest hour apart from Anatomy of a Murder.
Robert Mitchum is very good as the downtrodden loser, the script is well written, Preminger directs outstandingly and the score is great, but its Jean Simmons who steals the show with her keynote iconic performance as the femme fatale alluded to in the title.
The only thing that separates this from the great noirs is the relative absence of memorable dialogue.
7.5/10
#1778 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/05 11:46:40
Le Notti Bianche (1957) - Visconti's melodramatic fairytale version of Dostoevsky's short story is defnitely worth a watch, even though it doesn’t really succeed. It’s a very stylized movie, set in a completely artificially made city inside a studio, and that’s both its main strength and weakness. The setting gives it a bit of a surreal mood which suits the material but at the same time it also lends the whole thing an unconvincing feel, something it definitely cant afford given the story of two lonely people who meet by chance and each pursue their own version of a fairytale relationship. The performances also vary in quality depending on the scene but there's still a lot to like despite all the flaws.
6.5/10
Futurama Season 4 - slightly better than season 3 but still way below the quality and consistency of seasons 1-2. A handful of very good episodes but most were average-above average.
6.5/10
#1779 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/11 01:45:30
High and Low (1963) - A first rate procedural crime drama from Akira Kurosawa, I have yet to come across a bad film from him (Ikiru is probably my least favorite and even that was reasonably good).
Toshiro Mifune is once again excellent as a corporate businessman whose son is the target of a kidnapping/ransom, only to find out that the kidnappers got his chaffeur's son by mistake. It's a film of two distinct halves, the first half playing out as a psychological drama as Mifune struggles over what to do, and the second turning into a police procedural chase movie. Both halves are very well written, directed and acted but I think the movie suffers slightly in the second half from relegating Mifune's character to the sidelines.
Overall though, another excellent movie from the great Japanese director.
7.5/10
Oscar Thingy
#1780 posted by bambuz [213.169.28.6] on 2007/02/14 19:44:53
considering I've seen both Pan's Labyrinth and Little Miss Sunshine in the theater, neither was a particularly good film.
The first one was kinda good in almost every way. Good acting and interesting details and all that. But it still sucked, the feeling you got when you left the theater was just sadness. It didn't contemplate on the themes enough. And it was unnecessarily violent too.
Little Miss Sunshine then. Well, what can you say? It was unconvincing. Somewhat interesting characters and all that but it just wasn't that interesting as a whole, and you didn't need to wonder that much what would happen next. The "funny" things have been seen quite many times already, and the other things weren't just explored much.
I don't know any better movies since I haven't seen much.
Oh, Serenity was on tv on monday. What a load of crap. I thought it was supposed to be somewhat different from peoples comments. Why do they put millions of dollars to such stupid stuff? Maybe they should put a few million more to the script as it was such an inane story, not just in overarching picture but in details too. Maybe on par with star trek episodes. Childish.
The Inside Man
#1781 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.174] on 2007/02/14 20:02:34
was a good genre flick this year. Nitin's review was spot on. It has a lot of little plot holes that you don't really notice until you are thinking about it later because the acting and the clipped story telling keep it moving forward.
Given that the movie focuses on a slight of hand, likely a nod and wink is the reason more than technical flaws. Sometimes you chop off a bit of logic so you don't sacrifice the story.
I didn't bother to see what the nominees (any year with a dominate musical is a year I skip) for the Oscars are this year, but I doubt if Inside Man recieved any of them. To turn a common phrase, it has enjoyable flick that doesn't beg for the little statue nor for public adoration written all over it.
Er
#1782 posted by inertia [134.53.176.37] on 2007/02/14 20:56:33
But it still sucked, the feeling you got when you left the theater was just sadness.
Did the Pianist suck? How about Schindler's List?
Hmm...
#1783 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2007/02/14 21:07:55
I don't really care about the oscars, but I can't say I've really seen any better movies in 2006 than Pan's Labyrinth, Thank You for Smoking, and I guess A Scanner Darkly and Little Miss Sunshine were pretty good too. But none of those seem like "great films."
Admittedly, I haven't seen a lot of movies from 2006.
My Top Pick For 2006
#1784 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/14 22:30:05
would be The Prestige, marginally ahead of Inside Man, Pan's Labyrinth, Children of Men.
I havent seen a few things like Babel, Little Miss Sunshine etc but the ones I listed above I found quite enjoyable. I wouldnt consider any of them great films in my own opinion but all were very good.
Pianist And More
#1785 posted by bambuz [213.169.28.6] on 2007/02/14 22:36:30
the Pianist was a pretty good film. It had it's dead ends but all in all still many-sided.
Totoro (whatever the accompanying descriptions at your home theater were) was good in many ways. It was from the eighties, seems something more naive and sunnier was still more genuinely possible back then. I'd recommend watching when on a date. :)
#1786 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/17 06:48:12
Lost (season 2) - season one was decent, this one was above average overall, a stretch of 12 or so pretty good episodes in the middle bookended with 4-5 dud ones at both the start and finish.
The first season gave me the impression that it was being made up as they were going along, I take that back. If it's going where I think it is, then its actually pretty well set up but it's just being dragged out because the writers are being too cute.
6.5/10
Warning !! Longer Than Usual
#1787 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/19 10:25:26
Three Times (2006) - Hou Hsiao Hsien's Taiwanese drama features 3 love stories set across three different times (1966, 1911 and 2005) and uses the same actors in the principal roles of each segment. But in an un-hollywood bit of inspiration, none of the segments are connected in any way except to paint an overall picture and all 3 of them end differently so that none of the stories really mirror each other. By the end though, it's fairly obvious what Hsien's point is and the sum of the parts is definitely more than the individual stories by themselves.
There is not a whole lot of dialogue in the movie, and there's even less plot, but most of it is very easy to watch due to the strong acting, exceptional cinematography and assured directing (except for a stylistic choice in the middle segment). Each segment very easily conveys the time period its depicting, and especially manages to capture the mood of each period (no small task given the lack of dialogue or plot).
The first segment is almost perfect, Shu Qi and Chang Chen playing a pool room worker and army trainee respectively, who have an idealised but unfulfilled relationship due to Chen's character's military commitments. This was probably the only segment that worked well by itself.
Hsien goes one step further in the middle segment and plays it like a silent film, with only music being audible and reading cards coming on screen for any spoken dialogue. It's an understandable choice, but at the same time a very distracting one, especially given that this segment probably contains the most 'dialogue' in the whole movie. This time around, Qi and Chen play a courtesan and a writer (campaigning for Taiwan's independence from Japan) and while the script of this segment is probably the strongest, the style used lessens its impact significantly.
The last segment provides the point of the film, with the first two segments basically serving as context. However, the segment by itself is very average due to its predictability and while it manages to successfully illustrate what Hsien was going for, it was still a disappointing way to finish up. In this incarnation, Qi and Chen play adulterous lovers, Chen's character being a photographer cheating on his girlfriend and Qi's character being a singer cheating on her girlfriend.
Overall, its worth a watch, but it finishes up short of what could have been possible.
6.5/10
#1788 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/24 01:22:11
24 Season 5 - fairly ho hum season, probably the worst to date. I liked the turn season 4 took, where it ditched the realism to an extent and became more of an all out action show. There must have been complaints with that though as this season reverts back to the formula of the first 3 and this time around it looks really tired and strained.
On top of all that, its very lazily written too, with some overly silly turns and the whole season basically being a mesh of the best parts of season 2 and season 3 (the second half of both seasons respectively).
5.5/10
Election (2005) - Johnnie To's look at the biennial triad elections in modern day hong kong where old traditions clash with business needs comes across like half a movie, missing several crucial scenes and moving rather haphazardly from one set of events to the next without any sense of flow.
There's a handful of good moments, mosty near the end, but on the whole it comes across as fairly amateurish.
4/10
#1789 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/25 05:01:25
Election 2 (2006) - Johnny To's followup to Election is a much better movie all around, with more interesting characters, much better acting and a better handle on direction.
But although the flow is better, it still suffers from appearing to miss several crucial scenes. And the script is still downright silly in quite a few parts.
6/10
Goodbye Lenin And Others
#1790 posted by bambuz [213.169.26.122] on 2007/02/26 00:52:45
It's a german film, a humorous story, tells mostly about east germany.
I recommend it. It's not extremely deep but probes some things anyway and is original.
"79 qm DDR" is the original title in german. It's from 2003. (or 2002?)
I also today saw an interview ("movie") of Story Musgrave. What an intensive man. I recommend it.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt039051...
I've been watching twin peaks episodes. Thanks to the hard disk box of my flatmate I can actually follow a tv series for the first time in my life. (Well, maybe I watched the original batman some as a kid ;) ) I remember hating it when it ran and when there were reruns. I'm only now really following it closely. It's still overdone on many fronts but it is captivating to try to think and predict things. The music theme setting sets a nice atmosphere, as well as the ungimmicky and calm camera work. It's probably getting worse with time and getting mixed in its own cleverness.
Did The
#1791 posted by megaman [84.63.37.5] on 2007/02/26 01:14:22
hitler movie with helge schneider arive around your places? it's quite good, if you don't expect a really funny film. The ending sucks though :/
Somehow i don't believe helge schneider movies are played in other countries... :)
#1792 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/26 09:13:28
The Blue Dahlia (1946) - fairly decent low level film noir with veronica lake and alan ladd, hampered by a very predictable plot but saved by some great characters and classy dialgoue.
7/10
Dirty Harry (1971) - had only seen bits of this previously, first time I saw it properly. Anyway, eastwood gets most of the plaudits, but two of the other reasons this works as well as it does is Don Siegel's excellent direction and the downright pschotic Scorpio as the villain. And the music's great too.
7.5/10
Re: Dirty Harry
#1793 posted by metlslime [69.181.182.38] on 2007/02/26 09:18:11
I watched the entire series over a weekend a few years ago. Only the first movie is actually good; the rest of them are worth watching only for some good moments.
Metl
#1794 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/26 09:26:08
yeah, I've heard that although people still me that Magnum Force is worth a watch.
I dont think Siegel was involved with the sequels, which like I said, was a big part of the first's quality.
Twin Peaks
#1795 posted by mwh [72.254.192.46] on 2007/02/26 19:27:22
I really like the style and basic attitude of Twin Peaks, and the first series is pretty awesome, but the second series mostly sucks and you can see why it got canned.
Watched The Departed Last Night
#1796 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.250] on 2007/02/26 20:06:11
terrific acting from everybody but the screen play was a mess --
Hey Frank Costello, your crew just murdered the Boston City comish, what are you going to do next?
'I think I'll go to Disney Land, after all they wouldn't exactly call out the National Guard to break down every door and squeeze Southie until they got me now would they? Nah, I'm sure they would wait around and tail me until I scored a load of coke and bust me then.'
Frank, you are doing some deals with Chinese nationals, you realy think your FBI contacts can protect you from an NSC wanting to appear effective in the War on Terrorism, and a President who wouldn't mind riding a mob boss like a pony if it boosts his poll numbers a few points?
'Nah they may have a few cameras and listening devices but they wouldn't actually raid while I'm playing biggest gunnest with Triad types. Why would they? They don't know I'm carrying chips that can be used for cruise missiles on me'
But it is clear they know every little detail of what you have and how you got it.
'Then what the hell are they waiting for?'
I don't think the screen writers actually thought that one through, Frank.
Headthump
#1797 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/26 22:34:03
yep, while trasposing it from hong kong to america, it doesnt quite work as well as Infernal Affairs (although that had its own faults).
Its definitely a good film, but hardly a great one.
Infernal Affaris
#1798 posted by inertia [134.53.176.37] on 2007/02/27 00:12:25
Was boring ! :)
Mmm.
#1799 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2007/02/27 01:04:38
I loved Infernal Affairs, but despite my expectations I found The Departed much more effective. I'm inclined to think that it's because it's more 'western' so I can relate to it better, but I also loved every performance and I think much more love was put in to the soundtrack.
I'm also glad that it's not going to be a trilogy. The second two Infernal Affairs films were decent, but I found that they detracted from the first simply because I didn't feel that the story needed to go any further.
I Like Both About The Same
#1800 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/27 09:47:13
different things to like in each.
Dearted has the better soundtrack with Gimme Shelter and is a lot funnier but Infernal Affairs had that killer performance by Tony Leung which is better than DiCaprio's (although he was still good) and also I liked its ending better and the plot had less holes.
Dropkick Murphey's Was Put
#1801 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.204] on 2007/02/27 19:54:18
to excellent use. I would complain a bit about using Rolling Stone A.M. hit tunes instead of album cuts (Moonlight Mile would go great with a coke injestation scene) but then I recall that Let it Loose was also played in the movie, so that criticism would not be exactly accurate.
#1802 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/03 01:55:43
The Illusionist - above average I guess but it really pales in comparison to Chris Nolan's far superior The Prestige. Nolan's movie had more depth in its script and its themes, more interesting characters and much better acting.
This is well shot, with a nifty lighting trick to make its production design seem fancier than it is, but everything else from the acting to the directing to the scriptng is on autopilot. And the less said about the very predictabe plot the better.
6/10
Two More
#1803 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/05 09:10:42
Jezebel (1938) - Almost great melodrama with Bette Davis turning in a fantastic performance as a domineering and manipulative woman in 1850's New Orleans who is not afraid to break from society's rrules and traditions in trying to control her fiancee and those aorund him.
William Wyler directs well and the supporting cast is also very good, but this is Davis' show in every frame. Apart from a well conceived but not well executed ending, I didnt find too much wrong with it.
7.5/10
Whatever Happened to Baby Jane (1962) - Well made bizarre semi-gothic film with Bette Davis playing "baby jane", a has been ex child star who is now a deranged misfit who both looks after and torments her more popular ex-actress sister, Blanche (played by Joan Crawford), who is paralysed from the waist down after a car accident in which Jane was involved.
Treads that fine line between really bad and deliberately campy pretty well, mainly due to the very good acting from both leads. Davis has the showier role and runs with it, she's barely recognisable both in terms of look and also her character. There's also some finely written supporting roles and a few interesting turns in the script, but the whole thing does feel as if it runs 15-20 min too long. The very end scene is pure genius though.
7/10
Trainspotting
#1804 posted by megaman [84.63.55.16] on 2007/03/08 21:31:12
ok, first of all, i watched it in english and didn't get some parts - the (scottish?) accent was just too much in places for me. I don't think that's a large problem though.
I was a bit dissappointed, as i heard quite good reviews of it. The sets were nice and the camera was, too, but overall it felt way too forced for me. forced like snatch/lock stock barrel bla feel forced, but those are comedy, trainspotting was more tragedy for me (at least the seriousness of the setting/theme suggests that).
the characters weren't exactly well defined or played well (even though i heard praise of ewan mcgregor he felt like he was just walking his body through the sets [or maybe that's great play wtf]), i liked the accents though.
what more is there to this movie? it had some serious 90's feel to it, but again, in a forced manner.
i dunno, this just isn't deep enough for me i think, it doesn't explore the (interesting) ideas it touches to their full extends.
5/10 for it being still quite entertaining.
Finally Got Around To Seein Pan's Labyrinth At The Cinema
#1805 posted by bear [80.217.113.98] on 2007/03/08 23:40:40
Overall very nice but much of what was going on as part of the civil war outside the house was much less engaging than the bedroom scenes and Ofelia's fairy tale adventures. I think it could have been better with almost all focus on the relationships between Ofelia, her mother, the captain, Mercedes (and maybe the doctor) and the fairytale stuff with less soldiers running around shooting at each other. That being said I do think both the real world and fantasy threads were twined together into a good ending.
Ofelia's second test should was cool enough to deserve a whole movie with more stuff like it.
Trainspotting
#1806 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/09 12:09:19
havent seen it for a while, but I thought it was great the first time around.
It moved (for me) seamlessly from comedy to drama, and while there was nothing deep about it, it was still very much an engaging watch.
#1807 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/11 02:09:18
Ghost Dog : Way of the Samurai (1999) - Jim Jarmusch's homage/loose remake/parody of Jean Pierre Melville's excellent Le Samourai is an above average effort that is quite quirky and humorous but never as satisfying or classy as Melville's film.
As is usual in a Jarmusch movie, there's plenty of mood, an impressive soundtrack, not much dialogue and even less plot. And as is usual, the sum is less than the parts. Forest Whittaker acquits himself well but he's no Alain Delon, especially when Jef Costello was probably Delon's most iconic role.
6.5/10
Omkara (2006) - Vishal Bhardwaj's adaptation of Othello set against the backdrop of the political scene in north eastern india is not your standard bollywood movie. Its a bit of a shame that something like this is the exception rather than the rule when it comes to indian films, because the talent is obviously there, it's just not utliised properly.
Apart from some slightly uneven pacing in the second half, some one dimensional characterisations and an over intrusive background score, this is high quality moviemaking. The acting is uniformly impressive, despite some of the characterisation, with Saif Ali Khan a standout in the role of Iago. And for once the songs dont interfere and detract, but are integrated into and are an appropriate part of the narrative.
But the real highpoint is the dialogue, Bhardwaj's self written script impressively retaining the essence and prose of Shakespeare's dialogue while simultaneously adapting it to the coarse rural north indian dialect of Uttar Pradesh (think of the style of Deadwood's dialogue). On a side note, the dvd version I saw had terrible subtitles, so I'm not sure how well it will fare for non-hindi speaking viewers.
7.5/10
Nitin:
#1808 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/03/11 09:09:59
you speak hindi?
Metl
#1809 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/11 09:15:11
yep,speak, read and write in order of fluency :)
300
#1810 posted by pjw [75.128.252.25] on 2007/03/11 09:21:00
Saw this on Friday on the big IMAX screen with the rest of the work crew, and, damn. One of the most enjoyable movies I've seen in quite a while.
The movie is based on Frank Miller's graphic novel "300", which is itself a retelling of Herodotus' tale of a vastly outnumbered force of Spartans attempting to hold the narrow pass at Thermopylae against the invading Persian army. The movie perhaps overdoes the exotic elements and effects a tad at times (e.g. the Persian bordello of yuck), but in my opinion, the sheer gusto of the whole thing makes up for it.
Great fight scenes. I've also seen very few movies that combine beautiful cinematograpy with huge helpings of grittiness (i.e. blood, sweat, grime) to such a striking effect.
At this particular showing, the audience spontaneously erupted into cheers at least a couple of times--the filmmakers certainly did something right.
Nitin
#1811 posted by . [69.217.55.2] on 2007/03/11 17:13:27
Interesting, may need your help.
Phait
#1812 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/12 00:40:14
in what way ?
#1813 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/12 01:59:43
Excalibur (1981) - John Boorman's version of the Arthurian legend is halfway terrible but strangely compelling. There's some shoddy production values that look frequently cheesy, the dialogue is cringeworthy at times and the performances are uniformly overly theatrical, everyone yelling most of their lines rather than acting.
However, it is also exceptionally well shot and scored, impeccably paced, and somehow manages to evoke the otherworldy feel of paganism and the dark ages. The direction really is outstanding (apart from the choice of acting style) and goes some way to making up for most of the weaknesses to some extent.
Definitely a more worthwhile watch than the recent attempt, King Arthur.
6/10
300
#1814 posted by inertia [24.164.73.173] on 2007/03/12 04:33:26
Saw this today (not on an IMAX screen, though!). Great gritty feel, each scene had a clear purpose, and generally just felt epic.
300
#1815 posted by R.P.G. [65.188.147.21] on 2007/03/12 04:42:57
(Minor spoiler alert.) Was I the only one who felt the ending was anticlimactic, though? I mean obviously the Spartans die etc etc, but they just kinda sat there.
Otherwise I liked it. Too bad I didn't see it in Imax.
RPG
#1816 posted by inertia [24.164.73.173] on 2007/03/12 05:51:03
it's about their honorable lives, moreso than their honorable deaths...
Nitin
#1817 posted by . [69.217.55.2] on 2007/03/12 06:47:40
Was thinking of using some Hindi in some music titles, etc.
Phait
#1818 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/12 09:05:11
I see, well give me a yell when you need in GA.
#1819 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/13 09:19:03
Throne of Blood (1957) - Akira Kurosawa's reasonably faithful adaptation of Macbeth is considered by many to be one of the best Shakespearean adaptations and also the best film version of Macbeth. That might be true as it is very well made and the deviations and exclusions from the play actually give it a somewhat better plot, but what will make or break this for you is Kurosawa's decision to film it with influences of Noh drama, basically meaning that the main actors perform in a very heightened style of overly theatrical acting and holding their expressions for long(er) periods of time.
It has been employed in some of his other period movies that I have liked, but usually in those there's more flamboyant direction or an ensemble cast acting normally, to offset the experience. In this particular movie, I just couldn’t get past it and it detracted from the quality of the rest of the movie.
Still worth a watch, but I was a little disappointed personally.
6/10
Six Feet Under Season 5 - The last season still carries over some of the soapie elements that crept in during seasons 3 and 4, but it also contains some of the best episodes and scenes in the entire series. When this show gets things right, it really works, and the last 15 min of the final episode is really great television that stays with you. I was up for two hours after seeing it last night.
Special mention to the acting by Peter Krause and James Cromwell throughout the season, it was first rate stuff from them.
7/10
Alpha Dog
#1820 posted by megaman [84.135.161.16] on 2007/03/16 22:04:13
Don't. Just don't. Total boredom and no room for the actors at all.
HOT FUZZ
#1821 posted by DaZ [80.41.139.196] on 2007/03/17 02:56:13
Saw this the other day, LOL!
Ok so its the same director and actors from Shaun of the dead, and the same style of humour also, so I geuss the easiest thing to say is if you liked Shaun, you will like this :)
I personally laughed out loud a lot more than the others cos I worked for the supermarket depicted in the film for a while and they rip the total piss out of it, some great moments there, and generally a ver enjoyable film as long as you dont take it to seriously...
#1822 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/17 13:51:15
The Sopranos Season Six Part 1 - the first six episodes are as good as the show has ever been since season 3, but then there's a huge downturn in quality as some of the poorest writing to date takes over, especially in relation to two major subplots (vito and AJ).
There's only so much the performers can do when the scripts are poor and the last six episodes make sure this is the worst season so far by a long way.
6.5/10
Red Beard (1965) - Akira Kurosawa's overlong but brilliantly made period film about a medical intern taking up apprenticeship in a public clinic in 19th century Japan against his wishes further demonstrates that his non-samurai films were just as great as his samurai ones.
The main plot can be seen as melodramatic soap opera stuff but the script and direction never let it come across that way. Apart from one badly misjudged sequence, there's a perfectionism present here in almost all aspects.
Toshiro Mifune is great in a restrained performance and his final collabration with the great Japanese director is excellent stuff.
8/10
And More
#1823 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/19 09:45:55
8 1/2 (1965) - I didn’t really get it. Federico Fellini's universally lauded movie is probably the most abstract and distant thing I have ever seen. I get the crux of it, the difficulty of the creative process, but don’t know how or what all that is depicted is meant to be. It is a film about a director struggling to make a film, in much the same way Adaptation was scripted to be about a writer struggling to write a script. It can therefore be seen as an exercise in self reflexivity and/or a film about the process and difficulties of filmmaking and/or the alienation and frustration experienced by someone who doesn’t know what to do and who is constantly being pressurised both personlly and professionally.
There's some very fluid camerawork and it moves seamlessly from reality to fantasy to memories but I just found that I couldn’t connect with it on any of the three levels mentioned above. It almost felt like you had to know Fellini, the person, to really get into it. Either way, it was an admirable effort but not something for me.
6/10
Sarkar (2005) - Ram Gopal Varma's loose adaptation of The Godfather set in the Mumbai underworld is a disappointing effort from someone who usually excels in that genre. Varma decides to give Coppola and Puzo's film an MTV makeover, relentlessly editing and moving the story forward, so much so that all character development is lost and buried, something that was a key to The Godfather's greatness. It also has one of the most overly bombastic and annoying background scores in recent memory. Some of the performances are good, but their impact is lost as none of the characters are given any time to breathe.
6/10
Clerks 2 - Kevin Smith's followup to Clerks is a decent movie till about 3/4 of the way through. Till that point, it's a low key, reasonably funny movie with some great monologues that are trademark Smith (my 2 favorites being the rant about how star wars is better than the LOTR trilogy and how porch monkey is an inappropriate racist term that should be reclaimed for general use). Then, it descends into 20 of the stupidest minutes in recent cinema, crashing from one bad scene to the next. It goes for funny and sentimental, and ends up being just tragic, ruining an otherwise decent effort.
5.5/10
I Felt The Same Dissapointment
#1824 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.63] on 2007/03/19 21:11:16
with 8 1/2. Everything else he has done
that I have seen is much better in what makes a good film imho, evocation of mood, story, characterization, umph, gusto, pretty actresses and the like. Why this one is considered his best in the general assessment of critics alludes my understanding. Frankly, I thought it was a waste of time to watch.
Yeah....
#1825 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2007/03/19 21:32:57
8 1/2 was well-filmed and interesting and artsy and stuff, but it never really engaged me.
Cool
#1826 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/20 09:30:33
so it wasnt just me then :)
Have to say I felt the same abou La Dolce Vita.
Watched The New Korean Horror/thriller Last Night
#1827 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/03/21 13:01:29
The Host - Joon Ho Bong's followup to Memories of Murder isnt as great a film, but its quite a good effort for a monster movie.
I think it works as well as it does because its quite funny, black humour popping up in many unexpected scenes. Secondly, the creature isnt the sole focus which makes all the scenes not involving it work as well.
It takes on a bit too much (juggling satire, horror, thriller and family drama) which causes it to lose focus occasionally and become uneven in its pacing, but at the same time its that very characteristic that makes it so refreshing and unpredictable.
The CGI is convincing, although a bit shoddy in places, but Bong's audacity to shoot most the creature scenes in broad daylight in long uninterrupted takes (normally a no-no for movies like this) pays off quite well.
7/10
Shadow Of The Colossus Featured In A Movie?
#1828 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/03/24 10:59:29
This was an interesting article despite being on Kotaku:
http://kotaku.com/gaming/top/featu...
The short version is SOTC is featured in the upcoming movie Reign Over Me, and they did it as artistic choice rather than as product placement (I actually believe it since that's the wrong game for them to choose if it was really a marketing decision.)
Still, it would be interesting to see how they use it and whether it actually enhances the movie or not.
Metl
#1829 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/03/24 14:24:32
havent seen it, but adam sandler plays a character suppressing his past (wife and daughter killed in 9/11) by isolating himself and playing lots of video games etc
#1830 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/03/26 11:29:27
The Lady Eve (1941) - I find this to be the best of Preston Sturges' films, although it is still nothing more than above average in my eyes.
Thankfully, the slapstick is gone, and this time the reliance is on the dialogue for the comedy. Henry Fonda and Barbara Stanwyck are both terrific and the script is good, but there was still a lot more room for wittier dialogue I think.
6.5/10
Pat Garett and Billy the Kid (1973) - Sam Peckinpah's version of the famous western legend is an odd movie, with brilliant individual scenes, but never quite coming together as a whole. Part of it is probably down to studio interference as he was never allowed to release his intended version. The dvd comes with 2 cuts, one labelled a director's cut, albeit still incomplete, and the other a 2005 restoration which is a combination of the theatrical and director's cuts.
The director's cut is definitely the better movie, if only because it uses the instrumental rather the vocal versions of Boby Dylan's music which is very overused and distracting in the 2005 version. It also has a better epilogue and prologue section which is still good but not as effective in the 2005 version. However, the newer version does include some great new scenes that really should have been part of the original version.
Either way, it's still a worthwhile watch but comes across as a mishmash rather than a coherent vision. James Coburn is great as Pat Garrett, the outlaw turned sheriff who is given the task to track down his old friend, but Kris Kristofferson is only ok as Billy the Kid, the outlaw who doesn’t want to adapt with the times. Some of the dialogue is brilliant and certain scenes show a lot of skill from Peckinpah, but this never quite reaches The Wild Bunch standards.
7/10 for director's cut
6.5/10 for the 2005 version
#1831 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/03/28 13:19:24
Wedding Crashers - probably one of the worst movies I have seen in the last 5 years.
Insipid and unfunny.
2.5/10
Equilibrium
#1832 posted by Spirit [213.39.158.186] on 2007/03/31 14:26:20
Get cool suits, a grumpy face, a bad storyline, wait-let-me-explain-fights, a electro-punching-orchestral and sometimes metal soundtrack and a puppy. Then add a "bit"
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
clichéclichéclichéclichécliché
What an empty movie. :\
Nice to flee from boredom but probably nothing I will watch again.
Equilibrium
#1833 posted by inertia [134.53.176.37] on 2007/04/01 08:11:40
highest on-screen body count! a fun movie i think if a bit narrowfocused
#1834 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/02 11:11:43
Babel - Its definitely the weakest of Alejandro Gonzales innaritu's 3 movies, but that's only in the context of his 2 great earlier films. I also think this was wrongly marketed, its not really a butterfly effect movie but more about what its title implies, the ability (and inability) of people to communicate with each other. And I think it explores that theme fairly well on quite a few different levels.
There are two problems, the first being the length. Innaritu is at his most self indlugent in this movie and while he gets away with it because the overall result is of high quality, the movie still has scenes that go on for far too long without any great purpose.
The second problem is the occasional scripting pitfall into contrivedness. It is one thing for characters to act irrationally under duress, it is something else to have them do dumb stuff solely so the plot can move towards a certain direction.
Apart from those though, I found it to be very well made, acted and written. It is possibly less accessible than his other two movies as the individual stories are probably not as engaging, but I think the overall result is still of a very similar quality. And the tracking shot to finish it off is also highly impressive.
7.5/10
Children Of Men
#1835 posted by negke [82.83.41.241] on 2007/04/02 21:55:34
what nitin said.
i found the uprising/war scene in the refugee ghetto to be pretty intense. probably because of the long shots and shakey camera - it felt like being a live spectator.
#1836 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/05 11:10:59
[b]Hollywoodland[/b] - so so [b]Chinatown[/b] wannabe about a (fictional) investigation into the death of George Reeves, who played Superman on tv in the 50's, after he was found dead in his house with a gunshot wound to the head. The police close it as a suicide case but Adrian Brody's private detective is hired to find out if it was foul play.
I'm all for film noir, but I don’t really understand why this particular story needed to be done in this fashion. The flashbacks of george reeves' life are reasonably interesting with both Ben Affleck and Diane Lane doing well but its unfortunately interspersed with the far less interesting investigation carried out by Brody and also the troubles in his personal life.
It doesn’t help that Brody is miscast and tries too hard to channel somr sort of a combination of Bogart and Nicholson. Allen Coulter, whos directed episodes of the sopranos and six feet under, doesn’t do a bad job but it always feels like you're watching an extended tv episode rather than something from a proper filmmaker.
5/10
300
#1837 posted by DaZ [80.41.132.199] on 2007/04/05 21:38:26
Just saw this last night...wow!
Really well shot, bloody as hell, and spartans are cool :)
Frank Millers influence is obvious in most of the camera angles and shots used, while the film isn't as deviant as Sin City it is very unique in its look and feel, its very refreshing to see a battle scene that doesn't use the horrid "MTV" close-ups and fast cutting that is plaguing the movie business atm.
The narration is not as heavy as Sin City either but its there and is generally very good at giving exposition to the characters and plot.
Go see this :)
300
#1838 posted by Spirit [213.39.169.148] on 2007/04/05 21:47:59
Saw it hours ago and I am still trembling from the awesome action!
The non-action-scenes were a bit boring and annoying at times, but overall a freaking nice movie that one MUST see in the cinema (if one wants to see it).
#1839 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/06 03:06:53
The Squid and the Whale - Noah Baumbach's acidic look at a parental divorce through the eyes of the children is a very well written effort that works equally well as drama and comedy.
Jeff Daniels is excellent as the intellectual writer father who is full of himself but also a role model to his eldest son. Laura Linney matches him as the unhappy, affair having wife who also threatens her husband's ego with her writing skills.
But it's the acting by the two kids that really makes this, managing to sell the sad and awakward moments as well as the frequently funny moments that are littered throughout.
7.5/10
#1840 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/08 03:13:10
Extras Season 2 - Slightly disappointed, though it's still on par with season 1, having funny scenes but apart from 1 or 2 great episodes there's also quite a few mediocre ones.
I think one of the main problems with this series is that it frequently substitutes cringeworthy for funny. There's a fine art to doing awkward humour, which Gervais perfected in The Office, but here he misses the mark quite a few times.
The other problem is that Andy Millman is just not a character you can have pity on, he's almost like David Brent but this time we're meant to feel sorry for him. I think most of those scenes dont work either.
Having said all of that, when it is funny, it's good stuff. The Ian McKellen epsiode is pure gold.
7/10
Tokyo Story (1953) - Yasujiro Ozu's overlong but great look at the disintegrating unity of a family in post war Japan is hard to describe. There's nothing really about it that can be described as great individually but the whole experience is definitely something that you will remember.
Ozu's style takes a little while to get used to with its static camera, long shots and actors frequently talking straight into the camera, but after a while you can see that it's a finely honed and meticulously planned skill that is quite effective.
The runtime is a bit too long, but that's about the only criticism I have.
8/10
The English Patient - The academy has awarded some very poor films in recent times, and this one is no exception.
Quite possibly one of the most superficial and glossy films ever made, this has exteremly stilted direction, a very poor screenplay and and a comatose centrepiece romance that is never convincing.
The photography is decent but comparisons to Lawrence of Arabia are completely off the mark, most the effect in this movie is from the location rather than skilled camerawork.
Acting is ok, but the characters are quite poorly etched so no one really stands out.
4.5/10
And Some More
#1841 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/09 03:49:27
Titanic - pretty much what I expected.
James Cameron takes every opportunity to showcase his technical expertise, even before the ship starts to sink, and while he is doing that it is pretty spectacular stuff. But as soon as the focus shifts to the thinly sketched characters and their even thinner story, it dissolves into tedium.
Still, the ship sinking last act is very well done.
5.5/10
Twin Peaks season one - Very impressive, had never seen this before and it holds up quite well. I have no idea how this made it on to network tv (let alone become popular), as this would probably still be a cable show if it was running today.
Anyway, apart from some dodgy acting, there is a lot to like here. Its a bit of a retread of Blue Velvet for David Lynch but the atmopshere, music and characters are first rate. Dale Cooper is probably one of the best tv characters in any show, nice work by Lynch, frost and Kyle Maclachlan there.
I've heard mixed things about season two, but I'm looking forward to it.
7.5/10
Sunshine.
#1842 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2007/04/10 01:45:31
Danny Boyle directs well, but once again Alex Garland fails to deliver as a writer. Why they decided to work together again after The Beach is beyond my understanding.
The first half is a pretty cool sci-fi thriller and shows plenty of promise. The second half is absolutely terrible and full of conveniently unexplainable phenomenon, which never seam to serve any purpose other than to extend the film by an hour.
To be honest, the entire premise of the film is flimsy at best so it was wrong of them to take it as seriously as they did.
Rewatched Brazil
#1843 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/10 14:12:50
I have to say I completely change my mind.
It is still probably the perfect example of a love or hate it film, but I now think that its definitely a great movie. In fact, I dont think Terry Gilliam will ever top this, there is no way he will be able to exercise this much control over a movie and there is no way his movies can turn out as brilliant as this if he isnt allowed that control.
Dont know what changed during the time I last saw it but I now find it to be a fantastic combination of Orwell's 1984 and the antics of the Monty Python group.
It is possibly a bit too long, with one dream sequence too many, and it does lose its way a little in the second half, but this time around I found the opening 80 min or so to be terrifically sustained brilliance.
Jonathan Pryce is excellent as Sam Lowry (a role that was actively pursued by Robert De Niro) and De Niro himself runs with the role he finally got, playing a subversive heating and cooling engineer wanted by the government. The support cast are also great.
Also, maybe it was the print I saw last time, but on the new dvd I really dig the world Gilliam has managed to create. The retro mechanical bureaucratic society is filled to the brim with nice little odd touches.
So yeah, well worth a watch, but make sure you get your hands on the uncut 142 min version.
8/10
The Glass Key (1942) - fairly decent version of Dashiell Hammett's book, although it was better adapted by the Coen brothers in the great Miller's Crossing.
Still, this Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake starrer is pretty good straightforward noir with some interesting characters and events. Some of the stuff Alan Ladd's character does would not fly today without some sort of explanation or redemption tacked onto it and the lack of those make for refreshing viewing.
7/10
Wow
#1844 posted by ionous [70.19.206.140] on 2007/04/13 04:04:53
Just saw Grindhouse.
There is a grenade jump in the movie.
For real.
#1845 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/14 14:39:54
A Fistful of Dollars (1964) - fairly good movie from Sergio Leone, the start of the famous dollars trilogy, but it's not quite on the same level as the two films that followed or of the movie it was a remake of. It feels a bit too rough and low budget compared to either of For a Few Dollars More, The Good The Bad & The Ugly or Yojimbo but the stylish direction and Ennio Morricone's excellent score make up for that to quite an extent.
6.5/10
Borat- I know I'm in the minority but I found this to be totally unfunny and also more surprisingly I was not even shocked or disgusted, just...indifferent I guess.
2/10
Fistfull Of Dollars...
#1846 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/04/15 11:08:36
!!!!.... I thought this had more of a real plot than the two sequels.... of course the plot was stolen from Yojimbo but Yojimbo and Fistfull are two of my favorite movies...
Compared to "A few dollars more" and "good, bad, ugly" I thought Fistful had the most lean plot, while the sequels had the same spirit but too much fluff...
Drunk as you might expect, but these are my sober opinions nonetheless.
Metl
#1847 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/15 11:25:49
agree on the plot comment in comparison to few dollars more and the GB&U, but Yojimbo handled that aspect better I thought.
I just think the style is better developed in the later movies and in my eyes, they are better for it.
Also,
#1848 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.74] on 2007/04/15 18:19:13
the GB&U soundtrack rules the Universe, so on that bases alone, even if the movie was a three hour shot of a field of grass growing it would still be in the top ten great movies of all time.
Fortunately, it has some excellent character acting (hence the title ;)) for the viewer who may be tone deaf and can't enjoy the music.
It Does It Does
#1849 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/16 00:46:21
but I also think the soundtracks to the other two dollars films are also pretty impressive, and a bit underratd.
#1850 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/16 13:42:06
Planet of the Apes (1968) - charlton heston tries his best to derail the whole thing with an awful performance but Frank Shaffner's precise direction and the simple yet complex premise overcome his antics. The plotting requires more than a little suspension of disbelief but it's worth it because the script raises some interesting ideas, even if they're not explored as well as they could have been. The character of Dr Zaius is probably the most intriguing, the others feel a bit too one dimensional. There is some great imagery here, much more than just the famous end scene, and the score by Jerry Goldsmith is also pretty effective.
7.5/10
La Femme Infidele (1969) - I think this was remade recently as Unfaithful which I havent seen, but Claude Chabrol's original is a very stylishly made old fashioned suspense film in the vein of Hitchcock and Clouzot. The acting, writing, and direction are all first rate and the whole thing feels very economic without any dead space. There's actually nothing wrong with it but it does have a cold feel to it which keeps the viewer at somewhat of a distance.
7.5/10
Rocky - It isnt the movie that should have beaten out Taxi Driver, Network and All the President's Men but on its own it's still fairly impressive stuff. The first thing you notice is how well shot it is, it definitely has the right look for the setting of the movie. Next up on show is the impressive script, hard to believe it was written in 3 days by stallone, because most the major characters are excellently written. The acting is good too and the only thing that lets it down is the anticlimax fight at the end coupled with a very corny and badly executed final scene.
7.5/10
Calzone Cowboys
#1851 posted by R.P.G. [75.183.9.100] on 2007/04/17 06:31:28
Fistfull of Dollars
I should really rent those movies and watch them again. The only time I've seen them was when I was about 10 years old, and I don't really remember much about them except for Eastwood chomping on a cigar and shooting a revolver. Although I do remember being smitten by the music in For a Few Dollars More.
Drunk as you might expect, but these are my sober opinions nonetheless.
How was the party, metl? The raw beef at Musawa was... interesting. Afterwards we hit up a bar on Haight St, which turned out to be the second gay bar we went to last weekend. Incidentally, I'm forced to disagree with the notion that gay bars have cleaner bathrooms than other bars (at least the two I've been to). Anyway, it was cool meeting up with you, even though I didn't get into town until much later than expected.
RPG:
#1852 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/04/17 10:01:18
the party was a bunch of drunk thirty-somethings i didn't know (girlfriend's coworkers.) But they kept handing me drinks, which was my eventual undoing.
I like how my spelling is still perfect even when I can't string two thoughts together in a coherent sentence.
#1853 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/18 12:24:32
The Lives of Others - well made, well acted, generally well written german film about the period in east germany's history when the stasi operated to ensure that citizens didn’t participate or operate in "subversive" fashion. Rather than trying to tackle the issue by displaying the impact on the general population, it focuses on 3 characters in particular (a popular writer, his actress fiancee and the stasi agent who keeps tabs on their affairs) to bring out the state of mind that was prevalent at the time.
First time writer/director Florian Donnersmarck does a commendable job in all departments but at times gives away his lack of experience with some contrived plotting and functional, but non-imaginative, cinematography. His strengths are obviously more towards storytelling than the visual side of things, but this is still quite an impressive debut.
7.5/10
300 And Fight Club
#1854 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/04/18 12:39:50
So I finally saw 300, and I was wondering if anyone else noticed this: when the kid is beating up the other kid at the beginning, it appears to be a shot-for-shot clone of the scene where Ed Norton beats up Jared Leto in Fight Club. Anyone?
I Never Noticed
#1855 posted by DaZ [80.41.132.199] on 2007/04/18 14:30:42
I think you watched Fight Club too many times Metl :) Not that thats a bad thing!
#1856 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/20 15:53:57
The Motorcycle Diaries - As a portrait of the "why" behind the transition of Che Guevara from almost medical graduate to cuban revolutionary, it's fairly low level stuff. To be fair though, the movie does cover a period where it appears that Guevara himself hadnt worked that aspect out just yet, so its not something that could be readily communicated to an audience anyway. However, in the second half you can see the wheels turning, but its not an entirely convincing depiction.
As a road movie, it works a little better, mainly because the stunning backdrop allows ample oppurtunity for good photography. The acting is good, the direction is reasonable, and the script is decent even if it can never really escape the main pitfall of the road movie, the lack of a narrative and the feel of bunch of vignettes stuck together.
Still, I found it a good watch despite the issues although the effect on the small screen is probably not as effective.
7/10
If You Speak Spanish
#1857 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.247] on 2007/04/20 18:27:41
you might find this documentary of interest, much of it pulled from interviews with revolutionaires who knew him. No New Agey Hollywood sanitation that both old school Marxist and AntiCommunist find to be nauseating.
Che; Anatomia de un Mito
http://video.google.com/videoplay?...
Interestingly, I read that Redford was interested in producing Atlas Shrugged at one time. The man's brain cells must be in a constant state of war with one another. Fortunately, Randal Wallace, the BraveHeart screenwriter is on board to write it and Jolie will be playing Dagny Taggart.
#1858 posted by inertia [134.53.176.37] on 2007/04/21 02:09:40
atlas fucked
Headthump
#1859 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/21 02:52:34
no I dont, but mabe I'll pick up some after my trip to south america later in the year.
#1860 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/22 04:06:33
Rebel Without a Cause (1955) - extremely disappointed. James Dean is good, albeit heavily mannered, but the rest of this is severely dated, almost nonsensical and totally unconvincing.
Nicholas Ray tries his best with the material he has, but there is so much wrong with the script I dont know where to start. It's extremely heavy handed, contains a large number of caricatures, has some terribly hokey dialogue, and above all has such a simplified approach towards its themes that you wonder why they even tried to address them.
Ray has made some great films, but this is not one of them.
4.5/10
Red Dwarf
#1861 posted by Spirit [213.39.169.102] on 2007/04/22 10:48:07
I recently got into this series and I love it so much. The interesting english, the characters, the imaginative swear words. Very nice! I'm at S02E05 now.
#1862 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/22 16:55:33
Curse of the Golden Flower - Zhang Yimou's return to the wuxia genre is thankfully a much better effort than House of Flying Daggers and on par with Hero.
Supposedly China's most expensive film ever, it is indeed very very opulent, every shot showing where the money went. Yimou matches the opulence with an operatic greek tragedy and extravagant action, something which will not be everyone's cup of tea, but I found it to work quite well.
What makes it work is Gong Li, doing what only great actors can do in taking a nothing role and turning it into the most important part of the movie. Her performance helps the complicated and highly convoluted plot fit in with the environment of the film.
Yimou paces and builds beautifully, but falters at the end with a climax that is just too long and drawn out. Even so, this is still quality entertainment.
7/10
Red Dwarf
#1863 posted by starbuck [82.41.202.5] on 2007/04/23 10:20:28
just fucking great, I grew up with that stuff. Did you ever see the pilot for the american version of the show? Man did that suck... Lister was just your standard wholesome american lead character, Rimmer didn't even seem that annoying, Holly was played by Daphne from Frasier.
But er, keep watching the good stuff, I love series 5, some amazing episodes there, 'Gunmen of the Apocalypse', and 'Back to Reality' are absolute classics...
#1864 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/24 10:45:03
Zelig (1983) - I think woody allen's middle period from the late 70's to the late 80's resulted in some remarkable stuff. And this is another one of them. Spinal Tap is probably funnier, but Allen's attempt at the mockumentary genre is still nothing short of genius.
The mockumentary takes a look at the life and story of Leonard Zelig, a chameleon like man in the 1920-1930's who had the ability to change his appearance into that of the people surrounding him, and the reaction of the doctors, media and the general public to his ability.
Combining newsreel footage, fake "documentary" footage and present day "interviews" with real essayists and nobel prize winning writers, Allen's movie is a remarkable technical achievement. It is also brilliantly written, playing it straight all the way, even when the situations are anything but. There is more creativity and talent on display here than in all of Allen's films of the last 10-15 years.
8/10
#1865 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/25 11:49:33
Blood Diamond - As is usual with Edward Zwick movies, this is too long and has an uncomfortable mix of message movie and action adventure, with the message part being very heavy handed and dodgily handled at best.
What it has going for it is that it works pretty well when it sticks to being a blockbuster action movie and also Leonardo Di Caprio's outstanding performance. Di Caprio probably has the best written character, albeit with a requisite redemptive character arc, and he singlehandedly gets the movie through all the dodgy bits. Djimon Hounsou and Jennifer Connelly do their best but are limited by their stock standard one dimensional charcaters.
Zwick seems most comfortable with the action scenes, which are well choreographed and shot, rather than with the effects and consequences of a civil war on an entire poprulation, but this is far from the disaster of The Last Samurai.
6.5/10
Hollywood Doesn't Seem
#1866 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.197] on 2007/04/25 18:37:43
to know what to do with African characters. I found myself comparing this treatment with the Mr Ecko story arc from last season in Lost because of its fresh and somewhat twisted approach to standard African themes, ie. warlords, gun/drug running, and an impotent(or vital depending on the viewpoint of the narrative) church. I was curious what you thought of this, Nitin, given your review of the middle episode of season 2 ranked them a bit lower than the rest you may have different take.
Mr Eko
#1867 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/26 00:42:10
was by far the most interesting and well written character in season 2. So I think we are in agreement over that :)
Last Night...
#1868 posted by distrans [149.144.189.66] on 2007/04/27 06:22:26
...finally got around to viewing the Southpark WoW send up. What a hoot!
This was followed by a documentary I'd recorded on virtual gold mining... selling WoW gold for actual currency. Very interesting.
Then I stuffed up my night by watching Eragon. Shite! Even four vodka tonics under my belt couldn't save this poorly edited, atrociously acted, cliche ridden, two dimensional pile of...
#1869 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/04/30 10:51:26
Bullitt (1968) - pretty good thriller/action film which is reasonably well written and directed and has Steve McQueen defining screen presence. It drags a bit, sometimes unnecssarily so, and none of the other characters are that interesting, but McQueen is magnetic and the action scenes, including the famous car chase, are good.
7/10
Doctor Zhivago (1965) - There's some frequent bad acting and bad dialogue, sometimes both within the same scene, but David Lean's storytelling skills and imperious direction along with Maurice Jarre's excellent score make up for the shortcomings on most occasions. The last 30 min or so don’t work for me as well as the rest of the movie but this is great stuff. Despite the long running time, it is very economical in its pacing and there's not much dead space. In a completely different league to most recent movies along similar lines.
8/10
In the Bedroom (2001) - generally well made and well written, and with phenomenal acting by all involved, this slow burn drama about the effect of a tragedy on a family is very interesting. There are flaws, the slow pacing is not a problem by itself but combined with the narrative stopping dead after a certain event in the film, it does become somewhat of an issue.
Todd Field displays an admirable restraint, never really letting this become the over the top melodrama that it could have become. But it's the perfromances that keep it going, tom wilkinson, sissy spacek, nick stahl and marisa tomei all putting in excellent work.
7/10
Last Year at Marienbad (1961) - Definitely a movie that many people will hate with a passion, Alain Resnais' out and out surrealist arthouse film is probably the most pretentious, indulgent, cold, distant and near incomprehensible thing I have ever seen. It makes David Lynch look like a straightforward storyteller. His previous movie, the great Hiroshima Mon Amour, displayed some of the same characterisitics and dealt with the same themes of memory but it was not as cold, distant or obscure and was much better for it.
The plot, if you can call it that as there is no temporal or spatial connection established between any of the scenes, revolves around the repetition of a series of events at a chateau between a man, a woman and another man. Anything more than that will be differently interpreted by everyone.
I have to say that despite all the negatives, I did find it fascinating to an extent mainly because Resnais's direction gives the impression that its made by someone who knows exactly what they are doing rather than by someone who is making it up as they go along. And I think I managed to piece enough of it together to get an idea of what he was going for.
6.5-7/10
#1870 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/01 11:35:59
Eyes without a Face (1959) - classily made french film about a surgeon who abducts and operates on young women in order to try and restore the disfigured face of his daughter, who is forced to wear a mask in the meantime.
It doesnt go for the gore or exploitation angle, but is instead more of a gothic psychological thriller/drama with interesting characters, reasonably good acting and impressive direction.
There are some brilliant moments, especially when the daughter is on screen, but I did find that when the movie focuses on other things apart from the daughter, it isnt as involving.
7/10
The Man who shot Liberty Valance (1962) - one of the better films from John Ford that I have seen, although it still suffers from forced sentimentality and obtrusive and annoying comedy like his other movies.
James Stewart plays a senator in the american west who is known in history by the movie title and upon a revisit to the town where it all took place, he recounts his version of the story to a newspaper editor.
When it's not going along the comedy and sentimentality route, it is a pretty impressive western with James Stewart, John Wayne and Vera Miles all in top form.
6.5/10
Broadway Danny Rose (1984) - Not vintage Woody Allen, but it still has its moments thanks to Allen's skill as a writer.
He plays Danny Rose, a theatrical manager of some really bad acts who gets involved in all sorts of trouble when he goes on an errand for one of his more famous acts.
It starts off well enough, with Mia Farrow almost unrecognisable as a bimbo, but like some of his more recent output, the Allen schtick is a bit too overdone, overwhelming and annoying.
Still, worth a wach for some moments of sheer genius and hilarity.
6.5/10
Sunshine
#1871 posted by starbuck [77.97.207.155] on 2007/05/01 19:40:46
Can't really be bothered with a big review, but I was really shocked with how impressive it looked, especially for a british film (a high budget one at that)... it has a really classy style of scifi technology which reminded me of 2001, and the lighting and the general look and colour is really impressive.
I liked the way the scope is pretty narrow, they never really tell you anything about the characters before you see them in the few days in which the movie takes place.
Overall it holds your attention quite well for a while, but as Text_Fish said in his review earlier it all goes to shit quite unexplicably later on. It seems like the guys at Fox turned up and said NO NO NO we need a BAD GUY and some FIGHTING and space danger and MONSTERS and you better add it the next 20 minutes or I'm gonna throw my tequila in your face. But it's worth seeing anyway, more power to the british film industry.
Sunshine
#1872 posted by Bal [90.2.34.13] on 2007/05/01 21:06:37
Agreed, silly premise and scientific liberties aside, the first half of the film was quite good, too bad it kind of became a stupid horror movie towards the end. =\
Bullitt
#1873 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2007/05/02 01:09:48
Nitin's review reminded me... i happened to sit through "Dukes of Hazzard" recently (don't bother,) and I noticed that that movie had a Charger vs. Mustang chase... I wonder if the choice of Mustang was inspired by Bullitt. (I have read that the original choice of the Charger in the TV show was due to Bullitt.)
Gonna Check This Out
#1874 posted by pope [154.20.171.226] on 2007/05/02 08:40:07
hopefully during this event.
http://www.viff.org/tixSYS/vifc/fi...
Oh I Have Heard Crazy Shit About Inland Empire
#1875 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/02 10:56:52
but then again what do you expect from Mr Lynch?
pope, please post your thoughts if you see it.
Last night I watched Requiem for a Dream and was a little disappointed given how much I'd heard about it.
It's a definite case of style over substance and I found Darren Aronofsky's take on addiction a suprisingly empty film beneath all the flashiness.
Aronofsky employs every trick in the book, and a thousand others that arent, to hide the lack of depth in his material, but it's not quite enough. What does give it power though is the extraordinary performance by Ellen Burstyn and an amazing score by the Kronos quartet. Decent, but I didn’t find it to be any more than that.
6.5-7/10
Nitin
#1876 posted by starbuck [129.215.25.130] on 2007/05/02 17:45:57
did you ever see the fountain? I agree with you on the lack of substance in Requiem for a dream, but the fountain baffled me so much that i couldn't possibly comment on whether it had any depth at all or it was just style over substance taken to a whole new extreme. What the hell happened?
Starbuck
#1877 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/03 11:25:24
i'm getting it this month, so I'll post when I see it.
More Impotantly
#1878 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/03 11:26:02
has anyone seen spidey3 yet? spidey 2 rocked and I hope this is of a similar level.
Spidey3
#1879 posted by Kell [77.97.238.35] on 2007/05/03 13:47:54
Would like to. I did enjoy 2 a lot. I think it really got the 'comic book villains are great yet tortured people' thing down in a way the batman movies basically crapped out of. And the central theme about the ordinary versus the heroic - the original premise of the spiderman character - was played out seriously enough to inspire thought and feeling, but not so it plodded into pomposity
And the almost-silent shot of spidey swinging across frame in front of the lit up empire state is the most tactful response to 9/11 I've ever seen.
The combination of villains in 3 is interesting. Sandy bloke I really don't know much about. AFAIR he's a rather secondary henchman type thug. Hope I'm wrong.
The conclusion of the goblin arc - nicely tying the three movies together - could be dramatic or could just turn into angsty rubbish.
The black costume, however, interests me for a more particular reason. It was a story arc concluded in the only Marvel comic I actually ever bought as a kid. I wasn't really as interested in spidey as the other strip in the comic, but it's odd to see it in a movie now, compared to all the other pop culture icons that have been mercilessly cinematised over recent years which I didn't give a shit about the first time round.
#1880 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/03 14:13:58
kell,
exactly. Every scene felt like a comic book, which I think is very hard to do, from the speeches to the fight scenes to the humour.
Although I like Batman Begins just as much, its almost for the exact opposite reasons. But those two by far are top of the comic book pil for me.
#1881 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/05 03:01:12
Science of Sleep - I personally regard Eternal Sunhine as one of the best movies of the last decade and its obvious while watching this that Charlie Kaufman was a major contributor to making that what it was.
Michael Gondry indulges in some impressive off the cuff visuals, and he gets a committed and goofy perfromance out of Gael Garcia Bernal but it felt too much like someone knowing what they wanted to but not knowing how to do it.
Frequently hilarious, but as a whole, it didnt quite work.
6.5/10
Science Of Sleep...
#1882 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2007/05/05 03:31:46
One of the things I liked about it, besides the humor and imaginitiveness of it, was the way the "tone" of the movie kept changing. Especially near the end of the movie, it seemed to shift smoothly from moment to moment between a the tone of a comedy about a quirky guy, to the tone of a drama about a mentally unstable guy.
The treatment of dreams were well executed, I thought. It's hard to put something on the screen and not have the clarity of the photographic image work against the goal of presenting a dream world full of symbols instead of objects. But I think this movie succeed in that regard. Also in terms of the constantly shifting narrative of dreams, where elements, locations, and people persist even as the underlying story of the dream reforms itself moment to moment, I thought the movie captured that feeling well.
So in conclusion, I guess the "feel" of the movie worked for me, even if the execution faltered in other ways.
Let's Go To Prison
#1883 posted by megaman [84.63.50.132] on 2007/05/05 16:13:45
Normally these type of movies aren't my cup of tea, but this one is pretty charming and funny. Nice to watch while you're sitting at the pc and doing stuff. shake your body!
6/10
#1884 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/07 10:57:34
The Haunting (1963) - Decent old fashioned horror movie but some dodgy acting and scripting lets it down somewhat. The impressive cinematography and atmosphere result in some nice eerie moments later on and a couple of the characterisations are very interesting. In the end though, it does feel like a similar but inferior version of The Innocents.
6.5/10
Brute Force (1949) - Jules Dassin is one of the forgotten great directors and this is another quality film from him. A pessimistic and bleak prison drama with Burt Lancaster and Hume Cronyn as standouts, it’s a very good example of how Dassin turned predictable, cliched material into genuinely involving stuff. Helped along by the excellent cinematography and a good, if overwritten, script by Richard Brooks, Dassin builds to a tight climax that is probably better than the whole season of Prison Break. It's slightly let down by some unnecessary flashbacks, which very much come across as something the studio got involved in, but overall it's on the same level as Dassin's other movies from the same period.
7.5/10
#1885 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/09 11:47:30
Walkabout (1971) - Nicolas Roeg's debut has the tagline "Probably the most different movie you will ever see". That's an apt description but it is also probably the best australian movie not made by an Australian. It's not for everyone, a lot of people will most likely find the lack of any plot, narrative or resolution a big hurdle. But if you're open to something different and don’t mind the lack of narrative, it's quite a worthwhile watch.
Its basically about the journey of two british children lost in the outback and their attempts to get back to civilization with the help of a young aborigine boy on his Walkabout (the aboriginal rite of passage that a young boy takes before entering manhood). Roeg uses that to create an interesting portrait of the differences between civilizations, the ability of youth to overcome those differences but not really understand them, and the feeling of being 'lost' no matter where you are. Its mainly a very visual film, with little or no dialogue, Roeg using his trademark editing technique to good effect. Its not on the same level as Don’t Look Now, as that was a lot more focused, but it has the same disctinct style.
7/10
^
#1886 posted by starbuck [82.41.25.152] on 2007/05/09 19:15:11
Good review, yes there is a real sense of being lost in Walkabout, it's all a bit bleak in a way.
But more importantly jenny agutter is a total hottie, go see it.
She Sure Is
#1887 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/10 11:43:03
Blinkende Lygter
#1888 posted by Spirit [80.171.51.49] on 2007/05/10 22:49:55
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt023602...
If you like De gr&#248;nne slagtere (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt03424... ) then you will also like this. I watched it danish with english subtitles, was ok. The actors are so great and the humor really dark.
Hmmm...
#1889 posted by distrans [149.144.189.66] on 2007/05/11 07:14:21
...showing my age, but I saw Walkabout during it's original release period (regional). My first real movie experience. Two scenes are still clear in my mind. Of course I didn't realise what a hottie Jenny Agutter was at that stage, that realisation didn't come till Logan's Run :o) Must revisit Walkabout, thanks for reminding me nitin.
Distrans
#1890 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/11 12:32:09
out of interest, which ones ?
K...
#1891 posted by distrans [121.44.1.131] on 2007/05/12 05:29:34
The meeting between Gulpilil and the kids, I thought it was funny but I couldn't say why back then. The final vignette, it made me sad but again I couldn't articulate why back then.
#1892 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/14 11:36:17
Talk to Her - its not quite the flat out masterpiece that All about my Mother was, but this is still a very impressive movie from the unpredictable and fresh Pedro Almodovar. He's probably one of the few directors working today that can take a story into territory you don’t see coming.
Anyway, this one is about 2 men who share a friendship whilst their lovers are in a coma at a hospital and although I don’t quite like where it ended up at the finish, it's well acted, excellently written and extremely well made. It has the usual Almodovar blend of quirky and humorus but awkward and uncomfortable situations with eccentric but connectable characters.
And the film within a film is pure gold.
7.5/10
#1893 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/18 09:27:54
The Dreamers (2003) - Bernardo Bertolucci is undoubtedly a very talented filmmaker, but this is a pretty good example that talent alone doesnt result in a good movie.
Bertolucci's tale of a young american film buff in france who makes friends with a local brother and sister that share his love for classic films, all set against the backdrop of the student riots of 1968, is beautifully shot, skilfully made and is conceptually very interesting.
But while the first 30 mins or so is a great nostalgic look at the period, intercut fabulously with scenes from classic french new wave films, the rest of it dissolves into a frank, uninhibited, but more importantly, dull dissection of sex and politics.
Each charcater represents a type rather than an individual and whilst that allow bertolucci to be very self-reflexive, it also makes the whole thing quite heavy handed.
Pity, because done correctly, this could have been a great film.
On the plus side, the extremely good looking Eva Green spends plenty of time naked.
5/10
The Naked City (1948) - Jules Dassin's police procedural/noir might seem old hat given how many times it has been imitated but the tight direction and extremely well done location photography still raise it far above most other attempts in the genre. An inconsistent voiceover is the only real misfire as everything else clicks together like clockwork.
7.5/10
A Reviewer After My Heart
#1894 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.95] on 2007/05/18 17:53:08
On the plus side, the extremely good looking Eva Green spends plenty of time naked.
She is the beaut. I wonder if you noticed in Casino Royale when she smiled sometimes her face would get convoluted and her upper mouth would become long, thin and even lizard like. Not exactly attractive in those instances.
I'm willing to bet as a first rate actress she has practiced this expression to perfection in order to show a vulnerable side her good looks would otherwise hide.
#1895 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/26 02:40:02
Underworld : Evolution - better than the first, but that wasnt exactly hard. 1 maybe 2 decent action scenes and the rest was dull and uninteresting exposition.
5/10
V For Vendetta (even Though It Was Covered Here Already)
#1896 posted by Spirit [80.171.29.47] on 2007/05/27 00:35:37
Ugh. I knew nothing about it before watching. I felt Eve rather unconvincing (not badly played but badly written/characterized/introduced). She seemed to be supposed "one of the mass" in the beginning and hard to break to see the "truth" if I understood it correctly. Well, the movie totally fails on that. Maybe because it is too easy to see-through, dunno.
I also really disliked the cheap "flashbacks" and "omg important memory, turn the music loud and fade in/out to black". Some parts were really cool for sure.
5/10 from me. Left me highly unsatisfied and disappointed. It could have been so much better I think.
V For Vendetta
#1897 posted by inertia [24.164.73.173] on 2007/05/27 02:39:02
AFAIR, the author of the original comic was not pleased with how the makers of the movie trivialized the motives of V. In the comics, he's got revenge on his mind but also the ideal of anarchy -- in the movie he's more of this cold-blooded killer, who also has a heart, and isn't that so touching?
#1898 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/27 04:09:29
Stray Dog (1949) - not as well remembered as some of Akira Kurosawa's other movies, this is still a very very good watch.
Toshiro Mifune plays a policeman in post war Japan who is disgraced and ashamed after he loses his gun and spends the rest of the movie looking for it (the basic outline of this plot is used by Paul Thomas Anderson as one of his Magnolia segments).
This simple plot is used as a starting point for Kurosawa to take an in depth look at post war Tokyo, but never to the extent that it overshadows the main story.
Its occasionally poorly paced and for once Mifune seems out of place playing a timid character, but overall this is well written, full of many interesting characters and made with a very assured hand.
7.5/10
The Ninth Gate (1999) - Roman Polanski is well past his 70's heyday and this is never in the same league as either Rosemary's Baby or The Tenant, but his command of atmosphere is not lost and this on its own lifts this silly but fun occult thriller into above average territory.
Johnny Depp is ok as a book detective who authenticates old, rare books for a fee, and gets involved with a book that was supposedly written by the devil himself. From there on, it becomes a well made gothic mystery, but one which never quite pays off in a satisfactory manner with an ending that is clever and makes sense, but is also predictable and disappointing.
6/10
Film.
#1899 posted by Shambler [82.38.196.70] on 2007/05/27 17:10:26
Sunshine - the only film of note I've watched recently. I tend to agree with the above comments.
Nice style, decent characters, good tension initially, very stylish outside of the ship.
Weak story, degenerating plot, profoundly unconvincing technology.
That's all.
Nitin
#1900 posted by Lunaran [76.201.159.33] on 2007/05/27 20:15:44
Where do you get all these old movies? Are they all just right there on netflix dvd or are you regularly breaking into a secret cinemavault?
Hehe
#1901 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/28 09:13:17
yeah, most of them are available via netflix (around 80%). Some of the foreign stuff might occasionally not be there, but there's a video store near my house that offers foreign dvds for rent.
#1902 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/29 11:06:14
Twin Peaks Season 2 - hmm, the first 10 epsiodes or so are of the same quality as season 1 and although I had worked out the killer in advance, the episode in which he is revealed (to us) is still great.
It definitely degenerates after that, almost not knowing where to go after the solving of laura palmer's murder and the side stories which were interesting as side stories become boring main stories. I've read that david lynch said that he never intended to reveal the killer and the show was meant to be more about the town. Don’t know if that approach would have avoided the problems present in the second season anyway, because after a while that would still mean the side stories would have eventually become the main stories anyway.
It sort of gets back on track in the last 4-5 episodes, although still below the level of the first half of this and the prior season. The finale, however, is great stuff. From the moment agent cooper steps into the black lodge, it is brilliant. Talk about being able to put your subconscious on the screen, you could literally feel that place and that's not something that is easy to do.
6.5/10
Marie Antoinette - it's been criticised a lot for being blatantly historically inaccurate and for not being serious enough, but it's pretty obvious after the first five minutes that that was never the point. But what exactly was the point of Sofia Coppola's new film is something that is unanswered even after the credits roll. For a two hour movie, there's not a whole lot going on here, both plot wise and substance wise. It meanders along for most of its running time and then rushes its last half hour as it goes into biography mode.
It is, however, possibly the best shot film of the last five years. Every scene is impeccably lit and composed and some of them could be framed and hung from a wall. So even when it doesn’t offer much content wise, it is never boring to look at.
5.5/10
#1903 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/05/30 08:43:18
Purple Rose of cairo (1984) - just what was woody allen on in the 70's/80's and can he please get back on it? I think it falls slightly short of his very best, it's not quite sharp enough for that, but its still an exteremely clever and fresh piece of writing that is well performed by Jeff Daniels and the very talented Mia Farrow.
This one's about an unhappy woman in depression era new jersey who goes to the cinema to escape her real life. She becomes particularly enamoured with one movie, the purple rose of cairo, and starts to watch it repeatedly. During a screening one of the characters, who notices her repeated presence, comes out of the screen and into the real world to spend some time with her.
What follows is borderline genius as the remainder of the movie cast get stuck and become unable to progress the movie's plot with a character missing, the real actor who portrays the missing character is held responsible for his creation, and the escaped character struggles to overcome his pre-written characteristics and celluloid experiences when interacting with the real world.
7.5/10
#1904 posted by nitin [60.224.123.3] on 2007/06/02 03:30:11
The Page Turner (2006) - nice little french pschological drama that, although predictable in its outcome, is well made and acted.
Deborah Francois plays a cold, disenchanted woman who in her youth was an aspiring pianist whose aspirations were cut short inadvertently by a famous pianist who judged one of her performances. The majority of the film is about how Francois' character works her way into the judge's life a decade or so later, intent on ruining it.
Like I said, its been done before and the outcome is fairly predictable, but its facinating to see how she goes about it in a calm and calcualted fashion, but always with a creepy sense of being unhinged. Also, the other thing going for it is that Denis Dercourt avoids the hollywood path in outlining every bit of detail and leaves quite a bit of the (irrrelevant) mechanics upto the viewer to determine.
Not for everyone, as the sheer unlikeability of the main character will distance some people, but it’s a decent movie that's worth a watch.
7/10
Little Miss Sunshine - its not terrible, but I find it absolutely staggering that this was a best picture contender. Poorly written, poorly executed and the shooting style is virtually identical to your run of the mill reguar hollywood movie.
The "drama" has so little weight that it may as well be non-existent, the "comedy" ranges from ok to just plain awful. And the ending had me laughing for the wrong reasons. That's up there with Clerks 2 as some of the stupidest last 20 min in a film.
On the plus side, some of the acting is pretty good, Greg Kinnear and the little girl doing much more than their one dimensional roles would have otherwise allowed.
5.5/10
Nitin
#1905 posted by bambuz [213.169.7.161] on 2007/06/03 21:54:59
I find I agree with you quite a lot on many movies I've seen. (eternal sunshine of the spotless mind, little miss sunshine for late examples that spring to mind.)
Maybe I should pick up that B&W french stuff if you like it so much.
Bambuz
#1906 posted by nitin [58.161.96.20] on 2007/06/05 10:39:00
it takes a bit of getting used to for te old french style, especially if you havent seen anythign like it before, and there's just as much cra int hat era as any other, but the good stuff is well worth tracking down.
#1907 posted by nitin [58.161.96.92] on 2007/06/07 11:10:01
The Last Metro (1980) - Francois Truffaut is a very hit and miss director for me, but what elevates him into the pantheon of great directors is that when he gets it right, the result is usually very close to magic. Apart from a non-ending, this is excellent stuff that's very hard to fault.
Set in 40's occupied France, it focuses on the wife of a banned jewish theatre director who is hiding him in the theatre cellar even though the whole country believes him to have skipped the country. It looks at the strain on the wife as she essentially leads a double life trying to manage the situation and the impact of the arrival of a mysterious new actor into the theatre troupe.
Catheine Deneuve is outstanding in the main role and while she gets good support from the rest of the cast, she is the one to watch. Truffaut effortlessly weaves his story strands together and its only at the end, when he doesn’t quite know how and when to finish, that the movie falters.
7.5/10
#1908 posted by nitin [58.161.98.158] on 2007/06/10 07:20:54
On Dangerous Ground (1952) - Nicholas Ray's expressionistic film noir is a film of two distinct halves, the first being a Taxi Driver style roadside look at policework, the second being a more conventional thriller set amongst a small town.
Robert Ryan plays a cop disillusioned with the world and everyone in it till he meets Ida Lupino's blind girl who tries to bring him back from the point of oblivion. It's standard pulpy stuff but acted pretty well by the two leads and directed with so much flair and skill by Ray that he almost manages to convincingly pull off the very obvious studio enforced ending.
7/10
Only Angels Have Wings (1939) - It's a big call, but I think this is possibly Howard Hawks' greatest film, maybe even better than The Big Sleep. This is pretty much perfect stuff that's hard to fault about a group of pilots in a small port in South America whose job is to deliver mail over dangerous and foggy mountainous territory.
Cary Grant and Jean Arthur lead a pitch perfect ensemble cast that eats up every line of the terrificly plotted and written script and Hawks is in control of every scene. One of the great ones that fits in everything the modern blockbuster tries to encompass (action, comedy and drama) but usually fails at doing.
9/10
Confession of Pain (2006) - The reuniting of the team behind Infernal Affairs is a perfect example of how a decent plotline ands story can be absolutely butchered by a hopeless script and trite direction. The narrative is an absolute mess and the way it's edited only makes it messier and sillier.
Tony Leung and Takeshi Kaneshiro try their best as two friends who go about dealing with past tragedies in different ways, but their fine acting cant raise this into anything that's even remotely suspenseful or engaging.
4/10
While Nitin Was Busy Seeing Good Films
#1909 posted by starbuck [82.33.107.75] on 2007/06/12 12:03:30
I saw Oceans Thirteen. I didn't mean to, honest.
Starbuck
#1910 posted by nitin [58.161.98.127] on 2007/06/13 11:57:46
it surely couldnt have been worse than Twelve?
Saw a few more :
Entourage Season 3 Part 1, - more of the same, but this time around it's a bit more uneven with one or two absolutely terrible episodes.
The rest is the usual above average, entertaining, well made but disposable fluff. Pity, because every now and then such as the episode(s) with the Bob Ryan character, it reaches a higher level.
6.5/10
La Strada (1954) - well made, semi-surreal fiilm by Fellini that, although being a good movie, will be different for each viewer depending on how much they like Giulitta Masina's performance as the chilidsh and impish Gelsomina.
Her character is sold early in the movie to Anthony quinn's Zampano, a brutish travelling entertainer who mistreats Gelsomina whenever he gets the opportunity. Masina's performance is effective at milking her character's circumstances for viewer sympathy, but personally I also found it to be sometimes annoying and a bit too mannered and calculated.
But Quinn's performance in a mostly one dimensional role is excellent and Fellini directs with a sure hand, something which I think is missing from his later stuff.
7/10
Jane Eyre (1946) - havent read the book, have no intention to, and so the comments here are a reflection on just the movie rather than a movie-book comparsion.
The only reason I watched this is because its widely rumoured to have been directed by an uncredited Orson Welles. Rumour or fact, what is obvious from the opening shots is that it has been highly influenced by Welles which is a good thing because I personally didnt care much for the plot.
Joan Fontaine doesnt really help, playing her character as a variation on Rebecca, but as soon as Welles enters the movie about a third of the way through, it becomes exteremely watchable (although the first 10-15 min with a younger Jane Eyre are also very good). Welles is so good as the Duke of Rochester that you hang off his every word, regardless of whether anyone else is talking with him or not.
Its also beautifully shot with tremendous gothic imagery, and only the slightly rushed and unsatisfying ending holds it back from being a good film on the whole.
6.5/10
#1911 posted by nitin [58.161.96.165] on 2007/06/15 10:51:24
The Good German
Just what was Steven Soderbergh thinking? If you are going to make a movie that pays more than homage to not one but two of the great cinematic classics in Casablanca and The Third Man you better make sure that you have both the knowhow to shoot in b&w and also some idea as to what made those movies tick.
Unfortunately he shows neither. Whilst he mimics the camerawork and composition of the period well, he has no idea how to light a b&w film resulting in nearly every scene looking overexposed with way too much contrast. There's no excuse for this, especially considering George Clooney was at hand whose Good Night and Good Luck is a perfectly shot b&w film.
As for the movie itself, what made Casablanca and the Third Man classics were scripts with strong characters who had great dialogue to work with. In contrast, all the characters in this film are peripheral to the machinations of the plot. On top of that, Tobery Maguire in a crucial role is badly miscast. Cate Blanchett fares better with her Marelene Dietrich impersonation, although it is a bit too inconsistent. George Clooney struggles to channel some sort of mixture of Cary Grant and Humphrey Bogart and ends up with a performance that's completely in the wrong tone.
There's many references to the great dialogue of both Casablanca and The Third Man, but never actually a genuine piece of memorable dialogue. Which is a ll a pity, because I think the story and plot had great potential if handled correctly.
A big wasted opportunity.
5/10
#1912 posted by nitin [58.161.99.58] on 2007/06/16 06:34:52
The Elephant Man (1980) - whoever had the idea of having David Lynch make this movie was a genius. This could have been your run of the mill, oversentimental oscar bait movie in the hands of most people, but Lynch turns it into a pure masterpiece.
This is flawless stuff really (although the 'romeo and juliet' scene didnt work for me), and I think its Lynch's greatest movie, even better than the great Blue Velvet and Mulholland drive.
The style is brilliant, everything from the very intricate sound design to Freddie Francis' extraordinary cinematography (which is perhaps even better than his work on The Innocents) to the incoporation of the signature Lynch surrealism is pitch perfect.
As for the rest, its a beautifully restrained piece of storytelling with a well written script that is brought to life by some terriic acting from almost everyone that appears on screen and operates on many levels.
9.5/10
There's A Modern British Version
#1913 posted by bambuz [213.169.31.40] on 2007/06/18 17:05:53
of Jane Eyre that aired here on tv in three parts lately. Pretty good. I talked about the social restrictions of the age a lot with my girlfriend and how they were the basis of the plot.
It probably is a lot harder to understand everything nowadays.
Video Game Movies
#1914 posted by metlslime [204.15.3.5] on 2007/06/18 20:40:00
So... for some reason I had nothing better to do on saturday but watch Resident Evil and Alone in the Dark back-to-back on TV. Some observations:
It's suprising how similar these two movies' basic elements are. Humanoid zombies, check. Larger, fast-moving "Alien"-type monsters, check. Is the underground complex somehow attached to an old mansion/orphanage via a tunnel? Check. Does the movie end with the entire fictional city being overrun/evacuated? Check.
Second, the basic stupidity of making a "cinematic" game into a movie. The thing that makes these games feel so cinematic, which is a good thing for the game, is the heavy use of familiar movie cliches from the appropriate genre. But the movie based on this game is going to be a movie based on a game based on a bunch of movie cliches. So now the movie has both the cliches of a video game, plus the cliches of an entire genre of movies.
On the plus side, it would be pretty easy to make a game based on either of these movies.
Hehe
#1915 posted by nitin [58.161.96.50] on 2007/06/19 12:00:19
metl,
you're not hanging out for the new Far Cry or Diablo movies then?
I saw Happy Together (1995) recently. Now I'm a big fan of In the Mood for Love and 2046, but all of Wong Kar Wai's earlier stuff only impresses me in bis, and usually on the whole not at all.
This is the same, there's a few interesting bits in this movie about the ups and downs of a gay asian couple in Argentina, mainly due to the excellent acting of Leslie Cheung and Tony Leung, but on the whole the bleak, meandering and aimless nature of it didnt do a whole lot for me.
5/10
Lollertoaster.
#1916 posted by R.P.G. [75.183.9.100] on 2007/06/21 05:06:27
On the plus side, it would be pretty easy to make a game based on either of these movies.
With some lolmalade.
#1917 posted by nitin [58.161.96.50] on 2007/06/23 02:59:37
Cars - I have to say that given the subject matter, the uninspired trailer and the lukewarm reception upon release, this was probably the pixar film I was least interested in seeing.
Turns out there was never any cause for concern, the movie just adding to pixar's ever growing list of quality films.
The opening scenes feature some stunning use of animation, showing just why Pixar is top of the heap when it comes to this sort of stuff. None of the other (computer) animation studios ever make this good use of their medium. And the cars in this movie have more character than all of the cameos in the recent Shrek movies combined.
The ending's a slight letdown, it was always going to be predictable, but I thought the execution was slightly lacking.
Still, probably on par with Monsters Inc, better than Bug's Life and Finding Nemo and not quite as great as either of The Toy Storys or the Incredibles.
8/10
Cars...
#1918 posted by Bal [81.249.97.132] on 2007/06/23 07:32:49
I thought plot wise it was one of the weakest Pixar films, everything was so cliché, could pretty much guess the whole story after 10 minutes. From a visual and technical point of view it's brilliant though.
Incredibles is still #1 Pixar film for me.
Really looking forward to Ratatouille though, and the one after that looks interesting (and I'm not only saying that cause the protagonist is a cute little robot =D ).
Bal
#1919 posted by nitin [58.161.96.50] on 2007/06/23 07:57:47
it was definitely predictable, but I thougt it was still very well executed. Then again, I dont mind cliches as long as they're done well.
#1920 posted by nitin [58.161.96.50] on 2007/06/24 10:32:13
Holiday (1938) - very similar to George Cukor's later The Philadelphia Story, also with Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn, and my reaction to it was about the same. Its an entertaining, predictable comedy-drama but nothing more.
Cary Grant plays Cary Grant but is still very good as a free thinking middle class man bethrothed to a high society millionaire's daughter. Katherine Hepburn plays Katherine Hepburn, but is suprisingly watchable (except in her 'big' scenes where she hams it up quite a lot) in the role of the elderly sister who is the "black sheep of the family".
The plot might be predictable all the way from the first scene to the last but the script is sharp in its dialogue and the whole thing is neaty executed.
6.5/10
Flags of Our Fathers - reasonably decent war movie from Clint Eastwood, although it struggles to distinguish itself from better films that did the same thing, and resorts to oversentimentality at the end to get its emotional point across.
Still, it has some very good acting from Adam Beach who plays one of the men caught up in the flag hero saga of the Battle of Iwo Jima. Most the scenes with him are excellent and get across the point much better than some of the more heavy handed stuff that follows.
7/10
Forbidden Games (1952) - Rene Clement's heart breakingly tragic masterpiece really does deserve more recognition than it gets. His movie about a 6 yr old french girl that is orphaned whilst fleeing a city with her parents during WWII, and taken in by a peasant family with whom she forms a strong bond is deceptively simple but very strong in its impact.
Part of its strength lies in the perfect performances of the children, but the majority of its impact is derived from the fact that it never tries to create emotion, but simply observe it.
The last 20 min or so do feel a bit rushed, but it all leads to a very memorable ending that is perfectly executed.
8/10
Starbuck
#1921 posted by nitin [58.161.96.50] on 2007/06/24 16:33:23
finished The Fountain.
comments later, but you had some questions? What specifically were you wondering?
Gonna See 1408 On Thursday
#1922 posted by R.P.G. [75.183.9.100] on 2007/06/27 05:34:27
/me crosses fingers
1408
#1923 posted by ionous [70.22.128.71] on 2007/06/27 13:52:35
A great short story it made. A reasonable move it coud make, with quality acting and no pseudo-scares.
#1924 posted by nitin [58.161.96.157] on 2007/06/28 11:50:13
Rome Season 1 - bit disappointing because they could have done better with the material, but overall it's still quite a decent show, just a bit below HBO's recent high standards. There's probably 6 very good-excellent episodes and the remaining six are fairly average, including the very flat final episode which really should have been so much better.
The production values are very high for tv and so what you get is a beautiful looking show with great attention to detail, but the scripts and acting are not always up to the task. Although this season of the show looks at a fictionalised version of the events surrounding the rise and fall of Julis Caesar, its main focus is a semi-soap opera of two roman soliders and their families. I found the scripting and acting for this part of the show to really struggle and only when the show allows Ciaran Hinds to take centre stage as Caesar, and gives him material to work with, does it really come to life. There's also a lot of gratituity under the umbrella of "realism", but I cant really say it bothered me very much even though it was quite noticeable.
7/10
Review Request
#1925 posted by scar3crow [151.141.78.104] on 2007/06/28 22:42:51
nitin - Jack Ketchum's The Girl Next Door is apparently quite good. Don't know if its up your alley, but I like your reviews so... Interested in your take.
Scarecrow
#1926 posted by nitin [58.161.96.157] on 2007/06/29 12:34:41
there's two, the one with ellen page and catherine keener :
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt080294...
and the more unknown one :
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt080294...
you're right in assuming it's probably not up my alley but I'd probably still be interested in the first one, if it ever makes its way to Oz anytime soon. Low budget indie stuff comes and goes in a flash usually.
Oh Almost Forgot
#1927 posted by nitin [58.161.96.157] on 2007/06/29 12:37:46
The Fountain - It's definitely a very ambitious effort from Darren Aronofsky, who aims for a science fiction film in the same vein as 2001 and Solaris. But, unlike those movies, this has a fairly simple concept (death is ok) underneath the ponderous nature and recurring attempts at profundity. Once you take away the flashy technique, which is admittedly very good, there is once again not a whole lot left underneath.
The movie has three interconnected stories, some real and some a story within a story, and in all of them Hugh Jackman's character is looking for the answer to immortality for his wife. There is a heavy mayan influence in all three stories and its this aspect that links them together, sometimes in an obivous way and sometimes in a more deliberately oblique way. What is a bit annoying is that Aronofsky almost goes out of his way to make this a difficult film to get into by cutting between the stories foy symbolic purposes, but at the same time reducing the viewer's involvement in any of them.
However, I did find the central relationship between Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz to work for me, mainly because of the effective performances, even though its easy to see why it wouldn’t for another person. Without that centre though, there would be even less reason for a viewer to become engaged in the movie despite the three stories coming together quite well by the end.
7/10
Ocean's Eleven
#1928 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.98] on 2007/06/29 21:37:52
Boring, annoying soundtrack.
#1929 posted by nitin [58.161.97.118] on 2007/07/02 12:42:55
Déjà Vu - Tony Scott's latest is actually very watchable for quite a while, a much more restrained movie than his usual frenetic style of dizzying the viewer with flashy pointless visuals. Till a certain point its also fairly interesting, mainly due to Denzel's committed performance, but as soon as the movie goes against the science it has so laboriously explained, it falls apart.
There's quite a few loopholes in the plot, which are the same loopholes that most movies of this sort fall into, but spending such an inordinate amount of time on the science just amplifies them when they occur. I think that you either go down the path of explaining stuff and staying consistent with the explanation (12 Monkeys and Primer) or ignoring plotholes and sidestep around them by not making the science a main focus (Terminator and Back to the Future).
Anyway, there' still a few nifty things, including a split time car chase and denzel's character's Laura like obsession with a dead woman, but they are not enough to overcome the scripting deficiencies.
5.5/10
Great Expectations (1946) - Even though I quite liked the novel when I read it about 10 years ago at school, I've never really seen any adaptations of it. But I cant imagine any being better than David Lean's excellent movie.
Like all great adaptations, it retains the essence of the novel not by being as faithful as it can to every plotpoint of the book (which this isnt) but by evoking the same feel and tone. Having said that, I was a bit disappointed by the changed 'happy' ending, especially when the printed ending was already changed from a more pessimistic one.
Still, apart from that minor complaint, it’s a very well made movie that is hard to fault.
8.5/10
Little Children - Similar in theme and concept to American Beauty, but this is nowhere near the same league. A poor blend of satire, drama and black comedy about suburbia this is a very slow movie which doesn’t necessarily have uninteresting characters, but their interactions are so fragmented and pointless that the drama never has any weight, the satire never hits its mark and the comedy is never in the right tone.
Todd Field's last movie, In the Bedroom, was also overly slow but had phenomenal acting from all its performers and a decent script. This has neither, although the acting is never bad (not oscar worthy though, another wasted nomination), it just isnt good enough to overcome the other problems.
4.5/10
Stalker
#1930 posted by R.P.G. [75.183.9.100] on 2007/07/04 23:02:34
I just got Stalker on DVD, but I haven't had the 3 hours to sit down and watch it. I'm looking forward to the opportunity.
Stalker
#1931 posted by nitin [58.161.96.130] on 2007/07/05 00:40:59
i thought this was very good.
Not for everyone though.
#1932 posted by nitin [203.214.62.243] on 2007/07/09 10:44:50
Hard Candy (2006) - When I read about this upon release, it sounded very similar to Audition, except with a pedophile angle. I never understood how that would work because if you make the victim unsympathetic, the majority of the impact would be lost.
Turns out that problem is there but otherwise it is only slightly similar to the japanese movie, and more interested in wordplay between its two lead characters (one who is really a 14 yr old vigilante, and the other who is a pedophile). The acting's great and its reasonably well made but there's big problems with the script. There's some stupid plotting but, more importantly, the way the main character's written is almost never believable. Ellen Page does pretty well with what she has, but she almost never sounds/behaves like a 14 yr old and that just keeps taking you out of the movie. Its also a missed oppurtunity, because if she did act like a 14 yr old more often, it owuld also be a more disturbing film.
5.5/10
Shakespeare in Love - another sub par multiple oscar winner that's light as fluff and badly made. I'm sure the idea sounded good and clever on paper and its obvious a lot of money went into costume/production design, but the rest of it is so very average in every department.
5/10
#1933 posted by nitin [203.214.62.243] on 2007/07/10 11:34:21
Harsh Times (2005) - David Ayer's first film as director is very similar in setting and story to his screenplay for Training Day, but I think this is a slightly better movie because of the stronger acting. Christian Bale is excellent, despite his accent not being entirely convincing, as a troubled ex-war veteran trying to restart his life in the latino community of LA along with his friend Mike (a one dimensional character played pretty well by Six Feet Under's Freddy Rodriguez).
There's some interesting stuff here such as the convincing relationship between two close friends who nevertheless fuel each other's destructive tendencies and the evocation of the low-life setting also seems pretty authentic. But what it lacks is a focused screenplay, Ayer appears to know where he wants the movie to go but has trouble getting it there in a non-contrived fashion. He also doesn’t seem to have enough faith in his actors and tries a bit too hard with some unnecessary and distracting tricks to bring out Bale's repressed psychological condition.
On the whole, it's definitely a movie most people will not like because of the generally unlikable characters and bleakness of tone, but its worth a watch for Bale's impressive work.
6/10
#1934 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/11 11:35:46
The Verdict - Written by Mamet, directed by Lumet and with one of newman's best performances, does anything else need to be said? I guess I should point out that my one problem with the movie has always been the unrealistic movieish approach towards the legal process but newman's acting and mamet's characterisation are so good that it doesn’t really matter all that much. Sidney Lumet also makes sure he has an unsentimental approach (as always) throughout which also helps buy some of the more implausible scenes.
The story of a past his prime alcoholic ambulance chaser lawyer who takes on a medical malpractice suit against the system is pretty cliché stuff but it’s the nuances in newman's character like always having personal selfish reasons taking precedence over "doing the right thing" that make it compelling.
7.5/10
#1935 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/15 11:52:55
Slings and Arrows Season 1 - One of the best shows most people will never see, this extremely well written canadian series set at a troubled Shakespearean festival is frequently hilarious and regularly engaging as a drama.
The cast consists of mostly unknowns, although a pre-Hollywood Rachel McAdams does feature in a major role, but they are all uniformly great and eat up the blackly comic dialogue.
The more familiar one is with shakespeare, the beter the show is, but the great thing is it works even if you dont know any shakespeare.
8.5/10
The Story of Marie and Julien (2003) - Jacques Rivette has a name for making extremely long movies (his Out 1 is a notorious 13 hrs), but this one is relatively tame length wise clocking in at 151 min.
It is also the stereotypical european film - techincally well made, excellently acted but slow, meandering, cold, sterile and purely academic. As with all stuff, I dont really have a problem with that type of movie as long as it is well made. And for a while, this one is full of some very interesting ideas. But before it can seriously explore any of them, it moves on to another one.
It demands a lot of the viewer, which is fine in my book (and is also helped by Emanuelle Beart's very good performance), but then doesnt return in proportion.
5.5/10
The Sword of Doom (1966) - Kihachi Okamato's great film which can either be seen as the story of a bad samurai trying to be good or of a regular samurai completely engulfed by the desire for violence is a fantasticly dark character study in the guise of a samurai movie.
The fight scenes are terrific with the choreography ranging from good to brilliant, but it's the confident storytelling that really grabs one's attention along with some truly spectacular cinematography.
Unfortunately it's let down by a very abrubt ending after a terrific buildup which according to some quick research is due to this being the first of an intended trilogy that never got finished due to a lack of funding. That info is not surprising because it really does feel as if it ended simply because they ran out of money to make any more.
A pity because it drags it down from a classic flm to a great one.
8/10
[b]Perfume (2006) - Many great directors including Stanley Kubrick and Martin Scorsese passed on the adaptation of the famous german novel, claiming it was unfilmable.
For close to two hours, Tom Tykwer proves them wrong as he makes a spectacular film charting the story of Jean-Baptiste Genouille (well played by brit Ben Whishaw), whose incomparable sense of smell and inexplicable lack of a personal scent isolates him from society and results in his single objective in life becoming the preservation of the perfect scent - the skin of beautiful women.
This is darkness of a different kind and its very well realised by Tykwer and his cast, although only Whishaw gets to flex any actin muscles.
But, there's a reason why it was considered unfilmable and its the ending. Assuming whats hown here is close to what happens in the novel, there is no way that can be communicated in a visual medium. Tykwer's attempt is interesting but the change in tone that eventuates to bring about this ending which when coupled with the direction overkill during this sequence will probably leave most people either laughing or scratching their heads, even though the events are a perfectly logical extension of what's gone before.
Still for two hours its a great film, and all the ending does is bring it down to good.
7/10
#1936 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/19 11:24:49
The Nights of Cabiria (1957) - Fedrico Fellini's episodic look at the story of a naïve but feisty prostitute is very similar in structure and plotting to his later La Dolce Vita, the main difference being that this one looks at the life of the poor rather than the life of the rich. Giulietta Masina plays the title role of Cabiria in a less calculated and more natural perfromance than in La Strada but a lot of this, whilst well made, is very repetitive. It does work though, mainly because Masina sells the naivety of the character well enough to make her surprise at comitting the same mistake more than once believable.
6.5/10
The Wicker Man (1973) - The british cult classic has a very big reputation as the Citizen Kane of horror movies but even though it follows most of the genre's conventions, it never really feels like one. And that aspect is both refreshing and disappointing. It’s a very intelligently written movie with some very interesting themes as it tells the story of a devoutly christian officer completely out of his depth investigating the disappearance of girl on a secluded island occupied by pagans. But something about it feels forced. I cant quite put my finger on it, maybe it’s the sometimes misplaced musical bits that are there to depict the paga rituals or maybe it just hammers in the pagan/christian conflict too hard for my liking. Either way, it's a worthwhile watch overall but I don’t quite agree with its stature.
6/10
#1937 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/23 11:50:38
Being Julia (2004) - a sort of modern british version of All About Eve, and this has almost the same characterisations and the same plot but for most its running time, it constantly reminds you of that far superior film about a popular but aging stage actress, the artifice she creates around her and the scheming young actress who wants to take her place.
Only towards the end, when Annette Bening's character carries out her revenge does it actually come to life, and it is also the only time I actually thought Bening was any good. For the most part though, it's just a fairly average by the numbers movie that seems to be on autopliot.
5.5/10
Tombstone (1993) - one of the few modern westerns and also another take on the Wyatt Earp story, I thought this was terrible apart from Val Kilmer's excellent work. Kilmer is great as the alcoholic Doc Holliday character but unfortunately the rest of it is a poorly told, scored and acted movie that is never convincing.
5/10
Touchez Pas au Grisbi (1954) - Jacques Becker's excellent, smooth and suave crime film has the sort of storytelling mastery that is missing from most modern films. It’s a very atmospheric and confidently made piece of work, which although having a clichéd plot, is very engaging due to the fine performances and also the focus on its characters and their motivations, rather than action.
7.5/10
#1938 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/24 09:38:42
Hot Fuzz - I'm not a huge Shaun of the Dead fan but this is pretty funny. It's not the second coming of comedy either, but it definitely hits a lot more than it misses. Generally structured like a satire until the last 30 min when it goes into full on spoof territory, it successfully riffs everything from Bad Boys 2 to The Shining to The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.
I love the way how its actually shot, edited and scored like a Michael Bay movie, so much so that it will pass as a good action film for a lot of people. It does occasionally try a bit too hard, but on the whole, very nicely done.
7/10
Yay...
#1939 posted by distrans [149.144.189.66] on 2007/07/25 06:50:14
...glad you got to see it! Caught it while visiting my sister recently. The whole family was on the floor in places. One thing that really pushed my buttons was how they shot, edited and backed the boring police paperwork/clue analysis sections...who knew hack work could be so exciting :)
Distrans
#1940 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/25 11:32:03
you've obviously never sen any of the CSI shows :)
Nitin
#1941 posted by Spirit [80.171.29.46] on 2007/07/25 12:42:53
Maybe you already know it, but if you like Simon Pegg then you MUST watch Spaced.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space...
It's the most awesome TV series I ever watched.
Spirit
#1942 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/25 12:49:30
aware of it, been trying to track down the dvd for some time.
#1943 posted by nitin [203.214.73.32] on 2007/07/26 13:52:41
Purple Noon (1960) - Earlier french version of The Talented Mr Ripley. I quite like the english version and this is a very very different film. But once you twig to the fact that this will be nothing like Anthony Minghella's movie, it has its own drawcards.
The first thing you notice is how it drops you straight into the story and cuts out the rather long and elaborate setup that's present in the english version. I'm a fan of that buildup and think that Clement's film could still have benefited from something similar, even if it wasn’t as long.
The next thing you notice is the difference in camera style. Minghella favoured wide scope vision and picturesque shots of his locations. Clement's film is shot in a much narrower ratio and he utlises it to make a really claustrophobic movie that makes you feel like you're right there next to the characters. It's very impressive camerawork.
But most of all, and I say this having no problems with Matt Damon in the role, Alain Dleon just makes a fascinating Tom Ripley. Damon and Minghella's script portrayed the character as a creepy pyschopath, Clement and Delon go for a much more understated sociopathic version of the character that I personally found to be much more effective and interesting.
On the whole, I think both versions are different films, but equal in overall quality.
7.5/10
Nitin...
#1944 posted by distrans [149.144.189.66] on 2007/07/27 06:33:15
...correct :)
Re:sword Of Doom
#1945 posted by nakasuhito [206.81.149.52] on 2007/07/28 13:19:56
damn the ending to hell. i mean, what the fuck! you get all worked up for the final and it just ends. awesome film anyway. when the main character (forgot his name) goes on a rampage at the end, its so damn awesome :-)
and for the ones who have seen stalker. i been so damn curious about this movie for such a long time. i saw solaris (the original one btw) and i really liked it. if i really liked that one, would stalker be worth buying?
*plops to the never ending universe.
Oh Yes
#1946 posted by nakasuhito [206.81.149.52] on 2007/07/28 13:24:58
then there's samurai fiction (1998). its such an awesome film, everyone should see it. :-)
its not a serious samurai film, and the cinematography rules hell.
http://www.totaleclips.com/Player/...
hopefully the long link wont make things weird on the page :-)
The Link Is For The Trailer.
#1947 posted by nakasuhito [206.81.149.52] on 2007/07/28 13:25:46
not to sleep.
Agragh
#1948 posted by nakasuhito [206.81.149.52] on 2007/07/28 13:46:21
"now" to sleep. not "not" to sleep
ah whatever. fuck it. :-)
Nakasuhito
#1949 posted by nitin [203.214.7.17] on 2007/07/28 17:33:32
well, Stalker has similarities with Solaris in terms of certain aspects of style (same director) but is otherwise not really the same.
So it depends really what you liked most about Solaris, the story or the way it was made?
#1950 posted by nakasuhito [206.81.149.52] on 2007/07/29 10:40:40
i loved everything about solaris. so i guess that means i should go with it.
i wish netflix would have it though. damn them to hells.
Nakasuhito
#1951 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/07/30 18:10:41
looks interesting, is there a version with subtitles?
I like the style of shooting.
#1952 posted by nakasuhito [206.81.149.52] on 2007/07/31 12:38:45
the movie was released here in the us, but i have never seen in stores. i rented it online, so yes to subtitles
#1953 posted by nitin [203.214.117.105] on 2007/08/02 13:00:56
Notes on a Scandal - quite liked this for the most part, Judi dench is excellent as the bitter, lonelyand unstable teacher who stumbles upon another teacher's affair with a student and uses it as a manipulative opportunity for her own motives.
Cate Blanchett provides good support (although she ahs one bad scene near the end) and it's generally well written. But all that good work is almost completely undone in a disastrous last 10 min which comes across as the writer not knowing how to finish it and just ended up ticking every box from your run of the mill creepy stalker film.
6.5/10
Stranger than Fiction - Charlie Kaufman lite. That's how this felt, a neat and amusing concept but without the inclination to actually probe the interesting ideas it conjures up.
The premise of a man becoming aware that he is character of a novel becuase he can hear the narrator's voiceover is full of possibilities but none of those are ever explored, and instead it settles for a routine romantic comedy angle.
Marc Forster indulges in all sorts of visual tricks to try and cover the thinness of the material, much as he did in Stay, but its not quite enough to make it memorable.
6/10
The Painted Veil - not out here yet, which is a shame, because it's easily the best picture of the year to date. John Curran's surprisingly different followup to his intense indie depresser, We Dont Live Here Anymore, is an excellent film that probably wont get the recognition it deserves.
A little while ago Steven Soderbergh tried to emulate movies from the Hollywood golden age, but without the code restrictions, and failed dismally. Curran successfully channels that era without ever compromsing the moderness of the production.
It looks tremendous, is paced beautifully and Edward Norton and Naomi Watts do great work in this story about a loveless couple and set against the backdrop of 20's China, where Norton's bacteriologist tries to help an inland town during a cholera outbreak.
It's great watching Norton in form and this is a welcome return to work for him (and much better than his lacklustre work in The Illusionist. Watts is even better in a performance that should be award nominated (but probably wont), another feather in her excellent recent ouput.
The only thing I didnt like is the ending, but that is possibly a minor plot point that probably stems from the book.
8/10
...
#1954 posted by starbuck [82.41.25.152] on 2007/08/04 07:14:33
The Simpsons Movie
About as funny as a normal episode of the simpsons, which is pretty damn funny. At the beginning though, homer asks the question "why would these morons pay to see something they could see on TV for free?" and he's right, they haven't been saving their best jokes or anything, and they rarely use the opportunity to escape the tv censors to do anything really crazy. It seems kind of dumbed down too, but there are parts where I definitely laughed out loud...
Knocked Up
Much much funnier though in a completely different style, this is easily one of the greatest comedies I've ever seen. It's from the guys who made '40 year old virgin' which was great, but this is a lot classier, funnier, and is a subtle enough movie to have been worth watching even if the laughs weren't there. Seth Rogan is amazing as the guy who accidentally gets a girl pregnant after aa one-night stand (Played by Katherine Heigl). It basically follows them from when they find out to until she gives birth, but it isn't cheesy or forced at all as much of the comedy comes from natural dialogue and banter the characters are having, and it never stoops to stereotypical characters and contrived situations.
Transformers
Haha I don't know where to start. Is it possible to make fun of a show which actually came out after the toys? This movie was literally brought to you by MATTEL, and they follow from where they left off by selling out in the most hilarious way i've ever seen.
I mean, I wasn't expecting Schindler's List, but I never imagined Optimus Prime would start talking about eBay. I wasn't expecting eBay to be mentioned many other times and feature heavily in the plot.
At one point in the final battle, the deceptacon magic actually creates a transformer that shoots mountain dew and is made of a mountain dew machine. NO JOKE. I call him refreshbot.
Also, all the autobots are shitty General Motors cars, and they pretty much show you an advert for each one, and occasionally let the GMC logo cover 60% of the cinema screen, seriously. I remember wishing the autobots had landed in a country which didn't have terrible cars.
There's more brazen sell-outery too: Nokia, HP, and especially the U.S. Marine core, who perhaps paid for the movie entirely. Wow, you'd have to be pretty damn patriotic not to throw up after some of the lines people say about the marines in this film (example: "you better watch out man, these guys aren't used to losin'." ).
The effects were CRAZY RAD SUPER though! Even if there was so much of them they actually got boring. Go watch this if you want capitalism itself take a shit on your head.
Starbuck
#1955 posted by nitin [210.84.4.252] on 2007/08/04 07:24:13
regular ep of the current simpsons or regular ep from the simpsons back when it was actually funny?
I've heard knocked up is pretty funny, might wait for dvd though because I heard the same for 40 yr virgin and I dont think I laughed once during that movie (probably says more about me though) :)
40 Year Old Virgin
#1956 posted by HeadThump [65.190.103.119] on 2007/08/04 10:08:38
wasn't funny, I was told before going in to see it that the chest waxing scene was hysterical. I didn't get so much as a chuckle from it.
However, as a character study sort of movie, it is interesting. I liked the ponderous dialog and the well developed characters. What Starbuck said about Knocked Up, 'but it isn't cheesy or forced at all as much of the comedy comes from natural dialogue and banter the characters are having, and it never stoops to stereotypical characters and contrived situations. applies to 40 Year Old Virgin.
I'm looking forward to Superbad too. The trailers look good, though the viral videos you'll likely find on the same trailer hosting sites that the actors made are boring poop jokes.
Simpsons Movie
#1957 posted by Spirit [80.171.28.40] on 2007/08/04 10:18:51
was ok. Nothing more or less. There were some good laughs but mainly I felt rather like "hey, this feels like a generic Simpsons episode stretched to movie length". It is more fun watching 3 Simpsons episode in a bunch.
I watched Not Another Teen Movie recently as American Pie 1-3 were shown in TV once again and I once again highly enjoyed them. Well, that NATM tried to follow American Pie with the setting and humor but in a Scary Movie way. Like trying to being a parody to itself. It miserably failed and was 3% fun, 97% very stupid. As since I didn't enjoy it I also found it pretty racist (stupid clichee stupid black guy)... :D
Headthump
#1958 posted by nitin [210.84.4.252] on 2007/08/04 11:11:43
are you telling me that steve carell's friends/work colleagues in 40 yr old virgin were not stereotypical nor cheesy/forced?
I agree the main relationship itself between keener and careel was sort of interesting but not the above. Plus it was too long (130 min or something). I really didnt like it.
Transformers
#1959 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/08/04 13:18:38
I found the action scenes bad. The camera was too zoomed in all the time, practically only at a few places could I have some sense of awe, for example when megatron breaks through the roof.
Some wider angle shots from afar that actually frame the situation and make some sense, ie so that you can picture who is where and what is happening! If it's just extremely zoomed shots from various angles you become disoriented and the whole action scene doesn't build up any sense of place or mechanics.
Bambuz
#1960 posted by nitin [210.84.4.252] on 2007/08/04 13:28:29
but that's the michael bay "style" :)
havent seen transfromers yet although my brother tells me the action scenes are actually not too badly shot for a Bay movie.
It's
#1961 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/08/04 13:40:41
such a waste. They used so much effort to make the CGI frames.
I remember Ridley Scott using shakycam in G.I. Jane, the camera would bump with scripted shot sounds.
It was not working entirely right to me.
Maybe some people thought it was awesome.
Cheesy/forced
#1962 posted by HeadThump [65.190.103.119] on 2007/08/04 16:19:09
not at all. They felt like the very kind of people you would find yourself working and joking around with day to day at least over here. I would go so far as to say Seth Rogan's character is a cleaned up, 100 percent more Jewish version of myself.
Transformers
#1963 posted by pjw [66.168.26.186] on 2007/08/04 18:30:46
I actually enjoyed it a lot. The only part that was forced for me was the typical hide-someone-will-see-you "hilarity" bit. Other than that, I had a great time.
Although I did go in to the movie thinking "this is probably going to suck balls" (our whole company went) and was pleasantly surprised, so maybe the relief is coloring my judgment.
Spirit
#1964 posted by scar3crow [151.141.113.21] on 2007/08/04 18:55:03
I'm not saying NATM is a work of art by any means, but the black guy who just says the same phrases over and over is mocking the stereotype that most black characters have in such movies, hence his introduction where he explains his persona "I'm just the token black guy, who only says things like 'Damn!' 'Shit!' and 'That is whack!'" and then subsequently demonstrates this with the sister coming into the scene. Later in the movie the main jock/coolkid guy stops to tell him that he thinks rather highly of him, and the Token Black Guy is relieved and quite happy, and begins to start what sounds like a potentially deep discussion - and the white guy runs off on him.
Not a great movie, but a pretty solid parody of the countless movies honestly. Especially when they went into how unattractive Janie is (being as how she is played by a very attractive girl).
I can't believe I just discussed this on func though...
Well No
#1965 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.66] on 2007/08/05 01:07:01
It's not a solid parody, it's a very bad parody. It takes itself too seriously. At least that was my impression.
O_O
#1966 posted by scar3crow [216.145.71.103] on 2007/08/05 13:27:51
I must say, I really don't see how you can think it takes itself seriously, from any of the scenes at all... But okay. Weird.
Knocked Up / 40 Year Old Virgin
#1967 posted by starbuck [82.41.207.83] on 2007/08/05 15:01:45
I just want to say, if you didn't like 40 year old virgin, that doesn't mean you won't like Knocked Up, they are a different style somewhat, with 40 year old virgin having more of a standard hollywood comedy format. I agree with Headthump that many of the characters were very uncliched and realistic, not all but many, and Knocked Up doesn't really have many 'joke' characters. I don't want to build it up too much, but go and see it with an open mind... nitin, pretend you're going to see Licence to Wed or Chuck & Larry and then hopefully be pleasantly surprised.
Oh I forgot to mention that there are some great cameos from people i have full on man-love for such as Harold Ramis, Loudon Wainwright III (who does all the music too) and B.J. Novak.
Inland Empire
#1968 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/08/05 23:26:33
went to see it ex tempore.
Would like to talk about it with someone else who did, as it's clearly some work that needs a lot of untying of all the knots, or however one would say it.
I'm tempted of creating a thread about it (with [spoilers] in topic), but if everybody just watches transformers stuff it's kinda useless...
So, say something if you wanna discuss it on func.
Harsh Times
#1969 posted by Tronyn [69.11.30.214] on 2007/08/06 00:41:28
Ok, this in itself is quite similar to Training Day (same folks who made that), maybe Training Day meets Taxi Driver. However, it actually made me appreciate that I'd fairly underrated Training Day when I saw it. This is, however, a better movie. It's all due to Christian Bale, as without him the movie would be nothing. I have to admit that I've become convinced over the past couple years that he is the best youngish actor in mainstream films right now, and this movie cemented that belief for me. While he tends to play crazy characters (which I find awesome), this is an entirely different kind of crazy. It isn't the paranoia and introspection of The Machinist, nor the anger and focus of Batman, or the arrogance and intensity of The Prestige. Rather, he plays a completely nonintellectual character, an ex-Army guy on the streets, who is almost like a ticking time bomb. I didn't know what to expect and was sure this would be the role he fell flat on, but I was really surprised and it's some of his best work.
Btw I lost a rock-paper-scissors a few weeks ago and had to go to Transformers. I have now joined the group of fine folks known as "Michael Bay Haters."
Eraserhead
#1970 posted by nakasuhito [71.35.229.41] on 2007/08/08 10:06:21
going to keep it short since i am not happy about it. i love "strange" films. actually, its the only type of film i watch, and foreign films. though i don't like saying foreign film since a movie its a movie, no matter where it comes from. always felt weird saying foreign films.
anyway, this is a piece of shit! how can people like this? i know everyone has different tastes and all, but man, this is like a ed wood film on acid, acid that doesn't get you high so you have to force yourself and pretend to see weird and strange things.
and whats worse, i wasted $20 on it! see, everyone i know raves about it, saying its the coolest thing there is. that its a piece of art. damn their lies. and whats with people saying the plot is hard to get? isn't the whole thing about the dude being scared to be a parent? it really looks like, and i don't think it can be about anything else. if it is, then its lies! :-)
anyway. i miss my $20. i want them back. :-)
but like i said before, everyone has different tastes. some find fish to be good, i think fish is disgusting as hell. others like grapes, i dont like grapes, but i really like grape juice. and grape soda... blah blah blah i didnt like this movie.
whoa, wrote more than i wanted to :-)
P.s
#1971 posted by nakasuhito [71.35.229.41] on 2007/08/08 10:08:37
im very sleepy, so sorry if i wrote gibberish above.
Starbuck: Transformers
#1972 posted by Lunaran [76.208.71.184] on 2007/08/12 17:50:00
I agree with your statements, and the cutting manner of their delivery. Don't forget XBox360Bot: a guy walking down the street with a brand new 360, who holds it up to the camera with a shocked look on his face when it comes to life, sprouts arms, and plays the 360 startup sound.
The selling out, the "hot girl falls for the nerd because she has a heart of gold" angle, and the completely awful and inconsistent characterization had me so angry when I left the theater that I almost felt like I just didn't want to go to the movies ever again. I think I'd rather just turn into nitin and only visit the foreign section of my local independent second-hand video store.
So
#1973 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.196] on 2007/08/12 18:21:23
The selling out, the "hot girl falls for the nerd because she has a heart of gold" angle, and the completely awful and inconsistent characterization had me so angry when I left the theater that I almost felt like I just didn't want to go to the movies ever again.
You went to see a movie based on a cartoon series that was created to sell toys and you expected something
better than a product placement advertisement with something better than conventional and not terribly cohesive plotting and this has killed cinema for you?
Simpsons Movie
#1974 posted by bear [80.217.113.193] on 2007/08/14 20:53:37
Maybe it could be edited down to one good 20 minute episode...
The good comedy parts were far too few and there wasn't really anything interesting to fill the gap between them.
I Can Only Stand
#1975 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.145] on 2007/08/14 23:29:07
Marge for roughly 23 minutes at a time. Maybe in a few years it will be broken down into four episodes sort of like the Family Guy straight to DVD movie in reverse.
Yeah
#1976 posted by Tronyn [69.11.30.214] on 2007/08/15 02:45:46
I felt like I didn't want to go to theatre movies or blockbusters anymore after seeing the crap that was Transformers.
"I'm never giving you this allspark!"
it seemed to encompass EVERYTHING that is wrong with hollywood blockbusters, all at once. Even the music in the background consistantly pissed me off. Fuck you Michael Bay.
Wow
#1977 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.40] on 2007/08/15 04:12:23
that movie must really be the ass end of Satan.
But if you give up on Cinema,
Michael Bay wins.
Headthump
#1978 posted by Lunaran [76.208.71.184] on 2007/08/15 05:47:08
so I deserve to be upset if my expectations are any higher than "crap"?
Lunaran:
#1979 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/08/15 06:42:44
If your expectations of any Michael Bay movie are higher than "crap?"
Probably, yes.
Caveat Emptor
#1980 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.40] on 2007/08/15 06:43:45
Hardware
#1981 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.109] on 2007/08/17 14:55:15
:\
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt009974...
http://www.everythingisundercontro...
Started off very promising, wonderful soundtrack and very well created post-apocalyptic/nuclear atmosphere.
Well, it's a b-movie so I should have expected less.
The style is very very nice but the story becomes bad.
Watch it if you like such movies. At least the intro and the shown content (as machinery, gimmicks, stuff) is worth it.
Well, No
#1982 posted by Lunaran [24.158.1.74] on 2007/08/17 16:48:20
see, everyone's trying to invalidate my opinion of this movie predicated on whether or not I went in the first place.
This movie offends me by existing. I'm almost glad I did see it so I know it needs to be hated.
Why Waste Your Time
#1983 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.125] on 2007/08/17 18:59:55
hating an insignificant kids movie?
Apocalypto
#1984 posted by Zwiffle [67.53.148.10] on 2007/08/18 00:20:24
I don't care if Mel's anti-semitic. This was a damn good movie.
Superbad
#1985 posted by Lunaran [76.208.71.184] on 2007/08/18 07:23:41
See it for the tiananmen square illustration.
You'll know.
Transformers
#1986 posted by negke [85.176.69.206] on 2007/08/26 23:11:41
it seemed to encompass EVERYTHING that is wrong with hollywood blockbusters
Definitely. This movie could have been a solid cartoon adaption, but wtf? To me it almost seemed to have been deliberately made stupid.
Starbuck: word!
Heh
#1987 posted by negke [85.176.69.206] on 2007/08/26 23:21:30
One could say it was a proper "sigh-fi" movie...
HAH!
#1988 posted by Shambler [82.38.192.253] on 2007/08/26 23:27:34
I deliberately chose to go and see Transformers out of my own free will.
It was very mildly entertaining nonsense.
And yes deliberately stupid.
Re: Transformers
#1989 posted by -_- [91.122.4.152] on 2007/08/27 00:39:34
some one needs to edit the hell out of it leaving only the robots and the action scenes.
then it would be really nice movie :)
I enjoyed the action and pretty much looked away during the idiotic 'human' parts
Agreed
#1990 posted by DaZ [80.41.180.76] on 2007/08/28 10:46:17
The other thing that pissed me off about it was the fact that the camera was always way to close to actually see wtf was happening half the time!
If the rest of the movie had been shot in the same great way as the 3 or 4 slo-mo shots you see throughout then it would have been so much better!
#1991 posted by Trinca [89.180.110.153] on 2007/08/28 22:53:42
Transformers was cool, last movie i saw was last week and was disturbia very nice movie :)
DaZ
#1992 posted by necros [99.244.15.189] on 2007/08/29 03:52:50
yes! i agree completly! it's an often overlooked (or not even noticed, surprisingly) thing, but the ridiculous use of close shots without any far shots to orient yourself and see where things are taking place was extremly irritating.
at the last big fight, i pretty much just started rolling my eyes at the stupidity of it.
BBC British Miniseries (40 Reviews In One)
#1993 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/08/29 22:15:49
A woman moves to a new environment, meets a handsome man of high standing but they can't be together, something tragic happens to the woman and she leaves for good, the man loses some of his status in a hardship, the woman unexpectedly inherits a huge fortune, the couple meet again and all is different and love can blossom ever after.
Produced with good actors and style, often making and enjoying watching. There are variations of course, depends on when the books were written and how classical they are, and there are varying amounts of subplots.
Daz, Necros
#1994 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/08/29 22:17:31
I exactly and completely agree with you. Like I wrote earlier, the zoomed in camera sucks because you can't orient yourself at all and can't build any anticipation or sense what is where.
Fast Cuts
#1995 posted by megaman [84.63.45.180] on 2007/08/30 00:20:50
i mean "i have no fucking idea what just happened"-fast - like in tomb raider - suck ass, too.
#1996 posted by necros [99.244.15.189] on 2007/08/30 04:23:45
even the one scene where all the autobots meet up and transform near the middle of the movie, the camera is ridiculously close to optimus, and then pans by so fast from one to the other that you barely see anything.
seriously, i think they just realised that it would be possible to make proper transformation, so they just fudged it to look ok, and blew the camera by so fast so no one would notice...
of course, i've noticed this 'extreme close up' technique a lot for a few years now, so i *should* be used to it by now, but what can i say; it drives me nuts. :P
Uh...
#1997 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/08/30 08:50:44
you guys do know that Michael Bay sucks, right?
Just What We Were Waiting For
#1998 posted by negke [82.82.180.110] on 2007/08/30 10:21:50
http://www.avp-r.com/trailer.html
Hehe...
#1999 posted by Bal [195.101.1.129] on 2007/08/30 11:15:27
Normally with these kind of big budget action movies they at least make the trailer look nice, but here even that looks shit. =)
Hmm
#2000 posted by starbuck [82.41.201.40] on 2007/08/30 16:18:01
effects look pretty good, trailer looks kind of bad but there's no one good involved by the looks of it, biggest star they've got is Michelle Dessler from 24 (reiko aylesworth?).
Man, how good would this have been if it was directed by James Cameron, had some actual real actors in it and was called Alien 5 (or Alien 3, pretending Alien 3, Resurrection and vs. Predator never happened). I would cream myself.
The Original Script...
#2001 posted by ionous [70.22.164.222] on 2007/08/31 01:48:34
for Alien 3 is floating online somewhere. I only read the first third of it, but it seemed to be more interesting than what Alien 3 become, involving a full scale war on Earth between the aliens.
Bah
#2002 posted by Bal [195.101.1.129] on 2007/08/31 09:44:01
I think Alien 3 rocks, so there.
I Liked It As Well
#2003 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.86] on 2007/08/31 10:08:14
much more grim then the second, Aliens which I didn't like. A Summer box office action flick lacking the raw verve of the first one.
I just read where Ridley Scott has stated that science fiction movies are dead. WTF?!? There as yet been a movie made from the works of Samuel Delany, Roger Zelazny, Gene Wolfe, Kate Wilhelm, Damon Knight, L Sprague DeCamp, Cordwainer Smith, Richard McKenna, Theodore Sturgeon, Jack Vance, Keith Roberts, Brian Aldis, Joe Haldeman, Alfred Bester, Howard Waldrop, Lucius Shepard, Michael Swannick, Connie Willis, Bruce Stirling, James Tiptree Jr., R A Lafferty, Joanna Russ, Pat Cadigan, George Alec Effinger, or Gregory Benford just to name a few authors off the top of my head who have written excellent novels and novelas that could translate into movies.
As far as I am concerned Science Fiction is a genre that Hollywood has yet to tap.
Alternatively
#2004 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2007/08/31 11:55:16
they could wait for a few decent screenwriters to cook up a good sci-fi script, then they don't have to butcher any classic novels. :)
Headthump
#2005 posted by Bal [195.101.1.129] on 2007/08/31 13:59:39
I agree with you, but honestly, most good sci-fi books wouldn't really make good movies...
Since where talking about Fincher and Sci-fi movies, he is working on Rendezvous with Rama. I haven't been dissapointed with Fincher yet, and Rama is a nice book, so hopefully the movie will rock.
To Whomever Says That Sci-fi Is Dead
#2006 posted by ionous [70.22.164.222] on 2007/09/01 02:16:39
I offer you:
Sunshine
The Fountain
A Scanner Darkly
Very clear evidence science fiction is not a dead genre.
ASD
#2007 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/09/01 08:34:58
really science fiction? o_O
Sunshine?
#2008 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2007/09/01 09:45:55
Pffft.
Hmmm...
#2009 posted by distrans [59.167.18.254] on 2007/09/01 11:08:59
...I always thought The Unicorn Variation by Zelazny would make an excellent transition to screenplay.
I Do To
#2010 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.79] on 2007/09/01 18:22:09
I pretty much listed authors who've written things that I thought were cinematic when I was reading them.
A few good novels begging for the screen treatment:
Nova and Babel-17 by Delaney
Free Live Free by Gene Wolfe
Forever War by Haldeman
Heavy Weather by Stirling
Life During War Time and Green Eyes by Shepard
When Gravity Fails by Effinger
Add To The List
#2011 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/09/02 02:35:32
some non english writing writers too.
But haven't read that many of the authors mentioned by HT. Mostly gettin what u get from library here, translated.
Probably the plots are too complex, weird or not right to make a low common denominator Mike Bay style film. What has always sucked and will suck about most movies are horrible and completely believability breaking scripts.
But I've ranted about this topic years ago. Nice that someone has similar thoughts.
Have you read Solaris and seen both the films? I don't know what Soderbergh was thinking at times. Why is the space station extremely clean, new and perfectly functional? Totally kills the atmosphere... Why is that one idiot (don't remember was his name changed from Snaut) just eating donut and minding his business as if nothing stressful and weird is happening on an isolated station far and away from everyone, he acts like it was an average weekday night after a normal day at the office? Etc etc... It's as if the director hadn't read the book at all.
Or if he had, he sure got some totally different impression than I did. The Soviet version gets many things right, but it suffers from a completely stiff lead. (co-lead Bondarchuk is amazing though.)
I Read It Many Years Ago
#2012 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.175] on 2007/09/02 03:57:41
and I haven't seen the movie versions though.
when I was a kid, some of the science-fiction magazines serialized several of Lem's short fiction works so I've got a lot of his work in the back of my head. I remember stories within a sort of Space Cadet framework that spoofed Heinlein's juvenile fiction as being pretty entertaining.
Lem
#2013 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/09/02 16:56:56
has even great short fairy tales, dunno how children would react when read to about all kinds of strange robots struggling in their lives and the weird kings and kingdoms. :)
They could only be done for the silver screen in hand drawn animation format methinks.
Seen Somewhere:
#2014 posted by mwh [62.31.157.102] on 2007/09/02 21:24:02
I pity the first person who attempts to make a film of the uplift universe
Also, Player of Games by Iain M. Banks.
Read A Review
#2015 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.180] on 2007/09/15 09:00:40
on the Hollywood Reporter to see if 3:10 to Yuma would be worth seeing tomorrow afternoon and I stumbled upon this gem:
While on the subject of time, both versions of the picture owe a tip of the Stetson to "High Noon," which also was governed by a ticking clock and featured good guys and bad guys who wore intricate shades of gray.
What the fuck?!? The villains in High Noon are only there in order to get shot at the end. There are no 'intricate shades of gray' there.
'Gee, Vern maybe we should cut this sheriff fella some slack. It's his last day of service and he is getting married and all ..." "No Innus, my momma beat with a brush handle when I were a yungin' I gots to take it out on somebody.",
No, it doesn't do 'gray area'. The sheriff is principled, the townsfolk are spineless, and the outlaws are cutthroats.
Admit it mister Hollywood Reporter critic, you have not seen the movie.
Anyway, there wasn't a comment forum on the page to harass and taunt the critic so I bumped this thread up instead.
Bold Is A Bit Too Bold
#2016 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.180] on 2007/09/15 09:10:28
wanted to make the Simpsons quote stand out from the first quote, but it looks like I'm yelling in that section.
Live and Learn.
#2017 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/09/15 20:48:46
good guys and bad guys who wore intricate shades of gray
He's talking about their clothing.
Hmmm Could Be,
#2018 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.228] on 2007/09/15 22:17:40
though,in this shot I see Quake-ish shades of brown and tan, though this shot doesn't show the villain gang.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/arts/gr...
And if they are dressed in gray with a bold flash of white and black on the trim (like a nifty scarf that would look gay on anyone but Steve McQueen), I guess I would owe mister Hollywood Reporter critic an apology.
^
#2019 posted by Spirit [213.39.223.208] on 2007/09/16 00:59:28
What movie is that shot from? The last posts here are way too confusing for me to tell.
3:10 To Yuma
#2020 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.73] on 2007/09/16 03:09:57
is the title. It came out last week. I have many complaints about the screenplay, but strong performances from several actors including the two leads, Russell Crowe and Christian Bale made it worth seeing.
Here is a trailer to wet the appetite:
http://www.beyondhollywood.com/mov...
3:10 To Yuma Looks Good
#2021 posted by nitin [203.214.115.106] on 2007/09/17 04:53:09
as does Eastern Promises and Bourne Ultimatum.
I saw spidey3 on a plane, not the best way to see it but I could still see that the action scenes were awesome and the rest of the movie too long.
6.5-7/10
'spidey3 On A Plane' Sounds Like A Great Film.
#2022 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.1.90] on 2007/09/17 10:35:14
"I'VE HAD IT WITH THESE MOTHER FUCKIN' SPIDERMEN ON THIS MOTHER FUCKIN' PLANE!"
Finally Had Time To Sit And Watch Stuff Properly
#2023 posted by nitin [210.84.9.225] on 2007/09/23 03:18:39
Spiderman 3 - plane impressions were pretty much right. Too long, too convoluted and with too many characters. But there are some great scenes and the action is fantastically shot, a rarity these days IMHO, and Thomas Hayden Church makes a good Sandman. Topher Grace is not so good (then again the whole Venom character looks out of place).
Same issues as before with Maguire and Dunst who vary wildly in quality from scene to scene but, on the whole, this was decent enough.
6.5/10
13 Tzameti (2005) - A twistedly cruel little french thriller that is extremely well made despite the thinness of the material. Gela Babluani's film is at its best in the first 30 min or so when the movie is simply oozing with tension and atmosphere as a poor young carpenter follows instructions meant for someone else in the hope for money.
Where it ends up after that is not as interesting but you still have to admire Babluani's skill at keeping things extremely tense for the entire duration, aided by some very precise and skilful camerawork and some excellent sound design. There are scenes in here that will literally make you squirm, and not because of gore but out of sheer anticipation.
Hollywood remake on the way too.
7/10
The Woman in the Window (1944) - Fritz Lang's well directed and acted film goes along beautifully for about 90 min or so, despite what seems to be odd logic gaps and bizzarre occurrences. Then it gets short cicruited by an ending that is very logical but also very undermining of the material.
Till then though, it's an atmospheric noir piece with Edward G Robinson turning in a very good performance and Lang in control of his material.
6.5/10
The Grapes of Wrath (1940) - I have never really warmed to John Ford's output but this is one of the great american films. It is surprisingly directed with minimum sentimentality by Ford, which is strange given how prone the material (John Steinbeck's original novel) would have been to such an approach.
There is still some unnecessary comedy sequences but they are kept near the start, and for the most part it is an exquisitely shot, written and acted piece. This is pretty much as good as cinematography gets and it is used to great effect to highlight the impact of every scene.
Henry Fonda is pivotally great in the central role of Tom Joad and he gets some very good support from John Carradine and Jane Darwell.
There is also a bit of abruptness about the ending but, overall, there is not much wrong with it.
8.5/10
Day Watch (Dnevnoy Dozor)
#2024 posted by negke [82.83.32.244] on 2007/09/23 10:27:41
Seriously, what was going on there? So many different things and ideas randomly thrown together...
Either I'm just to blunt to get the gist of it, or this is a good example of vodka-affected scriptwriting.
No Nescafe this time. ;)
#2025 posted by nitin [203.214.122.38] on 2007/09/23 10:33:09
the's the exact same reaction I had to Night Watch, the prequel.
I'm Glad Not Everyone Loved Those Films
#2026 posted by starbuck [80.192.72.117] on 2007/09/23 10:43:05
I thought nightwatch was just standard mishmash wannabe-badass generic balls, but most people think it's great... I get the feeling people think it's got some extra level of depth they should be appreciating because it's Russian trash as opposed to American or British trash.
#2027 posted by nitin [203.214.122.38] on 2007/09/23 11:04:39
i hated night watch with a passion :)
Yeah
#2028 posted by negke [82.83.32.244] on 2007/09/23 11:31:51
Though this one easily surpasses Night Watch by far. The theme had some potential but it wasn't properly executed. I usually like strange movies (or elements within movies) but there has to be at least some coherence.
Warrior King
#2029 posted by RickyT23 [86.138.194.24] on 2007/09/27 17:24:23
I seem to be the only person I know who watched that film and decided it was the best kung-fu movie I have ever seen. Im even willing to say its THE best kung-fu movie ever made. Tony Jaa (or whatever hes called) IS Bruce Lee. If you havent seen it, watch it, and agree. Or if you can honestly tell me that you've seen a better film that I haven't then I'm dieing to know what it is!
B-movies!
#2030 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.203] on 2007/09/27 20:48:26
I discovered the awesome http://cinemageddon.org/ recently (torrent site, but should be quite safe for its content). It's all about B-Movies and alike.
The first movie I watched from there was
For Y'ur Height Only
http://imdb.com/title/tt0200642/
http://www.youtube.com/v/M5KeUMxyA...
http://www.youtube.com/v/eqh5O9Lbj... (so catchy!)
Mr. Giant has kidnapped the brilliant Dr. Van Kohler and is planning to use the Doctor's invention, the N-bomb, to hold the world hostage. The only one who can foil Mr. Giant's evil scheme is Agent 00, a 3-foot-tall filipino martial arts master, expert marksman, top-class romancer and all-around superspy. Can Agent 00 rescue Dr. Kohler before it's too late?
It's as awesome as it sounds. Really bad and really awesome. I am looking forward seeing the sequel.
Next was Hardware I think, I posted #1981
Now I just watched Warlords of the 21st Century
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008488...
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a...
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a...
It was so-so. Some good acting, some great effects (explosions!), some cool dialogs. The story was very kitschy and shallow though. Not nearly as great as I hoped after seeing the pictures. The truck is damn cool for sure and some other vehicle later too. The "good guy" is too much of a smug(?) to like him, but the bad guys are great.
Havent Seen Warrior King
#2031 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/28 00:15:32
but saw bits of The Protector and thought that it was nowhere near as good as Ong Bak in the action scenes. Everything looked and felt more slicker, less intense, and PG. Probably the effect of a hollywood backing and a bigger budget.
So You Havent Seen Warrior King Yet Then?
#2032 posted by RickyT23 [86.138.194.24] on 2007/09/28 10:50:13
Find it, watch it. I saw Ong Bak, and thought it was OK. In warrior king, I would like to add, there are no stunt-doubles, no wires, and no computer effects, except for in a couple of dreams that he has about elephants!
Really, you just re-itterated my point.
Also, I know a few people who say that they wouldnt watch it because it has sub titles. AAAAARRRRGGHH! Its a kung-fu movie, for goodness sake! You let your fists do all the talkin. Some of the best films I have ever seen had sub titles anyway. City of God?
Besides, Warrior King is half in english anyway, cause its mostly set in Sydney. Its a lot more grander and action packed than Ong Bak. Watch it people.
Looked It Up
#2033 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/28 11:16:02
actually The Protector and The Warrior King are the same movie, different tilte for different regions.
Anyway, I stand by my comments. I thought the action scenes were much poorer than ong bak in this. Personal taste I guess, but that's what I think.
No point talking about the rest of it really, because that's all there is to it.
Yeah
#2034 posted by Bal [195.101.1.129] on 2007/09/28 11:27:34
I thought Ong Bak was better too... Even though if I remember correctly, that scenes in Honour of the Dragon (aka The Protector, aka Warrior King, hehe) where he's going up the different floors in the restaurant is quite impressive, as it's all done in one take. The flashback with the elephant at the end was pretty lol. =)
What About The Bit..
#2035 posted by RickyT23 [86.138.194.24] on 2007/09/28 11:49:30
where he fights all of thos sk8er bois in the warehouse near the start? Theres a bit where he does a Neo-style backflip of a pane of glass which gets smashed up straight afterwards (all in slo mo), stuck in my mind. Ong bak just didnt romance me in the same way as Warrior King (or whatever you want to call it), the purity of the plot (WHERES MY ELEPHANT!!!) is fantastic. Much smaller body count in Ong Bak.
Also liked Unleashed. The moves in Warrior King were better though I guess.
Its like;
Enter the Dragon or Way of the Dragon?
#2036 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/28 15:34:43
The Crying Game (1992) - well, I don’t really know what I actually thought of this as a whole to be honest. I found the first act which deals with the kidnapping of a british soldier by the IRA and the eventual bond that forms between one of the captors and the hostage to be poorly written, unconvincing and lazily made. Then the movie makes a complete right turn (and if you've seen it, you'll know what I'm talking about), becomes far more interesting with its characters, and the level of scripting improves drastically.
Its easily the strongest section of the film thanks to the acting and writing, which excels in its dialogue despite issues with pacing and flow. And then all of the good work is again undermined when the movie brings back the IRA subplot towards the end, leading to a very mundane and by the numbers conclusion.
There's definitely good stuff in here, it's just bookended with unconvincing material.
6.5/10
Du Levande
#2037 posted by bear [194.237.168.165] on 2007/09/28 15:35:40
http://imdb.com/title/tt0445336/
The latest movie from Swedish film maker Roy Andersson who makes movies his own way even if it means he has to take breaks in the production to do commercials in order to fund his projects.
It's very different from pretty much everything being shown on cinema today and I strongly recommend you go see it if you get the opportunity (I know it has some international distribution but I have no idea to what extent).
#2038 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/29 03:49:48
300 - well I know a lot of people liked this but I thought it was an absolute disgrace of a movie. A complete and utter waste of time from start to finish.
Even the much touted style didnt impress, I thought it looked average at best and, quite frequently, just plain awful.
1/10
Whew That's Harsh
#2039 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.204] on 2007/09/29 04:57:06
If you go in expecting a serious swords and sandals drama like Ben Hur or Gladiator and you get this movie instead I can see nailing it with a low score, but if your expectations are no more than you are going in to see a live action cartoon like the latest Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles than a more middle of the road rating would seem more appropriate in my humble estimation.
Expectations Were Low
#2040 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/29 05:58:49
but I just didnt like the 'style'. It looked shit IMHO and the action scenes were also pretty ordinary except maybe one or two.
Not Even On A Kitsch Level?
#2041 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.204] on 2007/09/29 06:53:51
the militarism and fascism? the homo-erotic Xerxes in leather and a glistening bold head? the milfy tits in the solid R sex scene? the anachronistic heavy metal battle music? Oh, well.
My off the wall complaints about the movie. 1) The Persians didn't look like any Persians I know, many didn't look like any humans that I know (this does emphasize the cartoonish nature of the movie that makes it acceptable in some sense), and 2) the milf actress couldn't project her voice worth shit while the actor playing Leonidas screamed his head off the entire time (take an acting tip from Brando and Crowe dude, a confident whisper is much more intimidating than losing your cool).
Oh That Head Was Indeed 'bold'
#2042 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.204] on 2007/09/29 06:55:06
but I was going for 'bald'.
Hmm...
#2043 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/09/29 09:00:55
You're not alone, i was actually another person who didn't like 300. I went in expecting something along the lines of Sin City, i.e. very stylized visuals and characters, and story/dialog that was enthusiastically cliched. And it was, yet I still hated it.
It troubled me how I could like one movie and dislike another, yet everything I could say about 300 is also true of sin city. They both have a 13-year-old boy sensibility. They were both violent and exploitative. Both had an interesting visual style that was pulled off fairly well.
Maybe the problem was that sin city was smart enough to know it was full of cliches and caricatures, but 300 seemed very earnest about its story and its dialog. The dialog in particular felt like it had been written by professional wrestlers, and was delivered as such.
Maybe the difference was all in the directing. Rodriguez knew he was directing an over-the-top parody of comic book noir, but Snyder thought he was filming ancient greek war propoganda. So, sin city was subtly ironic and smart enough to question its characters, while 300 really believes the good guys are just and the bad guys are wicked and evil.
Ugh...
#2044 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/09/29 09:03:16
...and guess who's signed up to direct Watchmen?
Metl
#2045 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/29 09:53:00
that pretty much nails the likeability factor of thw two, but I still think Sin City was miles ahead of 300 in the visuals department(really all it did was turn up the contrast and drain the blue from every image).
Sin City actually has interesting camerawork, 300 just overuses the matrix slow mo on top off its high contrast imagery. I personally didnt think it had not one actually interesting bit of camerawork in it.
Nitin:
#2046 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/09/29 11:49:21
oh yeah, i was going to say that too. Sin City used visuals to tell a story, 300 used them like a club to beat the audience over the head.
I think 300 had some nice looking shots, but they were always recreating a pretty storyboard and were usually showing off the prettyness rather than using them for storytelling. (same way some sci fi movies use FX to tell a story, others spend a lot of time just showing off the expensive FX)
Yeah...
#2047 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/09/29 16:58:12
Fuck 300, to me more than any other recent movie it marks the point of CGI overload. How can one derive entertainment from 1,000 people fighting, 10,000, 100,000, 1,000,000, or 1,000,000,000 if the whole thing is retarded and doesn't mean shit? Completely unconvincing, completely retarded, and having absolutely nothing to do with the source material (maybe a fault of Miller's, who knows).
An enlightening comparison to this movie I find, is Apocalypto: They actually went into the jungle and actually did the scenes and stunts, gravity behaves normally, people are sweaty and covered in muck as you'd expect, they even used subtitles, conveying willingness on the part of the director to make the audience compromise instead of compromising the material. Apocalypto may not have been historically accurate (I can't judge, knowing little about South American history), but compared to 300 it has such a different attitude towards filmmaking that I felt invested in the struggles of 10 people, wheras with 300 couldn't give a shit about the murder of millions.
Hollywood does a real disservice to humanity when it projects its tanned, oiled, hairless vision of reality onto any source material and one can't help but feel that the ignorance of the masses in general has been heaped upon by such profiteers. A certain amount of stupidity is going to be the standard, but it's decades of films exemplifying the tendencies that 300 gathers in one giant shitfest that are responsible for the ignorance of the average person, particularly in America. Unless it's something in the water, or the gene pool, one has to blame it on the culture.
Richard Dawkins (whom I previously didn't like, but am coming to appreciate more) commented on American stupidity, "These people have the vote and the rest of us must deal with the consequences."
Pwned
#2048 posted by megaman [87.245.38.26] on 2007/09/29 17:04:23
i love you guys
300
#2049 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.30] on 2007/09/29 17:17:47
I fucking liked it.
Jeez,
#2050 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.106] on 2007/09/29 18:46:12
it's a popcorn chewing Saturday Matinée flick. You are taking it way too seriously. It is not Götterdämmerung, the Apocalypse, and the Decline of Western Civilization all wrapped in to one 90 minute spectacle, and it's inaccurate portrayal of history are no more important or damaging than the fictions Puzo built around the Italian mob or
Shakespeare likewise wrote about the British Aristocracy.
Still Love Ya Though
#2051 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.106] on 2007/09/29 19:12:38
even if my well water is contaminated with lead chips.
Lol
#2052 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/09/30 01:42:26
alright maybe I overreacted, but the point was not that it's historically inaccurate, I don't care about that, it's just that it was so fake and dumb. I'm complaining not that they're spreading ignorance so much as that they may be spreading stupidity itself.
the whole epic thing has been so overdone it's starting to be sickening. Of all the post-LOTR epics I think only Troy was in any way decent.
I Was In Agreement
#2053 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/30 04:23:53
till you brought up Troy :)
Although i do plan to watch the extended director's cut over the next week or so, hoping it's better.
For my money, and this will be very hard to believe if you've actually seen the theatrical version, but the director's cut of Kingdom of Heaven is actually very very good. The 50 min of extra footage shows how easy it is to completely butcher a good film.
Yeah
#2054 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/09/30 04:44:29
I saw that in a theatre when it came out, and I do find that hard to believe. That is surprising to hear, the theatrical cut seemed to meander around without a point and felt way too long.
well I will have to check it out some time.
It's Worth It
#2055 posted by nitin [210.84.4.18] on 2007/09/30 09:13:54
I thought the theatrical edition was a piece of crap, but the extended cut is excellent.
Tronyn
#2056 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/01 03:37:07
I don't care if you overreacted, if it gets you to write awesome monologues like that!
#2057 posted by nitin [210.84.7.209] on 2007/10/03 10:07:38
Deliverance (1973) - rewatch, I was a bit harsh on this last time I saw it, incorrectly labelling it a one scene movie. It's beautifully shot, well acted and the direction is tense and natural. But having said that, I still find something not quite right about the movie as a whole, just cant put my finger on it. Either way, it is, at the very least, quite a good film with some standout sequences.
7/10
Saw Sunshine Last Week
#2058 posted by czg [213.115.252.84] on 2007/10/03 12:26:11
Had potential to be utterly fantastic, but ended up being just mediocre. Too many people dying in stupid ways.
However: Incredible cinematography and set design, and Underworld's soundtrack is brilliant.
Planet Terror
#2059 posted by megaman [87.245.37.166] on 2007/10/03 14:29:22
oh man, great, great fun. can't remember when i last had this much fun with a movie.
That said, i have three points to critisize:
1) There's a totally weird 'film roll missing' cut in the middle that totally stunk. It cuts off a sex scene and then starts with all previous characters united at one place (that's suddenly burning down). (esp. as the big cut makes all character introduction unnecessary anyways.)
2) It's a tad too long. Some 'shoot another few zombies down' scenes could've been left out imho - i wasn't exactly bored, but it felt lengthy
3) i wouldn't normally pick on logic flaws, but this one is more of an inner logic error: The chick with the machine gun leg suddenly is invincible when she attacks the helis with the soldiers, and all other (as well as herself in pervious scenes) are quite careful and in fear f getting shot. kind of a break of the own rules.
oh, and it receives -1 each brainlessness and no message at all penalties
8/10
Whoops
#2060 posted by megaman [87.245.52.72] on 2007/10/03 21:22:20
now that i read it again, the "(esp. as the big cut makes all character introduction unnecessary anyways.)" should be at the end of point 2)
Czg
#2061 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/04 08:14:50
also: gravity in sunshine = what
I Can Suspend Disbelief For Artificial Gravity
#2062 posted by czg [83.253.234.172] on 2007/10/04 09:25:20
This is a sci-fi after all.
However from the airlock scene we are led to believe that presence of air = gravity, and that is a wtf. If they had like a small monitor that said "local gravity field enabled" or something to that effect I would have been happier.
Overall I thought this was going to be a nice hard sci-fi but it wasn't. Disappointed I am.
Also Cillian Murphy is sooooooo creeeepyyyy, zooomggggggg!!!
Anybody Seen
#2063 posted by bambuz [193.167.3.57] on 2007/10/04 14:53:06
In the Shadow of the Moon?
Supposedly rocks.
Only available in USA in theaters, except perhaps some small film festivals elsewhere. :(((
Finally Saw
#2064 posted by nitin [210.84.7.209] on 2007/10/07 02:55:18
Sunshine - well you guys are right but you have to have some admiration for a movie that manages to incorporate <a>Alien, Solaris and 2001 successfully without really feeling like a rip off. Of course, it's unfortunate that it also chose to incorporate Event Horizon in its last act and although the idea for that part was interesting, the execution was poorly judged.
And yes, the visuals are outstanding (especially for that budget), but no one's mentioned the sound design yet. I thought it was great and added a lot to the atmosphere.
6.5/10
#2065 posted by nitin [203.214.32.60] on 2007/10/08 14:39:23
Pitfall (1962) - Hirsohi Teshigahara's debut film is one of the most oddly unpredictable movies I have seen. The director has described it as a documentary-fantasy, and that is certainly a very apt description as the movie is part socio-realist critique, part ghost story and part existential drama. Every time you think you have it pinned as to where it is going next, it goes in a completely different direction.
For me, this strange melding of genres and ideas, as a murdered japanese miner returns as a ghost determined to find out the reason for his death, did not quite work in an overall sense. However, its rhtyhm is definitely strangely compelling and that in itself puts it ahead of most movies.
6/10
Smokin Aces - Joe Carnahan's followup to Narc is a big, loud, blood soaked mess, but it is a good mess. The pulpy, convoluted "story" about a range of parties converging at a hotel in an attempt to claim the bounty on a wanted man is overwrought in cliches, has too many unnecessary characters and plotlines and is really a big excuse for an extended action scene. But its reasonably well made as a non-serious and over the top action film, and the carnage unleashed near the end is very impressive. Pity that the denoument after this scene goes into lengthy exposition that belongs in a completely different movie.
6/10
#2066 posted by nitin [203.214.32.60] on 2007/10/10 11:13:44
Twin Peaks : Fire Walk With Me - I have a lot of time for David Lynch but this is absolutely disgraceful. Not only is it a terrible movie on its own, it does its best to destroy the memory of the show. Atrociously made from start to finish, it relegates the best characters from the show to the background and kills all the mystery surrounding the laura palmer character. Her last 7 days, which essentially takes most of the running time of the film, is nowhere near as interesting when depicted in the manner shown here, and was much better off when left to the imagination. The movie also introduces events that seem to contradict character behaviour in the tv series.
Also missing is the trademark Lynch command of visuals and sound design to generate the atmosphere that is usually present in everything he makes. The end result is an extremely emabrassing effort.
0.5/10
Atonement
#2067 posted by starbuck [129.215.59.82] on 2007/10/10 17:57:03
Despite having never read the book, and this movie being really hyped up by most people I know, I was still impressed with this. It's set around the second world war, and a situation in the grounds of a family estate where a young girl misconstrues a situation which sends the hero (played to James McAvoy) to jail for rape, where he makes the decision to go to war instead of doing the rest of his time.
The film is partly about the exploits of Robbie, the James McAvoy character, and Cecelia his love interest (played better than average by Keira Knightley), and also about Briony, they girl who mistakenly sent him to jail and her desire for atonement (ooh!) for what she did.
The film looks amazing, and while I felt the early pre-war section of the film is slightly too self-indulgent and artsy looking for it's own good, this doesn't take anything away, and the 2nd half of the film during the war is shot amazingly. There's an extremely long single-shot take which focuses on soldiers waiting to be evacuated from the beaches in France which has got a lot of attention from critics, and you have to watch it to see why. The way the sound design comes together in that moment with the orchestral score in the background and soldiers singing in choirs on the beach is dischordant and harmonious at the same time and is really incredible, my favourite part of the film.
My major reservation about this film is that it seemed to drag on a bit in the first section (pre-war) and ended rather abruptly. Also there's a semi-twist which breaks the narrative at the end which seemed a bit tacked-on and probably came together a bit better in the book. Generally it's a bit depressing, but I was expecting full-on harrowing from what people told me before i went to see it, so that was okay. So yeah, go see this.
Hotel Chevalier
#2068 posted by starbuck [129.215.59.82] on 2007/10/10 18:01:24
It's a prologue to the next Wes Anderson film, and I love Wes Anderson, so I'm pretty excited about that. Not much happens in this, it's all set in a hotel room and stars only Jason Schwarzman and Natalie Portman. There's a lot of little details to notice but don't expect to learn too much about the 'Darjeeling limited' (the full film). Generally well worth a watch, especially if you're so shallow you want to see Natalie Portman (briefly) naked. Oh Natalie.
Oh you can download it for free if you've got an american iTunes account, or it's probably on torrent sites now if you don't.
Looking Forward To Both Of Those
#2069 posted by nitin [203.214.32.60] on 2007/10/11 00:35:41
saw death proof last night, comments later.
#2070 posted by nitin [203.214.32.60] on 2007/10/11 11:38:15
Death Proof - I've always found Tarantino to be overly self indulgent, but despite that, having made generally entertaining films. And for the first half of his latest, it's more of the same, a well made throwaway piece of entertainment in the grindhouse style. Then, the grindhouse sensibility disappears, a whole new level of self indulgence kicks in and, most importantly, it becomes more cringe inducing than entertaining.
I'm sure someone out there appreciates what he's doing in the second half and finds it funny apart from Tarantino himself, but it wasn’t me. I would have preferred it if he kept the whole movie in line with the first half.
5.5/10
Sunshine
#2071 posted by mwh [62.31.157.102] on 2007/10/12 00:41:07
Yeah, irritatingly stupid.
Most of the irritating is because it in no way had to be so dumb.
#2072 posted by nitin [210.84.10.60] on 2007/10/16 10:58:26
Running Scared (2006) - paul walker in semi decent performance in almost good movie shocker. This is junk, but it's classy junk. Wayne Kramer's film is an extremely over the top urban nightmare that keeps plumbing lower and lower depths of depravity in an effort to shock and entertain, and mostly it works.
Walker plays a low life criminal who basically stuffs up the hiding of a murder weapon and then has to retrieve it before he gets killed over it. Along the way, the movie runs into every cliché imaginable, backs up, and then runs into each one again at a higher speed. Walker is surprisngly watchable and Vera Farmiga is very good as his distraught wife that gets her own nice little subplot. It's not a great film by any means, but I did find all the excess surprisingly entertaining to a degree.
6/10
Troy (Director's cut) - With 30 min of extended footage, the new director's cut of Brad Pitt staring into the distance is an improvement, one that actually makes the film watchable if nothing more. The new footage cannot eradicate the bad dialogue or lack of any real substance in david benioff's script, but it does smooth out the some of the pacing and flow problems that were present in the orginal version. There is also noticeable changes in the visual and aural departments, both areas being improved. More screen time is also given to Peter O'Toole's character, which is a good thing because the great man outacts everything else on screen.
In short, it's not the drastic improvement over the original like the Kingdom of Heaven DC was, but it's noticeably better.
6/10 (compared to 4/10 for theatrical)
Exiles (2004) - An interesting, if not entirely successful, road movie by Tony Gatlif that has two characters embarking on what starts out to be a walking trip from France to Algeria in an effort to discover the country of their families' origin. Well shot, well acted and with an excellent music score that seems to combine techno, gypsy folk and algerian folk, Gatlif's movie is as meandering as most road films are, but also has a very strangely compelling last 10 min to finish off proceedings. There are a few issues along the way where scenes seem to go for longer than they should because of the lack of focus on narrative, but it's an interesting and unique watch on the whole.
6/10
Deadwood Season 3 - great finish to a great series, the 3rd season fixes the issues I had with (the still very very good) Season 2, and adds a couple of very interesting new characters. Most of the season is just a drawn out and slow burn exercise in suspense, but I found it fascinating, especially with the powerful George Hearst character being given centre stage and forcing memebers of the camp to think hard about how to combat his presence, whilst still maintaning or improving their own situations. The dialgoue is back to its glorious best, the acting is top notch as usual with the addition of Brian Cox a very welcome addition, and the finale is worth the wait. Too bad this is the end.
8.5/10
#2073 posted by nitin [210.84.10.30] on 2007/10/17 12:30:50
Junebug (2005) - it's self consciously indie and also a little bit heavy handed, but otherwise it's very well written particularly in relation to character nuance and interaction. It's helped by 2 very good performances by Embeth Davidtz and Amy Adams, both of whom manage to play their characters really well when there was big scope for caricature.
The story's nothing to write home about, a big city businesswoman takes the opportunity to turn a business trip into a visit to her boyfriend's small town family, all of whom represent cliché characters. But, like I said before, the writing in the interactions of the character is first rate, and coupled with the performances by Davidtz who plays the businesswoman and Adams who plays the pregnant sister in law, actually makes this dramedy quite a good watch.
7/10
Yeah
#2074 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/17 16:46:50
RIP Deadwood
What pisses me off is that Season 3 _is_ such a slow burn, they clearly had to keep putting off the war with Hearst (awesome performance by McRaney), which was set up and could have happened anytime during the season (right after ep 5 for example, even after episode 1!). They spent all that time avoiding the climatic battle, for the reason that it very likely would have killed off most of the major characters and left very little story to tell afterwards - and now, it won't happen at all.
I can understand that HBO cancels stuff, but if only they had known that while Season 3 was still filming, the entire thing could have been wrapped up within season 3.
:D
#2075 posted by Spirit [80.171.81.164] on 2007/10/21 14:16:28
City Hunter
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt010395...
I'll just be lazy and quote from imdb:
Extremely silly comedy about a self-indulgent private investigator who winds up on a cruise ship full of rich patrons, gorgeous women, murderous terrorists, and scarce food.
-----
Jackie Chan plays a womanizing private eye known as City Hunter in this Wong Jing directed movie. The movie is played for surreal laughs part of the time. But with Wong Jing at the helm of this comic strip of a movie, that is no surprise. When you watch this movie, you realize that Jackie Chan knows how to pick stories and direct himself better than anyone else.
Perfect fun for a sunday with headache. A quite awesome martial arts fight at the end and that famous Street Fighter scene for fans of that. And Jackie Chan's silly acting is great. A bit like japanese Austin Powers with less "hollywood-professionalism&qu... and an extra portion silly.
*Ciiity Hunter*
#2076 posted by nitin [124.168.136.49] on 2007/10/22 12:21:27
To Kill a Mockingbird - had been putting this off for a while because, well, the accents annoyed me whenever I tried to watch it :)
This time I wasn’t so bothered, maybe because I watched The Grapes of Wrath recently, or maybe because I was in a more forgiving mood. Anyway, this rightly deserves its reputation, its definitely a classic piece of moviemaking that hits all the right notes. I don’t really care for Gregory Peck but this is a tremendous performance and although I was more interested in the children's actions than the trial, Peck ensured those scenes were still worthwhile.
Other memorable things were the very well integrated score from Elmer Bernstien and Robert Duvall in his cameo as Boo Radley.
8.5/10
Mysterious Skin (2004) - hmm, it's not a bad movie by any means, but there is something definitely missing from Greg Arrakis' movie about the effects and trauma of uncle stevie behaviour on two kids from the same baseball team. There's a lot to like, the performances are very good, particularly Joseph-Gordon Levitt (who between this, Brick and The Lookout has all but erased his 3rd rock from the sun image) as the older version of one of the kids who becomes some sort of disconnected g@y hustler. Then there's the side characters, who are quite well defined despite not really having any story arcs of their own, and are still quite important to the overall context of the story.
But to counter all that, the tone seems completely off and I think the biggest problem is that even though Arrakis lingers unflinchingly on the horrors of his subject matter, it seems to be the only way that he can make an impact on the viewer because at all times the movie seems more concerned with the characters' actions rather than with the characters themselves. So while it's not a bad film, it's not a particularly good one either.
5.5-6/10
The Lookout (2007) - fairly decent crime drama/thriller by Scott Frank, the writer of Get Shorty and Out of Sight. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is again very good as a mentally impaired janitor at a small time bank who unwittingly becomes involved in a heist plan by some local criminals. Jeff Daniels is also quite good as his blind roommate, even though his role is underwritten.
Frank's script is quite slick and smooth but importantly spends a lot of time in getting us to sympathise with Gordon-Levitt's character, which is a good thing because otherwise the general plot's fairly derivative and unoriginal (in fact there's more than a couple of occasions where it's very similar to Memento).
7/10
The Palm Beach Story (1944) - again, not a bad film, but not a particularly good one either. I liked the central concept but felt that Preston Sturges could have extracted a lot more humour from it than he did. I also found the slapstick and zany support characters to not work and whilst Claudette Colbert and Joel McCrea did well with what they had, the script lacked bite. And the ending's a serious copout and felt extremely tacked on.
5/10
City Hunter
#2077 posted by starbuck [82.41.206.175] on 2007/10/22 12:58:35
is pretty ridiculous even for an early(ish) Jackie Chan film. Doesn't he skateboard everywhere in it? Also, the real life street fighter fight of course. Wasn't Guile asian?
#2078 posted by nitin [124.168.136.49] on 2007/10/24 02:36:19
State and Main (2000) - fairly entertaining but lightweight movie by David Mamet about the problems and impact a movie crew have while trying to shoot their movie in a small american town, after they are forced to go there due to a lack of money to shoot elsewhere.
It's very similar, but inferior, to Francois Truffaut's Day for Night, mainly because its too tongue in cheek for its own good. But the dialgoue is excellent and the ensemble cast including William H Macy, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Alec Baldwin and Sarah Jessica Parker lap it up to good effect.
6.5/10
#2079 posted by nitin [124.168.84.181] on 2007/10/25 12:23:13
Michael Clayton - quite an impressive debut by Tony Gilroy, writer of the Bourne films, even though it's very obviously a writer's film rather than an experienced director's. It's a fairly densely plotted drama/thriller but thankfully most of it is quite intelligently written (there's a handful of plotting errors, nothing too glaring that detracts from the overall experience, but big enough to draw me out of the movie when they happened).
It's helped by some very fine acting, George Clooney does a reasonable job as the title character, a 'fixer' at a large law firm, but it's the supporting performances of Sydney Pollack and particularly Tom Wilkinson and Tilda Swinton that really make the movie. Both of them aren't on the screen for a whole lot of the time but they make quite an impact, in their own contrasting styles.
Definitely worth watching.
7.5/10
Far From Heaven (2002) - Todd Haynes' homage to Douglas Sirk goes beyond mere imitation and is quite a good movie in its own right. Its very confidently made, there's not one scene really out of place in this variation on the very 50's melodramatic story of a bored upper class housewife who has an affair with her gardener.
It's beautifully shot and features one amazing piece of acting from Julianne Moore which, unfortunately, is also the movie's weakness. Moore is so good that the other main actors (who do a reasonable job) never look like matching her and she completely dominates all her scenes with them, which is kind of out of place with her character. It's a strange nitpick, but it did distract me from an otherwise fine film.
7/10
Miracle on 34th Street (1947) - I was pleasantly surprised. I was expecting some sort of oversentimental and preachy movie about the spirit of christmas but instead got a reasonably amusing movie with good characterisations that doesn’t really get oversentimental till the very end. Its preposterously unbelievable in parts, but I think that's the point, the movie playing out like a fantasy that it wants its audience to go along with.
7/10
Noise (2007) - fairly decent aussie movie from earlier in the year that is pretty well made, with lots of emphasis on character. It has kind of a weird balance, emphasising scenes and plot points that are not taken anywhere whilst glossing over others even though the movie keeps returning to them.
The title refers to the constant ringing (Tinnitus) in the main character's ear, a policeman who is relegated to light night duty after his diagnosis. His story mixes with that of a witness to the murderer of 7 people on a local train who lives in the area that the policeman is appointed to for night duty. It shard to pin what this movie is about, but it works to an extent, although I have to say the ending just completely left me puzzled.
6.5/10
V For Vendetta (2 Years Late)
#2080 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/10/27 01:33:36
I didn't have much expectations but it had rather good stuff. I could push aside a lot of the fantasy elements... maybe it has aged rather well? Think of the fall of the Berlin wall, the Ukrainian Orange Revolution etc... I think these are interesting themes to explore the power vs the people, perhaps someone could do a more serious fiction movie about this stuff.
The next paragraphs will contain spoilers.
I also noted how we were left in the shadow of what really was the truth, through the Finch police chief character. Everybody's trying to pull the wool over his eyes. In the end we don't know for sure if st Mary really was a government plot or not, for example...
I found some of the "you can die for your ideas" stuff pretty strong too. People have to some degree done that throughout history.
I don't know if any of you have been in any mass demonstrations. I've seen some small scale stuff from pretty close, with riot police etc. though no tear gas.
There were some small and medium stupidities here and there... (and btw is Stephen Fry limited to gay roles? :) )
Maybe it helped that I didn't have so much expectations for the movie, that usually tends to do them good. :)
I'd say it stands out from the mass of movies. It actually had some more interesting overarching themes and not the usual "baddies are threatening my family/the city/the country", although the execution was cheesy at times...
#2081 posted by nitin [124.168.101.147] on 2007/10/27 01:44:33
I should really try that again, I absolutely hated it when I saw it :)
V For Vendetta
#2082 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/27 02:30:22
Does melodrama quite well... it's galvanizing if you let it suck you in.
I Liked It, Overall
#2083 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.106] on 2007/10/27 02:36:58
I recall Kinn not liking Portman's 50's
style English accent. I say that just made me want to bend her over the table
even more! Her American accent can sound prep school at times too so maybe she should do a few Wes Anderson films.
Now That I Think Of It
#2084 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/10/27 02:38:55
it IS generic in a way, it's the baddies who are destroying the country, just that they are already in power and have already done it. :)
Yes, Another Excuse For An Angry Rant!
#2085 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 02:49:53
Ok, V for Vendetta, was crap. I don't know if I disliked it as much as 300, maybe they're about equal, but I disliked V for Vendetta for different reasons. It sucks in different ways.
If they would have just stuck with action sequences, and made it a "The Crow" type revenge flick set in a stylized city, that would be OK. As it is, they throw in all kinds of stuff that makes it nice and retarded.
First, the love story. This isn't a huuge gripe, but it's cheesily done, predictable, lame, and cliched. The angry guy on a mission and the woman trying to be let in and explore his pain. Please.
That's nothing compared to the politics though. My god. The movie is an example of the kind of mindset that makes people think that liberals are idiots. Don't get me wrong, I'm more to the left than to the right, but this was absolutely ridiculous. Anyone who has actually read 1984, will recognize this film as a cheap attempt to imitate Orwell's political nightmare. It only takes the superficial elements from Orwell's system, and clearly has no idea what 1984 was actually about. Furthermore, they paste apparent Bush-administration issues on to this shallow veneer. The Bush Administration may be a lot of bad things, but fascists they are not. It is so utterly ideologically blind and irresponsible to portray this world "just around the corner" where gay people sitting in their own houses have their doors kicked down and are arrested for being gay. Please! Even if the Democrats were out of power for the next 30 years such a thing would never happen. And the guy who is arrested for HAVING A COPY OF THE KORAN. Wtf, come on. Furthermore how could he even make fun of the government on the air, if it really is a fascist system?
And the way this was all portrayed was so wishy-washy and melodramatic, that even if I did believe in this exact liberal bullshit, that the Bush administration is a bigger threat to western values than Islam, and that the family values crowd really wants to send the FBI door to door looking for gays, I still wouldn't have been able to buy into it in the movie.
I thought the Wachowskis were overrated after Matrix 1, which was a decent movie, with a marketing campaign that pissed me off. The sequels convinced me that their talent was shaky. This film has now convinced me that they're assholes. Not quite M Night Shamylan caliber, but still.
Don't get me wrong, I think terrorism is a cool subject, and a film with a protagonist terrorist is something I _WOULD_ find fascinating if it wasn't dog shit.
Oh, And
#2086 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 02:52:52
This movie I was dragged along to and did not personally pick. Like Transformers and 300, which I also hated.
I Hated
#2087 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/10/27 03:17:17
The Crow. Made no sense.
I also hated Izo. (A japanese revenge sword perforation flick)
And Kill Bill made no sense either.
Maybe it's a different tone in TV, the action sequences and the sounds aren't so overwhelming and it's more about the plot...
(Btw I did search the thread for earlier reviews and saw you hated VforV passionately. :) )
From Memory
#2088 posted by nitin [124.168.101.147] on 2007/10/27 03:17:29
my main problem with it was that it was basically what should have been a straightforward action film parading around as pseudo-intellectual fluff (like the 2 matrix sequels).
He's a freedom fighter and not a terrorist because he only blows up empty buildings and doesnt actually kill innocent people. Right...
Oh, and Portman was the best thing about the movie.
But Kill Bill
#2089 posted by nitin [124.168.101.147] on 2007/10/27 03:18:50
never tries to be anything more than it is (till kill bill 2 comes along but that's another story).
Tronyn
#2090 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/10/27 03:24:22
have you ever heard what it was like in Stalin's Russia. People did just disappear, and you could be arrested for having some book, and shot, or sometimes even for no reason just to fill up some quota.
You have chosen to take a view and think that it's Bush etc etc... (and maybe the film makers thought so too), so then it makes the more fascinating points about totalitarian control by accident.
These things have happened in human history. And there are things happening elsewhere than just USA and Britain and Australia and general western world at the moment... I wonder what it's like in North Korea. I've read one book by a former North Korean agent, an extremely fascinating read.
Just a short while ago there was a wave of revolutions in eastern Europe ffs. I remember watching in TV the body of Ceausescu (or was it his wife?), the former tyrant of Romania, shot on the street.
Yes
#2091 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 04:34:39
I've taken Russian history. I realize what Stalinism was like, and I realize that that's what 1984 is about. "V" did not represent that kind of society effectively. I understand Stalinism: the filmmakers do not.
There could be no free media in a Stalinist system. There would be no game shows live, on the air. In 1984 everything is retrospectively edited, and freedom of speech doesn't exist. The world of "V" shows the superficial aspects of the 1984 system (columns of soldiers in the streets, omnipresent screens, angry authority figures) without grasping the actual structure behind it. In such a system, Western-style life, as it is portrayed in the film, would be completely impossible. People going about their jobs would be completely different. It wouldn't be a few thugs trying to rape people after curfew, oh no.
I don't like Bush, but the filmmakers were clearly targeting his government, the radio guy that's killed is Rush Limbaugh (no fan of that fat asshole am I), and so forth. If someone made a mainstream film that was as far biased to the right, as that is to the left, it would be called propaganda. And that's what "V" is.
And yes, the cast was pretty good. So was the visual style.
Bambuz: Revenge flicks, well what about Payback? Or Braveheart, or the Patriot, or Apocalypto, or anything else Mel Gibson's ever made? Lol.
I Agree With Inertia Though
#2092 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.189] on 2007/10/27 05:57:06
that from a standpoint of pure operatic melodrama, V for Vendetta works. As for the politics, I'm use to ignoring Hollywood's politics and just turning the old brain off for the show. It's show business.
There are a few movies that are political and don't really insult the intelligence all that much, Beaty's Reds, with its interviews with disillusioned ex revolutionaries (funny how the Social Democrats in these revolutions, from Russia to Cuba and so on always find themselves at the wrong end of the barrel of their Communist brethren), but I don't expect much from Hollywood.
Even their own story gets distorted and get the Clooney pat on back treatment. Here I'm talking about the history behind the Hollywood Red scare. What they wont tell you is the fact these purges were self inflicted and intercine. In the late 1930's there were two camps controling the actor and screenwriter guilds, Stalinist and Trotskyites.
When the US aligned with Uncle Joe, the Stalinist purged Trotskyites from important positions.
At the end of the war and the start of the Cold War(Truman didn't take to Stalin like the fawning idiot FDR), Trotskyites got their revenge and purged the Stalinist. The ComIntern types are quite brilliant though. They got a few doofus Conservatives in Congress like Tail Gunner Joe to do their dirty work for them.
It's interesting stuff but don't expect Hollywood to ever tell that story. BTW, I learned about this through independent research. I found
an old pamphleteer type booklet in a political book shop in Georgetown written by Trotsky's protégé James Burnham who learned early on that to accomplish what you are after get the enemy to do your work for you.
Still a great lesson I see in practice to this day.
Alright
#2093 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 06:39:22
Interesting post HT. Hindsight's 20/20 but it's amazing still that westerners could think Stalin (or even Lenin) was in any way good. I understand that you're never going to get much out of Hollywood, in terms of, well, anything.
I guess the basic point here (in case it wasn't already obvious) is that, in this matter at least, I'm still an idealist. I know that television and hollywood is 99% bullshit, in more ways than it's possible to describe, but I just find that hard to accept. We have an open society, with free speech and individual freedom, and an economy that is so far above subsistence that it can support stories that cost hundreds of millions to produce. Is this really the best we can do?
I'm aware of plenty of decent counterarguments, such as: 1) Idiots enjoy idiot entertainment just as much as smart people enjoy smart people entertainment: what's the difference. 2) Smart people are only smart genetically, or possibly through their educational opportunities, and have no superiority over idiots. 3) Smart people may tell themselves that stupidity is enforced or produced by the media, because they are emotionally invested in thinking that everyone would agree with them and be like them if it wasn't for X enemy, onto which they project all of their anti-idiot frustration.
Basically, the point is, illegitimate and unrealistic as my point of view may be, I won't give it up, because I can't. As Dostoyevsky said (horrible midnight paraphrase) "Just because I'm faced with a wall that is indestructable, does not mean I will not bang my head against it."
Tronyn Has A Point
#2094 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/27 07:03:27
but I completely disagree with his use of the liberal/conservative dichotomy. We all know how imprecise and thus, mostly useless, that is. I suspect you guys know what I think about that, so I'll let it rest :)
The movie didn't directly promote the idea of anarchism (a type of societal organization based on maximal citizen participation) like the comics did, but the film did promote the idea of personal empowerment. This is far more useful than most movies, that focus on symptoms of whatever problems dominate our lives, yet ignore the causes of those problems.*
The film worked for me because it did justice to how ordinary people turn into activists: an angry person is one thing, but educating that person how to use their passion to fight against that which makes he or she angry is something else altogether. It is very, very rewarding to see that change happen, both in oneself and in others.
* By symptoms vs. problems, I am referring to the difference between cause and effect. Examples:
1) huge gaps in wealth between communities (and countries) vs. private ownership of capital (a probable cause);
2) weird and bad love/romance type stuff vs. patriarchy and gender roles;
3) war vs. incentives for politicians to stay in power;
3) mafia violence and drugs vs. widespread dissatisfaction with politics' response to community needs;
4) et cetera.
Hey
#2095 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.189] on 2007/10/27 07:19:23
Basically, the point is, illegitimate and unrealistic as my point of view may be
I enjoyed reading your post and I didn't find it illegitimate at all. Orwell is a tremendous influence on me as well. I've recently reread Homage to Catalonia and he was one of those disillusioned Social Democrats who find his presumed allies to be even more criminal than the enemy he was fighting.
I'd recommend reading F. A. Hayek's The Road to Serfdom as it was on Orwell's mind when he wrote 1984. When I finally got around to reading it, it occurred to me, 'hey, there is Blair and his Nanny-Cam state!'. It is about the subtle relinquishment of liberties usually brought about to make government processes more efficient.
Hayek's influence on Libertarians is well known but his influence on civil liberty oriented liberals was very strong as well.
Seriously If They Wanted To Fuck The Politics
#2096 posted by nitin [124.168.101.147] on 2007/10/27 08:19:52
then that's what they should have done.
But they didnt. And if you're going to go down the path, do it right.
And for what it's it worth, I thought Good night and Good Luck was awesome, it may not be the perfect history lesson, but that knows what it wants to be and never goes for anything else.
Inertia
#2097 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 08:40:52
Very valid points, supported by good examples. I too like the idea that if something is wrong, even if it is controlled by vested interests on the highest levels, it could be destroyed by people who have been affected by the policy/problem on the most obvious level. My first experience of this idea was when I was a kid and read Tom Clancy's Without Remorse, where a widower has his girlfriend murdered by drug dealers and decides that that is enough, and goes on a paramilitary vigilante justice spree against the mafia. I don't believe that any more, I think soft drugs should be legalized, but I enjoy the message of it, which also reminds me of all those Mel Gibson and revenge movies.
I love revenge against people who deserve it. It's a great way to exorcise feelings of anger (as I do myself have). However, I never use emotion when evaluating politics, I use reason. And I consider politics that uses emotion rather than reason, like "V," to be dishonest propaganda. I know that almost all TV politics is like this - but it's all still evil to me, left, right or centre.
Tronyn
#2098 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/27 08:45:17
Do you think emotion can ("should"?) be used to enhance the motivation to use reason to achieve desired results?
Inertia
#2099 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 08:55:06
Emotion can fuel politics in most excellent directions. "X (discrimination, sexism, fascism, secret police) is wrong," is a conviction that has basically built our modern world for us today.
But I say fuck emotion the fraction of a second that it creates ideological blind spots. Emotion can never override reason in a useful political conversation. If each side just throws emotionally charged cliches at each other, what kind of productivity is that?
Each side must be able to converse with the other using a common dialogue of reason. Biases of various sorts (X economic, social, ethnic, religious group are good/bad/dishonest/honest) corrupt reasonable discussions. Anyone with an ideological preconcieved notion, is going to force the facts to fit that belief. And that is going to destroy honesty on some level.
Tronyn
#2100 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/27 10:33:34
I agree! But, mustn't each of us make at least one assumption in order to enter into a debate? Is that necessarily ideological?
Heh
#2101 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 11:14:40
That is a very good and difficult point.
At this point, I have almost nothing to say, and have to admit that my argument is ultimately intuitive and subjective.
But never the less I say this:
There is a different between ideologies of reason (to praise free speech, equal rights) and ideologies of emotion (to call nazism wrong intuitively - which it is.)
Fuck, it's late, and I'm caught in a tough spot here. But I hope to explain, that emotion cannot provide any kind real reason or policy. I know this because I can recognize a very simple, very real, difference between my political philosophies, and my... fantasies.
Question About "I Now Pronounce You Chuck And Larry"
#2102 posted by czg [83.253.234.172] on 2007/10/27 11:42:07
Do we get to see Kevin James naked, possibly faking gay sex?
That is all I want, really
:)
#2103 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/27 11:44:29
The way I deal with that quandary is to ask, "what assumption(s) lead to the results I intuitively want?"
There's nothing wrong with acknowledging the fact that most thinking activity is unconscious, nor with the notion that axioms are necessary in order to start using logic! (How would we use logical operations, if they aren't defined?)
I Don't Get It :(
#2104 posted by czg [83.253.234.172] on 2007/10/27 11:50:21
Let Me Put It This Way
#2105 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 19:34:13
I think the French revolution was awesome. To me there is a huge gut appeal of just taking rich people, and chopping off their heads. It would be so awesome to legally constrain people and infiltrate their lives, and then murder them.
But luckily I've established a strong dividing line between emotions and reason in politics. I know that we have to have capitalism, and that it's completely unreasonable to have class warfare. Furthermore, I recognize that the TYPE of people that I hate, have just as much right to free speech as I do. Emotionally, all the crazy shit that Rousseau wrote really appeals to me. But with reason I can see that it's insane and could never work.
#2106 posted by Trinca [89.181.98.22] on 2007/10/27 20:37:17
"I Now Pronounce You Chuck And Larry" fun movie this one :)
Tronyn
#2107 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/27 21:29:50
I know that we have to have capitalism, and that it's completely unreasonable to have class warfare.
Of all posts on func, your's is now number one in the category of "stuff I completely disagree with." :)
http://www.zmag.org/parecon/pelac.... (notice the "free book" part)
"anarchism simplified": http://question-everything.mahost....
another: http://www.zmag.org/chomsky/interv...
"Criticisms of Capitalism": http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criti...
IMO, one of the most widely believed fallacies is the notion that neoliberal capitalism engenders efficiency and innovation.
“When the highwayman holds his gun to your head, you turn your valuables over to him. You 'consent' alright, but you do so because you cannot help yourself, because you are compelled by his gun. Are you not compelled to work for an employer? Your need compels you, just as the highwayman’s gun.”
-- Alexander Berkman
Interetsting
#2108 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/27 22:45:51
"the failure of historical alternatives to capitalism does not rule out the possibility that the principles of equity, solidarity, self management, and diversity may replace free trade"
Ok, so he's headed off my first objection, that Marxism has always created bad societies.
I will read your links. I am interested. So far the first writer seems more aware than the average "capitalism is bad" philosopher. But even though he does address that first point, and it's true that capitalism has flaws and creates problems, I really appreciate the society we have, and think it's the best compared to all historical alternatives. Perhaps it's possible to replace it with something even better, but I'm very, very wary of communism (even though I love the idea of a revolution overthrowing all the shit about society that I hate, including shopping mall materialism).
Thanks For Completely Shitting Up An Otherwise Decent Thread, Fatties
#2109 posted by czg [83.253.234.172] on 2007/10/28 01:34:26
a revolution overthrowing all the shit about society that I hate, including shopping mall materialism
There is so much I hate about you I cannot even believe it.
Tronyn
#2110 posted by inertia [134.53.120.119] on 2007/10/28 02:33:59
I think you need more precise definitions of words like liberty, communism, capitalism, and so on. Part of the problem with philosophy is confusion about terminology! :)
#2111 posted by gibbie [69.140.12.215] on 2007/10/28 02:02:58
:)
CZG
#2112 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/28 16:04:00
While I don't get to have any control over your emotions, I can remind you that you're not obliged to read things that you don't like.
We'll take it to the politics thread next time.
I Thought 'V' For Vendetta
#2113 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/10/28 17:06:42
was Kick-Ass! I liked the bit at the end where he killed all of those fucking cops and nasty ministers or whoever they were, and then died.
'V, oh no, V!'
Go and pretend to shoot stuff.
I Thought 'V' For Vendetta
#2114 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/10/28 17:07:57
was Kick-Ass! I liked the bit at the end where he killed all of those fucking cops and nasty ministers or whoever they were, and then died.
'V, oh no, V!'
Go and pretend to shoot stuff.
Reason
#2115 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/10/29 00:32:44
vs emotion. You can't deduce values just from facts. You end up with questions like what's the meaning of life etc... If you pretend that you can, then you're just fooling yourself. You always have to take some axioms. This btw is the very common reason to call to a god, because you have to have some original source where your values come from.
People of course have an inbuilt sensitivity of unjustice etc. because we have mirror cells and are a co-operating species...
I don't like the Mel Gibson revenge flicks, haven't analyzed it that well... kinda seem just stupid.
In practically all Hollywood flicks the baddies are just pure filth with all the cliche baddie marks. A friend remarked how it's so individual and never anyone elses fault that a person turns to crime or does something bad. Perhaps the best example is Sin City. The baddie is highlighted in yellow ffs.
I'd have to read about different revolutions, but yeah, you are right in the movie just taking some cliches but not the whole control network that would exist, for example censorship... It's childish in that way.
Fight Club is one movie I didn't like that much, but many others did. I won't list the reasons here, but it still deals with the same revolution thing and people just wanting an easy and stupid life.
Fight Club
#2116 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/29 02:23:13
I thought was good, because it was self-aware enough to be humorous and ironic about the subject of how stupid society can get, and how much fun it would be to go on a rampage against that kind of bullshit. It's a world apart from something that tries to be serious, but fails, like "V."
As for reason/emotion, my main point is that political ideologies end up pre-judging who's good and bad, without much concern for looking at facts on a case by case basis. The world isn't convenient enough to just have a list of good and bad social institutions, and both sides continually promote this view, and rarely look at the real points and ideas on the other side. You can't blanket-apply one idea or ideology to every problem and expect it to work.
I like Mel Gibson. He is a competent filmmaker who is kind of obsessed with violence, but one doesn't have to take it seriously all the time. Indeed it's kind of funny how he replays the same revenge-violence stuff, sometimes very seriously (Braveheart), other times with more humor (Payback). But with all of the directors who are either hacks (ie, Michael Bay) or pretentious assholes (ie, M Night Shamylan), someone you can count on to be competent and sometimes creative is pretty good.
#2117 posted by megaman [84.63.52.100] on 2007/10/29 03:45:52
why are you bitching about shamylan so much?
He's My Idea Of Everything Any Kind Of Artist, Should Not Be.
#2118 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/29 04:48:29
Luckily with every film he makes, his anti-cult following grows.
There was a decent quick knock at him on one of the latest Southparks. Oh man I love those guys.
Tronym...
#2119 posted by Bal [83.199.79.140] on 2007/10/29 09:59:52
Hah, yeah that scene from the last southpark with Shamylan, Bay and Gibson was pretty hilarious, and pretty much spot on.
(Yeah my only occasion to jump in to this conversation is when someone mentions southpark, should I be worrying?)
Went to see Stardust the other day, was entertaining enough, the music was bloody annoying and sometimes it was pretty cheesy, but it had it's moments and was still a nice light-hearted fantasy adventure movie.
Shymalan
#2120 posted by nitin [124.168.114.157] on 2007/10/29 12:20:46
made 1.5 decent films. I do think he has a keen sense of suspense, he just uses it in mainly stupid films.
I Watched 'IT'
#2121 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/10/29 13:02:46
Never seen it before, but I read the book a long time ago (thought it was a very good book), and Im undecided about the film. It was a bit crap. Its too much of an ambitious thing to make that book into a film, cause of the timescale. King put a lot of detail in the book. I almost wish I hadnt seen the film because it has clouded my memory of the book.
It was OK though, but as the endof the book the town collapses and theres a massive flood, and they missed that out of the film.
I Think
#2122 posted by megaman [84.63.17.220] on 2007/10/29 14:06:28
you all might have misunderstood the movies (or maybe i did, and he really sucks). :)
e.g. i thought signs totally sucked the first time i saw it; but after a second & third watch i think it totally rocks.
It does take the 'american aliens horror'-scenario, but what's interesting about it (imho, of course) is that it puts the focus on the characters - to an extent that i wouldn't really describe it as a sci-fi alien movie anymore.
Village is similar, if you watch it with the expectation of a horror movie, it WILL suck, because it isn't such a movie.
I absolutely love the music and the visuals in his films. that's what it's all about for me, and those two elements alone make them great movies.
i have no idea if he's an asshole like portrayed in sp, but i don't really care ;)
I Admit He's Good At Suspense
#2123 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/29 16:21:23
And I never watched his films with a pre-judged view of genre. He does have his own sort of genre, really.
It's just that his ego is so massive, and you can tell in his films, that he's trying to prove that he's a genius. This continually interferes with my enjoyment of the otherwise decent suspense stuff that he does.
Anyone seen "Altered"? It's more of a conventional take on the American-Aliens horror genre, but I found it quite effective. Some rednecks whose lives were ruined by an alleged alien abduction attempt to get revenge. The director of this was involved in Blair Witch Project (the first one).
"Those aren't ideas, those are special effects!"
"I don't... understand the difference."
"I know you don't! Get him out of here!"
lol.
All You Need To Know About 'Payback'
#2124 posted by starbuck [129.215.58.110] on 2007/10/29 17:01:51
PROSTITUTE: I've still got 5 minutes left honey...
MEL GIBSON: Then go boil an egg.
Mel Gibson delivered that whole film like he was Frank Drebin out of Naked Gun, but it wasn't funny. Oh no, it wasn't funny at all.
Btw
#2125 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/10/29 19:44:56
Blair Witch sucked.
Maybe if I were more of a city boy who has never been to the woods.
Guys, list some revolution flicks. There's "Goodby Lenin" which was hilarious (I recommend it), although it wasn't that realistic or serious all the time. About East Germany.
Then Kolja (or is it Kolya), about Czechoslovakia. But the movie as a whole isn't that good, and it's only a side thing.
Payback
#2126 posted by nitin [124.168.114.157] on 2007/10/29 21:48:09
is a crappy version of Point Blank, I didnt think it was that funny either.
Blair Witch
#2127 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2007/10/29 23:02:16
You got me, I grew up in the city. But my friend who grew up in the north, whose parents own land up in the northern forests, thought it was good.
Subjective, yeah, but I think it's one of the better horror movies in the last 10 years. Altered isn't shot in the same way, but it has a sweet vibe of paranoia.
Blair Witch
#2128 posted by bearwitchproject [83.251.214.200] on 2007/10/30 00:25:59
Ok build up ending in total anti-climax.
#2129 posted by nitin [124.168.114.157] on 2007/10/30 12:44:21
my 2 cents an Oldboy. I dont see how it comes across as anything other than (well done) pulpy entertainment.
Zodiac - well it looks great and is reasonably well acted, but the scripting is heavily flawed. David Fincher's sprawling 2.5+ hr film is too episodic (at least in the first half) and doesn’t really have characters, it has ciphers that are used to progress the plot along. That’s the biggest problem, the plot in general is interesting but without having characters of any substance, it doesn’t amount to much. Mark Ruffalo comes out best, but all he's doing is making the best out of a very underwritten role.
As for the subject matter itself (ie the impact of an unresolved serial killer case on the investigators and community), the 2003 Korean film Memories of Murder does it much better justice.
6.5-7/10
Malcolm X (1992) - it has some great moments, but most of them are buried in unnecessary scenes and unnecessary nostalgia. Spike Lee's overlong film could have been great had some of the material been trimmed so that the power of the great scenes could have more impact.
You have to give credit to Lee for changing the tone of the film to match the changing of the character throughout his life, so that it goes from the giddiness of low level crime to religious sermon to blindly political and finally to unwanted reason. I'm not a huge Denzel Washington fan either, especially in his more recent stuff with Tony Scott, but here he is extraordinary. It's a fantastic performance that doesn’t draw attention to itself but instead to the character (which is where I have problems with some of the more recent biopic portrayals like Ray etc).
Still, as mentioned earlier, I found the length to be unnecessary (especially some of the early scenes) and despite the material being fascinating, the overall movie wasn’t as impressive.
6-6-5/10
Ask The Dust (2006) - Robert Towne returns to LA in his debut feature as director (he wrote Chinatown), but the results are of a far lesser quality. Colin Farrell and Salma Hayek star in this story of a writer looking to make it big but struggling with writer's block and moving to LA for inspiration. It's gorgeously shot, it definitely has a Chinatown feel to it, but unfortunately the writing is nowhere near the same level. Farrell does well with what is a limited role but Hayek is terrible and the script in general is pretty poor.
5/10
Corpse Bride - Tim Burton's return to stop motion animation is a pale imitation of his earlier The Nightmare Before Christmas which was wittier, had more plot and better characters. This new film is still a pleasure to look at but although its short, the script runs out ideas very quickly. There's some nice jokes but on the whole its pretty thin material struggling to make its short running time.
5.5-6/10
The Crow (1994) - Alex Proyas is a very talented man and he lends this considerable flair and style which elevates it to decent level even though the material is not exactly great. Brandon Lee is fairly intense as the title character but its mainly Proyas' interpretation of the world the comic is meant to be set in that keeps you interested. The fact that it's a convincing depiction and there's no CG also makes it a very refreshing change (hello 300).
6-6.5/10
Argh
#2130 posted by nitin [124.168.114.157] on 2007/10/30 12:45:23
replace Oldboy with blair witch project. i dont ven know how that happened.
Old School (2003)
#2131 posted by Spirit [213.39.214.176] on 2007/10/30 20:14:59
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt030288...
Luke Wilson, Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughn, super sexy girls, how could this be bad. (Not to mention a short scene with the Stiffler and one other "famous" guy I already forgot about right now.)
Could have had some more love (the ending was a bit underwhelming) but it was fun and great. Ellen Pompeo, god she has a smile.
#2132 posted by nitin [124.168.53.6] on 2007/11/02 10:13:51
Eastern Promises - moody, brutal thriller/drama from the Cronenberg-Mortensen team and it's as good as their last offering, A History of Violence. The script is tight, every plot point and character action fits together nicely without feeling too forced or contrived.
Mortensen is very good as Nicolai, an english russian mafia heavy man, and he is well supported by Naomi Watts and an in form Vincent Cassel (who finally gets a decent english language role).
Cronenberg directs well, mixing restraint with unflinching (although gratuitous) violence and the end result is pretty satisfying.
7.5/10
A Prairie Home Companion (2006) - Robert Altman's last film, a fictional behind the scenes look at the final show of a long running radio series in the american midwest that gets suddenly cancelled, is reasonably entertaining thanks to some hilarious conversations and very good performances from the ensemble cast.
However, that's all it is, a string of conversations, some interesting and some not so much. There's nothing really holding it together, apart from what looks like whimsical nostalgia, and it really doesn’t amount to much apart from being a nice diversion.
6/10
Slings and Arrows Season 2 - not as good as season 1, but that's a realtive comparison, because it's still a damn fine season of tv. It retains almost the same format as season 1, which makes it seem not a fresh but otherwise it's darker and whackier with the same high level of writing and acting.
7.5/10
#2133 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/11/02 10:41:04
Mean Machine - Watched this again last night. Its a copy of a remake , and also a remake in itself (IMHO). Anyone who's seen The Longest Yard (old or new) or the original Mean Machine will know what I'm talking about. The screenplay of all four movies is almost identical. Mean Machine (2000?, Vinnie Jones) is by far my favourite. Its very very funny. About screws playing guards at fooball (or soccer if your American). In each film theres always a guy who plays a psycho whos in maximum security and this film has Jason Statham (sp?) who plays 'The Monk', a martial Scottish martial arts expert, who ends up in goals. His daydreaming scenes are priceless. Also there is a 'lesson' in how to play dirty given by The Monk using Danny Dyers as a model, where he demonstrates 26 different 'moves' which could be used to immobalise the opponents. All in all hilarious, not too long, well scripted, well worth a watch:
8/10
Martial Scottish Martial Arts Expert
#2134 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/11/02 10:42:24
I know, I know...
#2135 posted by nitin [203.214.64.250] on 2007/11/05 09:36:00
Weeds Season 1 - even though I found quite a lot of the drama and comedy to be forced and/or predictable, on the whole this was quite a decent show mainly due to the performances. Mary Louise Parker does a really good job, even on the numerous occasions the script lets her down, and most of the others rise above the material too.
But I shouldn’t criticise the scripting too much, even though its not as clever as it thinks it is, it hits the mark regularly enough for it to be satisfying.
7/10
Criss Cross (1949) - excellent film noir from Robert Siodmak. Burt Lancaster does really well here, his character seems to be aware he is doomed right from the start and Lanacaster portrays the reluctant acceptance of his situation very well. Tight script with neat supporting performances and its shot very well too.
7.5/10
Ugetsu (1953) - hmm, it's pretty well made in almost all areas and has some very neat ideas, but it just didn’t work for me beyond an appreciation level. Kenji Mizoguchi's period fantasy about the actions of two farmers during civil war in the samurai times is part neo-realist cinema and part ghost story, with both parts fairly convincing in their execution.
The story, however, is very melodramatic and I personally think melodrama requires a heightened form of acting to work and the neo-realist approach adopted here did not work for me in that aspect.
Still, well worth checking out.
6.5/10
The New World (2005) - Definitely overlong, and the last half an hour doesn’t work as well as it should, but otherwise I found this to be an excellent take on the Pocahontas story with engaging performances from Colin Farrell, newcomer Q'orianka Kilcher and Christian Bale.
Terence Malick obviously has a slow, ponderous and meditative style, and it's one which annoyed me no end in The Thin Red Line, but here I found it captivating in managing to transplant you right in the middle of where this movie takes place. The cinematography here goes beyond just pretty imagery and actually makes you feel the location, so much so that after spending 2 hours in the jungle when the movie finally shifts to England for a brief period, it seems as alien to the viewer as it does to one of the characters.
Now admittedly the style and pace is not for everyone and will most likely bore many when coupled with the lack of any real story, but this is in my mind what cinema is all about. A good story is a bonus but when you have such command over sound and image and are able to extract performances from your cast that support the atmosphere, narrative drive is not all that necessary in my book.
7.5/10
The Little Foxes (1941) - very well acted and scripted (if predictable) melodrama by William Wyler starring Bette Davis. Davis is terrific as usual and the supporting cast are wonderful, most of them underplaying their scenes with Davis but still having as much impact.
William Wyler also must have had a thing for staging crucial end scenes on stairways, this is the third movie (the others being Jezebel and The Heiress) of his where I've noticed it.
7.5/10
Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949) - gold black comedy but it would be a disservice to the great script in calling it just that. The great thing about the writing is that although its often wickedly clever, it manages to also be touching and dramatically convincing when it needs to be. Great ending too.
Add to that the brilliant performance(s) of Alec Guiness who plays 8 members of a royal family that are targeted for murder by an unhappy descendant (an excellent and deadpan Dennis Price) and you have a great film.
8/10
I Have A Dream
#2136 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/11/05 21:35:59
that someday a movie will be made that has this sort of impressionistic experience of nature's magic and all that stuff. I hoped New World could have been it but no.
Yeah Right
#2137 posted by hey hey [76.1.235.88] on 2007/11/06 00:41:59
your all gay
Woah
#2138 posted by Spirit [213.39.219.154] on 2007/11/06 20:22:43
I just watched Hoodwinked. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt044353...
Great! If you like animation movies but are bored by all the generic crap nowadays (after Shrek and Ice Age), then give it a try. I was really well surprised.
#2139 posted by nitin [124.168.116.82] on 2007/11/12 14:23:58
Macbeth (1971) - easily the best film version of any shakespeare play I've seen, Roman Polanski's extremely literate adaptation will not be for everyone, mainly because it retains the dialogue as written, but it is most definitely a great film with tons of atmosphere and excellent performances.
Its not perfect by any means, some of the slight changes such as casting Francesca Annis as a much younger Lady Macbeth dont work, but otherwise it manages to do the tale justice, quite a feat considering how many difficult adaptable scenes there are in the play.
It also alters the ending ever so slightly, but it's masterstroke, wrapping up the movie beautifully and providing a nice tie in to history.
8/10
And Some More
#2140 posted by nitin [124.168.116.82] on 2007/11/13 09:07:25
Weeds Season 2 - writing's a little bit better, more chracter development this season but otherwise I still think it could be sharper and darker and less forced. Still there are moments of hilarity and the performances are top notch.
7/10
Ball of Fire (1941) - for a movie written by Billy Wilder and directed by Howard Hawks, I found it extremely disappointing. The writng lacks spark (although you can see the template for Some Like it Hot being put into place) and the direction seems lazy.
The only thing going for it is Barbara Stanwyck's performance, and even that is a rehash of her far better work from the same year in The Lady Eve.
5/10
Layer Cake - terrible wannabe brit gangster flick. It lacks the humour of Lock Stock... and does not have the hard edge that it thinks it does. Its basically continously ceasless exposition that makes sure you cant care less about the plot or any characters.
Daniel Craig is decent but his performance is wasted in a movie as bad as this.
4.5/10
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978) - Havent seen any other versions of the tale (including the new one from a month or so ago) but Philip Kaufman's 70's version has a nice atmosphere of paranoia and unease.
Unfortunately, that is offset by some silly scripting and dodgy music and acting. Not a bad film, but not really a good one either.
6/10
#2141 posted by nitin [210.84.48.176] on 2007/11/16 11:22:29
24 Season 6 - not a bad season overall, and definitely better than the last, but it's plagued by the recent problem of a few silly twists too many and repetitive plotlines across seasons.
I was enjoying it reasonably till it became obvious the writers had nowhere to go about 3/4 of the way through.
6/10
Italjanskijj Spajjdermen
#2142 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/11/16 23:48:16
I don't know if this is a real movie or not, but.... ITALIAN SPIDERMAN!
http://ziza.ru/2007/11/12/italjans...
Oh Yeah...
#2143 posted by metlslime [71.202.113.29] on 2007/11/17 00:00:16
Japanese Spiderman isn't as cool, but he does have his own giant transforming robot (naturally)...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGx...
So I Know There Was Transformers Discussion Earlier
#2144 posted by nitin [124.168.6.12] on 2007/11/19 11:48:09
Transformers - for most of it, it just reminded me of why I hate Michael Bay as one poorly shot action scene after another was broken up with bad jokes and an even worse plot. Seriously, I know plot isnt the point of a movie like this, but there should be thresholds of stupidity that should be acknowledged.
Anyway, the last half hour finally delivers in a pretty impressive staging of carnage and chaos that has enough entertaining sequences to not allow the spastic editing of Bay's style hamper it. And John Torturro's gung-ho marine also saved it somewhat.
5.5-6/10
Aaawww
#2145 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/11/19 11:57:22
I havent seen it yet, but I'm well looking forwards to it!! Hope its not gonna be another Godzilla, or even worse - Doom!
What else has Bay directed?
#2146 posted by nitin [124.168.6.12] on 2007/11/19 12:06:19
armageddon, the rock, the island, bad boys 1 & 2.
and its no godzilla or doom.
Good
#2147 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/11/19 12:39:02
Godizza was so bad it was good ;-)
'Godizza'
#2148 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.26] on 2007/11/19 12:39:34
Hm
#2149 posted by megaman [84.63.20.14] on 2007/11/20 04:10:38
i just saw four marriages and a funeral (?!) again (saw it as a kid in cinema, iirc).
Hm, I'm surprised how much i like it. The marriages are shot in the most entertaining way, I'm kinda wondering what techniques make them so entertaining.
The end is a bit clichee, of course (and very.. ninetyish?), but a great movie if you just want to have some fun.
#2150 posted by nitin [124.168.5.66] on 2007/11/21 09:21:58
The Spanish Prisoner (1997) - another fairly solid drama-thriller by David Mamet that is generally well written but is, as usual, a little too clever for its own good. As the name suggests, the general story is a variation on the well known confidence scam, but Mamet folds the plot back onto itself multiple times and, importantly, in entertaining ways. The cast is good, including Steve Martin in a rare serious role, and the Mamet dialogue doesn’t disappoint.
7/10
#2151 posted by nitin [210.84.2.86] on 2007/11/23 07:48:23
Entourage Season 3 Part 2 - out of all the seasons I've seen (and I know this is technically part 2), probably enjoyed this one the most. It may have something to do with the fact that it was only 8 episodes rather than the usual 12, so it didn’t feel like it was marking time as often as some of the others. Anyway, overall, it's another season of reasonably well made, entertaining but forgettable stuff.
7/10
#2152 posted by Zwiffle [67.53.148.10] on 2007/11/24 03:02:24
Vacancy and Weirdsville.Both good movies.
Vacancy was REALLY good and intense. Once the action started, it didn't stop and kept the suspense high the entire time. If you like games like Manhunt you will probably like this movie. There's no gore, only some blood, with emphasis on the situation instead of shock value.
Weirdsville was also a good, offbeat comedy about heroine addicts, russian drug pushers, satanic cults and an army of midget medievalists. Pretty funny, some parts were better than others. Quite an odd little movie.
American Gangster
#2153 posted by inertia [24.164.66.190] on 2007/11/25 09:05:14
Any opinions? To me, it seemed like a prequel to The Departed.
#2154 posted by nitin [210.84.62.254] on 2007/11/26 08:59:22
Jarhead - its well made and finely acted but it doesn’t really have a whole lot to say that hasn’t already been said in numerous better films. In fact, a lot of its best scenes are directly derivative of similar scenes in other greater movies and most of those scenes are shot in a similar fashion as a homage, so the comparison just becomes inevitable.
Every now and then though, it manages to have a fresh spin on things such as the climactic walk through the oil fields and the ironic use of the helicopter attack scene from Apocalypse Now being used to pump up recruits.
6.5/10
The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser (1974) - I havent seen any Werner Herzog before but this is a very odd little film. Based on the true story in the early 1800's of a man who is released in the town of Nuremberg after having spent the majority of his life in a cellar by himself, it is at times full of fascinating scenes that are both funny and touching.
I thought Bruno S was quite remarkable in the main role (although you have to wonder how much of it was personal experience given that he himself was institutionalised for 20 years and had no formal training as an actor), maintaining the right balance of innocence, obliviousness and curiosity.
However, despite all the good stuff, I had trouble getting into it at times because of a tendency by Herzog to wallow in very drawn out and oblique scenes that in my opinion detracted from the more stronger emotional scenes.
6.5/10
#2155 posted by nitin [210.84.25.63] on 2007/12/01 00:20:08
The Princess Bride (1987) - rewatch, never liked this fantasy satire the first time around and pretty much had the same feeling this time around.
Still find it unfunny as a satire and don’t buy the non-satirical parts of it either. Pity because I have liked most of Rob Reiner's stuff and have also liked william goldman's scripts in the past too.
5/10
The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976) - John Cassavetes' film is really a character study dressed up as a crime drama. Although it drags and is awkwardly paced, it is most definitely the work of a very talented filmmaker with a very careful eye for character development.
The story is not really worth talking about, suffice to say that a deluded strip club owner finds himself with a gambling debt and is forced to commit the titular action as repayment, but the treatment is fascinating.
Ben Gazzara is awesome in the main role of Cosmo Vitelli, a man who has convinced himself that he is amazing and that his personally scripted and staged strip shows offer the world "more than the usual".
Some tighter editing would have made this a great film but as it stands the numerous drawn out scenes at the club, even though they serve to help us understand the extent of vitelli's delusion, hamper the narrative quite a bit.
7/10
#2156 posted by nitin [210.84.25.63] on 2007/12/03 09:46:27
Slings and Arrows Season 3 - the final season of the show continues the excellent blend of drama and comedy and actually manages to avoid the pitfall of season 2 where the format followed was identical to that of season 1.
It seems as the makers were aware that this was going to be the final season quite early on, and as such, the show focuses on different themes than previous seasons (also reflected in the play being mounted in this season, King Lear).
The writing is still top notch and the performances are consistently impressive across the board (sarah polley also guest stars).
7.5/10
A Fistful of Dynamite (1971) - one of sergio leone's unsung films, coming in between his Dollars trilogy and Once Upon a Time in the West, probably not surprising given that it's unlike most of his other westerns.
The focus is very much on character and not on atmosphere as is usually the case. That focus is the key to the film's success because otherwise it's a bit of a mess, a film that constantly feels like its struggling to find the right tone throughout its overlong running time.
Rod Steiger and James Coburn provide engaging performances though, and coupled with the interesting character development, make the whole experience worthwhile.
6.5/10
Hud (1963) - Great film, pretty much faultless in all departments. Its one of those movies which you can tell will be great within the first five minutes when elmer bernstein's score gels with the cinematography so well. And once the actors get on screen, its hard to take your eyes off them.
Of all the great Paul Newman performances, I have always thought Cool Hand Luke and The Hustler to be the most definitive. However, his work here is quite possibly even better. And it's matched by equally brilliant work by Melvyn Douglas and Patrcial Neal.
On top of all that, the script is great, one of those works where the dialgoue is able to give voice and articulate its themes without sounding phoney, preachy or overwritten.
9/10
Double Indemnity (1944)
#2157 posted by bambuz [80.221.169.201] on 2007/12/03 20:37:09
This just worked. The strong characters (especially Keyes!)
No nonsense really. My parents liked it too.
Not the movie of a century or an epic, it was just a good film, clean in its style.
Billy Wilder was the director and participated in the script too according to IMDB, based on James McCain's novel.
I generally feel that novels often make better movies and sometimes plays too, than scripts made for movies or plays.
I Think Double Indemnity Is Great
#2158 posted by nitin [210.84.25.63] on 2007/12/03 21:48:13
personally think of it as one of the greatest dialogue scripts.
#2159 posted by nitin [124.168.22.252] on 2007/12/05 10:51:10
El Aura (2005) - minimalist masterpiece. Argentina's 2005 oscar entry is a brooding, moody and Melvillian drama/thriller which unfolds in a careful and captivating fashion. The plot is deceptively simple, an introverted taxidermist preoccupied with the notion of a perfect crime finds himself in cirucmstances that allow him to try out his fantasy, but the movie is a complex and intelligent affair.
Also, late director Fabian Belsinki goes a bit Rashomon with his camerawork in the Patagonian forests and the cinematography and sound design are brilliant. The lead performance by Ricardo Darin is also pretty compelling.
8/10
#2160 posted by nitin [124.168.22.252] on 2007/12/07 10:31:17
Monsieur Hire (1989) - well made, interesting story and characters but I just don’t like it. Patrice Leconte was obviously going for enigmatic and touching in this movie about a middle aged social recluse who is a suspect in a murder of a young girl and does not help his situation by watching a young woman Rear Window style every evening, but I found it to be predictable and dull.
It's really strange because the plot explains all motivations for the characters but I still didn’t buy any of them.
5/10
Oceans 13 - I really liked the retro look and feel that Soderbergh got going in this one and overall found it be reasonably entertaining and enjoyable even though the story is extremely weak and it is not in the least way realistic (I don’t think it ever tries to be). But it's definitely fun, which is more than what could be said about the last outing.
6/10
#2161 posted by nitin [124.168.22.252] on 2007/12/08 05:18:35
Angels in America - had never seen the whole thing on tv so finally got around to it.
It must have been a very difficult thing to adapt because even though the writing is of a very high quality, it's always remindng you that it's from a play. But Mike Nichols does enough, without being showy, to make sure that the visuals become just as important as the words.
Similarly, the actors (with the exception of Emma Thompson who I thought was the weakest of the ensemble) also make small and varied adjustments to their dialogues to make it seem more conversational and natural.
Having said all of that the real star is the writing, stagey or otherwise, with Tony Kushner doing a staggering job in combining humour and drama in beautifully complex and layered dialogue that is just a pleasure to hear.
9/10
In A Conterpoint To Well Written, Thorough, Reasoned Reviews
#2162 posted by starbuck [82.41.206.175] on 2007/12/09 03:43:15
Casablanca
Yes.
The Golden Compass
No.
Starbuck
#2163 posted by gone [91.122.98.207] on 2007/12/12 23:52:20
this begs for a huge "ORLY?"
Golden Compass has a good idea tho, and some say that the books are good
Golden Compass
#2164 posted by Blitz [24.19.173.121] on 2007/12/13 10:33:23
Was laughably bad. Even if I had enjoyed it, I would be furious because the ending literally was like "OK well nothing at all has been resolved, but if you want to find out more, we plan on making 8 more of these movies so see ya then!!"
It had some nice art and animation and stuff, but there were a *LOT* of scenes that had really bad looking animations. The girl riding the bear across the snowy terrain comes to mind.
The acting was shitty, the plot veered off in 800 directions and everything that happened was completely predictable.
Argh
#2165 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.85] on 2007/12/13 10:52:04
Guys, don't watch the Dark Materials movies (Golden Compass etc). Read the books if you think you might like them. They are so wonderful and no movie (especially no hollywood movie) could ever grab the magic. They are stories meant for reading and fantasizing, not for watching as a movie.
I've been trying to avoid getting my fantasy ruined by the terrible pictures I have seen of it so far. Seriously, even less filmable than Lord of the Rings.
#2166 posted by nitin [203.217.76.135] on 2007/12/17 10:48:17
Apocalypto - nothing more than a chase flick with high production values and an interesting setting, and it never really tries to be anything more, but its very well made. Yes it's violent, and because it's not a mob movie or a "horror" movie or a Tarantino movie, that's apparently unacceptable and wrong. Seriously speaking, it's gratuitous every now and then, but given that it was set in a society that was built around sacrifice and survival, it is not out of place.
Anyway, enough with the ranting. Its suspenseful, exciting, has characters that you can connect with and transports you to the ancient Mayan world, and later on into the jungle, pretty commendably. I also quite liked the music and sound design.
Having said all of that, there are a couple of eye rolling moments and for what it is, its also slightly overlong. And the ending is interesting.
7.5/10
Shooter - its movies like this that make the Bourne films, good as they are, look like masterpieces. Completely banal, predictable as clockwork, may as well have been acted by correspondence and poorly shot. And to top it all off it seems to think its an intelligent film because it makes a few statements about the current state of the world, right before Mark Wahlberg says another corny line and continues on his vigilante spree.
3/10
Scandal (1950) - minor early Kurosawa that doesn’t quite work, you can see he is still trying to find his feet, but its still quite an interesting watch because moments of genius still shine through and its theme of celebrity obsession and media attention are inescapable today.
Toshiro Mifune puts in another great turn as a famous painter who is inadvertently snapped by paparazzi in the company of a famous female singer but is unwilling to be exploited by the media without a fight. The opening is brilliant, Kurosawa setting up proceedings very efficiently, but things start to get a bit overly melodramatic when Takeshi Shimura's morally dubious attorney turns up to defend Mifune's character.
I am not quite sure the scenes with Shimura's character work and in this case it probably would have been better if Kurosawa stuck with making a film that focused solely on the main plot.
6/10
...
#2167 posted by starbuck [77.100.123.82] on 2007/12/18 16:00:07
Die Hard 4.0
^ Yeah that's the UK title, I guess they conjectured that Live Free or Die Hard would cause British people to vomit uncontrollably, and rightly so. I wasn't expecting great things as I hadn't heard almost anything about it, and almost no one in the UK went to see it I think, but this is one fucking awesome action flick. Pure entertainment in the exact same vein as the first 3 films, but better than all of them combined.
Granted, the scheme being executed by the bad guys is absolutely retarded, and the main bad dude is certainly no Alan Rickman, but the action and stunts are good enough that it just doesn't matter. The computer hacking stuff is hilarious, literally up there with 'Hackers' for sheer unfeasibility. In the Die Hard 4 world, you could use your mobile phone to hack into your neighbour's microwave so that it overheated their pizza, no problem.
I don't want to over-analyse this film, but it's probably more entertaining than you think it'll be... the 'Mac' kid from the apple adverts isn't bad at all, and McClane has a hot daughter. That is all.
Enchanted
Completely deserved what I got for going to see this. Horrible even if you can handle and enjoy most Disney. Also, why is the Disney cartoon girl such a hottie, but when she comes into the real world she's a 7 at best?
Dark Knight Trailer
#2168 posted by Tronyn [216.197.229.171] on 2007/12/18 17:22:08
I think they have been doing the marketing campaign for this movie too far ahead of time, but most of what they've released makes the movie look awesome. I just hope they have the Joker do _really_ fucked up stuff, not the usual comic book villain "rob banks, fight police, take hero's girlfriend hostage." (which 1989 Joker did too) I'm talking Hannibal Lecter stuff, torture and so forth, the character needs to be disturbing, he is a psychopath not a dastardly evildoer.
Dark Knight Trailer
#2169 posted by nitin [203.217.76.135] on 2007/12/18 22:43:58
looks great.
Die Hard 4
#2170 posted by DaZ [80.41.162.230] on 2007/12/19 15:48:09
I saw it too, while I sort of agree with starbucks review I cant believe he rates it above die hard 1, which is undoubtedly the best in the series by far!
Yes the whole hacking thing in 4 is hilarious, made more funny by the old lady sitting behind me asking her grand daughter if people can really do all this stuff with computers, the reply was a disturbing "of course!" ...
And mmmmm dark knight trailer, looks fantastic!
#2171 posted by nitin [203.217.80.62] on 2007/12/23 09:24:52
Klute (1971)<b/> - a little dated now in some aspects, I'm sure it was quite frank and provocative when it came out, and as a mystery/thriller it's pretty average.
But what it does have is some well done characterisation that is brought to life by some excellent acting from Jane Fonda (and to a lesser extent Donald Sutherland even though his character is underwritten) and some highly impressive cinematography by the great Gordon Willis (its not pretty or anything just very effective and suitable). The end result is a reasonably good film that although predictable excels in its character moments.
6.5-7/10
Bollocks
#2172 posted by nakasuhito [75.165.245.1] on 2007/12/23 21:59:35
the dark knight trailer looks pretty cool. never liked the 90's batman films, but i did like the design on the penguin batman one.
anyway, this one looks like i'll be pretty cool stuff. :)
still, if its out in june, i agree they are showing this stuff too early.
#2173 posted by nitin [124.168.114.108] on 2007/12/28 09:24:19
proper comments later along with other stuff I have seen recently, but the hype's true, No Country For Old Men is instant classic material.
#2174 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/05 05:37:46
seen a lot lately, some reviews :
Atonement - I wasnt a huge fan of Pride and Prejudice, mainly because of the leads' performances, but you could tell Joe Wright had talent. That talent's on full display for pretty much the entirety of his followup, which is an excellent film (even Keira Knightley puts in an above average performance).
The first half period drama is much better than the second half at war, even though the second half is established with that astonishing tracking shot. Its almost as if Wright manages to say all that he needs to say with that 5 min shot at the start of the second half and ends up repeating rather than adding to what he managed to achieve with that shot.
However, the ending manages to overcome the not quite so potent second half, with Vanessa Redgrave outacting anything in sight with her face. The four-five minute closeup of her is as good and makes just as much an impact as the Dunkirk tracking shot.
7.5/10
The Darjeeling Limited - Wes Anderson bounces back after the abysmal Life Aquatic and even though its not really any different to his previous stuff, its still a funny and well etched character comedy.
The 8 min short before the film that sets up Jason Schwartzman's character is also quite good and is pretty much necessary viewing because otherwise Schwartzman's character comes off as fairly one dimensional.
Owen Wilson and Schwartzman do well, even though its kind of repetitive as they've done this sort of stuff before with Anderson. But Adrien Brody surprises, showing deft comic timing and a sense of dry laconin humour.
Anderson provides some nice touches too, such as the cabin epilogue at the end, but I thought he got a little too cute at times especially towards the end.
7.5/10
No Country for Old Men - Easily the best film of the year and the jewel in Joel and Ethan Coen's filmography I think. They've made some excellent stuff over the years but this is a highpoint.
At first glance, it seems to be a very non-Coen movie, lacking the quirky characters and humour that are the staple of pretty much all their films. But on closer inspection, the film style is basically a more refined version of what they did in Blood Simple.
For close to two hours, its a perfectly executed suspense film, with no scene or shot out of place. Then it flips itself over in the last ten minutes to become a different beast, and I think its those last 10 min make it great and yet, at the same time, are also the movie's slightly weak point.
Its not the content of those last 10 min, thats great, but the manner in which the themes of the film are turned on their head is a bit jarring. I dont think the last ten minutes should have been changed or omitted, they are perfectly done, but th transition could perhaps have been slightly better executed.
Still, instant classic.
8.5/10
More to come.
#2175 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/05 07:21:29
more :
The Bicycle Thieves (1948) - genuine classic from Vittorio de Sica about a poor man (and his son) in post-war Rome looking for his stolen bicycle on which his livelihood depends.
Extremely simple in almost every aspect but very very effective. Its almost as if De Sica simply stumbled upon the man on the street and decided to shoot around him during this part of his life.
Essential viewing if you are at all into films.
8.5/10
Brief Encounter (1945) - another classic from David Lean, this is very unlike his later epics but is still an extremely well made melodrama set in post war middle class Britain. The performances are great and the direction is delicate, focusing on small gestures that say a lot.
Stays with you well after the end.
8.5/10
Breach - above average followup to Shattered Glass by Billy Ray. It takes a while to really become interesting and even then its better when it focuses on the relationship between Chris Cooper and Ryan Phillippe's characters than the standard thriller cliches.
6.5/10
The Bourne Ultimatum - the weakest of the three but still quite a good film. Lacks the character moments of the first two films, which is really what separated them from your usual crap action movie, but the pacing is fast enough for that to not be a huge concern. Still not a fan of the shooting style, but having said that, I enjoyed most of the action set pieces.
7/10
The Cider House Rules - very unfocused and oversentimental, two aspects that usually ruin a film for me, but this time it works. I dont know why, the direction is nothing great, the performances are ok. It may have been the story venturing into areas that I wasnt expecting every now and then.
6.5/10
#2176 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/07 10:28:14
Broken Flowers (2005) - It's slow paced but theres plenty on offer for those looking for something a bit different. The performances are quite good and the writing is top notch, carefully revealing details about Bill Murray's main character thrugh each encounter with one of his previous lovers.
Theres also some nice dry humour throughout.
7/10
Cries and Whispers (1972) - when he's not on song, watching an Ingmar Bergman movie is still interesting but not all that satisfying or engaging. When he is going, they are *very* emotionally involving and thats certainly the case here in this swedish period piece about two sisters looking after a thrid sister that is close to death.
It's probably one of the most painful movies I have ever seen (although I should add that its not necessarily depressing) and contains some incredible acting and stunning cinematography.
8-8.5/10
Full Metal Jacket - rewatch after many years and I still think its terrible.
Sure there's things to like, mainly on a technical level, but I found the tone to be way off. More importantly, this is probably the most disconnected I have felt with any movie I have seen.
A lot of people like at least the initial training half, but I find even that to be fairly weak and unconvincing in its execution.
4.5/10
Full Metal Jacket !!??!?!!!
#2177 posted by RickyT23 [81.132.175.238] on 2008/01/07 10:35:48
I LOVE that film!
I remember January 1st 2000 - I was suffering from alcohol poisoning from the night before, sat at a friends house being sick repeatedly into a bucket, watching that film!! I'll never forget it, truly amazing performances specifically by the person who played Pvt Gober Pile and the Drill Sargent, but also (I should know his name) Pvt Joker at the end - a true sense of the reality of the horrors of war. The message for me was that, when left wandering what the point of it all was, there is no real point to war...
#2178 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/07 13:10:03
well if thats what you got out of it, great, because that's definitely what it was going for.
With me though, it just left me saying hmm...
Nitin
#2179 posted by than [220.47.251.83] on 2008/01/07 15:09:49
Are you a film critic by profession? I'm astounded by the number of films you manage to watch :)
Or are you just trying to watch every film ever made before you die? (sorry if that's the case :)
Than
#2180 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2008/01/07 15:41:27
I guess he is watching the movies in "fast forward" mode :P Otherwize, how could he have time to watch them all ?
Porco Rosso
#2181 posted by Spirit [213.39.169.243] on 2008/01/07 17:11:28
I watched Porco Rosso (Kurenai no buta (1992)) on the weekend. It is a Studio Ghibli movie and as it seems the other, famous Ghibli titles quite "overshine" this one.
It is hard for me to write about it, English is not strong in me today. :P
It has easily became my new favorite Ghibli movie. I just love "bitter and sarcastic lonely guy talks about the happenings in inner voice" (Hello, Sin City!) but I guess one has to be a bit like that oneself.
Highly recommended if you are a Ghibli fan or just a movie lover who does not think of Anime as soulless childish crap.
I Am Legend
#2182 posted by Kinn [81.159.127.69] on 2008/01/07 22:57:42
I Am Legend - bah what a missed opportunity, and it started out so promising. Up to the halfway mark it had been a really good, atmospheric "last man on earth" film that really drew you in - then the Zompires turned up in all their cartoonish shittily-CG-rendered "glory" and it turned into a pretty boring, formulaic and contrived shoot-em-up with bad graphics. It finished pretty abruptly too - as if the director just hit the 90-minute mark, went "Fuck it" and stormed off set to spend the rest of the production schedule (and money) buggering prostitutes.
Than
#2183 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/07 23:17:46
no, just a hobby like gaming.
I'm just lucky enough to have a job that leaves me plenty of spare time:) Plus at the moment I'm on holidays.
#2184 posted by metlslime [70.232.148.93] on 2008/01/08 02:55:39
i am legend -- left me saying "meh" also, I think because though it was well done, it seemed to be entirely composed of ideas that are well-worn, familiar, and not at all suprising. I know the book was written decades ago, but it's possible to inject new details into a book conversion even if the book is old.
sweeny todd -- kind of nice; music didn't do much for me, but some early-on plot twists felt fresh. I guess another meh, but like i am legend, had some quality going on but didn't really satisfy me.
death proof -- finally saw this, really enjoyed it; tarantino seems to really understand what he is doing with each movie. I agree with nitin about the elements of self-indulgence, but I think he brings enough positive stuff to a movie to make it worth watching anyway.
blade runner final cut -- not much is different here, other than Zorba shooting first. It seems to be basically the director's cut with a tiny amount of new footage (like 5 seconds here or there) and some digital cleanup. I still like the movie, and it was interesting to see that on the big screen, the special effects are more obvious than on my old VHS copy.
i think i've run out of mehs, so i'll stop now.
Metl
#2185 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/08 03:12:28
they changes the ending for I am Legend from what I understand, and that's a shame because the book had a good one.
And death proof would have been great if it stopped after the first hlf :)
Spirit
#2186 posted by ijed [190.20.81.251] on 2008/01/08 03:49:45
New Ghibli film? But is it better or worse - you say overshined by the previous' but your new favourite - ?
And Some More
#2187 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/08 07:37:41
Hangover Square (1945) - B grade 40's horror/thriller almost given A grade treatment by John Brahm. Its moody, looks superb and is reasonably well acted. The plot on the other hand is not quite up to scratch and lets it down quite a bit.
5.5/10
The Last King of Scotland - excellent film from documentary maker Kevin Macdonald. The first 90 min are spot on, the movie managing to capture the different tones and moods of its different characters quite distinctively. There is also an uneasy buildup of tension throughout. Performances are top notch with Whitaker, James McAvoy and Gillian Anderson producing some very fine work.
The last 20 min or so arent quite up to scratch though with the movie descending into routine thriller material.
7.5/10
East of Eden (1955) - Not a fan of Rebel Without a Cause, and after having seen this, this is really the one James Dean should be remembered for.
This is almost a great film, a weak ending IMHO drags it down, and Elia Kazan can take much of the credit for its quality. But it really is James Dean's central performance that makes it what it is, he is a very a mannered performer, but its no less magnetic because of it.
Some of the scenes in this are as great as anything ever made.
7.5/10
Rescue Dawn (2006) - Christian Bale is on some sort of roll at the moment, he can do no wrong. He puts in another fine performance and combined with Werner Herzog's fetish for authenticity makes this film about the story of vietnamese POW Dieter Dengler a very personal experience for the viewer.
It's quite slow and some of the other actors are a bit annoying with their performances but if you can get past those issues this is well worth watching.
7/10
Ijed
#2188 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/08 07:39:49
porco rosso is an old ghibli film, 1992 like spirit says.
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDR...
Ijed
#2189 posted by Spirit [91.62.26.103] on 2008/01/08 09:34:46
"overshined" not by quality but by not being mentioned like the others. I stumbled over it randomly.
I suggest not reading/watching that review, it gives away quite a lot. I hate when reviews or trailers or samples do that. "I know that scene has to come somewhen, I saw it already". Bah!
Ok
#2190 posted by ijed [216.241.20.2] on 2008/01/08 13:53:46
Probably why I hadn't heard of it then. My favourite of the bunch is probably Spirited away still, rather than Princess Mononoke.
It's kind of Disney style but skewed and a bit more grim, as their name says - a fresh wind.
Bah
#2191 posted by ijed [216.241.20.2] on 2008/01/08 13:55:15
I'd order it but Amazon doesn't deliver out here; I'll have to do some hunting in those 'shop' things.
Some Movies I've Seen Recently...
#2192 posted by Blitz [67.168.57.20] on 2008/01/09 12:19:47
The Good:
Juno
A genuinely funny, feel good movie about an immature teenage girl dealing with a pregnancy she's not ready for. The movie has some cringeworthy dialogue that tries too hard at times (e.g. the phrase "honest to blog" delivered as if people actually talk like that) but the good things about it helped it from getting ruined by the dialogue.
It's superb when it's not trying too hard to seem hip or in touch with youth culture, and still pretty good even when it is. Ellen Page is the perfect actress to play Juno -- she doesn't look a day older than 16 but has enough experience and restraint at 21 to master the role whereas an actual 16 year old might get caught up in the quirkiness of it all.
Children of Men
Incredible movie about a dystopian future in which mankind has suddenly lost the ability to reproduce. Brilliant pacing with perfectly placed periods of tension and resolution.
It's a essentially a message movie with a few different messages about the meaning of life, maintaining hope for the future and faith in humankind. The kind of movie that leaves you a little stunned when it's over.
Little Miss Sunshine
Good light-hearted fare about a dysfunctional family on a roadtrip. Lots of funny scenes and great performances by everyone involved, especially the little girl.
Motorcycle Diaries
A great movie about a roadtrip across the entire South American continent that Che Guevara and his friend took when they were young lads. They took the trip merely as a way to find adventure they ended up consumed by the injustices they saw along the way (Che moreso than his friend obviously)
The acting by Gael García Bernal was excellent in that he did a great job portraying the transformation of a reasonably normal kid into a passionate revolutionary. A beautifully shot movie and wonderfully paced -- to the point where I was genuinely disappointed when it was over because I wanted the story to go on forever. I seriously hope the same cast and crew do a movie about the latter half of Che's life but I doubt that'd happen.
The Devil and Daniel Johnston
I actually just watched this tonight (thanks Lun) and you can watch it too! http://video.google.com/videoplay?...
A great documentary about Daniel Johnston -- a seriously mentally ill singer/songwriter who almost broke through to great success several times in his career only to have his illness hold him back. A good chronicle of the man's life, it's also a great reminder of the mysterious ways the brain drives some people to see the world through artistic eyes and how that same drive can ultimately transform into out and out dysfunction.
It's really touching to hear his parents talk about his struggles and I admit I got a little choked up when his dad was talking about the event that occured when he and Daniel were flying home from a gig later in his career. A great movie.
No Country for Old Men
Brilliant, tense, action packed meditation on the consequences of one's actions, fate and evil. Some very nice photography throughout the movie and great performances by the leads.
Another movie with a brilliant sense of pace -- the way it makes the viewer feel like they're being chased by a vengeful, hellish demon right along with the main character is outstanding.
The Bad:
Syriana
A wannabe Dickensian tale without Dickens' sensibility to tie things together coherently or present some kind of story along the way. Structurally very reminiscent of Traffic (and well it should since it has the same writer) it lacks the the sense of cohesion and relevance that made that movie so good.
The acting overall was pretty poor as well.
Matt Damon channels Good Will Hunting via oil economics in a scene so bad and bereft of realistic emotion that it will make you laugh out loud.
George Clooney plays himself. Awesome.
28 Weeks Later
Definitely the worst movie I've seen in a while. It's essentially exactly the same as its predecessor 28 Days Later which defeats the entire purpose of having a sequel. It feels more like the sequels that get made for video games than a movie sequel. There was really no reason for this movie to be made other than to try and be a modern "Dawn/Day/Night of the Dead" franchise which it was never meant to be in the first place.
Robert Carlyle who's been so brilliant in so many movies (especially Trainspotting) is especially bland in this movie, but the character they wrote for him was shitty to begin with so I don't blame him. An utterly pointless movie that rehashes 28 Days Later to the point where you'd probably go insane if you watched them back to back.
Blitz
#2193 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/09 14:37:52
agree on children of men, no country for old men and mototcycle diaries. I found Syriana to be above average despite being try hard complex and Little Miss Sunshine just didnt work for me.
Juno's opening here soon, quite want to see that.
Havent seen the others
#2194 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/10 01:39:59
They Live by Night - if it looks like noir and smells like noir, it must be noir? Not when its made by Nicholas Ray.
Much like On Dangerous Ground and In a Lonely Place, Ray dresses up what really is a character piece in noir sensibility and the result is again an excellent film. There's some very nifty use of light and shadow here to accentuate the scenes but its the care shown towards the characters that really makes it work.
The movie itself was later remade by Robert Altman as Thieves Like Us and inspired Arthur Penn's Bonnie and Clyde.
7.5/10
Ivan's Childhood (1962) - Surprisingly narrative oriented movie from the great Andrei Tarkovsky and the narrative seem to hamper him. Or maybe its the average script which struggles to connect the audience with what should be a sympathetic story of a young russian boy used as a scout by the army during the WWII.
Nevertheless, Tarkovsky imbues the film with his trademark meditative touches, such as the boy's surreal dreams and non visual flashbacks, and is once again a genius with his camera.
7/10
My Man Godfrey (1936) - excellent screwball comedy, william powell and carole lombard make a great pairing, the supporting cast is terrific and the script is great in both its dramatic and extremely witty comedic moments.
7.5/10
The Sopranos Season 6 Part 2 - I found the whole last season (part 1 included) to be a big disappointment. Season 5 had the show back on track and the first half of Part 1 was excellent too.
But everything from then on was just very very average. This Part still has some very good episodes but there's some very shoddily written ones too.
Also, events that should have been given more time were rushed, and plotlines that should have been avoided got way too much screentime. If the Vito storyline was the shocker last time, its the AJ storyline this time.
I didnt mind the final episode that much, but overall, given that they 20 episodes to wrap this season up, it felt very underwhelming.
6.5/10
#2195 posted by blah [70.64.169.16] on 2008/01/10 07:18:45
I really truly believe, that they gave the AJ storyline so might weight because they had planned to have him die in the last episode. Only, to have backed on in the editing room
It Was So Much The Weight Per Se
#2196 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/11 02:01:44
but that whole storyline was poorly written and the actor that plays AJ is one of the weakest on he show which didnt help either.
Some more :
Viridiana (1961) - Luis Bunuel's controversial movie about the short period in the life of a soon-to-become-nun during and after she visits her late aunt's widower husband for a few days is one his less surreal efforts but still just as effective as his more bizarre work.
The first half is very strong, the movie introducing some very interesting characters and going off in all sorts of unexpected directions. The second half, which generated a lot of the controversy, is still good, but I found it to be a bit too heavy handed and predictable.
7/10
Zatoichi (2003) - Not bad update by Takeshi Kitano of the Zatoichi series of films about a blind samurai swordsman but it never really got going for me. There's some inspired parts but on the whole I found it to be very unoriginal.
5.5/10
Knocked Up - way too long for what it is, and it especially drags towards the end, but otherwise it's smartly written and performed and also pretty funny.
6.5-7/10
Rome Season 2 - A bit surprised as it probably turned out a little bit better than season 1. The first season was held together by Ciaran Hinds as Julius Caesar an with his absence from this season, I wasnt expecting much.
But the show does some very interesting things with Mark Antony and Octavian Caesar this time around and once again is at its strongest when it sticks to the political side of the roman empire. Havig said that, there is less annoying soap opera this time in the lives of the two soldier characters which is also a plus.
7/10
Y Tu Mama Tambien (2001) - Above average teen road movie by Alfonso Cuaron which is less annoying than its amercian counterparts because it has characters you dont want to punch out after a few minutes.
Its also helped by some very natural performances, some reasonably funny moments and a breakaway technique used to make the places (and inhabitants of those places) they go to a part of the picture.
What doesnt work is a voiceover technique that fills you in on what was probablly intended to be interesting little details but starts to grate very early on. It also takes to long to do what it set out to do.
Still, a solid watch.
6/10
You See
#2197 posted by ijed [216.241.20.2] on 2008/01/11 13:08:16
An impressive amount of films nitin, I never find the time, too many games. Thanks for the continuing reviews though, gives a good guideline the next time I want to see anything.
Volver
#2198 posted by bambuz [88.195.25.59] on 2008/01/13 01:29:24
Been a bit sick the last few days and watched some telly.
I thought this would be a crap Spanish flick about hysterical women complaining about their problems. I was dead wrong.
It's one of the best films in near history I've seen.
It's hard to tell about a good movie without spoiling it. But you know that I'm very critical of most stuff and I definitely urge you to see this, if you movies that actually have plots, as well as strong and different lifelike characters.
Rome Season 2
#2199 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2008/01/13 01:35:48
Mark Anthony was the best character by far, I liked him in season one also. It's so awesome how everyone considers him "a destructive brute" but he's so fake-polite with that smirk of his, and he always has to sit at tables and listen to petitioners and you can just tell he hates politics.
The finale was really lame though, it was so obvious who was going to die and why, although they did handle the increasing sociopath aspect of Octavian fairly well. The series as a whole was decent (I like historical settings and R ratings), but not worth canceling Deadwood over.
Volver Planning To See That Soon
#2200 posted by nitin [210.84.3.254] on 2008/01/13 01:44:06
I've liked all of almodovar's recent stuff, All About My Mother being the greatest.
tronyn, pretty much agree with all that. And yes good as it was, definitely not worth Deadwood's cancellation.
One Thing
#2201 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2008/01/13 09:20:37
which is interesting (if perhaps obvious) about Rome season 2, is that the good guy (Anthony) seems like he could kill anyone as soon as look at them, but actually has an inherent emotional compass, whereas the bad guy (Octavian) seems nice and friendly but has no morality whatsoever. Maybe I've been watching Dark Knight trailers and No Country For Old Men too much lately, but it seems like people are opting for this type of moral opposition more and more these days. The externally bad guy is good and the externally good guy is bad.
Last Lot Of Holiday Viewing
#2202 posted by nitin [124.168.34.45] on 2008/01/14 08:49:31
A Place in the Sun (1951) - very good noirish melodrama from George Stevens that unfolds pretty well and has pretty good performances from Montgomery Clift, Shelley Winters and Elizabeth Taylor. I would also bet good money that Woody Allen had this in mind when he made Match Point.
7/10
Diary of a Country Priest (1951) - great film about a lonely, sick and generally unliked country priest in France who faces the question of whether it is enough to have only god as your companion. Its extremely well made in a very unobtrusive style by Robert Bresson and thankfully does not preach anything, but makes some very powerful points no matter what your stand on the issue of religion is.
8/10
Veronica Mars Season 3 - easily the weakest of the three seasons, especially the last 5-6 epsiodes but I still found it to be not too far from the quality of the previous seasons. Sure, the major story arcs are gone and the side characters are relegated to cameo status but I've never really cared for those previously and the thing I've always liked about the show are the dialogue and kristen bell. And both of those were still top notch this season.
6.5/10
The Stranger (1946) - orson welles does hitchcock in this moody thriller that has a propestrous plot but good characterisations and direction. The suspense is first rate too.
7/10
Dexter Season 1 - pretty decent show, although I think it plays it too safe with the concept it has and needs to be darker in order to mine the material to its fullest extent.
7/10
Kansas City Confidential (1952) - fairly solid minor noir that is well written and well performed.
7/10
Late Spring (1949) - very good family drama from yasujiro ozu that moves pretty slowly but that pace allows Satsuko Hara to put in a really strong performance as a woman in post war japan on whom marriage is forced by society.
7/10
The Face of Another (1966) - second film of hiroshi teshigahara that I have seen, and so far I think the man was a better philosopher than he was a filmmaker.
This has a concept similar to that in Face Off but approaches it more from a philosophical and existential point of view rather than as an excuse for a (pretty good) action film. Anyway, the film is a mish mash of approaches and ideas that, while interesting in themselves, are never presented in a coherent or consistent manner.
6/10
Die Hard 4 - like the last two, its nowhere near the quality of the first because it forgets to build its action and doesn’t have a villain to match Hans Gruber. The action scenes are pretty well staged but are overly silly and preposterous from the start.
6/10
Heroes Season 1 - first half is much better than the second half (with the exception of the very first episode which is very very average) but the longer it goes on, the sillier it gets. By the end the silliness level is pretty high and the plot holes fairly big.
Still, most of it is pretty decent with interesting characters and, at least initially, interesting themes.
7/10
Volver - Almodovar's latest is quite good although I found some of the plotline to be a bit too predictable and unremarkable. Still the characters and their interactions are interesting, the mood is well done and the perfromances are spot on.
7-7.5/10
Crazy Film...
#2203 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.217.8] on 2008/01/14 15:24:38
Shoot Em Up - This film is enjoyable, if completely absurdly rediculous right from the start! And it is - right from the idea of pulling a carrot from the soil only for it to be clean straight away to the idea of carrying a supply of them around in a rucksack to killing people by ramming one into their eye sockets (more than once this happens) this film is utter nonsense. The script is complete cheese and the plot is just a cheap excuse to have many 'government type highly oganised' bad guys chasing after a lone vigilante-type-character.
But, make no mistake, none of the afforementioned 'bad points' detract from the film overall. You see this film is great fun to watch, very well acted, extremely well directed, looks amazing and is pure entertainment right from the start to the finish. A pure adrenaline rush of gut-wrenching action and glory! Watch it now!!
8-9/10
Dexter
#2204 posted by bambuz [88.195.25.59] on 2008/01/15 04:39:29
I think the basic plot premise is very very stupid but there's a lot of stuff there that's done pretty well nevertheless. Some work of the supporting actors and their dialog etc is nice at times... I didn't watch the early part of the first season much though.
Dexter's sister is that emotion showing counterpart to him and I think is a very important part of the show working. I really can't put my finger on her acting - it's hard to really judge it. And of course it's nice to have some of the problems that are represented as happening to a psychopath when really many ordinary people experience some similar things - I find Dexter one of those characters that are in some way easy to feel similar to, compared to the loud "Friends" type characters in US tv shows (yeah they're different genres and caricatures etc but still...).
So all in all some nice TV drama can be made even if the basic idea is crap. Perhaps just because of that, for some weird reason.
Bambuz
#2205 posted by nitin [124.168.34.45] on 2008/01/15 10:32:56
well the idea is silly but they can do so much more with it,
As for the sister, I dont think its great acting but rather a combination of good casting and writing for her character. their relationship is one of the more believble ones on tv.
Dexter
#2206 posted by megaman [84.63.81.5] on 2008/01/15 13:09:27
Actually, i thought Dexter could've been less 'crime' and more sarcastic black humor character study. They could use the setting and his character a LOT more. But i guess it's hard for an american tv series to cut all the typical series crap.
This was one of the first shows with a main storyline throughout all episodes i actually liked. The La Guertha(?) character is a bit stereotype and overdone, and so is the black cop's writing, but the rest of the guys were pretty much spot on imho. The writing/plot... well, back to the 'series' argument: it could've been a lot more tight (although the show would have a hard time if it was any faster) and thought through, but i guess it's hard to fill 12 episodes. I would like to have it bounce the ball between characters a bit more; the way it is, there's only about 2-3 non-main characters in any given episode.
Also, the obvious 'we need to get a look into all the characters life' part sucks. Why, the main character is emotionally detached and we're in his view most of the time - so don't try to make me feel sorry for the career woman losing her job. But that's the 'typical US show' again :(, and probably adds to the feeling that the show could've worked better with a 'team' of characters that played ball (instead of attention whoring the shit out of eachother ;) AND the main char.)
Guess imho they could've cut the 'catching the serial killer' part a lot, and focused on the main character more. His job looks kinda interesting for example (i doubt it's realistic), and the feel of it would allow it to have lots of influence on his understanding and perception of the world around him. That's the stuff I'm interested in - you have an interesting character, so try to make me understand him and present the world from his POV in an interesting way. I think the show could have worked (better?) if there wouldn't have been a main story line at all, but seperate plots for each episode instead.
I can't stand shit like Prison Break - we're breaking out of a prison - for 15+ fucking episodes. right. The first two episodes were interesting, then it just became zZz :(
That's one thing i liked about dex - it doesn't try so hard to drag the main story over the course of the series.
btw, what's so silly about the idea of it?
Cutting Live People In Pieces
#2207 posted by bambuz [88.195.25.59] on 2008/01/15 17:06:05
to the tune of merry music. And interspersed with light family drama.
OK
#2208 posted by megaman [84.63.69.174] on 2008/01/16 13:39:42
can somebody tell me WHY this did kill the conversation? :o
#2209 posted by nitin [124.168.34.45] on 2008/01/17 08:48:44
"Cutting Live People In Pieces to the tune of merry music. And interspersed with light family drama"
Well I have to say thats not necessarily stupid in my book. Wrong/disturbing depending on your tastes maybe, but not stupid.
The silliness/stupid aspect for me is more with the implementation of Dexter's sociopathy. You never really see it save for the fact that he kills people in the way bambuz described (and to a lesser extent his fascination with the ice truck killer's methods). As it is though, he comes across more as your general vigilante rather than a sociopath.
Basically the sociopathic character serves the plots rather than the plots serving th character. One of the better epsiodes was with the pscyhiatrist that he goes after but also ends up seeing. That episode at least revealed a bit more about the character (even though ultimately it was used to serve plot again).
Bah (includes Spoilers)
#2210 posted by bambuz [88.195.25.59] on 2008/01/17 22:48:28
that was idiocy.
I can't kill him yet, I need another session!
And boom he got his sexuality working.
Le sigh.
#2211 posted by nitin [124.168.34.45] on 2008/01/19 04:35:30
Days of Heaven (1978) - Never thought I would see richard gere in a good film, let alone a great one. The imagery is astounding, the majority of this film has some of the most perfect lighting I have ever seen (and all of it is natural light which is even more staggering).
But its not just a collation of pretty images, I think this movie takes visual storytelling to a whole new level. You don’t really get to know the characters or see the story progress in the conventional sense, which I assume will put off a lot of people, but to me the method employed was at least as effective as conventional storytelling if not more.
8-8.5/10
The Battle of Algiers (1966) - infamous for being used by the Black Panthers and the Palestinian Liberation Organisation as propaganda & training aid and also by the Pentagon in 2003 as an illustration of the problems that might occur in iraq, Gillo Pontecervo's depiction of the main period of the algerian war of independence is also one heck of a film.
The faux documentary filmmaking technique is flawless in its implementation and combined with Ennio Morricone's perfectly aligned score manages to put your right 'there' in the middle of everything. Amazing and extremely fascinating.
9-9.5/10
Pirates of the Carribeann 3 - there's some good stuff in here (the Leone homage was particularly inspired), too bad it's just surrounded in a total mess. Still, it's more than what the all round terrible second film offered.
5/10
What
#2212 posted by negke [82.83.7.154] on 2008/01/19 14:38:16
nitin giving a rating of 9.5? omg!
Last Night On TV.
#2213 posted by Shambler [77.100.140.250] on 2008/01/21 13:45:04
Aliens vs. Predator - what a load of utter toss. Alien(s)/3 were good, Predator was good, AVP2 PC game was good. This isn't and lacks any redeeming features apart from a couple of shots of the Predator looking kinda cool.
(Hardly relevant I know but I had to diss it)
Hmmm....
#2214 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.217.8] on 2008/01/21 14:45:58
Aliens vs. Predator
I tried really hard to like this film!! I dunno, Aliens for me was the best film, although Alien 3 I think was also brilliant. AVP just fell short with character development, script, plot etc. I thought that the film on the whole LOOKED good, and it had a reasonable ending...
Aliens vs Predator: Requiem
I watched this yesterday at the cinema. Dont really know what to say about it. It too lacked any real character development, and the ending really sucked!! I was a bit more brutal than AVP1...
In short, if your a fan of the Alien films, you may enjoy either/both films, but dont expect anything as classy as Aliens. The fight scenes and action sequences in these new films are good!! The acting/plot/script isnt.
:-|
AvP
#2215 posted by Zwiffle [67.53.148.10] on 2008/01/21 15:43:15
I liked it, BUT I wasn't expecting too much in the first place. I went basically to see aliens and predators kill each other, and I was happy with the result (which happened to be aliens and predators killing each other.) Also, alien-predator hybrid.
Didn't see requiem, but yeah I heard it was bad.
P.S. If you expect character development from AvP, shame on you.
Sum Of All Fears
#2216 posted by bambuz [193.167.3.22] on 2008/01/21 15:43:33
That nuke movie from 2002. On TV. Watched half-assedly. It just didn't captivate enough I'm afraid. It was not entirely bad but just felt as if the makers didn't put on a full serious effort.
Zwiffle
#2217 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.217.8] on 2008/01/21 15:52:39
I agree entirely, thats kinda what I'm saying! I enjoyed the films because I too wanted too see Aliens and Predators killing eachother.
I just think that if you compare the new movies with classic Aliens or suchlike, you have fuck all plot! Aliens was a fantastically charismatic film. I mean who cant remember half of the lines out of the movie? It had a degree of classiness about its overall mood/feel. It was all slightly 'fantasy' style. It left just the right amount to the imagination...
The new movies just dont have the same memorability IMHO. Personally, I'm still a fan. I WILL be adding 'Requiem' to my DVD collection when it comes out to buy!!
I'm A Big Fan
#2218 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.119] on 2008/01/21 18:04:42
of both the original Alien and Terminator movies but I hated the second movie in each sequence, Aliens and T2.
Aliens soured my tummy because it turned a masterful blend of Science Fiction and Horror and turned it into a rather simple summer action flick.
The original Terminator was based on a pretty hoaky premise of time-traveling robot assassins, but this really didn't bring the movie down as an experience because the premise was mere exposition that took only a few minutes of screen time to explain. The rest of the movie was right there in your face in the immediate present with some mean mother fucker chasing your ass. This part of the flick was scripted to action movie perfection and you could ignore the weak premise.
T2 had that stupid premise integrated throughout the movie and suffered as a believable narrative because of it.
And the parts that didn't require a heavy dose of integrating this flawed concept were not so well done. Acting was off key, kid's display of humanity was not so believable for the roll he played, for one instance of poor characterization, and the editing of the scene transitions was also too heavy handed. Things really didn't flow well between scenes though there was really good unity within the individual scenes because of the advanced use of CGI. Transition points became moments to show off the specular highlights.
CGI pretty damn spectacular in this one, but the movie as a movie sucked.
Insert Condemnation Of Heresy Here
#2219 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2008/01/21 19:40:56
T2, come on, best of the series by far.
Go map.
AVP was bad bad (not good bad like Freddy v Jason). They could have done a simple straightforward genre flick like that but they fucked it up. They needed a better excuse for them to fight, if they WANTED some big ancient aliens conspiracy then they should have made it not retarded. Von Daniken fucks everything up once again. And the Predators were portrayed as idiots: they make this big game, but it's easy for them to not have their planned weapons, and I expected a love scene with the predator and that one chick at the end. The predators are an evil heartless race that believes in survival of the fittest within certain rules, they would never "work with humans" against the "greater evil" but would rather grind humans into ketchup.
Alien 5
#2220 posted by Zwiffle [67.53.148.10] on 2008/01/21 19:48:12
http://ksjtracker.mit.edu/wp-conte...
Terror has never been more furry.
Avp
#2221 posted by nitin [210.84.27.78] on 2008/01/21 22:45:35
blowed. Avp requiem blows more.
And to those who saw it to see aliens and predators fight, did you actually see anything? I mean its shot with 50 edits per second in near darkness, how do you know what's killing what?
And headthump, valid points, Aliens was a summer action flick but a pretty damn good one. Yes it completely changes tone from Alien (the best one) but it's probably one of the best action films going around.
And T1 suffered from the premise just as much as T2 in my opinion. T2 is a better action film, I can see your point re T1 but I dont see how it affects T2.
And for what its worth, I liked T3 too (though it is by far the weakest).
T3...
#2222 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/01/22 00:47:40
T3 was surprisingly solid. Like you say, it was the weakest in the series, but it was a respectable continuation of the story.
The Thing That About T1 And Alien Is When They Were Made...
#2223 posted by mwh [116.48.177.57] on 2008/01/22 10:45:58
I mean, 79 and 84! And there still haven't been many (any?) films of the style that were better...
Agreed
#2224 posted by JPL [213.30.139.243] on 2008/01/22 11:16:15
Worst Alien movie ever is easy to find: Star Ship Troopers... :P
Starship Troopers Is Good Too
#2225 posted by nitin [210.84.27.78] on 2008/01/22 12:23:50
I seriously think most people miss the fact that it's a war movie pisstake, I find it pretty funny :)
Yeah - I Agree Nitin...
#2226 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.217.8] on 2008/01/22 13:22:05
Starship Troopers 2 on the other hand was a real abomination!!
Species - I remember that being pretty shite...
Ever Played The Starship Troopers Drinking Game?
#2227 posted by starbuck [82.41.206.175] on 2008/01/22 14:04:14
You drink every time there's a cliche. It's usually fatal. It's meant to be of course though, very tongue in cheek, and if you watch it like that it's good entertainment.
I liked both T1 and T2, but preferred T2 for sure. T1 had one thing T2 never had though, and that's a nightclub called TECH NOIR. If I found a place called that that looked like it did, i'd go there every night of my life.
AvPR...
#2228 posted by distrans [149.144.189.66] on 2008/01/24 06:50:34
...best sequence of events.
Loner likes purdy girl, girl dumps dick to start a thing with loner, both get unceremoniously FUBAR as mere collateral damage. Love the matter of fact way she dies, hehee!
Rambo
#2229 posted by Scampie [24.240.45.18] on 2008/01/26 06:42:59
New Rambo film is pretty fucking cool. It knows exactly what it is, an all out action/war film, and doesn't try to add in any other hollywood bullshit, or tone down it's violent and brutal violence. It portrays it's theme very simply, war is a hellish and horrible thing, and does a great job at it. Sly is still rocking and is perfect as the reluctant warrior who doesn't want to fight anymore, but ends up fighting anyway.
Great film, highly recommended to anyone who wants some pure bloody action.
Reminds Me...
#2230 posted by metlslime [67.164.90.144] on 2008/01/26 07:59:23
Remakes of old movies from decades ago are nothing new, but it seems like a strange new development that remakes/sequels are starting to come out that cast the original star. Such as the latest Rocky movie, the latest Indy movie, and the latest Die Hard, and the latest Rambo.
#2231 posted by gb [89.27.231.189] on 2008/01/27 01:05:55
Golden Compass
I thought it wasn't bad, I liked the casting but it was clear that most visitors hadn't read the book and thus had no idea what was happening. They had to cut it so rigidly to fit it into cinema format that most of the charme was totally lost.
For what it is, it's a good attempt, but unlike LOTR most ppl don't know the books and so this movie can't get away with it like Peter Jackson could.
I found it a little cheap that many visitors thought they had to disfavorably compare it to LOTR, I think that's what many people always say when they don't get a fantasy movie. *shrug*
Worth watching IMO but only when you have read the book, otherwise it'll leave you scratching your head.
Resident Evil, part 3 (forgot the title)
This was rather nice. There are those who like Milla Jovovic and those who despise her... I happen to like her... this movie was just very good, nonstop brutal action cut like a music video, good fighting but sometimes sickening because of the extremely detailed, gory, thoroughly choreographed violence.
Jovovic is surprisingly fit, endlessly more believable as a super heroine than Jolie in those stupid Lara Croft movies (I'll get to that in a second) and the roster of outlaws are believable enough for their position in the movie. There's just enough plot to not disturb the action, most of it is rather cliched, granted but I didn't find it intrusive.
The various types of zombies and mutants were entertaining, even more so since the movie didn't take itself too seriously here, which I liked.
The cinema was almost empty when I watched this one, which can be either a good or a bad sign, in this case it was a good one. For a video game based movie, it was astonishingly good. Good popcorn movie except for the sheer amount of brutality, which you must be prepared to tolerate (or your stomach at least). Part 3 in a series, I'll definitely go see the next one.
TombRaider, the Cradle of Life (?) Part 2
Just saw this on TV. It was so bad that I could barely stand to watch it. One of the worst things I ever saw.
As an action flick, it's a complete failure. Jolie never has the required toughness or even fitness that you'd expect from a video game heroine. She seems like totally unmotivated, tired, in bad shape and in need of a good martial arts coach. Her "friends", unlike the butler, hacker guy and fellow tombraider from the first movie, were total caricatures and weaklings. The bad guys were unconvincing. The plot was total stupidity (oooooh, let's have Lara Croft open Pandora's box in Africa and cry.)
It seemed to be more of a movie about Angelina Jolie, sweet little black kids, wise black shamans, how terrible it is in Africa, and bad white men with helicopters. ^^ Lara Croft had gone missing it seems. Alanis Morrisette could have played Lara and the movie would have been better.
The first TR movie was entertaining in comparison, and contained elements from the game, and Jolie was a bit more interested in things, and much fitter. :-/ too bad.
ResidentEvil : TombRaider 1:0.
Snip + Part 2
#2232 posted by gb [89.27.231.189] on 2008/01/27 01:08:49
I watched a lot of Scandinavian movies lately, and while the Dogma 95 "standard" forbids simplistic action and the use of cheap effects, it seems to noneless be a silent agreement at least in Danish films that at one point, one of the increasingly fucked up main characters draws a weapon and kills some cows, birds and sometimes even people or rock bands in a rather comical fashion. :-)
Some I recommend:
I Kina spiser de hunde (In China, they eat dogs)
Arvid who works at a bank defeats a robber with a squash racket, loses his girlfriend, and teams up with his brother, a small criminal, to collect money for the bank robber's wife so she can have a baby and they finally do something good. Nothing is as it seems of course. Funny movie about what you can and cannot do, brothers, careless (often accidental) shooting of people, and just enough knowledge about explosives to be dangerous. Like a Tarantino movie but fresher and better actors. Oh, and simplistic action scenes and effects :-)
Blinkende Lygter (Blinking lights)
Danish road-movie about four small gangsters approaching 40, and just so opening a restaurant with other gangsters' money. Careless shooting of cars and cows. Good movie about men, friendship, family, life and other crap.
Adams Aebler (Adam's Apples)
Neo-nazi Adam is sent to "resocialisation" at a church somewhere in the Danish outback, together with two small criminals and a diehard Christian preacher. Clash of personalities, careless shooting of birds and neo-nazis, being constantly tested by the devil (or not?) and baking of apple pie.
Mifune
Dogma movie. (= be careful here)
Movie that starts out slowly but gets better and better. No careless shooting, lots of sex. Brothers, career, no more career, prostitution, love, living in the city, leaving the city, UFOs, family, what you are and what you're trying to be, sex, love, kids, Danish outback. Not simple but I believe rather good. Must watch this again.
Must watch part 1 and 2 of Resident Evil, too.
#2233 posted by nitin [124.168.31.44] on 2008/01/29 09:20:50
3:10 to Yuma - For a movie that has both Bale and Crowe, it doesn’t quite set off the acting fireworks as it should. That's not to say the performances arent good, it's pretty solidly acted by everyone in general, but only Crowe comes out with anything memorable.
The rest of the movie is also quite well made and fairly entertaining but the script has a few problems with justifying character motivations. Not quite as good as I was hoping, but well worth watching.
7-7.5/10
Ashes and Diamonds (1958) - Andrzej Wajda's famous polish film set in a small polish town on the last day of WWII when the country was in a state of political limbo showcases a director with a lot of talent but is let down by some very forced and contrived scripting.
Its stunningly shot, has more ideas than you can poke a stick at and the characters are interesting. The plot, however, is a bit too convenient and never makes any of the situations or character actions really convincing.
6.5/10
The Lodger (1944) - quite a well done take on the Jack the Ripper story by John Brahm. Very atmospheric and with a pretty good central performance by Laird Cregar.
Never goes for anything cheap, just has a well done, slowly building and unsettling sense of uneasiness throughout.
7/10
Superbad - Only saw this because I liked Knocked Up, but this was just as unfunny for me as 40 yr old virgin. Seth Rogen apparently wrote this when he was 15, and well I don’t doubt that at all :)
Not my sort of humour I guess.
4/10
Le Doulos (1961) - Another fine movie from Jean Pierre Melville and his first collaboration with Jean Paul Belmondo.
Belmondo is, as always, a very strong screen presence and Melville uses it to great effect in this norish crime thriller which starts off as something simple and ends up being a very intricate and involving narrative.
7-7.5/10
The Good Shepherd - A lot of people I know really didn’t like this movie and I guess I can see why. It's slow, has a very dense narrative and unsympathetic characters and is also likely to confuse and alienate anyone that's not familiar with a particular point in US history.
If you do know a bit about the events though and don’t mind having to do a bit of work, it's quite an excellent movie. Sure, the main character is very distant, but I don’t see how that's a negative given that it was a character trait. There's a subtlety to how Matt Damon plays him as well, so it could be mistaken for bad acting, but I thought it was quite effective.
As for the length and pacing, I never found it an issue because the narrative is very fascinating.
7.5/10
Black Narcissus (1947) - quite a bizarre film from Powell and Pressburger (scorsese really loves it though, he does the intro on the dvd). Anyway, it's pretty ambitious, taking on everything from british colonialism to christianity to repressed sexualiity and all from a simple story about an order of nuns trying to set up a new convent high up in the himalyas, where all emotions tend to get exaggerated and heightened (for no particular reason).
I don’t think it quite works, mainly because some of the characterisations arent all that well realised and so changes in character are also a bit problematic.
What does work is the stunning camerawork from Jack Cardiff. This has to be one of the towering achievements in cinematography, going well beyond a meshing of perfect composition and tremendous lighting and into an integral part of the storytelling by managing to communicate characters' states of mind far better than the acting and scripting.
7/10
#2234 posted by nitin [124.168.82.173] on 2008/02/04 10:25:44
Some short ones:
Lost Season 3 - this is probably the first season that actually convinced me that the creators know reasonably where this is going. Unfortunately, it also convinced me that they are going to continue to drag it out for as long as possible.
Anyway, I found it better than the second season, less dud episodes and there's pretty solid secondary story arcs going on this time around too.
7/10
Damages Season 1 - fairly generic, predictable and unoriginal legal show, but its reasonably well made and performed with a few interesting characters. The writing and shooting style could definitely do with improvement.
6.5-7/10
Senso (1951) - like The Leopard, another opulent period melodrama set in a crucial time of Italy's history by Luchino Visconti, but this time it's not as good (or as ambitious).
It looks great but Alida Valli and Farley Granger just cannot carry their roles and fail to involve the viewers with their charcaters' plight. Visconti apparently wanted to have Brando and Ingrid Bergman, and they would have deifnitely been better choices for the two roles.
5.5/10
1408 - a poor attempt at an old fashioned horror/thriller which tries to build up suspense and dread without resorting to cheap thrills, but is hampered by its own self-awareness of other better movies in the genre and also by a very stupid script.
5/10
In the Heat of the Night (1967) - relies a bit too much on its race card for effect, but nevertheless its still well made and performed (especially Rod Steiger) and featuring some nicely penned character interactions.
7/10
Dracula (1992) - I hope this was at least meant to be partially campy because its otherwise a huge misfire from Francis Ford Coppola. Way over the top and bordering on parody far too often, its an absolute chaotic mess, especially narratively.
Even the attempt at expressionistic visuals doesnt generally work with too many scenes having too many tricks that draw attention to themselves and detract from the overall effect.
4/10
Dracula (1992)
#2235 posted by Shambler [77.100.140.250] on 2008/02/04 11:15:15
Enjoyed it very much, I think I saw it twice actually. Good all-round entertainment and well pulled off, I thought.
Shambler
#2236 posted by nitin [124.168.82.173] on 2008/02/06 09:39:48
anything in particular oyu liked about it? I just couldnt get into it.
Ratatouille - pixar just keep hitting the target, I didnt quite like this as much as some of their best (Toy Storys and Incredibles), but it's as good as their next tier (monsters inc, cars). A bit too long, but otherwise great animation, great characters and quite funny.
7.5/10
Bringing Out the Dead (1999) - nic cage in good movie shocker!! Not one of scorsese's well known films, which is a pity because it's very entetaining despite not really going anywhere and dragging a bit towards the end.
The humour is dark, the writing is sharp, the look is excellent and cage is very engaging as a paramedic who starts spiralling into depression when all his patients keep dying on him.
7-7.5/10
#2237 posted by nitin [203.217.86.235] on 2008/02/08 11:36:01
The Queen - very good film but with a little more tinkering it could have been great. The writing and acting is generally of a pretty high standard but apart from the two main characters (ie the queen and tony blair), the rest of them are way underdeveloped and one note. Given the short running time, it woudlnt have hurt to spend some more time developing them rather than making them mere caricatures. There's also some very unnecessary dialogue that spells out each little thing to the audience. But having said all of that, its quite an engaging and interesting film and well worth checking out.
7.5/10
My Darling Clementine (1946) - It's technically a western by being a take on the wyatt earp story, but it only uses that as a basis for a pretty good character study (unlike Tombstone which was all about the events). Its beautifully shot, Henry Fond is great as usual and there is not too much of the standard Ford oversentimentality and unnecessary slapstick.
7/10
La Vie En Rose - falls into the usual biopic traps (mainly trying to cover all important events without spending enough time on any for them to really make an impact), the filmmaking is sloppy and nervous and the storytelling is chaotic and messy. But it has two things that stop it from being a disaster, Marion Cotillard's excellent performance as Edith Piaf and also the songs of Piaf herself (had never heard it before, but it’s definitely a very distinct and impressive voice).
5/10
#2238 posted by nitin [203.217.86.235] on 2008/02/11 10:50:09
The Spiral Staircase (1946) - very solid gothic suspense/thriller that’s immaculately shot and well written for the most part. The last act is a little weaker than it should be, mainly due to plot limitations, but its still very well handled because the emphasis is always on character (which apparently is not the case in the 1975 and 2000 remakes).
7-7.5/10
Fires on the Plain (1959) - slightly surreal and very bleak look at the japanese side of things during WWII, concentrating on the mental disintegration and survival of japanese troops in the phillipines when they had been abandoned by their own forces who had retreated to the mainland.
There's a very noticeable distance from the characters, mainly because it tries to be very even handed, but otherwise it's quite effective in what it sets out to do, pulling out quite a few genuine surprises along the way.
7/10
A Woman Under The Influence (1974) - john cassavetes' most famous film is a very uncomfortable look at mental illness in domestic, blue collar america. Both Gena Rowlands and Peter Falk are nothing short of fantastic in their depictions of two people in love but unable to comunicate it to each other in ways the other understands, leading to an eventual spiral into family hell.
The performances really are staggering and make some of the otherwise hard to watch scenes easier to appreciate. I did find that it went on a bit too long (146 min) but that's probably just because it’s a very exhausting film.
7/10
3 Days of the Condor (1974) - otherwise known as that movie directly spoofed by seinfeld in the episode where newman warns kramer (who wants to stop receiveing mail) of being abducted by someone he trusts, it's also the movie that has obviously inspired stuff like the Bourne series of novels/films.
Its very classily handled in the suspense and writing side of things (save for a very dodgy relationship establishment between robert redford and faye dunaway's characters) but its also heavily dated from the technology side of things. Normally, that's not an issue for me, but quite a few of the scenes look like something out of a Bond spoof.
6-6.5/10
Cria Cuervos (1976) - similar in some ways to the great Spirit of the Beehive, and not just because it has another remarkable performance from Ana Torrent as an 8 year old dealing with the loss of her father and mother. Reality and fantasy intermittently swap places, never in an overly explicit manner, and always in a surprising way due to clever editing and writing.
Carlos Saura does a tremendous job getting into the head of his main character, a particularly difficult thing to do with children in my opinion. Excellent all round stuff.
8/10
#2239 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/02/11 22:26:45
Fires on the Plain (1959)
I am tired of these mutherfuckin fires on this mutherfuckin plain...
On a more productive note, I was thinking it's fun to make top 10 lists of overly-specific movie genres. I was wondering what the top 10 assassination movies were, but I don't know if I've even seen 10 decent assassination movies total.
1. Manchurian Candidate
2. Taxi Driver
3. The Parallax View (does this count?)
4. Day of the Jackal
5. In The Line of Fire
...
Assassination Movies
#2240 posted by Gom Jabbar [87.139.120.209] on 2008/02/12 11:05:00
Your number 1 is wrong, metl. It's supposed to be Léon the Professional without any doubt.
^ ^
#2241 posted by DaZ [84.208.229.31] on 2008/02/12 11:45:25
Agree
Gom:
#2242 posted by metlslime [67.164.90.144] on 2008/02/12 11:49:42
i was thinking more about assasinations of politicians and leaders, rather than just anything with a hitman or sniper in it.
Dobermann (1997)...
#2243 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2008/02/12 12:44:25
...is a fucking violent movie with Vincent Cassel, Monica Belucci and Tchéki Karyo.. This is the story of the charismatic criminal Dobermann, who got his first gun when he was christened, and his lead of a gang of brutal robbers. If you like violence in movie, you will be happy with it: it is dark, bloddy and violent as Hell..
Metl
#2244 posted by nitin [203.217.86.235] on 2008/02/12 12:49:45
you lost me there :) did I miss something or you just wanted to quote samuel L ?
As for the list, I'd swap 1 and 2 personally. I'd throw in JFK in the top 5 because I think it works great as a film.
Cant think of any more staright of the top of my head though.
Jpl
#2245 posted by nitin [203.217.86.235] on 2008/02/12 12:51:03
I've been trying to find a copy of that for a while actually. Mainly because I like Cassel (when he actually gets a good role) and Bellucci (anytime really).
Metl
#2246 posted by bambuz [91.152.85.201] on 2008/02/12 13:57:18
Not just snipers or hitmen. So how about The Assassination of Richard Nixon?
Good One
#2247 posted by nitin [203.217.86.235] on 2008/02/12 22:42:54
but I would only put it in a top 10 if i was struggling, which is probably the case :)
Nitin:
#2248 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/02/13 00:15:22
yeah, just had that "snakes on a plane" quote pop into my head when reading your reviews :)
JFK probably fits on there, though it takes place completely after the event.
There are probably some historical movies about the knifing of various Roman emperors that could fit on here, but I can't remember the good ones (Caligula is not a good one.)
Metl
#2249 posted by nitin [124.168.80.55] on 2008/02/13 11:04:19
does stuff like Godfather, The Conversation or Munich count? or is that stretching too much?
Hmm
#2250 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.187] on 2008/02/14 00:00:39
Though it didn't involve heads of states as the recepients, Munich should definitely make the list. The nude woman assassination was pretty brutal.
Not the Godfather, though. When a low life gangster gets murdered it is more properly called a hit.
As for The Conversation, I'll need my memory jumped started on that one, if I'm thinking of the right movie, the director who mostly does films on Baltimore, right?
Headthump
#2251 posted by nitin [124.168.80.55] on 2008/02/14 09:39:21
yeah fair enough, I cant think of 10 I would list so was going for everything :)
Conversation is a coppola classic with gene hackman back when he actually acted. :
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt007136...
Lol
#2252 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.121] on 2008/02/14 18:32:44
Oddly enough, I was thinking of Barry Levinson's The Diner.
#2253 posted by nitin [124.168.80.55] on 2008/02/16 00:38:25
Mona Lisa (1986) - nothing to do with the painting, but (out of what I've seen) easily Neil Jordan's best movie, although the title probably refers to the mysterious, impenetrable and alluring nature of the main female character.
Bob Hoskins is excellent in the central role of a driver of an upper class prostitute in middle class London who gets drawn into events and dealings well above his head. Jordan quite quickly establishes some very likeable characters and an impending sense of gloom in the first 15 min and from then on, it unfolds quite beautifully through some excellent writing that is also quite frequently hilarious.
The supporting cast is great with Michael Caine in an impressive cameo and Robbie Coltrane a scene stealer as Bob Hoskins' friend who is an ornamental spaghetti artist that also moonlights as murder mystery writer.
7-7.5/10
There Will Be Blood - It's Paul Thomas Anderson's most assured film, everything is restrained rather than overly showy, but its probably also his least impressive overall.
For close to 2 1/2 hours, it’s a searing portrait of greed, manipulation and single mindedness building to what looks like Citizen Kane territory. But the last act is completely in the wrong tone and was also far too rushed compared to the rest of the film.
Daniel Day Lewis's John Huston impersonation is quite entertaining and pretty good, but its also surprisingly very one note.
Had greatness in its hands, but let it slip.
7.5/10
Ace in the Hole (1951) - Billy Wilder's black humoured movie about media glorification is a fairly biting, well written satire in which Kirk Douglas's Chuck Tatum paraphrases Gordon Gecko's "greed is good" motto some 36 years earlier.
The movie centres around Tatum's news reporter who goes to some length to make a media circus out of a small town miner who is trapped in a mine on an old indian burial ground, even making sure he stays down there long enough to get more mileage out of the story.
The dialogue is sharp as usual from Wilder, including yet another great finishing line, and the whole thing keeps up the farcical nature of the situation quite well without managing to stretch credulity.
7.5/10
I Have Yet To See The Film
#2254 posted by Tronyn [24.79.154.192] on 2008/02/16 14:10:27
but being a fan of DDL I wanted to see it. In any case, it's kind of hard to say what situation could emerge which would end up being reasonable.
Anyway, the obvious fact is that situations are underestimated, even if they provide temporary happiness.
Tronyn
#2255 posted by nitin [124.168.80.55] on 2008/02/16 15:23:11
it's well worth watching.
Death Proof - My Â£0.10 (tenpenneth)
#2256 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.238.33] on 2008/02/16 17:12:35
I thought the total opposite of what Nitin said.
I liked the second half, but after watching the first half, I nearly turned it off in disgust. Good job I didnt though. I remember saying to my girlfriend "I think these girls will survive, cause, I dunno, they just seem a little bit more worldly than the last ones". I couldnt have been more right. I liked the way the film ended. Very quickly, almost as if to say "well? do you REALLY need any more? is it not PERFECT?"
The first half was nasty for me. I mean it was almost as if to make you think "why am I even bothering to watch this?" when they were in the bar. And then when the first killing occur, It was just a bit disgusting, and gratuatus. But I suppose thats Tarantinos style.
I give a similar mark to Nitin, maybe a bit higher, like a 6, but I liked the bits he didnt, and didnt like the bits he did.
Deathproof
#2257 posted by megaman [84.63.65.244] on 2008/02/16 20:06:24
I see this more as Tarantino exploring different style, much like a more traditional artist. That's why I'd rate it on a totally different basis than most other movies.
That said, i did expect a more interesting and consequent handling of it; but maybe i'm missing some cheesy 70ies/80ies movies background.
Tekkonkinkreet
#2258 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.87] on 2008/02/16 23:03:17
Tekkonkinkreet
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt083188...
The backgrounds are amazing but apart from that I hated pretty much everything: The story, the characters, the people's looks, the voices.
I found it very depressing and crazy.
Megaman
#2259 posted by nitin [124.168.80.55] on 2008/02/17 00:30:13
different style?
a bunch of (admittedly female) characters sit around for quite a while, all speaking like tarantino, interspersed with gory violence :)
ricky, a couple of my freinds had the same reaction as you actually.
#2260 posted by nitin [210.84.14.88] on 2008/02/17 04:26:47
Gone Baby Gone - Ben Affleck makes a stunning debut as director with this excellent film that is dripping with character and mood.
He also does his brother Casey a big favour, giving him the meatiest role in the movie, and the younger Affleck does it full justice playing one half of a private detective team hired by the grandparents of a missing girl to 'augment' the police investigation into her disappearance.
From there on what follows is not only a superior police procedural but also an unflinching look at the nature of choices and their sometimes irreparable consequences, all presented in a very assured, restrained and subtle manner that is very rare to see these days.
It has a few flaws, the nature of the plot causes a few pacing issues near the middle of the movie and one of the seemingly main characters is only there to serve the plot but overall from out of what I've seen so far, this is the second best flm of last year behind No Country for Old Men.
7.5-8/10
La Silence de la Mer (1949) - a world apart from Melville's later films, this is almost a precursor to the films of Robert Bresson and those of the impending French New Wave.
Set during 1941 in occupied France, an old man and his niece are forced to provide billeted accomodation to german soldiers and resist in the only way they can, by refusing to say a single word during their stay. However. one such soldier continues to speak to them, admiring and understanding their silence, and the majority of the film looks at the relationship between the thre characters till the end of the officer's stay.
There are obvious limitations imposed on the film due to the plot, and its not helped by some of the acting, but the situation and teh characterisations are compelling.
6.5/10
We Own the Night - extremely predictable and generic crime drama that is well made but just cant overcome its unoriginal nature.
Joaquin Phoenix is very good at playing tortured and almost manages to raise this out of the average barrel, along with a fabulous rainstorm car chase, but the whole thing never really kicks outof second gear at any stage.
5.5-6/10
Spirit
#2261 posted by Bal [82.124.154.98] on 2008/02/17 11:00:04
I hate you, Tekkon Kinkreet rocks!
Nitin
#2262 posted by megaman [84.63.80.53] on 2008/02/17 22:31:46
well, not the story ;)
#2263 posted by nitin [124.168.125.233] on 2008/02/20 10:50:27
Margot at the Wedding - Noah Baumbach's followup to The Squid and the Whale is not as frequently hilarious but is possibly even more brutal and bitter in its drama. Nicole Kidman has her best role in years (since Birth) and does a pretty good job as a neurotic writer who attends her sister's wedding, despite not having spoken to her for a a lengthy period of time.
Some of it is definitely laugh out loud funny, especially at the expense of Jack Black who plays the sister's fiance, and quite a lot of it is dramatically potent, but overall there are too many selfish and unsympathetic characters for it to be involving.
6.5/10
#2264 posted by nitin [124.168.125.233] on 2008/02/25 09:48:32
Carnal Knowledge (1971) - Mike Nichols' recent Closer was really a more modern update of his earlier effort starring jack nicholson, art garfunkel, candice bergen and rita moreno.
It's understandably less frank in its language and exploration of sex but the dialogue is no less clever, biting or sharp and the performances are pretty engaging (even though nicholson occasionally goes too over the top).
The problem is that even though its only 97 min long, it starts to repeat itself by about the halfway mark. The characters never develop, because they refuse to change, and their lives gets stuck in a predictable cycle because of it.
Overall, though its still quite entertaining despite not really going anywhere.
6.5-7/10
The Libertine (2005) - entertaining period piece that is a fictionalised look at the life of John Wilmot, the 2nd earl of rochester and a libertine poet of satirical and bawdy poetry.
The narrative is fairly mundane and I'm sure its woefully inaccurate historically (I've never considered that a quality anyway), but when the performances are this good and entertaining, it really doesn’t matter.
Samantha Morton and John Malkovich provide good support but it's once again the Johnny Depp show as he goes about making a thoroughly unlikeable character likeable. It’s a performance that relishes the excesses of the character but also knows that it doesn’t have to delve into that same level of excess histrionically. The look and script are also well above average.
6.5/10
Odd Man Out (1947) - third film I've seen from Carol Reed and it makes it 3 great films out of 3. Its probably the best script I've seen in terms of characterisation, every character is very well drawn out and multidimensional no matter how small their role is. Add to that some top notch performances, a terrific mood and look and reasonably tight direction and you have a winner.
The only issue I had was that it goes a bit off tangent and deviates a bit in the middle but given that that section is still fairly entertaining, it's a minor quibble.
8/10
Blood and Sand (1941) - extremely corny but pretty well made version of a popular spanish story. The performances by tyrone power, linda darnell and rita hayworth are reasonably adequate and the techincolor cinematography is spectacular, but the main reason for it being worth watching is some nice scripting (despite the corny plotting).
6/10
I Confess (1953) - fairly straight drama from Hitchcock with an interesting if implausible premise of a priest hearing the confession of a crime and then struggling with the oath to keep it a secret when he becomes a suspect by circumstance.
Good performances by Anne Baxter and Montgomery Clift and it is quite well made till the compromised ending which hints at some interesting developments and then never follows through on them.
6.5/10
Extras Finale - disappointing end to the series. Too much (forced) sentimentality and not enough laughs. There's the odd moment of hilarity (the clive owen cameo being the best) but plods far too frequently during its 80 odd min running time.
5.5/10
Simpsons Movie - wasn’t expecting much given how terrible the simpsons has been for years but even with those low expectations, I thought it was pretty bad. Like most of the episodes in recent years, there's no real wit, imagination or focus for most of the running time.
4/10
...
#2265 posted by starbuck [82.41.206.175] on 2008/02/25 18:27:15
I am Legend
There's a lot and a lot bad about this. It's loosely based on Richard Matheson's 1954 novel of the same name, which also inspired 'The Omega Man' and 'The last man on earth'. The idea of the movie is that scientists attempt to cure cancer by retro-engineering the measles virus, and programming it to kill cancer. As you can expect, it doesn't work out well, and the virus rapidly infects the human population, killing 90%, leaving alone the 1% who are immune, and causing the other 9% to revert to a violent primal state.
The primal infected people end up feeding on the 1% of survivors, and when the film starts, Robert Neville (Will Smith) is seemingly the only man left, attempting to survive in L.A..
Will Smith's character is one of the strongest parts of the film. There's a reason he survived, and it's because he has meticulously prepared for every eventuality: he has systems and traps set up all over the city. In the day he goes to get fuel for his generators, retrieves canned foods from deserted apartments and presumably builds up his ridiculous arsenal of weapons.
The film also makes a good decision in not defining the infected as 'vampires' at any point, as they were described in the book, although they share characteristics, such as that UV radiation damages those infected with the virus, so they only come out at night, they've lost their hair for some reason, their skin is white, etc, etc.
That's about all they got right about the 'infected' though. The CGI used for them is truely horrible and it really takes away from the immersion of the film. The overall design of them is cliched and boring too: the virus for some reason turns almost everyone into an angry snarling 6ft tall bald guy.
Also, I think they made a big mistake in making the infected as fast, indestructible and powerful as they did. There's simply no way any virus could make everyone 10 times stronger than anyone in the world has ever been, able to climb a building in a couple of leaps and able to headbutt through walls and bulletproof glass hundreds of times, or get shot in the head without getting hurt. I know it's hollywood, but as a whole the film is pretty believable and the 'bad guys' completely ruin that.
The film builds really well in the first two-thirds i think, but in the final act it kind of falls to pieces as it tries to introduce the notion of a utopian survivors colony to the north, among other things. The film is at it's best when it's just Robert Neville and his dog against the world, gathering supplies, fighting to survive and trying to find a cure for the virus, but when most of that changes, it loses a lot of momentum. The ending seems a bit tacked-on too, and I've read about an alternate ending on the DVD which sounds much better.
All in all, I don't want to put anyone off seeing this too much. It looks amazing in parts and I really enjoyed much of the film early on. Probably about a 6.5-7/10
Starbuck
#2266 posted by bambuz [91.152.85.201] on 2008/02/25 19:31:20
it's nice to write a review.
I just don't like spoilers.
Imho reviews should not be about telling the movie's plot (or even half of it) but about what the movie is *like*. General style, is it good, what is good and what is bad.
I mean, the plot is what we find out if we go and watch it. It unfolds. It tickles your feelings. If we know it, it doesn't work the same way.
Reviewing is hard.
Of course, with the trailers and styles and all nowadays, everything is known about a movie from start to finish anyway before you even go see it. Hence (well, one of the multitude of reasons) why I don't go to movies anymore.
Have to use one ticket I have in a few months though.
Ok, enough complaining.
Bambuz
#2267 posted by starbuck [82.41.206.175] on 2008/02/25 23:36:15
apologies if I gave away too much there, though I think if you watch the film you'll find that most of the stuff I mentioned happens almost immediately.
I Am Legend
#2268 posted by inertia [127.255.255.255] on 2008/02/26 04:29:16
Agree totally with previous review;
I hear that if you live in Manhattan, the scenes of destroyed NYC are amazing to behold.
Also, for those who've seen it -- since when can a Mustang corner like that??
I Am Legend
#2269 posted by DaZ [84.208.229.31] on 2008/02/26 15:09:34
Saw it a few days ago, it was good but I couldn't help drawing comparisons to 28 days later (this was before I found out that I am legend was based on a book) and frankly 28 days later was much better than this.
The CGI totally destroyed the infected people, it was very badly done and I really wish they had used live actors for the infected.
And yeah, the first half of the film was actually very good, Neville vs the world, with his dog! Then it started falling apart sadly.
Daz
#2270 posted by starbuck [82.41.206.175] on 2008/02/26 16:58:21
apparently they were planning on using actors for the infected, but in the first weeks of filming the director decided he wasn't getting enough hyper-ventilating rabidness out of the real people, so they decided to just add them in post production. Not that you'd ever tell they did it at the last minute, oh no.
#2271 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/02/26 21:37:13
but in the first weeks of filming the director decided he wasn't getting enough hyper-ventilating rabidness out of the real people, so they decided to just add them in post production.
I guess it's a problem when the vision in the director's head is actually a cartoon.
.rec
#2272 posted by negke [82.82.167.1] on 2008/02/26 23:59:58
Blairwitch Project meets any recent Zombie movie meets Trinca. Somewhat of a mixed bag. The beginning was quite good - a seemingly regular documentary about the work of a fire fighting squad being shot by a TV crew, who follow them on an emergency call, when suddenly all hell breaks loose and nobody (including the viewer) knows what's going on. The second half of the movie is a bit of a let-down with too much generic screaming, shaky and blurry camera and so on. Fits the theme well, but dunno, maybe Blairwitch used up its novelty.
Still an OK movie, I guess, though I have no idea why Hollywood thought a US remake was necessary ("Quarantine")...
#2273 posted by nitin [124.168.111.104] on 2008/03/03 09:47:50
Black Book (2006) - Paul Verheoven goes back to Holland and his european sensibilities and makes a war blockbuster american style.
Its been criticised a little for trivialising serious issues into a hollywoodesque action-thriller but Verheoven's never been a subtle or serious director and this is a stylish, thrilling and excellently paced film with a compelling central performance by Carice Van Houten (who is also extremely good looking) as a jewish woman trying to survive in occupied Holland toward the end of WWII.
The only issue I had was that some of the plotting in the second half is a little too contrived and occasionally Verheoven just cant resist himself and dips into the gratuity pool for no real reason.
7-7.5/10
No Regrets For Our Youth (1946) - Akira Kurosawa does Ozu in this effective mini-epic about Yukie (Setsuko Hara) who in traversing a tumultuous decade in Japanese history transforms herself from bourgeois daughter to independent social activist.
This is completely different in style and tone to Kurosawa's more celebrated work, but is up there in quality with a number of those more well known films. Well written and superbly acted, the movie surprises quite often in its plotting and direction and never goes down the easy route of cheap sentimentality.
7-7.5/10
Cul de Sac (1966) - well I don’t know how to describe this rather peculiar offering from Roman Polasnki. There's plenty of black humour but you couldn’t call it a comedy and there's plenty of suspense and eerie atmosphere but you couldn’t call it a thriller either.
Either way, it's quite an enjoyable if odd movie with an entertaining performance by Donald Pleasance as a painter on the verge of a nervous breakdown when the castle he is living in with his young wife is invaded by some dopey small time crooks. Lightweight Polanski, but still well worth watching.
6.5/10
Shoot Em Up - starts off well enough as a cartoonesque action parody, with tongue firmly in cheek, but the longer it goes on the more it runs out of steam. Clive Owen and Paul Giamatti relish their roles and chew up the scenery well enough, but by the end it's a pretty forgettable effort that's not in the same league as something more clever like Hot Fuzz.
5.5/10
Hot Fuzz
#2274 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.233.151] on 2008/03/03 12:10:04
Fell asleep both times I tried to watch this very boring unfunny film.
Hot Fuzz
#2275 posted by DaZ [84.208.229.31] on 2008/03/03 13:28:11
I found the 1st half quite dull, then the second half is laugh out loud fantastic!
Its kind of the opposite from Shaun of the dead, of which the 1st half rocked, and then got dull in the 2nd half...
Well I Dont Know What Happens In Hot Fuzz...
#2276 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.233.151] on 2008/03/03 13:30:32
...at the end, I kept falling asleep at the start. Waste of a good rental. I tried to watch it twice!!
Black Book
#2277 posted by starbuck [127.255.255.255] on 2008/03/03 17:32:45
I really want to see that... I remember reading reviews and thinking the same thing: why were the reviewers expecting Schindler's List when the movie is directed by Paul Verhoeven? Let's look at his past record, Total Recall? Starship Troopers? Robocop?! Not exactly hallmarks of subtlety, but great films, especially Total Recall, which is one of my favourite action films. So yeah, I need to see Black Book.
I Found Hot Fuzz Funny
#2278 posted by nitin [124.168.111.104] on 2008/03/03 22:04:01
all the way through, unlike Shaun of the Dead which only worked for me in bits.
starbuck,
exactly. It has its faults mind you but its pretty damn enjoyable.
#2279 posted by nitin [124.168.111.104] on 2008/03/04 13:11:43
The Ladykillers (1956) - the remake was a low point for the Coens (despite tom hanks in a good performance), but I have to say that I didnt find the more beloved original all that better.
It's not a bad film by any means, there's definitely a few moments of hilarity, quite a few others of chuckling and Alec Guiness and Peter Sellers are in genius form, but on the whole, I found it slightly disappointing and uneven.
6/10
Watched A Film Last Night Called:
#2280 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.233.151] on 2008/03/04 13:22:26
Catacomb.
Set in that part under Paris which was linked to in the inspiration thread a little while ago, with all of the skulls.
The first part of the film bored me, the leading female character seemed horrendously pathetic and skinny. But the middle picked up, dragged on for a bit, and then the ending completely surprised me.
Have you seen this nitin? I'd like to hear what you think about this one.
Also Ladykillers:
Havent seen the original, I just remeber the new one with Tom Hanks, but the scene with the explosives and I.B.S. is hilarious. Infact it was pretty funny. Just remembering the plot makes me laugh out loud!
There's Defnitely Funny Bits
#2281 posted by nitin [124.168.111.104] on 2008/03/04 13:26:24
in the new one, just not consistent enough in my book. And I hated the marlon wayans character.
Catacmob? This one??
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt044947...
That's never likely to make it to oz cinemas, probably be a straight to dvd in a year or so :)
Yeah - I Think Thats The One...
#2282 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.233.151] on 2008/03/04 13:52:22
...I dunno, the film had its many shortcomings, but lets just say it surprised me. Also the set was very cool. It would make a good Quake level! Infact it reminded me of Februus Depth or that Mike Woodham level that came out last year.
I dont want to spoil it for anybody. The plot itself is what surprised me.
Speaking of Marlon Wayans, have you ever seen Dont Be A Menace To Society When Drinking Your Juice In South Central? He was possibly better cast in that!
Oh Yeah
#2283 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.233.151] on 2008/03/04 13:54:49
It came out to rent on DVD in England either this week or last week i think, so you might get it sooner than you think. I dont know how long you guys have to wait for DVD releases in Australia.
Actually Speaking Of Recent Horror
#2284 posted by nitin [124.168.111.104] on 2008/03/04 14:08:45
anyone seen the newish french movie called Inside? I've heard good stuff about that one. The first hour of Haute Tension is still the best horror I've seen in the last few years (along with The Descent).
Hot Fuzz
#2285 posted by scar3crow [127.255.255.255] on 2008/03/04 18:35:22
I watched this 4 times in 3 days... I loved that film so much, I found the whole lot of it hilarious, and in someways preferred the first portion of the movie just due to the humorous exchanges and facial expressions.
I also really really liked the music cues for some reason, I actually would like to own this movie, seeing as how I enjoyed it just as much the 4th time as the 1st. Need to see Shaun of the Dead.
Watched It Yesterday
#2286 posted by negke [82.83.0.74] on 2008/03/04 18:47:45
I didn't fall asleep but I wasn't overly intrigued either. It's not nearly as funny as the other Pegg/Frost stuff. Felt too long. The action ending reminded me of the over-the-top imaginary gun fight in one episode of Spaced - they probably liked the idea so much that they had to repeat it with real guns.
Bah
#2287 posted by Spirit [127.255.255.255] on 2008/03/18 20:58:41
Shoot Em Up
Weird potpourri of "comedy", "cool" and awesome.
The annoying "wawawaaaaawawawawawawaaaa&qu... music in the shooting scenes almost made me switch off right after 5 minutes as it ruined the nice atmosphere (that the start had) completely. Nothing to watch two times.
Clive Owen would make a great Max Payne. :)
#2288 posted by Spirit [80.171.85.210] on 2008/03/24 11:57:00
New movie from the maker of Pirate Baby's Cabana Battle Street Fight 2006
Kings of Power 4 Billion %
http://thepiratebay.org/tor/409626...
...
#2289 posted by starbuck [92.235.196.172] on 2008/03/24 14:40:31
The Mist
Cheesy horror-ish film based on a Stephen King novella and starring the punisher guy (also known to maybe 4 or 5 people as Thomas Jane).
Somewhat surprising project choice for the director/producer of The Shawshank Redemption and the Green Mile, it's really quite a simple action/horror tale of a DEADLY MIST descending on a little town in bumfuck-ville USA. The film launches into the action really quickly and before long there's a load of folk stuck in a supermarket with a thick mist outside that may or may not be hiding frightening creatures (Spoiler: It is).
Most of the film is about the interactions of the people grouped together, and how people change when fear sets in. Specifically the film focuses on people being more susceptible to religious zealotry when they're scared, although I thought that whole theme grated a bit.
Most of the antagonism in the film is from other trapped people, either refusing to believe the situation, being unwilling to try to escape, or religious types trying to sacrifice people to the mist.
Punisher guy is a solid lead actor, and a pretty good action star, although I wish he'd work on his acting in the "screams of regret and guilt" department. Really awkward, that's all I'm saying.
The ending of the film differs from the book, but it was approved by King and it's actually very good, and although I could see it coming but I'm still impressed they actually went the way they did. Overall it's what you'd expect, maybe worth a 6/10 or so, not worth paying much for unless you specifically like the genre, but it's a pretty good ride, don't worry about doing any heavy thinking (or being very scared to be honest).
Also it stars the Shermanator.
Serpico, 1973 Or So
#2290 posted by bambuz [91.152.87.250] on 2008/03/25 22:26:32
Well. There's the seventies grit, crime and police testosterone but there's some warmth too. There's Al Pacino who in the beginning feels, or at least felt to me, like he's just Al Pacino again but the magic starts working. Perfect casting.
After watching this, it's easy to recognize they don't make movies for adults anymore.
This was based on a novel and directed by Sidney Lumet. A friend of mine recommended.
I recommend to people who have some patience to watch it. It's a good movie.
Porco Rosso, 1990 Or So
#2291 posted by bambuz [91.152.87.250] on 2008/03/25 22:40:29
Another Ghibli masterpiece. They are ambitious and go the extra mile. A right kind of mix of fantasy and detailed realism. I'd explain more but I'd just spoil, well I can give one example: the throttle rod in the piston engined aircraft has a locking lever that has to be pushed so the lever moves. This is shown. I can't imagine anyone but the Japanese actually having the work ethic and appreciation of the viewer to do this. Or just having and showing the appreciation and wonder of free flight, in a way that's not extremely dumbed.
To mention technical things, there are a few places with nice 3 D changes of view, some drawn with high count of frames that is just so pleasing to the eye. Although there are a couple of places where they've skimped on the animation like sometimes in level cruise flight where the same plane slide without attitude animation is just moved linearly above the background.
But overall, a damn inspiring film, in so many ways. The environments and the actions and the motivations are just so fascinating and right and the whole atmosphere is pure beauty, magic and awesome. The hero is perhaps the most symphatetic ever.
Of course, most people think cartoons are for kids only. Judging from the ads too.
I don't go to movies anymore, I've sworn enough times after lousy waste of time...
This was using a ticket I had had since last summer that was going to expire in April. The old Ghibli stuff is the only worthwhile thing, it's a good idea that they show them in major theaters nowadays. Totoro was the rerun last year, and they've shown the newer stuff too.
Screamers
#2292 posted by Spirit [80.171.29.32] on 2008/03/27 21:54:03
Screamers (1995)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt011436...
Cheesy clichee dialogs, some not so great actors, awesome environmentals and buildings, nice dark soundtrack, nice story (based on a book by Philip K. Dick, guess I will read that). The start is rather weak and cheap, it gets much better when they are "showing less" and the story sinks in. For me the ending ruined the good impression of the second half again though, like so often.
The environments alone are worth watch this if you like post-nuclear dystopian snowy AWESOMENESS.
http://www.quaddicted.com/stuff/sc...
Oooh
#2293 posted by DaZ [80.41.131.206] on 2008/03/28 02:51:15
Screenshot looks interesting, I will have to have a look at that!
30 Days Of Night
#2294 posted by megaman [84.63.52.136] on 2008/03/28 14:53:17
what's it with these shitty scripts & creature designs lately?
http://img258.imageshack.us/my.php... i loled
Also, the director eneds to learn about subtlety, cutting and making your actors use some other expression than "blank stare" or "evile stare" :(
Serpico Rocks
#2295 posted by nitin [127.255.255.255] on 2008/03/30 06:47:54
check out luet's other stuff if you liked thta, Dog Day Afternoon and Network.
Yea
#2296 posted by bambuz [91.152.87.250] on 2008/03/30 20:16:25
I've seen Failsafe (however you spell it). Twice actually.
The same friend originally recommended Dog Day Afternoon and Serpico. So that's on my list.
Some Stuff I Saw Before I Went Away
#2297 posted by nitin [124.168.96.218] on 2008/04/02 13:05:39
The Winslow Boy (1999) - pretty effective period piece from David Mamet about a famous old english legal case (essentially a variation on the david v goliath theme).
Its fairly predictable plot wise but the writing is good, the acting is good and it interestingly makes some of the big scenes in this type of movie (ie trial etc) happen off screen with the focus on the consequences and effects ont he characters.
6.5/10
Fists in the Pocket (1965) - Quite an impressive look at a young mind that is slowly but surely disintegrating.
Filled with anger and tortured by frustration at having family members that are either physically or mentally incapacitated, the main character in Mario Bellochio's debut film resorts to the only way he sees out - to get rid of them all.
It's a dark and disturbing look at the downward spiral of a young outcast epilectic's sanity and is aided by a tremendous performance by Lou Castel in the main role.
Ultimately though, the singular one note nature of the film renders it a very dour and downbeat affair.
7/10
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford - I was quite disappointed by Andrew Dominik's meditation on celebrity and identity in the form of a western.
It's a pity because its beautifully shot and scored, has two excellent performances by Casey Affleck and Brad Pitt and the last 30 min or so, plus two dinner table conversations in the middle of the film, are great cinema.
But the rest of it is unfortunately very disjointed and unfocused, resulting in an overdrawn and muddled movie that never meets its ambitions.
5.5/10
Lust Caution - Before going away I made some comments about Black Book, an exciting, fun but substanceless action blockbuster from Paul Verhoeven. This has almost exactly the same general plot but Ang Lee's movie is a more complex, layered, subtle, spectacular and also frustrating work.
The movie is set in japanese occupied China during WWII and focuses on the actions of a resistance group, particularly those of a young, naive girl played spectacularly by newcomer Tang Wei. The relationship between her and Tony Leung's character, an officer in the chinese collaboration, forms the centre of the film.
The acting and writing are of a very high quality, the look and mood is perfect and the plot compelling.
However, the pacing does leave a lot to be desired which is a shame because it would have otherwise made this excellent film into a great one.
7.5/10
White Heat (1949) - tightly written and acted old fashioned gangster film with an intrgiuing mother-son relationship at its core.
The relationship between James Cagney's gangster boss and his 'Ma' turns what would have been well made but routine fare into something a lot more impressive and also allows the scrip to come with some memorable and quotable dialogue.
7.5/10
#2298 posted by Spirit [80.171.28.76] on 2008/04/05 00:12:47
Run, Fat Boy, Run (2007)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt042541...
A generic clichee boring funny long tragecomedy (is that word used in english too?) that not even Simon Pegg can rescue from mediocrity. Not bad, not good, just non-exciting popcorn movie with some good laughs.
Death Proof
#2299 posted by Spirit [80.171.20.60] on 2008/04/07 22:47:47
What a piece of shit. Well deserved being a flop in cinema (no idea about Planet Terror, that one is prolly much better). It's boring, the story is stupid, the "omg old movie effect" effects are bad, the girls are ugly, Tarantino is a massive wanker or what? Does he think if he, the god, makes a bad movie it automatically becomes good? Bah, big disappointment.
Tarantino
#2300 posted by DaZ [80.41.131.206] on 2008/04/07 22:57:13
everything after Pulp Fiction has been a let down.
Step Up 2: The Streets
#2301 posted by starbuck [92.235.196.172] on 2008/04/08 01:20:25
A tour de france! Even better than the first film, showcasing a realistic interpretation of the turmoil and gritty reality of life on the streets while dancing to average hip hop in slow-motion. The screenwriters cleverly decided to only use lines of dialogue that had previously appeared more than a dozen times in other films, in a satire on the mainstream nature of modern pop culture. This also allowed the focus of the viewer to remain firmly on the slow motion dancing, and trying to ignore the racist undertones which underpin most of the scenes.
OH DEAR/10
#2302 posted by rj [86.1.160.132] on 2008/04/08 09:03:41
i saw cloverfield the other night
it could have been a very average godzilla-esque monster flick, but the blair witch style filming made it enjoyable. some very tense moments & good overall atmosphere, even if some of the characters were a little annoying
Death Proof
#2303 posted by nitin [127.255.255.255] on 2008/04/08 11:48:49
I quite liked the first half but found the second half to be trash.
Shortish reviews of some that I saw on the weekend plus one last night :
Before the Devil Knows You're Dead - easily Sidney Lumet's best film in 25 years (after all his last one was a courtroom 'comedy' starring Vin Diesel) but while it's a return to form, it falls short of the great stuff he made during the 70's.
It’s a well made but predictable movie with good acting, good writing and a permeating mood of despair throughout. Philip Seymour Hoffman continues to demonstrate that he can pretty much do anything and he gets good support from Albert Finney and Marisa Tomei (and to a lesser extent Ethan Hawke who tends to overact everything but is still effective).
7-7.5/10
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) - the fourth great film from Woody Allen and I really can’t fault it despite the score I give it. Everything works, the ensemble cast of Michael Caine, Mia Farrow, Barbara Hershey, Dianne Weist, Max Von Sydow and Allen himself is perfect, the writing and characterisations are of a very high standard, there's no scene that is out of place and it ends well.
8/10
Mirror (1975) - probably Andrei Tarkovsky's most difficult film, and that's a big statement in itself, this autobiographical version of his life requires you to know a fair bit about Tarkovsky himself and/or russian history to fully appreciate it. Its no normal biopic though, it’s the film equivalent of the stream of consciousness technique in writing with no concept of time and space and pretty much a visual depiction of how memory is, a collection of events from different periods that seem to segue into each other over time.
But even if you don’t fully understand it, and I certainly didn’t, it's quite easy to appreciate the filmmaking skill on display. Most of the individual segments work well on their own and as is usual with Tarkovsky, the imagery is hypnotic.
6/10
In the Valley of Elah - Tommy Lee Jones seems to be recently perfecting the character of the disillusioned and bitter old man and his work here is probably the best incarnation of that character.
Paul Haggis' iraq themed film suffers from his usual heavy handed and contrived writing but is rescued by the performances of Jones and Charlize Theron in the main roles and by the camerawork of the great Roger Deakins.
7/10
Cloverfield
#2304 posted by nitin [127.255.255.255] on 2008/04/08 11:49:30
is it true the camerawork here is more vomit inducing thann in the recent bourne films?
#2305 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2008/04/08 13:12:05
Cloverfield is fucking awesome. End of story.
It's shot via camcorder so if you easily get motion sick, you might not like it. But the thing is, it needs to be shot that way to work. The shots of the monster are so pants tightening it overrides my desire to complain about the camera work.
Cloverfield
#2306 posted by Bal [90.2.39.119] on 2008/04/08 23:10:04
Movie is ok, but no nitin, it's nowhere near vomit inducing as the 2 last Bourne films, those were friggin horrible, way to go for making the shots cheaper to produce by cutting them every 5 milliseconds.
#2307 posted by nitin [127.255.255.255] on 2008/04/11 11:36:16
Bonnie & Clyde (1967) - not too sure about the score but otherwise its hard to fault this great great film. Although the shifts in tone are rapid, they are never jarring and always flow well despite the movie switching from a light hearted tone to a more darker one quite frequently.
The performances are uniformly excellent from Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway, Gene Hackman and Estelle Parsons and it really is unfair to single one out but Dunaway's melancholic portrayal of Bonnie was the most impressive in my eyes.
There is a great attention to character and unlike most movies which rely heavily on background and events to build character, this one seems to do it by focusing on small actions and gestures that reveal a lot.
9/10
Quiet Earth (1985)
#2308 posted by bambuz [91.152.87.250] on 2008/04/12 20:26:24
I don't know what dictates that if you are doing movies, only crappy scifi will do. It must be some film director conspiracy.
This one was a nice movie in many instances and quite well and detailedly done but as a whole just didn't work.
From New Zealand by the way. So much potential, but the script is just so bad. There were some nice points in it but the badness overcame.
#2309 posted by [127.255.255.255] on 2008/04/12 20:29:24
,.mkl
Rescue Dawn
#2310 posted by RickyT23 [90.199.193.20] on 2008/04/14 00:00:05
Watched this in UK, I dont know if would have the same title in oher countries...
Christian Bale plays a US pilot back in the Vietnam war, who crashes in Laos and is a POW.
I liked this film, it was gripping but not too gritty, reasonably well acted and made me laugh a few times near the end. Quite long, but not too long.
Good! :-D
7-8/10
Rescue Dawn
#2311 posted by nitin [127.255.255.255] on 2008/04/14 12:46:47
yep, pretty good, bale cant do any wrong at the moment.
if you liked the story, check out the doco Little Dieter needs to Fly, by the same director and quite interesting (and different).
We Own The Night
#2312 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.233.151] on 2008/04/14 16:01:19
Joaquin Phoenix (sp?) plays a New York club manager who get caught up in the war against drugs with his brother and father both high-ranking police officers, and his friends/colleagues being various gang members...
This film pretty much blew me away. Phoenix gives a truly stunning performance as a man under unbelievable stress who makes the transformation from being 'on the fence' to having taken his side, and defending his family.
The film is beautifully shot and the screenplay plays out in a manor which gives an unbelievable feeling of tension/unease, it was truly gripping. The action sequences pull no punches in displaying the horrors of what has to go on in a war against drug dealers, and it is this shock value which I believe gave this film a real edge. Outstanding!
8.5/10
Mr Brooks
#2313 posted by mwh [127.255.255.255] on 2008/04/15 07:37:21
Odd film about a serial killer. Could have been a lot more interesting than it was, 6/10?
We Own The Night
#2314 posted by nitin [127.255.255.255] on 2008/04/15 13:53:04
phoenix was very good and the rainstorm car chase was brilliant, but I didnt care for the rest of it as I found it to be a poor imitation of other better movies.
Ben X
#2315 posted by megaman [92.72.9.25] on 2008/04/16 00:47:11
http://imdb.com/title/tt0953318/
is one of the best movies i've seen in the last two years.
#2316 posted by nitin [124.168.53.122] on 2008/04/17 14:25:56
American Gangster - ridley scott's latest shamelessly steals from The Godfather, Scarface, Serpico and Heat but despite all that thievery and a narrative that looks to be far too familiar, scott manages to make the film not feel all that familiar.
Part of it is down to the attention given to certain superfluous scenes which don’t really add much to the narrative flow but do a lot in setting up character and mood. The rest of it is probably down to a reasonably intelligent script and impressive performances from Crowe and Washington, the latter finally doing something worthwhile in recent times. It's also brilliantly shot, successfully emulating the Godfather's shadowy style in grand manner without resorting to direct plagiarism.
7.5/10
Futurama : Bender's Big Score - Much like The Simpsons movie, how much you like this will really depend on how much you liked the latter part of the series. Personally, I found the first 2 seasons great and the last 2 seasons above average at best and the movie is much more like the later seasons, only longer.
4.5/10
Dawn of the Dead (1978) - rewatch and I don’t like it, in fact I actually much prefer the remake (which despite all its flaws had a brilliant first and last 20 min).
George Romero's original is a B movie through and through. The acting is bad, it looks bad and the direction's average. Sure, it's ambitious with all its attempts at social commentary and the recent movies that have copied its themes have probably not executed them as well but they are better movies on the whole. I just couldnt get into this one.
4.5/10
Inside
#2317 posted by negke [82.82.164.200] on 2008/04/20 09:15:14
Thanks for this movie, gibbie...
#2318 posted by nitin [210.84.17.222] on 2008/04/26 05:13:35
Oliver Twist (1948) - All the david lean films I have seen have been great and this one is no exception. There are certain omissions from the Dickens story but I personally think it works better because of them as the original story got far too contrived by the end.
The look and atmosphere are exceptional and the casting is first rate, with alec guiness putting in yet another memorable performance as Fagin.
8/10
Mouchette (1967) - kind of a companion piece to Bresson's earlier Au Hasard Balthasar and again utilising his unique technique of stripping away any emotive acting and leaving it up to the viewer to determine how to react. Its really a brilliant technique and it works extremely well in all his films, but the way it works here from about the 30 min mark on is quite remarkable.
Essentially a coming of age story for a young, outcast girl in a small french town but one that is enveloped in cruelty, disconnection and lack of companionship. Not an easy watch, but quite a worthwhile one.
7/10
Dark Victory (1939) - far too melodramatic story about the impact of sudden terminal illness with the great Bette Davis surprisingly uneven in the main role.
The characters are actually quite well etched but the plotting tends to get quite heavy handed and during the more serious moments, Davis veers into overacting quite often. It&#65533;s a pity, because when the film and Davis do work, its quite a neat show.
5.5/10
A Foreign Affair (1948) - disappointing effort from Billy Wilder, which is compounded by the fact that the material actually had quite a lot of potential.
The tone is completely wrong in most scenes, turning what should have been an intriguing dark drama into a mostly lighthearted comedy. Its strange because it comes from the period where Wilder was at his darkest rather than from his later period of comedies. Not a complete misfire because the dialogue and exchanges still retain his classy wit, but definitely a missed opportunity.
5.5/10
A Mighty Heart - Considering how prone the material could have been to exploitative sentimentality and how much it depends on information bombardment, I found that there was expert control demonstrated by the director and actors. The docudrama approach is very well done and I particularly appreciated attention to little details such as conversations between background characters, although admittedly this does not come across in the subtitles.
Jolie was very good but so was most of the rest of the largely unknown cast. It would have been a better film though if there was more time given to the aftermath of Daniel Pearl's death rather than leaving that as an aside at the end.
7/10
Time to Leave (2005) - pretentious, self conscious, but more importantly, dull and distant movie about a fashion photographer who is diagnosed with terminal cancer and struggles to determine what to do with the very short time he has left.
Francois Ozon usually makes movies that have the first two characteristics mentioned above but generally they are also good films. This time he struggles to involve his audience in his story because of poor characterisation and eye rolling occurrences. The acting is good and there's even a cameo from the great Jeanne Moreau but Ozon can do much better than this.
4/10
Wag The Dog (1997) - extremely average, pseudo satire that thinks its a lot cleverer and funnier than it actually is. The content had a lot more potential but Barry Levinson seems content in just making an average tongue in cheek 'comedy' in which a fixer, called in to cover up the president's pre-election sex scandal, decides that a fake hollywood produced war is the answer.
The writing lacks bite and the acting varies, with Hoffman and Deniro sleepwalking through their roles and Anne Heche dreadful as the president's PR manager.
4.5-5/10
2 More
#2319 posted by nitin [210.84.17.222] on 2008/04/26 05:28:53
The Mist - firstly, if you get the chance, watch the director preferred B&W version. Both the standard colour and b&w version are on the dvd, and it only took me a a couple of min of flicking through to be convinced that the b&w version is heaps better. It looks much more striking, the feel is much more claustrophobic, the CGI looks better and the whole thing just has a more foreboding atmosphere, which is a key ingredient in a horror film. Doubt many theatres would show this version, but it's really the better way to see it.
Secondly, it's the best horror film in years (well, at least the b&w version is anyway), probably since The Descent. There's a few internal logic gaps, but if you're willing to get past them, it's a well acted and well written movie thats just a whole lot of fun.
Like The Descent, although there is gore present, its not the focus as it is in so many other 'horror' films coming out these days. Instead, there is a lot more attention to character and also psychological horror. It goes onto the list of recent movies with memorable endings.
7-7.5/10
Shanghai Gesture (1941) - No idea how this got past the censors back in the day, it's a dark, bleak film with amoral characters in abundance. It's also another highly stylised and engrossing movie from Josef von Sternberg with tons of atmosphere and an interesting story centering on a gambling house in Shanghai where al sorts of shady dealing and characters go on.
Well worth checking out.
7-7.5/10
Nitin
#2320 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/04/27 22:19:18
Are you talking about the new The Mist? Isn't that a remake (maybe I'm mistaken) and isn't it based on Steven King (imho, a hack whose output far exceeds his talent)?
If it is like The Descent though I will watch it... the Descent was awesome, to me it seemed like there were hints of something... some seriously fucked up imagery seemed to hint to me that it wasn't just nature, or a person's perception of nature, but some "third party" involved (outside her mind, not just within). The vaguest, creepiest hints - similar to (the best of) Lovecraft's method, even, where the nature of the threat is not totally certain or defined.
Damn that was creepy.
Tronyn
#2321 posted by nitin [210.84.32.145] on 2008/04/27 23:27:01
yep, the new The Mist. Pretty sure it's not a remake, and yes it is based on the King book (and unfortunately it kind of shows in some scenes).
It's not really like The Descent, much more straighforward than that, I just think it's the best new horror film since then. But starbuck made some comments earlier that are valid (he didnt like it as much as I did). But I'm not sure if he saw the b&w version, which is a lot better in terms of atmosphere and addresses a few of the shortcomings from the color version.
Tronyn
#2322 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.5.69] on 2008/04/28 08:06:14
You're confusing The Mist and The Fog.
Who Wants
#2323 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2008/05/02 22:08:58
to go see Iron Man??? YEAH!!!!!
#2324 posted by [84.110.230.248] on 2008/05/02 23:05:36
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Best Post Ever
#2325 posted by rj [86.1.160.132] on 2008/05/02 23:42:09
#2326 posted by nitin [203.217.91.3] on 2008/05/06 12:21:52
Juno - its pretty obvious within the first 5 min that there's going to be a rhythm of speech that's just not normal and/or realistic. It doesnâ€™t take long to get used to it, but I still found that in this particular case, it was unnecessary, try hard clever and distracting.
Luckily, the longer the movie goes on the less it features and it also helps that the movie works, not as a comedy but as a lightweight drama. Most of that is down to good characterisations and strong performances all around which help paper over the showy, pretend cool dialogue that plagues most of the first half hour of the movie.
7/10
Marathon Man (1976) - surely one of the greatest thrillers ever? It fires in pretty much every department and the only weak link is the slightly convoluted plot but there is so much attention to little details and the way Conrad Hall's camerawork and William Goldman's script combine in establishing character is quite remarkable. J
ohn Scheslinger amps up the suspense beautifully and Hoffman, Olivier, Scheider and co put in great work.
8.5/10
The Taste of Cherry (1997) - Abbas Kiarostami's movie is fairly basic in plot, a middle aged man drives around Tehran looking for a man who will do a 'job for him', and even more basic in style. But amongst all that simplicity, he has quite a number of involving characters to introduce and quite a few interesting turns to make.
It all happens slowly, taking 20 min or so to reveal the 'job' and another 40 min or so till the main character finds someone to do it, but interspersed between all those plot revelations are conversations that appear to be banal but are rich in ideas.
But then there's the ending. Kiarostami builds to an extraordinary climax and then does something that is likely to catch most people off guard, and I'm guessing slightly annoyed. I cant say I understand the need for the last sequence, I personally think the movie would have been better off leaving it out as it distracts rather than adds to the penultimate sequence which is brilliantly executed.
7/10
Blow Out (1981) - Brian De Palma has a habit of taking A grade material from elsewhere and making entertaining B movies out of them. Sometimes though, like in Dressed to Kill, the A grade material he 'borrows' is outright classic stuff and an entertaining B movie in the same vein is just not enough (it was Psycho in that particular case).
For this one, he combines two great films, Coppola's The Conversation and Antonioni's Blow Up, and the result is the same, a mildly entertaining movie with some great camerawork (there's two scenes near the end that are equally as good as anything in both the original films) but with a poor script and patchy performances.
A pity, because when he gets it right, he's a very talented filmmaker.
5.5/10
Attack On Precinct 13
#2327 posted by bambuz [91.152.87.250] on 2008/05/10 02:22:56
Cheesy, lots of continuity problems, really stupid things (the outside is full of snipers, so naturally all the characters hang out at the door windows and stick their neck out every now and then, the baddies are just ultra evil with no reason etc etc...
But it has some charm too... It avoids the over-emotionalism and screaming that plagues many tense enclosed movies and plays in general.
The theme is so extremely familiar, I'm thinking some C64 game, but couldn't find it in my sids. Anybody know? This one recycles the melody too (fast forward a bit)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayV...
so you can hear it. Carpenter was multi-talented as he made that himself.
American Psycho
#2328 posted by bambuz [91.152.87.250] on 2008/05/10 02:45:38
Heh, this was both parody and madness. Much better than what I expected it to be. I still can't judge Bale. He might have potential, I say. I don't really know - it's either hard to pull this kind of (weird) movie off well (just the freaking business cards ffs) or then it was just usual but sleek.
Is it resting on Bale or the usual "everything just works" smoothness? Or both? Or what? The message?
I guess I suck at understanding movies. Not having slept last night might have something to do with it.
If you remember yuppies from the late eighties, even vaguely, then this movie is definitely worth watching.
I Didnt Care Much For That Movie Either
#2329 posted by nitin [124.168.108.52] on 2008/05/10 05:52:34
but bale's a gun. His recent string of movies is a quite a good track record.
I'm Into Mergers And Aquisitions
#2330 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/05/10 06:59:00
I've been way more impressed by what Bale's done post-American Psycho, but to me it is a great movie. The sarcastic (but not overly so) attitude is what gives it its awesome mood, I mean when he pronounces lines like "And Less Materialism!" it's hard to tell if he means it and he's exposing their hypocrisy (and wants to kill them), or if he is just joking and is totally beyond the pale (and wants to kill them). Hell, if they hadn't cast Bale as Batman because of that movie they could have cast him as the Joker. There was a lot of shallow bullshit in the 80s; the movie seems faithful to the book's idea that the overload of pleasure could lead to lethal boredom.
Did You Guys
#2331 posted by megaman [92.72.14.168] on 2008/05/10 13:15:08
read the book?
Unbelievable
#2332 posted by bambuz [91.152.87.250] on 2008/05/10 15:06:49
So John Carpenter's self-made synth theme from The Attack on Precinct 13 from the seventies ended up in ... Xenon 2 megablast! I wondered where it was familiar from! Kickass tune. I remember it from the pc speaker before I had a soundcard.
The original Amiga version seems to be best on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6j...
Megaman
#2333 posted by nitin [210.84.24.154] on 2008/05/11 02:01:33
yeah, but to be honest, I didnt care much for the book either so that probably explains my reaction.
I've Had A Nitin-like Week!
#2334 posted by mwh [118.92.94.26] on 2008/05/11 11:51:50
Perfume
Very, very odd. Good in parts, but mostly odd (not least being made by Germans, set in Paris with a more or less entirely British cast). I'd rate this the canonical surrealistic fish out of 10.
The Golden Compass
Fuck me, this was bad. I really like the books, but the movie was very disappointing. It makes you realize how good the Lord of the Rings adaptations were, even with their flaws. Don't bother/10.
Iron Man
I really enjoyed this, despite or quite possibly because of the really stupid bits. Have a laugh/10.
I am Legend
It's hard to say what I'd have thought of this if I hadn't read the book. Probably: "This is pretty good, but wow is it a lot like 28 days later". Instead of: "Hm, I'd never really thought of how much 28 days later (and lots of other movies) ripped off I am Legend... WTF THEY DICKED WITH THE ENDING!". Probably worth the rental/10.
#2335 posted by Spirit [213.39.214.58] on 2008/05/13 23:23:07
Big Nothing (2006)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt048808...
Watched this for featuring Simon Pegg (not expecting much as it is not one of "his" movies though). It is less of a comedy than it is a black drama thriller something. Nothing that shifts up the mood. Very nice images, soundtrack, acting, etc. Really really dark (I underline this). David Schwimmer is kind of one of those hip "generic introvert noir" guys like Clive Owen, I like those!
Sure a recommendation if you like black humoured films or anything I just blabbered made you interested.
Stuff
#2336 posted by nitin [210.84.24.154] on 2008/05/14 11:49:39
The Wrong Man (1956) - Most people say Rebecca is the most unhitchcock Hitchcock film, but I put my hand up for this one. Sure, the plot is similar to numerous hitchcock films, Henry Fonda's character being incorrectly mistaken for a wanted man, but the verite approach taken here (with a supposed true story) is completely different to any other Hitch movie.
It's still a well polished affair, despite no real Hitchcockian moments, mainly due to Henry Fonda and Vera Miles putting in excellent performances.
7/10
Robocop - Hadnt fully seen this before, it's another sly litlle black humoured film from Paul Verhoeven that's a lot of fun. It also surprisingly works dramatically, quite a task when the most you can see of the main character is the bottom half of his face.
7/10
Pierrot Le Fou (1965) - I find Godard frustrating, even when he's at his best, and this is no exception. The first 50 min or so are close to some of the best cinema I have ever seen as Jean Paul Belmondo's character runs off with his babysitter (played by Anna Karina) and their subsequent road trip becomes Godard's mouthpiece for anything and everything he wants to say about life, war, politics, and even his failing relationship with his wife (also Anna Karina). It's bizarre, disjointed, fearless and utterly brilliant.
However, it just cant keep up with its own desire to burn through as many ideas as quickly as possible whilst breaking almost every rule of cinema. The second half is not quite as engrossing and that makes the pretentiousness all the more noticeable.
Karina and Belmondo are magnetic all the way through though and make sure it never sinks under its own weight.
7.5/10
Wings of Desire (1988) - The plot and central idea are quite simple, the film follows two angels, Damiel (Bruno Ganz) and Cassiel (Otto Sander) as they float over the skies of Berlin observing and listening in on the lives of the city’s inhabitants, with Damiel becoming convinced over the course of the movie that he has to experience human life rather than just observe it. The same idea was tackily remade as City of Angels.
But Wim Wenders' original is a much more meditative, improvisational film that lies somewhere between the works of Andrei Tarkovski (who is one of the people that movie's dedicated to) and Wong Kar Wai's recent stuff.
I dont think its entirely successful, it's a bit too disjointed and some scenes are grossly overlong, but its definitely ambitious, original and interesting and when it all clicks together, quite touching.
7-7.5/10
The Last Picture Show (1971) - brilliant movie set in a small town in Texas and focusing on the friendship between two young men (Timothy Bottoms and Jeff Bridges). In doing so, it manages to work in a number of well written characters and their relationships and is a showcase for what is possibly the best piece of ensemble acting I've come across. There is not one weak link here and everyone involved, even in the tiniest role, puts in a high class performance.
Its also beautifully written and shot and is one of the great debut films in history (from Peter Bogdanovich).
8.5/10
Cloverfield - pretty solid little movie even if its best moments are directly derivative of Alien/s. The camerawork is indeed quite annoying in places, its one thing to try and make a Blair Witch meets Godzilla movie, its another to have a character that is an uncoordinated lunatic behind the camera.
But on the whole, its not too bad, and is reasonably thrilling in a number of spots. More carnage next time please.
6.5/10
REC
#2337 posted by metlslime [98.210.181.179] on 2008/05/22 10:46:14
Rec is a spanish zombie movie, where people get trapped in an apartment building which has... zombies. It's one of those movies where the whole movie is supposedly recovered footage from a camera that was used by the characters.
It's pretty good. Moves fast, well-edited, feels different than the usual "zombie siege" scenario (everyone's inside, zombies outside.)
Sunshine
#2338 posted by bambuz [193.167.6.23] on 2008/05/23 17:22:31
Well.
Scifi with serious attitude, been a long time since that.
Excellent sets. Just fabulous stuff. Who designed the space suits? Nothing felt cheap. Well perhaps there could have been more zero gravity.
Good casting.
Good direction in many senses, had both that realism and also those extreme effects and sense of awe. (A bit too much camera effects imo though.)
But what the fuck. Is there some line in movie director contracts that the scripts have to be fucking idiotic?
The following includes SPOILERS.
The elaborately built suspension of "this is really happening" breaks just too many times: Do we have itty bitty sized spacecraft flying into the sun and having some massive instant effect? Yes. Do we have only one man out of a big crew doing all the trajectory and guidance calculations, and then doing a trivial mistake, costing lives, with nobody checking the work? Yes. Do we run out of oxygen in a huge flying space station in a matter of few hours? Yes. Do we have a rogue leader with a god complex? Yes. Turned partially monster? Yes. Do the supposedly calm and professional very thoroughly picked crew members argue, fight (obligatory machos) and panic (obligatory frail girl) constantly? Well, not all the time, but still somewhat.
At least there were no space aliens or gun fights.
Probably this is as good as it can get as a modern scifi movie, and it still sucks compared to what it could be.
The script. The script. Please. What is it always preventing it from being even remotely sensible? All the countless millions and the innumerable work hours derailed for want of a reasonable even remotely plausible and un-cliched script.
Take for example Risto Isomäki's "Pimeän pilven ritarit" Finnish novel. It has it's good and bad moments, but overall it is quite similar to Sunshine (predates it by quite a lot though). A crew is sent to deflect an asteroid that is going to hit earth. I can spoil it to you since it's never going to be translated anyway. The craft uses a solar sail and on the return trip they must pass close to the sun. The solar sails rip and the crew must repair them, resulting in quite similar scenes compared to Sunshine, except more believable.
All in all somewhat nice but can't they get a single engineer or physicist to read the script through? It boggles the mind.
Sunshine
#2339 posted by DaZ [80.41.169.50] on 2008/05/23 20:35:17
I watched this again the other day and loved it, like you say the sets are absolutely fantastic!
I loved the camera effects used, and the sound effects too are just brilliant.
Yes there are issues with the plot, but imo the film manages to deal with them very well
...
#2340 posted by starbuck [92.233.159.212] on 2008/05/23 21:36:00
I was constantly amazed at how good it looked, especially for a UK film. The spacesuits, yes! Fantastic visual style, they had a slight 1970s tinge I thought.
The thing that let it down for me was definitely the ridiculous space-danger twist at the end. Oh dear.
Till That Dumb Last Act
#2341 posted by nitin [124.168.94.95] on 2008/05/24 02:11:26
its quite good isnt it, even though it rips the 3 big sci fi movies at every turn (Alien, 2001, Solaris).
And Since I'm Here
#2342 posted by nitin [124.168.94.95] on 2008/05/24 02:16:50
Do the Right Thing (1989) - pretty entertaining and amusing film from Spike Lee which centres on racial tensions in some Brooklyn suburb but works mainly because the characters and their interactions are interesting and because its visually inventive.
I don’t think its all that successful on a serious level, especially the last act, which seems not that well thought through. Still, kept me entertained throughout, john turturro and danny aiello are especially good value.
6.5-7/10
Tell No One (2006) - extremely disappointing french mystery/drama/thriller that is just plain silly, relies almost entirely on its plot (which is not very good) and is just poorly made.
Francois Cluzet plays a man who was the number one suspect in his wife's death and becomes the number one suspect again when similar deaths start happening 8 years later around the same place his wife was killed.
By the end, the plot folds back on itself so many times that you stop caring what little you did about the paper thin characters.
Having said all of that, I'm sure there will be an english remake at some point.
3.5-4/10
The Orphanage (2007) - its not only the americans who are currently highly unoriginal and derivative in the horror/thriller genre. This recent spanish offering, produced by Guillermo del Toro, borrows heavily from not only other recent spanish based movies in the genre (eg The Devil's Backbone, Pan's Labyrinth and The Others) but also from the recent asian horror wave (eg The Ring and Dark Water).
First time director Juan Antonio Bayone lacks the directorial skill of his producer and has no sense of storytelling and a very sloppy shooting style. Only the ending is well executed and even that, despite the good execution, does not deliver because its telegraphed far too early.
5/10
I Walked With a Zombie (1943) - firstly, quite possibly the worst title ever for what is actually a good film. Secondly, there is a kind of demented brilliance in taking the basic plot of Jane Eyre, transposing it to the Caribbean and mixing it with a bit of voodoo. The result is an impressive gothic drama made by Jacques Tourneur and produced by Val Lewton.
Tourneur was a master of using shadows and had a keen sense of ambience, atmosphere and otherworldly eeriness. He uses all those elements to make an ambiguous, interesting film that is quite entertaining.
7/10
Also, I believe the makers of the Saw movies are remaking this in the near future. Given what they have made so far, I'm sure the classiness will be replaced by an all out gorefest.
Sweeney Todd - I dont like musicals generally. My main issues with most musicals is that the songs don’t add to and break up the narrative too much and most of the musicals I like avoid this by integrating the songs into the narrative.
This one still has a few songs that seem fluffy but in general I had no problems. It also helps that the execution is of a very high standard and the lyrics and music are first rate too.
As for the rest of it, its one of Burton's most assured works and another of Depp's terrific performances (not that its Depp alone that works, Helena Bonham Carter and Alan Rickman are also excellent).
7.5/10
Cloverfield
#2343 posted by than [220.47.251.83] on 2008/05/24 16:07:39
I think the cameraman was a bit of a psycho. There was one section in particular where
[SPOILER]
they have to climb across from one apartment building into one that has fallen onto it. They are a few hundred feet up and the guy decides to turn off the camera as he climbs across the roof because it looks far to risky... only he turns it back on moments later whilst still not quite across the roof and with a bit of climbing to do. What a fucktard.
Also, what the hell happened to the monster at the end? It killed that guy and then it seemed to vanish and let the others escape. Maybe I passed out from fright and missed it?
[/SPOILER]
I enjoyed it though. Definitely go see it at the cinema I reckon... might be a bit late though.
#2344 posted by Willem [75.177.185.17] on 2008/05/24 17:23:35
I think they were still dealing with the monster at the end.
Spoiler
#2345 posted by nitin [124.168.94.95] on 2008/05/25 02:02:22
last sound clip is "It's Alive".
#2346 posted by nitin [124.168.51.72] on 2008/05/26 13:21:32
saw a number of things over (my) long weekend, Friday inadvertently turned into zombie movie day :
Planet Terror (2007) - this is more like it, Robert Rodriguez's effort for the Grindhouse double is heaps better than Tarantino's Death Proof. Much more fun, much more extreme and more in line with the sleazy B movies they were trying to emulate.
7/10
28 Weeks Later (2007) - much better than its predecessor 28 Days Later, mainly because it doesn’t self destruct with a lame last act. Juan Carlos Fresnadillo's movie is tenser, directed far more tautly and manages to incorporate social commentary without beating you over the head with it. There is a couple of moments of dubious plotting but they are overshadowed by the terrifically mounted suspense moments, of which there are many.
7-7.5/10
30 Days of Night (2007) - good premise, bad film. It reaches levels of stupidity that are just hard to fathom. The only good thing it does is make a great case for never ever combining quick cutting/hand held cameras with open shutter photography. I'm sure the intention was to make the action look more exciting, instead its all just a blurry, sped up mess.
3/10
I am Legend (2007) - did they even have a script for this film? There is zero narrative flow in this, absolutely terrible. And where did all the money go? The CGI is atrocious. Total rubbish.
2/10
Blast of Silence (1963) - rough, experimental and tedious noir film from Allen Barron that is aiming to be gritty, existential and bleak. The basic plot of following around a lone hitman preparing for his latest hit was done much better by Jean Pierre Melville in his classic film starring Alain Delon, Le Samourai. This one has a couple of nice bits, mainly with well written side characters, but is pretty average otherwise.
5.5/10
Stardust (2007) - quite enjoyable tongue in cheek fantasy adventure in the same vein as The Princess Bride, but I enjoyed this a lot more than that one. It zips along and never drags and while it never really takes off to any great heights, it's quite entertaining for most its duration.
7/110
Death of a Cyclist (1955) - Juan Antonio Bardem's great film takes the small incident of an adulterous couple running over a cyclist and uses it to comment on everything from the spanish civil war, the moral decay of society and the fickleness of relationships. And it does all that while still managing to tighten the screws in a Hitchcockian fashion so that the narrative isnt put aside. Theres also a very noticeable F Scott Fitzgerald feel to the world portrayed in the movie which is interesting if you like The Great Gatsby.
8/10
Beowulf (2007) - on the right track, its about time there was an adult orientated animated film. The execution's not quite there, I havent read the source material but you can tell it’s a great story with interesting themes, not all of which are explored here due to the breezy running time. Still, it's a fairly entertaining movie, albeit a light one, that is much better than the trailers suggested and with some excellently orchestrated action and drama scenes in the second half.
6/10
AvP2: Requiem
#2347 posted by RickyT23 [81.157.18.146] on 2008/05/28 17:51:46
Watched this for the second time the other night, the first time I was in a cinema but I was too close to the screen to really do anything other than crane my neck and I couldnt see the movie properly.
I like the film for a few things: it's pretty gruesome, er, the special effects aren't too bad...
Meh. Nope, running out of things I liked about it.
I just think that they skimped out on script (again) and character development. And the monster FX seemed forced. The gory parts were often cut. I prefer the movies from the eighties. The effects are cooler and more believeable because they ARENT done with computers. Robocop, Terminator, Aliens (OK some FX are computers, but mostly just fine set-pieces, good acting and clever screen-play as well as cool props) all were cool.
I dont like so much this shiny over polished computer effects approach we have to movies like that these days. They're just not gritty and dark enough. I dont know...
And
#2348 posted by nitin [124.168.125.153] on 2008/05/29 01:07:33
the fact that you can see whats going on, whereas the AVP movies (alon with most other recent stuff) are edited at 10 cuts a second with next to no lighting.
#2349 posted by nitin [124.168.125.153] on 2008/05/29 12:20:11
Rocky Balboa - pretty solid till it builds up to a silly climax fight which is very poorly executed. Apart from that, the writing and performances are quite good (save a few monologues which don’t sit well with Stallone's speech impediment).
6/10
Un Secret (2007) – well made movie about a boy in a jewish family in post-war france who learns about his family's past during the war and is forced to deal with the consequences. The story is told in a sequence of flashbacks, flash forwards and dream sequences which, though not hard to follow, do not seem to enhance the audience connection with the central characters.
The story is definitely its strongest point, and even a weak ending which probably worked better in book book form cannot derail it.
7/10
Harry Potter 5 : Better than the last one but still not very good - that pretty much says it all. Standard Potter flick which means there is the usual dodgy acting and scripting, some reasonable visuals and set pieces, but nothing that stays with you once the credits roll.
5.5/10
#2350 posted by nitin [210.84.23.75] on 2008/06/10 10:56:00
Elizabeth : Golden Age - since I was one of the few who thought the first was a pretty poor film, I didn’t have much expectations with this one. And yet it still managed to disappoint.
Its been bagged for being historically inaccurate, but the first one seemed to escape that criticism despite having the same shortcomings. The real problem is that the script is just plain bad almost plays out like a parody of a film like this, the direction is an absolute mess and only Samantha Morton is on the right page as to what sort of tone her performance should be in.
Cate Blanchett puts in probably one of the worst performances that’s ever been nominated for an oscar, abbie cornish is in way beyond her head and clive owen is ok in what is really a thankless role.
3-3.5/10
Fearless (2006) - fairly simplistic morality tale in the form of chinese martial arts period epic, but it works because jet li is amazing in the fight sequences (which are also very well choreographed) and ronnie yu directs well with a restrained style during the non-action moments that allows some of the corny bits to not really come through as badly as they might. There's also some great location photography of southern china which also gives it visual edge.
6/10
Cat People (1944) - classy old school thriller/drama by the Jacques Tourneur/Val Lewton combination that once again had its title greenlit before the script. Tourneur, as usual, does wonders with the camera for his material, utlizing light and shadow brilliantly in two very famous sequences that have been often imitated. The script is also very very good and far from the b movie you expect from the title.
Only some of the dodgy acting holds it back from being a great film.
7.5/10
Devils Advocate (1997) - this was pretty solid for close to two hours despite having keanu reeeves in a main role, some dubious plotting and shameless borrowing from Rosemary's Baby (and also one sequence lifted straight from Marathon Man).
Then it self implodes with an ending that just comes across as the scriptwriters not knowing where to go and ending up turning to pacino for another one of his long recent year rants. Which is a shame because up until then I thought he was actually pretty decent in a restrained yet oddly sinister performance.
6/10
Spider (2002) - excellent film about a fractured mind. Usually in a movie like this, it is difficult to get audiences to connect with the main character. Enter David Cronenberg, who takes you so far into his character's head that you cant help but nod at everything the character says and does.
This approach will probably put off a few people because through it the movie enters some dark and uncomfortable territory but its an unarguable display of great filmmaking skill and writing. Cronenberg is aided by fantastic performances from Ralph Fiennes, playing a mentally impaired man grappling with his past as a child, and Miranda Richardson, playing key roles that shouldn’t be given away.
7-7.5/10
Funny Games (1997) - tries to have its cake and eat it too, and almost succeeds. Michael Haneke's effort has a go at the audience for treating violence as entertainment but presents a catch 22 situation by making a disturbing, confronting movie that is also just very compelling to watch. The quality of the filmmaking is too good for the attempt to talk down to the viewer in having a part in whats happening on screen.
Its also been remade (shot for shot) by Haneke for US release.
6.5/10
#2351 posted by nitin [124.168.54.53] on 2008/06/15 02:28:34
Coup de Torchon (1981) - dark french comedy/drama by bertand tavernier set in french owned west africa in the 30's. Phillipe Noiret plays a small town's ineffectual local constable, who accepts condescension from his superiors and from other rich french occupants until he realizes that he can use his position to gain vengeance with impunity, resulting in him starting to kill everyone who previously regarded him as a fool.
Its excellent, slow burn stuff with Noiret quite effective in the main role and getting good support from Isabelle Huppert and Stehpane Audran. Tavernier juggles the different tones of his movie quite well, changing from light hearted mundaneness to outright bleakness to existential dilemma with ease.
The movie also has a neat circular narrative, opening and closing with a similar scene, but with markedly different meaning which effectively highlights the change in the main character over the course of the film.
7.5/10
The Devil is a Woman (1936) - fun little movie from the Josef Von Sternberg/Marlene Dietrich collaboration that is not amongst their best work together but is still reasonably entertaining throughout. Dietrich plays her usual unattainable vamp character but is also, as usual, quite a screen presence and she carries the lightweight script along with Von Sternberg's great visual skill.
6.5/10
Drunken Angel (1948) - the best thing about Kurosawa is that even his more minor films are streets ahead of what most other filmmakers can produce and that is certainly the case here. This one is nowhere near his best work, it has a few narrative problems with distracting subplots and Toshiro Mifune is not as convincing as he would become in his later collaborations with the director, but as a whole, its still quite an excellent movie.
Takeshi Shimura plays an alcoholic small town doctor in post war Japan who starts to treat a young Yakuza (mifune) with TB and realises he wants to cure more than just his physical sickness. What follows is a borderline great look at Shimura's character's success and failings and how he deals with each.
Even in an early work such as this, you can see numerous flashes of the brilliance that would follow, and that combined with Shimura's performance raises it to quite a watchable level.
7-7.5/10
The Banquet (2006) - a very loose adaptation of Hamlet in the wuxia style seen in recent times in Hero, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, House of Flying Daggers and Curse of the Golden Flower. I liked 3 of those and House still had its moments despite being shoddy overall.
This one, unfortunately, is just lame. As far as its source material is concerned, it deviates so far from it that it should not even have called itself an adaptation. Its an overlong, tedious affair with no characters that are anything more than cardboard cutouts and amalgamations of various shakespeare figures (eg Zhang Ziyi plays some sort of strange cross between Gertrude, Lacy Macbeth and Ophelia).
This leaves a capable cast with nothing to do except wear the intricate costumes and parade around the impressive sets. Even the fight choreography is average, some smaller scenes coming off pretty well but the larger more complex ones just being a mess of slow motion wirework.
4.5/10
Suddenly Last Summer (1959) - pretty good adpatation of Tenessee Williams' play by Joseph L Mankiewicz, the material comes across better than in something like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Elizabeth Taylor and Katherine Hepburn put in strong performances and although the whole thing is very stagey, Mankiewicz does enough visually to draw attention away from it.
Quite a strong script plot and dialogue wise, although most of it probably came from the source material.
7-7.5/10
And2 More
#2352 posted by nitin [124.168.54.53] on 2008/06/15 02:28:48
Indiana Jones 4 - it's good. Not as good as 1 and 3, but much better than 2. Shia le Bouf was surprisingly fine but the main reason it works is Harrison Ford. He slips back into character easily and the whole thing's a fun ride with nods and winks to a lot of 50's films, even if it's a little too preposterous compared to the earlier films. The action scenes are mostly first rate.
7/10
Bug (2006) - I'd read this was a return to form for William Friedkin which understandably, and anyone that's seen The French Connection and The Exorcist would agree, had me looking forward to it.
Well it is and it isnt. It is in the sense that his adaptation of the 1996 play about two people feeding off and fueling each other's acute paranoia is suitably tense and foreboding and has very good performances from Ashley Judd and Michael Shannon (reprising his stage role). It isnt in that the source material just doesn’t appear to lend itself to film at all.
Due to the nature of the material, the whole thing heads into a frenzied and hysterical state for its last half an hour and requires a distance between the happenings and the viewer to not appear extremely over the top. This is obviously possible on stage but unfortunately on film the lack of distance between the happenings and the camera/viewer causes unintentional disconnect and believability.
4/10
#2353 posted by nitin [210.84.17.243] on 2008/06/19 11:12:25
Prince of the City (1981) - the last of Sidney Lumet's great films and although it covers similar ground to Serpico, the execution is completely different. The screenplay is a model of how to tell an intricate, complex story containing a lot of information without overloading the audience through ceaseless exposition. It has its flaws, the movie lacks Lumet's usual economy and overstays its welcome at 168 min but it's quite forgivable given the other fine qualities on display.
7.5-8/10
The Barefoot Contessa (1954) - bit of a mess narrative wise, it doesn&#65533;t seem to know whether it&#65533;s a Sunset Boulevarde lite attack on Hollywood or a less fantastical version of the Cinderella story. But Joseph L Mankiewicz writes good dialogue and Bogart and Ava Gardner lap it up in entertaining performances. It's also brilliantly shot by Jack Cardiff.
6/10
Lifeboat (1944) - unfortunately its more a WWII propaganda movie than a Hitchcock film. The premise is based on John Steinbeck's story of a ship sunk by a U-Boat and before you can say 'microcosm of society' a variety of different sorts of survivors gather on a lifeboat (with one of them possibly being the captain of the U-Boat that sank them). Its technically brilliant, Hitchcock makes great use of the limited space, but despite his attempts to breathe life into it, it never once veers of a very predictable path.
5.5/10
Crash (2004) - I had only seen certain (terrible) scenes before but, well, as a whole movie, it's actually not all that bad. In fact, it's probably in the decent category. The problem as usual is with Haggis' script which is way too heavy handed and contrived for the most part. But there's definitely some good bits, mainly due to the uniformly solid acting, that make up for some of the truly awful scenes that go way overboard in attempting to manipulate the viewer.
6.5/10
Suzhou River (2001) - sort of like a homage to Vertigo done in a Wong Kar Wai style. It's definitely interesting with most of the movie shown from the point of view of or narrated by a never shown character who seems to blend a story he read about in the newspapers about the death of a young girl (who sort of looks like his new girlfriend) and what may have actually happened. Solid stuff but I didn’t like the ending which rang a bit hollow and was a bit of a stretch credibility wise too.
6,5/10
Monster (2003) - above average film with an excellent performance from Charlize Theron. The filmmaking is a bit sloppy and amateurish, as is some of the writing, but Theron makes almost every scene work with a very layered and subtle performance that avoids scenery chewing and makes you understand her character to an extent even when you don’t agree with her actions.
6-6.5/10
The Brood (1979) - his most recent work aside, its difficult to properly describe the plot of a David Cronenberg movie without sounding like you're making it up. But in short this one's a bizarre, twisted, sometimes brilliant look at the idea of manifestation of negative emotion (rage/pain) in physical abnormalities.
Certain scenes have not aged well due to their execution being a bit amateurish but others are still quite capable of messing with and sticking in your head. And that’s really what being a horror movie is all about.
7/10
Hotel Rwanda (2004) - this is going to sound harsh because it's a story that definitely deserved to be told and Don Cheadle is great in the main role, but unfortunately this is just a bad film.
Writer/director Terry George has no idea about narrative, pacing or characterisation so the whole things is barely held together by Cheadle's excellent performance and the general power of the story.
4/10
I Just Thought I'd Mention
#2354 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/06/19 11:36:42
that I'm really enjoying this decade's take on things vaguely Western... Deadwood, The Proposition, Carnivale, The Assassination of Jesse James, There Will Be Blood, No Country for Old Men, 310 to Yuma, and there's still a few coming up too. I could never get into old westerns because of the good guy/bad guy cheesiness of it, but historical settings, sinister atmospheres, and R ratings go well together.
Saw Bug a while ago for lack of something better to rent - not that good, but the main actor's paranoia was pretty amusing, with his rants about the CIA and so forth. Like when he brings up the "sound card" thing - I laughed at that.
Tronyn
#2355 posted by nitin [210.84.17.243] on 2008/06/19 11:51:01
an older western that would fit well with those you listed is the The Wild Bunch (my favorite western).
As for more recent stuff, also check out The Three Burials of Melquaides Estrada (2005).
Nitin
#2356 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.19.138] on 2008/06/19 11:51:25
I never saw Hotel Rwanda, because I watched "Sometimes in April" on the Berlinale a few month before Hotel Rwanda came out. April deals with the same topic, but from what I hear it does it in a much better way than Hotel Rwanda did.
It's very intense and saddening. I remember looking around me when the credits were rolling in the Berlinale Palast (huge beautiful cinema where all Berlinale films are premiered) and almost everyone had tears in their eyes. AFAIK some of the african actors lived in Rwanda during the Genocide, so I guess that made their performances so very good.
I suggest you check it out if you are interested in this particular topic. But be warned, this movie stayed with me for a couple of days, and it really affected me.
Sleepy
#2357 posted by nitin [210.84.17.243] on 2008/06/19 11:56:10
yep seen it, which is probably why I was harsher on this. Its pretty heavy going like you say but considering the topic you pretty much know you're not in for anything light from the start. But it's pretty powerful stuff which sticks around in your head for sure.
Hotel goes more for a Schindler's List approach narrative wise, but at the very least Schindler's was a real film using the many options of cinema rather than just telling a story in a very unoriginal, closed and sloppy manner.
I See
#2358 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.19.138] on 2008/06/19 14:57:06
Well, it's a shame considering that April was the better movie that Hotel got so much media attention.
Well It Was In English
#2359 posted by nitin [210.84.17.243] on 2008/06/19 16:59:27
and by Hollywood :)
Its also a shame that such a bad film features one of the best recent performances out of Hollywood.
Hm
#2360 posted by megaman [92.73.80.38] on 2008/06/26 12:14:47
First try, a friend and me and a camera.
http://haukerehfeld.de/misc/film/T... (20 mb)
What's Wrong With MPEGs?!
#2361 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.217] on 2008/06/26 12:22:31
Nice Camera Work
#2362 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.217] on 2008/06/26 12:39:51
but seriously dude, 20Mb for 8 seconds of footage of a dude running down a corridor? You really should have converted that to MPEG before uploading it!
Interesting camera work though! Good action feel to it I guess, or something....
Well
#2363 posted by megaman [92.72.7.81] on 2008/06/26 12:44:18
it's just a test rendering, i figured i wouldn't waste any time on it. and it's already compressed ;)
Glad you like it =D
Megaman
#2364 posted by Spirit [213.39.174.12] on 2008/06/26 15:56:14
Try xvid or AVC/H264. Also deinterlace (if it's meant for computer monitors)!
And for the love of god compress the audio with mp3. ;)
Try H264 (x264) with 2 pass, average bitrate of 1000kbps and joint-stereo abr mp3 ~128kbps. That results in 1/10th the size and on-par quality (you might need to tweak a bit for the colors though).
Dark Night Review
#2365 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.25] on 2008/06/27 19:00:06
http://www.rollingstone.com/review...
Dark Knight Review
#2366 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.25] on 2008/06/27 19:00:23
http://www.rollingstone.com/review...
Bleh!
#2367 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.25] on 2008/06/27 19:03:18
The homonyms will be my downfall.
Dark Knight
#2368 posted by nitin [203.217.76.123] on 2008/06/28 01:35:25
my most anticipated movie of the year, last one was excellent.
Agree
#2369 posted by DaZ [80.41.167.33] on 2008/06/28 06:29:36
Really loving the latest trailer for TDK, Begins was hands down my favourite "super hero" movie made so far and I think they really nailed the Joker character for the sequel.
CANNOT WAIT :)
Seen A Lot Over The Last Week Or So
#2370 posted by nitin [203.217.76.123] on 2008/06/28 08:24:00
The Merchant of Venice (2004) - problematic but reasonably competent version of the shakespeare play. Its not one I've come across before but I believe the movie changes the play's focus from the comedy/love story angle to the much more interesting mini tragedy involving Shylock.
This decision is both good and bad, good because the movie spends less time with the awful and smug Joseph Fiennes and his attempts to win over Lynn Collins' Portia and more time with Al Pacino's Shylock (easily one of pacino's best recent performances), the jewish lender who literally seeks a 'pound of flesh' on forfeit of a bond as revenge for the torment he has had to endure over the years. But its bad because it also means the focus on Shylock leaves all the other characters (except maybe Portia) very underdeveloped and when the action moves away from Shylock's story, the movie bogs down noticeably.
6.5/10
Things We Lost in the Fire (2007) - danish director Susanne Bier's hollywood debut is a decent if unremarkable affair held together by strong acting from Benicio Del Toro and Halle Berry.
Berry plays a wife whose husband suddenly dies in unfortunate circumstances and Del Toro the recovering junkie best friend of the husband. They form a bond after the death and help each other with their grief and problems.
In other hands it could have been a very shonky, cliched and oversentimental movie, but in Bier's hands it never ends up like that even though Allan Loeb's flawed screenplay tries to push it in that direction.
However, in an effort to negate some of the dodgy scripting, Bier does also go a bit overboard with her stylistic touches which end up distracting and she would have been better off relying more on the strength of Del Toro's and Berry's acting to overcome the script problems. Still, overall, it's a fairly solid work that's worth watching.
6.5/10
The Piano (1991) - not great but its not bad either. The direction and writing waver a bit between very good and questionable and it also looks very ugly.
But most the performances are quite first rate and the music is excellent too. The rest of it is quite interesting, I am not so sure the execution was quite there though.
6/10
Sorry Wrong Number (1948) - quite good film noir by Anatole Livtak that's beautifully shot and well performed by Barbara Stanwyck and Burt Lancaster. Not quite as good as other noirs both actors have been in but still excellent stuff.
7-7.5/10
Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961) - I was ready to absolutely hate this but its actually decent if a bit stupid, corny and crude on occasions. It looks great and Henry Mancini's score is perfectly suited but I'm not sure about the rest which wavers in quality.
Audrey Hepburn works overall but still doesn't suit the role, some of the humour works but some of it is terrible, some of the drama works and some of it is just orchestrated by silly plot contrivances. There's a pretty good film in here somewhere, but it gets lost in what was probably a combination of restrictions of the era and sloppy direction from Blake Edwards.
6/10
Howl's Moving Castle (2004) - beautifully animated as usual by Miyazaki, in fact it's probably the best 2d animation I've seen, but once again the actual film just didn’t work for me.
It starts off fine and is reasonably decent for the first hour or so but then the last 40 min seems to have a mind of its own and makes absolutely no sense. I suppose you just have to go with it for it to work but I wasn’t prepared to.
5.5/10
The Player (1992) - quite entertaining but only a fluffy semi-skewering satire about the Hollywood system by Robert Altman. There's far too much winking at the audience for it to be anything more, but it's made well enough to be worth watching, especially if you like movies since there's about a gazillion references to films prior to this.
7/10
2:37 (2006) - decent debut from young aussie murali thalluri, showing plenty of confidence and talent, despite obvious influences from Gus Van Sant's Elephant.
I liked this better than Vant Sant's film though because the characterisations were better and more sympathetic, despite using stock characters and situations. Nothing new here but it's quite well done.
7/10
I Think Bier
#2371 posted by bambuz [91.152.79.40] on 2008/06/29 00:12:49
has that something, at least that Danish dogma movie Elsker Dig for Evigt or sth was good.
There are a million Danish and Swedish flicks handling those themes though, serious family/individual slow drama style.
Maybe Bergman's portraits of a marriage series was the grandmomma of them all on film. And of course there are probably much more books written earlier.
I have a bit mixed approach to that stuff. On one hand I'm cynical and they seem funny since the people end up in such stupid decisions constantly. On the other hand, it's sometimes too much to bear for the fragility of the people and their emotions and vulnerability. And sometimes, rarely though, something unexpected happens and the movie breaks out of the mold.
I've Only Seen One Other Bier Movie
#2372 posted by nitin [203.217.76.123] on 2008/06/29 01:53:23
After the Wedding, which was great.
Have two others though, Open Hearts and Brothers which I'll get around too who knows when.
And there's big influences from Bergman for sure, which is not a bad thing.
The Wilhelm Scream
#2373 posted by DaZ [80.41.167.33] on 2008/06/30 18:06:07
You've all heard it, you can't un-hear it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdb...
I always wondered where this cinematic legend came from :)
DaZ
#2374 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2008/06/30 21:39:03
funny !
#2375 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.246] on 2008/06/30 22:05:03
Drillbit Taylor (2008)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt081753...
So stupid that typing this is a waste.
#2376 posted by mwh [118.93.57.174] on 2008/07/14 05:10:40
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Was fun. Before I saw it, I was told that it was a very reactive film: things just happen, for no reason, and the characters just react to them, which was pretty accurate but also pretty irrelevant to enjoying the ride.
Breach
Interesting spy tale, sent me off to wikipedia to read up on the real events (which, as far as pikiwedia goes at least, seem to be pretty accurately reflected in the film). But dear God, it starts slowly.
Prince Caspian
Eh... I need to read the books again, I think. But this seemed pretty uneven. I kept trying to just see it as a fantasy tale and ignore the religious overtones and failing. Whether this say most about me, the source or the film making, I'm not really sure.
Indy 4 Is Good Fun
#2377 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/14 11:52:35
not as good as 1 and 3, but better than 2 IMHO.
I found Breach above average, but apart from the main acting it was a bit lacking.
#2378 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/17 14:58:02
The Dark Knight - the best film of the year to date by a considerable margin. Starts off a bit messily where its overly chaotic for the first 45 min or so but once it settles down, it's an absolute cracker of a movie. The second half in particular is some of the most thrilling cinema in recent years.
From very early on it establishes that the threats are real and the stakes are high, something which serves it very well during the second half where it feels like anything can happen.
Performances are absolutely first rate (especially Ledger, Eckhart and Oldman) and save a couple of lines of dialogue, its also pretty well written.
8.5/10
Looking Forwards To It Now!!!
#2379 posted by RickyT23 [217.44.37.217] on 2008/07/17 15:12:14
Oh Yeah
#2380 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/17 15:16:46
if you can, definitely watch it in IMAX.
Batman.
#2381 posted by Shambler [92.232.214.79] on 2008/07/17 16:56:41
I thought Batman Begins was the best action hero film ever and one of the best in any action genre, mostly because it portrayed the fantastical subject matter in a gritty, well-thought-out and altogether convincing way, something which is usually and critically lacking in sci-fi / action films.
I'm very much looking forward to TDK.
Shambler
#2382 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/18 00:43:15
it was but TDK is better :)
Batty
#2383 posted by inertia [24.164.67.55] on 2008/07/18 08:17:15
Shambler said: "mostly because it portrayed the fantastical subject matter in a gritty, well-thought-out and altogether convincing way, something which is usually and critically lacking in sci-fi / action films."
Except for the... technology :)
Still
#2384 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/18 08:58:16
compare BB to any other movie of a similar genre (or even previous batman movies), and it's a lot more believable/less retarded.
seeing TDK friday night, cannot wait.
Nolan and Bale rule.
Technology.
#2385 posted by Shambler [92.232.214.79] on 2008/07/18 10:44:49
I seem to remember some of the Batman technology was half-explained / justified in the film?? Something about military tech or something?? That itself seemed unusual, and good, for this style of film.
P.S. Is Wall-E any good?
TDK (no Spoilers)
#2386 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/19 05:48:23
Best movie this year by far, and not likely to lose the spot either. Whereas Burton brought his "style of film" (the 'ironic warped fairlytale' - which over the years I've realized that I really don't like) to Batman, Nolan has finally had the chance to bring his style (complex scripts full of manipulation and double crosses) to it. Nolan's movies are always strong because of the scripts he and his brother write, and this is one of his best. You are always in the middle of something, the good guys (and the audience) can barely keep up (this will demand multiple viewings). A lot is always implied to be going on in the background. Nolan also fixes the problems with action/fight scenes in Batman Begins - the fights and action scenes here are great. Furthermore, he isn't worried about maintaining any kind of comfortable stability - (what you get in, say spiderman - all three movies were predictable because of this). This is a world where anything can, and will, happen.
Ledger's performance is fucking amazing. I hadn't seen anything with him in it before, but this role is brilliant - arguably even more brilliant than Javier Bardem in No Country or Daniel Day-Lewis in There Will Be Blood last year. I actually think he IMPROVED upon the comic-book version of the Joker. He is totally credible as an utterly unrealistic, bizarre, psychotic character (like Bardem), who somehow exists whether you like it or not.
Heh
#2387 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/19 06:11:45
"This is a world where anything can, and will, happen."
pretty much my thoughts from above :
"From very early on it establishes that the threats are real and the stakes are high, something which serves it very well during the second half where it feels like anything can happen."
Ledger's been great before but because it was a 'gay cowboy movie', no one cared :)
It really is a cross between a Batman film and say Michael Mann, particularly Heat.
I thought Eckhart was very very good too.
One Thing Which Also Impressed Me (length Warning)
#2388 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/19 07:28:46
was the use of humor. A film this dark needs some comic relief, and it wasn't just the joker but other characters occasionally who did this. I mean, I love dark, deranged, nihilistic films, and this is by far the darkest "blockbuster" I've ever seen, but it is impressive that they were able to incorporate moments of humour or hope, where were all the more poignant because of their rarity.
Nolan picks good films to be influenced by - Blade Runner on Batman Begins, and now Heat on TDK. The Blade Runner influence on BB wasn't as much as I would have liked - I'd LOVE to see them delve into the neo-futuristic Azrael-Batman storylines or even The Dark Knight Returns, but even so it was cool. Heat's influence can be seen all over TDK, and TDK captures the brilliance of Heat very well. The only thing it doesn't do is capture the mafia's perspective as Heat did. I always thought it would be interesting if an anti-criminal hero movie could be combined with something like The Godfather where the criminals have their own perspective. In TDK, obviously, the Joker has no rules, but there are other criminals who do have rules and even ideals (the guy at the start, for example). Falconi in BB was good, it would be nice to see this angle explored more (although, at 2.5 hours of jam-packed implication-exploration there is no room for anything else).
This movie is probably impossible to top, and so it might be advisable for Nolan to quit while he's ahead. That said, what I'd like to see is Nolan cap off the trilogy with something even better (and continued critical acclaim), and then hand it off to another director with a TOTALLY DIFFERENT vision (perhaps Darren Arofonsky, who was Nolan's main rival in being director of the rebooted Batman series). I'd love to see Bane done properly, but he's nothing without the story elements attached to him. In an uneconomic, perfect world, Nolan would end Part 3 with Bane's victory over batman, and Arofonsky would start a new series with an entirely different style, as Azrael acts as Batman while Wayne recuperates.
Well
#2389 posted by Zwiffle [24.183.101.72] on 2008/07/19 08:33:51
Yeah, I dunno what they can do in the next one. It would almost have to be Poison Ivy as the main villain, I don't know how they could do Mr. Freeze or Penguin. Manbat would be cool, but unbelievable in this setting.
Penguin And Catwoman
#2390 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/19 09:02:39
would be my guess.
tronyn,
there's Heat but there's also the classic noir feel which Nolan's obviously a fan of (Memento and Insomnia both had this too) and which is well suited to this because the Batman comics started out of that same genre really.
As for the trilogy, they all signed on for 3 at the start, and I do think this is one case where some thought has gone into where each film will be generally heading. This doesnt end like BB which signalled a sequel but its not hard to see where the third is going to head into.
Are You Guys Serious?
#2391 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/19 09:13:32
Nolan specifically stated that he will never include penguin (or robin, thank god!) because the character is "too far-fetched." Now, the reimagined, new penguin (an eccentric arms dealer) seems totally appropriate for nolan's universe, but apparently he thinks there is no way to make this character work in his batman universe. He will never include manbat, clayface, or poision ivy - any character that involves superpowers, mutation, or even anything beyond what a normal human COULD DO, I think, he will leave out. No explicit scifi or fantasy will be present in the new series.
In my view the best villain would be Bane (Batman's unholy trinity is Ra's Al Ghul (uber-moral), Joker (anti-moral) and Bane (amoral). I'd love to see someone like Eric Bana play an absolutely ruthless, unsympathetic, Nietzschean power-driven psychopath. If anyone could match Ledger's performance in creating a powerful, unique, anti-Batman perspective, that would be it.
PS Nitin: I agree with the noir feel, Following especially had that... and it is as you say very appropriate.
#2392 posted by Spirit [213.39.156.23] on 2008/07/19 09:31:41
Watched Chinatown yesterday and while I really enjoyed it, the ending completely and utterly ruined it for me.
Chinatown
#2393 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/19 09:42:18
has a great ending! Wouldnt be my second favorite movie without it :)
Hmm
#2394 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2008/07/19 20:26:44
Haven't seen it yet, but as for views on the next villains, I was assuming Riddler/Poison Ivy/Bane/Black Mask.
Given Ivy is apparently out due to 'super powers', my money is on Bane/Riddler (Bane+Black Mask wouldn't work since they're both basically disturbed gang leaders).
Making Bane dumb muscle in the 4th film was one of the greatest crimes in comic book adaptations, and Nolan has shown he knows his Batman with these two films (Ra's and Scarecrow... fsck yeh).
In an uneconomic, perfect world, Nolan would end Part 3 with Bane's victory over batman, and Arofonsky would start a new series with an entirely different style, as Azrael acts as Batman while Wayne recuperates.
Fscking YES. Shame it won't happen. (Although it is a bit too close to the Fall storyline, but would be a brilliant way to please the bat fans)
#2395 posted by Zwiffle [24.183.101.72] on 2008/07/19 23:08:49
Bane/Ridder could work. Scarface *could* work, but I would seriously hope they wouldn't go there, since Scarface is one of the stupidest enemies ever. Who the fuck would ever follow a talking puppet? Catwoman could work, and possibly move into her own spinoff, but I imagine they'd want to stay away from Catwoman after the Halle Berry incidient.
Batman needs more ninjas!
Given Certain Events In The Film
#2396 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/20 03:14:08
I think catwoman is pretty likely.
Just Watched A Film Called
#2397 posted by RickyT23 [90.199.193.191] on 2008/07/20 03:49:28
"untraceable"
really good film. gritty in places but has a good ending. excellent ending infact - truely inspired I thought
Rofl
#2398 posted by megaman [92.73.85.140] on 2008/07/20 22:27:00
i'm watching Underworld, and it's making me really angry at every script writer in hollywood, and the guys accepting and filming those scripts.
Another Rofl
#2399 posted by megaman [92.73.85.140] on 2008/07/20 22:30:05
The goddamnawesome vampires use cheap plastic nokia cells.
Megaman
#2400 posted by Zwiffle [24.183.101.72] on 2008/07/20 22:44:26
Ultraviolet is worse. Much worse.
Megaman
#2401 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/21 00:22:04
there's a sequel too :)
and a prequel coming.
#2402 posted by mwh [118.93.21.68] on 2008/07/21 02:08:19
Hancock
Uh, right. Has some promise, some moments and a lot of disjointed 'meh'.
Michael Clayton
Good. Was probably a little too tired when we watched it to pay the required amount of attention, but clearly a good film. Had slightly more believable corporate nastiness than many other films/books...
I'm sure I watched something else recently, but can't remember what. Obviously not that great :)
Underworld Isn't *That* Bad...
#2403 posted by mwh [118.93.21.68] on 2008/07/21 02:10:24
I mean, it could be Van Helsing!
And clearly TDK is going to own hard. Not out here for a few more days though...
I Loved
#2404 posted by megaman [92.73.86.9] on 2008/07/21 11:01:26
Michael Clayton. Not a really great film, but quite good. All the others complained about the tempo though, and i think i'd agree, the first time watch dragged a bit until you got to the meat of the story.
Michael Clayton
#2405 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/21 11:54:35
is very very good. Theres one big plot hole but apart from that, theres class acting and writing at work.
So I've Seen A Fair Bit Of Stuff Recently
#2406 posted by nitin [203.217.83.247] on 2008/07/21 11:55:36
but I cant be bothered cutting and pasting my comments unless someone's actually interested in reading about (mostly) obscurish stuff??
Hmm
#2407 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2008/07/21 19:48:14
What kind of obscurish stuff?
Give us a list of concept synopsese and we can point out the interesting ones...
The Quiet Earth
#2408 posted by [Kona] [118.92.123.205] on 2008/07/22 05:00:17
Last movie i saw last week was The Quiet Earth, a New Zealand film from 1985. Definitely a hugely underrated film, and an extremely chilling, surreal ending. I'd say alongside Peter Jackson's movies and Once Were Warriors, has to be the best film NZ has put out.
Once Were Warriors
#2409 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/22 11:41:27
I really dig that one, been waiting for a proper dvd for ages. Doubt it will happen though.
nonentity, it would take longer to do synopses than just cut and paste my comments :) Might just do that to bore anyone that actually reads them later.
Nitin
#2410 posted by Vigil [91.152.89.28] on 2008/07/22 22:02:41
I actually read each and every one of your reviews here. They're great, if condensed.
Ohshi-
#2411 posted by Kinn [86.156.155.87] on 2008/07/22 23:45:37
oh shi-
http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/S...
This film is cursed i tells ya, cursed
I'm predicting the next disaster will be pictures found in a tattered briefcase of Michael Caine in some underground lemon party-esque gay old man sex party.
For Vigil Then
#2412 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/23 11:33:38
Easy Living (1937) - screwball 'comedy' with Ray Milland and Jean Arthur that I didnt find all that funny. Part of it is probably because it is written by Preston sturges and his mix of snappy dialogue, eccentric characters and cheap slapstick has never worked for me. Has a few nice lines but not very worthwhile on the whole.
5/10
In Bruges (2008) - so far the second best of movie from this year that I have seen.
Irish playwright Martin Macdonaugh's debut is a deft mix of vicious humour and brutal violence. The dialogue is very sharp and literate and its delivered flawlessly by a surprisingly good Colin Farrell and the always good Brendan Gleeson, playing irish hitmen 'laying low' in Bruges after a job has gone wrong.
Its often hilarious, with most of the humour coming through great characterisation (Ralph Fiennes also has a ball playing a Ben Kingsley Sexy Beast type character). Falters a bit towards the end, but excellent stuff.
7.5/10
Tideland (2006) - Terry Gilliam's complete misfire attempt at an 'alice in wonderland' story. Its tedious, unfocused and weird for the sake of being weird. The central performance is pretty strong but never able to overcome the remaining mess of a film.
3/10
La Bete Humaine (1938) - excellent little movie from Jean Renoir which isnt included in his more celebrated work but which I found more satisfying than at least The Rules of the Game. Its beautifully shot and has such tight control over its narrative that its hard not to be impressed at the consummate skill on display.
Nothing original in the story, which is almost a eurpoean version of Double Indemnity, but it doesn't really matter when its this well made.
7.5/10
Written on the Wind (1956) - fine, if unremarkable, melodrama from Douglas Sirk. It's melodrama through and through but Sirk is obviously an expert in the genre, and while I cant say it made me any more appreciative towards the genre, its still quite an entertaining watch.
6.5/10
The Long Good Friday (1979) - extremely good british gangster film with Bob Hoskins in his best role and getting great support from a range of supporting actors but particularly Helen Mirren. It has a very dated 80's sounding score which occasionally distracts but otherwise its extremely tightly made with hardly any scene out of place and with plentiful dry british humour.
8/10
The Matador (2006) - pretty average odd-couple dramedy with Pierce Brosnan and Greg Kinnear, the former playing a burnt out hitman and the latter a burnt out businessman, whose characters run into each other at a bar and connect. Both of them are pretty good but are let down by banal scripting and direction that lacks any real focus and is also not all that amusing.
Probably being a bit harsh, but given how similar but better In Bruges was, its hard not to compare.
5/10
The Tailor of Panama (2001) - John Boorman's version of John Le Carre's satirical spy novel is a bit of a mess, but an entertaining one. The scripting and directing is a bit sloppy, too focused on characterisation in the first half and too focused on plot in the second half. It results in uneven pacing with everything feeling a bit too compressed once the plot kicks in.
But Pierce Brosnan, as a semi-washed up foreign services officer who is given a posting in Panama so he will not be able to cause any trouble, and Geoffrey Rush, as a Panamian tailor who is reluctantly convinced into spying on his customers, are in top form and some of the dialogue is excellent.
6/10
Be Kind Rewind (2008) - oh dear, is this really the same guy that made ,b>Eternal Sunshine? It's pretty apparent that Michel Gondry at least needs either strong actors or a strong script to keep him in check (his last one would have flown off the rails in a similar fashion to this if Charlotte Gainsborough and Gael Garcia Bernal were not in it).
Jack Black is back to annoying (which is hardly surprising since he is the front and centre of the movie and given free rein) but that's only one of the problems in this unfunny, overlong, self indlugent mess. And I dont know how deliberate it is, but the movie itself is shot in a very sloppy amateurish manner which is very distracting (well it was something that caught my eye since nothing else was).
3/10
Memory Returns
#2413 posted by mwh [118.93.21.68] on 2008/07/23 11:46:28
So I said:
I'm sure I watched something else recently, but can't remember what. Obviously not that great :)
I was wrong, it was No Country For Old Men. Which, as has been mentioned in this thread already, is awesome.
#2414 posted by megaman [92.73.81.182] on 2008/07/23 12:23:22
For Vigil Then
And me.
Tideland
#2415 posted by [Kona] [118.92.123.205] on 2008/07/24 05:19:10
I absolutely loved Tideland. It had it's flaws (such as the retard character), but it was definitely Gilliams fantasy style pulled off well. Jodelle Ferland made the movie though - her acting was great. She made Silent Hill aswell - future star.
Currently watching Barry Lyndon as I type this... what a bore.
See
#2416 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/24 11:27:11
I found Silent Hill tedious too.
But then again, I actually want to see Barry Lyndon at some stage :)
The Rest
#2417 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/24 11:53:06
Remains of the Day (1993) - hadnt seen any of these Merchant/Ivory films before but this is excellent stuff. The direction is pretty well done but its really the central performance by Anthony Hopkins as a butler in a 1930's english manor that makes it what it is.
It's an absolute masterclass of acting, probably Hopkins' best work (which says a lot), laced with subtlety and restraint and getting you right inside his character's head in every scene. The story is also fairly solid and involving.
7.5/10
The Getaway (1972) - there was a time when you could just put Steve McQueen in the middle of an action film and you would have cinematic gold. There was also a time when Sam Peckinpah was peerless in orchestrating action scenes. Luckily, these two times collided at least this once and the result is a first rate character driven action film relying on screen presence and suspense for most its running time and then unleashing visceral action towards the end.
McQueen is as magnetic here as he was in Bullitt and while this is not one of Peckinpah's great films, its still a damn good one.
7.5/10
The Cranes are Flying (1957) - exceptional russian film cantering on the story of Veronika (and Boris) during the call to war in world war II. There is nothing new story wise in the depiction of the cruelty of war but the execution is immaculate, the first half pretty much faultless in establishing the characters and mood. The second is half is not as good, but that’s relatively speaking, and the ending isnt as strong as it should be but on the whole it’s a remarkable film with engaging performances and stunning cinematography.
This is one of the best looking functional examples of cinematography you are going to come across, creating extremely memorable imagery to add and further the story.
8-8.5/10
Jumper - not as bad as its made out to be, but not very good either. It would probably work fine if it was the pilot episode of a tv series but as a standalone film, its focused on the wrong (and uninteresting) characters and does not bother exploring the more interesting supporting ones (like the one Jamie Bell plays).
On a plain popcorn action film level, the action is ok even if its way too overedited but is surprisingly generic and none of it, despite many attempts, reaches the level of something like the starting scene of X-men 2.
5/10
Into the Wild - Christopher McCandless graduates and has the grades "to get into law at harvard". Instead, he decides he wants to "leave the sickness of society" and go into the wild to search for the "truth".
Thankfully, he doesn’t find it (well, not in any direct meaningful way) because that would have been the ultimate insult in what is already quite an insulting film. Apart from some stunning location photography, this is as empty and contains about as much "truth" as your regular dr phil episode.
For a 148 min film, you find out nothing about the main character despite incessant voiceover from him and others. All you get is a continuous depiction of his actions which could have told you something if the movie bothered to focus on the character during moments of action. But that's not what Sean Penn does, his focus is solely on the actions themselves and given the running time, a heavily flawed approach.
4/10
The Virgin Suicides - I am beginning to think Lost in Translation was a bit of a fluke for Sofia Coppola because both her efforts before and after are quite average. This is probably the weakest of the bunch in my opinion, a well shot, semi-surreal Picnic at Hanging Rock type attempt at the lives of 5 teenage sisters in the 70's with overbearing parents whose restrictions lead the girls to their eventual suicides.
Its fairly aimless with no real narrative drive and no real exploration of its one dimensional characters.
5/10
The Children are Watching Us (1944) - another one of Vittorio De Sica's neo-realist efforts, this time about the effect of adultery as viewed through a child's eyes. It's a pretty good effort with interesting characterisations and although it never reaches the heights of The Bicycle Thieves, its still quite a potent work.
7-7.5/10
Five Easy Pieces (1970) - before Jack Nicholson became the thickest slice of ham in the hollywood sandwich he was a great actor, and this has one of his great performances. He plays a former piano prodigy who upon becoming estranged from his artistic family ends up as a middle class nobody on the road to nowhere.
The movie itself is above average, it struggles a bit due to lack of focus and some plodding storytelling but it has well realised characterisations and Nicholson holds it together with a remarkable performance that is a far cry from his usual schtick these days.
6.5-7/10
Nitin:
#2418 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/07/24 21:27:17
Agree on virgin suicides.
Regarding into the wild, i haven't seen the movie but did read the book. The book was a fairly interesting non-fiction retelling of the story from a non-sympathetic viewpoint. The movie (based on the trailers) appeared to tell it as a heroic story, which didn't appeal to me. Perhaps the full movie was more honest than the trailers made it appear, but your review suggests not.
The Mist (spoilers)
#2419 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/25 00:16:19
hmm, worth watching I guess but could have been a lot better. At least Stephen King brings himself to condemn religious craziness in it, as opposed to his usual condescending "folksy" portrayal of repressed American 'rustics'... Stephen King, is one of those people in American culture (like Tim Burton, Jack Nicholson, and Johnny Depp) that after a while I've started to realize, that I really don't like (with M Night Asshole it was immediate). The idea of "The Mist" is blatantly ripped from Lovecraft except not done nearly as well (ooh! another dimension! with a whole different ecosystem of evil life forms!), and the twist ending is cheap. I also hate kids in horror movies (wah! wah! waaah I'm scared I want mommy! wah!) Bah. There just aren't enough good horror movies coming out these days to satisfy what I'm looking for. I guess I'll rewatch The Descent and Altered from last year...
Into the Wild
I also really don't like Sean Penn - I have never liked him. He's a whiny hollywood liberal who looks like a pedophile, with that pedophile hair of his. I don't even know why he's famous. Anyway though, despite the preachy perspective he brings to this movie as a director, I still thought it was pretty good. I also think Pearl Jam is the most overrated band of the 90s (actually I like the musicians, at least Mike McCready in Temple of the Dog and Mad Season, I just hate Eddie Vedder)... it's in a way sadly indicative of the way America is that a guy does what McCandless does, and then 15 years later a rich rock star is singing about it and a rock hollywood asshole is making a film about it... these rich guys haven't worked a day in 20 years if in their lives, much less lived as tramps.
I don't think you could expect the filmmakers to be able to explain what the guy's exact motivations or inner thoughts were since he left only scrawled notes (at least that's how it's shown). The main actor was good, he portrayed someone who was really enthusiastic, idealistic, charismatic, optimistic, etc. Still, I imagine his death was not this nice happy peace with the hippie god, but more along the lines of miserable starvation. Anyway I enjoyed watching it.
Lol
#2420 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/25 00:17:11
RICH hollywood asshole that should have read...
Sean Penn
#2421 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.12.182] on 2008/07/25 00:29:44
"I also really don't like Sean Penn - I have never liked him. He's a whiny hollywood liberal who looks like a pedophile, with that pedophile hair of his."
Uh, what? I would like you to define that pedophile hair for me :-).
"I don't even know why he's famous."
Uh, that may be attributable to the fact that he's a pretty good actor.
Lol
#2422 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/25 01:22:21
I may have overdone the ad hominem on him, but he's always looked creepy to me and I've never seen him in a role that I found anything better than passable.
Appreciate His Work As An Actor
#2423 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.138] on 2008/07/25 02:10:50
But last week, watching Sean Penn introduce Pearl Jam at The Who concert, as he rambled about The Who 'never selling out', it occurred to me, Sean Penn is The Hooker With A Penis.
Despite their grating bombast, I still like Pearl Jam as a band. Can't listen to much off of the first album because it has been played to death on the radio, but Viteology (sp?) still gets a spin in my player every now and then.
Pearl Jam Still Pwns Most Bands Today, I Admit
#2424 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/25 03:10:28
re: penn
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/152422...
a friend with similar opinions sent me this link as an example of what we both hate. sometimes it's just really hard to see past how much hollywood moralizing pisses me off (and yes in this regard penn is a number one offender).
by all means, use a small portion of your often ill-gotten gains (many of these people are even more overpaid than professional athletes) to help yourself sleep better at night by giving to the cause-of-the-week as you strut around enjoying the high life... just shut the fuck up about it.
alright, now I'm done.
Ugh,
#2425 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.138] on 2008/07/25 04:57:06
if you had the time, and we had the beer, I could rant for several hours straight about what is wrong with Oprah, and how she has fucked up every other woman in America through osmosis of her shitty, emotion driven, self absorbed, psycho-babble spouting, ingrate attitude. If I ever settle down again, I'll likely need to find an intelligent Russian émigré who has never heard of America's Queen B Bitch.
On the good news side of the coin, our female students have caught up with their male counter parts in mathematics and science tests. If this trend continues, Oprah could go broke in the next ten odd years given the silly, irrational shit ( http://www.amazon.com/Secret-Rhond... ) she espouses would be embarrassing to an audience with a firm foundation in the sciences.
Nitin
#2426 posted by Shambler [92.232.214.79] on 2008/07/25 10:59:06
Remains of the Day (1993) - hadnt seen any of these Merchant/Ivory films before but this is excellent stuff. The direction is pretty well done but its really the central performance by Anthony Hopkins as a butler in a 1930's english manor that makes it what it is.
It's an absolute masterclass of acting, probably Hopkins' best work (which says a lot), laced with subtlety and restraint and getting you right inside his character's head in every scene. The story is also fairly solid and involving.
</Q>
I agree. One of the few "serious" films I've seen (on a plane flight, no less), and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The amount of repression Hopkins conveys is spot on. I liked the music too.
Fucking Case Fucking Sensitive Fucking Html
#2427 posted by Shambler [92.232.214.79] on 2008/07/25 10:59:36
I bet metl does it deliberately.
Shambler
#2428 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/25 15:24:53
out of interest, what do you normally see?
tronyn,
"is one of those people in American culture (like Tim Burton, Jack Nicholson, and Johnny Depp) that after a while I've started to realize, that I really don't like ("
Johnny Depp? seriously? what dont you like about him? Apart from Bale, I find him one of the most intersting actors around.
"I don't even know why he's famous"
Err, have you seen either of Carlito's Way or Mystic River, the guy may be an idiot in real life (or appears to be), but he can act.
"a guy does what McCandless does...he portrayed someone who was really enthusiastic, idealistic, charismatic, optimistic, etc."
Not to add naive, stupid and downright arrogant. This ties into metl's question, the main reason for me not liking this was because the guy came across as a pretentious rich twat who loathed what he had precisely because he had it, and the movie turned him into some sort of tragic hero for doing so.
"I don't think you could expect the filmmakers to be able to explain what the guy's exact motivations or inner thoughts were since he left only scrawled notes"
No, but they could have tried. In fact, the few explanations they do offer are from psychology 101 (he had bad parents etc). Its no coincidence that, in the movie at least, everyone he meets in the 'real world' is an arsehole and everyone he meets on his road trip is nice and friendly.
Me?
#2429 posted by Shambler [92.232.214.79] on 2008/07/25 15:48:17
out of interest, what do you normally see?
Not much....I don't watch many films. Non-cheesy sci-fi action with occasional quirky things?
Nitin
#2430 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/25 16:41:31
yeah seriously Johnny Depp. I'm scratching my head trying to think of something I found him interesting in.. and coming up short.
As far as interesting up/coming actors, I'd say Bale, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Eric Bana if he could ever get into a GOOD MOVIE again.
Seen Carlito's Way, really liked it, and as far as I can tell it relied on Pacino (and also leguizamo or however you spell his name, his role was important). Penn's character was an irresponsible asshole, but I've seen the same type played way better (Edward Norton in rounders. Actually add him to my list of interesting actors too, though again he doesn't seem to have been getting into really good movies lately).
Into the Wild
yeah the character was totally naive... I think one has to view what people like that do, as totally amoral. There's certainly no basis for viewing it as righteous - I mean society is sometimes evil yes, but nothing will change by running away from it. And yeah you're right they totally romanticized everyone he met on the road, except the asshole railroad guard (protecting capitalism!). Oh, hollywood - the richest bunch of jackasses in human history, obsessed with looks, status, fashion, and wealth, and yet they sit around condemning those very things and idolizing people on the fringes of society - from their mansions.
Yeah
#2431 posted by megaman [77.135.167.250] on 2008/07/25 19:47:07
Edward Norton movie selection bothers me, too :(
Dark Knight
#2432 posted by Jago [88.195.214.20] on 2008/07/26 01:16:02
Watched it today. While the movie (although good) in it's entirety wasn't the 2nd coming the media painted it to be, Ledger's Joker is everything the hype says and then some. He absolutely steals every single scene he is on, almost to the point of turning it into a movie about Joker and his arch-nemesis Batman.
Watch in cinema.
Hell Yeah
#2433 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/26 02:22:04
although I wish they'd been able to make it even darker (R rating - it would have been good if he actually cut the smiles into others' faces). But then, basically everything I like, I feel like it could be improved by making it more dark, nihilistic, disturbing, etc. But as is Ledger's Joker is up there with Chigurh and Lecter for me.
The Mist
#2434 posted by rj [82.4.228.100] on 2008/07/26 21:24:43
worth watching I guess but could have been a lot better
...
There just aren't enough good horror movies coming out these days to satisfy what I'm looking for
those were my initial two thoughts after watching. it had potential but was handled all wrong; less emphasis should have been put on the monsters since the whole 'horror' aspect lay more with the religious mob culture it portrayed. seeing monsters rip people into a bloody mess isn't scary. seeing people becoming religiously delusional to the point of sacrificing each other, however, is pretty fucking dark. it's a shame it was portrayed as more of a by-story without a great deal of thought or detail. add to that the general standard of acting / character stupidity being on par with your average cheap horror flick and it left alot to be desired. although i thought the 'twist' (if you can call it that) was actually pretty unconventional and effective
i'm sure there has to be a market out there for DECENT horror movies.. why aren't there more of them?
I Liked It
#2435 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/27 02:36:08
has faults for sure, but better than most 'horror' that comes out these days.
Also I dont know which version you guys saw, but the B&W version that's on the dvd is tons better in terms of atmosphere and claustrophobia.
And
#2436 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/27 02:37:15
since the director couldnt even get the studios to agree showing the movie theatrically the way he wanted (ie in B&W), its hardly surprising that it wasnt more darker etc.
Well
#2437 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/07/27 17:19:57
one thing which was really, really awesome about it was the line "Tentacles - Yeah."
#2438 posted by metlslime [98.210.181.179] on 2008/07/27 20:08:03
The Dark Knight
Finally saw this. A great action movie, a great superhero movie, and a great crime thriller. The previous Nolan/Bale movie was good, but this is a step up even from that, in terms of characters, writing, the maturity of the vision of Gotham City, and in terms of themes.
It does fall back into normal action movie territory at times, but at 2 and a half hours, it can't all be brilliant.
Elizabeth: The Golden Age
It's been ten years since I saw the first one, so my memory of the original might be gilded by age (pun intended) but it just seems like the first movie was a serious political movie with a meaningful personal angle, while this was more of a historical soap opera, with a mundane love triangle and little historical or character insight.
Coming Attactions:
Death Race: appears to be a direct ripoff of Running Man, but with muscle cars.
Quarantine: looks like the spanish zombie thriller Rec is being released in the US this fall but with a more marketable name. Worth seeing, I reviewed it upthread.
#2439 posted by metlslime [98.210.181.179] on 2008/07/28 09:01:38
Juno
I was suprised by the genuineness of this, was expecting another throwaway "quirky" comedy. Once you get past the first fifteen minutes or so, Juno breaks free of its indie hipness to tell an actual story, with actual feeling.
Metl
#2440 posted by nitin [124.168.76.134] on 2008/07/28 13:45:16
agree with juno, the first 10-15 min had me bothered but it actually has heart and likeable characters.
as for elizabeth, I didnt like 1 or 2, for different reasons. But I thought both were quite poor.
Wall-E
#2441 posted by Shambler [77.97.138.124] on 2008/07/28 23:30:55
Just saw this. Very good, does exactly what it says on the tin, one of the classics of modern "for kids AND adults" animations*. The aspects and scenes that were particular to this film and it's theme were good all-round, the more derivative cartoon moments were weaker.
* on the subject of animations, the "earth / robot" so-called CGI was so good I don't believe it was CGI, I reckon they did the whole thing with models and stuff...!
One Of My Freinds
#2442 posted by RickyT23 [90.199.193.191] on 2008/07/29 00:38:01
swears to me that his daughter was absolutely hysterically distraught after seeing this. He said that he thought she had spilled the kettle on herself or something she was crying that much.
Doesnt it die at the end?
Hmm
#2443 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2008/07/29 14:20:23
Nah, humans return to earth and everything is ok yay!
It was my one issue with the film, the ending is all happy/clappy. But then I suppose it is a kid's film. The rest of the film is amazering
Grindy.
#2444 posted by Shambler [77.97.138.124] on 2008/07/29 14:33:51
Agree about the ending, not as strongly themed as the rest of the film. Although the credits were pretty cool.
The leading lady is well hot!
Saddest Ending Of A Movie
#2445 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.150] on 2008/07/29 17:09:45
//SPoiLER//
I have ever seen. The humans come back to live a life of Luddite like subsistence farming? Besides, the entire movie is a bourgeoisie attack on the proletariat. propaganda to deny the working man the fruit of his labors.
Hmm
#2446 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2008/07/29 19:07:34
Not really my type, looks too much like an iPod.
The abhorence that was Marvin in the H2G2 movie might go for her though.
Dark Knight
#2447 posted by Shambler [77.97.138.124] on 2008/08/08 10:25:39
What everyone else said. Brilliant. Hurrah.
Yes. Especially Ledger.
#2448 posted by mwh [118.93.64.99] on 2008/08/09 08:15:28
It was a bit long though, with a disappointing amount of video game action and had some things that could have just been dropped (like the sonar stuff! wtf!).
But the Joker will stay with me for a long time.
Warning: Ignore If You're Not A Batman Fanboy
#2449 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/08/09 12:21:34
I'm clearly the hugest batman fanboy on these forums, aand, I admit it was too long, aand, I think the finale was disappointingly conventional (same as Batman Begins, although the ferry sequence was unusually interesting) but... what do you mean "video game action"?
I felt that the action for the most part was believable and meant something aside from just explosions, no one was flying through the sky doing slo-mo moves (ala, Batman Forever, Spiderman, etc).
I actually loved the Hong Kong sequence. If I was a major criminal, I'd be worried about being hunted down like that. What an FU to Lau, and what a warning to anyone who tries to help the mafia. Awesome too how Dent feigns ignorance.
I'm surprised they didn't explore the angle of someone alleging (reasonably enough it seems to me) that the existence of such a character (batman), in apparent cooperation with the government, is a secret government project testing out the public's reaction to "extra-legal" law enforcement (and eventually fascism, blah blah etc). Surely if a guy like Batman existed, all kinds of conspiracy nuts would argue that some level of government was in on it.
Well The Action Scenes
#2450 posted by nitin [124.168.12.132] on 2008/08/09 12:44:57
barring the car chase were still edited far too quickly, but that's more of a hollywood trend than anything else. Better than Begins but still nothing that great.
Edited Action Scenes
#2451 posted by Shambler [77.97.138.124] on 2008/08/09 15:24:37
Not as bad as I expected - I expected more prolonged fights with super-quick choppy "can't see WTF is going on and looks really really shit" editing that is so trendy amongst people who try to make films worse these days.
But it was instead more like that each fight was over very quick (i.e. it was not just the editing style but rather the fight speed), a couple of sharp blows and onto the next bad guy - and to me this seemed in keeping with Batman's style, dealing with enemies very quickly by killing/disabling blows rather than getting involved in a prolonged fight.
I thought the Hong Kong sequence was great, great filming of the city too.
Hm
#2452 posted by mwh [118.93.64.99] on 2008/08/10 03:45:11
So, on thinking about it a bit more, the only action scene that bothered me was the one where the Joker was trying to get Dent as he was being transported around. How long was that underpass? I yawned.
I liked the Hong Kong excursion and parts of the ending.
I guess I'm just surprised and disappointed by the lack of focus in such an otherwise incredibly competent film. It seemed almost like the makers lacked the ... courage? not really sure of the word ... to leave some of the things they'd worked on on the cutting room floor. It's annoying, not because the film was bad, but rather because it was so close to being great.
In other news, I watched Run, Fat Boy, Run last night. Dear me, it sucked.
I Just Watched It At A Cinema
#2453 posted by RickyT23 [90.199.193.191] on 2008/08/10 04:52:04
(2nd time I saw it, I figure I would go with my freinds and see it at the big screen cause the 1st version was a bit shit....)
I like it.
OK, ok.
Heath ledger reminded me of Nicholson a couple of times.
Which was a good thing.
Bale was bale. I liked the "dirty batman voice"
Dent was cool. Good CGI. Made up for the plentyfull bad (or obvious) CGI. The BatCycle was ace.
But the thing about it which shined the most was the turbulent and depthfull STORYLINE. Character development! Good stuff. More of this please Hollywood. And without the martyrd actors pls. Too OTT. And horribly tragic.
Heath Ledger RIP.
Just Saw It Tonight
#2454 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.141] on 2008/08/10 09:57:32
Heath ledger reminded me of Nicholson a couple of times.
Same for me, but Ledger did something far more clever than an impersonation of Nicholson as the Joker. The cadence and accented twang he used was from Nicholson's character in One Who Flew Over The Cookoo's Nest instead of his character from the Burton flop.
I Had The
#2455 posted by Text_Fish [82.32.29.116] on 2008/08/10 23:35:16
beginnings of tonsillitis when I saw this film so Ledger really haunted my feverish dreams afterward. Really menacing turn.
I thought the film was let down by the uncharacteristically OTT sonar goggles and Harvey Dent's injuries, which would have just been so much more terrifying if they looked realistic. Seriously, his eyeball would have been way more fucked up than that. The burnt side of his face should just have been dead.
Other than those two small gripes, thumbs up all round.
Seen Quite A Few
#2456 posted by nitin [124.168.0.138] on 2008/08/16 07:02:16
Winchester 73 (1950) - I'd read a lot about the Anthony Mann/James Stewart westerns but had not got around to any of them till now. This is probably the most well known one and it's a cracker of a film, superbly paced and written and the direction is faultless. The only negative is a very uncomfortably drawn female character which comes across as an afterthought in an otherwise great movie.
7.5-8/10
The Goddess of 1967 (2000) - an interesting if ultimately flawed aussie film about a japanese man (rikiyo kurokawa) who travels to Australia to buy The Goddess of 1967, a 60's citroen DS, and ends up on a road trip with a mysterious blind girl (rose byrne).
The performances are engaging, Dion Beebes' cinematography is exceptional, and director Clara Law shows occasional flashes of brilliance during certain scenes. On the whole though, it's far too obsessed with referencing the french new wave films of godard, melville, truffaut and co and ends up being too long and too muddled.
5/10
Brothers (2004) - another find film from Susanne Bier, this time a drama about the lives of a UN solider believed to be dead after a helicopter crash in the Middle East, his wife back home in Denmark and his just out of prison brother who is living with his wife and children. Once again Bier turns what should be a contrived, manipulative story into anything but that with skilful avoidance of cliches, absorbing characters, strong performances and deft use of humour.
American remake currently being made by jim sheridan with natalie portman, jake gylenhaal and tobey maguire.
7-7.5/10
<b.The Counterfeiters (2006) - last year's best foreign film winner is equally as good as the german film that won the previous year's award, The Lives of Others.
Karl Mankovics, in a remarkable central performance, plays conflicted nazi prisoner Sally, "the most famous countefeiter in the world" who strikes a deal to be spared and receive better treatment for himself and some others in exchange for making copies of the pound and US dollar for german use.
The film is excellent in showing both sides of the coin of this situation (bad joke unintentional) and although it doesn't reach any great heights at any stage, its tightly made and very very interesting.
7.5-8/10
On a side note, I cant believe this story is true, the germans were totally crazy.
All That Heaven Allows (1955) - the movie that Far From Heaven is meant to be a homage to and you can definitely see the inspiration. Like Todd Haynes' film, this one has a really strong central performance from Jane Wyman that anchors the whole thing as the melodrama plays out around her in opulent technicolor.
Solid, well made stuff with direction by Douglas Sirk that is better than the material.
7/10
Ballad of a Soldier (1959) - simplistic but very effective russian film set during the war. 19 yr old Alyosha barters away a medal for some time away from the front to visit his mother in his village.
Essentially a road trip film, which follows the usual structure of the naive young man learning about life, but the characters and performances are engaging and the scripting very intelligent.
Impressive stuff.
7.5-8/10
Rumble Fish (1983) - In his own words, 'an arty movie for teens' by Francis Ford Coppola. It's a fry cry from his four 70's masterpieces but its also a far cry from the series of duds he's more recently responsible for.
Its an adaptation of S.E Hinton's short novel about James Dean style rebellious teens withering away in a small pretty much dead town. Definitely style over substance, but its glorious style and Matt Dillon as the dumb younger brother idolising his older bother and Mickey Rourke as the older brother trying to shed his mythic gang image make for sympathetic characters.
6.5/10
And Some More
#2457 posted by nitin [124.168.0.138] on 2008/08/16 07:05:55
Advise and Consent (1962) - another fine movie from the great Otto Preminger, a political drama based around the nomination by the US president of a controversial new secretary of state. A somewhat predictable narrative follows involving dissenting senators, personal conflict and hidden secrets but its made more interesting with the shadow of McCarthyism hanging over the story.
It’s a bit too talky, actually probably far too talky for most, and also overlong at 138 min, but the cast including Charles Laughton and Henry Fonda is first rate and some of the dialogue, fantastic.
7.5/10
Dead Man's Shoes (2004) - rewatch, had forgotten how hilarious it was despite the main story.
Mentally impaired Anthony is subjected to humiliation and abuse by certain locals in his British Midlands town and eventually his older brother Richard, an ex-army soldier, returns to the town to punish those responsible.
Despite the straightforward narrative, Meadows avoids revelling in gratituous on-screen violence and instead works in a surprising amount of hilarious black comedy into the material before also managing to embue the last 20 min or so with genuine pathos. Helping him is an excellent performance from Paddy Considine as Richard, who manages to walk that careful tightrope of unpredictability very well.
7.5/10
Jekyll - BBC tv show/mini series that is a modern update of the famous story with numerous additions/twists to the source material, some good, and some eye rolling bad. When it works, itâ€™s a deft mix of gothic horror and black humour and when it doesnt, its distractingly bad.
On the whole though, its fairly entertaining with some nice unexpected characterisations and story arcs and a solid performance from James Nesbitt in the main role.
6.5/10
Dogville (2004) - well, it's definitely different. I guess the biggest compliment I can pay its minimal Brechtian style (the whole film is done on a stage without any sets etc) is that you donâ€™t really notice it after 10-15 min, which means its obviously successful in getting the viewer involved through the story and performances.
Length is definitely an issue, it overstays its welcome at 173 min, and some of the message preaching is a bit hypocritical but for the most part, the cast, characters, themes and plotting are very engaging and interesting.
7-7.5/10
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) - apart from impressive performances from Johnny Depp and Benicio Del Toro, I found this to be fairly laborious, unfunny and repetitive tedium.
There are a couple of funny scenes but there are many more that are not.
4.5/10
High Noon (1952) - fairly impressive old school western that through its script, cinematography and direction manages to build up a fair amount of characterisation and tension, only to be let down by a bit of an anticlimactic ending and some rather mixed attempts at messages.
Still, it looks great and is paced beautifully.
7.5/10
Open Hearts (2002) - the first collaboration between Susanne Bier and Mads Mikkelsen and while it's not as great as After the Wedding, its still another fine intense drama with excellent performances and non-cliched scripting, albeit in the context of a manipulative, contrived story. Mikkelsen plays a doctor who forges a relationship with the girlfriend of a man who was run over by his wife, leading to complications for all involved. Bier employs a dogme style to cover the events, something which she has employed less and less in her more recent efforts, but it suits the material and is not overly distracting as other films in this style.
Hollywood remake by Zach Braff coming (I think almost all her movies are being remade).
7-7.5/10
Hmmmm.....
#2458 posted by RickyT23 [90.217.64.245] on 2008/08/16 16:21:20
I havent seen all of the above but:
Dead Mans Shoes
I really liked this. Quite shocking really, but also a good anti-drugs film. Really makes you think about why not to become a druggie. Also why not to join the army and become 'capable' of such controlled anarchy.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
I LOVED this film. It's probably my favourite film. It is hilarious right from the start to the end. My favourite scene is the montage which brings you up to speed at the start - the road trip into Las Vegas, there Toby Maguire hitchhikes a ride with the two 'deprivates'. The part where you can see Depp muttering to himself, with a different voiceover, then the lips and narrative synchronise on the line "did I say that, or just think it?". I have never seen such an accurate portayal of the feeling of being in such a state.
This feeling of the films realism is mantained throughout the film. It is obvious that the story and characters are based on real-life experiences, rather that artistically licensed imagination.
I find myself enjoying this film for every scene. I also love the part with the car chase in the desert and the "unhinged" police officer (Trinca).
It is true, the film lacks direction, chaos insues well and truely towards the films "conclusion". Depp waking up in a hotel room which has been trashed. I have never seen such a mess before in all my life. He is wearing flippers, a six-foor rubber crocodile's tail (strapped to his arse) whilst lieing in an inflatable paddling pool with a tape recorded strapped to his chest. The moral is that if you do that stuff it WILL change you.
High Noon
#2459 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.43] on 2008/08/16 18:34:54
Really didn't care for the preachiness of this film that conflated two 'messages'. Hell, one motif was better done and more understated in the recent Rambo flick (Christian Passivism being an unrealistic approach).
What stays with me in this film is the opening scene with the stark plains and the beautiful Tex Ritter ballade 'Don't Forsake Me, Oh My Darlin''. It exuded a perfect state of morose that was not easily matched in the live action and dialog scenes.
Btw, There Is A Parody
#2460 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.69] on 2008/08/16 18:51:41
Of High Noon written as a science fiction novella in the 1950's by Jack Vance titled 'The Moon Moth'. It is from an anarchist disposition. A marshal (another term is used, but pretty much the same thing) is assigned to a planet where the society is composed of individualist. He receives a death threat from a gang who is coming to settle a score. When he asks the natives for help, no one he asks even pretend to give a fuck whether he lives or dies and he is told that he put himself in the situation by accepting the official position in the first place, and it is no one's problem but his. In High Noon everyone comes up with excuses, but not here! Quite refreshing.
High Noon
#2461 posted by nitin [124.168.0.138] on 2008/08/17 02:14:28
headthump, agree on the 'messages', but I still quite liked it.
#2462 posted by nitin [124.168.0.138] on 2008/08/17 02:22:09
The Last Wave (1977) - For those that found the unresolved, ambiguous nature of Peter Weir's Picnic at Hanging Rock to be frustrating, his followup film is likely to elicit the same response. But if, like me, you thought that aspect worked in the favour of that film, especially when combined with the mysterious and foreboding atmosphere that was prevalent throughout, you will find much to like here even though it's not quite on the same level of quality as PAHR.
The movie has three interconnected stories: Australia is experiencing strange weather with numerous hail/rainstorms, a Sydney lawyer is having strange dreams, and a group of Aboriginal men kill one of their own in a bar. By the end, the stories are linked, but not in any cohesive fashion, Weir choosing to raise new (and interesting) questions with his 'answers'. But, as mentioned above, I found that this approach added to the film given how much it relies on mysticism. What doesn’t quite work, though, are some of the subplots which seem to be last minute additions to add some dramatic weight but end up detracting from the interest of the main story and spectacularly strange and haunting imagery.
7/10
Red Road (2006) - impressive little psychological drama/thriller from Scotland that can be a bit slow at times but is otherwise very engaging and effective. The main character, Jackie, works as a security camera operator in Glasgow and from the lengthy opening sequence, you can tell she lives her life vicariously through those she observes. But when she sees someone from her past, it sets off an unnerving series of events dealing with obsession, memory and guilt.
The performances are strong across the board, the direction appropriately intimate and claustrophobic and although the ending is a little bit too pat (despite working reasonably well), the leadup is an unpredictable and confronting look at someone's internal hell.
7/10
I Live in Fear (1955) - Akira Kurosawa's most direct look at the effect of WWII on Japan with Toshiro Mifune playing an elderly man whose family is trying to have him declared insane for wasting the family savings on over the top plans to combat the effect of radiation fallout. But unlike Kurosawa's other films like The Bad Sleep Well and Stray Dog which look at post war japan indirectly but more effectively, this one ends up working more on the level of a dissection of family politics than as a commentary on post war Japan (even though it raises some interesting questions). Not that that's a bad thing in itself, Kurosawa's mastery is still present for the majority of the film and Mifune's strong presence dominates every frame he's in.
7/10
The Bridges of Madison County (1995) - overlong, but an otherwise excellent and low key drama from Clint Eastwood that, despite being very susceptible to it, manages to avoid the oversentimentality that's present in most of his recent films. Eastwood obviously recognised what he was onto, and that is Meryl Streep at the peak of her powers, and he wisely chooses to focus everything on her. Of course, he manages to himself play off Streep pretty well too, forming the interesting central relationship that is very important to the movie's success.
7.5/10
The Magician (1958) - probably one of Ingmar Bergman's most accessible movies that avoids his usual themes of god, religion and suffering. Instead we get a period piece that follows a famous travelling magician, Albert Vogler (Max Von Sydow), and the subsequent encounter between his troupe and the town authorities, including Dr Vergerus the physician, over the claimed legitimacy of their acts. The themes, therefore, shift towards science vs spirituality but Bergman adds in further intriguing complexity by making both Vogler and Vergerus very aware of the likely inaccuracy of each of the their own stances.
The result is a masterfully shot film with abrupt changes of genre that still seem to gel well together. Max Von Sydow again puts in a very commanding performance, which is especially noteworthy given that his character plays a mute in the film. The ending is not quite what I was expecting but otherwise its pretty impressive stuff.
7.5/10
Mad Max - here's some heresy, I thought that was atrociously bad. No idea how or why this put aussie film on the map, especially when Peter Weir was making genuinely great films at the same time.
3/10
Mad Max 2 - on the other hand, this should make 'best sequel' lists simply for being so much better than the first film. I'd bet the budget wasnt significantly bigger than last time but it's used a hell of a lot better, the vision of an apocalyptic future being more precise and realised.
Its also suitably exhilarating and restrained at appropriate times, but most importantly has neat characterisations that the first film seriously lacked.
7-7.5/10
HT
#2463 posted by bambuz [91.152.66.83] on 2008/08/18 23:51:17
Oh, I didn't think of that angle in the Moon Moth. Rather thought about the clumsiness and lack of skill and knowledge of local extremely weird ways hindering the marshall from doing his job.
Being a criticism of many things of course. I guess when an organization or society grows, there are more and more people and processes put to only paying attention to the functioning of some small parts of it, lacking understanding of the greater goals.
It is a hard problem.
What Happens In Vegas (2008)
#2464 posted by Spirit [213.39.223.140] on 2008/08/24 00:23:11
Poor in every aspect... I watched it mainly because I like Ashton Kutcher, he was good but everything else was crap. The imdb comments is right except for the other girl being a completely fugly annoying slut:
Ashton Kutcher plays the usual role, Cameron Diaz looks good and acts bad as always, Rob Corddry is hilarious in a secondary role as Kutcher's bumbling lawyer friend and the very attractive Lake Bell provides some more wit as Diaz best friend.
#2465 posted by nitin [210.84.31.98] on 2008/08/24 08:12:57
Billy Liar (1963) - british comedy/drama that works quite well. Tom Courtenay is excellent as Billy, a working class 19 yr old living with his family who is bored with his life and indulges in Walter Mitty type fantasies which also lead him to become a compulsive liar.
John Schlesinger has a great time with the fantasy sequences but its his skill in combining the comedy and drama that really makes the movie tick. The droll script is reasonably humorous with some great supporting characters and one liners.
7-7.5/10
The Red Balloon (1956) - Life in 34 min? Quite possibly the greatest short film of all (although Chris Marker's La Jetee also has a valid claim), Albert Lamorisse's allegorical tale of a young boy and the red balloon that follows him around Paris is a brilliant little film that is funny, touching and successfully manages to tackle some themes feature length films struggle to address.
Its almost a silent film, with very little dialogue, relying on the sheer force of its hypnotic imagery and Lamorisse's creative imagination.
8-8.5/10
Charlie Wilson's War (2007) - decent but surprisingly underwritten film which is really not satirical enough or serious enough to really work properly. Most of the fault lies in Aaron Sorkin's screenplay which supplies plenty of clever one liners but has almost zero characterisation and scratches the surface of some interesting issues without really going into them.
But its all entertaining enough thanks to some carefully toned performances from particularly Phillip Seymour Hoffman but also Tom Hanks and pacy direction from Mike Nichols.
6.5/10
Weeds Season 3 - its always been less clever than it thinks it is, but this season the writers completely dropped the ball. Someone seems to have made the decision that the best way to make the show funny is to simply increase the swearing and add more nudity. Someone also seems to have decided that the best way to add depth to the characters is to make them all total assholes this season.
Still above average because despite all the faults, the writing and acting are (just) above what you normally get on regular tv.
5.5-6/10
The World's Fastest Indian (2006) - Anthony Hopkins hasn’t been this entertaining since Silence of the Lambs or this good since Remains of the Day. It probably helps that he has a great character to play, NZ born Bert Munro who is single minded in his pursuit, and ultimate achievement, of breaking the land speed record on his old motorbike.
The movie's slightly overlong, 2 hrs plus being a bit much for Bert's roadtrip from NZ to the Bonneville salt flats in the US, but Hopkins' performance and some spot on direction from Roger Donaldson during the race sequences make it pretty engaging.
7-7.5/10
The Bank Job (2008) - decent, workmanlike heist thriller that never reaches any great heights, but is reasonably entertaining due to the 'based on reality' plot (not sure how many liberties were taken with it but its interesting nonetheless).
It suffers a fair bit from being just all plot and not having any focus on any real characterisation. Overall though, a competently made film that's worth a watch.
6.5/10
Daisy Kenyon (1946) - beautifully scripted, well performed and brilliantly directed melodrama from Otto Preminger. Henry Fonda, Joan Crawford and Dana Andrews all hold their own in reasonably complex characterisations in this very enjoyable love triangle story dressed up with film noir photography by Preminger.
It's a stroke of genius really, Preminger doing as much with the expressionistic use of light and shadow as the scripting in establishing interesting and multi dimensional characters. Falters a bit towards the end, but otherwise excellent stuff.
7-7.5/10
The Set Up (1949) - decent film noir from Robert Wise with Robert Ryan again excellent in playing a tortured character. Ryan plays Stoker Thompson, an over the hill boxer who causes things to go awry when he inadvertently wins against a much younger opponent. Great setting of mood and the first half is also particularly good at establishing some neat characterisations. Unfortunately, the second half is fairly predictable and not as strong in the script department despite Wise and Ryan's efforts.
I read somewhere that Sidney Lumet is planning a remake, would be very interested in seeing it.
6.5/10
And Two More
#2466 posted by nitin [210.84.31.98] on 2008/08/24 08:14:35
Love Street (2003) - above average french romantic fantasy by Patrice Leconte which is also short on characterisation but features some brilliant camerawork and also supermodel Laetitia Casta who you can stare at pretty much all day :)
Casta plays a 1940's french prostitute who is, you guessed it, looking for real love and doesn’t quite find it when she thinks she has because it was her best friend all along blah blah blah. Plot and character arent really the important thing here with Leconte going overboard with his production design and cinematography to create a world you are totally sucked into (but which unlike say Moulin Rouge isnt annoyingly in your face).
A better film should have been made to serve the visual side of things but I'd rather take this over most blandly shot movies any day.
6/10
Burn Notice Season 1 - decent, disposable entertainment that benefits from some droll humour and good performances. The show is about a 'burned' spy who has to resort to local PI jobs in Miami to get by, while still trying to find out the reason for being 'burned' in the first place. He gets some help from his ex-girlfriend who used to be an IRA member and another washed up spy who still has contacts.
Most the scripting is adequate enough without ever being anything great, but the main actors do pretty well with the material they have. It never has any real substance to be anything noteworthy but it is very watchable (although I don’t know how long you could really drag out the concept).
Also, most people probably wont be bothered by it, but I found the camerawork to be extremely haphazard and distracting.
6.5/10
ELA, Young Warrior Princess...
#2467 posted by metlslime [98.210.181.179] on 2008/08/31 10:51:58
It's like Heavy Metal meets Tron meets Masters of the Universe. Pure retro 80's goodness.
http://www.vimeo.com/1456640
Oh, And They Even Have A Movie Poster For It:
#2468 posted by metlslime [98.210.181.179] on 2008/08/31 10:52:51
http://www.peppermelon.tv/projects...
Oh Nice
#2469 posted by negke [82.82.168.189] on 2008/08/31 18:57:17
Dark Knight
#2470 posted by megaman [92.73.85.210] on 2008/09/01 23:51:26
hm. Mixed bag. Really not the 9.2 kiddies give it at imdb :)
I loved the joker, the acting, the costumes, the way it was staged (?)/ directed.
The camera/looks style of the movie was good, but it had a few points that broke it. It didn't REALLY came off as something that follows a real concept though, too much generic action movie stuff in between. (shiny skyscrapers, please...)
Story was meh; only served to provide interconnections between action sequences. I (and i wasn't the only from of my group) was bored during most of the slower non-joker parts, because there wasn't really anything in the plot that was interesting to follow. You either cared for the guys in danger or you didn't, and i mostly didn't (only for the joker of course!).
Fights: hm, maybe i don't get it, but batman martial art always looks so stupid :)
There were some weird cuts. especially the 'WOW BATMAN GONE WHEN I CUT AND CUTBACK AND BACK AGAIN' ones; i srsly hope those were references to earlier movies.
I'd probably rate it a 5/10 or so, with the best action movie ever at 7 or 8.
Oh And
#2471 posted by megaman [92.73.85.210] on 2008/09/01 23:55:46
they never explained anything about how somebody would find out where or when to go or how to get inside a guarded building. That's why they couldn't really have any better stuff in the plot than 'next action sequence'. The only time they tried, all they got was that hilarious 'cell sonar' stuff.
Lazy dumbass scriptwriters.
TDK
#2472 posted by biff_debris. [66.191.244.17] on 2008/09/02 01:17:39
Loved it, loved it. Loved it. Probably the best Batman ever, in my prejudiced opinion. You can rank me in with the kiddies, I suppose ;D
It did eschew a solid concept for characters, and really they were even more like themes themselves. Like musical motifs within a broad piece of music. It had a rhythm to it, and a pace -- which kind of explains the lack of details at times. But the characters ruled the day, and they were wonderful. The Joker was a complete psychopath, and was simply relating to who he saw was a kind of kin -- the Batman. We got to see the painful descent of Harvey Dent into Two-Face, and his redemption at the hands of the one man who wanted him most to succeed -- Bruce Wayne.
But yeah, it's really hard to see Bat-fisticuffs and not think of Adam West and the old TV show, and the cellphone thing was pretty James Bond, but it looked trippy as hell.
My full fanboy splurge on it is here: http://biff.quaddicted.com/?p=20
Best Action Movie Ever At 7 Or 8
#2473 posted by nitin [203.217.92.4] on 2008/09/02 02:02:24
surely Die Hard 1 or Indy 1 get more than that :)
I've seen a whole bunch of stuff, will post more comments later but here's a few to start of with.
Redbelt (2008) - David Mamet's latest is a competent film, let down by a poor ending and a plot that doesn't quite coalesce together as well as it should. Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Mike Terry, a jujitsu practitioner and teacher who lives by his own code, one which relies on purity and morality and is out of touch with both the modern world and the martial arts world which revels in the money grabbing exercise of staged championships for mass consumption. And when Emily Mortimer's attorney accidentally walks into his training centre, things take a dramatic shift, drawing Mike into a world he does not want to enter and one which contrasts with his beliefs.
For about an hour, Mamet keeps you riveted with his trademark sharp dialogue and a very strong central performance from the always reliable Ejiofor. Then, cracks in the story begin to appear and they only widen as the movie hurtles towards what can best be described as a very unlikely climax. A disappointing end to what was otherwise quite a good film.
6/10
Onibaba (1964) - brilliant japanese 'horror' film that's not really scary in a general sense but is always constantly unsettling due to a feeling of otherworldly creepiness in just about every frame. Set in medieval Japan, it focuses on two women, a mother and her daughter in law, who have to resort to a life of finishing off and looting participants of war in order to trade and survive. The opening sequences are absolutely spectacular in terms of setting the mood and establishing character, all achieved without any dialogue and relying instead on music, sound and imagery to convey it. Then, the story takes a dramatic shift when the friend of the women's son/husband returns and interferes in their relationship.
Its great stuff, the first 15 min and the last 15 min being some of the best cinema you will ever see and the remainder still being top notch stuff despite the last act being a bit rushed and parts of the middle section also being slightly perfunctory.
8/10
The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964) - how much someone likes this is going to directly depend on how much they like musicals. I don't really like them at all, so I don't think this is a great film but even I could see that if you do, this is probably one of the best of its kind. Jacques Demy's famous film shows a director in complete control of his material, even if its peculiar material where every bit of dialogue is sung but no one dances. I thought that if you werent into musicals that maybe you got used to the whole singing thing after 15 or so min, but you don't. So having non-stop singing for 90 min is either likely to enthral you or annoy you, without there being much middle ground.
But, what can be said is that Demy knows how to do his stuff and it looks great. It also has Catherine Deneuve, who could do wonders with even the plainest of roles and her acting once again stands out, even amongst all the singing and colours.
6/10
Scarlet Street (1945) - Fritz Lang's greatest american film and I personally even rate it above M. Lang utilises the same team as his earlier Woman in the Window, namely Edward G Robinson, Dan Duryea and Joan Bennett, but this time the movie is not compromised by a studio attached ending complying with the production code. Robinson is terrific as middle aged Christopher Cross, a self pitying working class cashier who is stuck with the most annoying wife imaginable and is hoping that someone else apart from her looks at him before he dies. Enter the characters of Duryea and Bennett who decide to use the situation to their advantage by stringing Cross along and swindling him in the process.
Its beautifully scripted, tautly directed and extremely well shot film noir.
8/10
Breaking and Entering (2006) - Anthony Minghella's most poorly received film and I don't really know why, I much prefer it to his more epic but hollow stuff. It's a very interesting look at multicultural England, in fact theme wise its much similar to Paul Haggis' Crash, but executed far more thoughtfully and convincingly. Its pacing is a bit off, the first 2/3 is a bit slow (despite always being interesting) and the last 20 minor so a bit rushed, but otherwise the screenplay is fairly well penned by Minghella with rich characterisations and interactions. Most the principal actors (jude law, juliette binoche and robin wright penn) acquit themselves fairly well but the casting for the smaller roles is also spot on with Ray Winstone, Vera Farmiga and Martin Freeman also putting in excellent and memorable work. Farmiga and Winstone also provide some welcome humour to counter an otherwise serious narrative.
7.5/10
Actions
#2474 posted by [Kona] [118.92.142.201] on 2008/09/02 10:30:21
Yeah, and I'd give The Predator a 10!
Nitin, will get Onibaba and Scarlet Street. How on earth do you get through so many movies Nitin? I try to watch a bit of a movie everynight before I go to bed, but usually only cover 2 or so per week. Just watched 3 J-Horrors, New Blood, Suicide Circle & Uzumaki.
New Blood
Quite scary for the first half, but the ghost came into the movie too often by the end and there ended up being some major holes. The big twist at the end was surprising, but left a bitter taste.
Uzumaki
Had some quite scary moments, take note Hollywood, but the main plot was poor; everyone wants to become a spiral. What the hell? Lame ending aswell.
Suicide Circle
Some of the scenes in this were quite memorable - in particular when several high school students suddenly decide, out of the blue, to commit suicide and they all jump off a school building. That's a scene I'll not soon forget. Interesting movie, and best of the bunch, but the plot was a little far-fetched. It was made at a time where suicides in Japan were occuring more and more often.
Currently trying to sit through the 3-hour slog of Kubrick's Sparticus. #211 on IMDB, but I'm not sure it really deserves that.
TDK
#2475 posted by Shambler [77.97.138.124] on 2008/09/02 10:42:00
9.3, word.
Kona
#2476 posted by nitin [203.217.92.4] on 2008/09/02 11:59:49
I dont watch regular tv, just dvds. So in one night of about 2 hrs viewing, I get through either one film or 1-2 eps of a tv show (depending on the length).
And IMHO Spartacus is pretty average, heaps better Kubrick than that.
Kubrick
#2477 posted by [Kona] [118.92.142.201] on 2008/09/02 14:23:10
Yeah Eyes Wide Shut and Dr Strangelove are masterpieces. 2001 I enjoyed twice, but would be a big undertaking to watch again - it's pretty long and dull by todays standards. Paths Of Glory & A Clockwork Orange were also very good. Hmm what else. The Shining & Full Metal Jacket I felt were a little overated but still decent. Barry Lyndon was one of the most boring movies I've ever seen.
Havent Seen Eyes Wide Shut Or Barry Lyndon Yet
#2478 posted by nitin [203.217.92.4] on 2008/09/02 14:39:46
agree on strangelove and The Shining. Also rate 2001 and Paths of Glory very highly. Full Metal Jacket's terrible IMHO.
I recommend The Killing, brilliant stuff.
#2479 posted by [Kona] [118.92.142.201] on 2008/09/03 00:45:41
Yeah The Killing is good too, though not very Kubrian. The sudden abrubt ending was interesting, and frustrating. I liked the lead characters performance in it.
#2480 posted by nitin [203.217.92.4] on 2008/09/03 11:47:36
Mini reviews of last week's worth of viewing:
Persepolis (2007) - the abrupt ending stops it from being an instant classic but otherwise this is brilliant stuff. Equal parts funny and touching, Marjane Satrapi's autobiographical tale of growing up in (and out of) Iran during the 80's is a very distinct and personal film. The animation is technically adequate but the stark, expressionistic black and white style is used very very effectively to mesh with, and highlight, the material. You can also enjoy it on many levels, which is not something you can say about most films with a theme like this one.
7.5-8/10
Rogue (2007) - Greg McLean has a great horror film in him and although he hasn't quite got there yet (Wolf Creek,/b> just missed that mark due to second half predictability), the signs are good. This never attempts to be anything more than an entertaining B movie australian version of Jaws, and on that level it succeeds pretty well. Extremely well shot and with some very effective suspense sequences, one only wonders what can be done if McLean sets his aim a bit higher than simply making a genre picture.
6.5/10
Port of Shadows (1938) - Marcel Carne is most famous for the brilliant Children of Paradise, but that is reputedly only the last of what is considered a sequence of 6 classic films. This is the second in that series and while I cant say I thought it was anywhere near 'classic' level, it is an undeniably entertaining film despite some stilted scripting and acting.
6.5/10
Not One Less (2000) - Zhang Yimou's attempt at a neo-realist docudrama, complete with non professional actors and only location shooting, and its quite good. The movie follows the story of a 13 yr old girl who becomes a substitute teacher in rural China when the previous teacher has to leave for a month. What follows is an effective, if sentimental, look at the hardships and motivations in a survivalist world where your first instinct is just to watch out for yourself.
7/10
Morocco (1933) - early Josef von Sternberg/Marlene Dietrich collaboration and whilst it has moments of magic where Dietrich's screen presence is used to great effect, the bulk of it is a plodding, unconvincing and uninvolving love story.
5.5/10
Reconstruction (2003) - overly pretentious but still entertaining effort from danish director Christoffer Boe. Boe expressly announces to the audience at the start that what follows is 'not real and only a film, but that you will still care [about what happens to those involved]". From then on, he expertly manipulates and re-manipulates the audience time and again without caring to explain what it is that is going on. I suppose that is the point, as made at the start of the film, and while you do care about the characters to a certain extent, its still all a little underwhelming when none of it (deliberately) comes together at all.
6.5/10
Witness (1985) - never considered this to be top tier Weir but I warmed a little more to it this time around. I still think its an uncomfortable battle between two different films, both of which work reasonably well on their own but are less than the sum of their parts when combined. Still, worth a watch.
6/10
To Be or Not To Be (1941) - have never warmed to Ernst Lubitsch, until now. This is pretty hilarious stuff with some extremely clever and funny writing and top notch performances led by Jack Benny and Carole Lombard, a husband and wife acting duo on the polish theatrical scene just before WWII and who then become involved in political espionage during the war. Lubitsch carefully assembles his pieces at the start and then knocks them over again and again with great comedic effect as the movie continues.
8/10
The Quiet Duel (1949) - probably the least effective Kurosawa film that I've seen and even then it has moments of greatness thanks to a combination of immaculate composition and reliable performances from his staple cast of Toshiro Mifune and Takeshi Shimura. On the whole though, this attempt by Kurosawa to again indirectly explore post-war Japan is a fairly mundane and predictable melordrama.
5.5/10
Fuck
#2481 posted by nitin [203.217.92.4] on 2008/09/03 11:48:13
sorry about the bolding.
Hush Hush Sweet Charlotte (1964) - Robert Aldrich and Bette Davis's followup to their fabulously gothic Whatever Happened to Baby Jane is not as successful an attempt as that film, but is entertaining in its own way. This time Davis cant quite strike the right balance between 'over the top but still believable' and 'scenery chewing', resorting far too often to acting like a possessed marionette. Still, its magnificently shot and despite some unconvincing performances and an unnecessarily long length, Aldrich's inspired direction keeps it going.
6.5/10
From Here to Eternity (1953) - Set around the events of Pearl Harbour, but that is only a backdrop for what is really an attempt at examining the american psyche at the time. However, despite that ambition, it is actually a pretty corny film (some of the lines have to be heard to be believed) which only works because some of the actors deliver performances that are much better than the roles they were given (namely Montgomery Clift, Frank Sinatra and Donna Reed).
6/10
A Tale Of Two Sisters
#2482 posted by [Kona] [118.92.142.201] on 2008/09/05 04:01:20
A Tale Of Two Sisters (j-horror)
A fantastic, psychological horror with aspects of thriller/drama. Has some good scary scenes, but the whole movie doesn't make sense until you've got to the end, and realise what horrible events took place. I especially liked the pace of some scenes - done very slowly which just amps the suspense. Hollywood horrors are far too rushed. The best horror I've seen since Silent Hill. I think it is/was remade by Americans. No doubt the remake is rubbish.
Remake Is Still To Come
#2483 posted by nitin [203.217.92.4] on 2008/09/05 13:19:30
I thought it was decent but no more. Then again I hated Silent Hill so what do I know.
The next movie by the same guy is also worth checking out, A Bittersweet Life. There's a 20 min action scene in the middle that's just phenomenal and makes up for the average nature of the rest of the movie.
#2484 posted by nitin [124.168.28.16] on 2008/09/12 16:10:44
The Furies (1951) - complex psychological western from Anthony Mann that is a great film until the last act which comes across as either a studio tack on or an ill advised attempt by the scriptwriters to overcome writers block.
Either way, the ending lets down the film which is otherwise a well performed, written and directed effort centring around the family poweplays at a new mexico ranch. Barbara Stanwyck is terrific in the main role and is aided by Mann's rather dramatic use of imagery.
7/10
Lars and the Real Girl (2007) - decent attempt at something a little different, but despite reasonable writing and acting, it struggles to overcome the central premise that is, at best, highly implausible. Its almost as if the writer came up with the central premise (a reserved, shy man buys a 'love' doll as his companion) without ever really thinking through its logical consequences.
I was ready to believe that some of the people in his life would play along with it for his sake, but to believe that a whole town would, especially in the manner depicted, is just asking a bit too much.
Still, not without merit as most the acting is quite good.
6-6.5/10
The Sicilian Clan (1969) - above average french heist film whose main attraction is having Alain Delon, Jean Gabin and Lino Ventura in the same film, in much the same way as The Score's main attraction was having De Niro, Norton and Brando in the same movie.
And much like those three actors were in The Score, the famous french trio is equally watchable in what is otherwise a fairly predictable, run of the mill, but entertaining affair.
6.5/10
30 Rock season 1 - bit too hit and miss, but the seer amount of jokes in any given episode means that it is more hit than miss. Still I wish it was more consistent in the quality of humour because it could b a great show (rather than just a good one).
7/10
Waltz with Bashir (2008) - stunning animated film from israeli director Ari Forlman which is hard to categorise.
Its a quasi documentary mixed with doses of surreal imagery that wouldnt be out of place in something like Apocalypse Now. The movie follows Forlman trying to reconstruct his memory from his time in the Israeli forces after he experiences a dream 20 yrs later that contains familiar yet unknown images.
Some of the war imagery is by the numbers in the manner it is depicted and theres a level of disconnect with the main character but this a very interesting, confronting and thought provoking effort.
7.5/10
Lars And The Real Girl
#2485 posted by megaman [92.72.7.225] on 2008/09/12 16:43:44
really surprised me, i was expecting some stupid comedy thing. You're right though, it just doesn't get better than 'good'.
Cowboy Bebop
#2486 posted by Spirit [213.39.211.205] on 2008/09/15 13:28:22
I started watching http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cowbo... recently and really like it (4th episode now). Recommended!
Yeah Its Good
#2487 posted by nitin [203.217.68.48] on 2008/09/15 13:40:40
movie's decent too.
#2488 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2008/09/16 18:43:12
naruto naruto naruto
tentacle porn
#2489 posted by Spirit [213.39.211.247] on 2008/09/27 21:54:25
Keeping Mum (2005)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt044465...
Do not read the user comment at imdb.
I enjoyed this movie. Sure it has some not-so-great moments but overall it is nice black humour. Definitely recommended as it seems rather unpopular.
And contrary to the terrible Johnny English, Rowan Atkinson is very nice in this movie (well, it's totally different, Johnny English is terrible all by itself).
Re: #2438
#2490 posted by metlslime [24.130.121.165] on 2008/09/29 09:48:47
So i was wrong, the Quarantine opening soon in the U.S. is actually a remake of the Spanish [Rec], not an import of the original.
Metl
#2491 posted by negke [82.82.173.107] on 2008/09/29 11:36:46
See #2272
Metl
#2492 posted by bambuz [193.167.3.4] on 2008/09/29 15:29:20
as expected. Are Americans able to watch anything produced elsewhere?
The language can't be the barrier as even The Office series from UK had to be remade in USA.
That is scary. Reminds me of the iron curtain.
Simon Pegg Says
#2493 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.249] on 2008/09/29 17:24:42
jump!
Let's See
#2494 posted by HeadThump [4.136.111.249] on 2008/09/29 17:40:50
Parisian Michael Vartan played lead man in a series for years, the most popular TV personality is English man Hugh Laurie, Dominic West and Aidan Gillen lead in the best series that ever ran, Naveen Andrews plays the most popular character in another great show, Laura Logan is chief correspondent for CBS News division, so many actors are from Oz that it is difficult to keep track of them, Barack Obama might just win in a land slide and is doing well in States that Democrats haven't carried in over thirty years and you are tut tutting about American Xenophobia? Take your fucking blinders off, man. Get out of that glass house once in a while.
All In The Game
#2495 posted by Preach [217.44.218.173] on 2008/09/29 20:12:35
Dominic West and Aidan Gillen lead in the best series that ever ran
Unless I missed it, which is quite possible, I haven't seen any love for that series in this thread. That series is, of course, "The Wire", and better critics than myself have failed to express just how good a show it is.
Although on the American/British divide, it is interesting to note that while all 5 series of The Wire are currently bestsellers on amazon.co.uk, only the most recent series sneaks in at number 93 on amazon.com. :-p
HeadThump
#2496 posted by bambuz [91.152.66.83] on 2008/09/29 20:20:41
And they have been americanized. Speak english in a completely american setting and culture. Laurie has british accent and that's it, that's a counter somehow to my point? I think it rather proves it than counters it.
Preach
#2497 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.222] on 2008/09/29 22:26:42
Although on the American/British divide, it is interesting to note that while all 5 series of The Wire are currently bestsellers on amazon.co.uk, only the most recent series sneaks in at number 93 on amazon.com. :-p
That is curious, though I suspect word of mouth will lead to a steady sales stream in the long run. I only started to watch the DVDs recently on Netflix, and David Simon has been on my radar since Homicide came out (first two seasons of the show that is based on are good as well).
Hugh Laurie can pass for Mid Atlantic prep school, but Dominic West' Baltimore accent is phenomenal.
Bambuz, not even close. Laura Logan, and Naveen Andrews are hardly Americanized. I could give you a dozen more examples but I thought I made my point brutally enough as it was that you would understand how little that over the top Euro-Chauvenist (which you are the worst example I have come across, and no doubt you embarrass other Europeans by its frequency) that you would compare American cinematic preferences to Stalinist Russia for Chrissakes actually reflects anything resembling reality.
Have you ever actually met an American? You continually proffer opinions about us that are
so off base as to make me wonder.
Correction
#2498 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.222] on 2008/09/29 22:32:07
(first two seasons of the show that is based on are good as well).
(first two seasons of the show that is based on it are good as well).
The book came first, of course ;)
Oh, and Preach, I'm really getting into the fifth season over the last few weeks. The Newspaper culture presented there is one of the sharpest digs I've seen Simon deliver yet.
HeadThump
#2499 posted by bambuz [91.152.66.83] on 2008/09/30 00:11:28
Just the laws of supply and demand. When everything is remade and nothing shown as original, it's weird.
Oh, I'm a purist and have strong opinions on many things. I may oversimplify and provoke too to make the argument short and easy to understand.
But Euro-Chauvenist (sic), that I thank you for. (*Adjusts monocle*) I have been upgraded from Euro-Trash.
"You Can't Evaccuate People. A Building Can Be Evaccuated..."
#2500 posted by Preach [217.44.218.173] on 2008/09/30 01:13:07
Yeah, the fifth season was a great capstone for the show in my eyes, although not everyone agrees. Notably, quite a few media critics didn't like it so much, perhaps because they dislike having the spotlight on them! Some people said that the newsroom felt "tacked on", but to me that was kind of missing the point. The criticism is that the newspaper misses most of the stories in the series, so it has to be "disconnected" in those places.
Anyhow, I got me the 5th season DVD now, which just got released over here, and had a listen through the commentaries, when I get a chance I'll watch through the full series again. Also, you said about the Homicide book, is that worth getting? I just picked up a copy of Clockers, which is by a Wire staff writer called Richard Price, and if you liked season 1 of The Wire then you'll enjoy this one too.
Homocide Is Defintely
#2501 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.98] on 2008/09/30 02:02:17
One of the few books that are worth the awards it has earned. Baltimore has produced more than its fair share of first rate social commentators.
I agree with you about them missing the point. After the 'Amsterdam' fiasco where media sensationalism killed that project and a few careers in the police force, making them part of the story arc feels inevitable instead of tacked on.
You're welcome, Bambuz. When I think of Eurotrash I have images of heroin abuse and raves in my head and not hermetically sealed academians so that word didn't feel right and thus 'Euro-Chauvinist' was born (funny, this spell checker on Firefox didn't catch that misapplied 'e' for me).
HeadThump
#2502 posted by megaman [92.73.86.184] on 2008/09/30 02:06:44
name the last five books of foreign authors you read ;)
Not Sure What The Point Is,
#2503 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.162] on 2008/09/30 03:48:18
but Borges, Gaimon, Graham Greene, Hayek, and Darwin.
The Wire
#2504 posted by nitin [124.168.4.227] on 2008/09/30 12:48:21
I got season one a couple of weeks ago, havent got around to it but I have heard/read great things.
Ona More Serious Note
#2505 posted by HeadThump [91.152.66.83] on 2008/09/30 13:00:00
Don't you consider it weird that if a Japanese or English movie or TV series exists, and the idea, concept and execution all are good and fascinating and raise the interest of movie studios or TV channels, then that is not imported to USA as it is but is rather remade? Why? There must be a reason for spending all that money on making it. Why wouldn't the original sell or get viewers?
Be it Ring, Haneke's movies, Rec, The Office... Not that it's a phenomenon just in USA. Most of the western world is used to Hollywood and wants to see the world through it.
I don't know much about US television or movie theaters and what they offer for viewing, having very limited experience, but still.
Either it ain't so, or then it is so, and in case it is, I'd like to hear your reasoning and speculations as to why.
I think the latest specimen in weirdness, taking it to the furthest point so far in my view, is an upcoming future TV fiction series of American emigrants/refugees leaving USA and forming "americatowns" around the world. Talk about keeping insulated in your culture. :)
Are there tv shows there in USA which are foreign directed with foreign people acting and speaking a foreign language so that you can still identify with them despite the differences? I'm not talking about one foreign born actor in an American tv series. What about in Germany or the UK or France? Do they do a lot of remakes for themselves too... and if their domestic audience and entertainment industry was bigger, would they do it much more?
Every country and ethnicity does localization. It's easier to identify with your own people. Big brothers and survivors are made everywhere. That's natural. But people in most places (I assume, I don't really know) can enjoy a good film or TV series made in a foreign culture as well. People have similarities, and sometimes even the outward differences can accentuate them.
Blah, this post is a disorganized mess and all over the place, I hope you can get the carrying thought in there...
That Was Me
#2506 posted by bambuz [91.152.66.83] on 2008/09/30 13:00:32
it was addressed to headthump
Well, That Is A Better Made Argument
#2507 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.216] on 2008/09/30 17:45:28
than the crazy one that suggested the US is a closed society.
Obviously, if the movie is in a foreign language the scope of the viewing audience changes and even with subtitles there are many people who don't like to read while following a movies plot. Still, Iron Monkey, Hong Kong Hustle, Crouching Tiger, and even some of those terribly manneristic movies from Zhang Ziyi did very well.
I would suggest aesthetic preferences of the native audience shape whether or not a movie will be accepted in the original. To many Americans, the pacing of even older Hollywood productions can seem excruciatingly drawn out. As audience experience with the medium matures over time many of the framing devices used to set up scenes are no longer necessary for the narrative to be cogent to the audience.
Happy-Go-Lucky
#2508 posted by bambuz [91.152.66.83] on 2008/09/30 20:53:34
Pretty good. A character drama. Some strong roles and very good casting here. I recommend to people.
It's not an Earth shattering movie and doesn't try to be.
Bender's Big Score
#2509 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2008/10/01 00:18:59
Got this yesterday. Ordered it for my birthday. When I opened the packaging there was no DVD! Rip off! So I sent the packaging back and I should be getting the replacement soon.
I did see it on youtube, so I know it's really good if you're a fan of futurama. Beast with a Billion Backs was not so good. It was kind of stinky to be honest.
#2510 posted by [Kona] [118.92.142.201] on 2008/10/01 13:10:52
America remakes all good foreign movies so they can make lots of money from it. It's all about the money.
But Why?
#2511 posted by Kona [130.233.243.229] on 2008/10/01 15:15:44
They would make the same money with much less investment if they just redistributed the original!
That Was Me
#2512 posted by bambuz [130.233.243.229] on 2008/10/01 15:16:04
I hate making the same mistake...
Bambuz
#2513 posted by nitin [124.168.4.227] on 2008/10/01 15:31:05
no they wouldnt, hardly anyone would watch it. But if you remake it with young stars, people will. Simple as that.
Also
#2514 posted by megaman [92.72.15.232] on 2008/10/01 16:17:26
it wouldn't be the same guys receiving the money?!
What Everyone Else Said...
#2515 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/10/01 21:17:40
1. american actors speaking english will have a much broader audience than foreign actors speaking a foreign language, even if the movie is otherwise the same.
2. and anyway, it creates lots of jobs for actors and crewmembers to remake these movies. Importing a movie only requires a handful of people to subtitle and distribute it, not good for the economy. We must reduce our dependence on foreign film!
#2516 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/10/01 21:21:25
much broader audience
I mean a broader audience within the US, if that wasn't clear.
Nitin
#2517 posted by bambuz [91.152.66.83] on 2008/10/01 23:57:02
that was exactly the answer I was asking for.
And then, why would hardly anyone watch it if it was foreign.
Or why would harly anyone watch it in Finland if it was not made in Hollywood? As far as I know, the original Ring was not in theaters around here, but the american remake was. It can't be just the language.
#2518 posted by [Kona] [118.92.142.201] on 2008/10/02 00:25:27
#1 because humans are too narrow-minded and don't want anything different to what they are used to. if that happens the rule it out straight away. americans in particular only want to watch american movies.
#2 we want to watch movies we can relate to ourselves.
i don't mind watching foreign movies with subs, but most less-avid-moviegoers hate subs. you get used to them pretty quick though.
Most Peopl E
#2519 posted by nitin [124.168.4.227] on 2008/10/02 11:58:29
want to watch movies for fun, I'm sure no one disputes that??
So therefore, its really not all that weird that most people would rather watch a film in the language they understand rather than a language that they have to read to understand.
Dub It Then
#2520 posted by negke [82.82.161.61] on 2008/10/02 12:31:59
Much easier and much less expensive than remaking the thing completely. Less intense too, but that's another issue.
And What About
#2521 posted by bamb [91.152.66.83] on 2008/10/02 13:35:10
The Office?
I've seen a few pieces of both the British and the US version (I don't know how much the US version is a remake and how much it is just inspired by the original), both were good.
It can't be the language...
That Backs Up Nitin's Point
#2522 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.213] on 2008/10/02 18:03:54
after all, there are UK, US, French, German, Canadian (Quebec), and Chilean versions of the show.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_O...
The British version only ran 14 episodes, and you need 23 for a standard prime time series run in the US, so mute point.
British Shows
#2523 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.213] on 2008/10/02 18:11:43
get shuffled to a station called PBS - Public Broadcasting Service. I don't know what is in on there now except for Upstairs/Downstairs (I think it still runs), and BBC nightly news report. I don't watch the station much now but I do recall as a kid watching Monty Python, Are You Being Served, Fawlty (sp?) Towers, and best of all reruns of The Avengers.
Shit On A Crumpet
#2524 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.45] on 2008/10/02 20:25:20
now except for Upstairs/Downstairs (I think it still runs)
I was thinking of Eastenders which does run on the local PBS affiliate. Upstairs, Downstairs reruns were commonly shown in the 80's but not I doubt if they do now.
What Headthump Said
#2525 posted by nitin [124.168.4.227] on 2008/10/03 01:59:03
Despite being one of the funniest shows of all time, the UK office only had 14 eps. Now someone thought, we could make our own version of this, use the first 12 eps as a template and then just see how many (US) seasons we can get out of this.
Currently upto season 4 which is about 80 odd episodes so there you go.
Plus theres something to each culture having a different brand of humour so the the different versions all tweak it for the local audience. Whether they are superior/inferior is another question.
And Some Movie Reviews
#2526 posted by nitin [124.168.4.227] on 2008/10/03 02:04:30
Under the Sand (2000) - one of Francois Ozon's better films, mainly due to a superb performance from Charlotte Rampling as a woman struggling to come to terms with an accident that befalls her husband. Ozon's direction is restrained and allows Rampling to carry an otherwise straightforward plot.
7/10
Nosferatu (1979) - I found this to be heaps better than Coppola's version of Dracula and mainly because Werner Herzog plays it as a gothic tragedy rather than campy horror. I guess if you're looking for the horror, you wont like it as much as I did, but the combination of some terrific imagery and a haunting soundtrack does still lend it an uneasy atmosphere. Klaus Kinski makes for an interesting Dracula, all tortured and self pitying, and with far more depth for this character than in any other incarnation of him I have come across. And when you add to that some good supporting performances from Isabelle Adjani and Bruno Ganz, you end up with a very satisfying if unconventional experience.
7.5/10
Paper Moon (1973) - not sure about Tatum O'Neal getting an oscar, but this is otherwise a pretty entertaining little film from Peter Bogdanovich. Set in depression era america, it's a road movie of sorts that deftly combines comedy and drama in the story of a drifter conman who takes his maybe daughter along with him when her mother dies. I hadnt seen Ryan O'Neal do much comedy before but he's pretty good at it, although everyone is upstaged by Madeline Kahn in a great little cameo. Also the cinematography by Lazlo Kovacs is brilliant.
7.5/10
Roman Holiday (1953) - went in thinking I wouldn't really like this and it is quite corny in parts but, in the end, Audrey Hepburn's charm just wins you over. William Wyler also makes great use of the location shooting in Rome. But it really is Hepburn that makes this work, tremendous screen presence.
7.5/10
Peeping Tom (1960) - released in the same year as Psycho and it's hard to believe that, although similarly themed, one film cemented the reputation of a great filmmaker while the other destroyed the reputation of its maker. Michael Powell went from Britain's darling to Britain's scapegoat with the release of what is really a great film. There's a few flaws, particularly the way in which some characters only serve the purpose of moving the narrative in a certain direction, but on the whole, its quite a complex psychological movie that messes with your head. Without getting into specific plot details, the movie follows, or rather participates the viewer in, the life of a murderous voyeur who is fascinated with his victims' dying expression of terror.
Every scene shows remarkable talent and is setup beautifully and if it wasn't for some convenient plotting and the flaw mentioned above, it would be an absolute masterpiece.
8/10
Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008) - cant say I find too many of these Judd Apatow 'comedies' to be all that funny but some of them, like Knocked Up, do work as a dramedy. This one also has only a couple of actually funny parts (some of Russell Brand's line delivery is great and the Dracula rock opera is reasonably inspired), but thanks to Mila Kunis and Kristen Bell, it works to an extent as lightweight drama.
6/10 (just)
Cassandra's Dream (2007) - If Match Point was a return to form for Woody Allen, then Scoop and this make sure it was only a temporary return. Covering similar territory to his far superior Crimes and Misdemeanours, Allen makes a plodding film that, despite good performances from Colin Farrell, Ewan McGregor and the always reliable Tom Wilkinson, is just flat in every regard. The direction and writing are just downright bizarre, lacking any real energy and resulting in the whole movie feeling like a stage rehearsal rather than an actual film.
5-5.5/10
It Happened One Night (1934) - well now I know where Bugs Bunny came from. Clark Gable's inspired performance in Frank Capra's enjoyable screwball comedy had to have some bearing on the way that Looney Tunes character talked and acted. It helps that Gable has some great dialogue to work with but half of the greatness still comes from the manner in which it is delivered. The movie itself is excellent, with very good rapport between the cast, and only a slightly weak last act takes off a little bit of the sheen.
7-7.5/10
Ride the High Country (1962) - before Sam Packinpah started creating his own brand of Western, he paid homage to the old style John Fordish western with this movie. I much prefer Peckinpah and Leone's style of western than Ford's but this is quite a solid, well made if predictable and unremarkable film. Everything is of pretty high quality but in the end, this particular style is just not to my taste.
6.5/10
And Some More
#2527 posted by nitin [124.168.4.227] on 2008/10/03 02:05:17
Straw Dogs (1971) - beautifully shot, superbly acted and extremely well directed film that is a psychologically complex, if a little confused, take on the nature of violence. That it manages to mostly achieve that without resorting to much on screen violence (although the scenes that are there are just as uncomfortable to watch as they would have been back on release) is a testament to Peckinaph's control over the material and Dustin Hoffman's acting skills.
The first 2/3 is a brilliantly controlled exercise in stretched out psychological suspense, so much so that when it eventually gives way to the visceral last 1/3, it does not quite gel as it should. Otherwise, an excellent film that at the very least will leave you thinking.
7.5/10
Young Mr Lincoln (1939) - its pretty hard to portray earnestness on film without getting too oversentimental and I find that John Ford usually is quite guilty of that, but this time he manages to do it in this 'biography' of Abraham Lincoln's formative years. I say 'biography' because it is definitely not historically accurate but as I dont really rate that as too much of a virtue, I had no real issues with this approach.
The film is fairly simplistic in its structure, you dont really learn anything about Lincoln and it is squarely in the iconography style of filmmaking which I do think limit its scope and impact if you are not american Still, its amazingly shot (some of the framing has to be seen to be believed) and Henry Fonda puts in a terrific performance and is the reason for most of the film's success.
6.5/10
Bad Timing (1980) - Nicolas Roeg's fascinating exploration of love, hate, obsession and memory will not be for everyone (some if it is quite uncomfortable to sit through) but its definitely a very worthwhile experience for anyone willing to go with it. Its quite simplistic from a plot and character point of view, the movie starting out with a man (Art Garfunkel) bringing a woman (Teresa Russell) to a hospital in Vienna after what looks like an overdose, and the rest of the film, through disjointed flashbacks bringing the movie back to that point.
But Roeg employs his trademark associative editing style in such a manner that the simple plot becomes a complex and very interesting narrative, although admittedly some of the impact is lost through a curious bookending of the movie with a police investigation into the events. Both leads are superb, especially Russell, in what are difficult roles, especially since neither character is really all that likeable.
7.5/10
Mike Leigh
#2528 posted by bambuz [91.152.66.83] on 2008/10/04 03:52:12
an interview of him
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBI...
Now it all starts making sense why Happy Go Lucky had such special personalities and scenes.
#2529 posted by nitin [124.168.93.171] on 2008/10/15 12:01:10
Little Caesar (1931) - solid if unexceptional old gangster film with the only notable aspect being Edward G Robinson's central performance as a Scarface type criminal which obviously laid down the template for many to imitate over the years. The rest of it is fairly pedestrian but Robinson makes sure that every scene he is in is interesting.
6.5/10
Iron Man (2008) - fairly solid comic book movie that suffers a bit from dodgy pacing at the start where it’s a bit too frenetic to successfully establish character and from an end that’s too anticlimactic. The middle section of the film is the best, where it deftly combines humour and action (the extended action sequence in the middle of the film is excellently staged). The cast is fine, although despite Jeff Bridges' best efforts, his character is a pretty weak villain.
7/10
Il Bidone (1952) - Although I'm not a huge fan of his later, more self-conscious and self-indulgent films like La Dolce Vita and 8 1/2, I quite like Fellini's earlier more simpler films.
This falls into the second category (despite an unnecessarily long and showy party scene in the middle which seems like a test run for the even longer one in La Dolce Vita), following a team of low level swindlers around the outskirts of Rome. It's not a con film, but rather about the people who have to resort to live this style of life. The acting varies from in quality but Fellini makes up for that by establishing and developing most of his characters through a combination of Nino Rota's excellent score and some very fluid camerawork.
7/10
The Day The Earth Stood Still (1951) - equal parts corny and impressive science fiction film from the 50's when concept mattered more than special effects. It will be interesting to see how the new remake turns out but I think its very likely that ideology will be reversed.
Although this version is considered a classic, I found it to have too many gaping plot holes and inconsistencies. But the central concept is interesting (spaceship lands on earth, everyone panics thinking its an attack and doesn’t realise the alien wants to communicate something, alien is attacked and assimilates into society, panic escalates etc), if awkwardly handled, and Robert Wise sets up his scenes very well and gets some pretty solid work from Patricia Neal (although hers is probably the only good performance).
6.5/10
The Ox Bow Incident (1943) - like a 'western' version of 12 Angry Men except that even though Henry Fonda again plays the moral centre of the movie, he does not take action as he did in Lumet's film. Which leaves William Wellman with a difficult task that despite his best attempts comes across as a bit too preachy in the final 5 min when the 'message' is literally read out to the audience. Till then, it’s a pretty fine film with tremendous atmosphere, a variety of interesting characters and great use of light and shadow.
6.5/10
Exiled (2006) - I've found his previous films to be lacking but Johhny To finally arrives with this one, a successful blend of the movies of Peckinpah, Leone and Melville. Eschewing the usual genre trappings of the asian crime genre, To manages to imbue his movie with a cinematic language that doesn’t require dialogue for communication, just mere gestures, glances and tics do the work. His characters say a lot without actually talking too much and To also uses this drawn out communication to ratchet up the suspense in particular scenes with minimal effort. As for the action scenes, they are some of the best in recent memory and also accompanied by a brilliant score.
I'm now actually looking forward to his upcoming english remake of Melville's classic Le Cercle Rouge.
7.5/10
Crimson Rivers (2001) - french serial killer movie with a plot so ridiculous that Agatha Christie would be proud. Matthieu Kossowitz seems to realise that his plot is silly and decides to try and distract you from it with some stunning imagery and finely executed set pieces. This ploy works well enough, as do the leads in Jean Reno and Vincent Cassel, but when the it all comes together you still end up forgetting all the good stuff and only remember the implausibility of it all.
5.5/10
Gar Brain
#2530 posted by mwh [118.93.158.21] on 2008/10/15 12:21:34
I read "Iron Man" and started thing about the Ted Hughes story.
Nitin's review then didn't make much sense :)
Goddammit
#2531 posted by Spirit [213.39.174.139] on 2008/10/16 10:06:15
I just finished the last episode of Cowboy Bebop. And once again a great thing was ruined by a super sad ending for me. AAAaahh!
You Should Stop Watching Anime Then
#2532 posted by Lunaran [75.135.73.11] on 2008/10/16 15:31:34
they seem to be a fan of doing that
Spirit.
#2533 posted by Bal [82.234.123.21] on 2008/10/16 15:32:34
It's a sad ending, but it's not a bad one (which is most often the case).
Bal
#2534 posted by Spirit [213.39.174.139] on 2008/10/16 15:36:55
Agreed, it is beautifully melancholic. I just prefer happily-ever-after. Well, gonna watch the movie soon.
Hmm
#2535 posted by bear [130.242.7.250] on 2008/10/18 19:23:40
I seem to have forgotten the ending...
#2536 posted by nitin [203.217.80.192] on 2008/10/22 10:35:18
4 Months, 3 Weeks, 2 Days (2007) - Palme D'or winner of 2007 and its not hard to see why. The premise is something like this : 1987. Romania is still under communist rule. Amongst other things, abortion is illegal. Otilia agrees to help her college roomate Gabita get one from a Mr Bebe.
That description might put a lot of people off straightaway but they would miss out on a stunner of a film. It doesnt touch on anything concerning the pros and cons of abortion, it doesnt directly touch on anything about the communist regime (although there is a fascinating amount of indirect detail), it focuses simply on a friendship and the strain its put through as events conspire out of control. Its an undoubtedly brutal experience to sit through, simply because of Cristian Mungiu's ability to sucker punch his audience through confident storytelling that heads off into unexpected plot turns which just seem to appear out of nowhere.
My only small complaint is that the film doesnt end as well as it should, although I'm hard pressed to think of a better ending personally. Maybe there was just nowhere left to go after what had come before.
8/10
The Petrified Forest (1936) - solid gangster film that is surprisingly filled with more ideas than is usual for the genre. But they're interesting and well articulated ideas, perhaps too well articulated as it descends into too much talk a bit too often but the characters are extremely well defined and the performances from Leslie Howard, Bette Davis and Humphrey Bogart are suitably strong.
7/10
Yuck
#2537 posted by Spirit [213.39.158.100] on 2008/10/22 21:11:07
Tropic Thunder (2008)
Trash. I expected a nice popcorn hollywood comedy but it was much much worse (a kid leading the drug syndicate and stuff. And Jack Black of course.).
#2538 posted by nitin [210.84.63.48] on 2008/11/02 03:48:50
Frankenstein (1931) - its a bit hokey thanks to some of the performances but there is unquestionable talent behind the camera with James Whale creating a very distinct atmosphere that suits the material quite well. Its also fairly short, which means that the hokiness only registers after you have finished watching it.
6.5/10
Bride of Frankenstein (1935) - the sequel seems to be as well regarded as the first film but I thought its tone was wildly uneven, switching abruptly back and forth between black comedy and 'serious' drama. Again, Jamesd Whale keeps it afloat really, with some nicely executed sequences that show good innovation.
5.5/10
Classe Tous Risques (1960) - seems to have been made simply to demonstrate that Jean Pierre Melville wasnt singlehandedly responsible for the french neo noir genre. But it's no mere Melville imitation, Claude Sautet's film being every bit as good as anything that Melville made in the genre, particularly in its dynamic and thrilling first half.
The character work is brilliant, and while the plot peters out a bit in the second half, by then you have experienced a little gem of a crime film.
7.5/10
Destry Rides Again (1930) - tongue in cheek western/comedy with James Stewart and Marlene Dietrich that is harmless fun without ever really being great in either genre.
6.5/10
Dragonwyck (1946) - gothic thriller from Joseph Mankiewicz in the mould of Hitchcock's Rebecca that is a bit of a misfire despite some stunning cinematography and an impressive performance from Vincent Price. Some of the plotting is extremely awkwardly handled and the movie's focus seems to be all wrong as well.
4.5/10
Grand Illusion (1937) - bit of a dated look at WW1, which according to the movie was the 'gentleman's' war. But Jean Renoir's misguided approach to the material results in a decidedly humanistic touch being lent to the proceedings, something that is sorely lacking from quite a lot of war films. That combined with his technical mastery (some of the tracking shots are unbelievable) make this quite a formidable film.
7-7.5/10
Leatherheads (2008) - the first misfire from George Clooney as director but the intent, to recreate the old Hollywood screwball comedy, was admirable.
Unfortunately the script lacked zing and Renee Zellewegger was cast opposite Clooney. I find her to be a terrible actress and she was completely miscast here resulting in not only a limp performance form her but also a complete lack of chemistry between her and Clooney.
4.5/10
Someone Was In A Halloween Mood
#2539 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.32] on 2008/11/02 07:45:16
A lot of those horror movies from the 30's played late at night on the local television affiliates when I was a kid. Amazing how many of them are still watchable today.
What If H P Lovecraft
#2540 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.32] on 2008/11/02 07:48:35
was discovered by Hollywood while he was still writing? One thing for certain, if they were made in the 30's the quality would have been higher than the few movies made of his work in the past few decades.
Headthump
#2541 posted by nitin [210.84.63.48] on 2008/11/02 11:42:27
nah, just happened to be on top of the unwatched movie pile :)
I went through about 15 movies in the last week or so, those were just the first half.
And Talking About Horror
#2542 posted by nitin [210.84.63.48] on 2008/11/02 11:43:18
anyone seen that new danish film Let the Right One In ? That's meant to be a cracker.
Yay
#2543 posted by Spirit [213.39.214.128] on 2008/11/02 12:40:13
I just watched Wayne's World and that was great fun.
Nitin
#2544 posted by [Kona] [118.93.242.153] on 2008/11/03 10:17:09
nitin u should do a favourite movies list. i got one.
Kona
#2545 posted by nitin [124.168.8.147] on 2008/11/03 10:56:09
it'd be too long :)
But if you have time to waste, you can sift through here for the 4.5-5 starrers IMHO.
http://nitin.dvdaf.com
#2546 posted by [Kona] [118.93.242.153] on 2008/11/05 08:35:48
ok i've gone through it all and got a few dozen to get. you certainly like your film noir, don't you nitin?
Favorite Genre :)
#2547 posted by nitin [124.168.8.147] on 2008/11/05 10:35:10
Nitin
#2548 posted by PuLSaR [91.203.96.25] on 2008/11/05 20:25:38
I work in cd/dvd retail shop atm, but i almost don't know films. Can you point me at any good films i should watch? Both old and new ones
Pulsar
#2549 posted by nitin [124.168.8.147] on 2008/11/05 22:52:27
if you could name me 10-15 of your favorite movies or just movies you like, sure.
#2550 posted by Drew [216.168.120.103] on 2008/11/06 06:42:13
Has anyone seen "Inside" or "Martyrs"?
Nitin
#2551 posted by PuLSaR [91.203.96.25] on 2008/11/06 10:25:32
Well, i like sci-fi, horror, historical and unusual films
Pulsar
#2552 posted by nitin [124.168.8.147] on 2008/11/07 08:45:30
that's a pretty broad range but try these if you havent already seen them :
12 Monkeys
28 Weeks Later
Apocalypse Now
Apocalypto
Being John Malkovich
Blue Velvet
Brazil
Children of Men
Dark City
The Descent
Donnie Darko
Downfall
The Fly
From Hell
High Tension
Lost Highway
Memento
Oldboy
Pan's Labyrinth
The Prestige
The Thing
Wolf Creek
Most of those are fairly recentish (ie last 10 years or so) and I'm assuming you've already seen Alien, Aliens and Blade Runner :)
Hrm
#2553 posted by Spirit [80.171.81.121] on 2008/11/08 22:39:05
How To Lose Friends And Alienate People (2008)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt045553...
Pretty bland. Stupid american humor. Simon Pegg suits intelligent nerdy humor much better. Bad character building, very bad. Kirsten Dunst is hot.
Thumbs down.
Woah
#2554 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.187] on 2008/11/08 22:53:48
Kirsten Dunst is hot.
Snags, hot?
http://www.wwtdd.com/post.phtml?pk...
I suppose in a witch broiling children sort of way.
Nitin
#2555 posted by Shambler [82.38.195.22] on 2008/11/08 23:24:40
I think you've hit the nail on the head there.
Pan's Labyrinth is a superb film. The world needs more films like that.
I still need to see The Prestige. The book is excellent like much of Christopher Priest's work.
Ones I liked that may fit with Pulsar's tastes:
Jacob's Ladder
Delicatessan
I Robot
Minority Report
Spirited Away (okay this may not fit but it is brilliant)
No Country For Old Men
ummm there may be more but I am senile.
Havent Read The Book
#2556 posted by nitin [124.168.69.91] on 2008/11/09 01:07:31
but the film version of The Prestige is excellent, although some people have complained that it (unsurprisingly) simplifies the book's plot quite a bit.
I thought about including No Country, but didnt think it fitted what pulsar was after. But its a great film, so yeah probably should have :)
#2557 posted by metlslime [67.180.230.20] on 2008/11/09 05:04:12
More for puslar, trying not to duplicate what's already been suggested:
2001
Audition
Dead Alive
The Great Escape
Hellraiser
Hotel Rwanda
Koyaanisqatsi
Man Bites Dog
Patton
Pitch Black
The Shining
THX 1138
Sorry this list is so short, I had to cull a lot of the movies i like because they were thrillers, martial arts films, cop/crime movies, westerns, samurai films, etc, which didn't really fit your categories.
Hotel Rwanda
#2558 posted by SleepwalkR [222.124.35.205] on 2008/11/09 10:33:29
If you have to see a movie about the genocide in Rwanda, watch this instead:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt040006...
With Sleepy There
#2559 posted by nitin [124.168.69.91] on 2008/11/09 13:01:55
one of them is extremely powerful, the other one is pretty bland (despite some good acting).
Have You Guys Ever Seen
#2560 posted by RickyT23 [86.27.101.69] on 2008/11/09 17:41:09
"missing" with Tommy Lee Jones....
its a western. with indian folklore and stuff.
Yep
#2561 posted by nitin [124.168.69.91] on 2008/11/09 22:04:18
above average I thought.
Film
#2562 posted by Shambler [82.38.195.22] on 2008/11/15 12:16:13
Burn After Reading
Pretty good but could have been better. Indeed could have been a real classic of the genre whatever that genre is. The plot and escalating mess born out of small actions and simple mistakes is excellent and could have set the scene for a film full of gasps and laughs. However for a film relying equally on the behaviour of it's protagonists, many of the characters were weak and simply not distinctive enough nor smartly played enough to do it justice. Tilda Swinton and John Malkovitch were spot on, as was the laconic CIA "boss", but the rest never seemed to capture what they were intending to. Thus making it somewhat leaden until the plot got going and things started to get spicey enough to bring back some interest.
Shambler
#2563 posted by nitin [210.84.42.191] on 2008/11/16 00:20:26
same thoughts actually. I thought most the performances were fine, but the writing lacked bit far too often.
Burn After Reading (2008) - cant say I am all that disappointed as it turned out pretty much as I expected, a featherweight, inconsequential and occasionally funny film by the Coens where the chief concern seemed to have been to make sure everyone involved was having fun. There are a couple of genuinely hilarious scenes but, personally, I find this to be on the same level as their more unfairly mauled Intolerable Cruelty.
6.5/10
Snow Angels (2007) - bleak look at small town America from David Gordon Green that reaches some great heights at times but also comes down from there just as quickly to mediocrity far too often. The performances are strong throughout, even the usually inert Kate Beckinsale, but the film peaks about halfway through and then just peters out predictably despite plenty of scope to explore some more interesting territory.
6.5/10
Woman in the Dunes (1964) - Akira Kurosawa's The Seven Samurai has finally been toppled as my favorite Japanese film by this corker from Hiroshi Teshigahara. A plot summary will not do it justice, as most of the greatness lies in the character exploration, the setting of the mood and the absolutely amazing technical mastery. But, generally, the movie is about an entomologist who gets stranded in the sand dunes and decides to seek shelter in the nearby villages and is given shelter by a young woman who lives alone.
What follows is a mesmerising combination of a surrealistic nightmare and the harsh realities and oppressiveness of life in a sand pit, mixed with a good deal of existentialism, escape drama and carnal attraction. An extremely accomplished and very memorable piece of filmmaking.
9/10
Superman (1978) - hadnt seen it in its entirety before and now that I have, I cant say its all that much better than the unfairly maligned Superman Returns. Sure, the acting is better by Christopher Reeves, Gene Hackman and Margot Kidder but despite the long running time and admirable attempt to make a mythic epic, the characterisations of clark kent and lois lane are still pretty one dimensional. That said, it's a whole lot of fun which even a rather silly ending cant ruin.
7/10
Mr Smith Goes to Washington (1939) - I'm really beginning to warm to Capra and this is definitely one of his best. What should have been a really sentimental, over patriotic and hokey film instead comes across as genuinely charming and inspirational thanks to the performances and Capra's infusion of humour at appropriate stages. But what really makes it work is Claude Rains, an extremely underrated actor, who turns a rather difficult role into the most sympathetic character in the film.
8/10
The Shop Around the Corner (1940) - cant say there is anything really wrong with this Lubitsch comedy/drama but it just felt inconsequential. It is more of drama than a comedy (which is not what I was expecting) and whilst it works in that regard, its not exactly anything memorable in the dramatic department. Still, well made, lightweight fluff.
6/10
Lolita (1962) - not sure how exactly it was intended by Kubrick but it definitely works as a black comedy. There is some attempt at drama but the movie is just far too detached from its characters for it to make any emotional impact and also undermines many of its dramatic moments with too many sly jokes. That's not necessarily too detrimental because a lot of them are quite funny, particularly whenever Peter Sellers is involved, but anyone expecting anything serious and substantial from this will be heavily disappointed.
6.5/10
The Dead (1987) - the final film from John Huston and it's a great movie to end a great career. Adapted from James Joyce' short story, the movie is primarily a period piece set at a dinner in early twentieth century Dublin where the conversations and mood evoke different feelings in the various attendees. Huston's spare and focused style makes for a very interesting contrast to someone like Robert Altman who had a very distinct method of capturing multiple characters and conversation in an overlapping fashion. Huston's method works exceedingly well here, although he is ably helped by excellent performances and also Joyce's wonderful use of words. The last 20 minutes or so are pretty much perfect.
8/10
...
#2564 posted by starbuck [129.215.59.129] on 2008/11/16 13:41:57
Quantum of Solace
More like Quantum of BALLace, am I rite?
Wait wait, this has just come to me, the next Wallace and Gromit film better be called Quantum of Wallace. That would rock my world. This film didn't. First time I've ever seen a film and been bored during 1 a boat chase, 2 a plane chase, 3 a car chase and 4 an explosion. That's right, during this film I actually got bored DURING an explosion.
Mad Men
#2565 posted by nitin [124.168.8.233] on 2008/11/16 14:03:59
about 3 eps in so far, but hands down the best thing on tv for me at the moment.
#2566 posted by nitin [124.168.36.10] on 2008/11/20 10:30:49
The Small Back Room (1949) - interesting little film from Powell and Pressburger that is a WWII based film on the surface as it looks at the 'back room boys' who conducted military research into weapons and bombs, but is really a character drama through and through with David Farrar playing an embittered, self-loathing man who is constantly battling his own self doubts and his addiction to alcohol. The character driven parts of the film are far more successful than that part of the story focused on the investigation into mysterious booby trapped bombs dropped by the germans into England.
6.5/10
Sansho the Bailiff (1954) - another film from Kenji Mizoguchi that I like but dont really get what all the fuss is about. Sure, its well made, brilliantly shot and features an involving story but I dont quite agree that its the classic that it is widely held to be. Its message is hammered home and there's a sense of inertness about the whole thing that keeps you at a distance from all the suffering piled on to the characters. Still, this is quite an effective piece of filmmaking about a family torn apart in feudal Japan but who remain unbroken in spirit till the very end. The attention to detail is first rate as are some of the restrained scenes of off screen violence which transcend the rest of the film in their ability to make the viewer feel.
7/10
Panic in the Streets (1950) - one of the many great things about film noir is that, during its heyday, almost every director made one, resulting in a genre full of films with many different individual styles. This one was made by Elia Kazan and shares many of the strengths that he displayed in his later On the Waterfront. A terrific, tense thriller rife with great camerawork, excellent characterisations and visceral direction that paces everything to perfection.
7.5/10
Harvey (1950) - likeable farcical comedy, although some of the characters can get a bit annoying at times, with James Stewart playing an alcoholic who has a 6 ft 3 best friend that is a giant rabbit called Harvey (ie the movie Donnie Darko took some inspiration from). Of course everyone around him puts it down to his alcoholism and, to a lesser extent, childhood trauma leading to some pretty cleverly executed set pieces that are quite funny. Doesnt quite manage to maintain its zany momentum all the way through, but, paraphrasing the movie, it's pleasant if not smart.
6.5-7/10
Letter from an Unknown Woman (1948) - pretty average melodrama from Max Ophuls starring Joan Fontaine (in an extension of her Rebecca and Jane Eyre roles) as an extremely naïve young woman besotted by not so naïve musician in Vienna.
Apart from some nice camerawork, it just didn’t work for me. The characterisation and actions of Fontaine's character were just a bit too hard to believe and so was the very convenient redemption character arc for the musician character at the end.
5.5/10
Transsiberian (2008) - The term 'hitchcockian' is thrown around a bit too much these days but Brad Anderson definitely knows what it means. He demonstrated that in The Machinist and he demonstrates it here again in an entertaining train story involving an unsuspecting couple on an adventurous train trip from Beijing to Moscow.
The second half plotting leaves a bit to be desired and the pacing is also a bit uneven (the first half an hour of the movie is pure characterisation which would generally be welcome but not when it is at the complete expense of any forward momentum). But offsetting those flaws is Anderson's real grip on suspense and atmosphere and strong performances from Emily Mortimer, Woody Harrelson and Ben Kingsley.
6.5/10
The Mark of Zorro (1940) - not a great film by any means but definitely more entertaining than the Banderas & Zeta Jones version. Tyrone Power is much more charming in the Zorro role than Banderas' annoying turn and this version is also paced heaps better than the remake. There's too many one dimensional characters though for it to be anything more than just pleasant entertainment.
6/10
And Some More
#2567 posted by nitin [124.168.36.10] on 2008/11/22 01:37:28
Blazing Saddles (1974) - Apart from the original The Producers, I don’t find Mel Brooks' stuff funny. It might be the odd mixture of the clever and the crude but it generally never quite works for me at all. And this is the same, I could admire some of the joke setups but that's about it.
4.5/10
Young Frankenstein (1974) - this one is even cleverer than Blazing Saddles at times but once again I just didn’t find it funny.
4.5/10
Funny Games (2008) - Michael Haneke's original version of this was a good, if flawed, film. This remake has been criticised quite a lot for being an unnecessary shot for shot update but I don’t think that's the main problem with it.
The main problem is that the dialogue and characterisations which came across as very natural and realistic in the original simply don’t have the same effect when transplanted into an American setting (despite the best efforts of Tim Roth, Naomi Watts and Michael Pitt in the acting department). Consequently, the realistic tone and that the original movie relied so heavily on for effect is lacking and is replaced by a stilted and forced one which renders the whole experience quite perplexing.
3/10
The Fire Within (1963) - Louis Malle's bleak film about an ex-alcoholic who becomes disconnected with the world during the detox process and struggles to reconnect once 'cured'. Despite its one-note bleakness, it manages to involve the audience to a great degree and evoke sympathy for its main character through a combination of excellent acting and some very tightly controlled direction which is able to place you in the head of the main character during crucial parts of the film.
7-7.5/10
Dog Soldiers (2003) - An earlier, more low budget effort from Neil Marshall, who made the great The Descent, and although it is a reasonably effective B horror movie about werewolves in the Scottish highlands, the lack of budget is clearly constraining on the material which resorts to quick edits and darkness obscured shots too often to cover it up. Otherwise, it’s a pretty nifty little movie with some nice humour.
5.5-6/10
Double Suicide (1969) - just when you think you've seen it all, something like this comes along. Absolutely bizarre japanese film shot in the manner of a puppet show but with live actors replacing the puppets. Everything else though is as it would be in a puppetshow (eg sets utilising a lot of paper/cardboard and 'invisible' puppetmasters assisting with rearranging of props mid scene to set up the next one). It's an interesting technique especially when combined with the unique cinematography but its also very very distracting, so much so that I was completely disconnected with the story and the characters.
5/10
Sisters (1973) - is Brian DePalma the most frustrating director ever? Here's yet another movie that's pretty well made and with some very impressive sequences but once again is let down by a very substandard script (that de palma wrote). Worth watching for the first 2/3 and although the last 1/3 isnt terrible its very very disappointing in its execution.
5.5/10
The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) - probably William Wyler's best film that I have seen. Everyone involved seems to be aware of the strength of the material and so no one really tries to overplay any aspect of it which works in the movie's favour because it ends up being earnest without appearing to do so and affecting without resorting to oversentimentality. And despite being a 3 hr film, I think the script is a good example of a lean and direct screenplay that does not contain any padding or unnecessary scenes. Its also masterfully short by Greg Tolland with some great use of deep focus is key scenes.
8/10
Get Smart Season 1 - I used to really like it as a kid and although it's not quite as funny now its still surprisingly funnier than I thought it would be. Some of the spy satire stuff is hilarious.
Its also interesting watching something like this, which was obviously not intended to be watched consecutively on dvd but only once a week, and seeing how repetitive it is. Completely different to how a lot of tv is now made.
6.5/10
#2568 posted by Spirit [213.39.173.48] on 2008/11/22 22:16:11
Patlabor (1989) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt010033...
Nice! You must not be afraid of anime though, some scenes are a bit weird and the music, oh well...
The story is really great, the style too. It was kinda hard to follow for me (watched the english dub and did not understand much of the first important minutes). Recommended if you like such movies.
Is the tv series watchable? I'd like less robots for sure, heh.
#2569 posted by nitin [124.168.120.182] on 2008/12/01 14:46:52
Rocco and His Brothers (1960) - the second greatest italian film I have come across, Vicsonti's movie deals with a family from the south that moves to the industrial north and is slowly disintegrated by its different rules and necessities. It should be, but never is, a distracting and curious blend of neo realism and melodrama but Visconti handles it with very restrained and subtle direction that prevents a clash of styles. The performances across the board are excellent and the film manages to realistically show the lives of distinct people at a particular time in Italy's history and also have characters that are universally recognisable at the same time.
8-8.5/10
Kiss Me Deadly (1955) - quintessential film noir that rides on exceptional direction and scripting to cover up a routine plot and average performances. Robert Aldrich and his scriptwriter go out of their way, and with tremendous success, to make sure each shot and each character is memorable and relevant. Shame about the performances because better acting would have propelled this to sit with the greats.
Also, it is obviously something that Tarantino, Lynch and Spielberg all admire as there are direct references in at least Pulp Fiction, Lost Highway and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
7.5/10
This is England (2007) - Funny, touching but also disturbing movie set in 80's England and focusing on a particular part of the childhood of a 12 year called Shaun who, due to circumstances, becomes involved with a neo nazi group of teenagers who become his friends.
From there on, it's a bit of a rollercoaster ride as Shaun first appreciates, then is confused by and eventually doubts his new found friends and what they stand for. Shane Meadows' objective view of the topic from the point of view of an unpopular 12 yr old is a refreshing and personal take on the material that is not for everyone but well worth watching.
7-7.5/10
Mad Men Season One - Most definitely the best show (not) on tv. Set in 1960's New York and utilising the lives of advertising executives as a way of exploring the psyche, makeup and fabric of America at a time when prosperity and success masked and repressed identity and a darker world, the show is as good as any of the drama heavyweights that have come and gone in recent years.
The attention to period detail is superb, the multitude of characters very interesting and the show also benefits from a delicious strain of blink and you miss it understated humour.
8-8.5/10
Shanghai Express (1932) - probably the best of the Josef Von Sternberg and Marlene Dietrich collaborations, this is a great little movie that works equally well as a thriller and a drama. Dietrich is at her iconic best here, magnetic in every scene and every shot, and von Sternberg has a field day with a pre-code script that he brings to life with vivid imagery and precision. I personally found the very end to be a little problematic in terms of believability but everything else is of a very high standard.
7.5/10
You Cant Take it With You (1938) - the first real misfire from Capra that I have come across which apart from a few scenes is too reliant on eccentricity for its drive (in much the same way as the Coen bros can be guilty of). Most of the characters are poorly etched and the scripting, save a few great lines, is predictable both in its plotting and its tone.
5/10
Vagabond (1985) - sort of like the nihilistic european version of Into the Wild, and faring only slightly better in my book (mainly because even though the main character is a twat, she's not turned into some sort of idol like in Penn's film). Agnes Varda has a very distracting and noticeable style which disconnects you from the material at crucial stages and despite some very good acting, particularly from Sandrine Bonnaire in the title role as a female drifter in self-imposed exile, its hard to really care about what's happening. However, there are some inspired scenes, including one involving some sort of strange french town ritual that will definitely make you sit up and take notice.
5.5-6/10
The Wire
#2570 posted by nitin [210.84.56.138] on 2008/12/03 13:17:40
proper comments later but fuck this is good!
Welcome To Your New Obsession
#2571 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.248] on 2008/12/03 17:08:50
I'm Planning To Order Seasons 2-5
#2572 posted by nitin [210.84.56.138] on 2008/12/03 22:46:30
before finishing the first one :)
Låt Den Rätte Komma In
#2573 posted by megaman [92.73.84.135] on 2008/12/04 02:55:05
imdb comment: ... The best thing about this movie are probably the CGI generated cats, that feature of this movie deserves huge praise. The CGI shows that this director is capable of making really great movies but he needs to use it a lot more. I understand that they did not have enough money but I hope that the next movie will at least have 50% of the scenes with some form of CGI. That's all from me. :D
for this weird thing http://www.imdb.com/title/tt113979... It has fantastic ratings and comments, but i don't get why at all. pacing / shockers don't work at all for me, or anyone in the cinema. I couldn't really care less about the shallow characters; some of the supports were nicer, though. The 'coming of age' story is clichee at best, and the vampire stuff naturally is the same, and mostly doesn't fit into the story at all. The only purpose of the plot seems to be support of the finale - it doesn't offer anything over the course of the movie besides the occasional WTF. pictures/sound were okish, but nothing stood out, really. The shocker scenes were mostly.. laughable, because everything else was that much like a child-movie. It's basically shocker-10mins of child-story-shocker-repeat
Everyone in the cinema continued joking and laughing at the movie (though it didn't intend to be funny at all, i think).
Somehow i'd still rate it a 4/10 though. weird.
That's Probably
#2574 posted by megaman [92.73.84.135] on 2008/12/04 02:58:50
joking and laughing about the movie :)
I've Read Some Great Things About That Film
#2575 posted by nitin [210.84.56.138] on 2008/12/04 09:14:02
from usually reliable sources. Very curious about it, especially after your comments.
#2576 posted by metlslime [67.180.230.20] on 2008/12/04 10:43:40
the only thing i'd heard of it is that i should see that instead of Twilight.
Hmm
#2577 posted by megaman [92.73.103.238] on 2008/12/04 21:46:58
usually i like unusual movies, and i also like slow paced movies (25th hour is my favorite movie, and it's quite slow imho). This one MIGHT have been off to a bad start, because everyone in the cinema was constantly WTFing right from the start, but i don't know. should probably rewatch it, just that it wasn't particularly entertaining :(
25th Hour
#2578 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.22.89] on 2008/12/04 22:39:47
among my favorite movies, too. Really love the pacing and the atmosphere as well as the acting in that one.
Yeah
#2579 posted by Tronyn [24.78.41.15] on 2008/12/04 23:10:19
25th hour was great. I should watch that again.
#2580 posted by Spirit [213.39.174.42] on 2008/12/06 22:41:47
Assassination (1967)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006136...
This movie would be great if there was a plot a human mind could follow and understand. Feels like if the script was complex and meant for a book rather than a movie. (Or like a director trying to put a overly complex book into 90 minutes of film.) A shame, really.
#2581 posted by nitin [124.168.22.50] on 2008/12/07 10:04:14
The Testament of Dr Mabuse (1933) - the second in Fritz Lang's Mabuse series of films and the only one I have seen. The story is meant to continue on from the first film, at the end of which the evil genius Dr Mabuse turned insane and escaped prison by being committed, and basically concerns the investigation into a number of crimes that all seem to have the Mabuse touch.
It’s a mishmash of genres, part socio-realist observation, part thriller, part horror and part police procedural and while it does not quite fit together all that well, when it works its very very memorable. As in M, Lang uses sound exceptionally well which when combined with his expressionistic noiresque visuals, lend particular scenes a very eerie touch.
Its also easy to see why this was banned by Goebbels on initial release, references and criticism of the rise of Nazism are all over the place even if they were not necessarily intended.
7.5/10
Red River (1948) - what should have been a great film is brought down to only a good level with a ridiculous and silly ending. Till then, Howard Hawks' absorbing western is one of the best in its genre with excellent characterisations, interesting themes and tight plotting. The unravel at the end makes a joke of the 2 hr psychological buildup and puts to waste the effective performances of John Wayne and Montogemery Clift, who play a rancher and his adopted son leading a cattle drive from Texas to Missouri via the Chisholm Trail.
Still, overall, its another effective film from Hawks who proves once again that there was no genre he could not make a good film in.
7/10
Short Cuts (1993) - a very watchable 190 min from Robert Altman, but given the runtime I was expecting something a little more substantial. Tracing 22 characters through 9 of Raymond Carver's short stories, Altman mounts and weaves together a very impressive production that is impeccably acted, always interesting and with no real dead space.
But at the end of it, it all feels a little slight and unfinished with a sense that perhaps Altman took too much on and would have perhaps been better served with a more focused approach on the more interesting stories and characters.
7/10
#2582 posted by nitin [124.168.22.50] on 2008/12/09 08:45:29
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1974) - rewatch and I still cant get into the Python humour which is far too hit and miss for me. The funny bits are admittedly quite hilarious but they are surrounded by too much stuff that just isnt funny in my book. And since that's all that this is, a 90 min string of mostly unsuccessful jokes, I cant really say I enjoyed it.
4/10
Vengeance is Mine (1979) - films about serial killers are a dime a dozen these days, but few match the ambition and execution of Shohei Imamura's japanese film about Iwao Ekonizu, a sociopath on the run from japanese police for 78 days during the early 1960's. The strength of the film lies in Imamura's decision to not focus on either the motives/past of Ekonizu nor the police investigation on his trail but to simply show you the man, his actions and the crumbling society around him in a fairly observational manner and then ask whether he is all that different from everyone else.
It's an approach that has one limitation, being a distance from the characters, but when ideas are this strongly drawn and executed, that flaw is only a small distraction in an otherwise great film.
7.5-8/10
Freaks (1932) - Todd Browning's notoriously butchered film about sideshow/carnival performers is not quite as shocking today as it was back in the day, but it still contains numerous memorable moments mainly due to the casting of real people with deformities as sideshow 'freaks'. Whether it crosses the exploitation/entertainment line is debatable but as a film its above average despite its numerous flaws.
Whilst the non-professional actors lend the whole thing with a distinct air of authenticity that could never be achieved by makeup and effects, they also come across as stilted and amateur in a number of the key dialogue scenes. Still, Browning uses their presence to good effect and the climactic scene is justifiably famous as one of the great horror scenes.
6.5/10
The Wire season one - Baltimore. The drug trade. One of the greatest seasons of tv ever. It's hard to actually find words to describe this that are not understatements. If it has one flaw, and this is really searching for a fault, it's that its way too dense for casual viewing. It demands a lot of attention but pays off in ways which most films, let alone tv shows, can only dream of. The writing and characterisation are of an extremely high standard and each episode has staggering scenes of brilliance and originality. I cant wait to get to seasons 2-5.
9.5/10
Monthy Python
#2583 posted by megaman [141.26.93.242] on 2008/12/09 12:25:28
i guess you pretty much need to watch flying circus first ;)
The Meaning Of Life
#2584 posted by RickyT23 [81.132.88.108] on 2008/12/09 12:38:59
I think that is the best one. Which is just like a 2hour long flying circus.
Thats MY juniper bush!
Films.
#2585 posted by Shambler [82.38.195.22] on 2008/12/11 15:43:19
Fight Club.
Good, entertaining, interesting, dark humour and decent style. I knew the plot and premise, but it was quirkier and pacier than I expected. The idea could have been a bit more refined but I think it's pretty cool.
errr there was something else....oh yeah...
Quantum Of Solace.
Not bad, pretty entertaining. The criticisms I'd heard - lack of sexiness, lack of humour, lack of gadgets, bit too grim - were all valid, as was the all-too-common too-quick-editing syndrome, but there was enough Bondness and enough class in some areas (the opera in particular) to make it worthwhile. Quite like Daniel Craig as the new Bond, his pretty-boy-blue-eye icy coldness suits the role.
Edit.
#2586 posted by Shambler [82.38.195.22] on 2008/12/11 15:45:16
Both those reviews are a bit vague in conclusion. I'd put FC as a properly good film and QOS as an okay one.
Fight Club Is About As Good As Snatch
#2587 posted by RickyT23 [81.132.88.108] on 2008/12/11 15:59:42
for me... Which is good - the best infact!
QoS havent seen. I liked Casino Royale tho, but was only inclined to watch it the one time.
Shambler:
#2588 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2008/12/11 21:39:15
fight club seems like one of those essential 1990s movies to me, so it's suprising to hear about someone just watching it now for the first time :)
Metl:
#2589 posted by Shambler [82.38.195.22] on 2008/12/12 00:05:18
Yes fair point. I really don't watch films though, well pretty rarely. Maybe a bit more these days, mostly for the social side. There's a lot I haven't seen, from ET through to Heat...
More into drum'n'bass. And Quake.
#2590 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2008/12/12 05:35:08
the fuck is Quake?
Wire Watchers
#2591 posted by nitin [210.84.27.209] on 2008/12/14 06:56:00
would you say all five seasons are worth watching?
Wire
#2592 posted by Preach [81.152.235.178] on 2008/12/14 11:35:52
Yeah, for sure. The show changes a bit for each season, but all of them deliver a great story, and highlight a new problem. I'd probably rank season 4 as my personal favourite, and season 5 climbs down a bit from that, but all of them are good.
Definitely
#2593 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.5] on 2008/12/15 04:21:53
You are probably watching the wealest of the bunch, the beginning of the 2nd season, and I meant to warn you the xhange in scenerio means there is a lot of exposition, but it really worth sticking with, esp. as you see Stringer Bell's character get fleshed out for some very sardonic plot developments that occur in season three. Yeah, season four which concentrates on the juveniles and schools system is my favorite as well. Season three has some pretty good story arcs with a new character Cutty, and a project called Hamsterdam, a new rival and more ruthless gang (which btw, is so much based on an actual gang the writers didn't even bother to change the name of the chief), there is a lot to savor in the up coming episodes.
My favorite character in the entire series, Chris Paltrow, what do you think Preach?
Honorable mention, Bugs, Bodie, and the politician Clyde Davis. Points off for picking the most politically correct choice (who played his hand like a fool in season five). ;)
;) <--- Means Just Kidding
#2594 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.5] on 2008/12/15 04:24:24
if it turns out Omar is your favorite.
Cool
#2595 posted by nitin [210.84.27.209] on 2008/12/15 09:53:45
will make my through all of it then.
also, review later but Slumdog Millionaire is a cracker of a film, if a little contrived.
Oops
#2596 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.55] on 2008/12/15 17:45:34
By Bugs, I mean Bubbles. His huge saucer eyes make me tend to think of the wrong nickname for him. He has a really good story arc in season five with rock icon Steve Earl playing the part of his confidant and friend.
Mr Little Ain't My Fav, But...
#2597 posted by Preach [81.152.235.178] on 2008/12/15 21:35:53
...Omar did get all the good lines. Chris was good, but I'd have to go with Bubs by a nose, he had the strongest "big story" and a fantastic performance to bring the character alive.
O' Horten
#2598 posted by megaman [92.73.88.92] on 2008/12/17 00:31:08
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt096277...
wow, this could be my new favorite movie. Extremely slow, focusing on the beauty in the eye of the beholder, the beauty in the world around you. A bit on the surrealistic side. The only grief i have so far is with the ending, and i have to rewatch the whole thing to see if it's actually that awesome :D
It doesn't seem to have a story at all ;)
German sync sucked a bit, too. And all the stupid people in the cinema who didn't get the movie.
O' Horten
#2599 posted by megaman [92.73.88.92] on 2008/12/17 00:31:11
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt096277...
wow, this could be my new favorite movie. Extremely slow, focusing on the beauty in the eye of the beholder, the beauty in the world around you. A bit on the surrealistic side. The only grief i have so far is with the ending, and i have to rewatch the whole thing to see if it's actually that awesome :D
It doesn't seem to have a story at all ;)
German sync sucked a bit, too. And all the stupid people in the cinema who didn't get the movie.
Duh
#2600 posted by megaman [92.73.88.92] on 2008/12/17 00:31:21
Oh Yes
#2601 posted by megaman [92.73.88.92] on 2008/12/17 00:32:38
i wasn't really satfisfied with the music :(
#2602 posted by nitin [210.84.27.209] on 2008/12/17 08:43:06
You Only Live Once (1934) - extremely average early crime drama from Fritz Lang and starring Henry Fonda and Sylvia Sidney. The characterisations are weak and the plotting and pacing leave a lot to be desired. Lang seems to be directing on autopilot with only the occasional inspired flourish in an otherwise dull film.
5/10
Savage Grace (2008) - there is some strong acting, particularly from the ever reliable Julianne Moore, but Tom Kalin's movie about the true story of the dysfunctional, incestuous relationship between heiress Barbabra Daly Baekeland and her gay son Antony is a real mess narratively.
It tries to cover too much ground in an effort to show the relationship at various stages of the individuals' lives and ends up focusing far too much on particular events rather than the characters themselves. And when you have characters that behave as selfishly and lamentably as those in this film, the lack of focus on them only amplifies the audience's disconnection towards them.
The Importance of Being Earnest (1952) - I like Oscar Wilde but I'm not quite sure what to make of Anthony Asquith's incredibly stagey and artificial film version of arguably his most famous work. The technique is obviously very deliberate as it suits the content of Wilde's material down to a tee, but somewhere along the line the superficial stuffiness of the whole thing just started to bother me.
5/10
Le Jour se Leve (1939) - another one of the Marcel Carne/Jean Gabin collaborations which falters a bit towards the end but is otherwise quite a competent and atmospheric film with an intricate narrative and well etched and explored characters. There's also some neat little details in the plotting which are very cleverly implemented.
7/10
Slumdog Millionaire (2008) - Danny Boyle's latest is a contrived but excellently executed piece of work, aided tremendously by its very impressive visual style and soundtrack. Boyle also manages to capture India from the inside, which is not an easy thing to do, and also incorporates aspects of bollywood without having them clash with the film's more western elements. The script could have used a bit more polish, particularly some of the dialogue, but on the whole this is extremely high quality entertainment.
7.5-8/10
Oliver Twist
#2603 posted by bamby [91.152.87.169] on 2008/12/17 16:42:14
BBC miniseries misfire.
Too lightly made. Too "humorous". Overacted. Too quick. The makeup looks so fake. And then some acts as if they don't care what is happening (even when dying).
The new Miss Marple has somewhat similar problems. Always when something important there is a comical music highlighting it, and it destroys the small semblance of feeling and anticipation that has been built despite of the candy environments.
What's gone wrong? Fingersmith was excellent compared to Oliver Twist.
Yet Dickens is the genre's granddaddy, it should be done with utmost care.
I haven't read the book btw but I already have some predictions having seen the first episode, based on how much the work has been copied - my standard BBC historical miniseries stands.
I Guess Sleep Deprivation Shows
#2604 posted by bamby [91.152.87.169] on 2008/12/17 16:43:49
And the verbs are missing.
"my standard BBC historical miniseries plot analysis stands" it should be.
#2605 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.122] on 2008/12/25 11:53:10
You Don't Mess with the Zohan (2008)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt096014...
Watched that yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed it. Super silly and well executed humor and a nice story about Isreal and Palastine. I don't get why it's rated so low, but hey, it's the internet/imdb. Disco disco!
Re: 2603
#2606 posted by Tronyn [70.76.34.81] on 2008/12/25 12:03:36
Never saw, ever - that's right - (not to you but to whoever makes reputations aka his) - the reason for dicken's acclaim.
He's nothing. He's 19thC bourgeoisie wuth a conscience. Woohoo.
Hate to be so contemptuous but seems justifiable here.
Those who dive into 19thC should, in my view, forget the language and start hardcore into the relevance (and every damn film will be with subtitles, rather than actors speaking in "old" english accents) - and that relevance can leave "dickens" behind and launch straight into dostoevsky.
pukes over those middle class spewers.
Well
#2607 posted by Tronyn [70.76.34.81] on 2008/12/25 12:09:20
maybe what I meant was
at the end of the day I may be as banal, horrible, white-walled, carpeted, clean, middle-class-guilty, sad, white... etc... kid rock is the devil's slut, and I have many ways of brain disintegration lined up
Dickens Rocks
#2608 posted by nitin [124.168.71.158] on 2008/12/25 13:38:43
I'll defend him, although I'll also defend dostoevsky.
btw, just saw the new Bourned film. FFS, if you're going to spend so much money on action scenes, why edit them into oblivion?
#2609 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/01/07 03:34:48
FUN FILM FACT OF THE DAY - 7th January 2009
_________________________
I am the only person in history to have watched all 6 American Pie movies. Even Eugene Levy refused to watch either American Pie 6 - Beta House or what many consider the nadir of the series, American Pie 5 - The Naked Mile.
Full reviews of all films to follow, with detailed deconstruction of the many themes explored and the powerful yet nuanced symbolism used.
Geez
#2610 posted by nitin [124.168.67.114] on 2009/01/07 06:39:15
there's six of them :)
#2611 posted by Willem [75.177.185.17] on 2009/01/07 11:25:37
Haha, that's my response too. There are 6 American Pie movies?!
Heh
#2612 posted by nitin [124.168.67.114] on 2009/01/07 13:08:27
just checked imdb to see if there's a 7th and couldnt find anything, but eugene levy is starring in Night at the Museum 2 : Battle of the Smithsonian :)
Starbuck
#2613 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.34] on 2009/01/07 20:03:47
I salute your decision to plunge in those shallow depths.
BTW, I have a request, I caught about fifteen minutes of American Pie: Band Camp on TBS a while back, and I recall the female lead was a major little hot tamale. If you could report back on the
existence/absence of any nude scenes with her (and preferably with the minute/seconds) I would be much obliged. She may not be Helen, but even B movie, 3rd string celebrity skin provides a cheap thrill.
HeadThump
#2614 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/01/07 23:00:06
sorry, no dice. Band Camp is definitely the American Pie with the least boobs in it. She's a hottie though, you're right there.
Starbuck
#2615 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.239] on 2009/01/08 18:13:54
That nearly breaks my heart. I really hate it when a pretty girl gets discovered before she has done the proper amount of work in the trenches of soft porn b-movies. One of my great disappointments was with the actress who played Candy on Two and a Half Men, Alan's second wife. One of the most vivacious red heads I have ever seen. I looked up her profile on IMDB only to find out Two&1/2 Men was her first gig straight out of college. [Capt Kirk shakes fist, screams to the sky] Charlie Sheen!!!!!!
I Was Just Wondering If....
#2616 posted by Shambler [82.47.201.98] on 2009/01/13 00:13:28
....nitin had seen this, and hoping he had:
Slumdog Millionaire (2008) - Danny Boyle's latest is a contrived but excellently executed piece of work, aided tremendously by its very impressive visual style and soundtrack. Boyle also manages to capture India from the inside, which is not an easy thing to do, and also incorporates aspects of bollywood without having them clash with the film's more western elements. The script could have used a bit more polish, particularly some of the dialogue, but on the whole this is extremely high quality entertainment.
7.5-8/10
I tend to concur, particularly with the positives of that review. Just got semi-dragged out to see it and was rather well entertained. I did find the ending rather soppy (not just the very final bit) and I also thought that some of the cinematography could have been improved. Although the latter is partly because there was some noticably good cinematography, a high point in several places but not all.
Definitely agree with the excellent soundtrack, and managing to add a contemporary feel to an Indian film without it clashing horribly (a bit like fusion cooking - easy to make a pointless mess, but great when it actually works). I also liked the subtle portrayal of modernisation, and the increasingly converging storyline (although perhaps that's what you find contrived).
Good stuff.
P.S.
#2617 posted by Shambler [82.47.201.98] on 2009/01/13 00:17:36
7.5-8 / 10
I make that approx 7.75 / 10
Nitin you need to start marking out of 40 then ;)
Heh
#2618 posted by nitin [124.168.33.29] on 2009/01/13 09:05:17
8's a truly great film for me and this was almost there but not quite. But it was better than 'excellent' which is usually my 7.5 :)
The ending was very bollywood, although it didnt grate me as much as your regular bollywood film so that was a plus IMHO.
ps : saw heaps over holidays, reviews in bits and pieces soon.
"Big Stan"
#2619 posted by [194.65.24.228] on 2009/01/13 17:55:45
one of the best humor film i saw i last years
#2620 posted by mwh [118.93.53.13] on 2009/01/20 11:27:30
Australia
Oh my God it's long. It has some good bits and some bad bits and so on but it's really so very long. How do people do this to themselves? This could have been a really pretty impressive 1.5 hour film, but instead Baz got hung up on the idea of an epic and we got this instead. Worth the watch though.
Children Of Men (2006)
#2621 posted by DaZ [80.41.130.104] on 2009/01/23 10:09:36
So I raided my mates dvd collection a few days ago and took everything I hadn't seen without discrimination :)
This film is bleak, eerily realistic and quite touching in places. If you haven't heard of the name its about a near future (20 years) world in which every woman on the planet has become infertile and mankind is in its last days, and has in general gone completely down the shitter. its set in England and definitely feels like a British movie, as people are actually English and not the "American English" we all laugh at in Hollywood films these days.
Don't want to give away much about the story so I'll stop there, but its definitely a worth while watch.
Special mention goes to some very clever camera work and a few scenes where I wondered how they did that without cutting to a different shot. Also, this film is very unforgiving, brutal, and dirty in its delivery and setting. It almost felt like a post-apoc film set *just before the bombs went off* :)
This has not been the most coherent review I agree, but I am tired and really can't be arsed to spell long words right now or generally think of things to say, apart from this totally useless ending message, which is getting rather long now so I suppose I will stop.
That Was Beautiful
#2622 posted by RickyT23 [81.157.18.236] on 2009/01/23 10:12:24
I thought it was a good film, I liked the part where they all stop shooting because they hear the baby. :)
Ricky
#2623 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.2.178] on 2009/01/23 11:27:41
I agree that that was a very touching scene. It was very well done and could easily have been over the top, but wasn't. All in all a solid film with good performances, esp. from Clive Owen. The beginning reminded me of half life 2 for some reason ;-)
#2624 posted by Willem [71.70.208.255] on 2009/01/23 11:36:32
Oh yeah, I get a huge Half-Life 2 vibe from Children of Men. Very cool movie.
#2625 posted by mwh [118.93.53.13] on 2009/01/23 12:26:25
Babel
A bit like Australia, good in many ways, but just a bit over the top and up itself. I think Inarritu should have a few cream pies thrown at him and be given a spliff or something.
Australia
#2626 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.2.178] on 2009/01/23 12:32:51
was not good in any way in my opinion. I sat in the theatre staring at the screen in disbelief about how bad that movies was. There was nothing good about it, the story was dull and boring, the acting was bad, the child character was annoying as hell, even the nature shots looked like they were digitally created or altered... and it was way too long. I thought that the movie should have ended after the second act and kept wondering why it continued. Oh, and don't get me started on the dialogue! Oh god...
Don't get me wrong, I don't mind romantic movies if they are well done, but this one was a complete disaster. I wish I could erase the memories. And I wasn't the only one who thought so, the people in the theatre started laughing at the corny dialogue after a while, too!
I Liked Babel
#2627 posted by nitin [124.168.98.102] on 2009/01/23 13:00:39
yes its pretentious but Innaritu is one of my current favorites.
Children of Men is classy too, got 3 films from good mexican directors around the same time (Pans Labyrinth being the other one).
Hmm
#2628 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/01/23 13:09:53
Note for Brits; Simon Pegg's newest will make you weep tears of blood (I'm fairly sure it's bad if you not from the UK too, just it's not quite as painful a sell out...)
Why The Hell Didn't I Think Of That...
#2629 posted by DaZ [80.41.130.104] on 2009/01/23 13:23:37
Oh yeah, I get a huge Half-Life 2 vibe from Children of Men. Very cool movie.
Totally, I guess I really am tired :P
Nonentity
#2630 posted by Spirit [80.171.29.26] on 2009/01/23 14:14:03
I found the last two below par. But I don't even remember what How to Lose Friends & Alienate People was about (not even after looking at imdb, I don't remember any scene from it) so that makes it even worse that the fat boy movie.
I watched Black Books ( http://www.imdb.com/title/tt026215... ) recently. Pretty nice series with "acting" actors instead of "cinema realism". Ups and downs, but I liked it. And every encounter with those other people like Pegg or Jessica Hynes was great fun.
Hmm
#2631 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/01/23 15:09:08
Black Books is classic, if somewhat variable (as you say). The episode with Bailey as a cop is actual genius.
If you like that tho I'd suggest checking out Dylan Moran - Monster for some of his stand up (I'm unsure if he's released any other stand up, I've seen him on stuff doing routines but not another complete set)
And HLF&AP's plot was mainly a dodgy romcom. That and a metatextual plot line about Pegg's character selling out...
Oh, also, Big Train. Sketch show featuring a lot of the better British comedians of that generation...
Ahh Big Train
#2632 posted by DaZ [80.41.130.104] on 2009/01/23 18:26:03
featuring the sketch where I actually thought I might die of laughter...
I refer ofc to the scene where the dads son learning to ride his 1st bike bursts into flames for absolutely no reason, complete and utter hilarity!
Seen About 40 Or So Movies Over The Holidays :)
#2633 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/01/24 10:33:18
here's comments on some of those :
Quantum of Solace (2008) - the latest Bourned film is pretty much one big chase film edited into oblivion. It zips along at breakneck pace but with such clumsily edited action scenes that you would be hard pressed to know what's going on a lot of the time. The opening car chase is a pretty good example, you see explosions, you hear metal scraping, but all you remember is one big motion blur. And apart from all the average handled action, there's not a whole lot going on. Daniel Craig is wasted as is pretty much the rest of the cast.
5.5/10
Vicki Cristina Barcelona (2008) - this is supposed to be a return to form for Woody Allen but I personally found it to be a far cry from his great 70's/80's films. There's a couple of decent scenes between Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz but overall this is very averagely written and has that same annoying and noticeable trait that was evident in Cassandra's Dream with the actors performing as if they were in a stage rehearsal. The unnecessary voiceover is also a distraction, especially when it is spelling the obvious in a monotonous voice.
5.5/10
Pushing Daisies Season 1 - The production design in this series is pretty impressive and creative (think Tim Burton in Edward Scissorhands and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory mode) but I didn't like the actual show all that much. Most of that has to do with the irritatingly glib and 'hip' dialogue that all the characters use which I found quite forced and distracting. The premise itself, a piemaker who assists a private detective in solving murders by using his gift to bring the dead back to life, is interesting but is never explored with much depth. Instead the show seems to be content with just defining every character with distinct quirks as a way of characterisation.
6/10
Ali : Fear Eats the Soul (1974) - Fassbinder's loose adaptation of Douglas Sirk's All That Heaven Allows in a modern day german setting (well 70's germany anyway) details the vicious response from family and community to the marriage of a lonely, upper class white widow to a much younger black Moroccan immigrant worker. The themes from the american original are expanded to include racism and class differences and Fassbinder directs with a less melodramatic and more intense approach than Sirk. The result is a stunning film which has a brooding, angry atmosphere and very strong performances which leave quite a mark. The title comes from a quote from the main character, where he tries to explain himself in broken german.
On a side note, Todd Haynes' Far From Heaven was a mix of this and All that Heaven Allows.
8/10
Angels with Dirty Faces (1938) - solid if predictable 30's gangster film by Michael Curtiz with James Cagney once again supreme and running away with the honors. He gets some memorable scenes and lines and makes the most of them.
7/10
Away from Her (2006) - Interesting if flawed piece of work from actor turned director Sarah Polley. The movie revolves around an elderly couple's relationship when the wife starts developing and suffering from alzheimer's disease. The scripting is not always right in tone but, when it works, there are some devastating scenes which are aided in their power by some remarkable acting from Julie Christie and Gordon Pinsent. Fascinating if you are at all interested in the concept of memory (which I am).
7/10
The Awful Truth (1937) - fairly average screwball comedy that's not quite zany or funny enough. Cary Grant and Irene Dunne make a good pairing but don't really have the best material to work with. The supporting characters are also uninteresting.
5.5/10
#2634 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/01/24 16:37:16
I think you hit the nail on the head with Pushing Daisies. I loved the first episode or two, but beyond that, the quirkiness is just too much. It all gets a little forced, and there isn't much depth. Shame really, because as you say the production design is fantastic, and there's a lot to like.
Starbuck
#2635 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/01/25 01:37:39
it was almost as if they came up with idea, thought it was cool, but never quite knew how to make a full season of tv out of it. So it was like watching episode 1 over and over again with different production design.
Big Train
#2636 posted by Spirit [213.39.158.103] on 2009/01/25 01:44:11
is great, thanks a lot for the recommendation. I also grabbed a Dylan Morgan DVD and remembered I wanted to get the Asylum rips. Upcoming British humour overkill.
That sketch about wanking in the office I saw somewhen before, haha. And that boy was hilarious indeed, Bal. :D
Some More
#2637 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/01/25 01:46:01
Heroes Season 2 - hmm, I'd heard the biggest problem with this season was a sense of incompleteness due to the writer's strike. That was not my main concern, I think it wrapped up reasonably okay despite definitely feeling a bit rushed. The main problem for me was the alarming number of logic gaps that kept popping up and getting bigger as the season progressed. There's definitely some good points and the show isnt afraid to take a few risks by trying out some interesting ideas, but for every good idea, there's either an appalling plot hole or a conveniently contrived solution. As for all the new characters, it did feel like an unnecessarily desperate attempt to freshen up the show even though some of them were interesting.
6/10
The Big Clock (1948) - one of the best of all film noirs which combines great suspense with humour. Ray Milland and Charles Laughton star as employee and employer at a crime magazine with Milland ending up in charge of an investigation on himself for a murder he did not commit. John Farrow has the blessing of a cracker of a script which is meticulous in its detailing and characterisation. Elsa Lanchester has a hilarious supporting role as a prominent painter, providing most of the film's best lines.
8-8.5/10
Boomerang (1947) - early Elia Kazan film noir which is fairly straightforward and simplistic but ends up being above average thanks to Kazan's direction.
6.5/10
Born to Kill (1947) - none of the characters in Robert Wise's completely amoral film noir are likeable, and this hurts the film overall, but almost all are interesting due to their jovial corruptibility. And the character of murdered party girl Laury Palmer was surely an inspiration for Twin Peaks' Laura Palmer, sharing more than just a similarity in name. Well made overall, and with some choice dialogue, but you can only like a movie so much where all the characters are unlikeable.
6.5/10
Casque D'or (1952) - Jacques Becker's belle epoque period romance is definitely a very elegant film, full of charisma and memorable scenes even if the plotting and characterisations are fairly predictable. Becker's graceful treatment of the material makes it a joy to watch though, even if you know exactly how it's all going to turn out.
7.5/10
Closely Watched Trains (1966) - Jiri Menzel's coming of age story about a boy working at a train station in german occupied czechoslovakia during WWII is a strange deadpan comedy that never quite manages the frequent shifts in tone from comedy to drama. Most of the humour is observational and ironic with the boy oblivious to the war and the resistance that surrounds him and instead more interested in having as much sex as possible. Certain scenes work brilliantly individually but as a whole I found it to be a bit of a narrative mess, especially the abrupt and left field ending.
6/10
The Color of Money (1986) - Martin Scorsese's sequel to the great Paul Newman film, The Hustler, is not in the same league as the characters and their relationships are nowhere near as interesting, but it's still an enjoyable and entertaining film. Newman is fantastic again in his reprisal of the role of Fast Eddie Felson, who is now retired and considered to be past his prime. He contrasts well with Tom Cruise's cocky, talented and young character whom he attempts to take under his wing. Scorsese directs in a restrained fashion except when he wants you to get caught up in the giddiness of the action, at which point his swirling camera works beautifully to capture the excitement his characters are feeling.
7/10
Sieben Tage Sonntag
#2638 posted by megaman [92.73.102.77] on 2009/01/28 00:21:09
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt048488...
Despite the positive imdb comments: pass. at all cost ;)
Das Leben Der Anderen (The Lives Of Others)
#2639 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/01/28 05:49:46
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt040509...
Absolutely stunning. Brilliant story, wonderfully acting, heart warmingly passionate against the stark depiction of 1980s East Germany. Highly recommend watching.
Nonentity
#2640 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/01/28 08:22:19
agree, and it makes good viewing with the more recent The Counterfeiters.
Hmm
#2641 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/01/28 11:11:15
Haven't seen that one. Just IMDB'd it and looks good. One for movie night next week I think, will let you know what I think (not that I only watch movies once a week, it's just I watch bleak social commentary once a week with set friends ;)
Hehe
#2642 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/01/28 11:31:20
some of my friends found Lives of Others on another level, I found both to be pretty damn impressive.
Continuing On
#2643 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/01/31 07:18:51
Day of Wrath (1943) - absolutely brilliant film set in a Danish village in 1625 where an old woman is accused of being a witch and condemned to be burnt at the stake. She seeks help from Anne, a young woman married to a much older pastor, whose mother she aided when she was accused of being the same. What follows is an ambiguously fascinating movie that deals with everything from societal, religious and familial oppression to self delusion without resorting to cheap melodrama or convenient explanations. Shot in a stunningly expressionistic manner by Carl Theodor Dreyer, it is also one of the most strikingly looking movies you'll come across.
8.5-9/10
Death and the Maiden (1994) - excellent film from Polanski that is an adaptation of a play by a Chilean exile who escaped the regime of Augusto Pinochet. The movie is set in Chile over the course of one night and centres on only three characters, rivetingly performed by Sigourney Weaver, Ben Kingsley and Stuart Wilson. It would be unfair to reveal plot details save to say that the subject matter is dark and grim but expertly handled by Polanski and the actors who relish the stylized dialogue that is retained from the play. Kingsley and Weaver in particular are remarkable, with Kingsley unforgettable in his final monologue in the penultimate scene of the movie.
7.5/10
Dishonored (1931) - fairly average collaboration between Josef von Sternberg and Marlene Dietrich that is not at the same level as some of their other films. Sternberg seems to be directing on autopilot with none of his audacious and elaborate set pieces present and Dietrcih does her best but cannot rescue what is a pretty mundane script.
5.5/10
The Duellists (1977) - out of his early career work Alien and Blade Runner seem to get most of the recognition, and deservedly so, but Ridley Scott's debut film is also quite a little gem. Based on Joseph Conrad's short story about two french army lieutenants during the Napoleonic Wars whose quarrel over an initially minor incident turns into a bitter, long-drawn out duelling struggle over the following fifteen years, Scott's film is one of the best looking movies you will come across with perfect framing and lighting in pretty much every scene. Despite the episodic structure and lack of any real plot or characterisation, the minimalist style and exposition work really well and actually add a tense feel to all the duels as its hard to know where the movie is going next.
7.5/10
House of Strangers (1949) - solid noirish family drama by Joseph L Mankiewicz with Edward G Robinson playing a stereotypical italian patriarch who is oblivious to the burgeoning rifts developing between his sons. The ending is weak but Robinson is terrific and makes it a worthwhile watch until then.
7/10
How Green was my Valley (1941) - John Ford's soppy but effective film is too long by about 20 min but otherwise a solidly made and beautifully shot movie that manipulates the audience well enough with its melodramatic story of an irish family's struggles in a small mining town.
7/10
The Ice Storm (1997) - Ang Lee's movie is set before and after thanksgiving in 70's Connecticut, leading up to a threatening ice storm, and revolving around two neighbouring families having issues with either the political, social or sexual climate of the time. It’s a fairly cold film (no joke intended) with fairly impenetrable characters and with a cathartic ending that just didn’t quite work for me. But the acting is top notch and some of it is quite funny.
6.5-7/10
Agree,
#2644 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.157] on 2009/01/31 18:28:48
on the Duelist. A very well made movie that tends to get lost in the shuffle of Scott's other work. I would have rated it a bit higher though.
HT
#2645 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/02/01 00:44:32
7.5 is about 4 stars on my scale, which is what I think it deserves since it had a few flaws.
So
#2646 posted by Shambler [82.47.201.98] on 2009/02/01 00:53:29
(1/(7.5 / 10))*4 = 5.333333
...in the grand Nitin condition your 4 stars is on a scale of 0 - 5.333333 stars :)
P.S. Cheers guys for the heads up about Children Of Men, sounds worthwhile.
Of Course
#2647 posted by nitin [210.84.37.143] on 2009/02/01 01:05:26
who rates stuff out of 5?
4 Stars Sounds Right
#2648 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.79] on 2009/02/01 02:31:00
7.5 is just 1.5 above 6 which fits neatly into Garrison Keillor's famous joke about mediocrity so I was being a bit quibbly I guess.
#2649 posted by nitin [124.168.44.247] on 2009/02/02 09:18:52
M Hulot's Holiday (1953) - apart from Playtime, I cant seem to get into Jacques Tati's movies. It basically comes down to me not really caring for slapstick humour, no matter how cleverly staged it is.
4/10
The Man from Laramie (1955) - quite liking these Anthony Mann/James Stewart westerns. This one's not quite at the same level as Winchester 73 but it continues Mann's clever and interesting inversion of Stewart's established Hollywood image. Great use of landscape to reflect characters' feelings and although it follows a familiar pattern, its always involving.
7-7.5/10
Millennium Mambo (2001) - slow, initially interesting but ultimately uninvolving portrait of a young girl's life in modern day Taiwan, Hou Hsiao-Hsien's movie seems to repeat itself ad nauseum after the first 30-40 min. The acting is good, Shu Qi carries the movie pretty comfortably, but the whole thing becomes rather mundane for most of the second half.
5/10
Missing (1982) - Excellent film by Costa-Gavras based on the disappearance of US journalist Charles Horman who disappeared in the violent aftermath of the US backed Chilean coup of 1973 that deposed President Salvador Allende. Ironically, the name of the country is never once mentioned in the film nor is the US' culpability explicitly stated as Costa-Gavra merely uses the political undercurrents to focus on the personal side of the story, the search in vain for Horman by his father and wife. In those two roles, Jack Lemmon and Sissy Spacek are absolutely superb in a masterclass of restrained acting. The minimalism extends to the depiction by Costa-Gavras of the siege, which is generally shown only in the background of most shots and never really taking centre stage or overtaking the plight of the characters.
7.5/10
Orpheus (1949) - Jean Cocteau's superb transplantation of the ancient greek myth to post-war Paris is a dreamy, surreal film with great use of rather simple special effects to portray the world of Death. Maria Casares also makes for a tortured, enigmatic version of Death and Cocteau's additional subplot involving Death and Orpheus adds another layer of intrigue to the original story. Jean Marais as Orpheus is a bit of a weak link in the ensemble but apart from that, this is classy stuff all round.
7.5/10
Our Man in Havana (1959) - While I found The Tailor of Panama to be a decent film, the Carol Reed movie of effectively the same story is far more entertaining, mainly thanks to a wittier and funnier script from Graham Greene. Alex Guinness chimes in with a suitably deadpan performance as a british national selling vacuum cleaners in Havana and recruited by MI6 to provide inside information in exchange for lots of money, which he then proceeds to fabricate in amusing fashion. Carol Reed utilises the same camera moves as in The Third Man and although they don’t work quite as well this time around, the quality of the script and performances more than make up for it.
7-7.5/10
People Will Talk (1951) - should be awkward but isnt mix of socio-drama and comedy with Cary Grant playing a doctor with non-conventional methods. Little bit heavy handed at times and the dialogue by Mankiewicz is over literate at times, but its interesting enough and Cary Grant demonstrates that he is quite possibly the smoothest man ever.
7-7.5/10
And A Bit Of Fun
#2650 posted by nitin [124.168.44.247] on 2009/02/02 09:22:33
Foreign movie posters :
http://www.cracked.com/article_169...
Damnit
#2651 posted by megaman [92.73.106.52] on 2009/02/02 13:21:26
Nitin, you need a site where you can post your movie reviews. *thinks*
Nitin:
#2652 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2009/02/02 23:58:42
do you watch movies alphabetically?
No
#2653 posted by nitin [124.168.44.247] on 2009/02/03 10:04:40
but I review alphabetically :)
Mammoth
#2654 posted by bear [94.255.216.216] on 2009/02/04 20:46:13
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt103804...
Good poetic invitation to reflect upon being here right now...
#2655 posted by nitin [210.84.39.242] on 2009/02/05 13:18:09
The Pledge (2001) - wasn’t too keen on seeing anything by Sean Penn after really disliking Into the Wild but gave this a go simply on the strength of the cast (Nicholson, Eckhart, Mirren, Vanessa Redgrave, Patricia Clarkson).
And the acting does really save what is otherwise an interesting but flawed film, too weighed down by its own self importance in places (Penn really needs to stop thinking he is Terence Malick and leave out all the nature shots) but doing a fair job of charting a retired detective's spiral into mental illness when he becomes too involved with the disappearance of a young girl and pledges to find what happened to her mother. The plotting also has a number of questionable gaps but when it sticks to characterisation, its pretty involving stuff.
6.5/10
Police (1985) - fairly gripping police procedural by Maurice Pialat and starring Gerard Depardieu before he starred in every french film ever released. Most of the movie's success comes from the scripting by Catherine Breillat which spends an awful lot of time on small details and interactions, and with great effect, than plotting. Depardieu and Sophie Marceau also share good chemistry together, with Pialat just content on filming their awkward relationship in an objective, loose style.
7/10
La Ronde (1950) - graceful and elegant would be the best words to describe this and simply because of Max Ophuls' swirling camerawork that is just a pleasure to watch. In a definite case of style over substance, but also one where it doesn’t really matter, Ophuls creates a beautiful looking film as his cast go through connected vignettes about relationships in different social classes in 1800's Vienna.
7/10
Samurai Spy (1965) - Masashiri Shinoda's extremely confusing samurai film has more plot twists than are possible in a whole season of tv, let alone a 100 min film. Things seem to change so rapidly that its very hard to keep track of what's going on for most of the film and to whom. On top of all that, Shinoda seems intent on filming in an overly distracting arty style that just adds to the confusion. And the fight scenes are poorly shot, obscuring the characters and choreography in most shots (although when this happens in the climactic duel, it does work).
5/10
Shanghai Triad (1995) - Probably the worst Zhang Yimou film I've come across, which is saying a lot considering how disappointing House of Flying Daggers ultimately was.
Essentially, it's a seven day tale told through the eyes of a young child who moves from the country to 40's Shanghai and starts working for the Shanghai underworld, his job consisting of being an assistant to the boss' mistress. Yimou never feels comfortable with the material, especially with the presentation of the story through the child protagonists' view. There are a handful of good scenes, mainly involving the great Gong Li but this is definitely the least of all their collaborations. Even the visuals, which are normally a guarantee in Yimou's hands, are not all that impressive.
4/10
Sword of the Beast (1965) - This is more like it, Hideo Gosha strips the samurai film to its bare essentials with a moody, blistering movie full of great characters and tremendous fight scenes. Well worth a watch.
7-7.5/10
The Talk of the Town (1942) - not quite right blend of socio-drama and comedy from George Stevens that nevertheless works due to the rapport of Cary Grant and Jean Arthur. When it gets into message mode, its nowhere near as successful as when it stays in comedy mode, getting overly heavy handed and preachy. Still, a reasonable film overall for the lighter moments.
6.5/10
Towelhead
#2656 posted by Drew [98.124.1.130] on 2009/02/09 06:27:44
Melodramatic. Good acting. impressively hard to sit through some times. Tied up too easily.
7
Hated Allan Balls other film.
#2657 posted by nitin [124.168.125.45] on 2009/02/09 09:10:22
and the last of the holiday viewing :
La Terra Trema (1948) - Luchino Visconti's overlong, episodic, predictable but remarkably well made film set in Aci Trezzi, a small fishing village on the east coast of Sicily focuses on the trials and tribulations of the Valastros family in an environment of exploitation of working class fishermen. Unlike his later, more grander and operatic films, this one is strictly in the neo-realist fashion, with non-professional actors who are actual locals playing all the characters.
Whilst the story and character arcs are fairly predictable and cliched, the manner in which the film is made lends it an authenticity that is undeniably involving. There is also a distracting voiceover but I believe this was inserted for the benefit of the italian public since most of the film is in a rural sicilian dialect.
7.5/10
This Sporting Life (1963) - Richard Harris in one of the greatest performances of all time in what is also one of the best british films of all time. Lindsay Anderson's searing depiction of rugby player Frank Machin, whose real life is not as successful as his sporting life, mixes a formidable exploration of working class angst and the ups and downs of fame and celebrity with a tragic love story.
Its probably a bit unfair to make the comparison since Harris is his own man, but his performance definitely reminded me a lot of Brando from Streetcar and Waterfront. Almost matching him is Rachel Roberts as Machin's widowed landlady and love interest, with the scenes with both of them on screen being a showcase of great acting. But Anderson's contribution isnt just his work with the actors, the movie being a visual tour de force in pretty much every scene of the elliptical narrative that is connected together with impressive transitional editing.
8.5/10
To Die For (1995) - not quite black enough black comedy by Gus Van Sant that would have been better served by going more over the top with its material. I also found Van Sant's mixture of styles in the presentation of the movie way too distracting and unnecessary. But, Nicole Kidman and Joaquin Phoenix do put in very good performances and some of the potshots at tabloid celebrity are decent enough.
6-6.5/10
Twentieth Century (1934) - early screwball comedy from Howard Hawks but it still manages to match the farcical levels of both His Girl Friday and Bringing up Baby. Like both those two films, I found that it couldnt quite successfully sustain its over the top tone for the entirety of the movie but when it works, its very very funny. Carole Lombard and John Barrymore put in pitch perfect performances as an aspiring actress and her egomaniacal Boradway producer, respectively, trading some very clever dialogue at breakneck pace.
7/10
I Vitelloni (1953) - good early Fellini following the life of five thirty somethings in a small italian town, all of whom are likeable and distinguishable characters, albeit cliched. There's just something there about this period of Fellini's career that manages to engage you with his filmmaking, unlike his later more bloated and self conscious movies. Nino Rota once again provides an excellent score to the proceedings, making the whole thing quite enjoyable.
7/10
Vivre Sa Vie (1962) - probably the most accessible of all of Godard's movies, the movie is essentially a 12 segment collation of a young parisian woman's descent into prostitution. Anna Karina is very touching in the main role, and she had to be because Godard lingers on her face for extensive periods of time during many of the segments. Despite the subject matter, the movie's tone is fairly playful and self referential, the lightness of touch actually working in its favour until the misjudged ending which lacked the sense of gravitas it needed to work.
7/10
The Piano Teacher (2001) - well, theres sexual repression, theres extreme sexual repression and then there's this. The main character in Michael Haneke's extremely disturbing film is a more than repressed piano teacher who also has sadomasochistic tendencies. This is very uncomfortable viewing, Haneke doesnt pull back during any of the scenes depicting his character's behaviour but more importantly, it's just very hard to connect with the main character.
Isabelle Huppert, in a very brave performance, does manage to make you empathise with her character but its not enough given the extreme nature of the character. The ending, which should leave you disgusted, barely registers a reaction at all due to this problem.
5/10
Fuck
#2658 posted by nitin [124.168.125.45] on 2009/02/09 09:10:48
damn tags...
The Piano Teacher
#2659 posted by bambuz [91.152.89.203] on 2009/02/09 11:20:41
IMO it's a sort of continuity of the logical progression of the trend with Central European movies.
Fucked up stuff supposed to shake the viewer doesn't mean a movie is worth watching.
I don't remember the ending anymore even.
Hopefully the trend goes more toward Mike Leigh, have you seen Happy Go Lucky, guys? It has its annoyances and stupidities, but as a whole it's a good piece. Telling of quite ordinary people for once, yet being interesting and very lifelike, capturing some of the life's magic.
Comedies \o/
#2660 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.250] on 2009/02/09 11:49:26
I watched the Cheech and Chong movies recently, no idea why I did not encounter them much earlier. They are two dopeheads going through .. uhm ... dope adventures. The first one was great fun, but the others very bland and stupid (except for ET with his extra testicle, I laughed so hard).
Yesterday I watched Loaded Weapon 1 ( http://www.imdb.com/title/tt010765... ). Great fun. Generally very plain and stupid humour, but every 5 minutes or so a laugh-blast. It is like a persiflage of movies like Hot Shots or the Naked Gun. Sometimes it seems the actor's fun playing comes through. The scene where Samuel L. Jackson imitated that ugly bunny face girl for example. If you got a rather quirky sense of humour and are not a pretentious culture nazi, try it.
#2661 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/02/09 13:14:15
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Really really bad, and it never ends. What the fuck? Similar to Forrest Gump but they took Tom Hanks and replaced him with a plank of wood. Also, where is Gary Sinise?
Yeah
#2662 posted by Nynort [24.78.143.88] on 2009/02/09 19:27:33
I agree, I didn't enjoy it at all. It meandered, and took an extremely long time to get nowhere. I compare to to Aronofsky's The Fountain, another really long, pretentious, experimental love film from a talented director, except that The Fountain was far more interesting.
...
#2663 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/02/11 16:48:37
Slumdog Millionaire
I was just happy not to be watching Benjamin Button. Also, this film is excellent. The plot is contrived, sure, but when seen as a modern day fable, that isn't necessarily a negative. It like it was dragged towards a modern pop-culture setting though. Also, dialogue is a little rough, and the end a little rushed. Those were the bad points, the rest is almost universally great.
#2664 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/02/11 17:02:15
also, yeah Nynort, I see where you're coming from, but while they're both undoubtedly pretentious, the Fountain is interesting and mysterious (to me at least) and truly experimental, while Benjamin Button is just an emotional-fast-food, pseudo-intellectual oscar-fishing bucket of cocks, devoid of all merit.
Also, the Fountain looks pretty, and I like pretty pictures.
Sex Drive
I am something of a shit-teen-movie connoisseur as you may know, so when I say this is the greatest shit-teen-movie of the last few years, I hope you appreciate the weight of my sentiment. Us shit-teen-movie fans are simple beasts, as Hunter S. Thompson once said: "Too weird to live, and too rare to die", so I'll keep it simple:
Hilarity: Very high
Boob Count: Fairly Low
Stifler Count: Zero, but they got a guy that looks just like him and got him to play the same character.
#2665 posted by Spirit [213.39.203.162] on 2009/02/12 20:55:56
Madagascar 2: Boring, stupid, boring, clichee crap. Mild chuckle at best. Too much singing, crappy music. Might be fun for kids, but there are many so much better movies (for them).
Recent Watches
#2666 posted by DaZ [80.41.151.213] on 2009/02/18 14:08:36
Crimson Tide : Enjoyed this very much, lots of suspense and felt very realistic (No idea if it is actually realistic). Good acting all round I thought.
U-571 : Yeah so I have a submarine fetish at the moment :P Historical inaccuracies aside I thought this was as good as crimson tide, but with weaker acting on the whole. Its always good to see Bill Paxton in a movie, and I was rooting for him to start shouting and flailing his arms around (game over man, game over!) but sadly he is quite subdued here.
The day the earth stood still : Seriously WTF, this remake was shit. Reeves basicly puts on his Neo acting profile but doesn't do anything other than talk. I wanted to throttle the kid by the end, and the female lead was quite forgettable but certainly better than the rest. I've not seen the original of this film so I cannot compare...
Rocknrolla : I heard this was Guy Ritchies return to greatness but overall I would call it OK. There are some moments of greatness (All involving Russians) but not enough to save the film from mediocrity imo.
Daz
#2667 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.192] on 2009/02/18 18:05:46
Recent Watches
#2666 posted by DaZ [80.41.151.213] on 2009/02/18 14:08:36
Crimson Tide : Enjoyed this very much, lots of suspense and felt very realistic (No idea if it is actually realistic). Good acting all round I thought.
Well, not really. I had the pleasure of watching this one with my brother who was a petty officer in the U S Navy for a decade and he was one of the guys responsible for one half of the code and pull pin that executes a launch. I got to enjoy</i. reaching over every ten minutes and telling me what was wrong with the current scene.
Two facts stay with me.
1) The petty officers of his position are armed at all times. When a senior officer gives them a command that breaks the nuclear protocol, the petty office is obliged under law to kill that officer.
2) Whenever a submarine loses communication for any length of time, they are obligated to return immediately to the port of origin and not execute previous orders. So if a Hackman did what he did, he would be coming back in freezer storage not as a court marshal.
Heh
#2668 posted by DaZ [80.41.171.148] on 2009/02/18 18:08:23
I did wonder about that, it did seem a bit strange that they would even consider launching nuclear missiles on possibly incomplete or cancelled orders.
Made for a good bit of suspense tho =)
Had Sean Connery In It Tho
#2669 posted by RickyT23 [82.3.70.106] on 2009/02/18 18:26:43
nuff said
Oh No Fuck That Was Hunt For Red October
#2670 posted by RickyT23 [82.3.70.106] on 2009/02/18 18:27:45
forget I said anything
It's Too Soon
#2671 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.226] on 2009/02/18 19:16:19
Rocknrolla : I heard this was Guy Ritchies return to greatness but overall I would call it OK. There are some moments of greatness (All involving Russians) but not enough to save the film from mediocrity imo.
Until the shit that is the essence of Madonna is cleansed from his soul expect mediocrity, and that is assuming she hasn't entirely sucked it dry and shat it our of her mummified ass.
Oh, And Guess What Movie
#2672 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.226] on 2009/02/18 19:17:35
I treated myself to on my birthday after that last quote.
Cast Away?
#2673 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/02/18 21:27:51
I picked the icon that looked most like a shit.
BubbaHotep!
#2674 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.226] on 2009/02/18 21:35:05
That movie is strangely Bergmanesque, btw. Not to be pretentious about it to justify watching it because you all know I have taste for shit, but it really does remind me of both Wild Strawberries and the Seventh Seal.
Cast Away?
Not a big Hanks fan here. I mean, I don't hate him, I'm just indifferent to his acting. Now Sinise as Lt Dan, fuckyeah, that was the only thing that made Gump remotely tolerable.
Starbuck
#2675 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.226] on 2009/02/18 21:37:24
If you haven't seen BubbaHotep, it is about a mummy who sucks people's souls from their ass orifices and then shits them out which destroys the souls for all eternity. Which is pretty much Madonna's MO.
Headthump
#2676 posted by nitin [124.168.65.101] on 2009/02/19 13:12:34
think Starbuck meant Swept Away.
and Daz, as far as submarine movies go, you cant go past Das Boot.
Haha
#2677 posted by DaZ [80.41.171.148] on 2009/02/19 14:58:36
But I am not gonna sit and watch a film for..what was it? 9 Hours? Is there some sort of sensible cut I could have a look at though? :P
#2678 posted by Spirit [80.171.29.243] on 2009/02/19 15:45:38
What! You, DaZ Boot, have not seen the movie yet?
Seriously not? My world collapses. And there is no icon to express my feelings.
The director's cut is 3 1/2 hours or something, just pause and return the next day.
If It Makes You Feel Any Better
#2679 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.195] on 2009/02/19 17:46:54
Spirit,
Petty Office Tom loves that movie, and he went apeshit happy when he recognized the villain in Beerfest (he played the First Officer).
Ah Yes
#2680 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/02/19 18:35:34
what nitin said, I meant swept away. I actually watched a good 20 mins of it too. Oh and I saw Audition last night, that is not the ideal date movie.
Daz
#2681 posted by nitin [124.168.65.101] on 2009/02/19 21:54:46
like spirit said, the dir's cut is about 3.5 hrs.
Audition?
#2682 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2009/02/19 22:48:01
is an ideal last date movie
#2138
#2683 posted by Spirit [80.171.28.45] on 2009/02/22 13:31:38
Just watched Hoodwinked again (4th time I think). I still love it and highly recommend it. The animations are very crude at times, but overall it is miles ahead of the mainstream animation movies for me (especially after watching Madagascar 2 recently...).
A shame it is such an underdog.
Hmm
#2684 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/02/23 22:56:48
Just watched Hoodwinked. For a kids CG movie it's badass.
As you say, the actual graphics are a bit dated (on par with the early CG stuff like Toy Story, mebe a bit better), but the writing/acting/depth is a lot, lot better than majority of animated films.
#2685 posted by nitin [210.84.52.201] on 2009/02/26 08:04:13
30 Rock Season 2 - even more uneven than the first series but the good episodes are worth wading through the all the mediocre ones. The show seems to have only one setup for a joke (someone makes a comment to the effect of "that can never happen" and then it does) which also makes it routinely predictable but luckily the performers are good enough to still milk the joke that you are expecting. But when it call comes together, as it does in about 3 episodes in this season, it can be very very funny.
6.5/10 (just)
Entourage Season 4 - still entertaining but there is definitely a feeling of lazy familiarity through the whole season, particularly with the storylines of Vince and Eric.
6.5/10
Lost Season 4 - probably the most consistent show on tv, it continues to toy with interesting ideas even though it keep stretching out its main story a little too unnecessarily and keeps adding more and more new characters for no particular reason. The use of flash forwards added a fresh dimension though and was used quite well too instead of just being a gimmick, hinting at the overall arc of the series.
7/10
Life Season 1 - it's pretty tragic when good characters get stuck in mediocre shows but that's Life I guess. Damian Lewis plays a cop who is released from prison and rejoins the force after being incarcerated for 12 years for a crime he did not commit. There is an overarching story about his investigation into who framed him but the general structure of the show is standalone police procedural episodes.
Unfortunately, despite good characterisations and performances, the standalone investigation episodes are just plain weak. To be fair, the longer the season goes, the better it gets but the early episodes are just plain bad. By the end of the season though, I was looking forward to more so overall I guess its worth a watch.
6-6.5/10
Rachel Getting Married (2008) - a little bit self indulgent at times but otherwise a fairly fine film from Jonathan Demme. I'm not quite sure the Dogme camerawork was all that necessary, and its particularly distracting in the first fifteen minutes or so, but eventually the strength of the script and performances win out over its detractions. Anne Hathaway is excellent in her role as a recovering addict out of rehab to attend her sister's wedding and causing all sorts of family tensions to come out during her visit.
There is no real plot throughout the movie, its basically a covering of the day before and of the wedding in a home video fashion but the script from Jenny Lumet (Sidney Lumet's daughter) is filled with great moments of character interaction that nicely manage to interchange between black comedy and serious drama. Look out for a hilarious scene involving a dish loading competition.
7-7.5/10
He He
#2686 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.35] on 2009/02/26 19:14:15
it keep stretching out its main story a little too unnecessarily and keeps adding more and more new characters for no particular reason.
They are just restocking the Red Shirts, for more mayhem and bodies blowing up fun!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redsh...
I didn't care much for Faraday (still too much a cryptic bastard) and Charlotte (easy on the eyes though, but not nearly so much as Juliette) as new characters, but Miles and the one played by Jeff Fahey are great. Last week, Fahey's character had a great quip that ended that show. Also the new antagonist Kimmi filled his villainy roll with gusto, his Black Water tattoo, nice touch.
While last season had some strong episodes, the Sayid, Desmond and Ben centric ones come to mind, the strongest episode in my mind still remains the mind blowing 3rd season finally.
It is still doing strong this season with a solid and interesting episode last night that had the rare quality in this show of answering more questions than it left you to ask (like is Ben really a villain. Why, YES, YES, YES, how could you have ever doubted it!).
#2687 posted by nitin [210.84.52.201] on 2009/02/28 00:12:07
Hellboy 2 : The Golden Army (2008) - really enjoyed this, heaps better than the first one. It's everything a popcorn blockbuster should be : exciting, funny and imaginative. Every frame is filled with some very creative detail and the pacing is perfect too. I think The Hobbit is in good hands.
7.5-8/10
Aguirre the Wrath of God (1972) - not sure the film itself is really all that great but you have to marvel at Werner Herzog's sheer audacity in taking a film crew to the Andes to shoot his story about a group of spanish conquistadors trying to find the city of El Dorado in the amazonian jungle. The film definitely is a posterchild for location shooting, the sheer lushness and overwhelming nature of the Amazon just could not be achieved artificially. The lack of any real structure or focus hurts the movie though as although there is some attempt at displaying a madness in the Aguirre character (ala Heart of Darkness), its pretty hard to care as most the effort seems to have been expended on just shooting the damn thing.
6-6.5/10
Alexander Nevsky (1938) - Sergei Eisenstein's movie about the conflict between the Teutonic Knights and the russian people of Novgrod has obviously served as a template for every single epic film depicting a battle between two armies but it lacks audience connection with its characters. The movie is proudly patriotic, so maybe you have to be russian to connect, but I found it difficult to sympathise with any particular character.
Technically though, it's a marvel. The 30 min battle sequence at the end is extremely impressive (and has been copied as recently as the LOTR battle scenes), powered on by Dimitri Prokofiev's memorable and stirring score.
6/10
Centre Stage (1992) - fairly interesting biopic of the tragic life of China's first famous movie actress, silent film star Ruan Lingyu. For a biopic, the structure is quite unconventional, with the narrative of the main events in Ruan's life broken up with production talks between the director and the stars and also interviews of witnesses who knew Ruan.
Its quite slow, the pacing very glacial in parts, and it takes a while to get into as the movie assumes some familiarity with events and characters but Maggie Cheung is mesmerising in the main role and keeps you interested throughout.
7-7.5/10
Clash by Night (1952) - decent if unremarkable noirish melodrama from Fritz Lang. The first half is particularly strong, with some very strong atmosphere and dialogue. The second half loses some of the edge and becomes fairly predictable but its worth a watch overall.
6-6.5/10
Changeling (2008) - Decent if overlong and disjointed film from Eastwood. Jolie is excellent, much more restrained than she could have been and better for it, and the movie works well within each of its three interconnected stories but struggles a bit to bring them all together.
7/10
#2688 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/03 11:08:44
The Cooler (2003) - William H Macy plays a 'cooler', an unlucky individual whose presence is used to end the good luck streaks at Alec Baldwin's casino. But when he meets his 'lady luck' in Maria Bello, things start to go a little wrong.
Finely acted but there's something not quite right about Wayne Kramer's movie, most noticeable the tone which veers from fantasy to romantic comedy to film noir without entirely gelling.
4/10
Le Deuxieme Souffle (1966) - definitely overlong but this is another stunner from Jean Pierre Melville. The plotting is familiar, as are the characters, but Melville once again manages to make his crime/heist thriller incredibly fresh with some brilliantly executed sequences that turn the mundane into the riveting
7.5/10
Early Summer (1951) - the second film in Yasujiro Ozu's unofficial Noriko trilogy and it sits comfortably in between Late Spring and Tokyo Story in terms of quality. Setsuko Hara is again outstanding as an independent woman trying to make her presence felt in post-war tokyo and Ozu manages to create some very touching scenes between her and her family members.
7.5/10
Five Graves to Cairo (1943) - nice, tense little WWII flavoured thriller from Billy Wilder which, although highly implausible, displays admirable skill in the creation and maintenance of suspense. The script has a reasonable amount of the customary Wilder spark, this time mainly through characterisations rather than dialogue but it’s the top notch direction throughout that keeps you interested.
7-7.5/10
Pineapple Express (2008) - quite funny for the first half, theres some pretty inspired stuff actually, but the second half is just plain stupid. It tries to go all Hot Fuzz at the end and fails miserably. Its also too long, but that seems to be an Apatow 'feature' generally.
5.5/10
#2689 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/05 12:41:18
and some more :
Fury (1936) - above average socio-drama from Fritz Lang with Spencer Tracy playing a man who becomes a target of a lynch mob after being falsely charged with a crime. The characters and themes are too simplistic but Lang does a reasonable job in his set piece scenes to not let those detraction get too much in the way.
6/10
The Grifters (1990) - rewatch and I am still not quite sure why I don’t really like this. It has interesting characters and some very fine acting from Annette Benning and Anjelica Huston but Stephen Frears' film about three different con artists feels oddly paced and only seems to have good individual scenes and never quite gels as a whole for me.
5-5.5/10
Gun Crazy (1949) - effectively another variation on the Bonnie and Clyde story and while it is nowhere near the same league as Arthurn Penn's classic or even Nicholas Ray's excellent They Live by Night, its still fairly entertaining stuff thanks to its brisk pace and some very innovative direction in key scenes. So while the plotting is fairly predictable, its presented in quite a fresh manner.
7/10
I Know Where I'm Going (1945) - another strong film from Powell and Pressubrger with Wendy Hiller playing a young, independent woman who travels to the Scottish isles to get married to a rich industrialist and ends up becoming unsure of her own ambitions along the way.
The location shooting is absolutely incredible as is an amazing mid movie sequence involving a whirlpool which completely upstages all the effects that Pirates of the Carribean 3 mustered up in a somewhat similar sequence. But what gives it its true power is the script which contains natural, unforced dialogue and some beautiful characterisation.
7.5/10
The Incredible Hulk (2008) - pretty solid entertainment till the ridiculously stupid and badly misjudged climax which is just plain silly and way too long. Until then, its quite well made if disposable entertainment with well staged action sequences and good pacing.
6.5/10
Hulk
#2690 posted by RickyT23 [86.27.184.30] on 2009/03/05 14:07:31
Yippee - a modern action movie with (OMG) a small amount of character development! :)
I thought they had given up on such things ("Naah - character development is for pussies!")
Wouldnt Go That Far
#2691 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/05 14:39:42
iron man and TDK handled that aspect better. But yes, it does have some which is a rarity these days anyway.
Watchmen
#2692 posted by mwh [125.236.193.95] on 2009/03/06 05:17:58
I liked it. I was forcefully lent the comic a few days before it opened and had read most of it by the time I saw the movie -- and it's amazingly faithful to the source material. It's basically "the incredibles" for grownups :)
I Look Forward To Watchmen...
#2693 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2009/03/06 05:36:32
but wasn't The Incredibles the Incredibles for grown-ups?
Not Holding Much Hope For Watchmen
#2694 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/06 06:39:36
given 300 but I'd like to be surprised. Might watch it next week.
Yeah
#2695 posted by Nynort [24.78.143.88] on 2009/03/06 11:58:00
watchmen looks good, but then, the trailer for 300 made it look awesome, and it was terrible.
The Incredibles...
#2696 posted by the silent [82.185.144.141] on 2009/03/06 14:31:36
...is a clever WATCHMEN ripoff.
This flick here, I think will be the Superhero movie I'll hate most.
Poor Zack has alredy done an ugly enough job in turning a wonderfully dry tale of pride&power(300) in a syrupy melodramatic nonsense.
I think it's about time he gives up comics movies for good and moves on a field that suits better his talents.
Like flipping burgers.
I'm dead scared of what he may have done to one of the greatest GNs of all time...
#2697 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2009/03/06 15:50:37
General consensus among hardcore Watchmen lovers around the office is that the movie rocks. Just FYI.
I'm Always Up For A Nice Surprise...
#2698 posted by the silent [82.185.144.141] on 2009/03/06 16:25:07
...I hope everything turns out well...
But, from the screens and trailers around the net, it seems to me that ol' Zack did it again...
I got a bad vibe about the characters having even half the depth of their paper orginals...
A fit and muscular Nite Owl, for example, gives away a lot about how misrepresented he has been...
I'll be happy to change my mind, though...
#2699 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2009/03/06 16:35:11
I guess. I don't really know the original book myself but those who I know who do, loved the movie. They even loved the ending and say it was changed for the better.
You seem extremely negative on the whole thing and are probably going to not like it out of spite or something, but hopefully you'll be surprised.
Oh, Well...
#2700 posted by the silent [82.185.144.141] on 2009/03/06 16:51:39
...yes, I guess I'm extremely negative on a whole lot of things, lately, and I think you're right.
But I will try to look at it with the best disposition.
As for the book... Well, I suggest you give it a look. If you love superhero comics, even slightly, you're really missing something. I somehow envy all those who still don't know it.
I'd like to go on with an angry rant about From Hell, but I think the old boring man inside me has said enough for today!!!
I'll go watch the Watchmen(so we finally found Who Watches them, we do!) on Wednesday. We'll see.
#2701 posted by Spirit [213.39.223.75] on 2009/03/06 17:09:37
If you already feel so negative about it, why are you even watching it? Why not simply keep the images and fantasy you have of the comics?
Good Point.
#2702 posted by the silent [82.185.144.141] on 2009/03/06 17:34:06
And, maybe I really don't know...
Because lately I'm buried at work, and when I'm not in the office, I'm home working?
It's nice to have a night out, every now and then.
Because a lot of friends want to go see it with me?
It's fun to argue upon a very useless matter with someone as nerd as you...
Do I think it will ruin my view of the Comic Book?
Nah, impossible... I read it every year or so and it never fails to impress me. I learned to keep movies and comics in separate drawers of my brain. No matter how hard they try. They're simply 2 very different media formats, and it takes a very good artist(be it a director or a writer) to merge them functionally... Better than the ones that usually have a go at it...
In the end, if I don't like it, it'll end up there with the other stuff I watched and did not like... And they sure are not all Comic based movies.
And, mind you, I'm not saying it will necessarily suck as a movie, but it may suck bad as an adaptation of a very complex and multi-layered novel.
Benjamin Button (SPOILERS)
#2703 posted by bambuz [91.152.89.203] on 2009/03/07 00:24:10
If you act like a sheep, she comes back after going on a fucking tour of the world and you'll get together and have a happy life.
Ok yeah whatever.
Otherwise it had its moments.
"They're Simply 2 Very Different Media Formats"
#2704 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/07 01:26:38
shouldnt you factor that in though?
The LOTR films are great but as adaptations of the books, they're not so great. Heaps of stuff is omitted/changed/modified but luckily mainly for the betterment of having a movie instead of fetishistic translation.
From Hell isnt a great film, but its a pretty good one, even though its a poor adaptation of the actual novel.
But I do tend to agree that, from the trailers, Watchmen looks more like what V for Vendetta turned out like rather than any of the above.
Still, plan to see it next week. I'd be happy if they only get Rorshach right.
Sure. And I Do.
#2705 posted by the silent [79.37.207.231] on 2009/03/07 11:10:58
In fact:
"I'm not saying it will necessarily suck as a movie, but it may suck bad as an adaptation of a very complex and multi-layered novel"
Your observation about LOTR is right.
I wouldn't agree about From Hell being a good film though,IMO, it's a bit of a mish mash of ideas from the GN (very few) and standard Hollywood fare. I did not like this one.
From what I read above, you're much more competent and informed than me about cinema, so that must be taken into account.
V for Vendetta, yes, it was pretty good, and I'd be happy if W turns out like it. Probably it will.
A person from another forum brought up an aspect of this kind of operation that I think must be considered
"The "too faithful" aspect in WATCHMEN for me were a lot of places where actors and cameras moved in an overtly contrived manner to "land" on iconic images from the book, and instances where dialogue that should never have been spoken out loud was transferred from the page verbatim."
This has been, from what I saw, a common trend in later comic based productions, and I can see a certain logic behind it, but only if done with good measure.
Rorschach, well, I totally agree with you.
A very good comic book artist, that maybe you're familiar with, John Byrne, said on his forum on this very subject:
"WATCHMEN is considered a literal translation? Rorshach is about the only
character who looks like himself!"
So I guess we can rest assured about that one.
Hm, Not Used To Seeing This Flap After I've Seen The Movie!
#2706 posted by mwh [118.93.53.6] on 2009/03/07 12:54:27
Not used to NZ getting movies before the US...
Went to see it again tonight, still liked it :) If you pretend it was an original work and forget about the novel or do a shot-by-shot comparison of the novel and the film, either way heck, it's nice to have a superhero movie that's so deeply ambiguous and without it degenerating into giant robots hitting each other (I'm looking at you, Iron Man).
Go watch.
#2707 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/03/09 16:38:13
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist
Nick and Norah's Infinite Shitfest. I want to love you Michael Cera, why must you make it so difficult? At least you finally signed on for the Arrested Development movie, hopefully that will have jokes and/or a plot.
Confess!
#2708 posted by megaman [92.73.92.66] on 2009/03/09 16:54:13
you secretely already love him and make love to him every night in your mind.
Yawn
#2709 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/03/09 17:20:07
I quiver before your tedious attempted burn. Ok, sometimes I might dream of Gob, occasionally Tobias (in the daddy loves leather outfit), but never have I imagined a passionate night of love with George Michael in the frozen banana stand. Never.
Starbuck
#2710 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/09 21:20:31
I hope you never wake up from those dreams wondering where the lighter fluid came from :)
#2711 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/10 13:30:47
Jab We Met (2007) - above average bollywood film that is fairly easy to sit through but pretty forgettable. All the best bits are taken from better films and are offset by some really cringe worthy ones, especially in the second half. Two leads have reasonable chemistry.
5.5/10
Kill! (1968) - based on the same source as Akira Kurosawa's Sanjuro but you would be pretty hard pressed to know that when watching Kihachi Ochamoto's spaghetti western influenced film. Sanjuro is the better movie overall but this is plain fun throughout its running time. All the lifts from Sergio Leone's westerns are used well, right down to the Ennio Morricone-esque score, and the action scenes are as visceral as those in Ochamoto's Sword of Doom.
7/10
Mad Detective (2007) - Detective Bun has a gift, he can see people's 'inner personalities'. His gift is also his curse, and with that curse comes his madness which isolates him from his friends and colleagues. It might sound familiar to pretty much every detective thriller made in recent years but what sets Johnnie To's movie apart is the confident storytelling with which he approaches his material. The style used to convey Bun's gift is novel and unique, and to give it away would be an injustice to To's expertise, but it makes for a fascinating little thriller despite the mundane central plot.
7-7.5/10
Midnight (1939) - pretty funny screwball comedy written by Billy Wilder and with Claudette Colbert, Mary Astor, Don Ameche and John Barrymore. The script is a little uneven but even when the writing is not upto scratch, the performers are resulting in a pleasant and occasionally hilarious movie.
6.5-7/10
Mr Deeds Goes to Town (1936) - above average effort from Capra with the dramatic bits really coming across as too corny. But the leads are good and the movie works reasonably well when not taking itself too seriously.
6/10
And Completing The Backlog
#2712 posted by nitin [124.168.19.246] on 2009/03/11 11:38:42
The Night of the Iguana (1964) - pretty good version of one of Tennessee Williams' lesser known plays directed by John Huston and with Richard Burton, Deborah Kerr and Ava Gardner.
The first half is the best with some vicious humour, which Burton clearly relishes in dispensing, and some nice byplay between the various characters. The second half which has a more redemptive and serious tone is not quite as good, lacking conviction for the most part despite good acting.
6.5/10
No Way Out (1950) - solid, noirish, racially charged thriller/drama by Joseph L Mankiewicz with Richard Widmark and Sidney Poitier putting in good performances and with some cracker scenes that don’t hold back. The main problem is the pacing which is all over the place but the reaosnably good writing and acting overcome it for the most part.
6.5/10
Before the Reovlution (1964) - extremely casual and indifferent in the way it presents its characters and themes, actually narratively it’s a bit of a mess. But Bernardo Bertolucci is more interested in the marriage of imagery and sound and this is one extremely stylish film.
Combining one of Ennio Morricone's best scores with some amazing camerawork Bertolucci manages to readily involve you with the plight of his characters, without admittedly ever really managing to communicate what is driving them.
But this is as close to visual grace as you are going to find and is worth watching for that alone.
7/10
Ridicule (1996) - decent and quite clever french period film set in the 18th century at the decadent court of Versailles where social status can rise and fall based on a person's ability to dish out witty insults and avoid ridicule themselves. The plot centers around a young aristocrat wanting to see the king and finding out that it requires more than just goodwill. He's of course taught in the ways of upper class and the movie follows the regular path of most underdog narratives. But the script is genuinely sharp and witty and quite a pleasure to see performed, even if it achieves that at the expense of character involvement. Patrice Leconte has always been a very good visual director and this is also quite a nice looking film.
6.5-7/10
Samurai Rebellion (1967) - one of the greatest japanese films of all time and probably only matched by the (very different) The Seven Samurai when it comes to samurai films.
Its pretty much perfect in all aspects and unfolds its tragic story beautifully with a noticeable but not overbearing critique of Edo period Japan. Like The Seven Samurai, it has absolutely no dead space with every scene adding to either character or plot or both.
Masaki Kobayashi gets great performances from his cast, including Toshiro Mifune, and his command of the high quality material at his disposal is fantastic.
8.5-9/10
Stage Fright (1950) - minor but still entertaining Hitchcock that is really let down by an ending that has more holes in it the more you think about it. Until then, it’s a deft mix of humour and light suspense that never reaches any great heights but is very watchable.
6/10
Let the Right one In (2008) - one of the best films of last year, this Swedish film is a very interesting and different take on the vampire mythology. It avoids most of the cliches of the vampire genre, probably because it really is more of a story about two lonely children who find comfort in each other.
Those expecting constant action will probably be disppointed, although the set pieces are still stunningly staged, but if you are willing to put up with a slightly slow pace it rewards you with a touching and dark relationship between its young protagonists.
7.5-8/10
Watchmen/ltroi *SEMI SPOILERS*
#2713 posted by Drew [66.79.231.129] on 2009/03/15 04:18:30
I'm a watchmen fan *comic - NOT GN!(pedantic)* and I thought it was ... decent? The ending was an improvement in my mind, and it certainly made sense since the tie-in stories had to be cut due to length etc. Violence seemed to take center stage in some ways. It was one area where the movie kind of 'expanded' on the comic book in a way that seemed more sensationalistic than faithful. Especially in the rorshach psych profile section where they changed elements which made the scene more intimately graphic.
It's just one of those situations where the creators want to be faithful to the comic, but there are always iteneraries with regards to what will get the most attention. This is a visually faithful movie, but it feels as if it has less soul and a less intimate understanding of itself.
Oh, and LTROI is fucking amazing, love it even if some scenes are goofy instead of 'scary' since that's not what this movie is really about at its heart at all.
Drew...
#2714 posted by the silent [79.43.56.225] on 2009/03/15 13:16:23
....I assume you're familiar with Byrnerobotics?
#2715 posted by Spirit [213.39.186.180] on 2009/03/15 14:13:39
I picked up IT Crowd lately and damn what a great show. Just watched S02E01, haha.
Uh...
#2716 posted by Drew [66.79.231.129] on 2009/03/16 03:05:52
no. why?
Because...
#2717 posted by the silent [79.30.42.198] on 2009/03/16 07:51:23
...of an ever heated discussion over there on GN/Comics issue!
http://www.byrnerobotics.com/forum...
Oh!
#2718 posted by Drew [66.79.231.129] on 2009/03/16 14:26:56
Yeah, I mean I'm not a hard core comics fan, but thats always been a pet peeve.
it's like calling porn 'erotica' or 'adult literature'. it is what it is, fuck!
Gospel.
#2719 posted by the silent [79.30.42.198] on 2009/03/16 14:43:43
.
I'm Not Really Bothered
#2720 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.57] on 2009/03/16 16:52:39
By either Graphic Novel, or comic book. I just don't find the word 'novel' to be that high fallutin', after all Harlequin romances are novels. It is just a means to delineate format.
#2721 posted by Spirit [213.39.169.126] on 2009/03/16 20:08:10
IT Crowd season 3 is bollocks. 2 was great, 1 was nice.
Sophieeee!
#2722 posted by megaman [92.72.8.121] on 2009/03/17 00:42:20
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt032963...
A refreshing excursion away from the steaming pile of shit german movies usually are ;-) Touching, disturbing, raising questions.
#2723 posted by nitin [203.217.90.195] on 2009/03/17 08:32:12
The Spy Who Came in From the Cold (1965) - forget Bond, forget Bourne, this is probably the best spy film going around. It forgoes action for plot and character and is heaps better for it. Having John Le Carre's novel as a base was probably a big help too because it feels and looks authentic and realistic as far as the details go. Richard Burton is fantastic as the craggy veteran who thinks he has one last chance at glory and Martin Ritt and cinematographer Oswald Morris use black and white very very effectively in creating a gritty world where there is always someone watching someone else.
8/10
Cross of Iron (1977) - pretty decent WWII film from Peckinpah which is more interesting than most because the main group of characters are members of the german army around the time of the german retreat from the Soviet Union. This choice gives it an interesting, if superficial, depth because it asks you to sympathise with enemy soldiers who are not too dissimilar in their behaviour than the soldiers of most american based war films. James Coburn is fantastic as Steiner, the cynical and bitter infantry platoon leader constantly at loggerheads with Maximillian Schell's Stransky, a prussian aristocrat who is his superior and only interested in obtaining the cross of iron.
The movie is severely disjointed and comes to a halt on more than one occasion, but there is some extremely good dialogue in it as well as some very memorable scenes. Peckinpah also uses his patented slow-mo technique brilliantly during the action sequences which are very well staged.
6.5-7/10
High Plains Drifter (1973) - impressive gothic western by and starring Clint Eastwood that has a questionable variation on the revenge theme but is well made enough that matters of taste can be easily overlooked.
7/10
The Roaring Twenties (1939) - another stellar 30s gangster film with James Cagney, and probably his best along with the later White Heat. As the name suggests, most of the movie centres around the climate of prohibition era america and director Raoul Walsh works in some nice social commentary without being too heavy handed about it and without getting in the way of what is really a cracking crime film. Cagney is great once again and his scenes with Gladys George and Bogart are especially impressive.
7.5/10
The Story of Qiu Ju (1993) - A pregnant peasant woman's husband is kicked in the groin by the village head and she takes it upon herself to find justice by taking the matter with up the authorities and eventually to court. It might sound like the Chinese version of Erin Brockovich but that description would be an insult to Zhang Yimou's exceptionally even handed tragi-comedy which objectively observes both the pitfalls of chinese bureaucracy (sometimes in deadpan hilarious fashion) and the single mindedness of stubborn individuals. Gong Li is nothing short of amazing in the title role, and even more amazingly, has tremendous rapport and chemistry with the majority of the rest of the non-professional cast.
The second half has occasional issues with pacing but then sucker punches you with an ending that is unexpected and vicious.
7.5/10
High Planes Drifter
#2724 posted by necros [99.227.108.217] on 2009/03/20 04:06:29
preferred this to his later pale rider. high planes seems almost evil, even if it is revenge, while pale rider seemed watered down. both are good of course, but i liked the first more.
Watchmen
#2725 posted by Nynort [24.78.143.88] on 2009/03/20 05:50:07
saw it with some other people, I was wary because the trailer for 300 made it look good, but it was a waste of time. Watchmen was far more interesting and ambitious but overall I didn't enjoy it. To me it shows what I think is wrong with most comic books: they smush together diverse and incompatible influences from 19thc/20thc popular literature (case in point: not that I saw it, but, the league of extraordinary gentlemen), with no concern for coherence. I read comics a lot when I was young, but the only one that has held together after all this time is Batman. And the reason for that is, barring the more extreme tangents that have been taken, the whole thing takes place in a coherent universe, where it's not like any random crazy shit can happen. Everything else reminds me of Mortal Kombat (which I love) - dramatic, flashy, violent, making absolutely no sense and retarded. But MK is a GAME, the primary purpose of it is not storytelling. (/rant)
Hmm
#2726 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/20 10:50:27
the whole thing takes place in a coherent universe, where it's not like any random crazy shit can happen.
Bruce Wayne was recently killed by alternatively a helicopter crashing into a building (fair enough, but not actual canon) or sacrificed by an escaped god due to firing a bullet backwards in time from a temporal gun in order to kill said god and avoid a magic inducued universal apocalypse... (official canon, even if spectacularly retarded)
Hmm
#2727 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/20 10:52:28
Also, watch the new South Park (13x02).
The Coon will save us!
I Neary Died The Watching The Guitar Hero Episode Of Southpark
#2728 posted by RickyT23 [81.157.18.131] on 2009/03/20 11:12:17
"congratulations, you've played Guitar Hero enough to score a million points, you're......
.....FAGS!"
Fleshlight From Amazon
#2729 posted by bambuz [91.152.89.203] on 2009/03/20 12:41:18
or Zack and Miri Make a Porno.
The humor just doesn't really work. There's no subtlety. There's no "getting it". :/
Also, product placement is really annoying these days.
Re: Noentity Or Whatever Your Name Is (lol, Remember That?)
#2730 posted by Nynort [24.78.143.88] on 2009/03/20 18:19:03
I intended to veto what you pointed out in your reply by saying "barring the more extreme tangents that have been taken" - ie, batman faces off against dracula, spawn, spiderman, PREDATOR, etc...
the point is what they are generally going for is something coherent.
Btw, anyone remember the storyline where Azrael was Batman from the early 90s?
Also, last night I was discussing watchmen with a few other guys and one of them invented a new tagline for it which I found hilarious: WHY - SO - SAD!?!?!!
Hmm
#2731 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/21 09:26:32
While I concede that using a cross DC Crisis plot wasn't the best example, I was actually trying to highlight the fact that it's pretty much the norm for the batman universe to introduce fantastical/magical/madshiznat elements as and when the writers feel the need.
And yeh, Nightfall, was a good story arc. Prefered No Man's Land/Cataclysm tho...
Right
#2732 posted by Nynort [24.78.143.88] on 2009/03/22 00:38:33
fair enough, they do put that stuff in Batman, but it's possible to do a serious interpretation of the material - the core concept does not involve marvel-type wacky pulp scifi. That said Wolverine does look sweet.
Hmpf
#2733 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.147] on 2009/03/22 21:09:14
Role Models (2008)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt043092...
Awful. The story, morality, emotions are for kids and maybe young teens (puberty and struggle at home). Yet the language and some of the jokes are very not for kids.
If you watch the trailer and think "OMG! It's Stiffler and some kid doing pretending he asked him to get his pants down, this is gonna be laugh fest" you will be disappointed.
Watchmen
#2734 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/03/25 00:38:48
Haven't read the graphic novel, approached the film in it's own right.
Thought it was great overall. Powerful, flamboyant, and kept me interested for it's whole length - not knowing the plot helped with that. Really liked some of the characters, Dr Manhattan was fascinating, and Rorschach was viciously excellent.
I did find it a bit camp in places and a bit gory in other places, which was an odd blend. But in between that it was good, gritty entertainment.
Yeah, so, cool.
Shame
#2735 posted by necros [173.34.78.53] on 2009/03/25 01:14:12
usually paul rudd is damned hilarious. :P
Agree With Shambler
#2736 posted by nitin [124.168.63.244] on 2009/03/25 09:00:00
Watchmen (2008) - pretty good adaptation of the source material and a pretty good movie in its own right. There are a few downright bad scenes, and Malin Akerman is responsible for most of them, and there are a few overly gratuitous scenes, but on the whole it’s a pretty impressively paced and made film. It also works better when it sticks to the themes and characters of the source material rather than when Snyder demonstrates his obsessive fascination with slow mo (really a lot of the action scenes are very similar to 300 and just as ineffective). But by retaining most of what made the source material so good and by nailing the characters of Rorshach and Dr Manahattan, it still provides an entertaining deconstruction of the superhero myth.
7.5/10
Seven Days in May (1964) - excellent political drama from John Frankenheimer that will be familiar in terms of plot to anyone that has seen a season of 24. But the script has class, some of the dialogue is particularly well written and the performances from Burt Lancaster, Frederic March and Kirk Douglas are strong. It feels a bit overlong, especially since the plot is too familiar these days, but there is enough quality in Frankenheimer's classical style to keep you interested throughout.
7.5/10
Les Enfants Terribles (1954) - a collaboration between Jean Cocteau and Jean Pierre Melville but it really does bear Cocteau's stamp on it much more than Melville's minimalist style. Having said that, it’s also noticeably less surreal than Cocteau's other works, presumably because Melville's realism compromised Cocteau from maintaining his more preferred approach. Otherwise, its basically a more likeable version of what Bernardo Bertolucci tried with The Dreamers, with two siblings isolating themselves from the world and creating their own world to live in until reality catches up with them as they grow up.
6.5/10
Robin Hood Series One - I'm a bit of a sucker for medieval set movies/shows and this one nicely fits the bill despite never really being above average. Shot in and around a hungarian forest, it looks fabulous and although the episodes follow a formula and are pretty hard to tell apart in terms of plotting, it’s a lot of fun. Keith Allen chews as much scenery as he can as the sheriff of nottingham which provides a nice contrast to the otherwise straight faced nature of the show.
6-6.5/10
Agree With Nitin.
#2737 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/03/25 09:28:06
She is pretty WET isn't she :S.
I didn't notice the slo-mo apart from the start. Maybe because I much prefer it to the MTV-style chop-a-thon that ruins plenty of action scenes in plenty of films.
Battlestar Galactica
#2738 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.0.153] on 2009/03/25 09:46:33
So no BSG fans on this board, I take it? Or are there any thoughts on the finale / series as a whole?
Never Tried It
#2739 posted by nitin [124.168.63.244] on 2009/03/25 10:34:58
because I could never work out if it was any good or just a cult thing like star trek :)
It's Not A Cult Thing
#2740 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.0.153] on 2009/03/25 11:04:52
well, it is to some, but it's actually a great show which deals with a lot of interesting topics (militarism, AI, what constitutes life, terrorism, religion, racism, war, love,...), and it's one of the very few sci fi shows that don't use the fact that they're sci fi as a plot device. It's simply the setting in which the story takes place. There are no space monsters, there's no techno babble etc. like you may know from star trek. It's about the characters first, which is what all the great shows have in common.
In fact, every person I have showed the pilot to became hooked instantly, even those who usually loathe sci fi. I would really suggest you give it a try because I think based on your taste in movies that you might like it. Plus it has a fantastic soundtrack! Just go get the miniseries plus a couple of episodes from the first season. If you're not convinced by then, you probably never will be.
BSG
#2741 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/03/25 11:20:35
Liked the originals :)
BSG
#2742 posted by Bal [82.234.123.21] on 2009/03/25 11:31:32
Yeah great show, the finale was a mixed bag in my opinion, careful, SPOILERS ahead!
It feels like they cut off all the lose ends with the "religion" thing, which annoys me. It would have been ok if there was just one religious aspect (Kara, or Gaius and Caprica's imaginery friends) but having two kinda sucked. I also can't imagine a people that would willingly get rid of all their technology, but I guess they've been on the run from their own machines for a while now, so I guess it's believable in context.
The first half of the finale was bloody awesome.
I'll miss my weekly BSG. =(
Shambler,...
#2743 posted by the silent [82.185.144.141] on 2009/03/25 11:35:11
...Do you plan to read the comics?
Sleepy
#2744 posted by nitin [124.168.63.244] on 2009/03/25 13:08:53
cool, will give it a rent and check it out. Eventually, once my unwatched pile is a bit more manageable. Still have 4 seasons of The Wire to get to.
But Why Am I A Girl?
#2745 posted by starbuck [129.215.58.174] on 2009/03/25 13:32:47
Still bitter.
Nitin, Bal
#2746 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.0.153] on 2009/03/25 13:45:46
nitin: Here is an interesting article comparing BSG to The Wire (very minor spoilers):
http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/...
HERE BE SPOILERS!!!
Bal, this pretty much sums up my opinion about the whole abandon-technology issue:
http://galacticasitrep.blogspot.co...
I have to say that I really liked the finale, but I was expecting it to be like this. I wasn't expecting a rational explanation for everything at all, and I was very sure that Starbuck would just vanish and her nature would not be elaborated on. I think they answered all interesting questions while still leaving some room for debate. But to me, they gave a very definitive answer to the question of whether there is a higher power at work and what the nature of Starbuck and the head people was. The were sent by a higher power to influence the events so that the cycle of destruction is broken. That was the plan all along, and by merging the cylon and human races, they were both lead to their respective ends (Kara Thrace == harbinger of death).
Anyways, there's a lot of debate going on, and from what I can see there are a lot of people who would have preferred a more rational explanation for everything, but I'm not one of them. To me, this was a pretty much perfect finale to a very good show! I'm just sad there won't be more of BSG, just "The Plan" and Caprica.
Haha
#2747 posted by megaman [94.220.201.236] on 2009/03/25 14:31:22
It's simply the setting in which the story takes place. There are no space monsters, there's no techno babble etc. like you may know from star trek. It's about the characters first, which is what all the great shows have in common.
In fact, every person I have showed the pilot to became hooked instantly, even those who usually loathe sci fi.
I bet those persons didn't loathe what in germany is called a "soap". What you're describing is exactly what I hate about most shows i see :( I hate when they don't have an interesting story to tell and instead focus on the characters :)
What?
#2748 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.0.153] on 2009/03/25 14:36:00
Are you comparing BSG with a soap? And since when is a soap about the characters? I think you misunderstood me here. Besides, BSG has a very interesting story to tell with very relevant themes, I think. But you can't please everyone, I guess.
Oh, and btw - I don't like soaps at all. In fact, I don't even have a TV set.
SleepwalkR
#2749 posted by Bal [82.234.123.21] on 2009/03/25 15:56:29
More SPOILERS.
Yeah, for the abandoning technology thing, I agree, as I said, it didn't really surprise me so much. As is described in the article, I myself can't imagine making that choice, as I still have high hopes for what technology can bring (= I want to fly around space and shoot laser guns).
I was also expecting Kara to be an angel or whatever, it was pretty obvious considering the piano episode (which I really enjoyed). I just have difficulty linking her to the fake Gaius and Caprica, do they represent the same entity? Seems strange considering how differently they operate.
And about the cycle of destruction, how is it broken? Cylon and human, by the end you couldn't really tell the difference anyways, but once evolved nothing's to stop them from starting over (make low-tech cylons etc).
I hate soaps and don't have a TV either, yay!
Silent.
#2750 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/03/25 16:34:47
Nope :).
Ah,
#2751 posted by HeadThump [65.54.154.44] on 2009/03/25 17:11:04
cool, will give it a rent and check it out. Eventually, once my unwatched pile is a bit more manageable. Still have 4 seasons of The Wire to get to.
Means you have seen the great season three Stinger Bell/Stanfield story arc :)
Bal (SPOILERS)
#2752 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.0.153] on 2009/03/25 18:18:36
I am not sure what exactly Kara was, but I think she was a tool used by "god" or whatever entity controlled those events. Just like the shared opera house vision or the head people. What's to stop a divine power to use a corporeal entity for its plans?
I think the cycle might be broken because cylon and human are now genetically mixed. I think that is what head six meant in the end when she said that she thinks that this time it's different. The system has repeated itself many times, and this time it's different because only the hybrid and its descendents (we) remain. But yeah, it's not clear, it's up to us, which is what the final "advances in robotics" images meant.
And I really enjoyed the Starbuck / father / Watchtower episode. The inclusion of this song in the show, transcending the barrier between the on screen characters and the viewers was a stroke of genius IMO. It kind of foreshadowed the events and made everything so much more interesting. From the minute I identified it as All Along the Watchtower in Crossroads pt. II, I was even more hooked on the show.
BSG
#2753 posted by necros [173.34.78.53] on 2009/03/25 19:33:40
there's some interesting stuff they do on the show with the CG.
it's something i first started noticing on firefly (and then serenity) where the CG camera is treated as if it was a real camera. in BSG, they took it even farther to where the CG sequences feel a lot like film documentaries which really boosts up the quality. the live action parts are for the most part filmed in that way too, so everything ties together really well.
i think there's a lot of good about this method, it's better than super choreographed railroad CG cameras, anyway.
Headthump
#2754 posted by nitin [124.168.63.244] on 2009/03/25 22:14:45
no only seen season 1 so far.
Necros
#2755 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.10.50] on 2009/03/26 08:05:01
I agree, and btw, it's the same fx company that worked on both shows. They invented the style for firefly and used it again for BSG, because the makers wanted the documentary style. Oh, and they put the serenity into the BSG mini series (in the scene on Caprica before the fall where Roslin finds out she has cancer, she is in a room with a huge window through which you can see ships flying by - one of them is serenity).
I also liked how they lowered the sound volume in the space scenes, but I wish they had had the guts to turn it off. But I guess it wouldn't have worked as well without sound.
BSG
#2756 posted by DaZ [80.41.171.148] on 2009/03/26 16:44:40
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say that BSG is the best sci-fi series I have ever seen!
Its just the perfect blend of sci-fi realism, action, and political process I have ever seen. I don't know how they did it as politics usually sends me to sleep after the first 5 minutes, but here it was engrosing and I actually gave a damn about it.
It also puts forth some very interesting ideas about the nature of human existence, what constitutes being "alive" and explores religious faith in a very compelling way.
If you have not watched it, for gods sake sort it out! ;)
DaZ
#2757 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.39] on 2009/03/26 18:06:19
Have you seen Firefly? For the love of God don't let the emo community around it ruin it for you, just try it. I loved it.
Sound In Space
#2758 posted by necros [173.34.78.53] on 2009/03/26 18:27:55
i think muffling sounds or some similar processing is the best way to handle sound in space. completely silent scenes can work though, as was proved by firefly, but the final space battle in serenity would have been pretty weak without sound. (i know they got away with it by having the fight in the upper atmosphere of that planet, but that was a cop out)
Spirit
#2759 posted by DaZ [80.41.171.148] on 2009/03/26 19:08:32
I actually have the firefly season 1 dvd and enjoyed it very much. I did not know it was the same fx company that did BSG, but thinking about it, it makes sense now :)
I need to see the final half of season 4 of BSG, so I skipped most of the posts here about it in fear of spoilers!
DaZ
#2760 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.8.40] on 2009/03/27 11:33:33
I completely agree, BSG is the most compelling and most interesting sci-fi-show I have ever seen. All in all I find it even better than firefly, which I enjoyed very much as well. I would even go so far as to say that BSG to me is the best TV show I have ever seen. But this is mostly because it just caters to my interests the most and because it really moved me emotionally a lot, which many other good shows did not.
I don't know what it is about BSG, but it just gets to me every time I watch it.
Hmm
#2761 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/27 12:17:55
I watched 01x01 of BSG last night 'cos of you guys...
You're all bastards, I needed my free time over the next week :(
What The Fuck Is BSG!?!!??!?
#2762 posted by RickyT23 [86.165.93.15] on 2009/03/27 12:50:56
seriously
BSG
#2763 posted by bear [94.255.223.153] on 2009/03/27 13:34:27
BinarySolidGeometry
BitterSweetGeekology
#2764 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.106] on 2009/03/27 13:50:51
I think I'll BSG some day, always thought it was nerdy Star Trek popcorn stuff.
#2765 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2009/03/27 14:11:37
Bitter & Sad Geeks
BSG
#2766 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/03/27 14:12:12
I always thought B5 was equally well rated for the sci-fi / politics / depth side. Not that I watched a lot of it myself.
Oh Right
#2767 posted by RickyT23 [86.165.93.15] on 2009/03/27 14:19:40
Thanks for the clarification.......
Nonentity, Shambler
#2768 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.8.40] on 2009/03/27 16:39:26
nonentity, you have to start with the miniseries, not the first season of the series. The miniseries is kind of like a pilot. The correct order is
1. Battlestar Galactica: The Miniseries
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt031497...
2. Battlestar Galactica: Season 1-3
3. Battlestar Galactica: Razor
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt099117...
4. Battlestar Galactica: Season 4
5. Battlestar Galactica: The Plan (not yet released)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt128613...
It's a little complicated ;-)
Shambler: Yeah, I hear that about B5 as well. I have tried getting into it a couple years ago, but it didn't do anything for me. The cheesy FX / costumes / aliens distracted me too much. But that doesn't mean that it doesn't have a lot of depth.
Oh.
#2769 posted by RickyT23 [86.165.93.15] on 2009/03/27 16:45:36
I see. BattleStar Gaylactatingcow.
#2770 posted by Trinca [194.65.24.228] on 2009/03/27 17:41:37
i see 3 series!!!
Supernatural
Smallville
and
The Legend of the Seeker
Hmm
#2771 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/27 17:56:45
Yeh, I noticed the plot jump and had discovered from comments somewhere that there was a mini series prior to ep1.
Gonna watch it at some point, but I actually quite liked the sudden start if you haven't watched it. Works well with the semi-crazed mental state inherent in the episode...
Yeah
#2772 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.8.40] on 2009/03/27 19:09:02
Although watching the mini before wouldn't have taken much from that feeling, because the mini has a different feel from the series.
Hmm
#2773 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/28 08:38:37
Watched the mini-series, you're right tbh. Prefer the main series tbh, but thx for the watching order :)
Also, why does nothing have corners?
Tbhmm
#2774 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/28 08:39:24
Corners
#2775 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.17.43] on 2009/03/28 09:15:40
It's kind of an in-joke. Apparently they had to cut so many corners budget-wise, so they decided to have paper without corners.
Shurely...
#2776 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/03/28 14:24:39
If they'd spent less money trimming the bloody corners off everything, then there wouldn't be so much of a budget issue??
Hehe
#2777 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.17.43] on 2009/03/28 14:33:09
Doubtful, but who knows...
Btw
#2778 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.17.43] on 2009/03/28 17:12:23
Here is an excellent fan made trailer to the first two seasons of the show that introduces it without major spoilers:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfF...
Unfortunately it's a bit out of sync.
Random Bitching About BSG
#2779 posted by Nynort [24.78.143.88] on 2009/03/29 11:09:08
Being as picky as I am, and coming from quality hallmarks like Deadwood and (even moreso) Carnivale, is it not the case that BSG became crap before it hit season 3? If it returned to greatness after that, please inform me - I mean when it started it was great - but it seems very possible from what I know of the series, that they started it meaning to have a limited storyline, and found that public panting just meant that more story was needed - to the point where coherence dropped away, and it did indeed become a cross between soap opera (ie, who's dating who this week) and weekly attack match (who's fighting who, and what spaceships do they have!).
Maybe they fixed it - but I can say, I watched if a lot longer than I should have, and before they fixed it, they fucked it.
Tronyn
#2780 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.4.214] on 2009/03/29 11:21:44
You are right that quality dropped mid-season two, but it picks up again towards the end of the season. Season three is pretty strong again, and season four is a bit of a mixed bag, but overall I'd say it's good.
Hmm
#2781 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/29 13:50:58
Enjoying S1 thoroughly so far, altho am only 8 eps in. But I can imagine how it could become cheese space fight/soap. Shall see.
Oh, and didn't Carnivale go completely terribad in S2? Lost all subtlety, got rid of the scary lesbian subtext, main character went emo, etc...
Carnivale
#2782 posted by nitin [124.168.63.244] on 2009/03/29 22:42:29
s2 wasnt as great as s1 but it was still excellent imho.
Biiesgii
#2783 posted by bamby [193.167.3.37] on 2009/03/30 16:37:39
It's probably new in the sense that it tries to be a more comprehensive serious effort of imagining a gritty constant war space scifi world thingy.
So, there will be lots of "children" in the following years.
A bit like twin peaks. I'm no expert, but to me it seems it spawned a new genre of TV series that are slower, more ominous, more movie like and have long plots.
I still have my problems with BSG. I haven't seen it all. It must be hard to constantly invent something in the plot and all these side tracks. Something that doesn't break the illusion. There is some very good casting and acting at places in my view. It feels a bit too contemporary with all the US military cliches.
A very simple BSG drinking game: every time someone drinks, you drink. You could take roles too if you absolutely want. The one playing Adama must have good stamina. Starbuck next... Blah.
Scifi in books is mostly the exposition of ideas, and the world is created to highlight them as the author pleases. At least the scifi I read.
Scifi in TV or in movies is mostly just mundane everyday movies or TV series happening in a scifi environment. Love interests, murders, plotting...
This is why they are actually usually completely different things.
BSG has at least some semblance of those big ideas with the playing around Cylons and the history, so in this sense it's refreshingly book-like. I don't say action or human relations are bad, just that there is so much of it already and there is a void of "idea scifi", which I personally would like so much.
But yeah, I know what you're going to answer anyway - that who the fuck am I to say what tv series should be like - love it or don't watch it. So I guess this discussion thread is not for that - we do not discuss hypotheticals of what could be.
Actually...
#2784 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/03/30 18:34:45
...that's a good post.
What
#2785 posted by necros [173.34.78.53] on 2009/03/30 19:22:18
is 'idea scifi'?
Hmm
#2786 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/03/30 20:12:25
I think 'idea sci-fi' was Scifi in books is mostly the exposition of ideas, and the world is created to highlight them as the author pleases. At least the scifi I read.
ie, rather than being a direct copy of our society but in space, the very systems of governance/culture/environment within the sci-fi world are created/modelled after some idea/concept that the author wants to expound on. At least that was my understanding from tne post, don't really read much sci-fi myself...
But yeh, good post bamby
Yup
#2787 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.25.132] on 2009/03/31 00:02:31
That's how I understood it, too. But I have to say that I find that rather boring (or I haven't read the same books). I think an example of what bamby meant is Star Trek, which explores the idea of a society that has overcome racism, greed and jealousy. But that's exactly what I found so boring about it - it's simply paints a picture of a society that has nothing to do with human nature. I find it far more interesting when a story reflects on those very things that concern us today. But then, maybe there are better examples of what bamby meant than Star Trek.
The Canonical Example Is Dune, Right?
#2788 posted by mwh [63.250.251.69] on 2009/03/31 00:08:55
I mean, it's not like there's actually very much science in the Dune books, and you wouldn't read them for the quality of the prose...
I've also heard of the idea of "economic fiction": for example, Iain M. Banks culture novels are mostly about a universe without resource constraints.
No
#2789 posted by megaman [94.220.195.236] on 2009/03/31 02:42:51
an example of what bamby meant is Star Trek, which explores the idea of a society that has overcome racism, greed and jealousy when i read bambs post, star trek was the example that came to my mind for the movie side of scifi. It's like greek gods: they're meta physical beings, but still modeled after the human emotions. They are extremely alike to ourselves.
A better example for idea-scifi would probably be Fiasco ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiasc... ), where the idea is that humans are not able to communicate with the civilisations they try to find in space, and the complete story, characters, etc. is/are modeled around that central idea. Concept would be a better word, here, probably. Still not a very good example, because the world isn't really "modeled" per se.
OT: wow, it did just occur to me: the "blank" state of mind the protagonist is in emphasises how we physically are not able to understand other civilisations. He isn't even really formed by our society, and still isn't able to understand them. Wow. Need to buy & re-read.
As far as the eye could see, the slopes were covered with throngs of naked, defenseless warts, and as the towering antennas, breaking, fell upon him in flames, he realized he had seen the Quintans. -- last line of the book.
Oh
#2790 posted by megaman [94.220.195.236] on 2009/03/31 02:46:11
And that last line is even more depressing when you read 300 pages to be with them when they first communicate, and you have those pages physically in your hands, when you reach that line.
Damnit, bamb, you must know other sci-fi like those lem books, please recommend :D
Well
#2791 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2009/03/31 02:46:27
Star Trek, which explores the idea of a society that has overcome racism, greed and jealousy. But that's exactly what I found so boring about it...
I would agree with you except the stories are all about the alien cultures and planets they find, which are all flawed and different in interesting ways (in the good episodes at least.) And from what I remember, the Federation was very smug about how advanced and enlightened they are, but they pulled a lot of tricks to resolve the conflicts (maybe Kirk's personality at work there.)
Re: A While Ago (Carnivale)
#2792 posted by Nynort [24.78.143.88] on 2009/03/31 05:06:26
Carnivale 1 was way creepier and more interesting than S2, but 2 was still good, and definitely had its moments. For me the main difference was simply that they sped the plot up a lot. S1 was like alien, not much action but a lot of sinister ambience, whereas 2 was like Aliens - lots of plotting, fighting, etc.
Brother Justin was an amazing character, as was "Management". I missed Lodz from S1 though.
If by main character nonentity you mean Nick Stahl's character, then I don't know what you mean - it seems to me like he actually figured out what he was supposed to do and started doing it, instead of being a withdrawn bitch like he was in S1.
Or Me The Main Difference Was Simply That They Sped The Plot Up A Lot
#2793 posted by nitin [124.168.63.244] on 2009/03/31 07:48:21
wxactly. Realised show was getting cancelled and started tying up things a bit too quickly.
And S2
#2794 posted by nitin [124.168.63.244] on 2009/03/31 08:11:38
has one of the best episodes with the maskmaker.
I think the thing is the quality drop is noticeable despite s2 being way above most tv in general.
Yay!
#2795 posted by bamby [130.233.228.11] on 2009/03/31 13:02:13
Some good discussion ensued!
Stanislaw Lem is a nice example of "idea scifi", especially the short stories (Cyberiad/Kyberias, Pirx the pilot, Fables etc). And it definitely is not boring, it is one of the funniest things written!
I heard they were making a movie of Fiasco. Dunno how that will work. I think the plots of such movies should not be divulged beforehand. It's the plot that is the most important thing. So it doesn't work in blockbusters where everyone knows how it starts and ends. That's also why I never read the back cover of books. The reading experience is almost totally without anticipation and surprises since the back text reveals about 70% of the plot. Same with bad movie reviews. I'm not interested in telling the plot beforehand to decide if I'm going to see the movie. I'm interested in what the movie is like, and decide on that.
There's not much stuff similar to Lem. Philip K Dick is kinda oversurreal but there are bits and pieces of insight I feel (or then I'm just too stupid for him). Ubik sucked but others have been better. Then there's of course the classics, Heinlein, Clarke, haven't read Asimov that much. Hoyle has some goodish stuff but there are a few big problems with his books (won't spoil that tho).
Star Trek is a good point of TV "idea scifi", I hadn't thought of that. I find it very boring - it's so clean and detached. Maybe the ideas would be fascinating but just not for me, or they are presented in such a extremely simplified form that they become meh...
Oh
#2796 posted by bamby [130.233.228.11] on 2009/03/31 13:04:44
and Ursula K Le Guin has some society ideas though I kinda haven't decided on them, they just seem nice books for some reason. (Dispossessed and the green forest world book)
Watching S2 Of The Wire
#2797 posted by nitin [124.168.31.244] on 2009/03/31 13:13:07
they should just stop making any more crime shows IMHO :)
Lem Like
#2798 posted by megaman [94.220.199.209] on 2009/03/31 13:53:11
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_... is mentionend on the fiasco talk page.
And yeah, Pirx, I should have mentioned those short stories. The one with the fly in the cabin of his patrol ship!
Oh Wait
#2799 posted by megaman [94.220.199.209] on 2009/03/31 13:53:42
you said that.
The Wire
#2800 posted by Preach [86.147.249.45] on 2009/03/31 19:54:43
Nitin's post has prompted me to say: they've just started showing The Wire in the UK, weeknights on BBC2. So what may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the show for free if you're a Brit. The first episode was shown last night, so if you can find a copy of that online you can easily catch up and join the "shared watching experience". The second episode is tonight at 11:20.
BSG Final - With Spoilers
#2801 posted by bambuz [91.152.65.44] on 2009/04/02 08:55:34
It is great stuff.
I haven't seen the whole series, more like bits and pieces from here and there and then maybe the last season.
In a sense, a tv series makes it possible to make a huge epic story far bigger than any movie. Whole life stories of people and examination of their changes during the years. BSG had that. Great acting and casting and enough care with the direction. Also the more "tactical" (as compared to strategic) aspects were very very well done. Camerawork, sets, overall flow.
But it has caveats - mostly with the plot this time. Probably the writers just have to drop lots of hints on the way and still eventually find that they have painted themselves into a corner and just gotta end it with some out of the left field device. Too bad. :/ As a whole there are huge glaring holes and it doesn't make a compelling coherent story I'm afraid. I will proceed to name a few.
Why the fuck is Hera so important? How many humans and cylons had tried to have sex? It seemed to have very good prognoses since in at least two of the not so many cases (3?) it had lead to pregnancy. (Mental note that it was always a human man fucking a woman cylon.) And if Hera was so important, why not jump out when she was in the ship? All the waffling about and waiting. In the end the whole plot device of the solution of the series was just the blonde angel, Starbuck, jumping to the right coordinates. And that was it.
Maybe I'm just different from the majority of audiences, but to me the worst flaws in movies and tv shows have always been in the scripts.
Considering how many millions are poured into the sets, direction, effects and actor salaries, it is mind boggling that the scripts are so inane. Huge holes of logic exist, completely amateurish plot devices, completely uncredible motivations, or often no plots at all. I still don't get it why more movies and tv shows are not made based on books - they (well, better books, but you have a lot to choose from) at least have some more thought out storylines. There were a lot of clever and compelling ideas in the series, mostly things that happened during one or two episodes, but not overall...
BSG is very very hard to top in overall quality and character. In a sense it's completely awesome. But there really could be a scifi series with an actual plot that made some sense.
AVATAR Teaser
#2802 posted by DaZ [80.41.171.148] on 2009/04/02 13:44:44
http://www.videosift.com/video/Cal...
Really shows nothing of the actual movie it seems, but I am effectively teased :P
Well
#2803 posted by bamby [193.167.7.26] on 2009/04/03 12:08:02
We know what's it like when it's a hollywood movie. The astronauts are constantly fighting and killing each other and in the end we find humanity is its own worst enemy.
Well Stated, Bamby
#2804 posted by HeadThump [4.136.90.202] on 2009/04/03 19:06:18
Martyrs, [REC]
#2805 posted by Drew [216.168.120.74] on 2009/04/12 12:34:13
Anyone seen these?
I've watched both once. I'm planning on watching Martyrs again, because I'm pretty certain I think it's stupid, but maybe a second viewing will make the ending seem less goofy to me. Didn't find the torture porn aspect as hard to watch as I thought based on reviews.
[Rec] is the kind of movie that's easy to take in in one sitting, but it's fucking awesome. Great, low budget first person 'found film' style zombie flick, with the best boss zombie in a while.
[rec]
#2806 posted by nitin [124.168.69.98] on 2009/04/12 13:44:53
metl saw it and quite liked it form his comments, its sitting in my unwatched pile.
#2807 posted by Spirit [80.171.81.85] on 2009/04/12 21:32:07
Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949)
Absolutely fantastic. I would sign nitin's comment
http://www.celephais.net/board/vie...
Highly recommended.
The english was hard for me to follow though, the poor sound quality from those old times did not help that. But that's not the movie.
Spirit
#2808 posted by nitin [124.168.69.98] on 2009/04/13 03:02:03
what did you see it off? the US dvd by criterion has pretty good sound quality IMHO.
#2809 posted by Spirit [213.39.214.149] on 2009/04/13 09:09:20
Some copy... Looked like a better TV stream rip. Good to know that there is something better out there.
And now, why did they make a Into the Blue sequel without Jessica Alba. :(
#2810 posted by Spirit [213.39.214.149] on 2009/04/13 20:24:16
http://www.imdb.com/keyword/the-hi...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_H...
Get this if you like Clive Owen (loner), fast cars (cool) and somewhat dark storylines with lots of action.
I only saw the first 4 so far, 1+2 were great, 3 a bit confusing and 4 a bit stupid (music killed the atmosphere for me).
Actually
#2811 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.172] on 2009/04/14 20:48:13
The later episodes get the suck (as usual when things get popular and mainstream). I#d recommend watching 1, 2, 3 though, the others if you really feel like it. 5 or 6 was kinda nice. The last one is abysmal and that's the first time I used that word.
#2812 posted by nitin [124.168.69.98] on 2009/04/16 13:47:01
way behind in comments, so heres some quick one/two liners of stuff :
Traitor (2008) - very average pseudo-intelligent post iraq thriller. Only saving grace is Don Cheadle.
5.5/10
The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp (1943) - beautifully shot, epic, touching film from Powell and Pressburger that barely wastes a scene in its 160 min runtime.
8/10
A Short Film About Killing (1988) - powerful, disturbing and objective anti-capital punishment movie from Kieslowski.
8/10
Hands Across the Table (1934) - above average screwball comedy with Carole Lombard and Fred MacMurray making a likeable pairing.
6/10
True Confession (1937) - blander comedy with the same two stars, but Lombard doesn’t disappoint with her comic timing.
5/10
Jodhaa Akbar (2008) - stunningly shot and scored bollywood epic which will cause your jaw to drop on more than occasion from the sheer grandeur of it all. Unfortunately it is not as compelling dramatically as it is visually.
6.5-7/10
Life on Mars UK Season 1 - average police procedural with a nice but poorly executed premise. Some enjoyable characters but the plots of most episodes are pretty weak.
5.5/10
And Some More
#2813 posted by nitin [124.168.69.98] on 2009/04/16 13:48:11
The Browning Version (1951) - tremendous, minimalist film with a great performance by Michael Redgrave who comes to terms with his failure as a teacher after learning that his pupils and colleagues are happy to see him leave when he is forced into retirement.
8/10
Amarcord (1973) - Federico Fellini's over the top and deliberately caricatured nostalgic recreation of his own youth in a small italian town is a series of great moments in an otherwise disjointed narrative. Has spawned many imitations like Cinema Paradiso and Malena but even in its disjointed state, it is better than them.
6/10
Barry Lyndon (1975) - amazingly shot and scored and also a very ambitious period film by Kubrick with a great first half. Then it comes to a bit of a standstill which unfortunately lasts most of the second half before finishing with a strong ending that makes up it somewhat.
6.5-7/10
The Wire Season 2 - big change of scene from the Baltimore streets to the Docks and while the change allows it to explore different themes, in the end the setting is slightly less interesting than that of the first season. Still a great season of tv though, despite the dramatic shift in focus.
8/10
Bigger Than Life (1956) - nicholas ray's dark technicolor filmed melodrama explores similar areas to many of Douglas Sirk's films and is only let down by a pat ending which rings very untrue.
7/10
The Bride Came COD (1941) - surprisingly bland pairing of Bette Davis and James Cagney who fail to click in a pretty averagely attempted comedy.
4.5-5/10
Cape Fear (1961) - scorsese's version was entertaining high camp, this is an entertainingly straight old school suspense film with Robert Mitchum terrifically sinister as Max Cady.
7-7.5/10
The Chaser (2008) - extremely well made if overlong suspense thriller set in the underbelly of Seoul with various parties tracking a serial killer over the course of one night. Na Hong-jin is a name to look out for.
7-7.5/10
Almost Caught Up
#2814 posted by nitin [124.168.69.98] on 2009/04/18 02:24:30
Dead Ringers (1988) - original, disturbing mindfuck from Cronenberg that has a pair of fantastic performances from Jeremy Irons playing twin gynaecologists who share *everything*. Loses some momentum in a muddled third act but pretty impressive stuff regardless.
7-7.5/10
Death in Venice (1971) - some truly great scenes in an otherwise problematic and far too languidly paced adaptation by Luchino Visconti of Thomas Mann's infamous novel. The source material, a disciplined ascetic composer in his 50's on holiday in Venice finding himself transfixed with the 'beauty' inherent in the physique of a 12 yr old boy, is not really suited for a film and in the hands of Visconti falls into simplistic uncle stevie territory. But every now and then, Visconti manages to combine Gustav Mahler's music, Dirk Bogarde's acting and visuals of Venice as the main character's mental hell into something extraordinary.
6.5/10
Dinner at Eight (1933) - above average ensemble dramedy that obviously uses Grand Hotel as a template but never quite reaches the same heights. The attempted skewering of high society lacks bite but the actors still manage to pull of the mostly mediocre material fairly well.
6/10
French Connection II (1975) - not a patch on William Friedkin's great original, but a pretty good film on its own terms. The setting moves to Marseille as Popeye Doyle continues his pursuit of 'Frog 1' and the first and third acts make for a gripping thriller. The second act, however, brings the movie to a complete standstill but luckily the movie survives that to finish well.
6.5-7/10
Get Smart (2008) - hardly has any of the charm of the tv show, in fact if not for the name it could be any other spy spoof that has been made since James Bond became famous. Its not terribly funny, despite Hathaway and Carrell suiting the roles and the ramped up action is poorly staged.
4/10
Hancock (2008) - somewhere in here is a pretty good film. I would bet good money that the original draft of the script for this was darker, smarter, longer and more coherent. But you can tell that the script got tampered with, probably multiple times, because its schizophrenic in tone from scene to scene. In its current form, it’s a terrible waste of ideas and some pretty good performances from Smith, Theron and Bateman.
5.5/10
L.627 (1992) - like a movie length french version of The Wire. Superb stuff, despite an unfocused and slow start, it does a great job in examining the police fight against drugs with great use of character humour to liven up the overarching despairing tone.
7.5-8/10
The Last of the Mohicans (1992) - great music, great action scenes and nice camerawork but otherwise it’s a strictly above average historical action epic from Michael Mann with stock characters and plot. Daniel Day Lewis is surprisingly flat as Hawkeye and Madeline Stowe looks out of place. But its hard to deny that the last 20 min are anything but memorable.
6.5/10
Religulous
#2815 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/04/18 07:27:50
Pretty damn scary film. Sure, there's all kinds of humor and wacky situations that pop up as Bill Maher eloquently interviews all kinds of religious nuts, but the end result is a terrifying look into the reality of those wacky religious nuts, aka the majority of humanity. I was thoroughly entertained however, and agreed with pretty much every point made throughout the movie, and now I'm worried I won't be able to go to sleep tonight.
People he interviews range from trucker church-goers to an "ex-gay" minister who married and "ex-lesbian" woman and had 3 children (although you wouldn't be able to tell he wasn't gay anymore) to gay muslim night-club owners in (I want to say Holland, but all those northern european countries get mixed up in my mind) to ex-Mormons. It is truly hilarious and heart-touchingly sad how stupid people can actually be.
I don't have a rating system, so I would just say it was pretty damn good.
Also
#2816 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/04/18 07:29:42
THere is a brief segment of some really hot looking biblical-themed porno where someone was sucking on a nuns tits. Anyone know the name of that ? Maybe I'll check in the credits to see where it's from.
#2817 posted by nitin [124.168.29.226] on 2009/04/20 12:13:16
Married Life (2007) - stylish, well acted 50's set drama that is predictably plotted but the performances from Chris Cooper, Patrcia Clarkson and Pierce Brosnan keep you watching.
6.5/10
Midnight Cowboy (1969) - great characters and generally well made, although it gets a bit self indulgent during at least one extended sequence and the ending (and events leading to it) is a little forced and abrupt.
7-7.5/10
The Square (2008) - well made aussie noir/thriller that borrows a bit too much from numerous better films and features a main character that is just not sympathetic enough, but overall its still a fairly enjoyable watch.
6.5/10
To Live and Die in LA (1985) - above average crime thriller which has a couple of extremely well staged action sequences (the car chase is great) but otherwise features a stock plot and characters.
5.5-6/10
Youth of the Beast (1963) - very stylish yakuza film by Seijun Suzuki which I did find distractingly confusing at times but it all comes together reasonably well if you stick with it.
6.5/10
Mongol (2008) - well made action epic about Genghis Khan's early days with a strong, understated central performance but also a ponderous and meditative tone for what really is a rather stripped down and simplistic narrative.
6.5-7/10
Wanted (2008) - above average brainless film that is enjoyable due to its sheer ludicrousness in plot and action, but is also let down by a badly attempted 'hip' attitude and some really cringeworthy dialogue.
5.5-6/10
Miss Julie (1951) - excellent, stylish film from Alf Sjoeberg Set on midsummer night of 1894 on the estate of a Count in Sweden with a very strong performance from Anita Bjork and some very good dissection of power in its various forms.
7.5/10
Old Acquaintance (1943) - well made melodrama which nicely pits Bette Davis' acting against Miriam Hopkins' mugging but some of the plot turns towards the end are badly rushed and/or highly implausible.
6.5-7/10
Nitin, Just Wondering
#2818 posted by starbuck [129.215.58.174] on 2009/04/20 15:25:46
what's the worst film you've ever seen?
BTW.
#2819 posted by Shambler [77.97.152.124] on 2009/04/20 15:28:05
Whomever was asking me about reading The Watchmen comic, well a mate insisted I borrowed it to read, so I did. I quite enjoyed it actually - mostly as a reminiscence about seeing the film. I'm glad I saw the film first because I had the benefit of the plot AND the style/action that way. I also prefered the film's endgame.
Starbuck
#2820 posted by nitin [124.168.29.226] on 2009/04/20 15:35:16
would have to think about it.
Thing is, these days I have a pretty good idea of what I will like (to an extent anyway) and avoid stuff I would truly hate.
300 would have to be up there though, although I think Casshern takes the cake.
It Was Me Shambler...
#2821 posted by the silent [82.185.144.141] on 2009/04/20 15:41:46
... and I'm glad you liked it.
Funny thing is that your feelings are the exact mirror of what I thought.
I kinda liked the film, mainly for the memories from the book that it evokes, but I prefer the latter. Especially the endgame.
I think this says a lot about the "imprinting" you get from something you get to know first...
#2822 posted by starbuck [129.215.58.174] on 2009/04/20 15:55:44
the internet tells me that Casshern is a live-action anime movie - oh dear. Yeah, I'd probably dislike that.
Havent Read Watchmen
#2823 posted by nitin [124.168.29.226] on 2009/04/20 16:27:51
for 5-6 years, but the film retains the essence of the comic I thought while amping things like action at the expense of character.
Is it better, probably not, the comic was created to be a comic and even though the movie is a decent adaptation, it loses things along the way.
Starbuck
#2824 posted by nitin [124.168.29.226] on 2009/04/20 16:29:37
but its meant to have 'awesome' visuals.
Assuming the dvd I saw was reasonably faithful to what was intended, 'awesome' has a far different meaning to what I thought. Havent seen a more vomit inducing visual style since or before.
Starbuck
#2825 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/04/20 20:19:34
Casshern looks pretty wicked. Saw the Japanese trailer for it a few years ago and pretty much flipped out. Looks like it's mainly story progression broken up with periods of over-the-top CGed action scenes.
#2826 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.242] on 2009/04/20 23:31:59
I saw Casshern once and I forgot almost everything about it. That should say all... ;) Didn't think it was thaaat bad.
#2827 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/04/21 00:40:18
It probably would have been a lot more memorable if we saw it when it came out several years ago. The CG was probably cutting edge then, but nowadays good CG is like toilet paper.
300?
#2828 posted by metlslime [173.8.184.9] on 2009/04/21 03:04:59
at first i was going to argue against this being among the worst, since it is a bad movie and quite dissapointing, but was at least memorable and somewhat distinctive.
Movies like Highlander 2, Avengers, and Catwoman are as bad or worse, though perhaps the problem is that the truly worst movies are actually quite forgettable, so it's harder to recall the exact level of badness. Like i'm pretty sure Zardoz should be on this list but it's kind of an indistinct blur in my memories.
(Interesting how Sean Connery is in so many of the above movies)
So 300 might not be the worst, but it may be equal peers with other worst movies.
Zardoz??
#2829 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/04/21 04:51:39
oh come on, that movie is a classic! it's extremely memorable; where else can you see sean connery shot put a naked woman?
Metl
#2830 posted by nitin.at.work [203.202.43.53] on 2009/04/21 06:10:43
yeah I know, but I did put a disclaimer saying I dont watch stuff I know I'd hate and the ones you mentioned would fall into that category. As does I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry.
But out of stuff I've chosen to see 300 and Casshern would be my picks.
#2831 posted by metlslime [24.130.223.174] on 2009/04/21 09:17:51
necros: strangely, I don't remember that scene... :)
nitin: fair enough, I don't seek out crap either, but I sometimes get out-voted in group situations.
Crap Movies
#2832 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/04/21 16:07:28
So my friend and his wife invited me out to see a movie. Our choices were Hellboy 2 or Hancock. I wanted to see Hellboy 2. They wanted to see Hancock.
To this day, they refuse to refund me my money.
Parts Of Hancock Were Good
#2833 posted by nitin [124.168.13.248] on 2009/04/21 16:30:22
but yeah you lucked out, H2 is heaps better
Aaargh!
#2834 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.3] on 2009/05/02 22:33:41
Why did I not see http://www.celephais.net/board/vie... earlier? Ok, maybe I would have thought "perfect plain hollywood popcorn for a saturday evening" but that would have been aimed too high.
Amazingly stupid and bad movie.
"Let's shoot that scene somewhere cool!"
"How about in some high snowy mountain scenery? We could play with like totally awesome camouflage and make it look like Hoth!!!"
"OK, Cool!"
"But would it make any sense?"
"No."
"OK, COOL!"
#2835 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.3] on 2009/05/02 22:34:33
Actually, what I wrote sounds remotely funny. The movie is shit, seriously.
Spirit
#2836 posted by nitin [124.168.97.239] on 2009/05/03 04:30:47
talking about Shooter?
Oops
#2837 posted by Spirit [213.39.147.122] on 2009/05/03 09:48:25
Yes, indeed.
#2838 posted by Spirit [213.39.223.179] on 2009/05/08 22:15:28
Has anyone here seen Lachende Erben? http://www.imdb.com/title/tt002423...
It was banned in Germany by the Nazis and still kinda is (well, banned for minors so yay censorship!). Looks like a nice comedy actually but very hard to find. I wonder if it would be worth the effort getting it.
Anyone Seen Man Who Fell To Earth
#2839 posted by nitin [124.168.32.221] on 2009/05/09 11:07:26
very bizarre I must say...
Filmz.
#2840 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.244] on 2009/05/09 14:13:45
Let The Right One In.
Cool, atmospheric, slow paced. Impressively retro clothing, I shall now assume all Scandinavians dress like that especially computer game mappers. Nice relationship between the two kids. I thought the vampire kid was well cool, I like some of the scenes where they're chatting casually/awkwardly with blood dripping off her. Quite arthousey and quite good, quite a good blend of genres too. I'd have prefered a little bit more bite and tension tho, and a bit more exploration of what it was like being a vampire.
Rating 22.75 - 23.05 / 28.95
Zoo.
Mrhands.wmv explained. Or, rather, not really. An entirely tasteful and again semi-arthousey docu-drama about bestiality. Which to be honest does some of what it says on the tin, but not nearly enough. It's quite well done and shows the different and curious characters involved (MrHands himself coming across suitably weird), and shows their....dedication to bestiality. But it doesn't explore the pathology nearly clearly enough, nor answer pressing questions like: "Why do you want a horse cock up your arse??". In it's quest for tastefulness it leaves too much unanswered, and I still don't "get" bestiality from it.
Rating: 12/21 - 14/20 / 25/27
Man Who Fell To Earth
#2841 posted by meTch [64.148.24.219] on 2009/05/09 15:38:33
is that the one whee they guy comes to earth for the water or some thing because his planet is fucked and they are running out so he has all these gold rings on a string to sell and shit and he starts building a rocket back because he was only a scout or something and all the stupid rednecks see it and start a rumor of him being a communist and them shit happens but i cant remember what? (i suppose i could have broken that sentence doon to smaller ones but anyways,)
oh is this a black and white film?
Shambler
#2842 posted by starbuck [129.215.58.128] on 2009/05/09 16:21:41
finally, a scoring system that makes sense. Also, will definitely have to check out the vampire film, heard good things about it from other folk too.
Fuck Off Shambler :)
#2843 posted by nitin [124.168.32.221] on 2009/05/10 01:29:13
but I agree on Let the Right One In, excellent film.
meTch - yep, thats the one, not b&w though. With David Bowie. Dont know about the communist angle though, maybe thats from the book. But he basically becomes rich and starts building his ship but gets sidetracked by becoming addicted to sex, alcohol and tv :)
Let The Right One In
#2844 posted by negke [88.70.75.156] on 2009/05/11 23:19:44
Agreed.
American remake probably redundant, stereotype-fueling.
Is the man how takes care of Eli in the beginning basically an old version of Oskar - like, did he meet her in the same way that Oskar did when he was at the same age? And if so, omg wtf etc?
Negke
#2845 posted by nitin [124.168.50.73] on 2009/05/12 00:49:23
thats what I assumed was the case. The book probably has the answer.
Ahh Ok [ Im Still At Fell To Earth Btw]
#2846 posted by meTch [64.148.30.155] on 2009/05/12 03:09:25
yes it was a pretty good science fiction movie
i should get it watch it again
#2847 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/16 10:56:58
some quick ones :
Breaking Bad Season 1 - sort of a darker, blacker version of Weeds and although this very short season doesnt really end but rather just stops, it is pretty well made with a nice mix of drama and comedy. Bryan Cranston is terrific in the main role and the supporting cast gel well too.
7-7.5/10
The Duchess (2008) - Keira Knightley finally arrives in this well made if fairly standard royal period piece. Knightley is terrific in the main role and is matched very well by Ralph Fiennes, their acting lifting the otherwise run of the mill themes and plotline into very watchable territory.
6.5/10
One Two Three (1961) - another well made farce by Billy Wilder with hilarious performances and some great dialogue. But, as is the case with a lot of films like this that feature rapid fire dialogue from all directions(eg Bringing up Baby and His Girl Friday) it cant quite sustain the manic energy for the entirety of its running time.
7-7.5/10
The Naked Spur (1953) - probably the weakest of the James Stewart/Anthony Mann westerns I have come across but that's relatively speaking. Its still a very solid film with some moments of brilliant characterisation, but also one that is hampered by questionable plotting.
7/10
Salvatore Giuliano (1962) - apparently the movie that influenced the technique of the classic Battle of Algiers and although it lacks that film's sense of urgency, this is still an excellent movie about the life and death of Sicily's notorious bandit, revolutionary and legend. Gets a bit confusing at times if you are unfamiliar with the subject matter (like me), but its always fascinating.
7.5/10
Mr Arkadin (1955) - Orson Welles made more than just the two great films that he is usually given credit for and Criterion's restored 'Comprehensive' version of this bizarrely trippy fusion of Citizen Kane, Touch of Evil and The Third Man is as complete a version as is ever likely to surface of this unfinished masterpiece.
Sure, Criterion couldnt fix the awful post production dubbing or Robert Arden's awful acting in the main role, but it is complete enough to appreciate the detail and uniqueness present in every frame and the giddy energy with which the film zips through its labyrinthine, pulpy plot. The numerous cameos from Welles regulars range from the entertaining (Mischa Auer) to the heartbreakingly sublime (Katina Paxinou).
8/10
Breaking Bad
#2848 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.16.114] on 2009/05/16 13:52:14
Agree with you nitin, it's a good show, pretty funny and gritty plus good acting performances. The second season is as good as the first one I'd say. I think it's not going to get a third season because everything points towards a big showdown at the end of season 2. Which is a good thing, because there's nothing worse than a show that continues after it has told its story (see Prison Break, 24 for bad examples).
I Did Wonder
#2849 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/16 15:58:42
how long they could stretch given Cranston's character's illness. Like you say, best when it doesnt overstay its story.
The Man With 2 Brains
#2850 posted by DaZ [80.41.135.208] on 2009/05/17 02:03:50
Just caught the last half of this film on tv, and I have not laughed so hard at a film in a long long time!
Its totally insane, but in a very funny way. From what I could tell it has a very 80's vibe to it and is about a man who falls in love with a brain in a jar, that he can talk to telepathically.
Totally outrageous scenes and some downright bizarre but hilarious comedy, definitely worth a watch if you like the naked gun / airplane / etc type of old comedy movies.
#2851 posted by starbuck [94.193.240.185] on 2009/05/17 11:08:27
there's nothing worse than a show that continues after it has told its story (see Prison Break, 24 for bad examples).
I love 24, but, jesus. It really is going to shit. This season they had jack just hanging about at fbi headquarters for 6-7 hours. Now, (SPOILER) it looks like Kim is going to get kidnapped again. Just fuck off, no one wants to see that.
I Liked It Uptil 4
#2852 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/17 11:40:13
but 5 and 6 didnt do it for me.
Home Movie
#2853 posted by negke [88.70.61.143] on 2009/05/17 23:27:05
Pseudo-documentary about a family coming apart because of their two increasingly weird kids, shot in the style of an amateur home video (camera, fast forward stuff, visual artifacts).
Trinca should see this - to get a rough impression what's going to happen to him...
Star Trek
#2854 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.244] on 2009/05/20 14:22:47
Star Trek
Got to see this at an Imax cinema which was pretty cool and did the space stuff justice although made the choppy badly shot fight scenes even more pointless. Good film, does exactly what it says on the tin but no more. Trekkies will like it cos it's basically a spectacular 2 hour episode of Star Trek, non-Trekkies will like it because it's a good fun, cliched, tick-all-the-boxes sci-fi-lite blockbuster. I doubt anyone actually love it, but it's good enough for what it is.
Rating: ¥¤¢.ç - §^° / ß&#358;&#294;
I'm Still Not Sold On That One
#2855 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/20 14:26:34
from the trailer it looks like your run of the mill generic sci fi movie.
And I have never seen any Star Trek.
And...
#2856 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.244] on 2009/05/20 15:21:13
from the trailer it looks like your run of the mill generic sci fi movie.
...the problem is what, exactly??
Genericness I Guess
#2857 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/20 15:27:57
i supppose when I choose to go the movies, as opposed to watching dvd, i dont want to see something thats not distinct in some way.
but yeah, on dvd, thats not so important
Rating: ¥¤¢.ç - §^° / ß&#358;&#294;
#2858 posted by DaZ [80.41.135.208] on 2009/05/20 15:29:02
this is the best rating system ever, honestly.
It can mean whatever you want it to!
DaZ
#2859 posted by Spirit [80.171.28.156] on 2009/05/20 16:54:38
You just asked Shambler out on a klingonian date.
And Let's Just Say...
#2860 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.244] on 2009/05/20 19:01:00
...the forehead isn't the only thing that's bulbous and heavily ridged.
Nitin, well it's a blockbuster, it's purpose is spectacle.
But as I say it's likeable not lovable. TDK and Watchmen, for example, impressed me a lot more as blockbusters.
#2861 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/05/20 22:02:53
i didn't really like the new star trek movie.
the bridge of the enterprise reminded me of galaxy quest...
it's sad when a movie looks like a movie that was a parody of it's source material.
that and some of the stuff was contrived.
(spoilers below...)
why would spock maroon kirk on a planet... i know he was pissed, but it's just nonsensical. wouldn't he have just tossed him in holding cell or something? to waste an escape pod and actually come close to killing him just seems wierd. of course, if he hadn't landed on that planet, he wouldn't have met spock or scotty (spock just happens to have been marooned on the same planet which is close enough to vulcan that you can see it with the naked eye AND scotty is there too??)
i liked the bit about archer's dog though.
Necros
#2862 posted by meTch [69.183.70.203] on 2009/05/20 22:31:10
the only explanation is in the fucha' the universe is smaller [not likely considering its expanding still] and there running out of planets [or they just keep spending there travel money on ice cream, yes just like 3drealms, and on top of that they are too lazy to find a better planet able to support marooned space dudes, guys, things]
Also Not Sold On Star Trek
#2863 posted by mwh [212.121.243.10] on 2009/05/20 23:35:31
It was fun and all, but I felt it somehow lacked drama, apart from the opening scene.
Shambler
#2864 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/21 00:52:57
but that's my point, you can see that TDK and Watchmen would be non-standard but still spectacle filled blockbusters from the trailers.
Yes...
#2865 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.244] on 2009/05/21 10:58:15
...correct.
And?
Star Trek Trailer
#2866 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/21 11:46:06
generic sci fi blockbuster. uninteresting :)
#2867 posted by Drew [76.75.125.51] on 2009/05/22 15:24:32
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind = Traffic
Synecdoche, New York = Syriana
Heh
#2868 posted by nitin [124.168.95.197] on 2009/05/23 04:21:58
was planning to see synecdoche this weekend, not expecting it to be as good as Eternal Sunshine, Adaptation or Malkovich though.
Have A Few To Catch Up On But Heres A Start
#2869 posted by nitin [124.168.30.166] on 2009/06/02 11:10:24
Doubt (2008) - generally well written and with some terrific performances but I did find the last act a little forced in its attempt to leave things unresolved, there were certain instances of dialogue that deliberately danced around the issue of certainty but rang hollow in terms of what the characters may actually have said in those circumstances.
Worth seeing just for the acting alone and for some remarkable shots from Roger Deakins (the waking up of the nuns in particular).
7/10
Frost/Nixon (2008) - didn't think I was ever going to say this but this is a very skilfully directed film by Ron Howard. Sure the script is very strong and Frank Langella is amazing in Nixon's role but Howard makes sure that he doesn't become an overbearing presence. I also think that Michael Sheen's role in the film as Frost is a little underappreciated, he played off Langella brilliantly. And Howard builds momentum very nicely too, this is one of the few recent films that is perfectly paced.
7.5-8/10
The Hit (1984) - Terence Stamp's gangster henchman turned informant is pursued from his hiding place in a remote spanish village by two hit men, played by John Hurt and Tim Roth. The non-existent plot is elevated to very watchable level by the performances of the three leads, some gorgeous photography of the spanish countryside and Stephen Frears' use of music by Eric Clapton and flamenco guitarist Paco de Lucia.
6.5-7/10
The Friends of Eddie Coyle (1974) - apparently this has been out of circulation since its theatrical release (until the overseas dvd release a few weeks ago) which is a real shame because it's a stunner of a film. Robert Mitchum gets one of his best roles, and that's saying a lot in itself, as Eddie Coyle, a gunrunner for the low level Boston mafia who gets himself into trouble and finds out the hard way that his 'friends' are anything but.
Peter Yates may best be known for making Bullitt but this is a superior film, made in a very understated style but with a very sharp eye for detail and great sympathy for its less than heroic characters. Some might find it too slow or too confusing but if you stick with it, it's a little gem of a movie.
7.5/10
State of Play (2009) - while it does suffer from constant plot exposition (probably a result of cramming the six hour BBC miniseries into a 2 hr movie), this is fairly good mainstream entertainment that is reasonably intelligent most of the time.
Kevin McDonald's documentary background works well with the political thriller format and he has at his disposal a pretty interesting story with some ripper plot twists. The big name cast are all very solid but could have been used better if the movie had allowed its characters some more time.
7/10
Sherlock Holmes Trailer
#2870 posted by starbuck [92.237.128.247] on 2009/06/03 02:47:10
Directed by Guy Ritchie:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4K...
Looks fucking horrific. Basically two hours of Tony Stark pissing on Arthur Conan Doyle's grave, directed by the biggest asshole in the entire world.
They nailed the character though, especially with the shirtless fist-fighting in a pit scene, very Holmes. What the fuck?
In a minor tangent, what a wonderful show House is. It's also loosely based on Sherlock Holmes, but in contrast, isn't completely retarded.
Jeeez...
#2871 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.244] on 2009/06/03 10:43:16
Well they've fucked that one right up haven't they.
I do vaguely recall that the fist-fighting was a part of Holmes, I may be wrong about that??
However the cliched Hollywood action cheese and lame generic humour was certainly NOT...
#2872 posted by nitin [210.84.24.127] on 2009/06/06 05:56:44
The Reader (2008) - decent film, mainly because of the story, but there's three main thing wrongs with it : a) it really should have been in german, it just felt off in accented english b) its at least 20 min too long and c) Kate Winslet who was not suited to the role. Fine actress but this is not her best work, too often she looked like she was trying to act rather than actually acting.
Still, some interesting themes, even if the execution is not quite up to scratch.
6-6.5/10
Revolutionary Road (2008)- effectively 2 hrs of watching two selfish, petulant, childish and idiotic people bicker and fight with each other. It might have worked if it had any emotional pull but, barring a few scenes towards the end where Roger Deakins' cinematography transcends the material, its as dramatically convincing as dishwater.
There's a line in the movie about knowing what you have, what you dont have and what you want. Director Sam Mendes makes the crucial mistake of only superficially hinting at what the Wheelers have, dont have and want. Without that, all the constant fighting has no context and just rings plain hollow.
5/10
The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976) - Nicolas Roeg's dour, bizarre and glacially paced sci fi film is a little disappointing, especially considering its full of very interesting ideas and some great visual imagery. David Bowie aptly plays an alien who comes to earth with a mysterious mission and sets about his job by amassing a fortune with the help of his species' advanced technology.
These early moments are brilliantly constructed, Roeg giving viewers just enough to piece together what's going on before moving on to the next scene. But once Bowie's character gets distracted from his mission by succumbing to the earthly desires of alcohol, s*x and tv, the movie loses all sense of pacing despite examining some intelligent themes in a non-cliched manner.
Had material for greatness but the results are a bit short.
5.5-6/10
The Ax (2005) - another disappointing film containing interesting ideas, Costa-Gavras' attempt at social satire is just not sharp enough or black enough to appropriately deal with its material. In fact, it has a fair bit of trouble finding the right tone throughout, clicking only in a handful of scenes that provide a glimpse of what could have been.
Jose Garcia plays a mid level manager who is fired from his job at a paper factory and has trouble getting another one due to fierce competition. Out of desperation, he determines that the best way to improve his chances is by literally eliminating his competition. Costa Gavras follows his attempt to get re-employed, feebly exploring the guilt and doubts Garcia's character encounters along the way.
5.5/10
Don’t Move (2004) - Penelope Cruz goes ugly in overwrought arty italian melodrama that has a number of strong scenes but some very implausible characterisations.
6/10
Appaloosa (2008) - decent, but unremarkable western with Ed Harris, Jeremy Irons and Viggo Mortensen. The last third is extremely good but the movie takes too long to establish its characters and relationships before getting to that point. Renee Zellewegger nearly ruins another movie despite having an interesting role but is thankfully kept out of most of the quality last act.
6.5/10
Watch on the Rhine (1943) - decent wartime melodrama which is a little too earnest in its message delivering but has strong performances from its cast, including Paul Lukas, Geraldine Fitzgerald and Bette Davis, and effective characterisations.
6-6.5/10
State Of Play
#2873 posted by megaman [94.221.116.210] on 2009/06/06 12:20:10
agreed. Stays mostly intelligent. And man, is Ben Affleck a bad actor. Seriously. Stop casting him.
Given His Role In This
#2874 posted by nitin [210.84.24.127] on 2009/06/06 15:34:30
I didnt mind him.
1/2 Way Through Season 3 Of The Wire
#2875 posted by nitin [210.84.24.127] on 2009/06/06 16:45:59
god its beautiful!
HOME
#2876 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2009/06/07 08:14:42
Movie for free, explains why M. Smith is right: Humans are the cancer of Earth
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqx...
#2877 posted by starbuck [92.237.128.247] on 2009/06/07 13:08:20
Star Trek
Not a big fan of the original series of the show but this was great fun, and definitely worth a watch. Nothing too original though, and most of the screentime is dedicated to lens-flare.
Coraline
Brilliant animation based on a Neil Gaiman novella, directed by Henry Selick (of Nightmare before Christmas/James and the Giant Peach fame). Uses a blend of stop-frame and 3d animation and it looks beautiful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmD...
Definitely has it's similarities to Alice in Wonderland, and it's got a real uneasiness and loneliness to it. They never resort to cheap jokes and cheesy quirkiness, and at the same time, don't go too far the other way and end up with any sort of Tim-Burton-gothic-ness to it.
As someone who hugely respects the art and craft of Pixar, I really think Coraline blows a lot of their films out of the water, in both the visuals and the storytelling. Can't recommend this enough.
Cheers Starbuck
#2878 posted by nitin [210.84.24.127] on 2009/06/07 13:18:40
I just ordered the dvd of Coraline, had my fingers crossed but I have uncrossed them now :)
Coraline.
#2879 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.244] on 2009/06/07 14:34:24
On the list, word. Sounds nice.
Hmm
#2880 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/06/07 17:34:05
It has a talking cat, eye buttons and a mouse circus, what more can you ask for?
Th3r'5 0/\/|Y 0/\/3 74|k1/\/G C47 |/\/ /\/\Y 800K
#2881 posted by meTch [64.148.27.69] on 2009/06/07 23:01:02
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDu...
guess where else he's featured?
Just Finished Marathon Sitting Of Wire S3
#2882 posted by nitin [124.168.120.245] on 2009/06/09 15:41:52
where do they go from here?
rhetorical question btw, I dont want spoilers :)
No Spoilers...
#2883 posted by Preach [81.132.247.133] on 2009/06/09 19:43:14
...but season 4 is probably my favourite of the lot, so good stuff to come. Season 3 did seem like a shift in tone despite returning to some familiar characters. I felt like it moved from being "realistic" to "believable" in patches - if that makes sense, but what they did with Major Colvin was so interesting that it didn't bother me.
In one of the commentaries, David Simon says that the opening scene to each season is supposed to encapsulate the theme and message of what's to come. I can't say enough good stuff about the season 3 intro. The Mayor intercut with Bodie is great fun, as is seeing the demolition team pressing the real trigger after the plunger is sunk. But really, seeing those two towers come down like that, and then have it trigger a "war"...that's setting your sights high in terms of commentary.
Preach
#2884 posted by nitin [124.168.120.245] on 2009/06/10 01:01:53
agree that plot arcs and character arcs became a little more contrived but hard to really criticise when the rest is so good.
and I really should listen to the commentaries, completely missed that two towers reference.
Terminator Salvation
#2885 posted by mwh [118.93.53.222] on 2009/06/10 02:37:40
It's not very good.
#2886 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/06/10 02:48:31
That's what I've been hearing. Sad face.
Hmm
#2887 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/06/10 06:04:43
It's a'right, 'bout the same level as Star Trek imo.
I'm mostly swayed by the fact I've wanted a future-war terminator film since the age of 7, but I do think it's watchable fun for the most part, even if the ending is stupid (altho nekkid CG arnie pwnz j00)
Some More
#2888 posted by nitin [124.168.120.245] on 2009/06/10 14:14:45
Libeled Lady (1936) - pretty well scripted and beautifully performed screwball comedy that’s not as good as the best in the genre but the chemistry between the 4 leads (Jean Harlow, William Powell, Spencer Tracy, Myrna Loy) more than makes up for Jack Conway's unimaginative direction.
7/10
The Green Mile (1999) - definitely too long but if you're a fan of Frank Darabont's well executed classical hollywood style, this will more than satisfy. Sentimentality goes hand in hand with the style adopted but thankfully, like The Shawshank Redemption, it never treads intro oversentimentality. There are a couple of scenes where the movie seems to have sudden shifts in tone but they're pretty effective so you cant really fault it for that.
Had the length been shorter, this would have been upto Shawshank's level, but as it is, its still a pretty stunning movie.
7.5/10
Beauty and the Beast (1946) - Jean Cocteau's suitably dreamy and semi-surreal version of the fairytale is easy to admire but a bit difficult to like. It looks great and the attempt to examine some of the darker themes in the story is also a plus, but unfortunately the actual drama between the characters seemed too fake and unbelievable.
6/10
Get Smart Season 2 - I think I said it when watching season 1, its interesting seeing such a formula based show on dvd where every episode is similar and comparing it to the more serial based tv series that are around now. Definitely dated but the performances from the cast still manage to overcome the lacklustre material. And still way better than the recent movie.
6/10
Body of Lies (2008) - decent, if unremarkable, action thriller from Ridley Scott. Performances are good, action scenes are good (thankfully you can actually see whats going on) but the script is a bit of a mess. Surprisingly, the best scenes are the character scenes between Di Caprios'c character and his love interest, despite the cliched situations they are given. Don’t know why there was not more of them, would have helped cover up some of the other deficiencies in the script.
6.5/10
The Wire Season 3 - see comments in posts above.
8.5/10
#2889 posted by Spirit [80.171.85.80] on 2009/06/13 21:32:28
The Darjeeling Limited
Boring, pretentious, unconvincing characters, melancholic, stupid.
I should have checked what other movies the director did. Life Aquatic, yeah. No surprise I did not like this one. Bleh.
Heh
#2890 posted by nitin [124.168.32.107] on 2009/06/14 02:57:59
I liked Darjeeling Ltd, quite a lot actually. Life Aquatic was terrible though.
#2891 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/06/14 08:45:45
I thought Life Aquatic was pretty awesome. Very surreal. Also the Royal Tenenbaums was pretty good. Wanted to see Darjeeling Limited.
Did see Up though, was very enjoyable, and surprisingly complex emotionally.
Royal Tenenbaums Is The Best One
#2892 posted by nitin [124.168.32.107] on 2009/06/14 09:31:24
although Rushmore is pretty damn good too.
I Actually Liked Rushmore The Most....
#2893 posted by metlslime [71.202.219.105] on 2009/06/14 09:36:29
maybe becuase it felt like the weirdness was serving the plot, while in the other movies, the plot seems to be serving the weirdness.
Though, i thought Darjeeling actually held together pretty well, i liked it.
Transformers 2
#2894 posted by mwh [118.92.161.120] on 2009/06/28 11:08:28
Oh My God it's so bad. I expected it to be bad, and it was a lot worse.
I would like the next film I see to not be terrible, please.
About 30 Movies Behind
#2895 posted by nitin [124.168.18.52] on 2009/06/28 15:51:03
here's the first few :
The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945) - probably the best version of Oscar Wilde on screen, its beautifully shot, well acted (look out for Angela Lansbury's excellent turn as Sibyl Vane), and retains enough of the essence of the original story which is a classic.
7.5/10
A Face in the Crowd (1957) - not as well known but this is as good as Scorsese's King of Comedy, Lumet's Network and Wilder's Ace in the Hole as a satirical exploration of celebrity and power, and its eerily prescient in the age of reality tv.
Elia Kazan has a great script at his disposal and he also gets tremendous performances out of Andy Griffith (playing a drunk hobo who becomes an overnight radio sensation) and Patricia Neal (the woman who unintentionally creates the celebrity monster).
8/10
Coup De Grace (1976) - hadnt seen anything by Volker Schlondorff before but after seeing this, I'm inclined to track down more.
Set in the baltic states in 1919, two years after the Russian revolution and right in the middle of the civil war between the Whites and the Reds, Schlondorff paints a bleak look of a dying and decaying place by way of a love story between a prussian countess and a german officer. Its heavy going but completely hypnotic stuff.
7.5/10
Gomorrah (2008) - Overly chaotic and disparate look at the modern day italian mafia in Naples, but with a number of scenes that will burn themselves in your mind. This isnt a glamorisation of the mafia, but rather a fairly disturbing and brutal look at a 'business' that is almost everywhere and involves almost everyone.
The delibertate move to make it so chaotic does make for some confusion early on but sticking with it will more than reward you.
7-7.5/10
Hamlet (1948) - good, moody adaptation of the shaespeare play by Laurence Olivier that has some nice innovative camerawork and good performances.
On the downside, it strips away some crucial aspects of the play and makes the transitions in the main character a bit too sudden.
7-7.5/10
Stage Door (1937) - Lovely look at the behind the scenes life of aspiring stage actresses with a tremendous ensemble cast that work great together. Realism is not the main focus here, although there is a decent enough quota of 'realistic' drama, with the writing focusing more on the banter between the large array of its female cast.
And boy is the dialogue good, there is a 5 min scene with Ginger Rogers and Katherine Hepburn trading barbs that is as perfectly written and delivered as any of the great screwball comedies.
7-7.5/10
The Straight Story (1999) - David Lynch does arthouse Disney movie and the results are spectaclar. Its not for everyone, the slow pace and lack of plot will put off quite a few people.
But those that can look past those qualities will be in for a treat. Apart from the above, its pretty much perfect in all areas. The characterisations and dialogue are of a very high quality (although the great acting also helps that aspect), the cinematography and music are amazing, and it has a great emotional punch that is completely devoid of any sentimentality whatsoever.
8.5-9/10
Was It Like This Bad?:
#2896 posted by meTch [64.148.17.227] on 2009/06/28 15:53:15
http://legorobotcomics.com/?id=48
Hmm
#2897 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/06/29 02:57:55
Why does nitin's movie list so often correspond to Teh C's motw?
MeTch
#2898 posted by mwh [118.92.161.120] on 2009/06/29 04:37:55
Apart from the way no-one came out saying "wow that was awesome", yes, that's about right.
Mwh
#2899 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/06/29 05:22:18
Totally agreed. Apparently, I'm closed-minded for watching the movie and giving reasons why it was a piece of steaming fucking dog shit, according to my friends, who apparently liked it, even though they're black and were offended by the stereotypical racist twins or whatever.
Ok, sure whatever, but the movie still sucked balls.
Zwiffle
#2900 posted by nitin.at.work [203.202.43.54] on 2009/06/29 07:04:14
devastator's balls?
Yes
#2901 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/06/29 17:22:03
Giant swinging wrecking balls.
#2902 posted by nitin [124.168.18.52] on 2009/07/02 10:25:16
Some more from the backlog :
The Fearless Vampire Killers (1967) - pretty average, straight faced vampire spoof from Roman Polanski which does have a couple of hilarious moments but on the whole is poorly paced and misses far too often.
5-5.5/10
3 Women (1977) - Robert Altman's moody, psychological mindfuck was obviously inspired by Bergman's Persona and most likely also inspired Lynch's Mulholland Drive. Bergman's film was more concerned with an intellectual examination of its subject matter and Lynch's was more concerned with the atmosphere, style and its characters.
Altman's film, involving two women whose personalities are in sharp contrast when they first meet and move in together, sits somewhere between the two which leads to a number of problems since it cannot seem to determine how much weight to attach to each aspect. Regardless, its always intriguing and fascinating even if it gets a little frustrating at times.
7-7.5/10
The Exterminating Angel (1962) - pretty good satire from Luis Bunuel of upper class conformity. A number of guests at a formal dinner party find themselves trapped and unable to leave for inexplicable reasons that range from the outrageous to the absurd. Bunuel uses that to create a series of farcical situations that are both entertaining and interesting social commentary at the same time. It does tend to get a bit repetitive but is boosted by a genius ending.
7-7.5/10
A Canterbury Tale (1944) - another charming film from Powell and Pressburger loosely using Chaucer's theme of 'eccentric characters on a religious pilgrimage' to highlight the WWII experiences of the citizens of Kent. The plot is not important, Powell and Pressburger create interesting characters right from the start and their interactions are the highlight of the movie along with the highly impressive cinematography (which, amongst other things, features an amazing jump cut across centuries in a similar vein to 2001's famous jump cut with bone and the space shuttle).
7.5/10
Saboteur (1942) - above average Hitchcock with some good set pieces but with flat 'good' characters and some silly plotting.
5.5-6/10
Design for Living (1933) - above average screwball comedy from Lubitsch with Gary Cooper, Frederic March and Miriam Hopkins. Some very good bits, but most of them are near the start and it loses steam the longer it goes on.
5.5-6/10
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (1931) - tell you what, some of the special effects here are amazing. There is an uncut transition from jekyll to hyde that is very very impressive (had to look up how they achieved this and the method is even more impressive and ingenious). Unfortunately I felt the movie itself was quite stilted, despite Frederic March's good performance and some interesting exploration of the more darker aspects of the story. Part of that was because the supporting cast is not up to scratch, part of it because it seems a bit rushed. I would have preferred it to be 20 min longer in order to allow the subplots to have been develop more.
6/10
#2903 posted by nitin [124.168.18.52] on 2009/07/03 12:38:56
and more :
Kanal (1957) - very skilfully made wartime film from Andrzej Wajda that cant quite break the mould of stock characters but is otherwise an intense look at the Warsaw uprising, telling the story of a company of resistance fighters escaping the Nazi onslaught through the city's sewers.
7/10
Pigs and Battleships (1961) - Shohei Imamura is quickly becoming one of my favorite filmmakers, his penchant for scathing, cynical social critique and black humour is again on full display in this little known Japanese gem which follows the story of Kinta, a low level member of a yakuza gang in post war tokyo, and his girlfriend Hiroku against a backdrop of steeped corruption and US occupation. Has possibly the funniest scene I have seen in a long long time.
7.5-8/10
Queen Christina (1933) - corny as hell but Greta Garbo has quite an immense screen presence and carries all the corn very admirably. The first half is stronger than the second but this is very enjoyable old fashioned filmmaking.
6.5-7/10
Blow (2001) - absolute rubbish film which is far too concerned to run through as many events as possible in american dr*g smuggler George Jung's life, rather than the man himself.
3.5-4/10
Il Grido (1957) - the fifth great film from Michaelangelo Antonioni that I have seen and his earliest. His sparse style is not quite as refined in this outing but the signature shots and themes of individual isolation and alienation still leave quite an impression and the central performance by Steve Cochran as an italian sugar refinery worker on a road trip to nowhere after his long time lover leaves him is quite something.
7.5-8/10
Fort Apache (1948) - decent, fairly standard western by John Ford with Henry Fonda playing against type as a General Custer type commander of a cavalry regiment. As usual, I found some of Ford's insertions of humour quite annoying but the characters are likeable and there are some well executed set pieces.
6/10
Wall E (2008) - hmm, not quite a masterpiece, but definitely a great film. Loses some steam in the last act but the first 2/3 more than make up for that and the animation is amazing throughout. Also enjoyed the short Burn-E on the dvd.
8/10
Huh
#2904 posted by megaman [94.221.106.223] on 2009/07/03 13:08:44
wally was one of the worst animation movies i saw yet. Sure, they had a nice render engine (particles were nice, lighting), but the design, the story, the 'humour' all pretty much sucked :/
Walle
#2905 posted by PuLSaR [94.246.126.172] on 2009/07/03 15:24:38
Is a great movie at least among the recent ones. Very nice and naive story
Wall-E
#2906 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.122] on 2009/07/03 16:33:12
Pulsar + Nitin >>> megaman.
The graphics and textures were so good in some of it I was sure they'd used models instead of computer animation.
#2907 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/07/03 17:33:28
I already feel like one of those fat lazy Ameri... I mean humans 700 years in the future.
#2908 posted by spy [92.46.19.7] on 2009/07/03 19:04:44
Blow (2001) - absolute rubbish film which is far too concerned to run through as many events as possible in american dr*g smuggler George Jung's life, rather than the man himself.
3.5-4/10
hmm...
i would rate it 9/10
Spy
#2909 posted by nitin [124.168.18.52] on 2009/07/04 03:36:21
would love to hear why, one of the few movies I have seen recently that I struggled to find any positives for.
#2910 posted by mwh [118.92.165.109] on 2009/07/04 05:04:39
I watched Wall-E on a long haul flight, which seemed strangely appropriate...
Geisha Robot!
#2911 posted by Bal [83.204.133.136] on 2009/07/04 12:26:40
This looks like the best movie ever.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wo-...
#2912 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/07/04 18:14:33
... it does?
Nitin
#2913 posted by spy [92.46.16.136] on 2009/07/05 14:36:23
i don't know how to describe it, i think its just a matter of a personal impressions, since it's based on a true story. i was curious of a story about life of George Jung. it is one of a few movies, that after watching it i was forced to google to find out more about GJ. and it was really interesting to see how he became one of the biggest cox smuggler of 70th.
shit i dont know what else i could add.
either you like it or don't/ and i like it
#2914 posted by spy [92.46.16.136] on 2009/07/05 14:40:48
and i'm a biggest fun of JD
Fair Enough
#2915 posted by nitin [124.168.18.52] on 2009/07/05 16:04:48
I guess I had the opposite reaction :)
agree on JD though, cant wait for Public Enemies to come out.
I Can See Both Sides Of The Debate:
#2916 posted by RickyT23 [86.136.52.237] on 2009/07/08 13:56:48
Character development, character development, character development.
There was none.
The director relied too much on the audience going through the story with Georgie, but never really got to know Georgie. Which worked on a sort easy-listening (or easy viewing) level. But what it didnt do is really get inside the head of Georgie, you didnt get to see much of the emotional side of things....
IDK
The Hangover...
#2917 posted by R.P.G. [24.74.69.186] on 2009/07/09 05:52:33
...was a rather nice distraction from writing i/o code for spatial networks.
(The pentagram is a complete graph on 5 vertices, and thus is an appropriate post icon, I hope?)
Pretty Random But
#2918 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.17] on 2009/07/10 11:18:45
I love the musical "evil" theme in Cowboy Bebop so much. Those two deep tones. It is so very dark and evil. Eg in that prisoner ship episode. *shudder*
I Finally Saw This Cowboy Bebop Two Nights Ago.......
#2919 posted by meTch [69.183.70.109] on 2009/07/14 04:51:43
YOU COULD HAVE MENTIONED IT WAS ABOUT SOMETHING AS COOL AS SPACE-COWBOYS >:O!!!!!!!
...rage over
Hmm
#2920 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/07/14 17:12:15
And jazz. Don't forgot the jazz...
#2921 posted by Spirit [213.39.129.232] on 2009/07/19 22:24:25
Ice Age 3:
"Ok, so we have all these random locations modeled. Do you think we can use them all in one movie?"
"Sure, we'll just add dinosaurs, that old story about family and use the Ice Age franchise."
"Dinosaurs are almost like dragons, cool, let's also rip off those Shrak guys."
Random idiotic movie with so much fast action and dark, terrifying sequences that i would wish no kids would ever see it, especially in 3D. What the hell... Positive upside to it, the baby is named Peaches so the next movie will be Ice Age 4: Shake Yer Dix...
Wait
#2922 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/07/19 22:27:10
There was an Ice Age 2 ?
Yeah
#2923 posted by Spirit [213.39.129.232] on 2009/07/19 22:49:22
I didn't remember anything about it either. The opposums and Manny's girl were introduced there.
Hmm
#2924 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/07/19 23:33:39
Opposums is a genius concept.
I haven't seen owt Ice Age films, just like the idea...
Martyrs (2008)
#2925 posted by negke [88.70.57.31] on 2009/07/21 23:24:07
A young woman's quest for revenge against the people who kidnapped and tormented her as a child leads her and a friend, who is also a victim of child abuse, on a terrifying journey into a living hell of depravity.
Pretty intense French horror movie. Starts out as your regular torture/splatter/ psycho-creature-mystery film with lots of blood and violence, but when you think you're at the end, it shifts to a whole new stage of brutal, uncompromising scenes (like Hostel, but more disturbing). It's the twists near the end that make it somewhat stand out from the other movies of the genre, though I don't know if I'd watch it again.
Have That Lying Around
#2926 posted by nitin [210.84.44.69] on 2009/07/22 00:55:52
been meaning to get to it.
#2927 posted by nitin [210.84.44.69] on 2009/08/02 10:56:00
Public Enemies (2009) - Pretty damn good despite its faults, namely the completely unnecessary (or so it seemed) choice of shooting on hi def video and an assumption of a more than usual level of familiarity of the time period by the audience.
I have a feeling that the more familiar you are with the time period, events and characters, the more you will like this and vice versa (mainly because the movie tends to be about Dillinger the symbol rather the Dillinger the person). The video look is not great but I wouldnt say it distracts that much if you're interested in the movie. If you're not, the distraction gets amplified.
I thought Depp was fantastic, as was Cotillard. But this will divide even Mann fans, let alone your casual moviegoer.
7.5/10
Oh
#2928 posted by Spirit [213.39.211.228] on 2009/08/02 12:22:33
This might be a movie for me. It is a calm and thrilling or a fast confusing hollywood thing?
Spirit
#2929 posted by nitin [210.84.44.69] on 2009/08/02 13:36:04
depends, theres a lot going on, especially early with many charcaters coming in and out and a lot of talk that would probably be quite confusing unless you know a bit about the time period and the people in the movie.
But its definitely slow by hollywood standards.
Also, its quite violent in parts, not sure if that bothers you but just thought I would mention that in case thats a deal breaker.
I Actually Saw Some Movies Recently:
#2930 posted by metlslime [173.11.92.50] on 2009/08/04 01:52:13
Into The Wild -- i was pleasantly suprised, the trailers made it seem like it glorified his story, but in fact the movie is sympathetic towards the character but not with his choices or philosophy. Not a great movie for me in terms of cinematography, but told the story and was watchable.
Star Trek -- suprisingly decent, nothing really bothered me, i don't yet accept these characters as THE characters but maybe they will grow on me. Kirk has swagger but no charm. At least Spock was pretty believable. Pacing and plot were good, though being chased by a random space monster was ironically kind of a lull.
Into The Wild
#2931 posted by nitin [210.84.44.69] on 2009/08/04 10:56:53
one of the few movies that I have really disliked and its mainly because I did feel that it glorified his story.
Hmm
#2932 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/08/04 13:03:58
You should provide IMDB links, I had to search to find out who 'he' was... Oh, and apparently the plot keywords are; Wilderness | Emory University | Alaska | Charity | Female Frontal Nudity
So fair enough, does he set up a strip club in Alaska?
Eden Log
#2933 posted by negke [88.70.246.72] on 2009/08/04 13:30:14
Not sure about this one. Seems like an indie/low budget production and for some reason I can't quite put my finger on I was constantly torn between finding the imagery appealing and being put off by a slight taint of cheapness it all had. It's mostly b/w, dark and dirty, and shot in somewhat arsty way (at least it reminded me of a movie of such style). Simple plot: A man wakes up deep inside a cave. Suffering amnesia, he has no recollection of how he came to be here or of what happened to the man whose body he finds beside him. Tailed by a mysterious creature, he must continue through this strange and fantastic world. And the gist is - of course - that man is evil and should better not tamper with nature.
For some reason I feel like I have to like the movie, but dunno, maybe it was the horrible dubbing that spoiled it for me. Nice quote by the director (quoting Romain Gary): "Technology is the asshole of science."
Nitin:
#2934 posted by metlslime [173.11.92.50] on 2009/08/05 00:57:06
to me it seemed like the film used the various other characters he meets to show you what it thought about him, and their opnions were along the lines of "we like him, but we can tell his quest is driven less by grand ideals and more by emotional damage." It seemed like every character but him saw that he was driving straight into disaster. The film didn't portray those other characters as small-minded or overly cautious people, rather it portrayed them as wiser and more balanced, and seemed to use that to contrast against his extreme reactions to authority, and his heroic self-image.
Fair Point
#2935 posted by nitin [124.148.144.116] on 2009/08/05 14:32:39
but I think the tone, especially combined with the music and cinematography, when McCandless is alone and by himself overwhelms it.
Although I guess it is arguable that the above was done to get you into McCandless' frame of mind and identify with his quest but it didnt work for me.
Nitin:
#2936 posted by metlslime [173.11.92.50] on 2009/08/05 21:57:29
you're probably right there, and the artistic/cinematic choices often seemed inconsistent or weird to me. This includes some editing, music, some of the weird effects, etc. And you're right, it does seem like sometimes the film is casting him as a hero, and maybe it's due to those inconsistent choices.
Gaspar Noe
#2937 posted by negke [88.70.90.103] on 2009/08/07 00:46:01
I Stand Alone
Interesting one, very bleak and desolate in both imagery and atmosphere. The character's inner monologue establishes the tone appropriately. Damn those 'shot cuts' and lol at the "You have 30 seconds to stop this film" warning. Why the double ending?
Irreversible
I expected it to be a lot more fucked up ("The movie that made nitin sick!"). The revenge and the rape scenes are tough, but bearable, and the reverse-progression makes it feel kind of strange, especially after 'cause and effect' are finally exposed. Visually nice, I didn't mind the 'vertigo' style in some scenes.
Ok Time For Some Reviews
#2938 posted by nitin [124.148.144.116] on 2009/08/08 04:40:42
with imdb links for nonentity.
The Hurt Locker (2008) - the best war themed film in years and also the best action film of this year. Kathryn Bigelow outdoes herself with this vicious, highly suspenseful and unconventional iraq set film focusing on an elite bomb squad unit.
The narrative is unconventional with no clearly defined antagonists, no real arc and no climax, and yet it is an entriely character driven piece that is never less than interesting. The largely unknown cast is great and the action scenes are far more exciting and memorable than your usual point, shoot and rapidly cut variety that dominate recent films.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt088791...
7.5/10
<b?Thirst (2009) - The new film from Chan Wook Park is an original if very messy take on the vampire film. The basic plot setup involves a priest participating in a medical experiment that goes wrong and turns him into a vampiric creature. But thats just a base for Park to launch a bizarre film version of Zola's Therese Raquin, filled to the brim with hilarious black humour and schizophrenic tone changes.
It cuts through swathes of interesting ideas during its (too long) 133 min runtime, but the most interesting ones are relegated to the sidelines and the misguided adaptation of Therese Raquin taking up most the screentime. Add to that the almost scene for scene change in tone and you have an unfocused, wasted film but one that is always entertaining to a degree.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt076207...
5.5-6/10
The Hurt Locker
#2939 posted by megaman [94.221.100.168] on 2009/08/10 12:51:11
agreed. Been some time since i saw an action movie so intense. If you're looking for story, character background development, etc. look somewhere else, though.
Plenty Of Character Moments
#2940 posted by nitin [124.168.95.57] on 2009/08/10 13:35:36
but yeah you wouldnt call it a development and/or arc, more of a slow reveal in an unconventional fashion.
If You Like Twin Peaks
#2941 posted by bamby [82.130.33.108] on 2009/08/13 16:03:13
You might like this short children's educational animation, although the makers probably didn't intend it to be so ominous...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpj...
#2942 posted by negke [88.70.49.211] on 2009/08/14 09:00:28
No wonder there are so many dark and twisted death metal dudes in Finland.
Alive In Joburg
#2943 posted by negke [88.70.51.250] on 2009/08/19 09:39:52
Interesting short film by the director of District 9 (basically its origin).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XP...
Hope To See District 9 Next Tuesday Night
#2944 posted by nitin [124.148.166.16] on 2009/08/19 12:34:03
in the meantime :
Night of the Hunter (1955) - rewatch, didn’t quite like it the first time around as I felt it was kind of hokey. This time around, I got quite into it, probably because I'm now interested in other aspects apart from just story and acting. The last 1/3 still doesn’t work for me but the dreamlike visuals are spectacular and Robert Mitchum's laconic psychopath is quite entertaining.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0048424...
7-7.5/10
Claire's Knee (1970) - another overly intellectual talkfest about relationships by Eric Rohmer but, like My Night at Maud's, its quite entertaining and beautifully shot. Its also better than Mauds because the characters are a little less analytical and a little more impulsive.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0065772...
7-7.5/10
Milk (2008) - suffers from the same flaws as most biographical films, namely the tendency to just reproduce the main events the character took part in without really bothering to explore the character himself. In this particular case, the problem is amplified because the supporting characters are barely even that, popping in and out of the movie just to serve the plot. Its definitely well made and Sean Penn puts in a good impersonation without ever really going beyond that, but in the end it’s a fairly one dimensional film that treats its subject matter fairly simplistically.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt1013753...
6-6.5/10
Body and Soul (1947) - Robert Rossen laid down the template for a lot of flawed sporting genius films with The Hustler but before that he laid down the template for the boxing film with this excellent film with film noir overtones. In fact, its surprising to see how much this has in common with Rocky. Abraham Polonsky's screenplay is tight, with some very memorable dialogue, and although its all fairly predictable, its very well made and has a number of interesting subplots and characters.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0039204...
7.5/10
Manhunt (1941) - ultimately disappointing WWII thriller from Fritz Lang, but one that starts off very promisingly. After a failed assassination on Hitler, british hunter Thorndike is hunted over Germany and england by the nazis. Up until the middle section of the film when Thorndike reaches England, it’s a cracking film, albeit a silly one, but once that happens it veers off into a dodgily handled romantic subplot that is never quite shaken off despite a good ending. Shame, because this is one of Lang's strongest visual films.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0033873...
6-6.5/10
Mr Skeffington (1944) - entertaining if uneven melodrama with Bette Davis and Claude Rains in top form. It takes on a number of issues, probably too many, and although the end product is not quite the sum of its parts, the acting by the two leads more than makes up for the meandering tone and pacing.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0037094...
6.5-7/10
Magnificent Obsession (1954) - extremely over the top melodrama from Douglas Sirk that is quite entertaining for its first half before becoming ridiculous in its second half. Still works, but only just.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0047203...
6.5/10
Valkyrie (2008) - big misfire from Bryan Singer and its really his fault. The performances are fine and the subject matter ripe for a good film, but, presumably because the audience knew how the story would end, Singer felt that he needed to up the ante throughout the rest of the film. Unfortunately, this approach results in an overcompensation in the suspense stakes in an extreme way generating scene after scene of false suspense till the whole thing really becomes a parody of the film its trying to be.
http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0985699...
5/10
Actually Got To The Theaters A Few Times Recently:
#2945 posted by metlslime [173.11.92.50] on 2009/08/24 01:03:40
Ponyo - latest Miyazake film, this stands up fairly well among his other work but isn't near the top. Excellent sense of wonder and magic, charming animation, good characterization for the main characters, Miyazake does a good job of adding tension and suspense to the film, for most of its length. I think it falters a bit near the end, and part of it is that, as in many of his other films, the villains all end up being friendly by the end of the movie, and in this case the result is that the tension sort of disintegrates. If you have some all-powerful character who is benevolent, and no remaining villains, it's hard to get too worried about how things will turn out. Perhaps he didn't know how to end the story.
Inglourious Basterds - latest Tarantino film, this was pretty damned good overall with some weak spots. My biggest criticism is that i don't think the climactic scene was handled well, there were a lot of threads to tie together and some of them were tied up well, but the level of tension dropped too soon before the actual climax, which made the rest of the scene play out somewhat awkwardly for me. However the prologue was stong and a good ending is probably the most important part of leaving a positive impression in the audience.
I'd be interested in hearing others' thoughts on the climax of this movie, but of course we can't really talk about it without spoilers.
#2946 posted by metlslime [173.11.92.50] on 2009/08/24 04:30:18
prologue
er, i mean epilogue.
Metl
#2947 posted by nitin [124.168.31.214] on 2009/08/24 11:15:46
plan to see that next week after District 9 tomorrow. will chime in :)
Sewerobix 2008
#2948 posted by Kuzco Brown [66.215.247.213] on 2009/08/29 06:04:22
a Military Vueltypt on Wheels like the Krotone Droids in Chicago Ilinois 1998 and Corona CA 2007 which the Eksoiledred is the Appropriate in the World of EspioWB East
Sewerobix 2008
#2949 posted by Kuzco Brown [66.215.247.213] on 2009/08/29 06:04:57
a Military Vueltypt on Wheels like the Krotone Droids in Chicago Ilinois 1998 and Corona CA 2007 which the Eksoiledred is the Appropriate in the World of EspioWB East
#2950 posted by metlslime [98.248.107.212] on 2009/08/29 10:19:45
WTF
#2951 posted by Spirit [80.171.28.20] on 2009/08/29 11:21:21
Gone in 60 Seconds (the Nicolas Cage one)
Finally watched this yesterday. Could have been a AAA movie but some things are so crappy. The damn kids and their highschool teen movie "comedy". Fugly bug-infested Jolie. Too much luck events in the racing scenes (like that wrecking ball), come on, it's about the driving, don't let these things ultimately decide the actor's fate. The clichee plot twists.
But apart from that it is a very good movie with great acting and a decent (sometimes great) soundtrack.
Gotta get the old Gone in 60 Seconds (1974) now, I bet I'll like it even more.
What?
#2952 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.19.199] on 2009/08/29 11:30:27
Nicolas Cage, great acting? This guy has only two movies with decent acting under his belt, and that's Lord of War and The Weather Man, and even in those he over- and underacts all the time. God damn.
And don't even mention Leaving Las Vegas. It's a good movie, yeah. And Elizabeth Shue delivers a great performance, which is then ruined by Nic Cage. Fucker.
Oh And
#2953 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.19.199] on 2009/08/29 11:30:49
yo momma fat.
Did You Watch Dubbed Versions?
#2954 posted by megaman [94.221.124.143] on 2009/08/29 11:46:51
because i know i thought denzel washington was almost as bad as keanu reeves until i heard his real voice and what he did with it.
Sleepy
#2955 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/08/29 12:13:21
Adaptation surely? And to a lesser extent Bringing Out the Dead. But otherwise I'm with you.
And the old Gone in Sixty Seconds shits all over the new one (not that it's that great either but the car chases are better).
Okay
#2956 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.19.199] on 2009/08/29 12:51:00
Adaptation was not bad, too. But generally I think that Cages acting style is not very versatile and only works in very few roles. That's why most of his films are shit - he is miscast.
megaman, I don't watch dubbed movies.
Agree On That
#2957 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/08/29 13:00:44
I tend to avoid most nic cage movies like the plague.
Nicked
#2958 posted by generic [67.233.220.173] on 2009/08/29 15:52:22
I am even disappointed that he is voicing a character in the Astro Boy movie. O Tezuka!
Raizing Arizona
#2959 posted by RickyT23 [86.26.86.70] on 2009/08/29 16:25:27
That was a good one for the 'Cage.
Yeah
#2960 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/08/29 16:52:03
didnt quite like that one but he was decent in it.
Wild At Heart
#2961 posted by pjw [71.90.34.95] on 2009/08/29 18:09:38
...was another good one. One of my faves.
But yeah, Cage can be bad sometimes.
Thats On The To Watch List
#2962 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/08/30 03:53:05
been trying to get the uncut version for ages :)
Actually...
#2963 posted by pjw [71.90.34.95] on 2009/08/30 06:43:32
There's a couple of different versions. The entirely uncut version (original Australian theatrical release) is almost impossible to find (opens with a scene of Sailor getting it on with Lula's mother in a toilet cubical). I have a Korean DVD that retains the bits of blood and violence that were cut to avoid a U.S. "X" rating.
The Quiet Earth
#2964 posted by bear [130.242.7.250] on 2009/08/30 15:15:35
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008986...
Interesting watch for sure.
Yeah
#2965 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.31.146] on 2009/08/30 15:28:16
that's a good one. Aren't they redoing that too?
Review.
#2966 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.122] on 2009/08/30 16:35:08
Inglorious Bastards
It's okay. Some classy bits, some crass bits, quite patchily put together. The orphanned girl's sections stole the show, some of the violence porn was tedious, the more subtle humour was good. It was a bit dumb and felt like it could have been put together a lot tighter, particularly bringing the two strands together towards the climax.
Rating: 867.54 - 880.9 / 1582.01 (+/- 13.2 accuracy)
Shambler
#2967 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2009/08/30 21:48:02
nice review... nice ranking :P
Did Just Read
#2968 posted by meTch [64.148.8.2] on 2009/08/30 23:41:03
Nicolas Cage and great acting in the same post?!
i thought those two things were not compatible with each other
Seeing IB Tomorrow
#2969 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/08/31 12:09:03
looking forward to it.
Shambler, see District 9, good fun, should suit your taste too.
Nitin.
#2970 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.122] on 2009/08/31 13:43:04
Yeah, it looks good, looks very heavy-handed with the apartheid metaphor but cool and different otherwise.
Also.
#2971 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.122] on 2009/08/31 13:43:51
Anyone seen Paranormal Activity?? Was reading about it the other day, apparently it's actually quite scary. Not something that suits my taste but am curious...
Shambler
#2972 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/08/31 14:26:04
the (heavy handed) apartheid metaphor is pretty much ditched, or at least relegated to the background, after about 15-20 min.
From then on its pretty much your normal chase film, but a good one and with a south african accent :)
Also
#2973 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/08/31 14:32:54
one of the better trailers I've seen in a while :
http://www.apple.com/trailers/inde...
Hmm
#2974 posted by nonentity [78.86.152.78] on 2009/09/01 16:03:06
Sleep Dealer is really good...
#2975 posted by nitin [210.84.17.235] on 2009/09/02 11:05:06
Inglourious Basterds (2009) - Somewhere in the middle with this one. The best scene is right at the start and it never quite lives up to it. Landa and Shoshana were the best characters (and actors) for me and they didnâ€™t get enough focus. Lack of focus in general was my problem and when you have a 150 min film, either focus it or cut it by 30 min IMHO.
And it has a horribly executed climax in my opinion, the sudden change in one of the characters for no apparent reason is a travesty (echoes of Death Proof here) and extremely stupid.
But it gets 5 points for that opening scene alone and the rest of the score is for various good little bits throughout (I quite liked the false tension in the ordering of the milk scene at the restaurant and didnâ€™t mind the first 10-15 min of the otherwise far too long basement scene).
6-6.5/10
#2976 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.195] on 2009/09/02 22:32:40
Gone in 60 Seconds (the 70s one)
Watched this earlier. Ace chase at the end. The rest is pretty bad though. Just grab it and skip like 45 minutes ahead.
District 9
#2977 posted by mwh [118.93.57.64] on 2009/09/07 14:48:51
Pretty good!
Personally...
#2978 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.122] on 2009/09/08 23:39:35
District 9
Brilliant, one of the best films I've seen in quite a while. Distinctive, gritty, moving in places, very well put together, good action, great deaths (I see what Fric means about the gore now - although I thought some of the "trauma" pushed the 15 certificate more), and actually kept me intruiged the whole way not knowing how it would work out.
Okay there was the odd cliche as it progressed, it could have benefitted from a bigger budget to make some areas more convincing, and there was some faith needed with the plot - but the latter I only realised thinking about it the next day, the general gripping style glosses over that.
Exactly what sci-fi/action film-making needs.
D9
#2979 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/09/08 23:47:34
It was okay. The action scenes were cool, not because they had me on the edge of my seat (they didn't) but because of all the cool FPS throwbacks. It seriously had me itching to play some FEAR2, albeit not a lot.
Story/progression were okay I suppose, I didn't feel the story was anything special, the main character was an asshole but you knew he wouldn't die because hey, he's the main character.
My dad thinks they're opening it to one or two sequels, which would make sense based on the ending, but I figured they would just leave it as is.
So yeah, for all the hype surrounding it, I feel comfortable in the fact that it was pretty much what I thought it was - a decent but not really innovative or genre-defining scifi movie. I would probably rate it like a 7/10.
D9
#2980 posted by inertia [75.179.154.192] on 2009/09/09 00:03:06
Zwiffle, the main character might have been an anti-hero but he certainly wasn't an asshole.
#2981 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/09/09 00:24:12
Yeah, he was.
Er
#2982 posted by inertia [75.179.154.192] on 2009/09/09 01:07:24
He redeemed himself in the end. That's the point.
It Was Quite Good
#2983 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/09 01:16:47
although I'm with zwiffle that it was really just a well made chase film in a sci fi setting rather than anything groundbreaking. But I'll tkae that these days, hard enoguh to find something thats decent in sci fi.
oh, and I thought he was an asshole too. But you could still root for him because the others were even bigger assholes :)
#2984 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2009/09/09 14:07:50
I agree, he was an asshole. I never liked his self serving "just following orders" company man attitude the entire film. He should be first against the wall when the aliens come back.
#2985 posted by Shambler [94.172.168.122] on 2009/09/09 15:03:31
I disagree, he wasn't an asshole. He was a bigotted (well he's white saffer WTF do you expect) incompetent way out of his depth and trying to look out for number one, but an asshole, no. He also clearly had some conscience and had to go through a lot of traumatic shit...
It might have been a "fairly" standard chase/action film beneath the style and grit....but hey, form and function, too often such films have too little of either...
Well
#2986 posted by inertia [75.179.154.192] on 2009/09/09 15:13:01
I watched A.I. just a few days ago for the first time, and it was the biggest sack of incongruent shit ever. So D9 rapes it.
#2987 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/09/09 15:25:10
The problem I had with Wikus Van De Merwe was that he basically didn't really give a shit about anyone but himself (until like the veeeeery end as many have said) - for example not really caring about Tommy's lack of body armor in the beginning, really the entire apparent illegality of that whole part about the mass eviction which he seemed to have no problem with, and that one part where knocks out Christopher, essentially forsaking him and his plight at that point, as well as kidnapping his kid, for his own self serving needs.
I Thought The Film Was An
#2988 posted by RickyT23 [86.136.54.59] on 2009/09/09 16:25:30
excellent Black Comedy of the year, from Peter Jackson. The screenplay and angles reminded me soooooooooo much of Bad Taste, along with the awkwardness of the VERY broad South African Accent, and dress sense.
The special effects were very good, especially the fight scene at the end.
And the part with the fingernails really made me cringe horribly.
Definately held my attention for the duration, with plenty belly laughs and some gripping serious parts.
(District 9 that is)
Hmm
#2989 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/09/10 00:38:38
Watched D9 last night, brilliant film, need to rewatch when less stoned though.
And yeh the main character is an arsehole. I thought that was the point?
Agreed
#2990 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/10 15:28:57
it was deliberate and it worked but I still dont buy that he wasnt an asshole. Since when is being a 'bigoted white saffa' from whom you shoudlnt expect much not being an asshole :)
But But
#2991 posted by inertia [75.179.154.192] on 2009/09/10 15:44:00
that nice girl married him! And misses him!
#2992 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/09/10 17:43:27
She wasn't nice she was an asshole too.
#2993 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/09/10 20:55:31
I KNEW IT! I'M SURROUNDED BY ASSHOLES!
#2994 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/09/10 20:56:32
You've been at func_msgboard for how long now?
#2995 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/09/10 21:41:25
never seen space balls? :(
LOL1
#2996 posted by meTch [64.148.8.2] on 2009/09/10 21:46:45
commence operation vac-u-suck!!
#2997 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/09/10 21:47:19
hehe, i could quote that movie all day. so many good ones. :)
Hello My Darlin . . . Hello My Honey . . .
#2998 posted by ijed [216.241.20.2] on 2009/09/10 21:47:21
Argh
#2999 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.148] on 2009/09/10 22:39:38
The International (2009)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt096317...
Amazing film until later. Huge waste of a great buildup and tension. Nice soundtrack. Clive Owen. Dammit, it could have been a fantastic movie... (I don't like spoilers).
Hmm
#3000 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/09/10 23:41:17
I know I'll get flamed for this (assuming anyone has any left in them (speaking of which, maybe if we ignore the ejeet he'll just leave)), but Space Balls wasn't very good...
#3001 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/09/10 23:43:57
as a parody, it was amazing. but you're right, the movie itself wasn't great or anything.
Nonentity
#3002 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/11 00:07:59
I agree with you, actually the only Mel Brooks movie I've liked is the original Producers, none of the other spoof/parodies work for me.
Nitin:
#3003 posted by metlslime [173.11.92.50] on 2009/09/11 00:17:52
i wanted to ask you, which character change did you find so unacceptable in Death Proof? I actually felt that movie worked really well.
Spirit
#3004 posted by mwh [118.93.57.64] on 2009/09/11 08:08:36
The International -- yeah, totally agree. It's OK and you're hopefully and then there's "that scene" and you realize it's a boring action movie after all.
Metl
#3005 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/11 14:31:49
Stuntman Joe. Dont want to go into spoiler territory but I didnt but his change/development/lazy writing at the end.
mwh/spirit, havent seen it yet, but from what I've read 'that' scene is pretty spectacularly staged no?
#3006 posted by Spirit [213.39.203.109] on 2009/09/11 17:08:48
I recommend the movie anyways. If it could have hold it's quality throughout the whole, it would be amongst my favourite movies now. If you are definitely going to watch it, don't read anything below. I did not know anything about it before hand and I guess that was part of why I loved it.
Mild spoiler:
V thrff zju naq V zvtug zrna qvssrerag fprarf. V nffhzr zju naq lbh zrna gur fprar va gung pvephyne zhfrhz? Npghnyyl V yvxrq gung, vg qvq svg. Jung V qvq abg yvxr jnf ubj gur zbivr npghnyyl raqrq, gur riragf sbyybjvat gur zhfrhz fprar yrnq gb vg.
Don't read this if you haven't seen it:
Gur fubbgvat fprar jnf gbb ybat va zl bcvavba. Ng svefg gur ohvyg-hc grafvba rkcybqrq va vg, juvpu jnf avpr, ohg gura vg orpnzr shgvyr (naq n ybg bs rssrpg "jnaxvat"). V ungrq ubj dhvpx naq rnfl gur xvqanccrq thl jnf fhqqrayl ba gurve fvqr. Gur fprar jura gung bar thl inavfurq va gur pne tbg zl ubcrf onpx sbe n xvpxnff raqvat ohg vg jrag gb trarevp onq pyvpurr ynaq vafgrnq. Naq gur raqvat vgfrys jnf whfg jnl gbb enaqbz naq (ntnva) shgvyr gb zr.enaqbz naq (ntnva) shgvyr gb zr.
Now I rot13ned it and forgot what I wrote. Parts of the movie also felt like "hey, we haven't done $ClicheeHollywoodElement yet, let's do it now".
Er......
#3007 posted by RickyT23 [86.24.123.227] on 2009/09/11 20:04:08
Spectacular, Yes, But Very Out Of Place, Imho.
#3008 posted by mwh [118.93.57.64] on 2009/09/12 00:10:40
Wtf?
#3009 posted by ijed [190.20.64.211] on 2009/09/12 01:11:22
Wire
#3010 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/12 13:53:08
season 4, only 7 episodes in so far but this is quite possibly the greatest season of drama tv I have come across.
Meh
#3011 posted by megaman [94.221.105.219] on 2009/09/12 14:04:47
so many movies to rewatch
http://frood.net/rot13/
Hmm
#3012 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/09/12 14:08:47
Power watched the Wire recently, other than the relatively weak S2, it just gets better with each season. S5 is the most amazing piece of TV drama I've ever seen, the actions of the characters perfectly captures the personalities they built up over the previous seasons and the conclusion for each character is wonderfully fitting without any cheesey happy endings (not that it's all miserable by any means).
Wish I could watch it for the first time again. Enjoy nitin.
Yay
#3013 posted by Spirit [213.39.223.12] on 2009/09/14 21:45:08
I just watched Rio Bravo (1959)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005322...
Western with action, love, good chuckles and an overall very high feel-good factor. Very very good.
Yep
#3014 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/15 02:39:05
one of the goodies, although I still prefer Stagecoach out of all the john wayne westerns. You might enjoy it too spirit.
Will Do, Cheers
#3015 posted by Spirit [213.39.129.189] on 2009/09/15 09:14:40
I definitely need to watch some more John Wayne. Somehow I never really knew about him, sure the name and all, but I watched Rio Bravo without knowing any of the actors. Weird how one can block out things.
Watched The REDUX 3hours 15minutes Version Of......
#3016 posted by RickyT23 [86.136.54.59] on 2009/09/15 10:21:09
Apocalypse Now last night.
OMG soo much better than I remember it! :)))
Spirit
#3017 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/15 10:56:59
also check out some of director Howard Hawks' other stuff like The Big Sleep and Only Angels Have Wings. Not westerns but have all of the qualities you listed above.
ricky, are you one of *those* people that prefer the redux version :)
#3018 posted by Spirit [213.39.129.189] on 2009/09/15 11:12:43
Oh I did watch The Big Sleep and loved it. Gonna get the Angels film too then. Bogart is great (and apparently Howard Hawks too).
Well Heres
#3019 posted by nitin [124.168.1.157] on 2009/09/15 11:32:16
some more Hawks recommendations (in roughly order of quality IMHO) :
To Have and Have Not (also with Bogart)
Red River (also with john wayne)
Bringing Up Baby
His Girl Friday
Twentieth Century
The last 3 are screwball comedies so that may or may not be your thing. But definitely try Angels and the first two above.
Hmm
#3020 posted by nonentity [87.194.146.225] on 2009/09/15 22:36:40
*those* people aye? ;p
...
redux is better tho...
I Dont Rly Know The Difference
#3021 posted by RickyT23 [86.136.54.59] on 2009/09/16 14:48:31
but I know the one I watched was about 3 hours 13 minutes long. Didnt get bored though. Except for maybe the bit in Cambodia with the French folk. Interesting though...... That chick was hot - I wonder what they were somking in that pipe..... ?
Ricky
#3022 posted by nitin [124.168.115.33] on 2009/09/16 15:14:23
the french plantation scene is the biggest difference, plus some other new scenes and rearrangement of old scenes. But that plantation scene is the big difference.
#3023 posted by nitin [124.168.115.33] on 2009/09/18 13:18:27
Elegy (2008) - quite a good little drama with strong performances and a script that starts off fairly predictable but then goes into some unexpected directions. But its really Kinglsey and Cruz that make this with good supporting turns from Patricia Clarkson and Dennis Hopper as well.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt097455...
7/10
Serenity (2005) - havent seen Firefly, the tv show of which this is a spin off, but I thought this was an above average sci fi epic. It seemed a bit rushed in its plotting and characterisation was a bit weak (although I'm assuming the characters are fleshed out in the tv show so they don’t bother building them again for the movie) but it has a memorable villain, a very important component movies like this, and some nifty sequences.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt037978...
5.5/10
Fighting Elegy (1966) - Seijun Suzuki's bizarre, farcical satire of repressed facsist youth in 1930's japan is definitely an entertaining film, if not a cohesive one. Anything that can juggle cartoonish sound effects, brutal action, stoned continuity, split screens, sudden fits of slapstick and still has something to say about conformity and militarism is worth a watch.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006058...
6.5/10
Deception (1946) - decent 40's melodrama with Claude Rains and Bette Davis carrying the show. Rains is deleciously over the top as a grand, tyrannical, jealous composer who hates giving Davis' character up to her former lover who has just returned from Europe at the end of the war. Mind games ensue and while the result is less than convincing, its definitely a very watchable and reasonably entertaining ride.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt003846...
6.5/10
Delhi 6 (2009) - good bollywood film with a rubbish ending that undoes a lot of good work but until then it’s a loosely plotted but pleasantly made look at life in one of Delhi's corners with one particularly interesting theme. On top of that, some of the musical numbers are fantastic and extremely well integrated into the narrative.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt104345...
6/10
In Treatment Season 1 - excellent new show which is effectively 43 episodes of watching therapy sessions. Although that means 43 episodes set inside a therapist's office with a maximum of three people simply talking throughout each episode, the writing and acting for the majority of the season is of a very high standard. Gabriel Byrne is phenomenal in the main role of Paul, a therapist with a variety of patients but also many troubles of his own. The regular guest stars making up Paul's patients, especially Melissa George and Mia Wasikowska, as well as Dianne Wiest as Paul's own therapist and mentor manage to manage Byrne quite well. It lags a bit in the middle stretch but the start and end more than make up for that.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt083543...
7.5-8/10
True Blood Season 1 - has some very unique and clever ideas and builds on them beautifully for its first 4-5 episodes. Twin Peaks was obviously the reference point as the show abounds in various quirky characters but the show unwisely seems to shift focus onto the characters' lives from episode 6 onwards, leaving behind all the ideas and themes that it successfully built on in the background. I honestly found it quite tedious in the second half, with most the characters serving a plotline rather than the other way around. Overall thoughm its worth a watch, if only for the style along and the first half of the season.
6.5/10
Dollhouse Season 1 - on the other hand, Joss Whedon's new sci fi themed show starts off terribly for the first 4-5 episodes which are self contained. Then it goes into overdirve until the final episode, concentrating more on the major story arc than the week to week stories that dominated the first 4-5 episodes. Its quite strong during this patch, mixing interesting and unique ideas with suspenseful plotting and action. It all leads to final episode which is a bit limp but that is more than made up for with the unaired episode Epitaph One which is set a few years after the current timeline of the regular show. Epitaph One is the best episode of the season and sets up Season 2 very nicely.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt113530...
6.5/10
Weeds Season 4 - Season 3 was a big disappointment and while the first 3-4 episodes of this season promise a return to form, it falls apart totally after that, returning to the same level of silliness that most of season 3 operated on.
6/10 (just)
The Wire Season 4 - best season of drama tv. ever.
10/10
Serenity
#3024 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.7.235] on 2009/09/18 14:01:12
The TV show is much better than the movie, although the movie in and of itself is good, esp. considering that its based on a TV show. Most movies that are spun off TV shows suck.
The problems with Serenity are a) that while it does a good job of introducing the characters and premise, its just not as much fun if you don't know the back story and b), the actors are TV actors. They are great TV actors and it's a fantastic ensemble, but they don't all make the transition to the big screen equally well.
I'm a big fan of Firefly and Serenity and I wish there would be a continuation, but if you liked the movie and are interested, go ahead and watch the show, too. It's also better than Dollhouse in my opinion, which I find interesting but not moving at all. Watching an episode of Dollhouse is fun, but I don't care about any of the characters at all. Not so with Firefly, which after just 14 episodes left a big whole cause I wanted to see more of these characters and their stories.
That Being Said
#3025 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.7.235] on 2009/09/18 14:01:56
go watch BSG. It was the best show on TV. Personally, I found it even better than The Wire.
Sleepy
#3026 posted by nitin [124.168.115.33] on 2009/09/18 15:01:17
yeah been meaning to watch BSG but I was just waiting till my unwatched pile goes down a bit. Which wont happen anytime soon :)
Firefly I can sneak in since its only 14 eps.
As for Dollhouse, I seriously think it would be a much better show if the focus was not on Echo (Dushku) but on Sierra (Lachman). Better actress, more interesting character.
Nitin
#3027 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.37] on 2009/09/18 16:07:23
noooooooo, never watch a movie based on a tv show before the tv show. Firefly is nice.
Sierra?
#3028 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.7.235] on 2009/09/18 16:19:01
Didn't find her to be particularly interesting either. But knowing Joss Whedon, the whole thing might take off in the second season. He's an amazing writer and I'm willing to stick with the show for a while longer.
BSG: Space battles alone are worth it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oF...
What's
#3029 posted by megaman [94.221.104.84] on 2009/09/18 18:32:25
the difference between cinema and tv for actors?
I'm Not An Acting Coach ;-)
#3030 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.7.235] on 2009/09/18 20:16:06
I can just say that in my opinion, it's different and that some actors simply don't work quite as well on the big screen for me. Maybe it's got less to do with screen size than with differences in cinematography - scenes, cuts, lighting and such. The scripts are different, there is less time to establish a character in a movie than there is in a TV show.
Take Nathan Fillion, the Firefly lead, for example. I liked him very much in the TV show, but he didn't do as well in his movies in my opinion. That may have to do with the scripts and other factors, but even in Serenity, I found him to fall a little flat when compared to other actors, esp. Summer Glau and Chiwetel Ejiofor, who stole the show. He was good, just not as good as in the TV show.
BTW
#3031 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.7.235] on 2009/09/18 20:18:12
Best actor in firefly was Richard Brooks, who played Jubal Early the bounty hunter in the final episode "Objects in Space". What a great performance (fantastic script also). It remains my favorite episode.
#3032 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/09/18 21:02:54
jubal early was a strange character. that scene where there are short cuts to him making faces is creepy.
firefly was awesome for blowing away typical sci-fi and action tropes. i remember laughing out loud watching episode 13, where they're being chased on a planet and wash takes the ship into a canyon independance day style to try to loose them. they're crowing on the bridge 'they're not behind us anymore' and then wash looks up and the bad guy is just flying above them, outside of the canyon where they would be easily seen.
re 3028: i think that battle scene is what sold me on the rest of the series. it was well put together with a realistic look to it. not to mention the 'documentary style' camera movement is something i like a lot.
Are You Alliance?
#3033 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.37] on 2009/09/18 21:33:57
Rawr!
I love the episode too.
#3034 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/09/19 00:15:55
yeah, that line too. it really moved early away from the typical villain. the way he interpreted that question was just strange. i mean honestly, who would think someone is asking if they are a lion. o.o;
District 9
#3035 posted by megaman [94.221.104.84] on 2009/09/19 01:39:59
Uh. What the hell?! It's like they took a good story idea/execution/direction and then let Peter Jackson fart all over it. It has soldiers with no hair but red mustaches and ak47s shooting aliens in sets lit in green and blue! (yes, inside the crashed shuttle)
Can he please stop making movies, or go back to c-movie-splatter-fun?
Well, it's not that bad, but without the jacksoness it could've been a good movie.
Oh, to the writer: it's perfectly possible to locate cellphones even when you are not currently on the phone/speaking
Also
#3036 posted by megaman [94.221.104.84] on 2009/09/19 01:41:13
After watching it, I'm in fear that my lady-friends extremities start to explode when I touch them.
Tv Vs Cinema
#3037 posted by nitin [124.168.115.33] on 2009/09/19 02:27:26
for me, the main difference in acting style is that generally tv has a lot of closeups and most tv actors tend to do everything with their face (and sometimes overact as a consequence too). So when they get to a movie, they still try to just use their face even when the shots are longer which does not always work.
Take Chiwetel Ejiofor in Serenity, half of why why he is so good in that film is because of his body language and the way he moves.
ZOMBIELAND YES
#3038 posted by Zwiffle [67.53.156.12] on 2009/10/04 01:05:44
Awesome.
Zwiffle
#3039 posted by R.P.G. [72.66.0.138] on 2009/10/04 01:21:03
I want to see that. Why didn't you invite me to go with you?
#3040 posted by Zwiffle [67.53.156.12] on 2009/10/04 02:29:39
Because my dad invited me for my birthday! Don't worry we can go see Capitalism: A Love Story or potentially Gentlemen Broncos.
District 9
#3041 posted by ijed [190.20.84.85] on 2009/10/04 15:21:59
I liked it.
Mr. T Rocks
#3042 posted by sock [92.249.164.198] on 2009/10/05 11:19:48
Saw Cloudy with a chance of meatballs in 3d at the weekend and the character Mr T does the voice for was awesome :)
Everyone needs a monkey translater device!
I Wanna See CWACOMs
#3043 posted by meTch [64.148.34.191] on 2009/10/07 00:06:17
i used to read that book all the time when i was like 3
This Is Copynpasted From Irc
#3044 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.36] on 2009/10/17 23:20:27
Monsters vs Aliens
rather nice movie, some great cgi, some stupid stuff, good jokes, not something i would let my 6 year old kids see for HEAVENS SAKE.
PS: if only this movie was japanese. it is full of just-almost-upskirt tease
I Wonder If Nitin Has Seen This One...
#3045 posted by Shambler [194.82.40.11] on 2009/10/20 13:27:48
Date Movie
I was forced to watch this the other night as part of caring for a sick friend, and jesus fucking shit on a stick it is unimaginably, incomprehensibly and indescribably atrocious. I honestly didn't know it was possible to make films this bad and I am not at all happy that this film proved the depths of crass, pointless, and unutterably unamusing rubbish that films can sink to. Everyone involved in it should have been ground down and turned into dog food - budget discount dog food at that - including Alyson fucking Hannigan, this has completely ruined my crush on her. Cunts.
There aren't enough negative numbers in the world to give this film a score, but as a token gesture:
-10¹°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°° / 0
Then U Might Not Want To See..
#3046 posted by meTch [72.10.122.69] on 2009/10/20 14:16:33
epic movie
scary movie 1-6
not another teen movie
and uuuh..there is others
and they all suck
#3047 posted by RickyT23 [86.151.228.238] on 2009/10/20 14:37:37
Have you seen "Dont Be A Menace To South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood"? (or whatever it's called):
Similar but way funnier IMHO, Wayans Bros. at their best. I mean the lead character is called Ashtray and his dad is 2 years older than him. Riiiiiiight.....
Bler
#3048 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/10/20 15:09:27
Any friend who wants you to watch Date Movie deserves to die from Swine Flu, so you should have just let this imaginary friend of yours die a slow horrible death.
Shambles
#3049 posted by nitin [220.107.28.193] on 2009/10/20 15:57:15
no I havent :)
But on another note, to make you feel better about films, can I suggest There Will be Blood if you havent seen it already. Not the sort of movie I imagine you would normally watch, but coming off Date Movie, anything goes :)
Or if you dont mind slightly older stuff, The Duellists (late seventies).
and ricky, wayan bros at their "best"??
Nitin.
#3050 posted by Shambler [146.191.228.22] on 2009/10/20 16:43:37
You need to. Please. But make sure you download/steal it.
Cinema is looking quite promising for entertainment coming up - that Terry Gilliam thing, 9, Wild Things, also 2012 looks okay for a laugh.
#3051 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2009/10/20 16:44:54
Wild Things, actually not so much...
http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Mo...
#3052 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/10/20 17:02:39
Yeah, Where the Wild Things Are was really bad. It was boring, because there was no point to the story. Spoiler alert, but absolutely nothing gets resolved. The kid throws a temper tantrum, and at the end gets rewarded with chocolate cake. A huge waste of time.
9
#3053 posted by Vigil [89.27.18.174] on 2009/10/20 22:49:21
... was a very big disappointment. The animation is cool, and that's about it. The plot doesn't really know what it's aiming for, there are a couple of [i]very[/i] tacky scenes, the conflict between the different characters is mostly just stupid, and the characters themselves are very forgettable.
Ohhh
#3054 posted by Vigil [89.27.18.174] on 2009/10/20 22:50:00
func_tags, they're killing me. Damn.
Have Heard That 9 Is Just Pretty Animation
#3055 posted by nitin [220.107.24.180] on 2009/10/21 00:52:52
and theres been mixed response to wild things, but I still want to see both.
Hmmm.
#3056 posted by Shambler [146.191.228.22] on 2009/10/22 17:50:39
Useful to know.
#3057 posted by Spirit [213.39.211.171] on 2009/10/24 14:28:43
Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009)
One of the worst movies I ever saw. Don't watch this crap.
OK Watching Some Crappy Movie Called
#3058 posted by RickyT23 [82.12.238.142] on 2009/10/25 19:18:00
"Feast" 2005
Heh - the first thirty minutes made my GF puke for real!
Havent seent he end yet, but for a low budget Dusk till Dawn-esque gore fest, thi seems pretty entertaining :D
OK Well Feast 2 Was Less Good
#3059 posted by RickyT23 [86.151.228.238] on 2009/10/26 12:19:07
and completely rediculous. Theres a bit where a moster eats a live baby. ewww
Also Spirit
#3060 posted by RickyT23 [86.151.228.238] on 2009/10/26 12:20:07
I think I managed about the first 15 minutes of Paul Blart: Mall Cop and had to turn it off cause it was awful!
#3061 posted by starbuck [98.210.85.83] on 2009/10/31 04:18:25
I love how you watched a literally vomit inducing gore-fest, were compelled to watch the sequel, and endured a live baby being eaten, but Paul Blart: Mall Cop was wayyyy over the line. From the trailer, that seems believable enough.
#3062 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/10/31 04:31:51
i believe there's a 3rd feast? or was it some other crappy horror series? :P
Yeah Theres A Third Feast
#3063 posted by RickyT23 [82.25.182.231] on 2009/10/31 17:07:01
Watched that too. It picks up exactly where Feast 2 leaves off (they must have made them at exactly the same time) theres a 5 minute overlap.
The third one sucks just as hard as the second one but its fucking hilarious. Theres a character in it called Jean Claude Segal.....
And it has a weird nonsensical ending. You have to watch it just for that "WTF?!?!?!?!?" factor :D
#3064 posted by necros [99.227.133.158] on 2009/10/31 19:46:42
Jean Claude Segal
that's pure win, right there. XD
Jean Claude Segal
#3065 posted by nitin [218.42.122.101] on 2009/11/01 15:21:06
hang on, is there a plank of wood available that can do this?
#3066 posted by Spirit [213.39.223.164] on 2009/11/03 21:58:11
Up
Hm, I do not recommend it. After a very sad start it gets some good fun going but then soon has wasted its (low) energy and goes into unsatisfying mediocrity. Some very stupid plot things. Whatever.
Re: Up
#3067 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2009/11/03 22:29:30
I liked up a lot, I thought it was one of the best movies I've seen in theatres in a while, and Pixar's best, with Cars being the only Pixar movie I haven't seen. I DO recommend it. And I spit on Spirit.
:P *** <---SPITTLE
Yeah
#3068 posted by Bal [90.2.96.75] on 2009/11/03 22:56:55
I spit on Spirit too, Up rocks. =)
#3069 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.79] on 2009/11/04 09:33:58
Zwiffle is from the states and Bal is french, they have no taste!
Tv Shows
#3070 posted by DaZ [80.41.176.130] on 2009/11/05 00:33:25
can anyone recommend a couple of decent tv series? Now that I've finished BSG, got bored of Supernatural, and my interest in Stargate Universe is waning, I need something new to tide me over :)
I heard good things about Dollhouse, anyone seen any episodes and can recommend it? I loved Firefly and this is another Wheadon show right?
Lots of people on here have been praising the The Wire, I had not even heard of it before, anyone care to give a quick synopsis?
Anything else I missed? I'm generally after sci-fi or "spooky" types (think x-files, supernatural etc) but I'll give anything a go :)
#3071 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2009/11/05 00:50:50
The new X-Files = Fringe, pretty decent. The first season is S-L-O-W though, but the 2nd season picks up a bit.
If you can get Sons of Anarchy then totally watch that. Good shit. Accurate portrait of life in America too.
Dexter is also pretty good, but you might find it a bit over dramatic, and imo the 3rd season was kind of stale - it seems to follow a particular formula, which I hope they change for season 4.
There are some others but I can't think of them atm.
Daz
#3072 posted by nitin [122.20.197.100] on 2009/11/05 02:01:42
Dollhouse is average for the first 5 episodes but picks up big time after that, so if you can handle 5 average episodes, go for it.
The Wire is a show set in Baltimore and basically examines, amongst other things, the drug trade from all angles. But it does a lot more than that. I have one more season to go, but its probably close to the best tv Ive seen so far.
Also, see upcoming review, but The Middleman is a nice fun series in the campy sci fi senseibility.
If you havent seen Carnivale, go for that too, brilliant show.
Been Behind For A While
#3073 posted by nitin [122.20.197.100] on 2009/11/05 11:35:39
but had some spare time on the train :
The Middleman: Season One (and only) – Fresh and original show that was unfortunately cancelled way too early. Sure, some episodes have ideas are far more inspired than the actual execution but on the whole this series provided frequently entertaining and hilarious entertainment.
The premise of the show is not too dissimilar to something like Men in Black but it’s a lot less self conscious in terms of style and more in tune with old school campy sci-fi. Also, the casting is quite spot on with the leading players getting good support from the rest of the cast.
Favorite episodes included the 1984esque parallel dimension final episode and the hilarious episode involving Vladdy the vampire puppet.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt112277...
7/10
Entourage Season 5 – once again, another bunch of entertaining yet instantly forgettable episodes (although scenes with Turtle and Meadow Soprano are excruciating).
6.5/10
Maqbool (2003) – Vishal Bhardwaj’s stunning adaptation of Macbeth set in the Mumbai underworld. Its surprisingly faithful and also throws in a few well done nods to The Godfather. As is usual with Bhardwaj, dialogue is fantastic and is carried off with panache by two of India’s best actors, Irfan Khan and Tabu.
Doesn’t quite have the technical virtuosity of his later Omkara (an Othello adaptation) but makes up for it by being far grittier and raw in its execution.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt037937...
7.5/10
Kaminey (2009) – Vishal Bhardwaj’s most recent feature is an attempt to mix Bollywood with Tarantino and Guy Ritchie. The result is not altogether successful, with too many subplots and characters taking away from the main arc which is handled quite well (with surprisingly good performances from the usually average Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra). But its another stunningly shot film by Bhardwaj’s new cinematographer, Tassaduq Hussain, and some of the dialogue is upto Bhardwaj’s usual high standard.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt127429...
6.5/10
Reds (1981) – Fabulous film with an epic scope and reach that is unlikely to be replicated anytime soon (if at all). It is also a biopic that does more than just go through the most important events in its subject’s life.
Warren Beatty directs, produces and stars in the story about American John Reid, a journalist who covered the Russian Revolution first hand and unsuccessfully tried to bring the same ideology to the US. Its not a film concerned with politics, although Reid’s fascination with communism is the core, but simply uses it to chart one man’s dream turned obsession turned disappointment.
Against all this, but in no way less important, are Reid’s relationships with American playwright Eugene O’Neill (Jack Nicholson) and fellow journalist Louise Bryant (Diane Keaton). Beatty directs all of this with supreme confidence, the three hour plus running time whizzed by for me with hardly any dead space. He is ably assisted by some beautiful cinematography from personal favorite Vittorio Storaro and stunning acting performances from all involved, but especially Keaton and Nicholson. Their scenes together are classic cinema.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008297...
8/10
[REC] (2007) – reasonably effective if unoriginal zombie movie from Spain with the novelty factor being that rather than people trapped inside and being attacked from outside, the people and the zombies are trapped inside. It allows for some spooky moments, none more so than towards the end, but there is a feeling of being there done that to the whole thing.
Nevertheless, it does one thing most recent Hollywood horror films fail to do, by having characters that are not so annoying that actually want them to be killed by whatever is chasing them.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt103898...
6.5/10
District 9 (2009) – Hmm, I thought it abandoned a great premise after about 20 min and settled to be a simple chase film after that point, but it was definitely very well made for what it eventually was. Enthralling, entertaining and fun, even if it let a greater opportunity slip by.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt113660...
7-7.5/10
Some More
#3074 posted by nitin [122.20.197.100] on 2009/11/05 14:24:05
The Edge of Love (2008) – billed as a semi-biopic of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, it is anything but, instead focusing on the two ladies in Thomas’ life during WWII, played here by Keira Knightley and Sienna Miller.
I have a feeling this will only be favourably looked upon by those unfamiliar with Thomas’ work or life (like me) because then they can focus on two fine acting performances from Miller and Knightley and some sublime photography rather than what is missing from the movie in relayion to Thomas. Even if you can do that though, it still does not come together as a whole with unecessary time given to another subplot that seems tacked on.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt081971...
6.5/10
Kid Galahad (1937) – entertaining if predictable crime/boxing drama with a cast on top of its game: Edward G Robinson, Humphrey Bogart and Bette Davis. Michael Curtiz keeps the whole thing going at a good pace and overcomes the slightly ridiculous premise.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt002908...
7/10
Gran Torino (2008) – I think this was on par with Eastwood’s other film from the year, Changeling, rather then being superior. Both are well made films with problems, in this case there is some rather amateurish acting from the asian cast, some unconvincing acting from most the Western cast except Eastwood himself, and a rather pat ending.
In amongst all that though is an entertaining and pleasant drama, albeit one which never really kicks out of first gear.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt120548...
7/10
Empire of Passion (1978) – beautifully shot but rather emotionally cold kwaidan (ghost story) by Japanese director Nagisa Oshima. The setup is great and possesses a darker twist to the genre than usual but it ultimately fails because you just don’t care for the central characters and what happens to them. Oshima’s direction is far too detached and clinical and while this suits some of the later supernatural scenes well, it just doesn’t do justice to the majority of the film.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt007713...
5.5/10
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) – the decidedly average movie about Benjamin Button might be a more apt title, with hardly anything worth mentioning after 2.5 hrs have passed. The script by Forrest Gump scribe Eric Roth is glib, uninteresting and ultimately concerned with shoving as many events in Button’s life as possible into the runtime, forgetting to make any of them count.
Brad Pitt seems miscast, not really getting into the role at all, and whilst Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton inject some much needed life into the movie, their characters’ roles and screentime needed to have been expanded.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt042171...
5.5/10
The Lower Depths (1957) – not vintage Kurosawa, its almost a little too rigid in its presentation and does not have the vitality and energy of his best films, but this adaptation of Gorky’s play is still quite a solid film with fine ensemble performances and an interesting transplantation of the setting from 19th century imperial Russia to the slums of Edo period Japan.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005033...
7/10
Homicide (1991) – One of David Mamet’s best films, even with its share of problems. It has a little trouble connecting its main plotline which concerns an identity troubled jewish homicide detective (an excellent Joe Mantegna) and his subsequent obsessive investigation into the murder of an elderly jewish woman with an ongoing investigation involving a drug bust. Also, the ending, as good as it is, throws up a number of logical inconsistencies.
But to counter all that, this has fabulous dialogue, some very interesting characterisations and gorgeous camerawork by the great Roger Deakins.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt010204...
7/10
And More Yet
#3075 posted by nitin [122.20.197.100] on 2009/11/05 14:26:35
Une Femme Mariee (1964) – Godard at his most trite, this is the sort of pseudo-intellectual social commentary lite movie that gives art films a bad name. Raoul Coutard does some great stuff behind the camera but it cant save an otherwise dull and overly pompous film.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005870...
4/10
The Red Shoes (1948) – Another quality film by Powell and Pressburger, one of their most famous, and whilst I do not personally consider it one of their best, its still damn fine filmmaking. Using the Hans Christian Andeson short story as a basis for a film about a ballet dancer and her tempestuous relationship with her trainer, it also features the same short story as the ballet performance that is the 15 minute centerpiece of the film.
And that 15 minute sequence is movie magic, a complete lesson in all aspects of cinematography by the great Jack Cardiff. And whilst it is not the only great scene in the movie (it has several), it is definitely the most memorable.
However, against all that, I felt that the main plotline was not effectively executed, especially towards the end when it felt a bit rushed and forced. But most definitely a memorable film.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004072...
7-7.5/10
Act of Violence (1948) – top shelf film noir from Fred Zinneman that cuts out all the fat and has a straightforward and very lean narrative brought to life by good acting and superb cinematography. Van Heflin and Janet Leigh play a couple whose tranquil life is upset when Robert Ryan’s character arrives on the scene and starts stalking them for an initially unknown reason.
The movie is all forward motion right from the start with hardly a scene wasted. And like most good noirs, there is a lot more going on under the surface than is first apparent.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004108...
7.5/10
Mystery Street (1950) – film noir crossed with police procedural, it almost feels like a 50 yr old CSI episode. But thankfully one that is not obsessed with stupid wisecacks and dull process but with interesting characters, atmosphere and clever dialogue. Nothing special overall, but hugely entertaining.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004277...
6.5-7/10
Control (2007) – this is a strange one, a biopic about Joy Division lead singer Ian Curtis that eschews conventional biopic format (ie just following events in the subject’s life) and focuses more on the character themselves (which is what I prefer). But strangely, I thought it went too far in concentrating on the character and did not make sufficient connection with the events in his life, almost relegating them to the sidelines.
But its superbly acted all round especially by the leads Sam Riley and Samantha Morton, has some very welcome and delicious british humour and is stunningly shot in black and white by Anton Corbijn who was previously a photographer.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt042108...
6.5-7/10
Luck by Chance (2009) – pleasant film that takes a light stab at the filmmaking industry that is Bollywood with charming performances and some hilarious scenes. But for what it is, a fairly unsubstantial dissection of the Indian movie industry, its far too long. It either needed to lose half an hour or add more dramatic weight to its plotting.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt088653...
6/10
Europa (1991) – Before Lars Von Trier went all dogma, he actually used to make proper films. Although ‘proper’ is probably not the most appropriate term for this bizarre Kafka influenced film set in immediate post WWII Germany, shot in alternating black & white and colour, and defying conventional narrative form. But its proper in the sense that it pays as much attention to cinematic language than it does to the story and acting. And how.
At times pompous, at times moving, at times spectacular, this is a one of a kind film, unique in its look, unique in its tone and unique in its vision. More of this please Mr Von Trier.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt010182...
7.5-8/10
Bloody Hell.
#3076 posted by Shambler [212.183.134.129] on 2009/11/06 11:40:29
Guess it is quite a long train journey from Oz to Japan though...
Shambler
#3077 posted by nitin [219.105.47.179] on 2009/11/06 14:56:41
have more but didnt want to post 3 in a row :)
The Far Country (1954) – another fine western from the Anthony Mann/James Stewart collaboration, faltering only at the end for me when it became a little unconvincing. Until then, this was a brilliant film with some of the finest location photography to ever grace a western.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004805...
7-7.5/10
Stagecoach (1939) – I have a hard time liking John Ford’s westerns, most of them are either ruined by inane humour or held back by fairly standard characterisations and plotting. But this one I had no problems with.
The characterisations are very strong right from the beginning, the humour is actually funny and does not interrupt narrative flow and the gradual buildup pays off superbly with great action sequences. And from the very first frame, this is lit and composed magnificently.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt003197...
7.5/10
Prague (2006) – Another searing and moving recent Danish film with another great performance by Mads Mikkelsen. The movie focuses on a Danish couple traveling to Prague where the father of Mikkelsen’s character has recently died. What follows is an intense and interesting exploration of identity and various forms of relationships, all set against the glorious backdrop of Prague itself.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt085597...
7.5/10
The Great Lie (1941) – surprisingly terrible melodrama, I was expecting more from a movie featuring Bette Davis and Mary Astor but the stupid plotting and characterisation works against the two great actresses.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt003367...
4/10
The Little Giant (1933) – Charming and pleasant comedy of manners starring Edward G Robinson and Mary Astor. Robinson plays a gangster, as he pretty much always did, posing as an upper class socialite to escape police attention. The plotting is ludicrous but Robinson and Astor work really well together and make the most of some clever dialogue.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt002426...
6.5/10
The Man in the White Suit (1951) – Very subtle british comedy with Alec Guiness in fine form as a lab assistant who creates a material from which clothes can be made that never need to be washed/cleaned. His attempts to make the material available commercially encounter various obstacles from the unions, clothing manufacturers and other scientists.
Ingenious premise and plotting but the execution was a little too subtle and quaint for my on personal taste.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004487...
6/10
Om Shanti Om (2007) – very big budget Bollywood film that pretty much represents the epitome of the typical blockbuster Bollywood film: overdramatic and nonsensical plot, ridiculous overacting from the leads, gorgeous cinematography with stunning use of colour and well choreographed song and dance numbers but which disrupt narrative flow.
Not really my type of thing, but it had me entertained till about the halfway mark, after which it got more and more tedious.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt102494...
5.5/10
Jhoom Bharabar Jhoom (2005) – see above, pretty much the same but there is an extended 30 min song and dance sequence towards the end that is just brilliantly choreographed.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt083347...
5.5/10
Speaking Of Bollywood
#3078 posted by bear [130.242.7.250] on 2009/11/06 15:29:43
recently saw Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt007566...
Wild story and characters with some visually interesting scenes, a bit uneven and sometimes dragging a bit when the musical parts halts the story and go on a bit too long for my taste. Overall a good watch though.
Bear
#3079 posted by nitin [219.105.47.179] on 2009/11/07 00:52:36
yeah that is pretty much representative of most bollywood, but perhaps more entertaining even if its a little more hackneyed than recent stuff.
Proper Comments Later
#3080 posted by nitin [124.148.183.56] on 2009/11/20 15:24:43
but In the Loop is the Spinal Tap of political humour.
#3081 posted by Spirit [213.39.187.146] on 2009/11/27 22:30:09
Nikita
I really did not like how it started but after an hour or so it became good. Shame about the synthesizer soundtrack and sometimes the (rest of the) painfully Eighties-ness. Embassy & Victor, bleh. Ending, well, moving (*sniff*...).
Overall a really cool movie but misses a lot of character. I probably will not watch it again, at least not many times, but still I'd recommend it.
#3082 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.209] on 2009/11/29 14:16:18
Actually Nikita left quite an impression. Nice!
#3083 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.209] on 2009/11/29 14:16:19
Actually Nikita left quite an impression. Nice!
The Wire
#3084 posted by DaZ [80.41.185.119] on 2009/11/29 17:47:54
Thanks to everyone that recommended this, I just finished watching the last episode of season 4 and it was fucking brilliant!
Great characters, acting etc, really can't fault it. I think my favourite had to be Omar the shotgun totting pirate :) You feel me?
If you haven't seen this, check it out!
#3085 posted by Zwiffle [70.92.141.255] on 2009/11/29 19:04:03
Drag Me to Hell - Awesome movie, has that classic Sam Raimi taste to it. Very fun, especially the comical "horror" scenes which Raimi is known for. The movie was so brutal on the poor main character that my dad suggested the Raimis lost a ton of money because of the banking sector collapse and this was their way of venting their anger. They put her through so much shit it's almost unfair, but at the same time a super blast to watch.
Various Nightmare on Elm Street movies - Garbage. The 2nd one seemed to have to deal with nothing but homosexual overtones, the 4th one didn't even try to be scary and was mainly just about killing people in different ways (as are most slasher movies) and in each one the characters were all lifeless, bland 1.5 dimensional bags of meat. Meh. It was pretty awesome to see how bad the times were in the 80s though - fashion and music mainly. Pretty crazy throwback to my child hood, when I actually thought these movies were scary.
Daz
#3086 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2009/11/30 09:26:58
you knwo there's 5 seasons right? I havent seen the fifth one yet, but just checking that you dontmiss out :)
And yeah Omar is great, but my personal favorite is the Bunk.
Zwiffle, I saw Drag Me to Hell a few days ago, dunno didnt like it that much. It was neat and well made but not quite comic enough or scary enough IMHO. Still better than Saw/Hostel 50 and all those other remakes.
What!
#3087 posted by DaZ [80.41.153.92] on 2009/11/30 16:55:16
Nitin you are a life saver!
Have a cookie.
Daz
#3088 posted by nitin [210.84.11.177] on 2009/12/01 14:05:01
also check out Carnivale next if you havent already.
Way Behind In Reviews But Since No One Else Has Commented
#3089 posted by nitin [203.217.83.246] on 2009/12/21 11:53:32
Avatar 3D - Visuals are nice overall, although the live action stuff looks pants in 3d, the depth of field is not right at all and is pretty distracting. But the fully cgi 3d stuff is definitely impressive, the highlight being the dragon flying sequence midway through.
But the scripting, especially the dialogue, is downright atrocious. Think first half of Titanic but delivered by worst actors.
5.5-6/10
I'll Imagine It
#3090 posted by bear [83.233.172.199] on 2009/12/22 15:30:32
delivered by würst actors.
Shit
#3091 posted by Spirit [213.39.129.161] on 2009/12/25 10:09:01
Why did I even bother watching one of the new Scrubs episodes? Now I have to watch them all. They are super super super crap. Save yourself the pain.
Hmm
#3092 posted by nonentity [86.137.44.83] on 2009/12/25 10:21:18
I have exactly the same problem.
And yeh, they're so bad it makes my eyes bleed...
#3093 posted by Zwiffle [70.92.141.255] on 2009/12/26 06:17:05
They're ok. I mean it really isn't the same show, but you know, they try.
Ah yeah it's pretty awful. :(
Scrubs
#3094 posted by nitin [124.168.86.5] on 2009/12/26 11:14:51
was it ever good (ducks for cover)?
City Of Ember
#3095 posted by generic [67.233.153.23] on 2009/12/28 01:15:23
I had the off chance to view this movie over the Christmas holiday and liked it. While it is not the most compelling story, it is visually interesting and imaginative. Found out later the same day that Tim Robbins (who starred in it) and Susan Sarandon split. I need to remind myself give her a call ;-)
Hmm
#3096 posted by nonentity [81.155.121.6] on 2009/12/28 11:39:52
I've worked out why there wasn't a prison series in The Wire.
Watch Oz, it's very, very good. Not as good as The Wire, but pretty close (and a remarkable number of the same actors). About halfway through series 2 atm and absolutely loving it. I fully reccommend.
Hmm
#3097 posted by nonentity [81.155.121.6] on 2009/12/28 11:41:57
Also, Lost fans can have good fun people spotting while watching it. Michael in a wheelchair with dreads being my favourite ;)
Thats One Along With BSG
#3098 posted by nitin [210.84.0.54] on 2009/12/28 14:03:49
I intend to eventually catch up on.
Still Havent Caught Up With Reviews
#3099 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/04 03:19:36
but having finally caught up with most of 2009's releases (that I wanted to see), I was ready to declare that there was no legitimately great film from last year.
But then I saw Up last night, and it was exhilarating. The best Pixar have done since Toy Story 2 and also the best film of the year.
I'm Going To Disagree With That Declaration Of Course.
#3100 posted by Shambler [86.25.221.231] on 2010/01/04 12:40:20
Not least with District 9 + Slumdog Millionare + Watchmen...
Although a brief round-up of 2009 would be entertaining.
Shambler
#3101 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/04 13:22:17
I like all those a lot but wouldnt count them as all time great films, Up easily makes the cut though.
My rough top 10 for the year (Slumdog is 2008) would be something like:
Up
Public Enemies
Flame and Citron
In the Loop
Three Monkeys
The Hurt Locker
Watchmen
District 9
Star Trek
A Serious Man
There's a few more that I want to see that could easily displace at least the last one (Where the Wild Things Are, Up in the Air, The Road).
Hmmm.
#3102 posted by Shambler [86.25.221.231] on 2010/01/04 14:25:05
IMO Slumdog is all time great but okay 2008. Watchmen I think is a bit too specialist, I thought it was great but I can see how some people wouldn't. District 9 I stand by ;).
Give us some predictions for 2010 word.
Also...
#3103 posted by Shambler [86.25.221.231] on 2010/01/04 14:31:04
...rewind to 2006, selecta...
My Top Pick For 2006
#1784 posted by nitin [124.191.216.47] on 2007/02/14 22:30:05
would be The Prestige, marginally ahead of Inside Man, Pan's Labyrinth, Children of Men.
Well, we agree that The Prestige is bloody good then :). I FINALLY got around to seeing it the other day, and it was a mighty classy film with a particularly good escalation of intensity. I do think it's value (and 2006 positioning ahead/behind Pan's Labyrinth) depends quite a bit on whether one has read the book (it's Christopher Priest's classy tale, BTW): If one HAS read the book then it's a good film, if one HASN'T read the book then it's a great film, as it does rely on the classy tale (which isn't that much diluted AFAIK, and I forgot one of the twists anyway).
All good stuff.
Havent Read The Book
#3104 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/04 15:19:42
but with adaptations I dont try to take the book into account. Case in point is LOTR, great great books, not as great films in comparison but easily great films in their own right.
As for 2010, I'm tipping Inception to rock since Christopher Nolan's record speaks for itself (Memento, Batman Begins, Dark Knight, Prestige and Insomnia).
And Shutter Island could also be cool if Scorsese is in the right frame of mind.
I Quite Liked
#3105 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.120.56] on 2010/01/04 16:11:27
Inglorious Basterds, that was a good movie IMO. Better than Star Trek. Which I liked too, but not as much :D
Nitin
#3106 posted by Tronyn [70.76.34.81] on 2010/01/04 18:46:10
yeah Nolan is amazing - have you seen his first film "Following"? It's really good, shot for $3,000, and it really displays the sort of template for his "smart guys plotting against each other" type of script.
I can hardly wait to see him do something resembling the scifi of 10 years ago with Inception.
Inception?
#3107 posted by Shambler [86.25.221.231] on 2010/01/04 22:39:32
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSy...
I concur.
Shamb:
#3108 posted by bear [130.242.7.250] on 2010/01/05 01:42:42
What's so damn good about slumdog? I'd much rather place it in most over rated movie instead of any kind of best of.
Nah
#3109 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/05 02:37:02
Slumdog is excellent but I wouldnt call it a great film personally.
Tronyn, been trying to get my hands on a decent dvd of Following for a while now. I think one's due out this year sometime so will keep hoping.
As for IB, my comments are above, but basically good movie hampered by poor pacing and a shit ending.
Question
#3110 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/05 11:58:47
anyone seen the french horror film Maryrs? If so, thoughts?
I initially thought it was very good for the first 2/3 but then bit off more than it could chew. But it has stuck in my head for two weeks now and that doesnt happen all that often.
The Road
#3111 posted by Shambler [86.25.221.231] on 2010/01/05 13:04:31
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbL...
Just read the book, didn't like the writing style BUT it's still a very good book, captivating, grim, and gripping. The film looks rather good and mostly looks very true to the book and atmosphere EXCEPT for hyping up the human conflict in it. I reckon it will be a good un.
On the polar opposite end of the scale, Slumdog, well it was stylish, well filmed, great soundtrack, good blend of Asian / Western styles, some good little touches throughout, and overall just really entertaining.
The Guy Who Made The Road
#3112 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/05 13:30:08
his last film, The Proposition, was very nice. Looking forward to it.
Martyrs
#3113 posted by Drew [70.53.225.156] on 2010/01/05 14:48:07
Over rated. I pretty much agree with you regarding the last third of the movie - some great parts up until then, but the end was pretty goofy - Then again, I don't like it when Horror movies get too ambitious - they always seem pedantic when that happens.
When it comes to french horror, I definitely prefer Inside.
PS - boo slumdog. seriously.
Inside
#3114 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/05 15:27:39
is on the to watch last. High Tension is still the one for me (provided I turn off 10 min before the end).
Watched Pandorum And Gamer
#3115 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.120.56] on 2010/01/05 15:56:09
Pandorum - Actually surprised me a bit - worth a watch if you like Sci Fi - interesting twist at the end.
Gamer - Predictable, but fun-ish. Some amusing parts. Some terrible acting made the regular acting in it look good.
Both had OK/good special effects which kinda helped :D
Slumdog
#3116 posted by bear [130.242.7.250] on 2010/01/05 15:57:56
For me it had a couple of strong scenes and that's pretty much it, as for stylish I have to say I found the style appalling even if there might have been a point in matching the style of the tv-show.
The Road
#3117 posted by Bal [81.249.78.21] on 2010/01/05 19:42:20
I was pretty hyped for this movie, and I ended up hating it. It was quite boring and felt completely pointless, a few of the scenes were ok, but I was just waiting for it to pickup, and then it ended instead (the end was particularly MEH).
#3118 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2010/01/05 19:44:53
Had you read the book beforehand?
Willem
#3119 posted by Bal [81.249.78.21] on 2010/01/05 21:52:54
No, maybe it's better? Is it much different?
It's quite strange, it had many things I enjoy, I like brooding dark movies, and post-apoc stuff, and to be fair the acting was pretty good, but I just really did not like it.
#3120 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2010/01/05 21:54:55
It's a taste thing, obviously. The Road is very bleak and not uplifting at all. It's a love/hate thing I've noticed with most people.
Bear
#3121 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/06 02:21:26
it did have non millionaire scenes too you know :)
Btw
#3122 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/06 02:22:07
no other Avatar comments?
If you are going to watch it, it is only a cinema movie as there's not much beyond the visuals.
Avatar
#3123 posted by Drew [70.53.225.156] on 2010/01/06 04:28:11
http://i35.tinypic.com/sor6sj.jpg
I Knew The Story Sounded Familiar....maybe
#3124 posted by meTch [69.183.59.16] on 2010/01/06 05:37:46
but im not going to see it because it looks like something i wouldn't like
I Liked The Road Quite A Bit
#3125 posted by Tronyn [24.78.133.15] on 2010/01/06 06:37:02
and I liked Hillcoat's previous movie The Proposition even more. I'll be keeping track of what he does next.
Haven't seen Avatar, not really interested - the trailer makes it look like Dances with Wolves in space, with really good CGI. Meh. I'm really sick of this whole storyline (ahem, Last Samurai), it's a shitty cliche.
Tronyn
#3126 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/06 07:15:29
yeah its pretty much Dances with Wolves with giant smurfs. And atrocious acting and dialogue.
And apart from one scene, I thought the CGI was not that impressive either.
#3127 posted by metlslime [64.175.155.252] on 2010/01/06 07:32:18
I don't get all these references to Dances With Wolves in space, Fern Gully in space, Last Samurai in space...
It's clearly Dune, but in space.
(haven't seen it yet)
There's Not Much Beyond The Visuals.
#3128 posted by megaman [188.109.37.116] on 2010/01/06 12:11:14
exactly, and don't even try to wonder if those visuals make sense.
It's still great in 3d though :)
CG wise, they took a lot of shortcuts with their materials, I think. All the skin is quite.. diffuse ;-)
The 3d Looks Off
#3129 posted by nitin [210.84.12.6] on 2010/01/06 12:51:09
when there is only live action no? Some weird perspective/depth perception issue (to me anyway). When its totally cgi though, it doesnt seem to be an issue.
Avatar In 3d
#3130 posted by bear [94.255.220.245] on 2010/01/06 16:17:22
I saw it a couple of days ago. The 3D effect is very hit n miss. One of the obvious problems is that the camera has it's (maybe unnecessarily narrow) focus which of course doesn't match your own as your gaze move around the screen, staring at blurry objects in the foreground doesn't look very good. Wonder how much better it would work with a broader depth of field or simply composing your scenes with a stronger focal point (although I suppose that in longer scenes on a big screen your eyes will start to wander still).
As for the movie it feels rather crudely divided into two halves: introducing the world of Pandora and setting the conflict loose.
During the introduction there are visually interesting parts but it fails to engage and feels more like watching a succession of concept art.
Can't help but blame James Cameron for a lack of sensibility as a director, failing to make the slow parts interesting and when it comes to the big conflict and action scenes he feels more at home but still lacks finesse, maxing everything out to the the point of silliness in typical hollywood block-buster style.
In the end I still thought it was worth seeing but perhaps it was mostly due to it being the first modern 3D movie I watch. Personally I'd much rather see a movie concentrating on exploring the 3D movie medium.
They did show the Alice trailer in 3D before the movie and it got me excited about seeing that as the more fantastic imagery should be a better match for the technology.
Otherwise one of the most memorable parts of seeing Avatar was that a friend's seat was missing (he did get another one) and instead there was a knife on the floor...
Avatar
#3131 posted by mwh [118.93.35.143] on 2010/01/06 23:06:43
It was OK, I guess. The plot was super predictable. I thought Sam Worthington's character was quite well done.
Almost the same film with a script written by someone older than 5 could have been really impressive.
I Actually Thought
#3132 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/01/07 00:14:53
zoe saldana came out the best, Worthington was unconvincing to me.
Iron Man 2 trailer is looking good.
Finally Some Reviews
#3133 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/01/07 02:37:28
Stop Loss (2008) – Kimberley Pierce’s Iraq themed film attempts to distinguish itself from other films about the war by limiting its focus on the impact on participating soldiers who have successfully returned back home after serving their time but are forced back due to the Stop-Loss clause in army contracts.
Ultimately though, as reasonably well made as it is, it ends up going through the same stock characters and same stock situations that other war films focusing on soldiers do, offering nothing new in the process.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt048928...
6-6.5/10
Umberto D (1951) – another one of Vittorio De Sica’s neorealist features, this time centring around the life of a lonely and elderly pensioner in 50’s Rome. There are some undeniably great scenes in this but it is also filled with more than its share of rather forced moments. Not quite on the same level as the great The Bicycle Thieves but a worthwhile watch nevertheless.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004527...
7/10
The Watchmaker of St Paul (1974)/b> – amiable but ultimately unsatisfying drama from Bertrand Tavernier focusing on the reaction and impact on the father of an arrested murderer and also his attempts to fathom and understand his otherwise normal son’s actions.
The early scenes are fantastic and economical in their storytelling and impact. Unfortunately, then it starts to drag a little and continues to do so until the ultimately unsatisfying ending.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt007162...
6-6.5/10
Bleak House – impeccably acted and solidly written BBC miniseries of the labyrinthine Dickens novel. It would be even better if the directors had more faith in the material and actors and didn’t feel the need to jazz up proceedings, especially scene transitions, with cheap B horror tricks like swish pans, zooms, rapid cutting and overbearing music. I found some of this really distracting and detracting from the rest of the production which is otherwise first rate.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt044263...
7/10
The Old Maid (1939) - Average melodrama with Bette Davis and Miriam Hopkins. The plotting is a little too contrived and convoluted and although Davis tries her best to overcome the material, Hopkins’ overdramatic histrionics ensures that their scenes together remain strictly in soap territory.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt003175...
5.5/10
Ordet (1955) – I was blown away by Dreyer’s Day of Wrath last year and I was similarly blown away by this, his later film about faith and religion and their inherent hypocrisies.
Dreyer shows two families, one steeped in a fundamentalist faith, the other with a Christian faith that lacks real power or conviction. And without revealing too much of the plot he contrasts both of them with each other, contrasts each of them within themselves, and creates a moody, atmospheric, almost dreamlike rural setting, using light and shadow to contrast life-affirming attitudes with those that deny joy.
And then there’s the ending, one of the most powerful that I have seen and one that is shot with such beauty that it makes you forget you ever saw Transformers 2.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004845...
8.5-9/10
Bloody Tags
#3134 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/01/07 02:38:03
Transformers 2 (2009) – If you made it to the last half hour of the first one, there was at least some reward in a well staged half hour of carnage. There’s no such reward here, its just 2.5 hrs of pure tedium. Sure, the scale of carnage has been upped, particularly for the final showdown (but one where far too much is going on to really be enthralled), but the scale of stupidity for everything else has also been upped dramatically.
Before we see another one, I think someone needs to really address the following question : why do films about fighting robots need to be 2.5 hrs long with subplots about Shia le Boeuf’s parents?
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt105536...
3/10
Terminator Salvation (2009) – Definitely drops the ball, this may as well not be part of the Terminator franchise because apart from a forced cameo near the end, it never feels like part of the same series. Even the unfairly maligned Terminator 3 managed that aspect.
And on its own, without the franchise stamping, its just an average by the numbers post apocalyptic sci-fi flick with bland, interchangeable characters and laughable attempts at establishing emotion.
But there is an action scene for the ages about 1/3 of the way in, the Harvester chase being more thrilling than any other action scene from Hollywood in recent times.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt043848...
5/10
Burn Notice Season 2 – almost on par with Season 1 in terms of quality but longer and more repetitive. Its basically a smarter, more entertaining and character driven version of MacGyver that really needs a change of scene for the new season to keep things interesting (and judging by the ending, we might get it).
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt081078...
6.5/10
It Was Just About Worth Seeing Transformers 2...
#3135 posted by mwh [118.93.35.143] on 2010/01/07 02:47:30
... so you could empathize with some of the terrible reviews it got. "I found it at once loud and boring, like watching paint dry while getting hit over the head with a frying pan" sticks in the memory and http://www.pajiba.com/film_reviews... still makes me laugh.
I was actually more disappointed with Terminator Salvation though, because there was a slim chance it might have been good, and it was just tripe.
Nitin
#3136 posted by Jago [194.86.38.38] on 2010/01/07 17:50:51
Yeah, I too thought that Zoe Saldana stole the show in Avatar.
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh
#3137 posted by Spirit [213.39.203.216] on 2010/01/09 10:47:44
Scrubs. Fuck!
TS -I Liked It. New Direction For The Film.
#3138 posted by RickyT23 [86.27.86.36] on 2010/01/12 21:49:39
I liked it.
Transformers 2
OK, well I think Im missing something here. Why does everybody bust on Machael Bay or whoever he is? From watching TF1 and TF2 (TransFormers that is lol) it would strike me that what is wrong with his directing is that he is too good at it. Perfect infact.
I mean everybody be real here - its a franchise which is and always was aimed at kids. Its a kiddies movie. A very spectacular, fantastic, comic-strip-esque, pobably very difficult to make masterpiece. Everyone just gets all up their own ass busting on the guy cause they are jealous that they didnt get to make it. Or be in it opposite that chick - whatever her name was.
I liked the movie.
TS I had to watch it twice, and watching it at the cinema helped (cause the first copy I saw was a bad CAM version which did it absolutely no justice whatsoever. Infact I had to stop watching it). Good film! I mean they had to do something different with the story a bit or else it just wouldnt work. They need to follow it up now with a film showing what happens in like 2027 - the time that you get to see in T2. Terminator Salvation is about Marcus. Thats who it is about - not John Connor. Some of the imagery in the film is brilliant. Like the Terminator and JC lying on either side of the helicopter near the start.
Meh
#3139 posted by nitin [203.217.65.141] on 2010/01/13 10:47:24
The Reckless Moment (1949) - pretty decent noirish drama from Max Ophuls held together by taut direction and good performances from Joan Bennett and James Mason.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004178...
6.5-7/10
Sabotage (1936) - minor early Hitchcock that lacks a bit of the suspense he was famous for but makes up for it somewhat with the dry british humour that was also his trademark.
Also this is the movie with the 'film is flammable' warning scene that was used in Inglorious Basterds.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt002821...
5.5-6/10
Secret Sunshine (2007) - overly long and slow but fantastically acted korean film about a woman who decides to settle in the hometown of her recently deceased husband. There, she starts to be build a new life (and also learns more about the husband she never really got along with while he was alive) when another tragedy strikes. The rest of the film is about her coping with both events with the assistance of some of the townsfolk and it takes some pretty interesting directions, even though it takes far too long to eventually reach the open ended conclusion.
Still, has some very strong scenes, and the performances, particularly from lead actress Jeon De-Yeon, are stunning.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt081722...
6.5/10
Session 9 (2001) - from what I've seen of him (The Machinist, Transsiberian), director Brad Anderson has his Hitchcock down pat and its again on display here, a moody, brooding slow burn psychological horror film about an asbestos crew working on an abandoned mental hospital with a hidden secret that seems to be surfacing more and more each day.
The film makes great use of its location setting which, combined with the excellent sound design, lends the whole thing a very creepy atmosphere. Unfortunately, the script isnt quite as strong or all that original (an issue for each of Anderson's other films too) but given the lean pickings of quality horror films these days, it's a reasonable effort.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt026198...
6-6.5/10
Splendor in the Grass (1961) - Elia Kazan's tragic love story may appear dated but only if you discount the fact that its actually set in the 1920's and overlook the stunning central performances by Natalie Wood and Warren Beatty. The first few scenes dont really ring true, almost playing like a fairy tale rather than a realistic romance, but the rest of it is stunning stuff, especially the understated final scenes.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005547...
7.5/10
Three Monkeys (2008) - slow but extremely well made Turkish film that manages to successfully get you inside the head of each of its characters even when they are doing mundane things. And once it achieves that, it then successfully manipulates you so that the plotting feels unexpected even though most of it actually isnt.
Focusing on a lower class family in Istanbul, it explores the domino like effect of the father's decision to go to jail on his boss's behalf in exchange for money. Special mention must go to the digitally graded cinematography which plays around with the colour and saturation of each shot to reflect the mood and thoughts of the characters.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt123338...
7.5/10
Ashes of Time Redux Version (2009) - I think that Wong Kar Wai has made 2 great films and a whole bunch of others that vary from being moderately successful to stylish rubbish. And the 2 great films have pretty much been his more recent output which comes across as less fractured, more comfortable with its tone and shot with an actual script.
This particular one is an interesting one because it was made early in Wong Kar Wai's career (1993) but was re-edited and touched up earlier last year. I cant really compare since I havent seen the original version but the redux version definitely feels like the new Wong Kar Wai, to an extent. There are still elements here, mainly stylistic ones, that he coudlnt alter without a complete overhaul but on the whole, it displays the qualities I mentioned above.
So what is it? An existential arthouse historical swordfighting film with all of China's then biggest stars in which there is far more emphasis on mood and posturing than actual fight scenes. But its probably also his best film apart from In the Mood for Love and 2046.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt010968...
6.5-7/10
Carrying On
#3140 posted by nitin [203.217.65.141] on 2010/01/14 08:56:13
Waking Life (2001) â€“ A man shuffles through a lucid dream meeting various people and discussing the meanings and purpose of the universe, all in Richard Linklater's rotoscope animation technology which allows him (as it did in A Scanner Darkly) to render a dreamy landscape where everything is always moving and blending into each other.
But unlike A Scanner Darkly, this is a rather dull, pseudo-intellectual and self-important film that thinks its discussions are more thought provoking than they actually are. Instead, the ideas hardly rise above what philosophy 101 thinkers might talk about if they are high.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt024301...
4/10
Salvador (1986) â€“ Oliver Stone's not so subtle condemnation of US involvement in the 1980 military dictatorship of El Salvador turns out better than it should thanks to a tremendous performance by the great James Woods as a slimy, self serving reporter for hire who undergoes a predictable but very believable transformation as he covers the horrific events. Woods is terrific, selling ever scene he is in and covering some of the contrivances in the script and the otherwise sledgehammer direction by Stone.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt009188...
7/10
In the Loop (2009) â€“ the funniest film from last year, a zippy political satire done UK Office and anti West Wing style with pitch perfect performances and a constant stream of drab one liners that are hilarious and pithy. The only shame is the overused quasi-documentary format that makes it look like an overblown tv show episode rather than an actual film.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt122677...
7.5/10
Becket (1964) â€“ Overlong but engrossing film about the friendship and eventual clash between King Henry II and Thomas Becket. Director Peter Glenville has a very sparse style and spends far too much time fawning over his locations but whenever the focus is on the two main performers, the superb Peter O'Toole and Richard Burton respectively, it is borderline brilliant. Some of O'Toole's rants are classic scenes, you never quite know which syllable he is going to explode on and who on screen his wrath will be directed at next.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005787...
7-7.5/10
The Thomas Crown Affair (1968) â€“ rewatch, and its still only above average. There's some good scenes and the characterisations are pretty good (as are both Steve Mcqueen and Faye Dunaway) but the tone is all over the place and it never quite knows what it wants to be. Reminded me a little that way of the recent Duplicity (review later) which had the same problems.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006368...
5.5-6/10
Veronika Voss (1982) â€“ Reiner Werner Fassbinder seems to excel at taking famous classic american films and putting them through a german filter to come up with strong, unique films that work as homages but which are capable of also standing on their own. In fact, when he tackled Douglas Sirk's All that Heaven Allows in Ali : Fear Eats the Soul he came up with an arguably superior movie in all aspects.
This, his reworking of Billy Wilder's Sunset Boulevard, through a post-war german filter, is most definitely not a better film than Wilder's masterpiece but its still an excellent one. Although the story is effectively the same, a journalist meets and is intrigued by a former popular actress who is now a hermit, the characterisations have been changed to allow them to represent the various components of society in post war Germany. It goes into some pretty dark areas and the stark black and white photography also lends it a noirish tone and mood, but most the credit lies with Fassbinder's script and the strong lead performances.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008465...
7.5/10
Wolverine (2009) â€“ not as terrible as I was expecting but it never rises higher than the above average category. Pretty well paced but theres far too many peripheral and inconsequential characters whose screen time would have been better utilised by giving the more relevant characters more meat. Some of the effects work is also a little shoddy but on the whole, its ok for what it is and never for a second pretends to be anything otherwise.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt045852...
5.5-6/10
In The Loop
#3141 posted by Preach [94.169.109.218] on 2010/01/14 09:52:15
If you enjoy In the Loop, you might also want to check out a BBC series called The Thick Of It. It's a series produced by the same team behind the film, half-hour episodes with a few hour long specials. The style is very similar, although it only features the UK side of things. Many of the same actors appear in both, although the only one playing the same character is Peter Capaldi as Malcolm Tucker.
In the same way that the film resembled a fictional take on a real political story, some of the events in the show do reflect things that happened in politics recently(although as a regular TV series, it plays at a smaller scale than the film does). So it's possible that it's more fun when you know what they're really driving at, but I'm sure it's enjoyable universally.
Preach
#3142 posted by nitin [203.217.65.141] on 2010/01/14 12:05:50
yep, found that on wiki. Mean to check it out eventually.
Some More
#3143 posted by nitin [203.217.65.141] on 2010/01/15 10:54:46
Bad Day at Black Rock (1955) – taut, tense, character driven drama-thriller with Spencer Tracy and Robert Ryan about a one armed man who arrives in a remote and tiny american town that is hostile towards any visitors. The plotting's a little dated now but everything else about this film from John Sturges is exemplary.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004784...
7.5/10
The International (2009) – decent conspiracy thriller starring Clive Owen and Naomi Watts. Its not very original in terms of themes but the performances are good, the pacing is spot on, there is actual suspense and its phenomenally shot. Director Tom Tykwer appears to be struggling between making a more realistic thriller and delivering a mainstream blockbuster at the same time, but overall there's more good here than bad.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt096317...
6.5-7/10
Marked Woman (1937) - horribly dated "gritty" crime-courtroom drama with an uninterested Humphrey Bogart and a completely miscast Bette Davis. I couldn’t find any redeeming qualities in this dud.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt002921...
3.5-4/10
The Return (2003) - amazing debut film from russian director Andrei Zvyagintsev whose love for perfectly planned compositions and slow tracking shots is reminiscent of his other russian namesake filmmaker, the great Andrei Tarkovsky. And like Tarkovsky, this movie has imagery that burns itself into your memory and an ending that may or may not alter everything that went before.
The father of two boys, who has been absent from their lives for 12 years, surprisingly returns and decides to take them on a fishing trip to try and reforge a bond with them. There is not much more plot than that and it is admittedly slow but there is a lot of wonderful characterisation, a lot of devastating emotion, fantastic acting and the imagery mentioned above.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt037696...
7.5-8/10
Stardust Memories (1980) - Woody Allen's version of Federico Fellini's 8 1/2. So instead of getting a crazy, oblique and disjointed trip into Fellini's head, we get one into Allen's.
I've never been a big fan of 8 1/2 which is only really interesting if you are interested in Fellini himself. And it’s the same case here, unless you really want to know about Allen's life, loves and inspirations, most of this is not all that interesting beyond the amazing camerawork. I say most, because like 8 1/2, there are a handful of scenes that are very funny and a couple of others that are quite poignant regardless of your interest in the director.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008155...
5.5/10
Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na (2008) - above average bollywood romantic comedy that is actually watchable thanks to its charming, if amateurish, leads and some half decent writing. Unfortunately its far too long for the lightweight fluff that it still makes for a pleasant distraction.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt047336...
5.5-6/10
The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970) - not one of Sam Peckinpah's best films but still a pretty good one. The opening half an hour is brilliant as Jason Robards' hobo is left for dead in the middle of a desert and accidentally stumbles upon a water spring and decides to profit from the situation by creating a water station on a popular travel route. Peckinpah is at his best during this section of the film, objectively filming the harsh realities of life in the old west but with an admiration of the courage that went with it. However, its not quite so good once a love story is introduced or when it veers off into a revenge tale in the last act.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006544...
6.5/10
The Hangover (2009) - above average comedy that runs out of steam well before the rubbish ending but is kept afloat most the way by a fine ensemble cast that have great chemistry between them.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt111964...
6/10
The International
#3144 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.120.56] on 2010/01/15 11:38:41
I really like Clive Owens movies on the whole, but this just bored me. I tried to watch it twice, but its just not very engaging and actually sent me to sleep once. Booooo!
Fair Enough
#3145 posted by nitin [203.217.65.141] on 2010/01/15 11:48:24
I prefer this to the usual action stuff I guess.
Chavatar.
#3146 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.25] on 2010/01/20 23:55:22
Just saw this. I thought it was pretty awesome in it's genre. It promises a cheesy soppy sci-fi spectacle and woe betide you if you expect anything else because it delivers pretty much the pinnacle of that in cinema so far. Basically lots of fancy shit, laid over an entirely generic story - you can't polish a turd but if you gild it enough you can make it look pretty damn cool.
Score: higher than nitin's / 10
P.S.
#3147 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.25] on 2010/01/20 23:56:33
I saw it in 3D at Imax which obviously means I got the full benefit of that fancy shit.
And yes I would bang the princess woman, and yes I want a hammer head rhinocerous.
Avatar
#3148 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.145] on 2010/01/21 00:35:21
As much as I loathe to say this, I pretty much agree with Shambler. The film oozes polish and love, and that's why I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The 3D effects weren't really utilized that well, and with the glasses the movie looked way too dark.
Yeah
#3149 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/01/21 00:44:58
but why does it have to be cheesy? Star Trek (review coming) proved you dont have to be totally dumb to make a sci fi spectacle.
Anyway, what do I know, it will be the biggest movie of all time in a few days.
But Didn't
#3150 posted by ijed [190.20.126.135] on 2010/01/21 00:48:58
They just steal Cartman's Smurfs return to fern gulley idea?
Spose will have to see it now.
Nitin.
#3151 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.25] on 2010/01/21 10:18:55
Lowest common denominator, appeal to the herds. But yes then again Star Trek was a little bit better.
It's a disease of cinema / blockbusters in general...
Speaking Of SF...
#3152 posted by Bal [194.2.155.16] on 2010/01/21 10:36:54
Anyone seen Moon? I really enjoyed it, need more SF like this in cinema, and less crazy aliens with laser guns (or bow and arrows).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twu...
Nope, But Might Do.
#3153 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.25] on 2010/01/21 10:48:49
Also,
http://media.noob.us/avatarpocahon...
:D
Bal
#3154 posted by nitin [210.84.62.224] on 2010/01/21 11:16:46
hopefully arriving tomorrow so that I can watch on the weekend. It looks a little bit 2001 and a little bit Solaris.
Bal
#3155 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.145] on 2010/01/21 11:26:33
I caught it completely by accident while in New York, which was very nice, because it never got a proper theater release here.
Very good, very highly recommended.
Nitin
#3156 posted by Bal [194.2.155.16] on 2010/01/21 12:06:30
Yeah, it's a bit of both, but not quite like either in the end, which is good (both of those are in my favorite movie list, I'm a sucker for SF), can't say more or I'd be spoiling.
Vig yeah I waited a long time for it to come out here (usually most movies get at lease a small release in Paris), but it never came out. Would have really liked seeing it at the cinema. =\
Shambler
#3157 posted by JPL [213.30.158.194] on 2010/01/21 18:58:45
Avatar = Pocahontas bis.... 8|
Damned.. I was about to go seeing it at the cinema.. you just ruined my evening :(
Hmm
#3158 posted by nonentity [79.72.32.110] on 2010/01/21 19:06:18
Wtf are you chatting about? Star Trek was horrible. And got worse the longer you sat through it... At least Avatar has amazing CGI
#3159 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2010/01/21 19:11:43
"Damned.. I was about to go seeing it at the cinema.. you just ruined my evening :("
There are 7 stories in the world. You've seen them all by now. Don't worry about it.
#3160 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2010/01/21 19:19:42
I thoroughly enjoyed Star Trek, I thought it was fast paced and it brought me into the world.
I haven't seen Avatar, and I don't plan to. I am not one who generally gets excited about pure CGI movies (Transformers, ahem) and if the story doesn't look all that good I will probably not bother watching it. 3D effects or not.
Transformers = 11/10
#3161 posted by RickyT23 [82.2.86.167] on 2010/01/21 19:59:55
Star Trek = 6/10 maybe 7
!!!
#3162 posted by RickyT23 [82.2.86.167] on 2010/01/21 20:04:21
http://www.filmschoolrejects.com/r...
#3163 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2010/01/21 21:01:17
The Transformers movies were atrocious. Just horrible. I can't believe anyone but the most hardcore fanboy would like them.
Transformers
#3164 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.145] on 2010/01/21 22:08:44
The reason Michael Bay is such a shitty director isn't because Transformers are movies aimed at kids. It's because he is a shitty director. There's no substance to his movies, and even what he claims to do well, action, is pretty non-engaging and formulaic. Big budget movies where nothing really happens, and even the explosions are a chore to get through.
Last Comment From Me On Avatar
#3165 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/01/22 01:03:13
I dont think its the story that's lacking, theres been many many successfull riffs on the pocahontas story, but the execution.
Michael Bay action scenes are ok sometimes, the problem is he knows only one way to shoot them, most the time so close to the action that you cant really tell or care whats going on, especially with the subwoofer going beserk to drown your ears at the same time.
Ricky
#3166 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.1.51] on 2010/01/22 07:15:06
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irony
Mr Bay
#3167 posted by DaZ [78.147.208.237] on 2010/01/22 09:16:46
I actually find his older films are better... I really enjoyed The Rock, it was a very solid action film!
As for his newer stuff, I also really enjoyed The Island, and I think it got unfairly written off as a "Bay movie" without people giving it a fair chance. Its by no means perfect, and the constant product placement will drive a few people nuts, but the story and characters are a lot deeper than any of his other films that I can think of.
Moon, looks good Bal! Thanks for linking.
Island
#3168 posted by nitin [210.84.62.224] on 2010/01/22 09:36:01
would have been ok if no other sci fi films had ever been made :) too much rippage going on there to get away with.
The Island
#3169 posted by ijed [216.241.20.2] on 2010/01/22 12:44:12
Scarlet Johannsen running around in a tight suit.
Great beer movie.
#3170 posted by nitin [124.168.19.70] on 2010/01/25 10:04:14
Fail Safe (1964) - Sidney Lumet's film about nuclear war came out at the same time as one of Kubrick's highpoints, Dr Strangelove. It suffered in comparison at the time and, looking at it objectively today, it still suffers.
Unlike Kubrick's satire, this is a deadly serious film but apart from a gloomy atmosphere created by the stark black and white cinematography, it has next to no dramatic tension or impact. All very strange considering the filmmaking talent involved and the strong cast, including Henry Fonda and Walter Matthau.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005808...
4/10
Alphaville (1965) - pretty much demonstrates Godard at his best and worst. A deliberately low budget sci if satire with some very clever ideas but also a display of outright contempt for the genre. The basic plot is not all that different from A Brave New World (mixed with a little bit of 1984) set in the titular futuristic city, and when Godard is actually trying he manages to offer some very insightful commentary that is also quite touching.
But, unfortunately, most the time is spent displaying how above the genre and material Godard thinks he is by deliberately going out of his way to break convention and highlight the low budget nature of the movie (eg the main character has to make an intergalactic voyage to Alphaville, which looks a lot like 60's Paris, and he does so by way of what looks a lot like a Ford along a highway, all done with a very straight face).
Credit to the actors for playing along and making it all look believable but a little less self indulgence and ego stroking and a little more respect for the audience would have made for a better film.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005889...
5.5/10
The Young Victoria (2009) - well made if not very original royal period drama with a terrific lead performance from Emily Blunt. Whenever she's on screen, and thankfully it’s a lot, this rises from above average to quite good.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt096273...
7/10
Bellissima (1951) - excellent neo-realist satire from Luchino Visconti with Anna Magnani as a lower class pushy mother determined to get her child into the movies. Equally balancing humour and pathos, Visconti rightly lets Magnani's magnetic presence dominate each scene she is in.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004333...
7.5/10
The Insect Woman (1962) - Shohei Imamura's bizarre, matter of fact, sprawling, blackly comic take on the rise and fall of post war Japan viewed through the life and misadventures of a poor farmer's illegitimate daughter is a brilliant film, but one which does require a little bit of effort from the viewer to really work.
Spanning half a century of Japanese history with little to no indication/announcement of time shifts, it does require some close attention to work out when and what is happening, but rewards you with a fresh and vibrant display of intelligent storytelling.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005736...
7.5-8/10
The Natural (1984) - A baseball movie made out of the Arthurian legend. It has to be seen to be believed but this is a stunning, if overlong, film which is not really about baseball but the pursuit of the American dream and the pitfalls along the way. Gorgeously shot by Caleb Deschanel in an array of golden hues and with a commanding central performance by Robert Redford, this is one of the best sports based movies ever made.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008778...
7.5/10
Up (2009) - exhilarating stuff, loved pretty much every part of this, Pixar's best film since Toy Story 2 and easily the best film of last year. The opening 15 min are more touching than most full length films and the subsequent adventure story is tremendously entertaining and fun. Doug is a classic Pixar character.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt104941...
8.5/10
Adventureland (2009) - someone forgot to write a credible third act but until then this is an extremely solid and likeable coming of age flick with decent laughs, a very fitting soundtrack and good performances from the ever reliable Jesse Eisenberg and also Kristen Stewart.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt109172...
6.5/10
He Walked By Night (1948) - probably the prototype for all crime/police procedural films and tv shows ever made, Anthony Mann's documentary styled film noir is a little dated in some aspects but is still striking because of the great John Alton's camerawork and an objective and unbiased focus on the criminal character being pursued. Alton had a number of theories on lighting and I bet he employed all of them in this film, in which each scene looks different from but as astonishing as the one before.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004042...
6.5-7/10
#3171 posted by nitin [124.168.72.131] on 2010/01/28 10:58:32
Fawlty Towers Series 1 and 2 - didn’t find it brilliant but its definitely very funny. Some of the writing's a bit hit and miss but the performances and casting are very spot on.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt007250...
7-7.5/10
Monsoon Wedding (2001) - rewatch, wasn’t a huge fan on initial release of this bollywoodesque riff on Father of the Bride. This time around I thought it was pretty brilliant for about 60% of the film but the last part got far too melodramatic, albeit deliberately, to have any real impact. Naseerudin Shah is excellent in the central role and he gets good support from a number of supporting players too.
Interestingly, this was shot by Declan Quinn, who also shot the more drab looking but similarly home-video styled Rachel Getting Married.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt026534...
6.5-7/10
Drag Me to Hell (2009) - Sam Raimi's return to the Evil Dead brand of film is not really scary enough or funny enough to work as either a horror or comedy. Then again, neither were the original Evil Dead films so a lot of how much you will like this depends on how much you enjoy the Evil Dead brew of silly comedic horror. I would have preferred it to be more of one or the other rather than the passable mixture that it is.
Still, at least its somewhat original, which is more than you can say for most horror these days which usually involves a remake or a sequel.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt112718...
6/10
Badlands (1973) - Terence Malick's equally beautiful and disturbing take on a Bonnie and Clyde type story has many notable features including Malick's evocative use of landscape and imagery, Martin Sheen's amazing performance (which is surely one of the all time great performances) and Sissy Spacek's depiction of an unknowing sociopath. Spacek's character lends the film a voiceover which is equal parts poetic, when it narrates the character's feelings, and outright disturbing, when it makes offhanded remarks about the killing committed by the couple.
Falters a bit towards the end, which is not as strong as it should be, but an impressive and memorable film nonetheless.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006976...
7.5/10
Coraline (2009) - beautiful stop motion rendering of Neil Gaiman's novel, which itself is inspired by Alice in Wonderland, having all the hallmarks of a Tim Burton's styled film. The first half is better than the second, mixing nice scenes of magical enchantment, odd characters, and an undercurrent of darkness. The second half, which is focused on the darkness, lacks a bit of bite but is still imaginatively animated and rendered.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt032759...
7/10
Star Trek (2009) - never seen any Star Trek but was pretty impressed with this even though the overused lens flare effect almost drove me insane. Reasonably intelligent, quite fun and with likeable characters. Action scenes were also pretty impressive. Cant all blockbusters be the same?
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt079636...
7-7.5/10
GIJoe (2009) - so ludicrous it was almost enjoyable but the terrible special effects don’t allow for that. Seriously, where did the $160m budget actually go? Some of the effects were tv standard.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt104617...
4/10
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009) - dorky loner nerd teen invents a machine that can make it rain food from the sky. Narratively weak, but the original concept makes for a fun animated film with some brilliant and ingenious scenes of destruction by food.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt084447...
6.5/10
#3172 posted by nitin [124.168.41.18] on 2010/02/01 08:57:53
The Wire Season 5 - seriously stretches credibility for the first half of the season, particularly noticeable given how realistic and believable everything up until now has been, but none of that matters once it settles into finalisation mode. Quite possibly the most satisfying and memorable finish to any drama series, let along arguably the greatest drama series of all time. The final episode is pitch perfect.
8/10
Mad Men Season 2 - pretty much lives up to everything the tremendous first season set up with great character development, particularly the women. Some of the character writing is of serious quality and its all set up for potentially another great season to follow by the end. And style wise, this is second to none.
8.5/10
Moon (2009) - I feel a bit bad trouncing what is a legitimate attempt at a serious and thoughtful science fiction film but there are a couple of major faults that are showstoppers. First time director Duncan Jones has definitely done his research, creating a rich mood that is 2001 meets Solaris meets Alien. Unfortunately, that's the all the plusses (although I suppose Sam Rockwell in the lead is decent enough). The script has serious problems, particularly once a certain event has happened. After this event, I found the character interaction to be very suspect, contrived and requiring too big a suspension of disbelief to seem credible. A number of gaping plot holes also reared their heads. Some of this could have been ignored if the movie actually tackled the issues it raised rather than simply skimming the surface, but unfortunately the script didnt even allow for that.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt118234...
5.5/10
The Brothers Bloom (2009) - Like Moon I really wanted to like this too, Rian Johnson's meant to be fun attempt at the con movie. It is not a homage to any of the great con movies but rather more akin to Wes Anderson's style of whimsical filmmaking. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but Johnson is no Anderson and cannot deftly balance the drama and quirky humour in the same way. This movie works when its trying to be slyly humorous, not so much when it tries to be serious. Mildly amusing but fairly lacking.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt084428...
5-5.5/10
Couple Films
#3173 posted by Tronyn [24.78.143.88] on 2010/02/08 06:00:22
MOON - not sure exactly what holes you're referring to nitin (unless you mean whether it is AHEM SPOILER credible that the guy can figure it out and do anything about it at all), but other than that I agree with your take on it; semi-interesting idea, could have been better. Nice to see slower/weirder scifi though.
ANTICHRIST - what can I say this is one fucked up movie. I really liked it. One of the few genuinely creepy movies I've seen in the last couple years, awesome ending, ridiculous idea, effective dialogue, good subtle effects.
#3174 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/02/08 06:17:32
Subtle as in CUTTING OFF A CLITORIS??? Or so I hear.
Tronyn
#3175 posted by nitin [124.168.14.177] on 2010/02/08 11:08:52
there was the reason for why the corporation did what it did which seemed pretty expensive for a cost cutting measure, the programming on GERTY just seemed silly if the corporation was serious.
More than the plot holes, it was the less than credible character interaction that annoyed me.
Antichrist is on the to get list.
The Road.
#3176 posted by Shambler [86.25.220.242] on 2010/02/10 22:55:25
A perfect feel-good movie for a first date...
I think if I hadn't read the book I'd be pretty shell-shocked by this. Does it exactly what it says on the tin, an atmospheric and accurate translation of a bleak and gripping book, with only a few minor deviancies. Even having read the book, I still thought it was great, really well done. I found the book bleak, but the film more sad than bleak, there's a few scenes where if I hadn't been a big strong man I'd have shed a few tears.
Haha
#3177 posted by starbuck [212.159.117.218] on 2010/02/10 23:10:01
It does indeed sound like a textbook date movie. Then again, from my previous posts in here, you'll see I saw Audition on a first date.
Road
#3178 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/02/11 02:29:47
saw it yesterday. Pretty good, comments later
The Chode
#3179 posted by ijed [190.20.89.17] on 2010/02/11 02:32:04
A perfect feel-up move for a first date...
The Road
#3180 posted by Tronyn [24.78.143.88] on 2010/02/11 06:35:56
yeah it was great. Apparently John Hillcoat is having trouble with funding his next project, which freaking sucks. He's only done two films, The Proposition and The Road (some interesting parallels between the two) and already he's demonstrated a powerful visual style and a really dark set of themes. No one can do 'bleak' like him.
Tronyn
#3181 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/02/11 07:11:05
he also did Ghosts of the Civil Dead back in 1988 or so.
#3182 posted by nitin [124.168.34.205] on 2010/02/14 01:16:36
30 Rock Season 3 - funnier than Season 2 but the celebrity cameo per episode gets annoying. And I've worked out why I don’t personally think this is brilliant, only good (and it took watching something more traditional like Fawlty Towers to realise this). All the ingredients are there but there is just no buildup for any of the jokes, they are just delivered one after the other with no real effort for setup.
7/10
The Road (2009) - as good an adaptation of the source material as there could be really. It's a very difficult book to adapt and director John Hillcoat does quite well in choosing to focus on the relationship between the father and son (with flashbacks to the mother) rather than the hardship of their journey through a post apocalyptic world. It's uncompromisingly bleak but so was the book and the only thing that could really be improved upon is a better child actor. The one used was fine but struggled in some of the more difficult scenes. Viggo Mortensen is excellent as usual.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt089836...
7-7.5/10
Bright Star (2009) - Jane Campion's film about english poet John Keats is not a biography but more about his brief relationship with seamstress Fanny Brawne before his eventual death. It's a film of two halves in more ways than one.
Narratively, the first half is better than the second which drags on a good 20 min too long. Performance wise, Ben Whishaw lacks charm and charisma and does not come across in any way as a great poet or someone that would draw attention in the manner that his character is shown to do. On the other hand, Abbie Cornish is terrific as the witty, strong minded and naive Fanny Brawne (who was robbed of at least an oscar nomination). Even visually, the first half has some breathtaking cinematography before there is a deliberate shift to a more dank and gloomy atmosphere (and Greg Fraser's work was also robbed of an oscar nomination).
On the whole, its well worth watching, having a strong emotional core without being mawkishly sentimental.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt081078...
6.5/10
Waterloo Bridge (1940) - In direct comparison, this is an unashamedly sentimental melodrama with Vivien Leigh and Robert Taylor. And for the most part, it is quite well made by Mervyn LeRoy who gives the whole thing a natural flow despite the script being ludicrous at times. What will make it or break it though is how you react to Vivien Leigh. I have never been a fan of her mannered and camera mugging acting style and although it is more restrained than usual here, it rears its head in several key scenes.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt003323...
6/10
Z (1969) - Costa Gavras' brilliant political thriller based on the real life assassination of greek politician Grigoris Lambarkis and the subsequent investigation into his death is an old fashioned european film that eschews the general trappings of a thriller for a more matter of fact approach that focuses on capturing the prevailing public atmosphere preceding, surrounding and succeeding the assassination. Interwoven into that atmosphere are some inspired touches that also give time to the more personal and intimate side of things. And its all set to Mikis Theodorakis' marvellously rhythmic score.
Admittedly, some of the later investigation scenes arent quite as interesting as what comes before but on the whole this is high quality cinema.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006523...
7.5-8/10
Mother (2009) - Joon Ho Bong treads familiar ground with another rural south korean murder mystery drama that draws inevitable comparison with his earlier and masterful Memories of Murder. Unfortunately, this latest film, despite its strengths, is only an above average affair which takes too long to get to its interesting and fresh ending. But Bong is a master of mood and this is permeated with an eerie ambience that is enhanced by one of the best scores of last year. And Kim Hye-Ja's central performance as an elderly single mother whose mentally disabled son is charged with murder is some of the best acting you will come across, full of nuance and intense emotion and carrying the film through some of its duller periods..
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt121649...
6.5/10
Martyrs (2008) - brutal but partly engrossing french horror film that ultimately bites off way more than it can chew in its last act. Director Pascal Laugier seems to have higher aspirations in mind than just a well made B horror film but its questionable whether those aspirations match the execution. Nevertheless, when Laugier sticks to the standard genre conventions, he unarguably demonstrates plenty of skill in generating surprise and shock.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt102923...
5-5.5/10
Agreed!
#3183 posted by Drew [70.49.71.231] on 2010/02/14 06:02:38
thought the first half was a bit better, too.
up until the lock down it was awesome, but after that point it just gets silly.
I think I've said it before, but Inside is better in my opinion, as far as french horror goes.
A bit goofy, but just absolutely intensive gore. and as unrealistic as the premise seems, it's happened in real life!
Drew
#3184 posted by nitin [124.168.34.205] on 2010/02/14 08:07:16
yeah have Inside on the to watch list. Any others? Frontiers looks shit but I could be wrong.
#3185 posted by Drew [70.49.71.231] on 2010/02/14 08:41:05
Yeah, I don't know how that's gonna be, still have pretty high hopes!
Lake Eden's pretty decent, as far as over the top xenophobic survival horror goes...
And I've heard great things about that movie Time Crimes. Looks pleasantly goofy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4n...
Time Crimes
#3186 posted by nitin [124.168.34.205] on 2010/02/14 09:36:05
could be interesting.
Meanwhile :
Videodrome (1983) - pretty effective little flick from David Cronenberg with some very creepy sequences (and effects!) and some quite prescient insight. Not going to try and summarise the plot because describing early Cronenberg plots in a non-stupefying manner is almost impossible. But Cronenberg's prophetic, if not always logical, exploration of consumer control and reaction within the tv entertainment world is bizarrely compelling and ludicrously entertaining at the same time, with all the strangeness given an anchor by James Woods' fantastic and committed performance in the central role.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008654...
7-7.5/10
Just Got Back From The French Film
#3187 posted by nitin [124.168.7.215] on 2010/02/19 08:08:19
A Prophet, comments later but in short, modern crime classic.
Comments on some others :
Mary and Max (2009) - the new feature length claymation film from Harvie Krumpet director Adam Elliot is good but also repetitive in both content and structure. It does feel a little like a short film idea stretched out to feature length. Still, its very watchable with a strong ending and a nice streak of acerbic humour throughout.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt097876...
6/10
Tomorrow (1972) - Robert Duvall is a great actor and this is arguably his greatest performance, which is saying a lot considering his body of work. Duvall is in pretty much every scene of this film, playing a simple minded Mississippi dirt farmer who is hired as an overseer of a saw mill the winter season and finds an abandoned pregnant woman whom he eventually falls in love with. The film shows the turn of the century south in a very straightforward and unglamorous fashion and captures the mood and feel of a very lonely rural community in what appears to be a very authentic manner.
Its slow moving, but always interesting, especially if you like strong acting and moody cinematography. Olga Bellin, who plays the woman, is also brilliant.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006939...
7.5/10
The Ruling Class (1971) - brilliant idea for what should be wicked black comedy, but the execution is just plain poor. A member of the House of Lords dies in a silly way and leaves his estate to his insane son who thinks he is Jesus Christ. Other members of the family try to have him committed in order to steal the estate and their plan backfires when the son no longer believes himself to be Jesus, but rather Jack the Ripper.
Unfortunately, the film is a big sprawling mess with a couple of brilliant scenes but mostly being a poor mishmash of different tones and genres. Peter O Toole is allowed to chew whatever scenery he can find and although his performance is more than zany enough, he only really hits the mark in a few scenes (the most notable being his showdown, as Jesus Christ, with another insane inmate who believes himself to be The New Age Electric Christ).
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006919...
4-4.5/10
Side Street (1951) - solid if unspectacular film noir from Anthony Mann reuniting the successful pairing of Farley Granger and Cathy O'Donnell from Nicholas Ray's superior They live by Night.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004296...
6.5-7/10
The Ascent (1977) - Larisa Shepitko is relatively unknown but is widely regarded by her peers as one of the best female directors in cinema history. She died young, making only a handful of films and this was her final film before her death. It’s a near masterpiece, with a first half that is as good as any film ever made.
In 1942 Belarus, two partisan soldiers leave their band and trek through the snow to find a nearby farmhouse to get supplies. The first half tracks their progress through the wintery landscape, with mesmerising long tracking shots that have to be seen to be believed. Eventually they are captured by Nazi collaborating Belarusians and at this point the film settles into a more conventional biblical allegory that focuses on the different attitudes of the two men towards their fate. This half of the film is still strong, brimming with an unforced honesty, but it is also much less immediate than what has come before.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt007540...
7.5-8/10
The Red Desert (1964) - terrible film from Michaelangelo Antonioni. Its only saving grace is that its shot quite well but otherwise this is a tedious, dreary, dated and repetitive effort from Antonioni. His earlier alimentation trilogy covered much of the same ground but far more effectively in my opinion
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005800...
3/10
A Serious Man (2009) - A little too oblique and impenetrable for me to fully appreciate but its another distinctively bleak but hilarious outing that only the Coen brothers can make. I have no idea how they got approval to make something like this but I'm glad they did.
Sy Abelman is one of the all time classic characters.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt101945...
7-7.5/10
Having An Anticlimactic Ending...
#3188 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.16.44] on 2010/02/19 11:30:25
"very important"
What SleepwalkR Said Applies Below
#3189 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.72] on 2010/02/21 10:23:29
I watched Inglourious Basterds yesterday and agree with what people said before me. Nothing too special but alright. I found the Landa character getting out of character starting with the laughter about the skiing accident, earlier he was ace.
Someone like Guy Ritchie could have managed much better to make the various plots come together in one final big good ending...
I also found the music choice bad sometimes but I guess that is Tarantino having to do his thing.
Gotta watch the older one some day.
#3190 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.72] on 2010/02/21 21:06:15
And the 1978 Inglorious Bastards:
Average nazi killing. Some parts are better, some worse. Has almost nothing to do with Tarantino's movie. It's american's disguised as nazis and that's about it. Fun characters.
Teeth.
#3191 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.243] on 2010/02/24 16:04:15
http://www.teethmovie.com/trailer....
Anyone seen this?? Sounds pretty interesting, rated well on RT too.
Haha
#3192 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/02/24 16:11:52
yes. it's awful really, but strangely compelling at the same time.. and to be fair it doesn't take itself that seriously anyway. certainly enough to put you off sex for a while :P
Reminds Me Of An Old Joke I Once Heard In High School
#3193 posted by RickyT23 [217.42.132.38] on 2010/02/24 17:34:14
What do you call a fanny with teeth in?
A vicious cunt!
#3194 posted by Drew [65.94.245.147] on 2010/02/24 18:06:19
I want to see that - heard it's good and goofy in a 'slither' type of way.
Hmm
#3195 posted by nonentity [79.72.44.144] on 2010/02/25 07:07:39
That the vagina dentata one?
It's alright, mildly amusing, if slightly sub-average. Watch it if you have nowt else to do, but I wouldn't go out of your way to do so...
#3196 posted by Spirit [213.39.225.47] on 2010/02/27 22:41:05
RocknRolla, 2008 by Guy Ritchie
Nowhere near Lock, Stock ... or Snatch. Fun though. Very local english, I switched on subtitles after a while. Some hilarious, some cool scenes. But also a lot of stupid scenes. A bit much of annoying music. Some great actors. Ending unsatisfactory as it was not really about the actual main characters (12, Mumble and Bob for me). Will probably not watch again.
#3197 posted by nitin [124.148.185.142] on 2010/02/28 01:46:27
The Informant! (2009) - Steven Soderbergh's latest, a satire of something like Michael Mann's more serious (and much superior) The Insider, tries too hard to be quirky and clever which was completely unnecessary given the loopy nature of the overall plot and main character.
It works best when it casually weaves in random stream of consciousness thoughts in the main character's voiceover narration and less successfully so whenever the music score emphasises each change in tone to such an extent that Soderbergh may as well have had cue cards popping up on screen instructing the audience which parts are meant to be serious and which parts are meant to be funny. Soderbergh's approach is even more beguiling when you consider how impressive Matt Damon is and how on the ball he is as to how each scene should play out.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt113008...
6.5/10
Up in the Air (2009) - Another decent film from Jason Reitman but once again it feels a little too clever for its own good and doesn’t end convincingly. He has a gift for making what should be smarmy and unlikeable characters likeable, and for extracting strong performances from his cast, but there is a little too much tongue in cheek in his films for them to work beyond surface level (I think Juno, once it got past the first annoying 20 min, worked best on this level).
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt119313...
7/10
#3198 posted by Spirit [213.39.129.206] on 2010/03/01 16:34:33
The Italian Job (2003)
Very bad hollywood action movie. I think I should avoid movies with Mark Wahlberg (ok, Shooter was alright) and Seth Green (I so can't stand his characters...).
I got into The Big Bang Theory after getting bored of 2-3 seasons 3rd Rock from the Sun recently. Very funny show so far. I am sure nonentity will disagree.
Spirit
#3199 posted by RickyT23 [217.42.132.38] on 2010/03/01 16:50:43
This is funny :)
http://watchxonline.com/category/6...
Spirit
#3200 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.145] on 2010/03/01 17:58:26
The exceptions are of course Three Kings and The Departed.
Hmm
#3201 posted by nonentity [89.168.53.49] on 2010/03/01 19:17:27
Huh?
Also
#3202 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.10.33] on 2010/03/01 19:33:38
The Corruptor
Hang On
#3203 posted by nitin [124.148.185.142] on 2010/03/01 22:59:48
you preferred Shooter to IJ remake??
I thought the first was terrible and the second decent.
Also, Boogie Nights, easily the best thing hes been involved in!
Nitin And SleepwalkR
#3204 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.145] on 2010/03/01 23:43:59
Boogie Nights is definitely on the list, The Corruptor I have not seen, but will make an effort now.
[Rec] 2
#3205 posted by negke [88.70.81.38] on 2010/03/02 01:24:01
Bit shaky in parts (not the camera), but otherwise okay. Hardly any new elements except for the conclusion, basically the same movie from a different perspective.
Damn
#3206 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.10.33] on 2010/03/02 02:11:24
Boogie Nights > The Corruptor, of course
Vigil./sleepy
#3207 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/03/02 02:25:58
I would actually put the predictable but well made We Own the Night ahead of The Corruptor too. If only for the spectacular rainstorm car chase. But its also a decent movie :)
So
#3208 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.145] on 2010/03/04 00:58:30
Los abrazos rotos by Pedro Almodóvar is a movie I watched today and liked very much.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt091342...
A blind screenwriter finds out that his archenemy is dead, so he tells the story from his past to his protege, and strives for some closure.
#3209 posted by nitin [124.168.34.14] on 2010/03/05 11:53:57
Shutter Island (2009) - not sure how much of the flawed narrative is the book's fault but even if it is, I think some changes were warranted in the adaptation to film. Plays its cards way way too early and then the eventual resolution is so logically flawed, it takes away quite a bit from the reasonably well crafted film that otherwise takes place.
Scorsese the film buff is on full display, skilfully homaging many of the great noirs, particularly the works of Jacques Tourneur, and some of the sequences are from his heyday as a director, but the whole is definitely less than the sum of its parts.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt113088...
5.5-6/10
Dexter Season 3 - the show's writers have a history of creating intriguing and morally ambiguous setups and then letting themselves down with an easy and morally simple resolution. And they are at it again this season, but this time with probably the worst example of the above. The setup for this season is brilliant, with Jimmy Smits excelling in his role as Dexter's new friend and secret sharer, but the denouement just gets silly and features leaps of logic that just should have been better through.
6.5/10
Young Torless (1966) - Volker Schlondorff's disturbing debut is a pre WWI drama set in an Austrian boarding school at which a young boy becomes a target for humiliation and torture by a group of other boys, each of whom have different reasons for participating. It works as both a claustrophobic drama that unfolds with uncompromising starkness and also as a thinly veiled parallel of the rise of nazism in civilised society.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006057...
7.5/10
A Prophet (2009) - Jacques Audiard has made a string of fine films but his latest is a modern crime classic. The rise of a young arab man in a french prison to mafia kingpin is not the most original of plots but Audiard's direction and Tahar Rahim's central performance elevate this to a much higher plane. Frequently brutal, always menacing, immaculately constructed and absolutely compelling from start to finish.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt123516...
8/10
Genova (2008) - the new film from Michael Winterbottom takes more than a few cues from Nicolas Roeg's classic Don’t Look Now, having a grieving family looking to an italian city for solace and sharing supernatural overtones. Its nowhere near the quality of Roeg's film, suffering from a rambling script and being repetitive in both form and content, but it makes a fascinating use of its backdrop and is blessed with some fine performances, particularly from its young cast.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt079130...
6.5/10
Germany Year Zero (1948) - I cant believe this was allowed to be shot in Germany 3 years after the war. Roberto Rossellini's neo realist depiction of post war life in Germany is hardly a flattering view, featuring a demolished landscape and also a demolished society. The film centers on a handful of characters, all of whom move around Edmund, a 12 year old german boy who takes on responsibilities that you would not wish upon anyone anywhere.
The location shooting and use of non-professional actors lends it a remarkable authenticity and although I found it to be a little predictable narratively, its never less than engrossing.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt003941...
7-7.5/10
Che Part 1 (2008) - this is as unconventional a biopic as there has ever been. Steven Soderbergh is not exploring Che the man, but Che the icon and his approach seems to be to analyse his subject by comparing his leadership during two of his campaigns, the successful revolution of Chile, which is this film, and his unsuccessful attempted revolution of Bolivia, which is Part 2. Its not quite as narratively simple as that description because, in Part 1, he also goes back and forth between Che's 1964 United Nations General Assembly address.
Its not an easy film to watch, the first 20-30 min are particularly confusing but once you cotton on to what its trying to do, made easier by Benicio Del Toro's fantastic acting, its utterly compelling. Very keen to see Part 2.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt089225...
7.5/10
Dexter Season 3
#3210 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2010/03/05 16:14:38
Yeah I agree, it started so strong but it seems that the show follows a formula that you can pretty much expect that Dexter's new buddy is going to get killed in the end, which was okay for the first 2 seasons (actually liked season 2 the best) and the last 2 episodes of season 3 especially I felt were backwards. It's like they ended the season an episode early, realized their mistake, and then put in the last episode just before airtime.
Hope season 4 is better when it comes out on DVD.
Zwif
#3211 posted by nitin [124.168.34.14] on 2010/03/06 00:52:39
yeap agree on season 2 being the best but even the end to that was too neatly and easily resolved.
Have heard John Lithgow is great in season 4.
#3212 posted by Spirit [213.39.203.231] on 2010/03/12 23:19:01
Ghost Dog: Pretentious.
Downloading Le Samourai, I trust nitin's recommendation. :)
Watched all of The Big Bang Theory now. It went quite downhill after half the third season. You gotta watch it from the start, I remembered watching a random episodes months ago and not liking it at all. Watching from the beginning I highly enjoyed most of them. Had some great laughs.
To Be Fair
#3213 posted by nitin [124.168.59.21] on 2010/03/14 00:04:38
Le Samourai can also come off as pretentious, but its also feels a hell of a lot more classy, cooler and natural than Ghost Dog
$$$
#3214 posted by negke [88.70.85.4] on 2010/03/20 19:25:56
Predators: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9u8...
Once Upon A Time In The West
#3215 posted by Spirit [213.39.187.96] on 2010/03/21 00:07:35
amazing, such strong impressions. Of course the fact that the music is so well known and recycled played a big part in making it even more immersing (I think that one likes music better the more familiar it is, guess why there are always the same songs on the radio). Dragged a bit near the end. Some bits were hard to understand (language issue mostly). Easily one of the best movies I ever saw.
Yeah
#3216 posted by nitin [124.168.98.43] on 2010/03/21 00:23:51
class film, does drag a bit but I love the opening sequence and the music is indeed ace.
$$$
#3217 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.185] on 2010/03/22 19:44:29
indeed. Meh.
Teal And Orange Color Grading
#3218 posted by ericw [198.53.216.92] on 2010/04/03 05:18:37
http://theabyssgazes.blogspot.com/...
Orange Color Grading
#3219 posted by nitin [124.148.166.6] on 2010/04/03 05:44:55
makes the picture look more glossy and clean.
Its not particularly attractive IMHO, but most modern films use it to appear big budget or show off their budget. Plus it then looks very clean and smooth on blu ray for all the "grain is bad, I need everything pin sharp" videophiles.
Teal And Orange
#3220 posted by bear [83.233.163.27] on 2010/04/03 13:24:44
to match the movie posters!
Saw Some Things Recently
#3221 posted by DaZ [92.29.71.232] on 2010/04/03 15:39:25
Avatar - Thought it was great, definitely one of the sexiest films I've ever seen. The 3D was great, hopefully most films from now on will use it!
law abiding citizen - Starts off very well but flounders at the end. You start off sympathizing with the main character, but by the end you despise him =)
AvP Requiem - I was surprised by this as I was expecting absolute rubbish, instead it was merely mediocre. Starts off a bit slow and dull, but speeds up a lot in the 2nd half. I think they may have gone overboard with the whole pred-alien thing, and some things just don't feel right to me. Some of the creature effects are quite dodgy in places also, but overall its fairly passable.
Rewatched.
#3222 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.251] on 2010/04/03 16:30:01
Spirited Away last night. Still brilliant. The creatures are hilarious especially the small ones. The train scene is still beautiful.
Law Abiding Citizen
#3223 posted by RickyT23 [86.23.98.107] on 2010/04/03 19:00:18
I agree with Daz.
Traingle
Saw this film Triangle. Awesome film, very clever plot and screenplay. Good ending.
Dont want to spoil it but it's very very good.
IMO.
Hmm
#3224 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/04/03 20:39:37
Traingle; http://neatorama.cachefly.net/imag...
#3225 posted by RickyT23 [86.23.98.107] on 2010/04/03 23:32:17
that train looks straight out of Quake 2 / Stroggos
Slav'sya, Otechestvo Nashe Svobodnoye!
#3226 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.220] on 2010/04/04 00:07:43
that is the train vondur takes to work each morning.
Law Abiding Citizen
#3227 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/04/04 03:53:05
You start off sympathizing with the main character, but by the end you despise him =)
i think this is pretty much the point. it's how i interpreted the main theme anyhow; really liked how the moral shift between the two sides was spread across the whole film - the hero becoming the villain and vice versa. great movie
i saw freddie got fingered earlier. i'm sad that i will never get those ~2 hours back :(
It's Not So Bad.
#3228 posted by ijed [190.20.122.155] on 2010/04/04 06:30:06
I remember having a lot of fun watching it. Might have been the influence of the shrooms and coke though.
Daz
#3229 posted by nitin [124.148.166.6] on 2010/04/04 08:14:22
3D is taking over the world, even shot for 2d stuff will now use it. Keep those glasses.
#3230 posted by Spirit [213.39.174.227] on 2010/04/04 19:47:50
Star Wars Episode 2: Attack of the Clones Review by that slow talking guy. It is actually pretty good (except for the very ameteurish humour in the "outside" sequences of course, that is just silly).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfB...
Triangular Trains Omg
#3231 posted by bear [94.255.223.54] on 2010/04/05 13:02:51
best invention since triangular lights
Teal And Orange...
#3232 posted by metlslime [173.11.92.50] on 2010/04/05 22:01:42
doom3 did this a lot too, i remember.
Kick Ass
#3233 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.48] on 2010/04/23 01:10:25
Can't see anyone mentioning this??
Pretty well titled IMO. 2/3 Tarantino, 1/3 high school teenage angst film with more swearing and better dialogue. Didn't really know what to expect nor how it could actually be a half decent film, but it was great fun, just well done and very entertaining. Perfect example of a Daily Mail "No stars moral outrage decline of society" film that does just that, in a good way. The little girl is class, as is the boss.
#3234 posted by mwh [125.236.193.95] on 2010/04/23 04:48:41
Yeah, I loved it. Seen it twice now :-) I just grinned almost from start to finish.
I've been lent the comic book version, it's much grittier and unusually I don't really like that. The frothiness of the film is one of it's good sides (but I'm not really a comic reader).
Trailers Looked Pretty Meh To Me
#3235 posted by nitin [210.84.15.107] on 2010/04/23 14:24:14
so I was going to wait for dvd/blu.
Will see if I can catch it over the next week though given the comments.
Nitin.
#3236 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.48] on 2010/04/23 19:26:58
I admit, I really wasn't sure how it would be any good. Not sure if I saw a full trailer but saw some adverts and was like "pretty meh" but then people started making all these comments and I thought it was worth a go (there might of been this cute curvy geek chick I wanted to take on a date too *whistles*), and well, I'd have to agree with the comments, it's just funny, sassy, and entertaining. You might differ of course.
Kick Ass
#3237 posted by megaman [88.134.172.72] on 2010/04/23 20:14:13
has some decent action scenes, but most of the other stuff is meh. The humour (other than in the action scenes) didn't work at all for me.
Megaman
#3238 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.25.163] on 2010/04/24 08:03:18
Is there anything, anything at all in the world, that you really, genuinely like? Other than yourself, of course ;-)
Lunaranity Is Contagious
#3239 posted by negke [88.70.243.111] on 2010/04/24 10:02:32
SleepwalkR
#3240 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.48] on 2010/04/24 10:49:07
Hairy men in tight leather shorts, IIRC.
Sleepwalker
#3241 posted by megaman [88.134.172.72] on 2010/04/24 12:54:46
there's not much around that doesn't have a single flaw. And it's helpful to sum up what doesn't work. This doesn't mean you don't like it (most people actually think it does, and feel offended and/or irritated).
That said, most stuff that tries to appeal "to the masses" simply doesn't work for me. An exception might be your mum.
If You Can Put Up With B/w
#3242 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/24 12:59:11
and foreign stuff and can actually find this, Larisa Sheptiko's Wings is a phenomenal post-war soviet drama set in Russia with the main character an ex-army pilot who misses the war and the purpose it gave her life.
Easily slots in to my top 20-25 movies I have seen.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006119...
Oh
#3243 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/24 12:59:24
and 9.5/10
Megaman
#3244 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.97.243] on 2010/04/24 16:00:01
Yeah - all the people are wrong if they take your pointing out only the flaws of stuff as being overly critical / negative. I wonder how anyone would get that idea!
Seriously, I don't really care either way, I just noticed that you're always negative about pretty much everything. I just hope your super high standards don't make you a lonely guy ;-)
#3241
#3245 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.220.248] on 2010/04/24 16:35:50
Excellent. Nice. 10/10
#3246 posted by Spirit [213.39.174.64] on 2010/04/24 23:34:48
Soleil Rouge/Red Sun
Some just about average western with Charles Bronson (somehow I do not like him, he's got a weird face and appearance, almost like the clown Klaus Kinski. I just cannot take his characters serious. Once upon a time in the west would have been even better with a better actor for his role in my opinion.
Spirit
#3247 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.97.243] on 2010/04/24 23:44:40
Watch your parentheses! You're making all programmers uncomfortable!
Haha
#3248 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/04/25 00:00:34
expected ), found .
{
#3249 posted by Spirit [213.39.174.64] on 2010/04/25 00:13:12
Heh, I noticed it right when the click was done. Thought about putting it in a follow up post but decided against it. }
Dude
#3250 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.97.243] on 2010/04/25 00:19:01
I feel disoriented.
Spirit
#3251 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/25 03:35:13
Red Sun has more wrong with it than just Charles Bronson. The tone is all over the place. Ursula Andress looks hot though.
#3252 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.43] on 2010/04/25 09:46:28
Yes and yes. I think The Unforgiven is next.
Sleepwalker
#3253 posted by megaman [188.109.32.127] on 2010/04/25 10:54:23
yeah, right.
Spirit
#3254 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/25 16:41:43
as in The Unforgiven with burt lancaster and audrey hepburn or Unforgiven with Clint Eastwood.
Latter is excellent, former I havent seen so would like comments if you're seeing that one.
I Like All Eastwood's
#3255 posted by ijed [190.20.119.219] on 2010/04/25 17:12:24
Films I've seen, either acting or directing.
Gran Torino?
#3256 posted by Drew [65.94.246.63] on 2010/04/25 17:30:26
boo
Not Great But Not Bad
#3257 posted by ijed [190.20.119.219] on 2010/04/25 17:34:58
I Liked
#3258 posted by megaman [88.134.172.72] on 2010/04/25 19:56:14
gran torino a lot.
#3259 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.43] on 2010/04/25 20:03:27
The 1992 one with Clint Eastwood. Starting now.
Ijed
#3260 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.25.238] on 2010/04/25 21:53:43
Did you see "Midnight in the Garden of Good And Evil"?
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt011966...
That was one of the few Eastwood films I really disliked. That and "Flag of Our Fathers".
#3261 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.43] on 2010/04/25 22:36:16
Ok, watched it. 7/10 or something for me. Too 80s/90s/US-american/Hollywood. Very trying to build up, I almost called it a day after 45 minutes. A lot of silly profanity, *yawn* soundtrack, manly ending. The pimp kinda looked like metl.
I Didn't, Yet
#3262 posted by ijed [190.20.119.219] on 2010/04/26 00:57:33
I used to watch a lot of films and listen to a lot of music. On music I was the guy to ask for a while.
No time any more.
One of my 'new years' resolutions is to one day go through this thread and watch everything Nitin has rated over 6.
----
If that's Eastwood's iconic shit film then he's not failed yet.
Sleepy
#3263 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/26 01:55:17
interesting because I thought Flags was good but Iwo Jima really bugged me.
Gran Torino was overrated but good.
hmm, Unforgiven, I'd give it 7.5 myself but quite liked it, especially the editing from memory.
ijed, that'll take forever :) I'd bump it up to 7.5, that would cut out quite a few!
Nitin
#3264 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.12.101] on 2010/04/26 07:12:47
Yeah, I thought it was the other way around. What bugged you about iwo jima? I thought it was much more realistic and interesting to see battle from the perspective of the japanese. Also, the soundtrack was much better.
I was going to write that what bugged me about Flags was the unfettered patriotism, but then I thought maybe it wasn't patriotic at all, but trying to unmask the story behind the flag picture. I don't quite remember which way it was.
Iwo Jima
#3265 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/26 08:58:16
just felt too much like an american version of the japanese perspective, rather than a real japanese perspective. Also, apart from the fact that it was from the japanese viewpoint, I thought it was like any other WWII war film hollywood has made since Saving Private Ryan.
Flags definitely wasnt unfettered patriotism, there was definitely more of an attempt to unamask the 'heroes' made out of the flag hoisters.
Ok
#3266 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.12.101] on 2010/04/26 09:07:01
Both go to my rewatch list. Btw, anyone watching "The Pacific" on HBO? It's a 10 part miniseries about the war against the japanese. I think it's ok-ish, but nothing compares to Thin Red Line when it comes to this particular topic IMO.
Havent Seen It Yet
#3267 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/26 12:32:26
although I had high hopes after Band of Brothers.
And to commit some heresy, Thin Red Line was terrible IMHO. The only Malick film I havent liked at all apart from the visuals (granted he's only made 4), all the others rate quite highly in my book.
Interesting
#3268 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.12.101] on 2010/04/26 13:19:16
I didn't like The New World at all, but that was in great part due to the abysmal performance of Colin Farrell.
I thought the Thin Red Line was fantastic, esp. in how it managed to portrait the angst and fear of the soldiers. I also liked the characters, but I have to admit that it didn't really tell a compelling story. At times it felt like we were shown random images / scenes from the pacific war, but I didn't mind that so much since the atmosphere / visuals / sound / soundtrack / acting was great IMO.
The Pacific
#3269 posted by DaZ [92.29.120.79] on 2010/04/26 16:26:28
Ive been watching it, and I have to say its not as good as band of brothers.
It is by no means bad, but I think it tripped up quite badly at the very beginning and took about 4 or 5 episodes to recover. Basicly it spends next to no time introducing any characters before the fighting starts, and only really starts digging into characters at about episode 4 or 5 (I forget which).
Compared with BoB, this really annoyed me as I was invested into a lot of the characters before they even fired a shot, whereas here they get into there first fire-fight and I really didnt give a shit who got killed/wounded. It was just a fight...
production values are very very high however (just like BoB), and once the characters do get fleshed out more it becomes a much better experience.
Yup
#3270 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.12.101] on 2010/04/26 17:53:32
What DaZ said sums up my problem with TP.
Sleepy
#3271 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/27 01:51:32
which version of New World have you seen? There's a 40 or so min longer version available on dvd/blu.
Now I'm not sure if it will be a converting 40 min, it came across as more scenes for those that liked the original cut of the film, but worth checking out.
Thin Red Line, no dispute over visuals/sound and their combination, I just didnt like the rest of it.
Daz, I did read there was a lot more action than drama in The Pacific over BoB, which I find surprising because I thought BoB had plenty of action for action junkies anyway.
New World
#3272 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.28.210] on 2010/04/27 07:10:08
I saw it at the Berlin Film Festival, I guess it must have been the shorter version. I doubt that the longer version would win me over, since it will contain even more of Colin Farrels face, but then again, it may be worth a try.
The Longer Cut
#3273 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/27 08:59:32
is close to 3 hrs, but yeah I dont think its a converting cut like say Kingdom of Heaven (which turns a terrible film into a brilliant one). But you do also get more visuals and atmosphere so worth checking out.
Ok
#3274 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.28.210] on 2010/04/27 09:11:18
Will do it's been a while, and maybe I'll see it with different eyes now.
A Prophet
#3275 posted by Drew [174.89.233.7] on 2010/04/28 05:46:28
AWESOME crime movie.
has some parallels to scarface in the 'rising criminal' line, but done in a stark realist way - the 'initiation' and the scenes leading up to it are some of the most intense I've seen in ages.
Has more than a touch of goodfella's in it too.
oh and the violence is pretty great - you feel it, and it isn't pleasant.
Drew
#3276 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/04/28 07:16:46
yeah modern crime classic IMHO (as Is aid above somewhere I think).
Yeah
#3277 posted by Drew [174.89.233.7] on 2010/04/28 07:24:58
Hey, any reccomendations of similar stuff for me?
Will Need To Think About It
#3278 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/04/28 07:26:57
at work right now, will post when I get home.
Haha Thanks
#3279 posted by Drew [174.89.233.7] on 2010/04/28 07:59:55
Besides GOAT and Rififi
BTW
Scorsese’s last four films have all been overlong Oscar bait. I blame Kevin Costner for making Dances With Wolves, which beat Goodfellas. Losing the prize to a human cocker spaniel changed Scorsese’s style thereafter for the worse. If they’d rewarded him for Goodfellas he’d still be making gritty, uncompromising films full of funny-looking New York actors. Try watching Goodfellas followed by The Aviator sometime, it’s ecstasy to despair in under 5 hours.
#3280 posted by Drew [174.89.233.7] on 2010/04/28 08:09:27
*The Departed is still good though
I Really Like The Aviator Though
#3281 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/28 12:58:57
its definitely not Goodfellas league but its the best he's done since Casino IMHO (although I do also like Departed and Bringing out the Dead too).
Back to crime drama recommendations in a bit. Although dont know what you mean by GOAT off the top of my head.
Recentish Crime Drama Recommendations
#3282 posted by nitin [124.148.160.61] on 2010/04/28 14:25:29
some you would have probably seen. Some better than others but all at least good.
13 Tzameti(2005)
El Aura (2005)
A Bittersweet Life (2005)
Exiled (2006)
Inside Man (2006)
American Gangster (2007)
Eastern Promises (2007)
Gone Baby Gone (2007)
The Lookout (2007)
Mad Detective (2007)
The Chaser (2008)
Gomorrah (2008)
In Bruges (2008)
Sin City (2005)
Sympathy for Lady Vengeance (2005)
This is England (2006)
Zodiac (2007)
No Country for Old Men (2007)
And although I havent seen it yet, I have heard very good things about the french 2 parter Mesrine (2009), parts 1 and 2.
Uh... Gomorrah.
#3283 posted by the silent [80.17.142.66] on 2010/04/29 09:02:14
Being italian, I'm really curious about what you foreign guys think of this. I personally thought it was brilliant, if a little detached from what you'd expect from a movie...
Anyone care to elaborate? Nitin?
The Silent
#3284 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/04/29 09:33:51
I didnt think it was brilliant overall, I just didnt think the 5 stories meshed well together, but it was definitely at least very good and contained a number of excellent scenes some of which were quite distrubing I thought (little boy's initiation and the 2 youths with weapons come to mind).
Adn definitely anti-Goodfellas/Scarface in style, theres no glamorising going on here.
Yes, I Agree...
#3285 posted by the silent [80.17.142.66] on 2010/04/30 09:02:13
... Maybe my judgement is a little bit biased by the disturbingly real description of facts, which are as close to a news documentary as can possibly be.
I completely agree about the disjunction of the stories, but I took it as intentional, as a real life mirror, where stories are not necessarily connected, yet, when put together, tell a lot about the social environment where they grow and breed.
And, for sure, the effect of the movie is severely diminished by translation, given the very strict dialect spoken throughout. In fact, this is another point that gets me curious: has it been dubbed at all, or only subtitled? (I found the trailer, I see it's subtitled, which is a good thing).
Speaking of Italy, crime(on a much higher level) and Toni Servillo, you may want to check out "Il divo", another very good "true" story about one of the most controversial political figures in Italy. Servillo is just amazing.
I Agree
#3286 posted by nitin [124.148.160.193] on 2010/04/30 17:23:24
the disjunction was deliberate but I just didnt think it worked that well. I can see why it was done but I just didnt find it effective personally.
Its not dubbed, whatever unusual dialect of italian they are speaking (its not like any italian I have ever come across) remains intact.
Il Divo is already on the "eventually to watch" list :)
#3287 posted by Spirit [213.39.223.210] on 2010/05/07 22:05:10
Defendor (2009)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt130382...
A mixture of happy and sad like all those "dumb person movies". Very likable characters. Slow and careful. I laughed and then I was super sad. Overall a feel good movie that makes you think. Bit thick at times. Soundtrack good with some bad parts.
Recommended.
I wonder why Michael Kelly felt so familiar, none of his movies ring a bell to me. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0446672...
Well
#3288 posted by Vigil [84.249.59.19] on 2010/05/16 17:07:50
He was in Generation Kill.
#3289 posted by Spirit [80.171.96.214] on 2010/05/17 20:00:40
Anyone seen Pursued (1947)?
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt003973...
Recommendation or should I pass? Please say if it ends depressing or something.
Spirit
#3290 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/05/18 03:05:04
no.
Any particular reason for your interest though?
If it's because of Raoul Walsh, I'd suggest strating with White Heat or The Roaring Twenties.
If it's because of Robert Mitchum, I'd recommend Out of the Past, The Big Steal, Night of the Hunter, Crossfire or Cape Fear.
If it's anohter reason, ignore the above :)
#3291 posted by Spirit [80.171.96.16] on 2010/05/18 08:32:10
Oh, it just "became available" if you know what I mean. Don't know any of those names or movies.
Has Anybody Seen This?
#3292 posted by megaman [88.134.172.72] on 2010/05/18 12:48:41
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt029564...
Opinions? I really like some his other movies.
Iron Man 2
#3293 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/05/18 14:36:22
very good first half, below average second half, above average on the whole.
Nitin.
#3294 posted by Shambler [86.25.220.185] on 2010/05/19 16:13:12
Seen Tropic Thunder from a few years back? ;)
Shambler
#3295 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/05/19 16:52:46
no, but its in my monstrous unwatched pile though...
#3296 posted by Spirit [80.171.1.57] on 2010/05/19 17:27:59
Oh, leave it there, it is awfully bad.
Kick Ass
#3297 posted by starbuck [212.159.117.218] on 2010/05/19 17:42:30
Kicked many of the butts. Mwh commmented he was grinning the whole way through - I was exactly the same.
It's nowhere near as controversial as some have made out. If you wrote down some of the things that happen in the film it would sound pretty extreme, but the overall tone is very comic book.
The real great thing about the film is that it's the first 'superhero' film i've seen that doesn't have that smoothed-over, focus-group friendly hollywood gloss. You can be pretty sure of that if a 9 year old girl is kneecapping people and calling them cunts.
Other things that were good - Nicolas Cage's voice he puts on when he's in costume, which is classic Adam West Batman. The main dude does a good job, likeable guy, I hadn't seen him before. His love interest is smoking hot. MArk Strong is a great baddie as always.
Can't think of anything too negative to say, it's really a good ride and a lot of fun. Minor things... McLovin isn't great in it. The main romantic plot is a bit shaky, although it's possibly referencing lots of comics I haven't read.
Anyway, awesome. Might pick up the comic.
Courtesy Of Air New Zealand, Some Films I've Seen Recently...
#3298 posted by mwh [118.92.171.126] on 2010/05/20 01:06:31
Book of Eli
Bit odd, this one. Some of it is vaguely interesting post-apocalyptic stuff, the fights are _extremely_ comic book and, well, as an atheist I found it a bit hard to care about carting a bible around.
Moon
Quite good, thoughtful film. Probably a plane isn't the best place to see it.
State of Play
A good thriller, although it looks like it's going along very predictable lines for about three quarters of its length.
Sherlock Holmes
(A repeat viewing) I enjoyed this. It's probably not best to stop and think about it too much, but after 20 hours on planes, I wasn't very inclined to do that...
I Was Disappointed With Moon
#3299 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/05/20 04:22:05
although will wathc again some other time.
Liked State of Play, although it probably had one twist too many.
Sherlock Holmes is also in the pile, although I'm really not expecting much.
#3300 posted by Spirit [80.171.82.232] on 2010/05/25 22:29:40
High Plains Drifter (1973)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006869...
Not very good. Awful music/noise. Definitely not watching again.
I Quite Liked That One
#3301 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/05/26 03:55:20
although dont remember the music/soundtrack.
Not great but I thought it was definitely very good and well worth watching.
#3302 posted by Spirit [80.171.127.184] on 2010/05/29 22:01:14
Kiss Kiss Bang Band
What nitin said: http://www.celephais.net/board/vie...
Really bad.
Watched Kick Ass
#3303 posted by RickyT23 [86.23.78.214] on 2010/05/30 01:59:36
Loved it. Awesome action scenes, particularily the scene where Nicky Cage shoots up a load of gangsters in a warehouse.
Also had some good twists in it, and some very funny parts.
Also was very inpressed with The Uninvited (american version ?), the twist at the very end blew my mind.
Is That The
#3304 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/05/30 02:05:52
Tale of Two Sisters remake?
And spirit, I think I saw that again some two years afterwards and actually thought it was ok, probably because I knew what was coming and didnt have any expectations.
Zombieland.
#3305 posted by Shambler [86.25.220.179] on 2010/06/01 18:07:34
L4D2 film yaaaargh. Good fun, plenty of humour and good zombie action, but the bit in the middle especially Bill thingies house dragged on and felt like filler, could have gone for more action and more dark humour there.
Hmm, I Found It Really Bland
#3306 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/02 01:07:58
generic action, not very funny and definitely not scary. Much preferred Shaun of the Dead.
Yes.
#3307 posted by Shambler [86.25.220.179] on 2010/06/02 11:23:36
That might be so, but it still had zombies.
28 Weeks Later For Zombie Mayhem
#3308 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/02 11:42:43
IMHO.
Hmm
#3309 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/06/02 18:05:25
Oh god no. 28 Weeks was horrible, completely cheese ridden, holywood-ised traversty after the wonderful isolation of 28 Days. Altho the free/clean area/city was a cool idea.
And for awesome zombie-ness, watch Dead Set (5 part series, ~40 minutes per episode, basically an extended movie). In terms of cinematography/zombies then it's very modern zombie film styled (a la 28 Days), but in terms of the plot/social commentary all the cues come straight from Romero (George, not John).
And it has Davina McCaul being zombiefied! (UK TV reference)
Yes
#3310 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.18.6] on 2010/06/02 18:53:01
Dead Set was cool, good ending.
What
#3311 posted by DaZ [78.147.159.154] on 2010/06/03 00:32:38
And it has Davina McCaul being zombiefied!
Downloading now...
Yeah
#3312 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/03 00:55:17
see I hated 28 days, I thought that that was cheesy in its execution (even though some of the ideas were good), especially the last 1/3.
I much preferred 28 weeks.
#3313 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2010/06/03 16:05:26
Hating 28 Days/Weeks but loving Shaun of the Dead is grounds for having your opinion of movies ignored forever. Just FYI!
Maybe
#3314 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/06/04 02:38:06
but I liked 28 weeks and shaun, but only hated 28 days :)
I Liked Both Of The 28s
#3315 posted by megaman [178.1.138.185] on 2010/06/04 10:43:29
but i need to rewatch the first one.
The pacing of the second one is very different though, and I thought that it was a bit odd--maybe that's why it didn't strike me as particularly hollywood like, although the script certainly isn't very creative or inspiring. I still liked it for all the reasons that I liked the first one, nice urban zombie atmosphere, british vibe, etc.
Shaun+, Days+, Weeks-
#3316 posted by mwh [121.90.247.80] on 2010/06/04 11:28:08
though why is shaun of the dead in this list again? It doesn't have much in common :)
The end of 28 days later was a bit crap, i've always assumed it was a studio-imposed redo, although i've no idea if it actually was.
28 weeks later seemed sort of pointless to me in a way, lacking a central theme.
Shaun of the dead is just a romp :)
Mwh
#3317 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/04 12:41:05
because the discussion started with Zombieland.
#3318 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2010/06/04 15:30:24
"28 weeks later seemed sort of pointless to me in a way, lacking a central theme."
I disagree. The overall idea, re-habitation of the contaminated zone, was very cool. They just sort of dropped the ball on executing it. Still a cool movie, though.
"Shaun of the dead is just a romp :)"
For me, that movie is a series of obvious jokes and stupid gags. I just don't like that in a zombie movie. Zombieland was way better for humor, IMO, and had more interesting characters.
UK Vs US Humouour, Fight!
#3319 posted by Spirit [80.171.96.1] on 2010/06/04 17:03:14
I love Shaun and am looking forward to watch Zombieland. 28 days later was scary, completely different and went downhill once they arrived at that house.
#3320 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2010/06/04 17:19:01
Yeah, Shaun must require being a UK citizen or something. Most of the humor didn't click at all for me.
#3321 posted by Willem [24.199.192.130] on 2010/06/04 17:19:20
Case in point, Benny Hill. I rest my case.
Hmm
#3322 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/06/04 19:12:04
Benny Hill? What is it with American's assuming that is typical of UK humour? Seriously? It's cheese light entertainment from 40 years ago. Try The Goon Show, try Monty Python, otherwise I'm gonna assume the standard american 'humor' is fart jokes, nut shots and pro wrestling.
But Isnt Pro Wrestling
#3323 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/05 10:34:58
serious? There is no humour there :)
Btw, I must qualify my Shaun of the Dead statement, I was only trying to say that I much preferred that for zombie humour over Zombieland. On the whole, I still only find Shaun of the Dead to be above average, it does like Willem says have plenty of stupid gags that think they're way cleverer than they are. Hot Fuzz was a much smoother and funnier film from the duo.
Seconding Nonentity
#3324 posted by starbuck [92.236.80.129] on 2010/06/05 10:37:01
In the UK, Benny Hill doesn't get mentioned or shown at all. I've heard it referenced and seen it parodied far more by American comedians, etc.
It's probably some weird case where it was the only british comedy US networks could get at some point, or the humour actually worked much better over there. Either way if you find that shit funny, shame on you.
#3325 posted by metlslime [67.188.81.46] on 2010/06/05 10:48:15
anything's funny if you play Yakety Sax over it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gj4...
Hmm
#3326 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/06/05 17:07:59
This is true. The most recent PES has a career mode where you play as one player and therefore have to watch games from the bench for much of the match early in your career (albeit at 2x speed). My former housemates and I found the tedius experience vastly improved by playing the Benny Hill theme over the top of it...
#3327 posted by Spirit [80.171.143.35] on 2010/06/06 22:26:47
Fistful of Dynamite
Super disappointed. I expected another western but got a weird mexican (?) war movie with very boring slow pacing, unconvincing character development, awful music (not as bad as in My Name is Nobody though), EXPLOSIONS! and a mexican who talks about his huge cojones.
And now let's have another slow motion scene with that stupid juan-john-chanson. Let's make it 5 minutes of fluff that does not succeed in making the bland characters any stronger.
Might be less bad if you feel attached to that war or know anything about it. The enemies are generic/bland and there is no feeling of war or danger or oppression at all.
nitin's review: http://www.celephais.net/board/vie...
Yeah I Liked It
#3328 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/06/07 05:05:48
thought it was quite fun and found the characterisation quite well developed. but definitely not your usual Leone western.
Exactly!
#3329 posted by Baker [99.187.187.157] on 2010/06/07 13:46:27
Anyone Else Seen Fringe
#3330 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/08 14:42:45
pilot episode is very cool.
That's The Thing With The Mad Scientist?
#3331 posted by mwh [217.140.96.22] on 2010/06/09 10:58:00
It gets pretty annoying pretty quickly if I remember right.
Yeah Thats The One
#3332 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/09 11:18:50
the next 2 eps have been underwhelming, seems more like CSI crossed with X-Files but unfortunately more CSI.
Still, will keep watching a bit more because that killer pilot ep cant be totally wasted.
Well
#3333 posted by SleepwalkR [141.23.20.26] on 2010/06/09 11:19:41
I haven't made it through the first half of the first season, but I hear it gets a lot better later on.
Hmm
#3334 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/06/09 17:55:41
Watched up to about half way through season 2. Good overall plot stuff, but way too much filler and it gets kinda cliched
Animlal Kingdom
#3335 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/11 16:21:22
if you like crime dramas, check out this new aussie flick. Excellent stuff.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt131309...
Sherlock Holmes
#3336 posted by nitin [124.168.66.168] on 2010/06/13 08:39:28
nowhere near as bad as I thought it would be and despite moments of Ritchie over-direction, its quite enjoyable thanks to the performances.
And a couple of nice action scenes even though they're in the wrong movie.
Hmm
#3337 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/06/26 04:40:13
Treme is god damn amazing. Up there with The Wire/Deadwood/Oz/etc.
Seriously, truly amazing.
Imdb Doesnt Say What Its About
#3338 posted by nitin [124.168.31.179] on 2010/06/26 11:01:58
Hmm
#3339 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/06/26 18:51:52
It's a series set in New Orleans 3-6 months after Katrina. Follows the lives of various people (mostly musicians) in the treme district of the city as they rebuild their lives after the destruction.
By the same guys who made The Wire, with several of the same actors and the same feel/style as that series (ie, very much a character piece).
And it's absolutely fantastic, series 1 just finished, cannot wait for series 2.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treme...
Cool
#3340 posted by nitin [124.168.31.179] on 2010/06/27 05:11:48
will check it out when it hits dvd.
This Is For Negke
#3341 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.75] on 2010/07/07 09:51:49
Clips from the thankfully cancelled US remake of Spaced:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDs...
#3342 posted by negke [88.70.234.20] on 2010/07/08 20:11:37
Thankfully cancelled indeed.
Treme
#3343 posted by DaZ [78.147.150.114] on 2010/07/11 00:59:48
Just wanted to say thanks to whoever it was that recommended Treme season 1, that was fantastic =)
#3344 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.80] on 2010/07/12 20:44:20
Underground (1995)
By Emir Kusturica. I love Black Cat, White Cat and I love the soundtrack to Underworld. So what could go wrong?
Well, Underground turned out to be a highly disturbing, depressing and weird movie. Perfect to read a book to and interpret why that horse ran through the scene at that point when that happened. Fuck.
Ultra-unrecommended unless you are an artsy-fartsy person who likes movies like 2001 and anything by Wes Anderson.
But if you like Balkan music, the soundtrack is ace (Goran Bregovic!). I especially like http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rm1...
Huh
#3345 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/07/12 21:43:54
i love 2001 and i'm not at all artsy fartsy. :P
well, i did need to watch a youtube video to understand the ending sequence.
I'm 'artsy Fartsy'
#3346 posted by nitin [124.168.40.160] on 2010/07/13 01:18:30
will check it out :)
INCEPTION
#3347 posted by Tronyn [24.222.116.132] on 2010/07/15 17:36:57
is going to be awesome, I'm pretty sure. fuck the backlash against nolan he rules.
Backlash??
#3348 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/07/16 03:16:50
easily the best commercial director going around at the moment. I cant wait.
#3349 posted by mwh [193.85.232.179] on 2010/07/16 10:30:04
I guess the dark knight wasn't as good as batman begins? I saw half of batman begins again the other week, it really is a very very good movie, although it probably has a bit too much going on.
No Way
#3350 posted by nitin [210.84.23.206] on 2010/07/16 14:16:56
TDK was better than BB even though thats a top film in itself.
Now Then.
#3351 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.9] on 2010/07/16 17:05:49
That is a subject of hot debate. I would personally err on the side of BB myself. But what's not in question is that are both excellent films and current pinnacles of the action / superhero genre. It's "awesome" vs. "awesome + a bit".
Hmm
#3352 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/07/16 17:10:27
Stylistically, BB was better (I like the mirrors and hot tub ;), plot/'film' wise I prefer TDK (they make good storage media)
#3353 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/07/16 19:34:04
batman begins had a better car chase sequence with cooler music. the joker/tunnel chase was good too, but batman looks like a bigger badass in begins.
Heheh
#3354 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/07/16 19:49:52
^ do i sense irony there? :P
i preferred batman begins too, but that may have been down to the insane amount of hype behind TDK in comparison
Batman Sucks...
#3355 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2010/07/16 20:52:16
... I prefer Superman :P
Bah
#3356 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/07/16 21:29:13
superman is a dick
Hmm
#3357 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/07/17 00:43:40
lawl. But yeh, Superman is a pansy, seriously.
Hmm
#3358 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/07/17 00:44:31
Altho tbh, Spider Jerusalem would kick both their arses
Inception
#3359 posted by rj [92.236.85.179] on 2010/07/18 11:45:48
it was good. not GREAT, but good. i enjoyed it and would love to watch it again but can't say i was totally blown away by it
the concept was intruiging and explored really well. it keeps you thinking without ever being too confusing or high-brow. some neat ideas and fascinating visuals.. and plenty to talk about when we left the cinema too
on the other hand, some of the action scenes felt a little too strung out, and the main character's sub-plot seemed to interfere a bit too much and wasn't all that satisfying. ellen page's character seemed to only exist to help explain to the audience what was happening (although i have to admit i was grateful for this in places)
definitely worth a watch, particularly if you like nolan's other stuff, but don't expect it to be teh bestest filum evar, although i would probably rank it as my favourite so far this year
Yeah
#3360 posted by Tronyn [24.222.116.132] on 2010/07/18 23:58:38
I generally agree - it is by far the most ambitious film I've ever seen in theatres, and it doesn't succeed 100%, but it is really awesome, the degree to which the concept is explored is impressive, and a lot of the action scenes were good. DiCaprio was good as the main character, I liked the stuff about his character though (SPOILER HINT ALERT) after seeing Shutter Island only a few months ago, it seemed almost too similar. Anyway, I enjoyed it a lot and I'm going to have to see it again. When Peter Jackson made Return of the King, the studios let him do whatever he want; he made "King Kong." Nolan's financial license from TDK seems to have been used for better purposes with this film.
Leo Seems To Specialize In Those Kinds Of Roles
#3361 posted by Drew [98.124.27.98] on 2010/07/19 13:45:08
he must really like em.
I loved the movie, but it is bound to be over-rated, and I've heard a couple people say it's 'the new matrix'.
I kind of agree in that I enjoyed the parts before everything started exploding more.
ps - king kong is kind of awesome.
Crap, I Need A New Tv Series To Watch.
#3362 posted by DaZ [92.26.167.253] on 2010/07/19 23:38:09
Maybe you guys can help, as you've been very helpful in the past! =)
What I've seen recently
BSG
SG-U
The Wire
Treme
The pacific
Now I'm twiddling my thumbs trying to find something worth watching again, any suggestions?
Dazbler.
#3363 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.171] on 2010/07/19 23:51:14
Don't have a TV but at bird's house recently have been watching Misfits and find it quite entertaining and a bit different, good dialogue too.
Daz
#3364 posted by nitin [210.84.23.206] on 2010/07/20 01:57:40
Deadwood and/or Carnivale is done I take it?
Otherwise, I love Mad Men (although it may not be your type of thing) and Breaking Bad is also excellent.
Hmm
#3365 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/07/20 03:32:00
Oz?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oz_(T...
(and yeh, I'd second the Deadwood/Carnivale too)
TV Shows
#3366 posted by pjw [75.128.249.127] on 2010/07/20 05:31:53
The only things I'm watching currently are True Blood and Justified, both of which are very good.
Yeah
#3367 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2010/07/20 09:22:50
Breaking Bad, True Blood, Justified, but also a new show called Persons Unknown
True Blood
#3368 posted by nitin [210.84.23.206] on 2010/07/20 12:44:16
I'm a little ambivalent towards this, the main character and her best friend are really grating on me. But some of the other stuff is good and its definitely watchable.
Agreed
#3369 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2010/07/20 13:03:19
but the brother is priceless and he alone makes it worthwhile
Totally Agree
#3370 posted by nitin [210.84.23.206] on 2010/07/20 13:26:14
his whole storyline is what is keeping me going in season 2 (3/4 of the way through).
Inception.
#3371 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.171] on 2010/07/21 14:11:26
Great film, does exactly what it promises, although the mad curving city shit is negligible. Like TDK it's an action crime thriller dressed up as (sort of) sci-fi, and it does that very well. The action is pretty average but the concept and the set-ups and dicking around with dreams within dreams are all very cool, I particularly like the "timings" aspect.
TBH I think a film doesn't really do the idea justice and it could easily be longer and more indepth, particularly with the background to both the dream-tinkerers (what context do they exist in) and their targets.
Predators.
#3372 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.171] on 2010/07/22 11:41:01
Sorry, I saw it. But at least you don't have to. A fine blend of cliches, vacuousness, contradictions and non-sequitors. The basic premise is fine, the characters are tolerable, but it's full of obvious errors and gaps. Not only obvious, but very obviously fixed to. Hour of brainstorming on the bog and I could have made it twice the film.
Inception
#3373 posted by mwh [118.92.175.237] on 2010/07/22 22:49:09
Really very good, yes. Nice to see a big budget film with a brain. Lots to say but don't want to give spoilers :-) Go see.
Inception
#3374 posted by DaZ [92.26.162.127] on 2010/07/24 00:41:44
Yeah its a great one!
I kinda feel the same way as Mr Rj about it, its certainly the best film I've seen this year. The trailer is a tad misleading as I was expecting more of an action heavy approach but the film is more of a discovery thriller with action tacked on, its not any worse off for it, I was just expecting something slightly different.
[now possible small spoilers part]
I found the whole idea of architects fascinating, as I'm sure a lot of other level designers did, as they get to basicly do your job at the highest level possible :) Ellen Page's character could have dropped a few Ogre's in or some scrags and I would have bought that completely :)
Really interesting film!
#3375 posted by mwh [118.92.175.237] on 2010/07/24 01:00:49
i'm not actually sure i like it more than kick-ass :) hard to compare though...
Action Tacked On?
#3376 posted by Drew [76.75.125.97] on 2010/07/24 14:51:45
seemed to me like the whole last half is an action scene.
#3377 posted by meTch [99.68.57.170] on 2010/07/25 18:50:10
tacked right on at the end, see, right after the climax.
Inception
#3378 posted by Vigil [213.243.147.121] on 2010/07/27 00:07:43
After Kick-Ass, Hot Tub Time Machine and Solomon Kane, it was brilliant. Best heist movie this year, definitely.
#3379 posted by Spirit [80.171.53.53] on 2010/07/31 01:36:53
Zombieland (2010)
Pretty mediocre after the good beginning. Bill Murray was just stupid (might have been fun for USA people, but over here he is not well known). And the whole setup for the ending was dumb. Good feedback on hits. 5/10
What?
#3380 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.96.68] on 2010/07/31 07:37:18
Over here, Bill Murray is not well known? You must have been born in the nineties.
#3381 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.142] on 2010/07/31 10:55:05
No, the eighties. And if it was not for the internet I would still not know him.
Bill Who?
#3382 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.201] on 2010/07/31 11:51:46
That was the low point of the film.
Bill Murray
#3383 posted by generic [67.233.149.177] on 2010/07/31 15:00:05
Wasn't he the kid in the Lost in Space television series? :D
Bill Murray
#3384 posted by RickyT23 [86.23.98.66] on 2010/07/31 16:22:12
Is a household name. He was the main guy in Ghostbusters for starters. Groundhog Day.....?
"Watched" Predators. Thought it was good.
"Good"
#3385 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.201] on 2010/07/31 20:14:22
Is obviously even more subjective than I thought :(
Ricky
#3386 posted by meTch [99.36.1.199] on 2010/08/01 01:41:26
the gopher (groundhog) one is Caddyshack
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bg8...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv8...
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt008048...
Metch
#3387 posted by nitin [124.148.181.100] on 2010/08/01 05:24:42
no he meant Groundhog Day, classic Bill Murray :
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt010704...
#3388 posted by meTch [99.36.1.199] on 2010/08/01 14:36:13
So he did 2 movies involving gophers! that knucklehead! :D
He's Also The Voice Of
#3389 posted by RickyT23 [86.23.98.66] on 2010/08/01 18:31:36
Garfield!
#3390 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/08/01 18:49:24
his later roles are kind of weak though, but yeah, back then he was hilarious.
#3391 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.86] on 2010/08/01 20:02:04
I just watched Payback and damn was it nice. Sure, some silly bits but overall it is Max Payne as a movie (ok, the other way around). The language was a bit hard to understand at times (spoken too muffled) and the soundtrack was sub-optimal, but I enjoyed like not many movies recently. Great cast too. I am surprised the previous posts here are so negative about it. I gave it 8/10 as I will definitely watch it again and recommend it further.
Pretty obvious how Max Payne was influenced by it, especially one song sounded very much like "Mona - The Professional" from MP2.
Payback
#3392 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.98.53] on 2010/08/01 21:27:48
is one of my alltime favorites as well!
Even Though Bill Murray Isn't In It?
#3393 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.86] on 2010/08/01 22:18:22
Up Yours
#3394 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.98.53] on 2010/08/01 22:38:38
Necros
#3395 posted by nitin [124.148.181.100] on 2010/08/02 01:05:11
I actually think he's funnier now than before, but I guess I prefer the deadpan stuff.
Max Payne Film
#3396 posted by DaZ [78.147.169.232] on 2010/08/02 02:04:12
...What
Some nice shots, but this was just baaaad. I was horrifically bored by the half way mark, and couldn't wait for it to end :/
Payback
#3397 posted by mwh [118.92.175.237] on 2010/08/02 21:44:06
is a fun ride. it's a shame phillip k. dick died before all his books/stories started to get made into movies :)
That's Paycheck.
#3398 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2010/08/02 21:50:29
Oops
#3399 posted by mwh [118.92.175.237] on 2010/08/02 21:51:06
LOL
#3400 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.102.153] on 2010/08/02 22:16:58
classic
Hmm
#3401 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/08/03 21:51:32
Further recommendations for DaZ (and anyone else, but he was the one asking about good TV series);
Just started rewatching Generation Kill, realised forgot to mention it previously, same people as The Wire/Treme (a lot Wire actors, mostly s2 guys, altho some others). It was a one off mini-series about the Iraq War, following one of the elite units in the US army. Based on the memoirs of the irl Lt. in the unit, very, very good and definately worth watching. Always makes me both want to join the army and realise why it would be a terrible idea.
Also, if you haven't watched it, go watch the Sopranos, if nothing else for the fact that it was one of the shows that started the 'epic season long plot line' style of TV.
Hmm
#3402 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/08/03 21:52:25
Also, new Futurama, new Futurama, new Futurama, etc, spoooge
But New
#3403 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/08/04 02:27:02
Futurama isnt good is it? Is it better than the 2-3 movies they released a while ago, I thought they were terrible.
Hmm
#3404 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/08/04 02:29:37
Surprisingly amusing actually. I'm a fanboy tho, Futurama is frankly my ideal life.
Hmm
#3405 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/08/04 02:29:58
And yeh, definately better than the movies.
Hmm
#3406 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/08/04 02:30:42
Definitely. Definitely. Definitely.
Twice today dammit.
Agree Nitin
#3407 posted by DaZ [78.147.174.84] on 2010/08/04 02:35:00
they were awful, it made me cry :(
Not seen the new season episodes yet, but friends say its good!
Thanks for the heads-up nonentity about Generation Kill, anything from those guys gets an auto-watch from me =)
I think it was Nitin who mentioned True Blood, its fecking awesome! I got through 2 seasons of it in as many weeks and am now just starting season 3. Seeing Anna Paquin get semi-naked in most episodes never hurts either, she's smokin.
As a heads-up, I watched the first episode of a new show on the BBC called "The Deep", it looks to be something like The Abyss in episodic form. This first episode is more of tease of what's coming later but held my interest nicely. Some fairly high production values also which never hurts, worth a punt!
GK
#3408 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/08/04 03:57:52
is in my next dvd order, looking forward to it.
I did mention True Blood but I was saying I didnt think it was that great, but definitely watchable. Sleepy mentioned Jason Stackhouse who is definitely the best reason for watching, everythign he does is hilarious.
Anyone seen John Adams, the HBO miniseries? Is it any good or just high production values with good actors but not much substance? And if you're not american, will you actually care?
More TV Shows
#3409 posted by SleepwalkR [85.177.91.171] on 2010/08/04 07:24:55
I have enjoyed Rescue Me, esp. the first three seasons are absolutely great, gritty and hilarious at the same time. It goes downhill after that, but I'll keep watching just for old times sake.
Dexter Obviously
#3410 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/08/04 07:59:04
despite the cop out endings to each of the first 3 seasons.
I also really like In Treatment even though that will only be for a select few people.
The one and only season of The Middleman is also quite entertaining.
Inception
#3411 posted by nitin [124.168.107.193] on 2010/08/05 16:13:32
just saw it tonight, definitely a great film but I do think the plotting was not quite upto the ambition and ideas. A few holes here and there stop it from being a classic but the sheer creativity and imagination on display is very welcome in the age of remakes and reboots.
#3412 posted by Spirit [80.171.97.23] on 2010/08/17 00:06:44
Kick Ass
Great except for some just a bit too out of character/style bits (wrgcnpx, onmbbxn, fghcvq Onq Erchgngvba fbat, rivy thl'f fba raqvat). A lot of things were just touched, especially the romance was so weak it could have been left out without loss. 7/10 or something, good rewatch potential.
Hmm
#3413 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/08/17 00:33:18
The romance was some bullshit made up for the film. It wasn't in the comics. At least not in the same way...
You're Kidding Me...
#3414 posted by Spirit [80.171.97.23] on 2010/08/17 00:57:15
I thought "oh well, I guess it came from the comic and they had to include it".
The soundtrack is great too. Apart from the Reputation track at least. For a Few Dollars More theme was a nice touch.
Hmm
#3415 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/08/17 01:02:25
Wasn't it mostly the new Prodigy album?
For A Few Dollars More Theme
#3416 posted by nitin [202.161.17.215] on 2010/08/17 01:07:22
is also in Fantastic Mr Fox, which is a nice little film by the way.
Kickass
#3417 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2010/08/17 10:04:58
Recently rewatched it after kinda liking it in the cinema... although I thought that the whole stereotypical teen comedy stuff should have been left out of the movie, because it just didn't add anything to it other than the occasional "funny" bit, it felt like a fun movie that occasionally was a blast to watch.
The rewatch totally made me think of it as a much worse movie. If you expect the surprising blow-you-away scenes, you basically just sit through all the other stuff to see them, and then those scenes themselves are less than impressing, because all the other stuff didn't leave enough impression to contrast them.
And Payback
#3418 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2010/08/17 10:05:19
if you're referring to the movie with mel gibson, it rocks.
Hmm
#3419 posted by nitin [202.161.17.215] on 2010/08/17 12:30:54
sounds like Payback is worth a watch. Which version are people on about? The recut newish dvd version or the original theatrical cut?
A quick look shows they are quite different.
#3420 posted by Spirit [80.171.95.202] on 2010/08/17 12:39:46
Seems like I watched the original, but the DC seems quite interesting too. It also has a higher rating at imdb and people say it is even darker. Thanks for making me aware of it.
#3421 posted by Spirit [80.171.97.206] on 2010/08/22 01:40:49
Salt (2010)
Highly recommended NOT to watch. It does not go anywhere, is boring, weird, super unrealistic and clichee and duuuuh. 3/3 watchers said "thanks god we did not pay for this". Some sequences could be watched as involuntarily Crank-like but they were rare and groaners nonetheless.
#3422 posted by Spirit [80.171.95.102] on 2010/08/27 01:02:04
Sherlock Holmes (2009)
Draaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaag. Boring, weird mish-mash of classic things and idiotic special effects, annoying clichees/cliffhangers, I don't like Downey Jr, did not really like the music. Guy Ritchie lost his appeal to me (did not like RocknRolla already, love his older stuff though).
I Enjoyed It
#3423 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/08/27 06:05:05
but I went in thinking it would be disastrous.
Has Some Funny Moments
#3424 posted by RickyT23 [86.142.195.34] on 2010/08/27 10:21:48
Like the part where he gets into the barenuckle boxing match.
Didnt Like That Bit
#3425 posted by nitin [203.217.67.37] on 2010/08/27 11:02:10
but some of it was much cleverer than I thought it would be.
#3426 posted by Spirit [80.171.83.166] on 2010/08/27 11:27:17
That bit was the beginning of the dislike for me. :)
I too liked some bits, like when he had those explanation moments, but then those were chopped together so quickly and weird, and his voice is super hard to understand.
#3427 posted by Spirit [80.171.95.111] on 2010/08/29 21:49:06
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Another movie that showed me how US centric IMDB ratings really are. Music was rare and when, it was devastating (imagine watching an action scene with something like http://www.jamendo.com/track/63680... ). Beginning was so boring and then annoyingly "hollywood romantic" (with "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head" playing, yeah, that's the 1969 equivalent of The White Stripes opening a James Bond wannabe movie) I almost quit, but I saw nitin's review and gave it a try. Story was good in the middle, then they got to bolivia and it dragged along, not deciding to be funny or serious. Bah.
5/10
Funny tidbit: The part when they jumped into the water has been borrowed in Resident Evil 5 (or whatever generic PS3 game that was, maybe Uncharted?).
Thats A Classic IMHO
#3428 posted by nitin [203.217.67.37] on 2010/08/30 01:12:54
yes the music doesnt quite fit but otherwise, its a classic film in all respects.
The Expendables
#3429 posted by starbuck [92.236.80.129] on 2010/09/07 17:20:23
Bad movie, or WORST movie? Discuss.
#3430 posted by [78.54.86.99] on 2010/09/07 17:24:19
Bad movie. Not worst because it was totally to be expected especially considering the cast. While we're at it Iron Man 2 is extremely bad too.
HOBO With A SHOTGUN!
#3431 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2010/09/07 20:24:26
they're making a real movie out of this, and it starts Rutger Hauer:
http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Hob...
Speaking of which, still need to see Machete...
Yeah
#3432 posted by nitin [124.148.168.212] on 2010/09/08 12:09:00
havent seen it but how can it be worst when the expectations arent that high?
Iron Man 2 has a good first half, bad second half.
I Fully Intend To Watch The Expendables...
#3433 posted by mwh [202.124.96.158] on 2010/09/09 05:09:24
... on my next long haul flight, with the accompaniment of as much wine as I can sweet talk out of the cabin crew.
Hmm
#3434 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/09/09 16:16:14
Four Lions is hilarious. Thoroughly recommend it. Good example of 'british humour' that's not benny hill.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt134116...
(It's the new Chris Morris film, he of Brass Eye, etc)
#3435 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.114] on 2010/09/25 22:56:24
National Treasure (2004)
So dramatic. So patriotic. Such vibrant score. A Treasure.
Utter crap. The story is so bad it could be a videogame plot. Ok, it is still better than HL2 but come on. I like Cage so no idea about acting. Music is videogame quality, sounds like Call of Synthsized Orchestra with Drums and Bass #56. Wait, I am writing too much already. This is not worth it. 3/10 for me, seriously.
Dear god, they made a sequel.
Lmao
#3436 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/09/25 23:41:54
yeah, the national treasure movies weren't amazing or anything. since i'm not american, i can watch them more objectively, because the patriotism doesn't apply. :P
still, they are very fun movies that move along quickly and deliver action with more than just guns and explosions, but a sense of adventure. in a lot of ways they remind me of indiana jones which is still a favourite of mine. :)
Hmm
#3437 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/09/26 00:40:03
Vaguely-Interesting-Facttruth of the day;
Nicholas Cage is Francis Ford Copolla's nephew. It makes his entire career make sense. Like the fact he has one...
I Like Nicholas Cage...
#3438 posted by pjw [96.42.24.247] on 2010/09/26 01:45:27
...not that I'm arguing he hasn't been in some pretty iffy movies, but he's been in some good ones too. Wild At Heart is one of my faves.
Holycrap U Gave That Move 3 Points?
#3439 posted by meTch [99.33.196.171] on 2010/09/26 03:03:54
stop being so generous, we all know it's a 1.009 and the squeal is a .000000000001
Wild At Heart
#3440 posted by nitin [203.158.33.129] on 2010/09/26 03:11:55
saw that a few weeks ago and I really disliked it. Being a Lynch fan, I was up for some good fucked up stuff, but my reaction to it was similar to Twin Peaks : Fire Walk With Me, the only other Lynch film I have really disliked.
But it had enough qualities to make me keep it and try it again some day.
Hmm
#3441 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/09/26 03:29:02
I'm not saying he hasn't been in some good films. It's just they tend to be good despite him. I can't really think of any that are good because of having nicholas cage in (or at least that wouldn't be improved by replacing him with another actor).
Adaptation
#3442 posted by nitin [203.158.33.129] on 2010/09/26 04:13:28
is the only one I can think of where he made the movie. Otherwise I generally agree about Cage.
The Weather Man
#3443 posted by SleepwalkR [85.177.88.135] on 2010/09/26 07:39:15
He was good in that one, too I think - his style of acting fits the role there. And there is one scene in tricks (the pharmacy scene) where he redeems the whole stupid movie by playing a guy with lots of ticks who finds out that the medication he received from his doctor for weeks was in fact supplements. Too bad I can't find it on youtube.
Ah
#3444 posted by SleepwalkR [85.177.88.135] on 2010/09/26 07:42:39
The movie is called Matchstick Men and there scene is here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HM6...
Oh Yeah
#3445 posted by nitin [203.158.33.129] on 2010/09/26 10:03:51
Matchstick Men is good too, as is something like Bringing out the Dead but I think Adaptation's the only time I couldnt imagine anyone but Cage in the role.
I Didn't Like It That Much
#3446 posted by SleepwalkR [85.177.88.135] on 2010/09/26 10:40:38
I thought it was predictable and contrived... but then it has the above scene and Sam Rockwell, who is pretty much always great.
Kick Ass Is Good
#3447 posted by RickyT23 [82.26.222.218] on 2010/09/26 14:54:01
My fave Cage flick though is Raising Arizona. He fits that style perfectly.
TBH he is a bit of an enigma - how his career is still intact after that movie Ghost Rider, and stuff like The Sorcerers Apprentice, I will never unhderstand. I guess it's cause Fun Family Blockbusters sell well.
Oh - And The Expendables
#3448 posted by RickyT23 [82.26.222.218] on 2010/09/26 14:57:01
Is HILARIOUS. Just watching Sly Stallone running around with all of that eye make-up on, spurting loads of macho one-liners and trying to act all macho when he obviously has a self-induced hormone imbalance - priceless. And the cheesiest monologue of all time at the end, which Statham recites. But the action scenes aren't bad to watch, atleast the first time round.
#3449 posted by Spirit [80.171.84.80] on 2010/09/26 20:55:55
Mr Deeds goes to town (the new one with Adam Sandler)
A disgusting slut that not very convincingly changes. The usual annoying music. Some great laughs. Bit of a mixture between comedy, drama and very surreal sequences that sometimes just did not fit in my opinion. Overall a feel good movie but because of that weird uncertainty what it tries to be I would not consider it too good.
Ya
#3450 posted by Tronyn [205.200.214.145] on 2010/09/26 21:32:47
I dislike Nicholas Cage a lot but I thought he was perfectly cast in Lord of War.
Jesus Spirit
#3451 posted by Drew [74.14.183.34] on 2010/09/26 22:57:16
You choose to watch some real classics!
Ooo
#3452 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/09/26 23:19:47
yeah, lord of war was great. :)
Sleepy
#3453 posted by nitin [203.158.33.129] on 2010/09/27 01:35:41
actually I totally forgot about the last good Nic Cage film I watched, Bad Lieutenant. If you like that part from Matchstick Men, you should check it out, it's like Werner Herzog wanted to do a Nic Cage movie and married the tone to his acting style.
Wait, there's people that like Lord of War?
The Original Mr Deeds Is Much Better, Although Only A Decent Film At B
#3454 posted by nitin [203.158.33.129] on 2010/09/27 01:36:21
Bad Lieutenant
#3455 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.100.242] on 2010/09/27 06:49:32
thanks, I'll watch that. I can't imagine it being better than the original though. But then, it doesn't have to be as long as it's entertaining.
I watched 2012 yesterday (a strange series of events led me there), and that was the worst movie I have seen ever. There is nothing redeeming about it - it's just all bad. Unbelievable.
Sleepy
#3456 posted by nitin [203.158.33.129] on 2010/09/27 09:01:34
completely different movie, in fact I have no idea why they share the same title. Black comedy abounds though :)
saw Kick Ass, was entertaining enough but nowhere near as outrageous (or satisfying) as I was expecting. I actually wanted more Nic Cage (and his Adam West impersonation).
24 Season 8
#3457 posted by DaZ [92.26.160.32] on 2010/09/28 00:35:52
So I was watching through this season and I noticed a familiar name in the starting credits, "Merle Dandridge". Couldn't quite place it at first..
Its the actor who voices Alyx in HL2+episodes. It was so bizarre seeing her on the screen and hearing her talk =) I half expected barney to run in at any point to protect her from headhumpers.
As for 24, Im not really feeling season 8 so far, too many changes and new people introduced. Overall though its a great show, really really enjoyed a few seasons of it!
24
#3458 posted by nitin [203.158.33.129] on 2010/09/28 01:11:33
died at the end of season 4 IMHO. Or at least had a steady continuous decline since then.
Season 4
#3459 posted by DaZ [92.26.160.32] on 2010/09/28 03:30:21
is that the one with Audrey Reins british husband in it? That was an amazing season purely for that scene (SPOILER------) where Jack has to chose between sacrificing the british guy or saving his informant (or whoever he was). Such fantastic drama there.
I agree the later seasons have not been as good, but I did enjoy season 7 purely for the character of that fbi woman who slowly gets corrupted by jack, I thought was quite interesting to see.
#3460 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/09/28 03:30:44
good lord, that lasted 8 seasons? i could barely stand the first. -_-
I Watched A Few Episodes Once
#3461 posted by meTch [99.33.196.171] on 2010/09/28 05:02:25
the run down seems to always be;
cellphone talk
dramatic camera shots of people driving while talking on cellphones
a four screen shot showing the good guys walking around looking important while the bad guys walk around with guns looking like sleazeballs
maybe an action scene
talking or something (never stayed to see these end parts)
end
24 sucked (i state that opinion as a fact)
Daz
#3462 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/09/28 06:34:14
yeah that's the one. Also had some of the best action scenes in the whole series.
Hmm
#3463 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/09/29 12:58:10
good lord, that lasted 8 seasons? i could barely stand the first. -_-
#3464 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/09/29 14:42:59
the run down seems to always be;
cellphone talk
dramatic camera shots of people driving while talking on cellphones
a four screen shot showing the good guys walking around looking important while the bad guys walk around with guns looking like sleazeballs
maybe an action scene
talking or something (never stayed to see these end parts)
end
that is pretty much bang on the money, but it's still fucking awesome :D
i've only seen the first 4 though - watching the wire at the moment and want to check prison break out after, but will finish it eventually. i remember reading there was a feature length episode between two seasons a while back - anyone know which ones & if it had a name?
also why are we talking 24 in the film thread anyway :Z
Heh
#3465 posted by Bal [90.2.107.6] on 2010/09/29 14:50:21
Going from The Wire to Prison Break might be kind of painful... :)
Rj
#3466 posted by DaZ [92.26.173.117] on 2010/09/29 15:50:03
yeah it was at the beginning of season 7 and was called "redemption". It was ok, it basicly setup the story for season 7. Nothing to write home about though.
is Prison Break any good? Have not really heard much about it :P
Nah
#3467 posted by nitin [124.148.168.36] on 2010/09/29 16:21:51
skip prison break. all of it.
Move straight to Deadwood if you havent already.
Deadwood
#3468 posted by Bal [90.2.107.6] on 2010/09/29 17:07:46
I never started watching Deadwood cause I heard there wasn't ever any closure to the series.
I know an ending isn't the most important thing in a show/movie, but that still bothers me, should I watch it anyways?
Bal
#3469 posted by nitin [124.148.168.36] on 2010/09/29 17:09:18
it has enough of an ending.
Prison Break
#3470 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.3.213] on 2010/09/29 18:18:32
I think the first two seasons are not bad, in fact they are very enthralling. It gets really really bad after that though. Horrible, even.
Hmm
#3471 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/09/29 20:36:23
Deadwood has a good enough ending. Yeh, it's not all loose ends tied up, but I kinda like that, makes it feel more real...
And it's one of the best TV series around.
Yes
#3472 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.3.213] on 2010/09/29 22:26:53
Deadwood is amazing. Timothy Olyphant's new show is very good, too. It's called "Justified".
Also
#3473 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.97.102] on 2010/09/29 23:18:22
Breaking Bad is excellent.
Cheers Daz
#3474 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/09/29 23:22:36
still want to see it for completeness' sake. have a whole 2 seasons to get through first though it seems!
just finished season 3 of the wire tonight - fucking brilliant viewing. i can't say i expect prison break to be anything like in the same class but from the few episodes i have seen (season 1) it seems entertaining enough; more in the 24 kind of mould
i'll remember deadwood for after; know absolutely nothing about it though in honesty. also been recommended the shield too. and dexter... so much tv so little time ;/
Started Californication This Week
#3475 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2010/09/29 23:28:07
If you like a little fucked up family dramedy with your soft core porn, this one's for you.
Hmm
#3476 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/09/30 01:29:59
Oh, recommended before, but if you like The Wire then Treme is the new series by the same writers (and several of the same cast). Set in New Orleans following the hurricane and follows musicians, chefs, academics and mardi gras indians (among others) as they rebuild. Very, very good.
Breaking Bad
#3477 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/09/30 02:48:17
is pure genius in season 2, pretty good in season 1 too but seaosn 2 really hits its straps nicely.
The three great supportign characters on tv right now IMHO : Jason Stackhouse (True Blood), Pete Campbell (Mad Men) and Jesse Pinkman (Breaking Bad).
Oh, and another plug for Mad Men, the best of the current drama on tv IMHO.
Rj
#3478 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/09/30 02:49:26
season 4 is the pick of the bunch too I think, you should get on to that quick :)
Sleepy, what's Justified like? I know the basic premise but what's the tone meant to be like?
Justified
#3479 posted by SleepwalkR [78.52.101.97] on 2010/09/30 06:53:48
I am finding it kinda hard to define that show. It's mostly about this marshall character and his friends, family, history. It's pretty funny because Timothy Olyphant is funny. It has a good cast and the stories are interesting. But it's not the stories that make the show, it's the dialogue and Timothy Olyphant's great delivery combined with quirky and crazy southerners ;-).
Kinda hard to dscribe, really, now that I think about it. I like the atmosphere of the show.
Cool
#3480 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/09/30 07:21:01
will add it to the list of things ot eventually watch.
Hmm
#3481 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/10/01 09:16:59
Boardwalk Empire.
Yeah
#3482 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2010/10/01 10:25:41
I like it - gonna keep watching!
We Probably Wont Get That For Years In Aus
#3483 posted by nitin [124.148.168.36] on 2010/10/01 12:59:05
they only started Deadwood now here.
#3484 posted by spirit [82.113.106.200] on 2010/10/02 00:24:55
Aviator
Boring and terrible. We fast forwarded the last 30 minutes...
No Way
#3485 posted by nitin [124.148.168.36] on 2010/10/02 03:31:15
easily the best Scorsese movie of the last 15 years IMHO.
Started Watching The Wire About 2 Weeks Ago
#3486 posted by Tronyn [205.200.214.145] on 2010/10/02 05:53:30
christ this show is awesome. And I'd thought that realistic depictions of american economics were impossible on TV. Nice to hear the show creator say,
I'll tell you what, this would be enough for me: The next time the drug czar or Ashcroft or any of these guys stands up and declares, "With a little fine-tuning, with a few more prison cells, and a few more lawyers, a few more cops, a little better armament, and another omnibus crime bill that adds 15 more death-penalty statutes, we can win the war on drugs" -- if a slightly larger percentage of the American population looks at him and goes, "You are so full of shit" ... that would be gratifying.
the idea that drug dealers are evil and that capitalist bosses are good - christ, what a specifically American form of hypocritical lie. IQ test to vote please. Eugenics please.
I Should Specify
#3487 posted by Tronyn [205.200.214.145] on 2010/10/02 06:09:56
that what I mean is NOT RACIALLY BASED EUGENICS, I mean a license to have kids based on IQ, non-addiction, non-craziness (including, in fact ESPECIALLY, religiosity), non psychopathy, etc. Lack of hereditary diseases. The reason I feel so OK to put forth such a universally attacked concept, is that I include myself in it: I've enough genetic problems/dispositions, that I would and do consent not to have kids. Why can't people way dumber than me think the same? Oh, right, BECAUSE THEY ARE DUMBER, and more likely to act like animals (ie, eat, fuck, etc). Where's Lovecraft when you need him.
Damn It
#3488 posted by Tronyn [205.200.214.145] on 2010/10/02 07:39:11
now I realize that anyone who's read much Lovecraft realizes that he was a racist. What I mean, is not that. My main target is religious people - in the states most of 'em are white and I'd love to sterilize them all - for example there is a cult called the QUIVERFULLS taking their name from some biblical quotation that children are like arrows in your quiver that you shoot out into the world, in order to convert it all. Stupid religious people are my target - and race, or culture, is irrelevant. If you're dumb enough to believe in invisible shit and try to influence public politics FU and this is the biggest fight that civilization has on its hands today, between Islam and Christianity we might all just get totally fucked. IQ test to vote and many more tests to breed might just turn back the tide of these retarded motherfuckers and if I'm still alive in 50 years and I see a world even dumber and more faithful than I see it now I'm going mcveigh or unabomber style. Jokes I'm using one bullet not 300. But come on whoever denies evolution and science has no right to have kids who're gonna be genetically susceptible to bullshit like them, much less the right to indoctrinate them at home. I have no kids nor will I ever to care about. I am just offended by the ascendence of stupidity.
#3489 posted by starbuck [217.41.45.253] on 2010/10/02 08:58:01
I was going to suggest keeping the drunk posting in the relevant place (politics thread?) but I enjoyed that rant immensely, 5 Unabombers out of 5.
Everybody Probably Knows
#3490 posted by megaman [217.229.155.87] on 2010/10/04 09:57:28
But clash of the titans (2010) should be skipped even if you're in the mood for brainless action or mind-blowing effects (they were quite bad actually).
On the other hand, that Dorian Gray movie was interesting. Not necessarily a good movie, though.
I Saw Dorian Gray This Friday
#3491 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.97.102] on 2010/10/04 17:17:31
Your mileage may vary, but I found it pretty decent.
Haven't read the novel though.
Dorian Gray
#3492 posted by nitin [124.148.168.36] on 2010/10/06 13:08:29
is a great piece of writing and although I've only seen the 1946 version, there really cant be a bad adaptation of it.
#3493 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.40] on 2010/10/10 14:43:52
Cloudy with a chance of meatballs
Nice style, great laughs (with always perfect timing). Absolutely recommended if you like animation movies.
Don't watch the trailer, it gives away 95% of the whole story...
Too Late...
#3494 posted by metlslime [67.188.81.46] on 2010/10/10 19:41:44
Yeah
#3495 posted by nitin [124.148.168.36] on 2010/10/11 00:02:40
I enjoyed that, lovely visuals and some good gags.
Shutter Island
#3496 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/10/11 01:18:18
loved this. saw roughly where it was going about halfway through but most of the 'sub-twists' i didn't get (ie. the explanations behind the details). i definitely want to see it again to pick up on stuff.
leo is getting to be one of my favourite actors. he's great in this, and in some ways i couldn't help comparing his character to cobb from inception... there are a few parallels and i think this film executes them slightly better.
in relation to a post by nitin a short while ago i'd probably even rate this as my fav scorsese film (although i haven't seen the aviator admittedly)
Blood Diamond
#3497 posted by RickyT23 [82.26.222.218] on 2010/10/11 02:46:51
was a good movie
So Was
#3498 posted by Drew [174.89.237.186] on 2010/10/11 03:17:51
Critters 3
He Was In Body Of Lies And The Beach Though...
#3499 posted by mwh [202.124.96.158] on 2010/10/11 03:20:44
and they weren't.
(sorry, just wanted to give those films a kick, he's certainly been in some good stuff)
I Didnt Like Shutter Island Much Actually
#3500 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/10/11 05:21:02
in fact I'd take the above average Body of lies over it anyday :)
Shutter Island's plot (which admittedly comes straight from the book) just didnt sit well with me.
#3501 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/10/11 05:52:54
I liked the time period. I liked the 'mood.' I did not like the 'twist' because it was something you could predict from the commercials.
#3502 posted by Spirit [82.113.106.205] on 2010/10/11 08:05:31
Watched The Expendables yesterday. Waste of time.
#3503 posted by Spirit [80.171.159.139] on 2010/10/11 12:50:51
Gobelins school of art and animation -> Annecy festival -> short films
http://www.pandemoniumart.net/2010...
Jean-Luc: Crazy, weird.
Le Royaume: Dark humour. Great! (Frenchos, what is the king saying/demanding?)
Smoke my Christmas: Ending ruined it. :(
Trois petits points: Cute and evil, historic.
I love you: Super creepy and disturbing. Didn't watch.
M. Eustache: Short but funny.
Soapy trip: Awesome!
Chaman: Beautiful.
Red river bay: Gorgeous!
Junk Space: Nice style.
Some are not safe for work.
#3504 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/10/11 18:42:16
I did not like the 'twist' because it was something you could predict from the commercials
fortunately i knew pretty much nothing about the film before seeing it, just went by a recommendation.. which probably helped. but even then the overall twist is made pretty obvious throughout the film; it's just the details that click together in a surprising way
Teeth.
#3505 posted by Shambler [86.25.165.239] on 2010/10/13 20:52:24
Promising premise that had the potential to be weird, darkly humourous, and totally fucked up, but it just didn't capitalise on it. Because the premise is such a one trick pony, it needed a lot more atmosphere and clever set-ups to keep it gripping and freaking, but it didn't have that (apart from the brother's flashback maybe).
Dull and disappointing.
#3506 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2010/10/13 20:54:02
Is that the one where a chick's vag has a snaggletooth or something?
Rofl
#3507 posted by DaZ [78.147.146.14] on 2010/10/14 13:59:17
what
Errr Yes.
#3508 posted by Shambler [86.25.165.239] on 2010/10/14 14:15:04
Don't see what the confusion is there, Daz??
Hmm
#3509 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/10/14 15:15:17
Yeh. That films terrible. Only thing worse is Shrooms.
Anyone Seen
#3510 posted by RickyT23 [86.142.195.34] on 2010/10/14 15:40:06
"The Killer Inside Me"? Recent film with the guy who plays the coward Robert Ford in that recent Brad Pitt movie. I thought that TKIM was a very well made and well acted film, and the lead character plays another scumbag who everyone is supposed to hate. And it has 2 A list hotties in it, who get their boobs out! :D But MY GOD this film is horrid. Really gritty and horrible. Some of th most harrowing death scenes I have ever seen. More disturbing than any of the SAW movies, but that is because it is excruciatingly realistic and un-glamorous. Watch it if you are feeling like a tough guy.
Ricky
#3511 posted by nitin [124.149.82.115] on 2010/10/14 15:51:11
its in my next order, but everyone seems to have the same reaction as you.
#3512 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/10/14 17:41:07
teeth was terrible, but terrible in a good way if that makes any sense. it was still entertaining and quite comically fucked up; left me sitting cross-legged too :Z
Walk The Line
#3513 posted by RickyT23 [86.142.195.34] on 2010/10/21 12:09:41
Loved this movie, cried all the way through. If you haven't seen it I recommend it. Amazing story!
The Town
#3514 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/21 12:44:23
proof that Gone Baby Gone was no fluke from Ben Affleck.
This isnt as good, its more of a genre crime drama, but what's here is skilfully executed, including the best car chase since Ronin.
7-7.5/10
Back To The Future
#3515 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/10/24 02:25:27
Watched the trilogy recently, def. up there with the Indiana Jones trilogy. Crystal Skull does not exist.
Anyhoo, total awesome 80s vibe, great action scenes, super fun flick overall.
#3516 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/10/24 03:35:47
back to the future is one of those films (set of films...) that are still nearly as funny as when they originally came out.
still one of my favourites.
#3517 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/10/24 04:21:36
Unfortunately I last saw them when I was a wee lad, and I didn't quite remember the whole "mom coming onto son" angle from the first film. Feel kinda bad that I thought it was a bit hot. =/
I Havent Seen 2 And 3
#3518 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/24 04:42:32
but will rectify that when I get the upcoming blu ray release.
And hey, I liked Indy 4 :) Way better than Indy 2.
No Way
#3519 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/10/24 05:10:07
Indy 2 was >>>>> Indy 4. Indy is just aboot even with Indies 1 and 3.
Let Me In
#3520 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2010/10/24 06:18:56
I absolutely loved this movie.
#3521 posted by rj [86.0.165.149] on 2010/10/24 09:54:06
And hey, I liked Indy 4 :) Way better than Indy 2.
i'm glad i'm not the only one who thinks that. i wouldn't put any of them in my all time favourites but they're good fun classic adventure movies and 4 was no different; it just went a bit x-files at the end, which didn't sit well with most (i thought it was incorporated pretty well)
this weekend i have seen:
the book of eli - this was interesting, i liked the exploration of different attitudes to religion. pretty slow but with some decent action scenes; the twist was maybe a bit far-fetched but ultimately kind of touching
toy story 3 - this is just awesome, best of the 3. if it doesn't make you a little bit emotional then you have no soul
Hahah
#3522 posted by ijed [190.22.15.126] on 2010/10/24 15:10:26
Have you seen the South Park with Lucas and Spielberg raping Indiana Jones?
It was a shite film. Sorry.
I Feel Like There's
#3523 posted by meTch [99.51.244.83] on 2010/10/24 15:28:14
a story hole in back to the future 2, when oldBiff goes back in time to give the almanac to youngBiff- he makes it back to his regular time(2015)no problem. Yet when the Doc and Marty go back to 1985 they go to the alternate 1985 where Biff is like the lord of the earth. so my question is how did oldBiff get to his normal 2015 and not an alternate one?
I've got a few ideas maybe but when I think of them more they don't really make sense and I dont want this to be a full page essay-post.
fuk I should have just recognized these movies as awesome and left it at that but noooo, I had to give it thought...
#3524 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/10/24 15:35:31
Yeah it felt Indiana Jonesy, and I will admit I didn't mind the alien being(s) as weird, at least it's a bit more believable than the Ark of the Covenant, three Indian god stones, or that cup or whatever.
The problem for me was that it jumped the shark a bit much in the action department and I didn't see the need to add Shia Labeouf, who I'm not a fan of but he didn't do a terrible job in the movie.
Yeah the fridge part was stupid, and so was swinging from the trees, which apparently Lucas and co realize was stupid and Indy 5 should be a ton better. So here's hoping Indy 5 completes the quadrilogy!
Metch
#3525 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/10/24 15:39:07
I know I was thinking the same thing while watching it. There's actually a ton of plot holes and stuff, but that's okay. I tried not to think too much about it, but I ended up coming up with an interwoven timeline theory where certain timelines only exist with the help of time travelers creating paradoxes in the past, but can still loop back into its 'twin' timeline to create the 'real' future. I have no idea how that actually works, but its my best guess.
Old Skool.
#3526 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.9] on 2010/10/24 19:51:51
Had a pre-halloween treat of rewatching The Thing after many years. Very dated but still very good. Forgotten that it had a decent vibe as well as quality gore. Great ending too.
Metch
#3527 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/10/24 20:52:01
yeah, pretty much. oldbiff should have returned to the alternate future so he'd be rich (which was the whole point of him going after all... he must have been pissed when he got out of the car and noticed nothing had changed. -_-)
unless we're meant to understand that the future DID change around doc/marty but that the changes didn't affect the area they were in, which doesn't really make sense since marty's parents are completely changed in the alternate timeline.
otoh, doc/marty are kind of already out of the house by the time oldbiff lands... soooo maybe we're supposed to believe they *just* missed his old parents poofing.
yeah... -_- these are movies you gotta just accept because they break down when you analyze them too heavily.
it's like avatar->floating islands with water pouring out of them. :PPP
What About The Terminator?@
#3528 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.235.109] on 2010/10/24 21:40:30
Anyone watch the series? It looked like season 3 was gonna be extremely complicated. Shame they didn't finish it. But even the first movie is full of holes. Just the idea of John Connor sending Kyle Reese back to rescue his mother, but How could there have been a future John Connor if he has to send his own father back in time to conceive him. How can he possibly be in a position to do that if he never existed?
Hello Long Haul Air Travel!
#3529 posted by mwh [71.16.235.2] on 2010/10/24 22:09:50
The Last Airbender
Not very good.
2001: A Space Odyssey
I fell asleep in the slow (relative term here) bits. Still, to see this in the cinema in 1968 must have been quite something.
The A Team
I think I remember a review of this movie saying that it had no reason to exist at all. Well, they were wrong: it took away the pain of the last 2 hours of a 12 hour flight quite nicely. I wouldn't go so far as to say that it was good, but it was what I was looking for at the time.
Most Time Travel Movies
#3530 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/10/25 01:31:58
have faulty logic (Ricky's already mentioned the massive hole in T1). 12 Monkeys is the one of the few that work from memory.
Also Primer, although you need to read the wiki entry to actually follow the bloody thing.
There's prbably others but I cant think of them right now.
As For Indy 2
#3531 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/10/25 01:32:42
after the Hong Kong opening, it was all downhill.
1 and 3 are great films. 4 is decent IMHO.
I Never Watched Avatar
#3532 posted by meTch [99.51.244.83] on 2010/10/25 02:05:18
but I saw the Matrix and knew the Pocahontas story sense I was like 3 so I figured I didn't have to...
#3533 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2010/10/25 02:08:46
I thought terminator 1 actually made sense, it's only the logic of the characters that is faulty.
Skynet and John Connor both send people back in time; Skynet attempts to change the past (though it cannot.) John either believes Kyle Reece is necessary to prevent changing the past (by saving Sarah) or he knows the past can't be changed and he knows sending Kyle is neccessary to fulfill the past. (By getting her pregnant.)
In either case, Kyle and the Terminator merely play out the existing story of the past, doing their parts to ensure that the future happens as it must.
However, Terminator 2 screws it all up.
Sorry Yeah
#3534 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/10/25 02:31:07
T1 + T2 dont make sense.
The T1 hole that Ricky mentions specifically does have an answer, ie someone else could have got Sarah pregnant if it was not Kyle Reese.
And becasue of the above, I always took it to be the first (John sending back to prevent a change in the past by saving Sarah).
Naah
#3535 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.235.109] on 2010/10/25 02:52:41
It doesn't make sense.
You see if John Connor (the original future John Connor) sends Kyle Reese back though time and then Kyle Reese impregnates Sarah Connor, it would change half of J.C's genetic code. So then it's a different future John Connor who would have to send Kyle Reese back in time again. And there we have the problem - there are TWO instances of Kyle Reese being sent back in time, but only one instance of him arriving.
You see if thee original J.C. didn't know that Kyle was his father, and the second time he did, then there has to be two instances of Kyle Reese being sent back in time. And because there is only one instance of Kyle arriving, to me anyway, that is impossible.
Excellent Movie Though
#3536 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.235.109] on 2010/10/25 02:54:08
One of my all time favourites. I will watch it again and again and again....
#3537 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2010/10/25 04:08:15
what makes you think Kyle Reese isn't John Connor's father in the first place?
Kyle Reese
#3538 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/10/25 07:10:31
could not be JC's father though. The time loop has to start somewhere or JC to send him back.
As for Ricky's post, once KR impregantes SC, there is a new alternate future created (assuming the future can be altered, which it cannot according to later movies). In that new future, if JC still needed to send someone back, it could be someone other than KR.
#3539 posted by metlslime [67.188.81.46] on 2010/10/25 08:50:26
I don't think the time loop has to start somewhere. I find the idea of a causal loop just as plausible (or more plausible) than multiple timelines.
Need Title
#3540 posted by Vigil [213.243.145.129] on 2010/10/25 10:15:03
Isn't the whole point of the movie that John Connor specifically sends Kyle Reese because John knows who the father is?
T1's hole comes from viewers overcomplicating time travel.
Vigil
#3541 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/25 11:35:45
maybe in T1 but the rest of them dont seem to fit that.
metl, yeah fair point, it works on the causal loop interpretation. I just dont like that theory on TT :)
#3542 posted by meTch [99.51.244.83] on 2010/10/25 12:55:42
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8w...
this from now on.
#3543 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/10/25 20:34:36
haha yeah, there's even a line similar to that in bttf2 where marty tells doc they have to go back to 1955 and doc says that either 1955 is like some blah blah scientific sounding nexus of time or it's just a huge coincidence. :P
Interesting
#3544 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/25 21:43:47
time travel movies I saw this year: timecrimes and triangle. both of them seemed to make more sense than the average movie which tries to handle this stuff.
Timecrimes
#3545 posted by Drew [132.205.225.124] on 2010/10/25 23:14:38
really want to see that!
Triangle
#3546 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.235.109] on 2010/10/26 01:24:44
is fucked up. It sort of made sense, but the part where there were hundreds of bodies and the lead character had only seen 2 or 3 rounds kinda broke it for me. Having said that it was very deep for a movie. And quite disturbing. Reminded me of the feeling you get when you wake up from a real nasty nightmare where you loose all you love.
Triangle
#3547 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/10/26 02:23:49
saw that a few weeks ago. Good film.
But I didnt really see it as a time travel movie even though it was presented that way.
**SPOIERS**
I thought it was more of a purgatory at sea movie. Aeolus (name of the ship) had a similar punishment when he tried to cheat death (infinitely pushing a boulder up a hill). One of the characters also has a line about the name of the ship which is a hint. And Charon shows up at the end too :)
Ricky, my take was that the movie starts in the middle of a loop. The number of bodies indicates that there has been many many loops previosuly(probably since she first crashed the car and killed herself and her son).
**END SPOILERS**
Will look into Timecrimes, sounds good.
Re Triangle (warning Spoilers)
#3548 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/26 04:54:56
wow nitin that is a good point, the amount of bodies at that point doesn't really make sense, yet at the time (and still now) I think that single frame of all the bodies - "she always goes here to die, she never realizes it until she sees herself dead" - even the differing levels of decay and flesh tones in the bodies - that was one of the most effective frames in horror I've seen in the last few years, counting other more explicitly horror type movies like the descent, altered, antichrist, etc.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
#3549 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/10/26 05:36:37
Maybe it's partly because I've never had this type of situation happen to me, but I just didn't find this movie funny at all really, and it just seemed to drag on and on. Pretty FORGETTABLE (FUCKING LOL) if you ask me.
Yep
#3550 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/10/26 06:36:56
great scene it was. The movie as a whole is a lot more satsifying than most horror thrillers. The vibe was very neatly pulled off.
FSM
#3551 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/10/26 06:38:06
I found it moderately funny, which is more than I can say for most Hollywood 'comedies'. I thought it was about Hangover funny.
Nitin
#3552 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.118.108] on 2010/10/26 06:58:01
I think you're mixing up Aeolus and Sisyphos. Aeolus is the god of the winds in greek mythology, if I'm not confused.
Sleepy
#3553 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/10/26 07:12:52
my greek mythology is rusty so using the help of wiki, I was indeed mixing them up.
Sisyphus was the son of (the first) Aeolus.
To Be A Giant Nerd
#3554 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/26 08:11:06
I thought it was Sisyphus who fit that scenario, but I don't know Greek myth really so I wouldn't know. That said, this entire idea (if Triangle indeed uses it) of infinitely trying to perform the same task - was used by Phillip K Dick in "A Little Something For Us Tempunauts," the story which was selected as last, final, in a 600+ page anthology of the best horror stories ever called THE DARK DESCENT. Now I found lots to disagree with in the selection, classification and etc criteria, but having this type of idea - manifested in that exact shot from triangle - the idea that the laws of physics can fuck you in a way you can't even understand - that, is horrifying.
#3555 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2010/10/26 08:43:59
now i'm curious... but there's like 50 movies names Triangle on imdb... can you guys tell me which one you're talking about?
Heh
#3556 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/26 08:50:31
I mean the semi-recent one, specifically this one: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trian...
The One
#3557 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.118.108] on 2010/10/26 09:32:36
with melissa george!
Tronyn
#3558 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/26 12:04:10
yeah see my post, Sisyphus was the boulder pusher :)
But he was the son of Aeolus (so the link is still there).
Back To The FAILture
#3559 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2010/10/28 22:46:14
http://tv.gawker.com/5675779/movie...
BTW
#3560 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2010/10/28 22:48:39
Is anyone here on Criticker?
Walking Dead
#3561 posted by negke [88.70.77.138] on 2010/10/29 23:46:34
TV series. First episode is a bit like 28 Days Later with a slight L4D vibe. The guy even met the horde at the end. Will watch more, perhaps it's like that British zombie mini series - gory fun, more serious though. The lawn zombie looked cool.
First Of All
#3562 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/30 09:23:42
THE WIRE - jesus, I had previously had DEADWOOD and CARNIVALE as favourites - amazing as they are - yet the tragedy of the wire is so much more potent since it is the tragedy happening right the fuck now due to, basically, American ignorance. Jesus. Second of all started watching BREAKING BAD and found it hilarious. Some parts sad, some parts interesting, but mostly a funny take on the ridiculous situation.
In The Words Of Omar
#3563 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/30 09:32:55
In-deeed.
Omar
#3564 posted by SleepwalkR [92.231.106.160] on 2010/10/30 10:18:04
is one of the best TV characters of all time.
Haha
#3565 posted by DaZ [78.147.155.64] on 2010/10/30 15:39:53
Agreed!
He is fantastic, as are 90% of the characters in that series.
Go watch Treme and Generation Kill also, both are made by the same crew that did The Wire. I know nonentity keeps mentioning it but he has good reason :)
Treme
#3566 posted by SleepwalkR [92.231.106.160] on 2010/10/30 18:39:48
Tried to get into it, but it didn't work for me. Enjoyed Gen. Kill immensily though.
Hmm
#3567 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/10/30 20:00:02
It was 'cos gen kill wasn't about black people right? Damn racist!
Who
#3568 posted by SleepwalkR [80.187.111.114] on 2010/10/30 20:32:23
Me?
Hehe
#3569 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/31 02:48:25
good call :)
Good Recent Horror Movies (say Last 5-10 Years)
#3570 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/31 07:06:50
off the top of my head I'd say Antichrist (possibly the best horror movie since The Shining), Let The Right One In (swedish vampire thing, subtitles), Altered (best take on the "gray aliens" ever filmed), The Descent (for some reason the heroine's memory of her son's birthday party is the creepiest shit), I thought the original Hostel was decent if you read into it the "shock therapy" capitalism of post-Soviet eastern Europe, I'm sure I'm forgetting many, but actually good (disturbing in an artisticaly defensible way) horror movies (as opposed to "torture porn sequel 15") are hard to find.
looking for reccomendations, if anyone has any.
Oh Yeah
#3571 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/31 07:13:25
The Ring that was pretty good, the tv scene was so fucked up, the idea of shit that just does not make sense, is awesome.
Horror
#3572 posted by SleepwalkR [92.231.110.72] on 2010/10/31 07:15:59
I also found "The Exorcism of Emily Rose" and "The Fourth Kind" very creepy.
K
#3573 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/31 07:22:12
I'll totally check those out
been reading this also, seen most of them
http://blog.moviefone.com/2007/10/...
But
#3574 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/31 07:24:06
if they're going to include recent-ish films on that list (and stuff with fucked up gender implications like Let the Right One in) where the fuck is Antichrist? too controversial? This is horror! Honestly that is one of the most beautifully fucked up films of all time.
Tronyn
#3575 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/31 09:47:29
Horror films that I've liked to varying degrees from the last 5-10 yrs :
High Tension
A Tale of Two Sisters
Martyrs (first half, not convinced on second yet)
[REC]
Session 9
Wolf Creek
Films with horror elements that I've liked to varying degrees from the last 5-10 yrs:
The Devil's Backbone
Pan's Labyrinth
Thirst
The Chaser
Perfume - Story of a Murderer
Havent seen Antichrist yet. But otherwise you've already got the main ones (dont agree with Hostel though). Triangle was missing though :)
Thanks
#3576 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/10/31 09:55:52
you're basically the resident film buff here so that many reccomendations is awesome.
I don't know whether I'd call triangle (or timecrimes for that matter) horror... other than that one AMAZING frame (and the idea) I'm not sure I'd call it horror.
Pan's Labryinth was awesome, though I'm not sure I'd call it horror either, except the feast scene. Perfume is awesome - the book is awesome, and the movie is a decent version of it - it's a very psychopathic view of life (pain and pleasure are all push-buttons for survival - a disturbing and ultimately true view of existence)
Session 9 is fucking sweet. I remember one critic calling it "a cross between The Shining and The Blair Witch Project."
So everything you listed I either love, or haven't seen. Now I have a list of things to see, thanks. Especially appropriate on Halloween when the evil spirits of aborted fetuses return to fuck with the living and so forth (or etc).
Tronyn
#3577 posted by nitin [124.168.115.156] on 2010/10/31 10:14:28
yeah that's why Pan is in the 'films with horror elements section'. Triangle would go there too :)
Just some comments on some of the others :
High Tension - pretty much the ultimate slasher flick till you hit the ending.
Martyrs - very strong first half, the second half has had very mixed reactions from people I know. I personally dont like it, others think it made the movie.
[REC] - nifty take on the zombie movie. And it reminded me I forgot to throw 28 weeks later on the list.
Wolf Creek - very effective slasher flick.
Devil's Backbone - similar to Pan's, imagery is not so fantastical though, but equally surreal.
Thirst - more of a black comedy, but interesting take on the vampire film.
The Chaser - one of the best thrillers in years.
Yarr
#3578 posted by DaZ [78.147.111.176] on 2010/10/31 10:19:34
Paranormal Activity also creeped me the hell out, its great if you like the "handheld camera" movies. Even if you don't, I'm pretty sure you will like this!
#3579 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/10/31 20:31:11
looking around on that site you linked tronyn, seems someone is remaking hellraiser?
Remakes
#3580 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.97.102] on 2010/10/31 20:40:44
Thought I'd share something: http://i50.tinypic.com/2lm3290.jpg
Short Circuit!
#3581 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/10/31 21:47:08
no way!
#3582 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.199] on 2010/10/31 22:40:39
Machete
Was super great fun! Some bits were just too silly, other a bit too gory but I thoroughly enjoyed it like few other movies recently. Everything fits. Nice soundtrack.
Pervaddendum: was that really Jessica alba nude? seemed like a not-very-double to me.
Rashomon Remake
#3583 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/11/01 00:21:01
that doesnt really make sense at all. At least I hope it is japanese.
and Angel Heart remake? The movie is only about 20 years old FFS.
Seriously
#3584 posted by Drew [65.92.160.123] on 2010/11/01 00:24:47
85% of those are going to suck.
The Thing should never be remade - it's pretty much perfect for what it is.
Angel Heart... I'm sure that'll be messed up somehow - I bet they make Rourke the devil this time...
Also Footloose - if they don't get a kenny loggins soundtrack, that movie is gonna blow.
The Thing
#3585 posted by DaZ [78.147.111.176] on 2010/11/01 00:29:16
Oh fuck, no :(
Spirit
#3586 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/01 00:29:45
No she wasn't really naked, it was CG. She was actually wearing underwear, but they just did a cg pass over her. They gave her a cg tummy tuck too. =/ I know when I found out I felt betrayed.
The Thing...
#3587 posted by generic [67.233.197.34] on 2010/11/01 00:42:07
is already a remake:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_T...
I once read that Anthony Perkins ("Psycho") played the part of the monster, but Wikipedia doesn't mention it.
#3588 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/11/01 01:31:50
The movie is only about 20 years old FFS.
There's a Nikita series remake on right now, when the original series only ended in 2001.
Also, it's terrible.
#3589 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2010/11/01 01:42:26
There's a Nikita series remake on right now, when the original series only ended in 2001.
But the original movie is from 1990...
True
#3590 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/11/01 01:46:52
they're rebooting spiderman too which is even more recent.
The Thing btw is meant to be a prequel I think, not a 3rd remake.
Hell....
#3591 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2010/11/01 03:24:05
they rebooted "The Hulk" only 5 years after the previous one... that's gotta be a record.
Yeah
#3592 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/11/01 04:17:46
but that deserved a reboot :)
As Does Brokeback Mtn
#3593 posted by Drew [65.92.160.123] on 2010/11/01 05:16:11
obviously.
As For Needy Reboots...
#3594 posted by mwh [118.93.54.155] on 2010/11/01 07:21:56
Are they going to try to do the northern lights/the golden compass again? Because the 2007 one wasn't very good. Maybe they'll get to do the other books next time..
A Symptom Of Hollywood's Ever-accelerating Demise
#3595 posted by negke [88.70.57.48] on 2010/11/01 10:11:32
I'll watch them online and won't even be needing to feel bad about it. Arrrr!
#3596 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/11/01 20:56:34
they should reboot batman before the third rebooted film comes out.
Recent Horror
#3597 posted by ericw [206.75.128.68] on 2010/11/02 04:32:16
enjoyed the suggestions, I'll have to check out a bunch of those. The Descent was fantastic.
re: Antichrist, the slow-motion intro seemed really arrogant and turned me off, and I didn't watch any further. I guess I should give it another chance though :-)
If you liked Let The Right Ones In, check out Ginger Snaps (not really horror, but has horror elements.)
Antichrist
#3598 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/11/02 05:16:58
yeah I actually didn't watch it longer than that the first time either, and I know a friend who didn't watch it because of that, heh. It gets a _lot_ better.
Ginger Snaps Was Actually OK
#3599 posted by RickyT23 [217.35.249.230] on 2010/11/02 10:25:56
Especially the first one. I remember watching the third one and thinking IT was actually OK - set a couple of hundred years ago. Bit like Ravenous. Love the music of that film!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeO...
Missing Recent Horror Films
#3600 posted by ijed [216.241.20.2] on 2010/11/02 13:32:46
Mirrors 2008
The Ruins 2008
They were both very good.
Although
#3601 posted by ijed [216.241.20.2] on 2010/11/02 13:35:45
Metacritic tells me they both got panned in the reviews.
The House Of The Devil 2009
#3602 posted by RickyT23 [86.23.6.59] on 2010/11/02 14:05:31
Good film, soooooooo classic 80s horror.
Great Bunch Of Responses Now I Have A Ton Of Stuff To Check Out
#3603 posted by Tronyn [205.200.244.29] on 2010/11/02 14:41:09
oh Ravenous, still one of my favourite movies ever, the soundtrack of course makes it even better. Such a cool take on the "people getting picked off one by one in some isolated outpost" horror style, with such awesome black humour, "Isn't this civilized?"
The Thing
#3604 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.215] on 2010/11/02 18:19:21
I think that's actually a prequel to the 1982 film, not a remake. So it gets a pass, I guess?
Should Also Plu
#3605 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/11/03 01:47:20
Dgo Soldiers, Neil Marshal's precursor to The Descent. Obviously not in the same class, but pretty decent low budget werewolf film with a good sense of wickedness and humour.
Hehe
#3606 posted by DaZ [78.147.153.152] on 2010/11/04 01:54:20
Yeah, dog soldiers is awesome =)
The History Of Superglue...
#3607 posted by ijed [190.22.8.75] on 2010/11/04 01:59:01
The Crazies (2010)
#3608 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/04 03:21:29
Good bit o fun. If you like that kind of suspenseful, pseudo-zombie film in the same vein as the Dawn of the Dead remake then you would probably like it. If you're like Asaki and won't just enjoy a fun movie just because it's a remake then you're a poop.
Lol
#3609 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.77.199] on 2010/11/04 03:52:27
I saw that, was OK, quite tense.....
Anyone else like Cloverfield? That sprung to mind. I think that made me poop.....
Cloverfield
#3610 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/11/04 07:30:40
was enjoyable, but you have to put aside the fact that all its major scenes directly rip off a better movie from before.
But its definitely enjoyable enough.
Crazies remake is in my evergrowing pile of stuff to watch (currently at 137).
#3611 posted by Spirit [80.171.1.218] on 2010/11/05 16:54:14
If I think Micheal Cera should be stuffed into a pig's arse and then fined in a grinder for being ugly, annoying and pretentious, is there any chance I would like Scott Pilgrim?
#3612 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2010/11/05 16:57:10
Well it's not just Michael Cera that sells the movie. It's sort of the culture aspect too. I found the film to be alright, not as amazing as my friends thought, and not that director guy's best work. I prefer Shaun or Hot Fuzz to this film any day. But it alright. Defo some entertaining bits and interesting characters.
Few Mainstreamers I've Vegetated In Front Of Recently
#3613 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/05 17:32:26
the a-team - gloriously silly OTT action with a bit of comedy. very enjoyable!
iron man 2 - also very silly but not in such a good way. i actually thought the first one was excellent as far as superhero movies go but this was just all flash & no substance, too many cheesy/cliched/stupid bits, mostly poor acting. downey's main character isn't even likeable. give it a miss
robin hood - felt more like the start of a series (like the first lotr) than an epic in its own right (despite being 2.5 hours long somehow). was interested in the take on history more than anything living in nottingham myself. decent fight scenes, mostly decent acting, average character dev, functional plot. nothing special in all but ok.
then for a laugh i decided to download prince of thieves and watch that to compare it with the above.. hadn't seen it in 10-15 years or so. it's so corny in just about every way it's unreal, haha. alan rickman is awesome though, only good thing about it
#3614 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/11/05 17:47:17
heh, best robin hood to me is men in tights. :P
Haha
#3615 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/05 17:57:09
forgot that one. about the same amount of time since i saw that as well.. i remember one line: "now i'm really pissed off!" "pissed off? i'd be worrying about being pissed ON!" XD ..may search for it if in need of light relief sometime :)
Cloverfield.
#3616 posted by Shambler [92.236.255.78] on 2010/11/05 18:52:50
Thanks for mentioning this. For some reason I missed / ignored this when it was in the cinema, not sure why but maybe it was vaguely something to do with people saying you don't see much monster action in it?? Or were people saying it was overhyped??
Anyway watched it on the box the other night and it was pretty damn cool. Well done, good monster action, and not a silly Hollywood ending - although some bits were a bit naff (like the monster focusing just on them). I thought it could have been longer and gone into a bit more detail about the monster and about their journey through the city.
The Only Thing...
#3617 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/05 19:58:40
..that spoiled that film for me was when you actually see the monster close up near the end. spoilt the mystery a little bit. otherwise excellent
nitin: what movie did it rip off? (or was it simply a remake?) it reminded me a bit of blair witch project but changed the setting suitably enough to warrant following a similar premise
Robin Hood New One
#3618 posted by Tronyn [205.200.220.30] on 2010/11/05 20:13:02
bahh...... worth watching once for free (lol...). Interesting engagement with the magna carta I guess. Ridley Scott needs to stop trying to make epics, especially with Russell Crowe. They're making fools of themselves, on the verge of becoming the next Burton/Depp.
Danny Huston as Richard was awesome, he's always awesome. "None shall pass" (lol monty python) was also awesome. Nice costumes, set designs, servicable plot, but overall a colossal waste of money.
Rj
#3619 posted by nitin [124.148.173.51] on 2010/11/06 00:09:01
it didnt rip off a movie per se (although Godzilla is the concept obviously), but some of its best set pieces were ripped off from other films IMHO. For example, the bit in the underground subway without lights while monsters come from the roof is straight from Aliens.
Tronyn
#3620 posted by nitin [124.148.173.51] on 2010/11/06 00:10:04
Gladiator was good :)
As was Kingdom of Heaven dir's cut (turns a shit movie into a great one). But havent seen Robin Hood.
Donnie Darko
#3621 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/06 03:44:22
I don't get it.
#3622 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/06 04:12:05
http://www.themoviegoer.com/donnie...
one of many sites i'd imagine
Cropsey
#3623 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/06 06:35:09
Documentary on a Staten Island urban legend which had some truth behind it - a supposed serial killer who abducted and murdered mentally handicapped girls in the 70s and 80s who lived in the . Pretty fucking creepy and definitely haunting. 4/5 to 4.5/5.
Cropsey
#3624 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/06 06:35:10
Documentary on a Staten Island urban legend which had some truth behind it - a supposed serial killer who abducted and murdered mentally handicapped girls in the 70s and 80s who lived in the . Pretty fucking creepy and definitely haunting. 4/5 to 4.5/5.
Sorry For Dbl Post
#3625 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/06 06:35:18
Dammit Zwiffle
#3626 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/06 23:33:55
i couldn't get donnie darko out of my head last after searching for that link to post for you. i found myself looking up a bunch of other theories & explanations, which led on to reading shedloads of user reviews & getting lost amongst the official website until the early hours.. then i couldn't sleep for being plagued by thoughts of jet engines, wormholes & rabbit masks. so watched it again between about 4-6am. it was still awesome and i still can't get my head around all of it.. one of my favourite films ever.
just watched scott pilgrim too. for the first 10 mins i actually thought i was going to hate it; it didn't seem that funny, some of the acting was really false and the numerous little visual effects grated on me. but as it went on i started recognising those things more as quirks that came together to form a consistently bizarre & warped overall vibe, and by the later stages i was actually enjoying it. what it lacks in decent story & humour it makes up for with sheer weirdness & some pretty neat visuals
#3627 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/07 00:10:31
Regarding Darko, I read the link about the time loop and everything, and then I sort of made a connection to The Lady in the Water (the Shyamalan movie)- which, unless I totally got it wrong, was about a made up myth that was actually real. The myth was totally weird and complete crap imo, and after watching it seemed like all the little quirks that made you go 'whoa that's weird how it totally fit!' were actually just made to fit a horrible plot so you would go 'whoa that's weird how it totally fit.' In other words, it was good at making it seem like it was a smart movie when really it wasn't.
I guess what I'm saying is that I don't buy into the Manipulated Dead or the weird soul worm things in Donnie Darko - it seems like they were put there to make the movie seem mind bending when really it doesn't have legs to stand on. Time paradox movies are great and everything, but when you have to invent fantasy elements like that to get them to work then I think the whole thing is cheapened.
SPOILERS
If you compare to Fight Club all the elements relate back to the split personality and dementia/whatever, which makes a lot of sense in the whole. What Donnie Darko did, though, was come up with a ton of totally weird things to try to explain how the paradox could actually exist, which really just ended up relying on super natural poop (again, the manipulated dead talking to Darko in order to get him to do what he needed.) Had the movie not resorted to that, I think I would have enjoyed it much better.
Actually, the first time through I enjoyed it thoroughly, but my explanation was that it was just Donnie's death vision before he died or something along those lines (ie, none of it really happened.)
Donnie Darko
#3628 posted by nitin [124.148.173.51] on 2010/11/07 02:51:00
works best if you ignore the more "explanatory" director's cut IMHO.
On first viewing I took it as a twisted biblical take with Darko as the Jesus figure (cant remember all the details but he performs a miracle, wears a shroud, saves the world by sacrificing himself, exposes evil etc).
Once you get into the time travel stuff, which is apparently the "correct" interpretation according to Kelly, it gets messy and IMHO also loses mystery.
#3629 posted by megaman [94.221.106.138] on 2010/11/07 10:32:12
The other guys
Quite funny and strange, I really liked it.
Scott Pilgrim
Very nice style to it (with some annoying bits), but ultimately fails because its storyline is so boring. I really liked it, but we still switched off about half way through the ex lovers just because we were all bored.
The man from Laramie
Missed the first half hour but it still seemed like an excellent movie.
Wall Street
Granted, I did some programming while watching this, but never got into the story because it just wasn't interesting, and it seemed quite predictable. The others started skipping sections after the first half of the movie.
Man From Laramie Is Very Good
#3630 posted by nitin [124.148.173.51] on 2010/11/07 11:00:28
not the best of the Mann/Stewart partnership but a fine film.
#3631 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.194] on 2010/11/07 11:51:05
watched Green Zone the other day and surprisingly enjoyed it a lot.
it's a rather grim thriller about a gi (great Matt Damon) never finding any wmds in the Iraq. that's all I knew and it was good that way. it has a lot of shakovision HD but ultimately I have to admit that it fit. quite thoughtprovoking for us. found out that my best friend did not know how hussein was murdered and damn, does that fit the movie well. as usual some stupid bits. ending is soso but feel good for me. I gave it 7/10. recommend it!
I Thought It Was Ok
#3632 posted by nitin [124.148.173.51] on 2010/11/07 11:55:12
shakey cam + night scenes annoyed me a lot.
Triangle.
#3633 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.3] on 2010/11/07 14:30:21
Again inspired by you homos I got this out the other night, it was cool indeed. Went from a bit scary to a bit freaky to a bit thought-provoking. Interesting and intriguing.
One thing I don't quite get though....
***SPOILERS***
***SERIOUSLY DON'T READ THIS IF YOU HAVEN'T SEE IT***
Let's call the main character Jess1. Jess1 arrives on the ship and they are all hunted by Jess0. Jess1 "kills" Jess0 by pushing her over with the axe. Next Jess2 and party arrive. Jess1 resists the urge to wipe them out and tries to kill Jess2 to break the loop. Jess2 reacts to this, goes psycho and slaughters them in different ways to normal. Now....when Jess1 is trying to talk to / save Sally2, she looks over and sees Jess2 being properly axe-murdered by JessX.
Who is that JessX, where did she come from, and where did she go?
***END OF SPOILER***
Also...
#3634 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.3] on 2010/11/07 17:50:41
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rt... anyone looking forward to this lol.
#3635 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/07 18:08:00
Yeah Skyline looks alright.
Shambler
#3636 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2010/11/07 18:10:16
Looks like a mix in between "War of worlds" and "Independance Day"... but the special effects are amazing.. I'd be happy to watch this shit in 3D tbh :P
#3637 posted by Spirit [80.171.1.235] on 2010/11/07 21:13:05
Oh god, why did I even try Hot Tub Time Machine? Looking at the photos of the cast I was expecting exactly that style, but was hoping I would be wrong. Well, I wasn't. Stupid, pretentious, "fucking fuck ass dope shit fuck we are using grown-up words fuck". God, I hate these kind of movies. Fast-forwarded from 30 minutes onwards because it did not stop sucking.
I also watched Couples Retreat. Kinda fun, super hot swedish Malin Akerman, some good laughs, some awful acting and bad characterisation (ending is absolutely not believable), kinda racist (?! "haha, that funny fat black guy, he is fat and brought a girl that talk lik dat yo, haha"...). Still enjoyable.
Shambler
#3638 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/11/08 02:03:32
see my spolier post above. Does that help?
Skyline
#3639 posted by DaZ [78.147.167.169] on 2010/11/08 02:14:09
1st comment in the youtube page sums it up pretty well "were's Will&#65279; smith and Jeff Goldblum !!!"
Looks like fun though. Those alien ships remind me of the giant machine ships from the matrix.
Nitin.
#3640 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.3] on 2010/11/08 09:00:03
Nope it doesn't, because....
*** SPOILER ***
A loop should only contain 2 Jess's, but at that particular point it contains 3, and no indication where JessX comes from...
*** SPOILER ***
The purgatory theory is a good one though, and probably correct. Although what is she in purgatory for??
Spoilers
#3641 posted by [124.148.157.201] on 2010/11/08 09:33:17
shambler,
my post should cover why she is in purgatory. And I thought there were always 3 jess's in a loop. We start in the middle of one where another is watching her already (in the same way she does later).
SPOILERS!!!!!!!!!!!
#3642 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.3] on 2010/11/08 19:50:19
Oh yes I see that. Presupposing it's an infinite loop of course.
I'm pretty sure there are only 2 Jesses in a loop - the one on the ship who wiped out the previous jess, and the incoming one from the yacht. The latter kills the former and then another incoming one appears...
SPOIIIIILERSSSSSSSSSSS
#3643 posted by bear [217.115.56.186] on 2010/11/09 02:36:32
Skyline looks like a really horrible movie.
Gonna see Sentimental Engine Slayer in a couple of weeks though just because I'm a Omar fanboi...
The Book Of Eli & Spoilers
#3644 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/09 02:59:10
I liked it, and though I can't say I really agree with the religious overtones, I did like the Mussolini vs "Island of Knowledge" themes going on. There were only like 3 real action scenes and they were over pretty quickly, but they established Denzel's character as a bad ass, and I have to say I thought it was awesome how he ended up being blind and it just made sense.
Pope informs me that The Road is better for the apocalyptic feel, but I heard pretty depressing things about it. :( Anyhoo, Book of Eli is worth a look imo.
Shambler
#3645 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/11/09 03:49:04
I really dont remember it clearly enough to answer your question properly but I do remember thinking that there were 3 Jess' when I watched it.
zwiffle, The Road is very cool, but it's not entertaining. Nor is the book.
The Road.
#3646 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.3] on 2010/11/09 10:48:55
Is very good.
The book is very bleak.
The film is quite sad.
#3647 posted by Spirit [80.171.144.46] on 2010/11/13 11:13:06
The Sorcerer's Apprentice
Disney fantasy action. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Some very cool scenes, some good laughs, decent story, good actors.
I Mean The 2010 One Of Course.
#3648 posted by Spirit [80.171.144.46] on 2010/11/13 11:13:19
Nick Cage???
#3649 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/13 15:20:27
FFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUU
Says Someone Who Likes Michael Cera.
#3650 posted by Spirit [80.171.144.46] on 2010/11/13 15:35:58
I really don't get the Cage hate. His performance in this movie is spot-on.
Prince Of Persia
#3651 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/13 15:41:55
Not bad, decent action scenes and seemingly tons of them. The acting was good enough the, the chick was hot, the video game adaptation was alright too. There was some mention of some awesome demon at one point in the movie, but SPOILER it wasn't there. /SPOILER
Also, Nick Cage was pretty good in Kick Ass, but otherwise I am not a fan.
Well
#3652 posted by Tronyn [205.200.220.30] on 2010/11/14 02:08:41
I personally detest Nicholas Cage and don't get why he's this big actor, but he was good in Lord of War (probably because his real personality IS a rich white asshole) and Leaving Las Vegas (he had to put some effort into that).
Deja Vu
#3653 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.60.224] on 2010/11/14 07:07:38
The Nic Cage discussion seems to repeat itself every couple of weeks. You forgot to mention The Weather Man though.
So
#3654 posted by DaZ [78.147.175.33] on 2010/11/14 08:55:17
What your saying is that he is bad, except when he is good? =)
I personally have no problems with him, he just generally doesn't make the kind of films I want to see. Although Con Air and The Rock were fun.
Two Films.
#3655 posted by Shambler [86.25.220.94] on 2010/11/16 21:38:49
1. Orphanage. Very good. Eerie, scary, intruiging, and ultimately wistful. Interesting how it all pans out in the end. A quality chiller.
2. Black Death. Poor. Good premise but fails to live up to it. Haphazard, disjointed, and unfulfilling.
Orphanage
#3656 posted by Drew [65.92.134.235] on 2010/11/17 04:04:30
Really liked it the first time around, but I didn't like it when I watched the second time, as I tend to with movies like that.
I watched dog soldiers yesterday - I'm rarely bothered by characters in horror movies making the stupid decisions that they almost inherently make.
But when it's a bunch of well trained soldiers, it kind of makes me react like some others would to a typical slasher.
Still - pretty fun movie, enjoyed the goofiness in some parts...
Not in nearly t he same leage as The Descent though.
Ps
#3657 posted by Drew [65.92.134.235] on 2010/11/17 04:37:15
is # 2 a movie or your GF's nickname for your penis?
Lol
#3658 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/17 05:31:46
I thought Dog Soldiers was RIDICULOUS, couldn't believe it was the same guy as The Descent which was really good.
Hmm
#3659 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/11/17 06:05:06
So basically it's an art-nouveau-retro matrix with more pretension, worse gunfights and an obvious ending.
It did have good set design tho.
The Descent
#3660 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.62.176] on 2010/11/17 07:02:33
I can't understand why everyone raves about it. What does it bring to the table that wasn't already done by Alien / Aliens? I thought it was really boring, the creatures were dull and the characters... well, there's certainly no Ripley among them.
Anyone Seen The Human Centipede?
#3661 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.70.224] on 2010/11/18 00:28:37
ROFFLMFAO
But seriously though
Rolling on the fucking floor laughing my fucking ass off!!!!
Inception:
Genius. Pure genius. Best Dicaprio film since The Departed. Really enjoyed it. 2.5 hrs felt like 2 hrs.
Hmm
#3662 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/11/18 00:31:43
Genius. Pure genius.
No. Not in any way.
(In case it wasn't abundantly clear, my previous post was about Inception).
Heh
#3663 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/18 00:32:20
i saw the trailer for that. i wanted to laugh but was a little bit too disturbed by it...
#3664 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/18 00:32:54
(in case it wasn't abundantly clear, my previous post was about the human centipede)
Hmm
#3665 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/11/18 00:33:58
Yeh, Human Centipede looks fscking ridiculous. It's on my list of things to watch in a well lit room, in company, without having eaten recently.
Not that I think it'll be that disturbing, but if my mind explored the concept while sat alone at night I might throw up.
Watching Centipede Soon
#3666 posted by Drew [65.92.134.235] on 2010/11/18 04:19:13
can't wait.
I was going to go see it in the theatre, but nobody would go with me, and I wasn't sure I could handle it in that setting. Probably over-hyped.
Inception is totally matrix.
and totally good, and totally overhyped, but nothing to complain too much about.
Dicaprio is very good at playing men with important jobs crumbling under pressure.
also - Tokyo Gore Police - letdown. Aiming for Troma but not making it. Some nice set pieces etc but overall fairly disappointing.
I Didn't Think It Was Like The Matrix
#3667 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.70.224] on 2010/11/18 04:25:55
It was more like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. It's a movie that keeps you guessing all of the way through. And it was very philosophical, you could read into it undertones of self improvement and at the same time oblivion and insanity.
#3668 posted by Drew [65.92.134.235] on 2010/11/18 04:36:12
it's more like the matrix than Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
imho.
The matrix isn't necessarily a bad comparsion.
But I hope that if they make a sequel there are no white dreadlock ghost twins.
Matrix Comparison
#3669 posted by nitin [203.217.71.253] on 2010/11/18 06:44:34
is good in terms of overall tone and appeal.
Eternal Sunshine is a heaps better movie although its more similar thematically.
#3670 posted by mwh [118.93.54.155] on 2010/11/18 11:09:12
The thing that it's easy to forget about the matrix is that it was pretty good. I heard a rumour they were planning to make some sequels, dunno what happened there...
First Matrix
#3671 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2010/11/18 12:52:21
was really good I think. It had interesting themes, a very coherent visual concept, great effects. Everything worked together well. I think that the sequels are the reason that the first film is not as highly regarded by many people. The sequels were really really dreadful and did not live up to the first movie at all.
Agree
#3672 posted by DaZ [78.147.162.120] on 2010/11/18 13:08:33
Reloaded was a pile of ass, but has my favourite car chase scene ever in it.
Revolutions was better, and has my favourite 1on1 fight scene ever in it.
For me at least, those 2 scenes made the films worthwhile to see at the cinema, I dunno how the directors do it, but its like they have a direct line to my brain and what it thinks is awesome :P I reeeeeally like their style.
random trvia : Larry Wochowski is now known as mrs lana wochowski, yeah.
FAVE CAR CHASE SCENES
#3673 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2010/11/18 13:46:05
great topic. Mine is the car chase in The Corruptor, that one amazes me every time I see it, esp. the way it ends.
Bourne Supremacy
#3674 posted by RickyT23 [86.137.237.129] on 2010/11/18 14:19:06
That's got a hell of a car chase in it :)
Ugh That Horrible Matrix Conversation
#3675 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/18 14:30:43
1 - alright I guess
2 - best of the 3
3 - wtf this garbage
And that's the way it is.
#3676 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/11/18 20:46:33
car chases off the top of my head...
highway chase in matrix 2
tumbler chase in batman begins
those are the two that stick out the most for me. both have great music during too.
My 0.002
#3677 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/18 23:22:00
I actually didn't like the tumbler chase in batman begins although the tumbler itself was awesome: it was obviously way too heavy to go across rooftops, plus nolan hadn't really found his stride as an action director yet.
the reason I thought the first matrix was overrated, was the annoyingly condescending marketing, the style over substance (though the substance was alright), and the fact it overshadowed better, more cerebral films on similar themes from the same time (dark city, thirteenth floor, existenz). Nolan said he wrote Inception as a response to all of these themes and I could see stuff from all of them in there, including the matrix. Inception wasn't as awesome as I was expecting given how much I enjoyed most of his earlier movies, but it did do a lot of interesting things, dicaprio was good, his girlfriend's death due to a certain idea was really clever, and that hallway scene was some of the coolest shit ever. still, hopefully nolan works on some of his weaknesses for his next film, especially his lack of using women as real major characters. a different cinematography and music style would be welcome as well.
The Descent Huh
#3678 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/19 00:24:49
I thought that was pretty suspenseful. Good, dark, claustrophobic atmosphere. Certainly different. Good ending too.
I've been in a horror mood lately and have been watching shitloads. Seen all these in the last few weeks:
Bad Biology (2008) [RA the Rugged Man]
Clive Barkers Book Of Blood (2008)
Cujo (1983) [Stephen King]
Drag Me To Hell (2009)
Eaten Alive (1980)
Fright Night (1985)
Happy Birthday to Me (1981)
Killer Klowns from Outer Space (1988)
Last House on Dead End Street (1977)
Les Diaboliques (1955)
Phantasm (1979)
Rage aka Rabid (1977) [Cronenberg]
The Serpant and The Rainbow (1988) [Wes Craven]
The Stuff (1985)
Toolbox Murders (2004) [Tobe Hooper]
Nothing great there, all 6 and below.
I suppose Toolbox Murders, Phantasm, The Stuff, Book Of Blood and Fright Night would all be worth a single viewing if your really bored.
As for Les Diaboliques (1955) being #184 on imdb's top 250 list, and the third best horror of all time, that's a joke. It was a slow suspense thriller, completely predictable by todays standards.
Finally watched Bergman's Persona the other day too, not a bad film for a single viewing.
Non-horror
#3679 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/19 00:31:23
Here's a few more I've watched in the last month:
Hot Tub Time Machine (2010)
just another typical comedy, 5/10.
Iron Man 2 (2010)
wtf? Ironman 1 ate this crap for breakfast. I hope Avengers isn't this bad.
Prince Of Persia - Sands Of Time (2010)
Yawn. Was looking forward to this but in the end the whole premise was irratating.
Splice (2009)
Probably the best movie i've seen out of this batch, and all those horror ones above, though that's not saying much. Fuck the mongrel-alien sex scene was hot. Best movie sex scene of 2009, yes!
The Expendables (2010)
I know it got awful reviews, but it wasn't too bad for an action flick. 6/10.
The Strangers (2008)
A single murder scene stretched out over an entire film. Good suspense bits, but the plot was far too thin. And what's with not even seeing Gemma Wards face?!
Vampires Suck (2010)
I knew it'd suck. The writers behind it need to be kicked out of hollywood.
I'll Defend
#3680 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/11/19 01:34:00
Les Diaboliques, although I agree its not horror as such. But as far as suspense films go, it is very masterfully made IMHO. and you know actually has characters and stuff.
Best car chases? I'll be back :)
#3681 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/11/19 02:49:06
I actually didn't like the tumbler chase in batman begins although the tumbler itself was awesome: it was obviously way too heavy to go across rooftops, plus nolan hadn't really found his stride as an action director yet.
the weight of the thing vs roof tops didn't even bother me a bit. what did bother me was the ridiculous amounts of property damage along with law enforcement injury (and possibly death? a few cruisers flip right over and land upside down).
ok, sure, bruce will probably find some way to funnel money back to repair the damage he caused, and sure, some of those police officers may have been dirty, but there's no guarantee there.
otoh, this kind of property damage level seems to always occur in superhero films and no one seems to even notice. :P
#3682 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/19 03:31:24
Super heroes are the real villains.
Oh Man
#3683 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/19 04:37:24
just think of what Snyder is going to do with superman, in terms of property damage. lol. dudes chucking skyscrapers full of people at each other I'd imagine.
at least alfred told bruce he was being an asshole in Begins. but yeah that whole scene also shows the problem that even if batman won't kill, he definitely will create situations in which people, including cops and bystanders, will die.
That's Why
#3684 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2010/11/19 05:30:22
The Incredibles was great. And Watchmen.
ps : car chase list to come after work.
#3685 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/19 05:57:23
You guys really like talking about batman and matrix huh. Personally I thought Memento and Inception are in different leagues to the Batman movies. The best thing about The Dark Knight was the music. Although barely enough to save the terrible version of Batman that Nolan & Bale created. Could he be any more of a stiff? Still better than 99% of other comic-to-movies though.
The Matrix is to young males what Twilight is to young females. The last 10mins of the first one was good. I think V for Vendetta was more of a complete movie, that actually made logical sense and didn't feel like it was masturbating to it's own awesomeness.
As for Inception, I know some people don't seem to like it, but I thought it was brilliant. Doesn't make my top 10, due to some miscasting (apart from Leonardo who can do no wrong these days) and too many holes in the plot, but has to be one of the best movies of 2010.
Speaking of superhero movies, I'm looking forward to seeing what Aronofsky does with Wolverine 2. That'll be weird. Thank god he ditched the Robocop reboot.
The Good The Bad The Weid
#3686 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/19 06:53:05
Korean action-comedy-western. Pretty good/humorous, if you're into that Korean/Japanese manga style of humor and cool, but the action scenes were pretty awesome really. You could probably get the gist of what is going on without subtitles, but they make the talky parts a lot more interesting to sit through. Also a funny little social commentary based on what the 'treasure' is, unless I just totally read too much into it. I give it 4/5, but probably would give it higher if I paid attention through the whole thing and not just during the action scenes.
That Should Be
#3687 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/19 06:53:23
The Good The Bad The Weird
Its One 135 Min Long Action Scene
#3688 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/11/19 07:35:53
with no real narrative, but the action scenes are definitely amazingly shot and choregraphed. But you have to know what you're expecting.
Well
#3689 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/19 23:10:00
I've already attacked V for Vendetta multiple times on here, but it's just a melodramatic lefty-whiny version of the matrix which imo was overrated and overshadowed much better films. I have no idea how you can consider Inception better than The Dark Knight, TDK was amazing, despite the hype. "Terrible version of Batman?" what! beating up all the guys in the mob-owned club, throwing the mob boss off the roof, tracking the corrupt accountant to hong kong and pwning his ass? TDK Batman was awesome.
agree on Aronofsky: Robocop's a retarded property and I'm glad he's off it. If he does a Wolverine thing not at all connected to the original, that could be cool. He just wants a comic property since Nolan beat him to the Batman reboot. He should be patient, wait 10 years and do his own reboot. Then again Wolverine is probably 2nd to Batman in terms of the potential of the material to be both popular and somewhat dark, though the realistic edge just isn't there.
#3690 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.199] on 2010/11/20 00:22:07
Watching the super mega nerdgasm endless directors extended cut of Watchmen was a bloody idiotic idea.
Lol
#3691 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/20 00:28:28
I thought the original watchmen was too long, and I regret watching both it and 300; both had amazing-seeming trailers which suckered me into paying to see a movie with the occasional amazing action scene and an incomprehensible, ridiculous, over-manly story, full of hollywood cliches and a script set up only to serve action. The only reason I think the new superman will be good is that Nolan will be in control of the story, and Snyder will only do the action, which he is admittedly good at. That and I don't care about the superman property or what happens to it, it's not like Batman where I think they got it "right" or "horribly wrong."
Disagree About Robocop
#3692 posted by Drew [65.92.134.235] on 2010/11/20 00:55:56
lots of potential.
I really get a lot of enjoyment from the satirical aspects of what's his names works. I really think he is underrated as a satirist and film maker. not perfect, but pretty good.
Robocop
#3693 posted by nitin [203.217.71.253] on 2010/11/20 01:33:32
is good fun, as is Staarship Troopers.
Right, car chases. Only going to go back 15 yrs or so, theres a number of good ones before that but I dont think there'd be too much interest in those.
So from that period to now, Ronin set the standard IMHO with its 2 brilliantly shot car chases through narrow european streets. No reliance on fast editing to generate excitement, just a couple of killer car chases.
Since then, Matrix Reloaded definitely had a ripper, the only good scene in the movie too.
I'm also a big fan of the rainstorm car chase shot from the inside of the car in the otherwise only above average We Own the Night.
The TDK and BB car chases were ok but no shot that well. One thing Nolan hasnt quite mastered yet is action scenes, shot too clost to the action and generally chaotically.
The Bourne Supremacy had a decent chase at at the end, even though I'm not a huge fan of the choppy editing style used. But it was definitely exciting.
The best car chase since Ronin though has to be the one in the middle of The Town. Its absolutely spectacularly shot and great to watch on a big screen. The movie also ha the best shootouts since Heat.
Heh
#3694 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/20 01:35:58
good picks for car chases, I need to add PATHFINDER (lol yes not so great a movie - but it features the only MEDIEVAL CAR CHASE I can think of).
#3695 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/20 01:57:17
Re my disappointment in batman's character. It wasn't so much his action sequences and toughness, but more that he was just a really dull character. He had no life to him. I found him to be an unlikable ass, at least in TDK. Bruce Wayne should be charismatic and debonair. Hell, a bit more like James Bond (pre Daniel Craig) would have been fine!
I did still love TDK and BB, BB more so because it showed the beginnings of Batman.
One thing that annoyed me in TDK was, considering this reboot features normal villains, rather than super-villains, Two Face running around with half his face missing was a bit unrealistic for me.
Watchmen was I loved, but way too long and slow paced to watch again. An extended directors cut would be a nightmare.
While Batman has a bigger universe built around him, I think Wolverine is a more likable superhero than Batman. So if Aronosky can create a darker, much more realistic movie with The Wolverine, it'll be a winner. Obviously it's not as bigger movie franchise as Batman, but Nolan had to follow the abysmal Batman & Robin. At least Wolverine Origins was better than that.
#3696 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/20 01:59:13
Oh and by the way, watched Martyrs last night, a french horror. Best horror i've seen in years, since probably The Ring and A Tale Of Two Sisters
(j-versions not the US jokes).
Ringu
#3697 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/11/20 02:07:13
was hilarious. Had pretty good laughs most of the way through, and defo less scary than the US's "The Ring."
Well
#3698 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/20 02:27:55
TDK bruce was definitely less interesting than BB bruce, but TDK had to be an ensemble piece. nolan's movies are getting too big to be personal (ie inception) that may be a flaw... LOTR avoided this by making THE atmosphere /environment/meaning the major character. I don't think Bale was the problem though, at least not since he did what he could with his screentime, especially in seeming way less confident personally, while way more physically powerful as Batman, as if he were compensating for his own lack of faith with increasing violence. God would I love it if they ever took Batman into truly adult territory, and portrayed him as the tormented, delusional, vengeful violent obsessive that in my view he is. Anyway back to Bale: He just needed a better love interest, gyllenhal was the movie's weakness, as bad an actress as katie holmes is there was more chemistry in BB. As for Two-Face, I think they made him as realistic as possible: a crazed guy running out of the hospital with a gun under a lot of mental and physical pain for a killing spree, is an understandable "origin" for the two face legend... having him as a recurring villain (or having the joker as a recurring villain) is too unrealistic, so I think TDK handled that well.
Wolverine's more blue-collar and more likeable that way. You could have a beer with him. Batman is a rich psycho aristocrat, you could not have a beer with him. Anyway, Aronofsky rocks.
#3699 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2010/11/20 02:55:30
i kind of assumed harvey dent would have died from infection anyway... running around with his face burnt off like that.
Hmm
#3700 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/11/20 03:59:50
this kind of property damage level seems to always occur in superhero films and no one seems to even notice
Warren Ellis' Authority handles this very well. Good parody of the entire superhero genre (at least in volume 1, the later volumes are pretty weak).
Not as good as Transmetropolitan tho (little is).
#3701 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/20 07:13:14
Yep Batman in adult/horror territory would be awesome. Batman should be a dark, tormented character.
Yeah I totally forgot about Gyllenhal, she was awful as a love interest. WAAAAAAAY too average looking for a badass millionaire like Bruce Wayne. Katie Holmes wasn't right either. Scarlett Johansson would have been good, ala Prestige.
RE Bale, as much as I like his acting and many of the movies he's been in (Machinist, Prestige, Equillibrium, American Psycho are all brilliant), he has always been in more serious roles. I think this reflects his true personality, as he seems to be an arrogant cock in real life.
Ever Seen
#3702 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/20 13:57:23
Harsh Times? He plays an ex-army wigger type guy in that, and it's kind of awesome. He makes the movie really. Whether he's playing high class or low class, he is typecast in his most effective role: arrogant unreasonable asshole with rage issues. This is why he is suited for Batman, I just wish they portrayed him as even less reasonable in BB. He's lame in other roles, a one-trick-pony to use a gay cliche.
Yes
#3703 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.55.27] on 2010/11/20 14:22:26
Harsh Times is pretty cool, and Bale is very good in that.
Oh Man
#3704 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/20 14:52:51
It's almost 8am and I'm not exactly sober but just to imagine an alternate-reality project:
Batman: R
They either hire Bale to play a totally different and even darker version of Wayne/Batman or hire someone else (and yeah imo Bale was the best batman so far). Aronofsky directs. Rating is R, at least. Wayne has a harem as anyone in his status would. Yet he's alone. He has this weird compulsion to hurt people at night. Beating those outside the law, is the best way to satisfy this compulsion, since they won't go to the cops. There's a lot of blood. He abuses criminals the way pimps abuse prostitutes - to get his own desires fixed for a short time, without giving a shit. Maybe he even pays money to advocates against the legalization of drugs or prostitution - since the "scum" who peddle those goods and services are mostly minorities and it's easy for a rich guy like him to demonize them. He needs enemies, because in a perfect world he would still have mortal enemies in his head. And his parents' murder does not excuse that, explain that, or make any sense of that. He was born violent, angry, fucked up, the sum of unacceptable maleness, and being a character in a story he can't understand why and that just pisses him off more. Lol k that's my take on Batman.
So A Superhero Version Of Dexter Then
#3705 posted by nitin [203.217.71.253] on 2010/11/21 03:05:40
but with better writing :)
Car Chases.
#3706 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.44] on 2010/11/21 18:20:52
Wasn't the Blue's Brothers one awesome? Or did I mis-remember that??
Anyway, films:
Mulholand Drive - stylish, hot chicks, kinda intriguing in places but mostly boring. I couldn't really care what David Lynch was trying to say when he makes it this obtuse and full of irrelevant and confusing filler.
Mulholland Drive
#3707 posted by megaman [178.1.141.196] on 2010/11/21 20:47:48
I think lynch is beyond "trying to say something" and wants to inspire you with as much random shit as possible. Kinda like experimental art. I love it.
I Don't
#3708 posted by SleepwalkR [92.231.227.180] on 2010/11/21 21:34:01
Mulholland drive was ok and interesting, not just due to the lesbian love scenes... Inland Empire was plain unwatchable IMO.
I Must Confess.
#3709 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.44] on 2010/11/21 22:17:23
The lesbian love scene was pretty nice.
I Must Confess...
#3710 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/21 23:18:40
i've never actually seen a david lynch film.
i have a few queued up though, including mulholland drive, eraserhead and blue velvet. felt it was about time i got involved.
last night i saw equilibrium. i was a little bit disappointed as from the premise i thought it was going to be more clever than it actually was, when really the story just seemed like an excuse to show lots of matrixy action scenes. it was ok i guess. the scene where he looks behind the mirror to find his dosage is gone.. i actively said out loud 'the kid will show up behind him and say "looking for something?"'.. so yeah bit predictable in places
Mulholland Drive Was Awesome
#3711 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/11/22 00:48:22
and it made reaosnable sense to me, I mean its essentialy the same story as Lost Highway.
rj, start with Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive and finish with The Elephant Man.
Equilbrium is ridiculous fun but dumb.
Cheers For The Tip
#3712 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/22 01:46:58
lost highway is another one in the queue, didn't know it was by him.
just also finished terry gilliam's twelve monkeys. second time viewing after the first went completely over my head a few years ago. even now i've just spent the last half an hour reading up on explanation/FAQ sites to fill in the gaps but it all makes sense now. pretty fascinating film with great performances from the lead actors and loads of clever touches.. very rewarding
#3713 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/22 01:50:43
Mulholland Drive is, imo, one of the greatest movies of all time. Movies like Star Wars and Indiana Jones are just popcorn entertainment, compared to the artistic depth of MD.
I know it feels like theres lots of filler crap, but I think ALL of it meant something. Its just that it hasn't all been figured out, or isn't obvious. Lynch isn't the kind of person to put pointless shit in. Persona, on the other hand, which Mulholland Drv drew inspiration from, i'm more skeptical of. I wouldn't be surprised if there was no deeper meaning in that film at all, and Bergman just wrote a boring movie about nothing.
Eraserhead is pretty cool if you can hunt down the correct (supposedly) theory behind it.
Saw Jennifer Lynch's (his daughter) Boxing Helena a month ago. Supposed to be kind of lynchian. Fuck, that was a predictable borefest not worth bothering with.
#3714 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/11/22 01:53:06
terry gilliam is a really underated writer and director. 12 monkeys and tideland are my favourites of his, but all his movies are decent.
Ya
#3715 posted by Tronyn [205.200.245.174] on 2010/11/22 02:25:53
agree about Gilliam he is awesome. Lynch, not so much. It's good if you're looking for atmosphere, he can do some weird-ass shit really effectively, but his movies effectively have no plot (well his later stuff anyway, Blue Velvet had a plot but I never saw why it was so great). In Twin Peaks given the serialized format he kind of had to have a plot, and that I was his best work I think - his obsessions with beautiful women, bizarre scenarios, and the uncertainties of reality came across really well there - but it was still too plotless to not frustrate me, and it fell apart in the second season. I think I speak for many people when I say what's frustrating about Lynch is that he clearly has talent yet he chooses to be an ass. Ambiguous doesn't have to mean semi-incoherent.
Kona
#3716 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/11/22 02:27:42
whilst I agree on Mulholland Drive being a great film, I disagree on Lynch not putting stuff in that has no meaning. I think he puts in a lot of distracting stuff to create a mood (so in that sense it may not be filler), but not all of it means something.
Persona on the other hand does feel like a movie that is made by someone that intended to make a movie where everything meant something. Whether or not it actually does is another topic :) Also, I quite like Persona. but despite being a big Bergamn fan, Mulholland Drive is also more interesting to me.
Lynch
#3717 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/11/22 02:30:09
have people seen The Elephant Man and The Straight Story? Probably his two greatest films, and they are very un-Lynchian, at least on the surface.
Gilliam - I really like Brzil and Twelve Monkeys, hate everything else he's done. Fear and Loathing being a prime example.
Straight Story
#3718 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.59.167] on 2010/11/22 06:58:24
Totally forgot that that was by David Lynch, too. That's a great movie.
Hmm
#3719 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/11/24 21:46:26
Why has no-one mentioned Brazil? Truly brilliant film.
Nitin Did.
#3720 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/24 22:21:55
two posts above yours. admittedly he typoed but it was sandwiched right between gilliam and twelve monkeys so i can't imagine what else he was referring to :P
Hmm
#3721 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/11/25 06:01:48
I should stop speed reading :(
Altho in fairness, he may have been refering to Barzilla, the alcoholic city destroying monster.
#3722 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.97] on 2010/11/26 22:47:12
The only mention of Falling Down I see here is delightfully cynical and very accurate by Shambler, so let this post be a recommendation to watch it. I never expected it to be this moving. imdb is full of spoilers, don't read that. Just check if the poster seems promising to you and maybe prepare for a bit of sadness too.
#3723 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.97] on 2010/11/26 22:58:28
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eR... is a good incentive.
Seconding That
#3724 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.96.4] on 2010/11/26 23:26:46
It's quite touching. Also, cynical and very accurate.
Sorry for not making a more meaningful post but I just wanted to emphasize Spirit's recommendation. :(
I Actually Saw That 2 Weekends Ago
#3725 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/11/26 23:42:34
for the first time, funny that. meant to mention it. very enjoyable, pretty much for the reasons stated
Did I Mention It??
#3726 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.59] on 2010/11/27 22:32:28
It is a top class film.
Unlike Skyline, which is bollox. Mildly entertaining in places but surprisingly low-budget-looking for a blockbuster. The shot of them waiting in the flat and the coherence of the main dude's fate being the decent bits.
#3727 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.97] on 2010/11/27 22:48:16
I forgot to mention that I started watching Give 'em hell, Malone yesterday and only endured that awful smut for 15 minutes.
Mulh Drv
#3728 posted by bamby [82.181.134.149] on 2010/11/30 01:54:09
definitely has a plot and almost all the shit that seems random ties into it. The explanations are just scattered around in time.
I didn't get it until someone explained it to me immediately after the theater. Everything clicked into place perfectly!
That later overlong disjointed movie, inland empire, went over my head even worse than mulholland drive. I haven't heard anyone cracking it yet, and the way it was made, I wonder if he was just winging it...
Mlhlnddrv
#3729 posted by Drew [174.89.241.140] on 2010/11/30 04:52:08
I like it, and feel like there is a stronger sense of cohesion than it's typically given credit for. Generally though I think it is a sort of thematic cohesion though, instead of being cohesive re narrative. I think, in fact, that if you look at a number of Lynch movies there is a thematic idea of disjuncitons of personalities, and the shattering of social illusions. Blue Velvet for example tinkered with both - the decay and ugliness that can exist right under the surface of the american dream - it's a typical trope, but done better than usual.
It's been a while since I saw mulholland but I believe it's similar.
Still though, touches of randomness and tangential stuff to effect mood. I love the part with the dumpster monster, that really stuck with me.
blablabla
Yeah I Suppose I Concur.
#3730 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.59] on 2010/11/30 09:32:38
Doesn't make it a good film tho.
Best Part Of BV
#3731 posted by Drew [174.89.241.140] on 2010/11/30 12:50:42
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snh...
#3732 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.178] on 2010/11/30 19:55:43
Despicable Me (2010)
Great feel good animation movie about a super villian and some girls. Steve Carell does the main character. Skip Up and watch this.
#3733 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/12/01 04:13:47
Really not a fan of Steve Carell getting all these comedy roles, he just isn't good enough.
Compare Jim Carey's character to Steve Carell's character in Horton Hears a Who.... there's no contest, Jim steals the show and Steve is just annoying.
Get Smart, Date Night, 40 year Old Virgin - all would have been better with someone a little funnier and less annoying.
Jim Carrey Is Not Funny
#3734 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/12/01 04:20:38
Hmm
#3735 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2010/12/01 04:50:58
But he flails his arms around and makes silly faces! Clearly comic genius.
Neither Of Them Is Funny
#3736 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/12/01 05:24:53
but Jim Carrey at least has Eternal Sunshine to his name.
...and The Truman Show.
#3737 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/01 09:07:09
+ steve carrell was hilarious in anchorman. LOUD NOISES!
speaking of funny actors though... leslie nielsen. RIP :/
#3738 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/12/01 15:10:32
rj Surely you must be joking!
I'm Not Joking
#3739 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/01 17:41:44
and don't call me shirley!
#3740 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2010/12/01 17:44:53
:( Leslie Nielson
On A Less Shitty Note
#3741 posted by Drew [65.92.21.51] on 2010/12/04 05:00:16
and almost on topic:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioK...
has this been around forever and I just found out? Anyways, I love this.
Just Watched Blue Velvet
#3742 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/04 19:43:59
not sure what to make of it. weird, but not headfuck weird.. just a little bizarre. still watchable though and quite intriguing, i think the soundtrack made it.
also watched identity and the number 23. identity had a cool concept but i'd have preferred it if they didn't dump it on the viewer 2/3 of the way through as a 'twist' - made it feel cheap and ill-explored as a result. the ending was just a bit silly too.
23 wasn't much better either... again interesting, but all the 23 stuff seemed kinda irrelevant once the true story was revealed, at which point it just got a bit boring & tenuous, with a few annoying red herrings.
also, can't wait for this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yS4... 8)
Also
#3743 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/04 20:00:25
wached synecdoche new york. or rather, attempted to watch it... i got 45 mins through it and couldn't be arsed finishing it. it's all focused on one guy whose life is going downhill and at no point did i give a shit about him whatsoever. just boring with nothing going for it
Hurt Locker /w Spoilers
#3744 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/12/04 20:55:52
Super tense movie, really depressing though. Seems like every new bomb situation the stakes get higher or the situation more convoluted - a simple bomb defuse into a car with a hidden detonator into a bomb sewn inside a dead child into a remote detonated oil tanker, etc.
The main character has a death wish more or less and seems completely involved in the war in Iraq, while his team mates can't wait to get home and are afraid to die. He 'forgets' his gloves down near a remote detonation site of explosives and drives down to get them before his team detonates, and in hind sight makes it look like he wants his team mates to blow him up. etc, etc
Probably meant to show how the soldiers are getting fucked up by the war all in different ways. Was a good ride, but yeah it left me depressed in the end.
#3745 posted by Spirit [80.171.53.223] on 2010/12/05 00:48:44
Inception
might be spoilers below.
very cool, dramatic music playing all the time (worked well to create tension), felt quite rough and unpolished, hard to follow sometimes and blatantly obvious at others. i am currently watching 3rd rock from the sun so arthur was super distracting hey little tommy. ending went too fast. way too many idiotic action sequences that added absolutely nothing to the story (or even ridiculed it). character development/introduction was almost non-existant for some key characters and thus it felt rushed and unrealistic (how could the girl agree to join in without knowing shit about it all).
cheesy pretentious bits like the shore of your subconcious, dear god...
how on earth do you give a movie with such a disturbing view on our reality a rating for "12 year olds"?
overall I like Matrix better.
23
#3746 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/12/05 02:45:12
Yeah I just watched The Number 23 as well rj. Was pretty decent for a thriller, though I did pick who wrote the book before it was revealed, but yeah the weird number 23 thing suddenly took a backseat by the end and left a fairly big loose end, as it was never explained where this number 23 going after people came from or why it existed. It just did.
Still, the cinematography was really good, Joel Schumacher did a great job there, which I wasn't really expecting after rubbish like the last 2 Batman movies before the Nolan reboot, and Phone Booth.
And the best thing was finally seeing Jim Carrey in a good NON-COMEDY role. He needs to do more of these.
Saw Machete last night... pretty average. The trailer they showed at the start of Grindhouse was better.
Saw Fright Night 2 yesterday as well, some good old 80s vampire horror. Slightly above average , on par with the original.
Spirit
#3747 posted by nitin [124.148.182.236] on 2010/12/05 10:16:33
Joseph Gordon Levitt is actually a really good actor, someof his indie stuff is really good. Check out The Lookout for a fun ride.
#3748 posted by Spirit [80.171.53.223] on 2010/12/05 11:06:41
Will do, thanks!
Btw Zwiffle
#3749 posted by nitin [124.148.182.236] on 2010/12/05 11:36:26
I didnt think it was it really "what a war does to soldiers" movie, even though there is plenty of that.
And IMHO that's what sets it apart from many other recent war films. Although it has its flaws, the focus on a character that seems to thrive on, if not love, the adrenalin rush of war was an interesting take. Also helps that its ferociously suspenseful.
#3750 posted by Spirit [213.39.146.218] on 2010/12/05 20:49:49
The Lookout was quite good. Thanks!
Glad You Liked It
#3751 posted by nitin [124.168.202.237] on 2010/12/06 11:04:50
I found it a very underrated film.
Pandorum
#3752 posted by Baker [99.22.67.46] on 2010/12/06 13:52:18
Pandorum (2009): Good Sci-Fi horror movie like RickyT23 said. The plot twists towards the end and how it pounds it into you like twisting a knife made the slightly above averagish rest of the plot strike big gold.
More independent Sci-fi films like this and Moon, please.
The Social Network (2010). I got somewhat forcibly dragged to this movie by my girlfriend. Despite great reviews, it really wasn't on my list of movies I *wanted* to see. This movie sucks you in big time. Considering it is almost a slightly glorified documentary, the evil cunning portrayed in the movie leaves you in constant suspense. Yeah, I'm sure a ton of people have seen it, but still ...
Punch Drunk Love (2001). Adam Sandler movie from years back. Uncomfortable at times. The comedy towards the end makes it a winner. Kind of dark for Adam Sandler.
Justice League (2009): Crisis on Two Earths. Awesome. A sick and evil Owlman (alternate dimension Batman) secretly plans to destroy all reality. A "good" Lex Luthor teams up with the Justice League and fights the evil alternate dimension Justice League. Owlman is a sick bastard. Lots of good action. Predictable, but delivers what you expect ... Superman fighting an evil superman, super-criminals previously unchecked getting owned, Batman kicking some ass smugly.
Batman Under The Red Hood (2010): Possibly the first Batman animated movie approaching a near anime level plot quality. The unstoppable villain turns out to be a presumed dead Robin who decides to tackle crime by being a crime lord.
The Substitute (1996). Tom Berenger is a substitute teacher in a gangsta school who is really a mercenary. A lot of fun if you like to watch the consequences of a gangsta high school student thinking he can fuck with the teacher.
These last 3 are instant watch on Netflix.
Truecrimes (2007). A Brazillian dubbed independent film with time travel consequences. Such a drawing plot that even though it was captioned only in English, the plot and the absolute shock WAY overcomes that to deliver something almost as sickeningly tragic the movie "The Fly".
Brubaker (1980). A progressive prison director played by Robert Redford seeks to reform a corrupt Alabama prison system. I knew little to nothing about Robert Redford's body of work, this movie is near Shawshank Redemption quality.
Get Carter (1971). Michael Caine as tough guy criminal taking on organized crime in the UK to find his brother's killer. Brutally awesome and witty.
Rob Roy (1995). Liam Neeson. The whole movie is gut-wretching with a quite unexpected plot twist ending.
#3753 posted by Spirit [80.171.98.134] on 2010/12/06 22:10:18
Grown Ups (2010)
Disgusting dipshits realise what bad lives they live, talk about it and in good hollywood fashion become true american slightly less disgusting dipshits. When I started watching I knew it was bad, then I thought it had potential but it just kept being more terrible. Had some nice sexy girls though, that's the only upside. Truly ugly movie in my opinion. Utter hollywood trash.
#3754 posted by Spirit [80.171.40.73] on 2010/12/07 20:32:38
Layer Cake (2004)
What's been said above. Can't recommend it. 5/10. Had potential. nitin summed it up nicely two times. ;-D
Toy Story 3
#3755 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/12/09 05:02:18
Flonking amazing film. Hard to believe Pixar just keeps cranking out these amazing films. TS3 is probably their best one yet. Had me laughing so hard I couldn't breathe at one point, and it wasn't nearly as sad as I thought it would be based on word of mouth. The ending is actually kind of sappy but not really sad at all imo, probably the only logical conclusion to the story. Also, I actually said "What a dork" at the end about Andy. Definitely worth seeing.
Word
#3756 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/09 19:03:09
TS3 is looking like my film of the year; loved every bit of it. probably the best 'part 3' to any series i've ever seen, too
Busy Week
#3757 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/12 00:50:08
the good...
good will hunting (1997) - some of the best dialogue i've ever heard in this... whether it was being poignant or emotional or hard-hitting or funny or just plain entertaining it was always razor sharp. i loved the bar / park bench scenes especially. the characters were great, especially williams' shrink. wasn't a massive fan of the ending but still a nice story in all.
brazil (1985) - this surprised me. it's nothing like twelve monkeys at all... in fact a lot closer to monty python in terms of dark humour and overall bizarreness. hugely entertaining and visually immense, with a brilliant ending
the bad...
despicable me (2010) - ok maybe it wasn't THAT bad... it's mildly amusing and occasionally cute, but unlike - for example - TS3 (or most pixar titles), it never really advances beyond being a kids movie. the characters are pretty weak and underdeveloped and it never felt like there was anything running below the surface for adults to appreciate
what dreams may come (1998) - ugh, this was just a non-stop barrage of sappiness that got stuck in the slow lane early on and never picked up. the visuals looked nice but as far as metaphorical images of heaven & hell go it was all pretty cliched and unadventurous, despite a clearly large budget. the plot gets complicated towards the end but i stopped caring enough to actually follow it
and the ugly...
in the mouth of madness (1995) - how the blazes this got a 7.0 on imdb is completely beyond me; it's one of the worst horror films i've ever seen. half baked concept riddled with plot holes and cliches, 2-bit characters, laughable acting, terrible effects and cheesy-as-hell soundtracking throughout. the only thing going for it is one unintentionally hilarious scene where a pack of evil dogs are set on a bunch of men with guns... "shall we use the guns??" "of course not! we'll just panic, run backwards and fall over!" *various disorientating close-ups of dogs gnarling prosthetic body parts*
#3758 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.48] on 2010/12/12 18:25:07
Il mercenario (1981)
Mixed bag western. One of the better Morricone soundtracks. Felt quite rough, not well told. Sometimes very cool. The woman was just annoying.
Warning, Lord Of The Rings Fanboyism Ahead
#3759 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.50] on 2010/12/19 11:05:39
I recently re-read the first book of Lord of the Rings and yesterday we watched the first movie. Dear god, how blinded must I have been that I considered the movies excellent when I saw them in cinema. Compared to the book this one was quite rubbish. So much silly hollywoodism and deep things being changed for the sake of special effects and fighting. Especially the squid at Moria and the "the black riders are 1 meter away from Arwen & Frodo but hey, let's ride for another 2km because it is so much fun fun fun!" left a bitter taste in my mouth. What a shame. Other parts are stuffed together so quickly and harshly that there is no sense for the journey at all. Not to mention all the crap with Isengart and Saruman.
The Movies Are Excellent
#3760 posted by nitin [202.161.19.14] on 2010/12/19 11:07:44
but as adaptation they are probably fair.
Whats on the page does not always translate well to the screen.
^ Extended Edition
#3761 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.50] on 2010/12/19 11:11:07
and high-five to Shambler for using "hollywoodism" too, earlier in this thread
^ I Did Not Choose That Smiley, Magick?
#3762 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.50] on 2010/12/19 11:12:10
The Nines & Centurion
#3763 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/12/19 12:04:27
Just watched The Nines, with Ryan Reynolds in a serious role. What a great little fantasy drama (sci-fi if you ask me, but not according to imdb). Probably an 8/10 - best i've seen in the last few weeks (since I wanked on about Martyrs).
Saw Centurion today as well. Not usually my type of movie, the historic epics have been done to death. But it's Neil Marshall (Dog Soldiers, The Descent) so I had to give it a shot. It'd at least have great cinematography. Wasn't a bad film either. Predictable with the normal historic flaws but good visuals. Ended a little abruptly though, i'm guessing to set up a sequel.
LOTR
#3764 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/12/19 12:07:45
Elijah Wood/Frodo was just too annoying for me to ever have a chance of enjoying LOTR. Even Harry Potter would have been more bearable.
#3765 posted by gb [89.27.244.62] on 2010/12/19 20:59:27
I thought the LOTR movies were as well done as possible. The books are the real thing, but the movies are pretty good. I like the squid. I also like goofy things like Sauron's Mouth.
The one part that I found a bit cheesy was the green undead army in part 3. Oh well.
Some things are really beautiful in the movie, such as the use of Anglo-Saxon or whatever it was (Old English?). Generally part 2 is my favourite.
Elijah Wood was casted before 9/11, back when it was still OK to be all weak and sensitive.
I think what you call Hollywoodism is simply Jackson's total fanboyish reverence of the whole thing and a lot of it is already in the books, really.
The fighting is actually really good in LOTR. I could do without goofy dwarf jokes in between though.
If you like LOTR, you might be able to stomach The Nibelungs, the semi-recent made-for-TV version I mean. In some ways that is quite refreshing (set in the early middle ages instead of the late, for example, with matching costumes etc). Watching Kristanna Løken brawl her way through the movie with various weapons is kinda entertaining, at least.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vji...
It's an international production, more in line with things like the 13th warrior etc. than LOTR. Mostly. It's known under several names, like Dark Kingdom or The Dragon King.
Star Wars
#3766 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/12/20 00:44:52
Just got done watching Star Wars Episodes 1 through 6. What is the big flonking deal? Were 6 episodes necessary? The only characters I liked were Liam Neeson, black/red Sith bro, Emperor when he wasn't being a bitch, and Han Solo because he's Harrison mother fucking Ford.
Not sure why everyone likes the movies or whatever. I will probably never watch these again in my entire life.
AKA
#3767 posted by Vigil [89.27.42.215] on 2010/12/20 00:47:38
The Curse of the Ring: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt038754...
I swear that movie has more names than I can keep track of. Saw a Spanish dub on a bus once. Truly enthralling experience.
On fantasy epics, in March HBO will start showing the first series of A Song of Ice and Fire.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atF...
Star Wars
#3768 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2010/12/20 02:47:11
I think with Star Wars, in order to love is so much you had to have grown up a few decades ago when they were made. Back then, they were good movies that introduced the scifi genre to blockbuster. Hence millions of fanboys.
But by todays standards, Star Wars isn't actually that good. But they had the huge franchise already built, so the last 3 movies were hugely popular again, despite being crappy childrens movies, ala Avatar.
But I still don't know why people love them so much these day. None of the Star Wars movies would make my top 200. I do enjoy some of the Star Wars games though.
Re: Star Wars
#3769 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/12/20 03:21:08
I will say that I appreciated the older (4 through 6) episodes better, simply because of their 70s 'charm.' Reminded me more of Alien or Indiana Jones or whatever, which I did grow up with.
Re: Star Wars
#3770 posted by jt_ [174.252.251.205] on 2010/12/20 03:28:28
Boba fete, ig-88, and dengar. <3
I Only Saw Them For The First Time About 7-8 Years Ago
#3771 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2010/12/20 03:45:44
and still found Eps 4 and 5 to be classics. The rest are rubbish though.
Re: Boba Fett
#3772 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2010/12/20 04:01:04
What's the big deal with the Fetts? They both got beaten like a couple of chumps ... I thought they were supposed to be bad asses?
#3773 posted by gb [89.27.208.153] on 2010/12/20 21:54:02
We played with SW action figures when I was like 7, happily inventing spaceship stories. I also had an album for these little sticky pics that you could collect. From Return of the Jedi.
A little later I got a cassette tape with the audio from Part 4 I think? The one with the garbage press. I used to listen to that and imagine the whole movie. I didn't actually see it until much later.
Childhood memories pretty much.
Brazil
#3774 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2010/12/22 21:41:45
Not bad, pretty quirky sense of humor that seemed just to poke fun at a statist, overly-beaurocratic government-run society.
But then shit got kind of eerie and conspiratorial. It was still had that quirky sense of humor took on a darker more serious tone at the same time. The dream sequences have some pretty obvious and some less obvious symbols to glean meaning from, and just looks cool at the same time. I also really like the world they made, it could have been inspiration for Bioshock in places.
Apparently there are two different endings according to Pope, and the version I saw ended with (SPOILER)
the main character getting tortured until he lost his sanity, all because of a computer error.
Brazil Endings
#3775 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/22 22:23:03
***SPOILERS*** obviously...
from imdb:
Gilliam had trouble with studio producers over the black ending he wanted on the film. The producers wanted a "happy Hollywood" film which eliminated (among other things) the final transition and a critical line of dialogue which reveals the fate of Jill. These changes were made, and this "butchered" version was shown on US television at least once. Gilliam threatened to disown the film, and consequently the cinematic release and all videotape versions show the film essentially as he intended it to be seen (although the US cinematic release still omitted the line about Jill).
i can see how it would have been pretty easy to edit it into a happy hollywood-style ending. only really need to delete the last few seconds, the jill line and possibly the bit where deniro's character mysteriously disappears (which kind of gave away that it wasn't all real)
Thats The Better
#3776 posted by nitin [124.149.83.198] on 2010/12/22 22:24:47
version :)
Revolver (2005)
#3777 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2010/12/22 23:26:57
surprised no-one in the thread has commented on this. anyone else seen it? thoughts?
it's a guy ritchie gangster movie starring jason statham & ray liotta, and starts out pretty much how you'd expect from a combination like that but evolves into something completely different; a borderline art-house thriller focusing on psychological battles with occasional spiritual overtones
i'm not sure what to think of it. it's far from perfect - too many elements got thrown into the mix and much of its message got obscured by a rather convoluted plot (plus it borrows rather uncomfortably from the usual suspects in a few places) but the closing stages were a proper headfuck, with one of the most bizarre endings i have ever seen. worth the watch if you like head-wasting films that leave you slightly confused & asking questions, but it probably would have suited a different director better (though props to guy for having the balls to experiment a little)
speaking of gangster movies starring ray liotta, i also watched goodfellas for the first time too. great fun, brilliantly made & surrounded by an air of coolness throughout; can't pick any faults with it. but it was very much a closed book, unlike the above... the end was the end, and i didn't find myself dedicating any thinking time to it afterwards. which sometimes is fine, obviously, but i've grown to like a bit of open-endedness recently...
Havent Seen Revolver
#3778 posted by nitin [124.149.83.198] on 2010/12/22 23:32:10
but Goodfellas is great stuff, not quite Godfather/II level but very close.
Tron Legacy
#3779 posted by Baker [69.223.181.125] on 2010/12/26 01:59:27
Plot was ok, action was nice. But a few things really stood out ...
1) The costume design, the building architecture and the design of the "Tron virtual world" wasn't remotely derivative of any recent movies. Everything was unique.
2) Watching "the younger Jeff Bridges". Actors and aging is on track to be a non-issue in the future.
3) The 3D and special effects were incredible. The bike fight scene was A++++++.
I'm actually interested in seeing what Tron Legacy video games are going to be like.
#3780 posted by Spirit [80.171.145.117] on 2011/01/01 12:58:06
Haha, I just noticed Tyres from Spaced in the zombie crowd in Shaun of the Dead (when Shaun runs off the let the others enter the Winchester). Never noticed that before.
#3781 posted by Spirit [80.171.145.117] on 2011/01/01 23:59:07
The Town (2010) (Extended Edition)
so-so. We (germans) had a really hard time with the voices. Muffled and full of slang. Halfway through the movie we enabled subtitles, then it was better. Car chase was nice indeed. Good use of subtle music. Weird cast for the FBI dude. Not so great ending. Won't watch it again but it is alright.
Jul qvq ur xvyy gur sybevfg? Ur guerngrarq gb xvyy gurz vs gurl qvq fbzrguvat gb gur tvey, juvpu gurl qvq abg. Fb whfg sbe eriratr?
Spirit
#3782 posted by nitin [202.161.28.45] on 2011/01/02 00:39:16
the theatrical is actually better, quite a bit less bloated. Although if I could choose, I would mix half the scenes from the extended back into the theatrical.
Winter's Bone
#3783 posted by Tronyn [174.2.53.253] on 2011/01/02 09:07:15
just watched it... seems like a contender for best film of 2010. the preview doesn't really show what it's about. john hawkes is amazing in it, as is jennifer lawrence. the accents are done perfectly. garret dillahunt is appropriately slimey as usual (his "Mr W" is a friend's favourite performance in Deadwood). I'm really loving this whole modern bleak western thing (The Proposition, The Road, No Country For Old Men, There Will Be Blood, etc). That's why True Grit was so disappointing - way too conventional.
Double Post Yay
#3784 posted by Tronyn [174.2.53.253] on 2011/01/02 09:10:17
re: Spirit a while ago
Fellowship is by far the best LOTR movie and still one of my favourite movies... however when you realize that the whole "the hero recieves a crucial moral mission from the lips of a dying man" scene was TOTALLY INSERTED and UTTERLY CLICHE, you lose some respect for what they did. Still waiting for an R-rated historical "epic" film without good guys or bad guys, although I guess Deadwood kind of counts.
#3785 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/02 10:48:18
Watched Session 9 and Easy A (gfs pick) today. Session 9 was a pretty good horror flick. Has you guessing a little till the end, which was a little anti-climatic. But good suspense. Easy A was worth watching just to see Emma Stone bouncing around in slutty outfits.
Winter's Bone
#3786 posted by nitin [202.161.28.45] on 2011/01/02 14:50:41
yeah really looking forward to that, although I am also in for True Grit on the pedigree alone.
True Grit
#3787 posted by starbuck [66.87.5.123] on 2011/01/07 23:32:31
Having just watched TRON, and feeling gypped, we sneaked into True Grit, to give The Bridges a shot of redemption. Oh you have atoned for your crimes Jeff, you have dun good this time.
Awesome film through and through. Far more visually impressive than neon lights and grids, too.
It's got a lot of praise for the characters, and that's legit. The little girl who plays the lead is a straight badass through determination alone, and I really liked how a lot of the 'bad guys' weren't all that bad really. Much nicer than the aimless evil dude in Tron.
My god this is a ramble-tastic review. I rate Tron Grit 4 light cycles / horse.
#3788 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.206] on 2011/01/08 00:42:58
RED (2010)
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Was a bit wary because of malkovich who I only saw super pretentious artsy weird films with, great role here. Highly recommended if you might like an action thriller comedy that does not take itself seriously yet manages to not feel silly. A bit like the nolf games. Great plot/story.
Yarr
#3789 posted by Tronyn [205.200.202.157] on 2011/01/08 01:52:47
I liked True Grit, which I saw a week before Winter's Bone, but the latter definitely seemed to have a more determined young female lead and a more badass older supporting dude. And - respect to Roger Deakins - the cinematography is better, in fact some of the best that comes to mind in the last few years.
The idea that the "good guys" know the "bad guys" and that the real difference (or difference-maker) is just external legal/financial pressure, is well-developed in both films.
Roger Deakins
#3790 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/08 04:23:04
is so underappreciated. I watch some movies just because he shot them :)
Just a quick one, saw [Rec]2, they obviously wanted to make this what Aliens was to Alien. Unfortunately it doesnt really work despite a handful of very nifty moments. Most of it is down to exposition about how things came to be, and as usual, the unexplained version was much better than the explained version (which also lacks credibility).
In General, Totally
#3791 posted by Tronyn [205.200.202.157] on 2011/01/08 05:17:50
the unexplained in a film - particularly as it relates to threats - can be the best thing in a film. The complete lack of explanation in Alien, for example, is genius. Same with The Thing. And even for human characters, Chigurh and the Nolan/Ledger Joker are both so much creepier because their motives are, as one critic put it, "both unexplained, and beside the point."
Actually while I'm pretentiously ranting, David Simon (MacArthur award recipient and creator of The Wire) said that he went back to the Greek view of tragedy - where you just get arbitrarily fucked over - as opposed to the Shakespearean view where some character flaw, leading to a critical choice, fucks you over. He said he thought the Greek view of sheer arbitrariness was more appropriate to a world ruled by transnational, unaccountable institutions. I suspect this is why the movies I mentioned seem so profound now, whereas in the past it was easier to put a face and a motivation to the "bad guy," as much of a lie as that may have been people were more ready to believe it.
"beside The Point"
#3792 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/08 05:31:32
is really the key. There is too much fetishism in modern cinema with explaining every last minute detail of stuff that doesnt really matter, at the expense of stuff that does (mainly characterisation).
As for greek v Shakespearean tragedy, I think both have their place, it really depends on what you're going for themtically and tonally, but knowing the difference is crucial.
#3793 posted by Tronyn [205.200.202.157] on 2011/01/08 05:52:14
I was talking to a film student who knows way more than me today, and he pointed out that by the time film was 60 years old it had masterpieces that still haven't been surpassed, while the TV format is only now experiencing a renaissance, especially with regards to establishing character. I thought it was an amazing point, one damned good advance of the last 10 years is serious TV series.
PS I love Shakespeare but I vote for the Greek view. Shakespeare was contaminated (yes I'm that asshole) by Christianity. The Greeks never heard of that shit, they just talked about how nasty nature was. Nature'll fuck you, forget that lame ass satan.
I Think Dvd/avis
#3794 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/08 07:07:41
has helped tv a lot.
Challenging dense series that dont have a finite finish in every episode are way more accessible when you can sit through a whole season back to back. I really dont know how I could watch Mad Men, Deadwood, The Wire etc on a week t week basis :)
You Know
#3795 posted by Tronyn [205.200.202.157] on 2011/01/08 13:41:32
ridiculous but I just realized (mostly because of your post), that the entire idea of an ending, is the most artificial shit ever. In fact, never give me an ending, and whoever wants an ending doesn't get the idea of TV as a random glimpse into a different world.
#3796 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/08 22:40:04
Hehe Tronyn movies without endings are crap though. It'd be like if the LOTR, Matrix, Harry Potter never moved past the first movie. The story would just feel incomplete and I'd be completely dissatisfied. Like a game without a big end fight.
Has there ever been a movie that didn't have a conclusion/ending, where it worked?
The Matrix
#3797 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.96.4] on 2011/01/08 22:53:50
should not have moved past the first movie
Fucking Agree
#3798 posted by SleepwalkR [92.231.234.102] on 2011/01/08 23:07:21
#3799 posted by Spirit [80.171.145.162] on 2011/01/09 00:03:10
The Other Guys (2010)
It just does not end. Stupid movie. Depressing unlikable characters. Bland jokes. Stupid. Stupid. Still 30 minutes to watch, why am I doing this?
Quadrophenia(1979)
#3800 posted by the silent [80.180.162.17] on 2011/01/09 00:27:44
Just re-watched it. Loved it.
Any of you guys have seen it?
Some Quick Ones
#3801 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/09 03:27:05
because I feel like mini reviewing again:
Book of Eli - Very interesting idea, although I'm not sure the very end does justice to it, and it also works as a genre film. Action scenes are impressive, as are Washington, Oldman and Kunis. Cinematography is a bit hit and miss due to the style used which sometimes feels a little too self conscious.
6.5/10
The Warlords (125 min HK cut) - Another film that splutters in the third act but up until then it's a pretty good mix of asian melodrama, brutal action and sweeping scenery. Jet Lit acquits himself well and the midpoint battle scene is spectacular.
6.5/10
Toy Story 3 - Not as good as 1 and 2, ut miles ahead of most movies, animated or otherwise. Took about 20 min for me to really get into it, but once the prison break storyline starts, its a heap of fun. Spanish Buzz Light Year is one of Pixar's best characters.
8/10
Daybreakers - Surprisingly excellent futuristic vampire genre film. The plot is actually pretty similar to the premise of True Blood but the script is smarter, edgier and less camp. Nothing groundbreaking but a very solid genre film with a number of nifty takes on the vampire mythos.
7-7.5/10
Tropic Thunder - much better than I was expecting, mainly due to Robert Downey Jnr but Stiller also deserves credit for making it smarter than it should be. Does still resort to stupid gags quite a lot but some of Downey Jnr's scenes are hilarious.
6-6.5/10
Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters - excellent biopic of Japanese author Yuko Mishima. Paul Schrader aboids the usual biopic narrative (and its trappings) by mixing together scenes from Mishima's last day, his childhood, and hyper stylized recreations of 3 of his more famous novels. Bit confusing for someone who doesnt know anything about the subject (like me), but riveting nonetheless.
7.5/10
Sherlock Holmes (Guy Ritchie Version)
#3802 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/01/09 04:47:56
Okay I suppose, action scenes were unnecessary and felt out of place, but I suppose the actors did well enough jobs of playing their characters that you can forgive it. Wasn't as witty or quirky as other action/adventure movies. Felt it was completely watchable though.
Same Here, I Liked It
#3803 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/09 06:21:20
although the BBC version of Sherlock that I just finished shits all over it.
Check it out, 3 mini movies, second a little weak but first and third are great.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt147558...
Yeah
#3804 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/01/09 06:34:09
Totally loved that modern day Sherlock. Can't wait for more. Doing 3 movies instead of 12 episodes or whatever zany UK schedule they use is weird but I totally appreciated it.
Asaki didn't like it, cuz he's a dork.
Haha
#3805 posted by mwh [64.255.180.230] on 2011/01/09 07:28:45
This long haul flight has the expendables in it's movie system - and airnz let you drink as much as you want - rock on!
Also
#3806 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/09 08:09:55
Rambo 4 - had never seen any of the Rambos but was pleasantly surprised by the sheer efficiency of this one. Its a little bit contradictory thematically but its beautifully shot and the action scenes are suitably visceral. Stallone also has surprisingly decent presence in this one.
6.5/10
Middle East Vs Vietnam War Movies
#3807 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/09 10:41:02
oh nitin you disappoint me, how could you have not seen ANY of the previous Rambos! 1 and 2 are best. The third is crap. In fact, I'm yet to really like any American-based middle eastern war movie. Maybe Vietnam was just a much better setting, but it's had some classics; Rambo 2, Apocalypse Now, Platoon, Full Metal Jacket. Hell even Forest Gump and Jacob's Ladder, although they're not officially war movies. What the fuck has middle east had? Three Kings and Green Zone were okay. Blood Diamond and Body Of Lies were decent (because of Di Caprio) but certainly not classics.
Anyway back to Rambo. The 4th was okay, but definitely nowhere near as good as the first 2.
#3808 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/09 10:50:37
Oh and Nick Nolte and Tom Cruise made Tropic Thunder for me. I wish Danny Mcbride and Steve Coogan were used a lot more as well, they're both funny pricks. Although Coogan seems to be struggling with being funny any most of his hollywood movie characters, Knowing Me Knowing You and The Alan Partridge Show is classic brit comedy.
I've seen enough of Robert Downey Jr, Jack Black and Ben Stiller. In fact, apart from Zoolander and There's Something About Mary (which was funny due to the script and other characters, not Stiller), not one of those 3 have done a very funny comedy in their careers.
Rambo
#3809 posted by negke [88.70.53.166] on 2011/01/09 12:09:37
First Blood is okay, but 2?! This scene sums it up pretty accurately: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Dr...
#3810 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.81] on 2011/01/09 13:07:32
<rant>
I thought Rambo 4 was pretty terrible and morally rancid. This from someone that loves violent games. The entire film is about a hour of set up so you can morally enjoy watching people get slaughter in as bloody a way as they could.
As ruthlessreviews summerised it: Aging slab of beef slaughters asians. Whites rejoice.
It would have been alright if it wasn't trying to tie itself into real world events. Yeah, news footage of real masacres and stuff at the beginning... really tasteful guys. Revenge fantasy isn't necessarily awful, although it's very questionable, but trying to tie it to the real world in so blatant a way, tells of a nation (or at least a core market) with a fucked up psyche.
imo
</rant> :)
Kona
#3811 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/09 13:18:45
no interest in previous Rambos, I know what I like :) Watched 4 because someone else was.
Middle East war movies, Jarhead was good, Hurt Locker was excellent, and even though its not american The Bsttle of Algiers sits at the top of the pile.
And as for Downey Jnr, I like him a lot. Stiller and Black not so much.
ZQF, morally rancid, arguably so. Well made action movie, I would say arguably so.
As for the violence, I personally think if there is to be violence on screen, it should be on the ugly side rather than the cartoony side.
As for tying into real world events, there's plenty of entertainment that takes its cue from tragedies in the real world. Most modern video games for example.
#3812 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.81] on 2011/01/09 13:53:58
"there's plenty of entertainment that takes its cue from tragedies in the real world."
Certainly funny to see how over the top the latest CoD games have become. Quite funny to see something trying so hard to be shocking or intense :p
Well.
#3813 posted by Shambler [86.25.164.82] on 2011/01/09 18:19:23
Daybreakers was really good. A grittier antidote to all the festering cheese teenage romance vampire bullshit.
Tropic Thunder on the otherhand, was utterly awful and devoid of any entertaiment value. I would struggle to give it 6-6.5 %.
Heh - I Must Be Thee Only Guy Who Liked
#3814 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.184.198] on 2011/01/09 18:26:34
Tropic Thunder. It was Downey Jr's performance as a closet gay white actor playing a black butch vietnam vet. He's a genius.
#3815 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2011/01/11 00:23:17
the karate kid (2010)
the scene where jackie chan beats up a bunch of schoolkids using their own fists was awesome!
the rest was shit. 2-bit characters, half-backed sub-plots, zero unpredictability and all the rousing cliches in the book. the ending was a massive disappointment too, although that was mainly because i was hoping jaden smith would get his head kicked in. i wasn't expecting anything serious in all but even by cheap popcorn entertainment it was a bit naff
the big lebowski
i'd been meaning to watch this for years. will prob take a few repeat viewings before i can properly appreciate it on a similar level as its cult followers, but nevertheless for a first time viewing it was an enjoyable ride. very funny and warped, but more subtle than most comedies, with several clever plot twists to boot. john goodman is especially brilliant; the ashes scene had me in creases :)
Goodman
#3816 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/01/11 00:49:53
is the only thing I like about lebowski, actually him and Buscemi.
The Expendables
#3817 posted by mwh [63.133.153.66] on 2011/01/11 04:14:19
was rubbish. Not even the good kind of rubbish.
I Agree Stallone Is Beyond Funny In That Movie.
#3818 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.184.198] on 2011/01/11 04:30:49
And not in a good way. But the auto-shotgun is cool.
Watched Monsters
I liked it. Excellent character development and a different angle on a Sci-Fi 'Horror'. Dont wanna spoil it, but there is some good directing and a real sense of suspense. Novel ending.
#3819 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.195] on 2011/01/11 07:52:32
Big lebowski bored me so much I stopped watching
#3820 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/11 09:38:08
I didn't understand the big cult following it got either. The acting and script was good, but the storyline was pretty boring. Burn After Reading is my fav Coen movie, strangely. Followed by No Country for Old Men.
Watched A Serious Man a couple months ago. What a boring pile of crap. The Coens are supposed to known for their script and black humour, but that was just boring.
#3821 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.88.78] on 2011/01/11 09:53:14
Try the Man Who Wasn't There
Serios Man
#3822 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/11 11:58:07
was great as is The Man Who Wasnt There. Strangely, I find all their non-straight out comedies funnier than their straight out stuff (Raizing Arizona, Big Lebowski).
Overall though, I find everything of theris, except The Ladykillers, well worth watching.
I Found A Serious Man To Be
#3823 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.217.189] on 2011/01/11 12:20:08
watchable, actually quite enthralling, I grew attached to the characters, and I caught some of the black humour, but the ending sucked. I mean seriously - W. T. F.
It's like a non-ending. Unless the point of the ending is just to say that all of your troubles seem like nothing when faced with a
<SPOILER>
natural disaster like a bloody great big tornado.
</SPOILER>
Big Lebowski
#3824 posted by Drew [65.92.22.104] on 2011/01/11 23:29:39
I like it very much, though I do think it's over rated. I love the way that the film noir plot points juxtapoze with the more modern setting/ characters, and I love goodman and Buscemi. Also the penis sketch, that gets me every time.
Also watched Lost Highway the other day - other than the 90's-ness of it, I really really enjoyed that movie. Marilyn Manson, Henry ROllins and RAMSCHTEIN are super distracting though - did the financiers make him shoehorn that crap in there or what?
Going to watch Elephant man very soon.
Has black swan been discussed?
AMAZING sound design in that movie. Watched that thing very high in the front row and was pretty happy with the final product.
Oh, Also
#3825 posted by Drew [65.92.22.104] on 2011/01/11 23:32:08
I thought daybreakers had like, 2 interesting parts/concepts, but was pretty terrible overall.
Yay For Another Lost Highway Fan
#3826 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/12 02:24:45
Elephant Man is my favorite Lynch though, and my third favorite film of all time. But now with that buildup, you'll probably hate it :)
RickyT23
#3827 posted by ionous [75.67.189.47] on 2011/01/12 02:29:38
I don't know about others, but I thought the ending wrapped things up pretty nicely. As a whole, the story can be described as a version of the story of Job. The ultimate bet, that is God pisses on someone every day, they'll eventually renounce him. In the bible, Job proved God right, never renouncing him.
In the movie, the main character fails, by caving in with the student. God tested him, threw a storm of shit at him, but he lasted. Towards the end, things are looking up for him. He's probably going to be promoted, his wife is coming back to him, his son had a good Bar-Mitzvah thing. He passed.
but...
Then he changes the grade. I think it no coincidence that was soon as he changes it, the phone rings, with what appears to be bad news. The tornado at the end? Most likely kills his son.
Earlier in the movie, they referenced Schrodinger's cat. The phone call almost seems to be a direct example of it. If he changes the grade, is the news good? I think it is.
But since he did change it, there's going to be hell to pay.
Lol
#3828 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.184.198] on 2011/01/12 02:43:52
There's a lot of things in that movie I know nothing about. That's probably why I didn't get it. Although it makes a bit of sense now I guess. I enjoyed the performances :)
Ionous's Post Sums It Up
#3829 posted by nitin [203.217.72.238] on 2011/01/12 02:49:13
I was going to post something but his is a lot more coherent.
And Sy Abelman is up there with classic Coen characters.
Big Leboski
#3830 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2011/01/13 12:09:55
I love it, one of my favorites, must've seen it 5-7 times and i still laugh my ass off watching it. I know almost all the lines ;-)
Interestingly enough, this is one movie where I think that the German dubbing adds to the movie: they translated every "fuck" into "bekackt", which is not actually a term you commonly use in German (it's legal grammar though, I think) -- that makes it a lot more surreal and weird, I can imagine.
Agree
#3831 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/01/13 14:54:53
The Big Lebowski is bekackting phenomenal. One of my favorites.
Heh
#3832 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2011/01/13 18:37:56
i wonder how well a german version of this would work... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU2...
For Rj
#3833 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2011/01/13 18:55:08
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olE...
not as good as the original, i guess ;O
Double Rofl
#3834 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.184.198] on 2011/01/13 19:01:22
#3835 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2011/01/13 19:08:49
brilliant :D
F Is For...
#3836 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2011/01/24 22:44:57
fail, for me, rather shockingly, never having seen either of these massively successful and critically acclaimed movies prior to yesterday...
fargo - in light of the above coen bros discussion it dawned on me i'd never got round to seeing what is probably their most popular effort. it's par for the course for them with regards to pace, suspense and black humour but what sold it for me was the sheer bleakness of the snow-ridden setting, which complimented the overall vibe perfectly. margie was one of the most refreshing protagonists i've ever seen too and provided some appreciated light amidst the darkness. satisfying!
fight club - i'm honestly quite disgusted and appalled at myself for calling myself a film fan for the past 11 years having not seen this. i knew the 'twist' almost straight away after its release which i think put me off and i even gave it a miss after one time i started watching it accidentally, way back around 2000 in the kazaa days, when i thought i'd downloaded the matrix.. heh. but i saw it last night and it's probably rocketed its way straight into my all time top 5. at least. i was virtually buzzing for a full hour after it finished.. just my kind of movie on every level
#3837 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.96.4] on 2011/01/24 23:19:36
Dexter Season 5
A waste of a great premise, and a waste of my time.
#3838 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/24 23:58:46
and what is your top 5 rj?
started watching Repulsion last night. 2/3rds through. my god, what tripe this is so far. i'll finish it today tho.
i liked fargo, loved fight club (not enough for me top 30 tho)
Inception
#3839 posted by Zwiffle [66.170.5.18] on 2011/01/25 00:02:03
Didn't really live up to the hype, sort of like the Matrix all over again. The premise may have been mind blowing for several people unfamiliar or only mildly into scifi, but seemed rather convoluted and uninspired to me. It wasn't a bad movie by any stretch, but the hype surrounding it just left it rather flat in the end.
Kona
#3840 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/01/25 00:41:31
Repulsion is absolutely awesome in my book.
Would like to hear why you didnt like it though.
Eesh
#3841 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2011/01/25 01:57:37
kona, you've just made me sit and think for the past half hour and i'm not sure i even have a solid top 5 any more :)
my problem is i often like different films for completely different reasons. so it's hard to compare them. ones that will always work for me are:
human traffic - mainly because it reminds me of the happiest nights of my life but also for being hilariously warped, brilliantly acted and with every true-to-life nuance down to a T, all wrapped up with a heartwarmingly simple message that has resonated with me over the years. that said it's not one i'd recommend on filmmaking qualities alone; it's more of a cult thing
donnie darko - i know a few have criticised the time travel elements for being too fantasy; i personally love the fantasy element and found it suitably captivating in an escapist kind of way. i love the dialogue, i love the atmosphere, music, editing & visuals. i love how i actually feel a part of donnie's world rather than merely being an appreciative onlooker, sucked in through a portal of my own into kelly's ever-repeating tangeant universe...
the truman show - i'll always remember first watching this expecting a typical jim carrey comedy and suddenly realising part-way through just how dark the actual premise is. it actually left me profoundly uncomfortable in places, which possibly made the ending feel all the more uplifting. i've appreciated the satirical elements on repeat viewings, too
memento - i like all of nolan's movies but this will never be topped for sheer ingenuity. no real emotional connection for me in it; i'm just consistently blown away by how awesome it is
that's almost five! i might just give #5 to fight club since i can't decide between the usual suspects, l.a. confidential, in bruges, t2, aliens, dead poets society, requiem for a dream... and my 'to watch' list is still looking absolutely huge with some pretty notorious names on it
#3842 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/25 02:51:34
Yeah donnie darko, the truman show and memento are all brilliant movies. i think a lot of people, the 'film critics' who won't put any post 90's films in their greatest list, would overlook the truman show because of jim carey and the elements of comedy he put in it. but carey made that movie for me; the last 15mins when he escapes the house was very gripping.
Repulsion
#3843 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/25 03:00:51
well i haven't finished it yet nitin, but I was expecting an intense, psychological thriller. instead it's been quite boring so far because her downward spiral seems to be poorly done and poorly acted, consisting mainly of her staring into space and ignoring people and a couple rape hallucinations.
there's no reasoning behind her issues, as yet. she's quite an unlikable lead character.
and roman's long, lingering shots of nothing of relevance (ie the weird band marching across the street, took forever) aren't that appealing.
still, i'm not at the end yet so maybe i'll like it more once i'm finished watching, as is often the case.
I Love Jim Carrey
#3844 posted by RickyT23 [86.25.6.61] on 2011/01/25 03:50:52
All his stuff. The Truman Show is proof that he can actually act, without always having to be OTT. But yeah - beautiful movie.
Watched No Country for Old Men. That was kinda arty.
Human Traffic is good, and it reminds me too of going out and getting completely fucked up on Ecstasy. But allas, those days are gone. Which makes a large portion of the movie seem trashy. Having said that there are some awesome scenes. Peter fucking Andre!?? Yeeah - I'd like to get a fuckin' coathanger, and fuckin RAM it down his fuckin japseye....
Anyone else put Forrest Gump in the top 5?
The Green Hornet - enjoyable. Kinda like The Dark Knight meets Pineapple Express.
Kona
#3845 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/01/25 04:16:50
interesting because I think Catherine Deneuve puts in one of the all time great performances :)
Also, as for reasoning behind her character, all you get is the final shot really (which I personally think is enough but your thoughts may vary). The rest is upto you.
As for Jim Carrey, I forgive him for all his crap for doing Eternal Sunshine and Trumans Show (although the latter really works because of Peter Weir).
Repulsion
#3846 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/25 22:51:42
Watched it all Nitin. Yeah the final shot was good and explained a lot, although they should have ONLY shown it at the end instead of the other couple times in the film.
All the little things symbolising her descent and sexuality were good. I'm not a big fan of, not necessarily slow movies, but slow camera shots. At the same time I hate that blockbusters have to have big entertaining scenes every 3mins, but watching the camera pan from a cushion to rug for 30secs just annoys me. It's too artsy and film schooly.
I suppose it makes sense in this movie, it was supposed to be slow like that.
Anyway I certainly didn't hate the movie, but I didn't love it either. Eraserhead and Persona were better crazy movies.
Yeah
#3847 posted by nitin [202.161.17.140] on 2011/01/26 03:59:34
fair enough, I dont mind slow stuff (movie or camera shots) provided they obviously serve a purpose (which as you say in this movie was more for mood rather than anything else). If done right, I dont consider something like that film schooly (although its definitely artsy but I dont consider that a criticism).
Anyway, I always like to hear why people dont like particular movies (or vice versa) so keep them coming.
The Elephant Man
#3848 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/27 06:56:40
Just watched another classic that you love Nitin - The Elephant Man. First time I've seen this one.
Lovely film (much better than Repulsion), but I am Lynch-biased. The b&w and old fashioned looking film quality was really well done, as were the film sets depicting 19th century London. The part where Treeves wife started balling and, of course, the train station scene were very moving.
My only criticism was John Hurts piss poor acting in portraying someone your supposed to sympathise and feel sorry for. In particular, the voice was waaaaaay too sympathetic and forced; he sounded like a character out of sesame street. But that's a minor criticism - still a brilliant film.
What did you love about it so much? PS what are your top 2 films?
John Hurt
#3849 posted by nitin [124.148.179.247] on 2011/01/27 13:28:37
I didnt mind him as much as you but this is really Anthony Hopkins' film IMHO (Hurt gets the showier part obviously). Him and Anne Bancroft have some great scenes.
What did I like about it...some of Lynch's weird touches despite it not being his normal type of film (eg the elephant 'rape' scene at the start), but most of all the look, the writing and the performances were on the whole on a very very high level and you can tell everyone involved was generally on the same page.
Top 2 films - The Godfather and Chinatown.
Also
#3850 posted by nitin [124.148.179.247] on 2011/01/27 14:36:33
I thought I read somewhere that the voice was a pretty good imitation of the real person. Could be wrong about that but I do remember that from somewhere.
#3851 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/01/27 23:00:34
Yeah Anthony Hopkins is the role that makes the film really. He was good. I typically don't like him that much, he does too many of the same role these days - usually the king or some gruff leader. You can't have a fantasy or historic epic without Hopkins playing the dad!
Chinatown is on my to watch list very soon as well :)
And yeah I liked the Lynchian stuff too. I also liked the quickcuts at the end of some scenes. They don't do that in movies anymore.
French Connection
#3852 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2011/01/27 23:41:48
just rewatched it. man, what an awesome movie. can you guys recommend similar stuff?
Uhh
#3853 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/01/28 03:42:03
French Connection 2, not on the same level but I still think its a good film.
As for Hopkins, out of what I have seen to date, his three best performances are Elephant Man, Remains of the Day and Silence of the Lambs. Out of recent stuff, he is very good in The World's Fastest Indian (the mvoie's well worthw atching too).
Heh
#3854 posted by Tronyn [205.200.202.157] on 2011/01/28 04:21:17
while we're interviewing you Nitin, why Godfather and not Godfather II? I know everyone always says yeah it's the only sequel that's better blah blah... but I really do find it superior in every way that the first one was good (although it obviously depends on the first one, so that's an argument for the first one).
Tronyn
#3855 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/01/28 07:08:56
it's like splitting hairs. One's a 9.5, the other's a 10 in my book. One's my favorite film, the other would be somewhere in the top 10 :)
I personally prefer GF1 because I found it to have a slightly higher number of more memorable scenes (the opening wedding scene, the horse in the bed scene, the gun in the restuarant scene, the cross cutting godfather scene, the sonny at the toll booth scene, and the final scene).
GF2 is definitely themtically and structurally more complex though, but I think it also becomes marginally more detached and colder in the process. I dont think I had as strong a reaction throughout GF2 as I did at the end of GF1 when Michael closes the door on Kaye.
Have either one playing though and I'll gladly sit through it no matter when I walk in :)
The Fighter
#3856 posted by RickyT23 [86.25.6.61] on 2011/01/29 01:09:32
Walberg and Bale. Brilliant. Massive Oscar potential. I love the film. Spoiler:
The fact that the point of the movie is the part where Walberg's character gives Bale a real hiding and earns his respect. Done with sheer finesse, I tell you. <end spoiler>
Bate for shap
Fighter Was Quite Good
#3857 posted by nitin [124.148.149.116] on 2011/01/29 02:25:47
saw it a couple of days ago. Melissa Leo and her family were scary.
#3858 posted by Spirit [80.171.154.211] on 2011/01/30 21:59:37
Lord of War
Bleh. Huge disappointment. Awful script or whatever was at fault for making it boring, pretentious and stupid.
Love the soundtrack though, got that for ages.
Princess Bride
#3859 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/01/30 22:07:18
Yeah pretty good. Funny in parts, 80s vibe, fine characters (Inigo Montoya should have had his own spin off movie/book/whatever.) Nothing terribly ... ehhh amazing about the movie really, but overall just really well done.
Oh I Forgot
#3860 posted by Spirit [80.171.154.211] on 2011/01/30 22:21:15
Watched Tangled (Rapunzel for us Germans) yesterday. Without the annoying singing and the overly barbieish looks and most importantly better story telling or less weird "hops" it would have been a great animation movie. But even so it had some hilarious scenes and was a feel-good film. A bit too girly for sure (surprise!).
Watched Red
#3861 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/01/30 23:19:05
It was alright. There were some parts in the beginning where the actress playing sarah had her try hard pants up to her chesticles. Overall it was pretty damn funny.
#3862 posted by mwh [202.124.96.158] on 2011/01/30 23:24:30
Red was pretty fun, yeah. Would have been a good plane movie.
Enjoyed The King's Speech too.
Off to see Black Swan tonight.
#3863 posted by Spirit [80.171.27.66] on 2011/02/05 11:35:38
Everything is a remix part 2 focuses on movies, check it out: http://vimeo.com/19447662
Be aware that it is cut in a very weird way right in the middle, it does not end early but continues!
Also I am currently rewatching American Pie 1-3 and loving them.
Not Really Worth The Time, Imho
#3864 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2011/02/05 13:35:10
Social Network
#3865 posted by nitin [202.161.22.128] on 2011/02/07 04:04:14
cant be arsed with a proper review but this is the most impressed I've been with dialogue in a modern film for a very long time.
Are You Paying Attention?
#3866 posted by rj [82.13.31.251] on 2011/02/07 18:42:42
i read somewhere the opening scene (where mark splits up with his girlfriend) took 99 takes to get right. i can believe it too
The Green Hornet
#3867 posted by mwh [202.124.96.158] on 2011/02/07 23:47:47
Oh my word. Nothing about this film makes any sense on any level. I wasn't expecting it to be good, but I wasn't expecting it to be this bad.
Oh Yeah
#3868 posted by mwh [202.124.96.158] on 2011/02/07 23:52:20
Also saw Black Swan. That was very much better. The last half hour is just crazy, everyone walks out of the cinema in a daze.
Kermode's instant reaction (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK... was about how I felt (with less film references)
Let's Try That Again
#3869 posted by mwh [202.124.96.158] on 2011/02/07 23:52:49
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKR...
What Didn't Make Sense?
#3870 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/02/07 23:53:26
I thought it made sense.
Nothing!
#3871 posted by mwh [64.255.180.232] on 2011/02/08 20:27:06
the casting, the "3D", the plot, the dialogue, the character interactions, the fact that no-one apparently read the script and told them "this is garbage" - no really, nothing made sense.
I admit the end - where they were driving half a car around the top floor of an office block whilst being shot at with rocket launchers - was quite funny, but it didn't make sense.
I Think You're Just Being Grouchy
#3872 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/02/08 20:50:09
Superman didn't make sense either, but i don't hear anyone complaining about it.
The Social Network
#3873 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.242.119] on 2011/02/08 21:35:53
Enjoyed this movie. Fast paced and intelligent. Made me stay up till 4:00am, working on computer! ;)
Chinatown
#3874 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/02/09 01:13:00
I watched Chinatown Nitin. Took me a fortnight over 3 sittings... I was a bit disappointed in it.
The soundtrack is great, Nicholson's acting is great; although he does come off as a bit of an arrogant slob with his low energy, but that's how he is in all his movies and he was at his best here.
Good cinematography and sets. I wish there was more of Chinatown... The ending scene as the camera moved up across the Chinatown street was awesome. Chinatown seemed to be an entire subplot with a lot of history that was never even explained. I was waiting the entire movie for the Chinatown plot to suddenly unveal. But it never did. What on earth was the movie named Chinatown for when it's an unimportant part of his past? Maybe I missed something...
The mystery and pacing of the story was all good. The thing I think I didn't really like was the plot just wasn't that epic. For one of the greatest Film Noir's of all time, I was expecting something better than "someones stealing water to make themselves rich... and a dude was killed to cover it up". And there was never really a proper conclusion to it... instead the cops are blaming the wrong person for the murder, ignore the water conspiracy completely, then shoot the wrong person in the fkn head. End story.
Is the sequel any good?
#3875 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/02/09 01:16:13
Ok I get the Chinatown title now. Meant to suggest no matter what he does, he can't succeed in this case. Just like in Chinatown. meh.
Good Noirs:
#3876 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [86.175.224.237] on 2011/02/09 01:26:46
Double Indemnity is good (widely considered one of the best, though I prefer others) Great script, some fun lines in it ("I hired you because I thought you were smarter than the others...you're not smarter, just a little taller").
The Big Heat is a cracker (features a loathsome Lee Marvin)
But the two best are:
Sunset boulevard. Really creepy and weird. The female lead is mental.
Kiss Me Deadly. Brilliant film, very dark and dirty, which builds nicely on cold war paranoia resulting in a crazy ending. Oh and the main character is called Mike Hammer, how can you not watch it now?
Serious, watch those two films :p
#3877 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [86.175.224.237] on 2011/02/09 01:27:56
Sunset Boulevard is also the original source of a large amount of cliche lines "I'm ready for my close up now" for example.
Kona
#3878 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/02/09 02:29:45
personally I consider Chinatown to have the greatest script of all time but it's not remotely because of the plot. Casablanca is probably a close second and the same applies to that.
I guess I dont rate plot/story as highly as a lot of people. To me its all about the details, characters and the interactions within the story/plot that makes things interesting. And Chinatown (and Casablanca) has plenty of that I think.
The sequel actually makes for a good comparison, it has a much better plot but the exectuion of the movie and the script is severely lacking (Nicholson is no Polanski and Robert Towne seems to be a one hit wonder).
Also
#3879 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/02/09 02:31:55
if you like Film Noirs, zqf has listed some essential ones (DI probably has one of the best dialogue scripts of all time IMHO).
Although I would replace The Big Heat with Out of the Past. Or The Killers. Or The Killing.
Also
#3880 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/02/09 02:34:04
I think Faye Dunaway's performance in Chinatown is quite unerrated. Although it takes a second viewing to fully appreciate it IMHO.
#3881 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [86.175.224.237] on 2011/02/09 03:13:02
When you say The Killers, do you mean the 60s version with Lee Marvin and Ronald Reagan? :p
Since I keep mentioning him, I'll also mention Point Blank, very stylish film with Marvin again, not quite a classic but good fun, and remade by Mel 'Stop Giving this man work' Gibson as Payback, which is fucking awful.
"Lawl if we desaturate it it'll be all colourless, like a noir, yeah!!!! Can we get on with my torture scene now... hurt me hurt me hurt me yeaaah"
He was in the remake of Edge of Darkness too. Bet that was fucking awful and missed the point as well...
/rant.
Zqf
#3882 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/02/09 04:30:34
nah the 1947 version with Burt Lancaster and Ava Gardner. The 60's version is ok but the 47 one is a great film.
Point Blank is cool, I agree it's not a great film, but very entertaining. Havent seen Payback so cannot comment on that although I think a few people posted a while back and quite enjoyed it.
#3883 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/02/10 00:25:45
Didn't realise Payback was a remake. I thought it was a great film for your violent crime-action. It's not what you'd consider a classic, but your typical 90s popcorn action for guys in their 20s. In fact it's one of my favourite Mel Gibson movies.
Apparently Sunset Blvd is on my seen list, but I don't think I have seen it so i'll have to give it a watch.
I've seen The Killing (in fact i've seen everything Kubrick) which was good. Great ending. Chinatown owned it though.
I'm not that big on film noir, but probably The Maltese Falcon is my fav of the ones i've seen.
0h
#3884 posted by meTch [99.51.247.114] on 2011/02/10 05:13:21
tyime to watch 'If...'
#3885 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.193] on 2011/02/10 08:38:49
Do not miss Key Largo!
Nice Stuff
#3886 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2011/02/10 11:00:24
Although i'm one of the guys who loved payback ;-)
True Grit
#3887 posted by nitin [124.168.93.75] on 2011/02/10 11:09:06
not in the same league as No Country for Old Men, but its still blood good and the dialogue is killer.
Paranormal Activity 2
#3888 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.242.119] on 2011/02/11 03:36:24
OK, I saw a review of this a while ago, and it basically made out that this sequel was stale and only for hard-core fans of the first film. Personally I found this film quite jarring. It scared the crap out of me. Paranormal Activity 2 is quite disturbing, but in a relatively sophisticated way. I love the way the film has zero music. The silence is just deafening. You can hear where they have purposefully increased the sound of the static to highlight weird noises, but on other occasions there are weird noises which have not had their volume increased. The effect of this is that you are never sure when something might happen which could be frightening. Swear to god this movie gave me chills. I have memories of nightmares I had when I was a small child, and the film has underlying themes which play on that. Haven't been this scared by a film for a long time. Very high marks/10
PA2
#3889 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/02/11 17:40:18
based on that review i'm going to download it. if it turns out to be shit then i shall place a gypsy curse on you ricky. you have been warned!
Ok, Watched It..
#3890 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/02/14 00:49:02
i don't get it.
so.. it's a prequel. the sister is the woman from the first film.. except she is killed at the end of that so i'm not sure when the ending of this film is supposed to have taken place; during the events of the first film when she is first possessed? if so what happened to the kid and why did the events carry on happening?
and the part where the kid sister shouts something like "she's christy's sister, you can't do that to her"... what is the husband doing? deflecting the demon onto her or something? if so how.. and how does that fit with the supposed motives of whatever it is that's haunting them?
i did kind of like the first film. it was something different, relatively straightforward and pretty creepy. but this one, as i feared would be the case, doesn't really tread new ground and is spoilt by too many characters, hamfisted exposition and a pretty lame climax which would have been more at home in buffy the vampire slayer (monster-faced demons and crosses? seriously?)
the suspense was very good, however. sometimes the scariest moments come when you expect something to happen and are poised to deal with the next 'jump'.. only for nothing to happen. something about the way that was done felt genuinely creepy.
verdict: it's left me bit disappointed but not like i've wasted my time on it. worth watching for the suspense but don't expect a classic
OK
#3891 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.242.119] on 2011/02/14 01:10:46
Glad it made you jump :)
There is a part right at the end of the first movie where the girl isn't seen for quite a while, before she comes up the stairs and sits at the side of the bed.
PA2
#3892 posted by negke [88.70.75.49] on 2011/02/14 01:16:50
Pretty much exactly like the first one. Silyl 'twist'. Pointless sequel as so often. They should have kept the original ending of the first one (where Katie gets shot by the cops).
While I'm At It
#3893 posted by negke [88.70.75.49] on 2011/02/14 01:23:47
Let Me In: another pointless remake as expected. Fuels my stereotypes about the American movie industry and audiences. It's by no means a bad movie, and the actors actually look better than in the Swedish original, the vampire girl anyway, but the remake is 95% the exact same movie/plot etc. They only changed the face-acid scene and cut the crotch shot. Even the visual theme was much alike and not distinctively American.
So, what's the point???
She Is Off Camera For Hours
#3894 posted by RickyT23 [86.31.242.119] on 2011/02/14 01:34:20
before she comes back up the stairs and sits at the side of the bed. Then she sits there for another day before the cops come in ans shoot her. It ties in.
Negke
#3895 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/02/14 01:37:23
its in english which means more people will see it, most likely those who didnt see the original version. To them, the sameyness doesnt matter.
I'm actually interested in seeing this despite what I've read about it.
#3896 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/02/14 01:53:40
Seen the original Let The Right One In, but not the remake yet. I think the 2 actors in the Swede version were great. She looked perfect for the role, and the boy looked good as well. Definitely memorable characters, I really doubt the American remake will improve in that area. Still I haven't seen it yet so we'll see.
The pacing of the original is quite slow, this could definitely be improved in the remake.
Cut the crotch shot? WTF? That's an important scene!
The original certainly isn't a movie for the masses. Most popcorn viewers will think it's boring crap. It doesn't seem to have a set target market, unlike ALL the American horrors. So in this respect if they wanted to make any money from it in America, it sort of had to be remade. Still... sounds like it's hardly been changed from the original. Nice one Hollywood on a pointless remake.
#3897 posted by negke [88.70.75.49] on 2011/02/14 01:56:32
Ricky: No, because in the theatrical ending she comes back up the stairs, throws her husband's body at the camera and then looks at it in a 'boohoo to be continued' kind of way. Her appearance in the second movie is set after these events.
nitin: Absolutely. But why not simply dub it then? I get the point (and probably also that dubbing might not be as 'popular' or wide-spread in the US); however, to me it always has a negative connotation, like a disrespect for the original authors/producers.
#3898 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.88.58] on 2011/02/14 03:57:40
nm all this tot. Atlas Shrugged the movie! Your excuse for being a selfish asshole now in visual form!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6W0...
Looks like a low-budget Dan Brown adaption to me :p Also apparently the director was replaced with a week odd to go before shooting. Pretty impressive.
#3899 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/02/14 04:11:47
I like the comment "I wish I was fucking dead" with 16 upvotes :D
Negke
#3900 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/02/14 04:51:11
personally I would prefer a remake to dubbing, they just sound awful to me. That's assuming subs arent an option though.
kona, pacing was a key to establishing the mood in this movie though.
Agora
#3901 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/02/14 05:04:39
not a total success, but nice to see an ancient period-piece that isn't totally mindless, and also nice to see a film taking an anti-religion, pro-science point of view. the distant shots of the feuding city are great. rachel weisz' performance is good too. this movie had a lot more potential, and they leave too much unresolved (is it about her, about the library, about the city?) but overall worth watching.
Easy Rider
#3902 posted by nitin [220.235.34.47] on 2011/02/14 13:47:41
tell you what, it's not a great film, but it sure as hell has something about it that is very memorable.
Flawed? Quite a bit. Brilliant? Quite a bit.
Off To See
#3903 posted by nitin [220.235.34.47] on 2011/02/14 13:48:29
127 Hours tomorrow, looking forward to that.
Agora I've been meaning to get, Amenabar makes few films and I'm a big fan of The Others.
Yes
#3904 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.60.161] on 2011/02/14 18:14:35
The Others is amazing. One of the coolest thrillers I have seen, and the twist is very nicely pulled off. I didn't know anything about the film when I saw it and was completely surprised (yeah I know).
The Others?
#3905 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/02/15 02:25:13
With Nicole Kidman? R U SRS? That movie was abysmal, the twist was lame, the story was boring, etc etc. Agree to disagree.
Yeah That One
#3906 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/02/15 03:35:29
The Others
#3907 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/02/15 03:52:19
I thought the atmosphere was quite good, the scene with the little kid as the old creature was very creepy, BUT the ending was predictable, and given the subject matter and the ending it reminded me a little bit of m night shamylan, who I hate more than any other director. I'm getting slightly angry even thinking of him now. What an asshole. He is to film what Deepak Chopra is to... well, whatever it is Chopra claims he is doing.
I Liked It
#3908 posted by Drew [65.94.65.153] on 2011/02/15 04:02:27
Novelty regarding the twist was a non issue to me considering how well wrought the whole thing was - the classy and non-violent type of horror. I'd say the orphanage also falls into this classy ghost mansion category as well, though there is some gore in that one.
agreed about he who should not be making films. I'm constantly amazed though, by how many huge, legitimately skilled actors have been in his films over the years.
Orphanage
#3909 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/02/15 06:39:28
didnt like that one, although not sure why right now.
As for Shymalan, the Sixth Sense was good and parts of Unbreakable and Signs were good. I actually think he's quite a skilful director, especially for suspense, but he just needs to stop writing. Get him someone else's script and I think he would do a pretty good job.
#3910 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/02/15 07:28:20
6th Sense, Unbreakable and Signs WERE all good movies, although The 6th Sense wasn't really as great as everyone made it out to be. Remove the cheap twist, and you've got a movie that no one would have wasted their money on. Lady in the Water and The Village were crap.
Then he did The Happening which I actually enjoyed. Haven't lowered myself to seeing The Last Airbender.
I'm not a big fan of his either, the plagiarism is quite obvious.
The Orphanage was decent. Didn't predict the ending twist.
Shyamalan
#3911 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.41.199] on 2011/02/15 09:19:20
I agree that he is very pretentious, but I really loved Signs, being a crop circle fan. I thought that 6th Sense and The Village were decent and his other movies were crap, esp. The Happening, which was one of the worst movies I have seen so far.
Under No Circumstances Watch The Last Airbender
#3912 posted by mwh [121.73.77.183] on 2011/02/15 10:01:43
Otherwise only seen sixth sense I think, was good but over-hyped.
I Saw The Last Airbender
#3913 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.217.189] on 2011/02/15 10:03:58
And yeah - its sucks.
Unbreakable
#3914 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/02/15 11:20:08
was a bag of balls. it actually went beyond sucking and into the realms of severely pissing me off and and sending me into a tronyn-esque rant mode ;)
as for his other films i agree with sleepy, i liked signs (disregarding the terrible ending) and thought sixth sense & village were alright, but not a fan of his other stuff. i actually thought the others was one of his too prior to reading the above :Z
Yeah
#3915 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.41.199] on 2011/02/15 11:23:28
Unbreakable made me angry too, it was so goddamn pretentious! Look everyone; this the new movie of the wunderkind! What an asshole.
Huh
#3916 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2011/02/15 12:14:21
I like all of his movies, especially unbreakable! ;-)
Signs and Lady from the Water took a second watch to appreciate them, though. And Village sucked for everyone who had been watching the trailers and went into the movie expecting something horrorish.
I think he really excels at portraying the characters. His movies, and Signs in particular, are character portraits before anything else, or at least I see them as that (and enjoy them greatly).
I guess the movies suck if they don't succeed in making you care for the characters, but well, that's the nature of character heavy plots, isn't it?
Let Me Explain That Better
#3917 posted by megaman [91.66.119.75] on 2011/02/15 12:20:19
They all are movies that have protagonists defunct in one way or the other; what makes them interesting is how they show the way these characters interact and react to the world around them (and why), and that good (or particularly evil, e.g. in The Village or Unbreakable) can come from their defunct reactions. In that way, his movies seem to care deeply for all of their characters, even the evil ones.
I don't think his movies have a message more focused on one particular thing, like "meaning of life" or something like that. At the very least, I choose to ignore it ;-)
#3918 posted by Spirit [82.113.106.198] on 2011/02/15 12:30:52
It's no news that you like pretentious artsy stuff.
It's Not Artsy
#3919 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.41.199] on 2011/02/15 13:05:15
It's pretending to be artsy. And his characters really aren't very deep, are they? I like Signs because it is suspenseful and is about an Alien Invasion / End of the World scenario, and I always like that. I also like that it tells the story of an apocalypse (or prevention thereof) from the perspective of a small family that lives way off the map in some rural area. It's a cool idea.
Hey I Like Pretentious Artsy Stuff
#3920 posted by nitin [220.235.34.47] on 2011/02/15 13:27:35
but as sleepy says, I think he thinks they're artier than they actually are (well the scripts anyway).
But I still stand by his skill as a director, particularly a suspense director.
The plot of Unbreakable is balls, the rest I actually quite like.
Orphanage.
#3921 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.242] on 2011/02/15 16:33:45
Rocks. Great ghost story. Continually creepy and intriguing. Like the way "good vs bad" pans out, or not as the case may be.
Orphanage.
#3922 posted by Drew [65.92.21.49] on 2011/02/16 07:32:37
I get where Nitin is coming from - there is something approaching sterility in the movie... something like, working too hard to fit the 'classy ghost mansion horror' tag I labelled it with, maybe?
Still, I own it, like it.
Hate the village. Ham fisted.
Signs was okay, but yeah, the ending - those endings... also, hate his cameo in that movie.
also, was thinking of this today
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLM...
Oh I Own It Too
#3923 posted by nitin [220.235.34.47] on 2011/02/16 10:14:03
it has good parts :)
Trying too hard might be what I was annoyed with, I honestly cant remember (I could check my func review but cant be arsed right now).
Btw, for those that like The Others, The Innocents is worth a watch. I prefer Others but your mileage may vary. Innocents definitely looks classier and is a very good film.
Haha
#3924 posted by Drew [65.92.21.49] on 2011/02/16 19:18:29
yeah now that I think about it I think I kind of talked it down earlier in this thread...
C.H.U.D
#3925 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/02/16 21:39:43
Speaking of 80s slasher crap, anyone seen C.H.U.D.? Its been on my wanted list for a while but I can't find it anywhere. Is it any good?
Kona
#3926 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.252] on 2011/02/16 21:52:05
cinemageddon
Youtube
#3927 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2011/02/16 21:53:47
That's where I saw it.
Good cheesy horror vibe, really bad dénouement (awful foreign accent mark added for czg's sake.)
Also
#3928 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2011/02/16 21:57:19
czg is this your channel?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4r7...
Persepolis
#3929 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/02/17 05:19:36
Saw this movie tonight, was pretty damn beautiful. I'm not generally one for artsy foreign movies about the growing pains of a young girl, but I must say this was excellent.
Westerners have no problems compared to little Iranian girls =/
Yeah I Liked That Movie.
#3930 posted by metlslime [67.188.81.46] on 2011/02/17 08:52:18
Zwiffle
#3931 posted by nitin [220.235.34.47] on 2011/02/17 10:34:56
Waltz with Bashir makes a good companion piece even though they are nothing alike.
#3932 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [86.175.224.155] on 2011/02/17 13:38:07
Waltz With Bashir is fucking amazing. Incredible concept too.
The Battle of Algiers is a must watch for everyone btw. Won't real off a load of stuff about it just read the wikipedia article :)
The Battle of Algiers (film)
Battle Of Algiers
#3933 posted by nitin [220.235.34.47] on 2011/02/17 13:59:32
is one of the greatest films of all time. Need to see it again, might pull it out this weekend.
And Speaking Of Companion Pieces
#3934 posted by nitin [220.235.34.47] on 2011/02/17 14:01:24
Salvatore Giuliano would probably make a good one with Algiers. Might try it :)
Winter's Bone
#3935 posted by nitin [202.161.20.58] on 2011/02/19 03:36:29
I think Tronyn mentioned this earlier, good film for sure and I dont think I'll forget that chainsaw scene in a hurry.
Hell Yeah
#3936 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/02/20 09:21:42
I'd cry too. jesus. that's a totally different view of the south - I don't imagine it that way now, but maybe in the 30s or something. anyway john hawkes and jennifer lawrence led an amazing cast. it was convincing, however real it might or might not be.
#3937 posted by Spirit [80.171.84.18] on 2011/02/20 09:46:57
Little Fockers: rubbish.
Tronyn
#3938 posted by nitin [220.235.43.69] on 2011/02/20 11:40:24
its based on a book from someone who lives in the Ozarks. I'd say there's a good chance it's happening right now.
Devil's Backbone.
#3939 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.242] on 2011/02/20 12:35:58
Pretty good.
Predators
#3940 posted by DaZ [92.26.160.169] on 2011/02/20 23:09:54
haha, it was pretty good I thought. Really got the 80's vibe just right, and there are so many references and plain rips from Predator that you just give up trying to take it too seriously after the first 30 minutes or so, which works out in its favour I think ;)
Lead guy wasn't terribly good as the "Arnie type" and his gravel voice sounded very forced, but the other cast members were pretty good.
Nice fighting, etc.
Basicly, its a gung-ho, 80's action film, don't watch it expecting anything more!
Predators.
#3941 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.242] on 2011/02/20 23:18:31
Rubbish on many levels. Easily could have been good with an ounce of coherence. But wasn't. IMo.
#3942 posted by Spirit [80.171.145.179] on 2011/02/25 23:09:08
Heat
Amazing movie but gur raqvat ehvarq vg sbe zr. Gung jnf qrcerffvat. Vg phg unir orra phg jura gurl jrer qevivat qbja gur ebnq, orsber Arvy jnf fnlvat gung ur unq gb gnxr pner bs fbzrguvat. Gung jbhyq unir orra n avpr srry tbbq raqvat. Ohg abbbb, jr ner n zbeny zbivr, jr xvyy gur(?) onq(?) thl. Tnu! >:(
That Made It Go From A 10/10 To 8/10 For Me.
#3943 posted by Spirit [80.171.145.179] on 2011/02/25 23:09:32
Nice music.
Uhm
#3944 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/02/25 23:20:00
is there a translator i can use for that?
Rot13.com
#3945 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2011/02/25 23:22:44
That Sort Of Ending
#3946 posted by nitin [124.148.147.108] on 2011/02/26 00:35:28
would have ruined it for me. I think it ended as was hinted at throughout the movie.
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo
#3947 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/02/26 02:49:24
Was great.
North Face
#3948 posted by nitin [124.148.165.14] on 2011/02/26 03:58:43
insane mountain climbing film set in pre-wwII germany. Crazy stuff and I'm amazed at how the pulled off the visuals, did not look like much CGI at all.
North Face
#3949 posted by megaman [88.66.16.151] on 2011/02/26 11:54:19
I thought it was very, very obvious that much of it is filmed in studio, and the outside shots looked rather disconnected from the movie, as if they'd just taken shots from documentaries that looked nice.
All in all it's a typical bad German movie, imho. The acting, the directing, the lighting, everything has that typical low-budget "we don't even try" German vibe to it :(
3-4/10 from me ;-)
Nitin
#3950 posted by Spirit [80.171.40.140] on 2011/02/26 12:01:51
for me the movie hinted at "they will change, everything will work out" for me. Wishful thinking maybe. Neil would have quit before the job but was loyal to his partners so he was becoming "good".
Megaman
#3951 posted by nitin [202.161.26.254] on 2011/02/26 12:03:13
that's interesting because I saw it on blu ray and apart from a few matte shots, it didnt look like studio shooting.
And whilst the writing could have used work, I thought it was pretty good.
Spirit
#3952 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/02/26 12:29:58
i thought the fact chris got away played a large part in creating a positive ending.
i agree with nitin re: neil though, after the conversation in the restaurant it wouldn't have seemed right if they'd all changed their ways and lived happily ever after. whilst the end scene wasn't happy, i found it more poignant than depressing
excellent film in all, right up there with the best crime thrillers
I've Also Realised..
#3953 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/02/27 20:27:31
...that i need more fun stupid brainless comedy type films for hangover viewing. do people have any favourites in this category? or at the very least recommend any that aren't completely shit? my favs from the past few years are probably superbad, the hangover & waiting
Comedy Suggestions
#3954 posted by ionous [75.67.189.47] on 2011/02/27 20:29:17
Over the past few years, I've vastly enjoyed both 'Little Miss Sunshine' and 'I Heart Huckabees'.
Could Try These
#3955 posted by meTch [99.58.205.164] on 2011/02/27 21:00:54
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt091093...
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt123158...
They're similar to The Hangover and Superbad... at least from what I hear as I've never seen The Hangover or Superbad.
Both Excellent
#3956 posted by RickyT23 [86.25.13.241] on 2011/02/27 21:54:01
Pinapple Express is a bit more slapstick, but not by much. Due date is actually quite touching.
I'd give 'em both 8. Maybe 9 and 8 respectively.
#3957 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/02/27 23:20:13
have seen both of those. well, i saw the first 30 minutes of due date and turned off, didn't get what was supposed to be funny about it at all :S i remember pineapple being quite fun though, may watch again sometime
interesting huckabees got a mention as i only saw that a couple of nights ago. some interesting ideas but it all felt a bit pointless and directionless (maybe that was intentional given the theme) and it just seemed to forget to be funny amidst all the pseudo-intellectual psycho babble. i can see why people like it, but not for me. will check little miss sunshine out though as i've heard a few good reviews about that :)
Pineapple Express
#3958 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/02/28 00:44:47
is worth it for first half.
Hot Fuzz fits the hangover bill (not the movie, the condition).
Sucker Punch Looks Pretty Fun...
#3959 posted by pjw [96.42.24.247] on 2011/02/28 06:02:31
...in a ridiculously over-the-top kinda way.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dz...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrI...
Shell Shock
#3960 posted by RickyT23 [86.25.13.241] on 2011/03/03 04:13:12
Colin Farrel. Excruciatingly well done. Bawled at end.
Almost Any Wes Anderson Movie
#3961 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/03 05:54:37
Haven't seen Bottle Rocket, but every other movie he's done. I think he's a pretty damn fine director, even though his movies all have eerily similar characters and settings, they feel pretty different from each other.
Love them all so far, probably tied for favorite are Fantastic Mr Fox and Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, both are top notch.
Royal Tenenbaums
#3962 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/03/03 06:58:24
Rushmore, and Darjeeling for me. The rest are ok too.
I Was Pretty Let Down By Mr Fox
#3963 posted by Drew [70.53.224.153] on 2011/03/03 16:43:58
I was so stoked for that but it was pretty meh, really.
#3964 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2011/03/04 00:15:53
You have to be difficult, don't you nitin?
Always :)
#3965 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/03/04 00:57:27
although I think this time I was being less difficult then usual?
The Girl Who Kicked The Hornets' Nest
#3966 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/03/04 01:22:36
Was great. Nice ending, too.
Speaking About Hornets...
#3967 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.96.4] on 2011/03/04 12:33:37
Marble Hornets is a very well done (ongoing) horror series on Youtube. It's creepy, meandering and unsettling, and there's absolutely no shitty gore, screamers, or little girls with overly long hair.
#3968 posted by Spirit [82.113.106.200] on 2011/03/06 00:51:49
Date night (2010)
Thoroughly enjoyed it. Light-hearted comedy. Car sequence was a bit meh. Steve carell owns.
Asphalt Jungle/The Killing
#3969 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/07 03:36:27
Two old timey (1950, 1956) Noir movies about heists - which inevitably result in all of the robbers getting killed or arrested. Both are pretty good but as you probably could guess feel 85% the same.
I have to lean toward Asphalt Jungle as the better movie - not necessarily because it was overall better, but because how the final robber in The Killing gets caught feels like a lame twist of fate instead of a realistic ending (spoiler: A locked suitcase falls off of a baggage cart on a runway, busting open and all the money inside spilling out in a tornado of wealth) against the police hunting down the criminals except the final one, who dies in a field from a bullet wound. (/spoiler)
I just preferred Asphalt Jungle's ending to The Killing's, but otherwise they're both excellent noir heist flicks.
That's A Great Double
#3970 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/03/07 04:18:21
I prefer The Killing myself, slightly more tense IMHO, but Asphalt has some great characteriations.
Omg Nitin
#3971 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/07 04:18:55
SO difficult!
Switchblade Romance & Hellraiser
#3972 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/03/07 04:23:38
Why do so many horror fans wank on about Switchblade Romance/High Tension?
All it really was is your typical baddie enters house and series of "high tension" scenes where she hides from said baddie, then decides to save her friend but goes about it in the most stupid ways instead of just walking up behind baddie and stabbing him in the fucking neck. And then <spoiler> it turns into a split personality thing where she was the baddie the whole time which rips the entire movie to pieces since most of the scenes never actually took place.
I was expecting more, but I guess having seen Piranha just weeks before, from the same director, I shouldn't have expected horror greatness.
Oh I have been watching the Hellraiser series too. The first movie was good, #2 was fantastic. Up to #3 next, but accidentally saw #6 ahead of time because of incorrect numbering on the Korean dvds. But #6 (Hellseeker) was fucking shit and had nothing to do with the Hellraiser series at all.
Also
#3973 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/07 04:26:53
Halloween 3 had nothing to do with the Halloween series, but worth the look if you like really cheesy horror. I mean like so bad you would show your kids so they could get a good laugh kind of horror.
Not Really Film, But Cheers Season 5
#3974 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/07 05:42:28
<@Zwiffle> omg Sam and Diane you guys :(
* @Zwiffle just watched Cheers Season 5 finale
<@Zwiffle> i am heartbroken, mainly because i have a beer with each episode of cheers i watch, and i watched the last ~7 episodes of season 5 in a row
High Tension
#3975 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/03/07 07:17:24
is great until the last 10 min IMHO. Sure it is nothing new, but for what it is in that period, it is very well made. Or at least I thought so.
Zwiffle
#3976 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/03/07 07:17:48
just playing my role man...
Hellraiser
#3977 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/03/07 07:37:24
I'm not sure if I would still like the Hellraiser movies as much as I did when I saw them initially, but I actually thought Hellraisers 1, 2, 3, 4 (bloodline) and 5 (the weird detective one) were all actually quite good. 3 was the weakest. 4 and 5 introduced new enough concepts to get some mileage out of it. probably the most successful slasher franchise in keeping things actually interesting. nevertheless, I did not bother to watch any more as I felt like that would be pushing it.
I Own HR 1
#3978 posted by Drew [70.53.224.153] on 2011/03/07 22:19:06
is 2 actually decent? 1 is pretty gay in some parts by modern standards.
love haute tension. Hate the ending, should have just stuck with it.
I do prefer his Hills Have Eyes though.
I Preferred 2
#3979 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/03/08 00:08:08
not seen any of the others. as i recall (it's been 10 years or so since i've seen either) 2 had less of a plot than the first, but was darker and more twisted, mostly taking place in the underworld. the hellish set designs were both inspiring and genuinely quite disturbing; i'd recommend it to any quake fan for that ;)
Hellraiser 3
#3980 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/03/08 01:40:11
Yeah I liked 2 because they were actually in hell this time, and the setpeices, while budget, had great atmosphere.
Watched #3 last night and while I liked that pinhead was in it much more, they also ruined his character and turned him into a gimmicky, maniacal Freddy Kruger instead of the mysterious demon in the shadows. And the new Cenobites were ludicrous. Still, it wasn't far off the first movie despite the flaws, because the first one hardly featured the Cenobites at all, which sucked. Maybe #4 tonight :)
OK You've Convinced Me
#3981 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/08 01:45:03
To watch the HellRaiser movies.
I'll Watch #2.
#3982 posted by Drew [70.53.224.153] on 2011/03/08 02:01:46
but that's it.
I saw #6 when I was a kid. fuck that shit.
Pirate Radio
#3983 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/08 04:10:52
Yeah it was alright, seemed to lack emotion of any real sort, more like a very generic "Here's a series of events that happened in chronological order" kind of thing. Which isn't to say it was bad. Just not terribly engaging.
Overall I would give it like a 6.5/10 I guess?
The Adjustment Bureau
#3984 posted by starbuck [75.16.27.70] on 2011/03/10 22:29:34
The Adjustment Bureau
It's a sci-fi Matt Damon romance, being advertised as a Bourne film. Said Bureau want Matt Damon's life to progress in a certain way, and his urge to bang Emily Blunt contravenes this plan. He is not happy with their attempts to cockblock him. Chemistry is pretty great between the two leads due to Matt Damon clearly cheating on his wife.
The quasi-religious/sci-fi big reveal "this is how the world really is, forget what you know about history" is absolutely cringe, oh my word. Generally this film holds together like a house of cards, and there are plot holes you could fit Rosanne Barr through. Overall it's completely stupid, but really quite enjoyable regardless.
Unknown
#3985 posted by starbuck [75.16.27.70] on 2011/03/10 22:39:23
Unknown
Liam Neeson is a biologist attending a conference. He has an accident, and when he wakes, no one recognises him and some dude has taken his place. What a dick!
Well if The Adjustment Bureau holds together like a house of cards, imagine making those cards out of jelly and then fuck it, throw them out the window, and you're getting close to the plot cohesion and general sturdy nature of the premise of Unknown.
My major questions after watching this were "What?" and also "how is it possible to make Liam Neeson act this badly?". I wish I could go into proper detail without spoiling the plot.
Overall..... kinda enjoyable? I guess? Action scenes pretty good. Acting and script generally pretty bad. If you want a Liam Neeson face-punching experience then Wanted is better.
And Several Hours Later
#3986 posted by starbuck [75.16.27.70] on 2011/03/11 00:14:58
remembered i mean "Taken is better". Still not great though.
If Taken
#3987 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/03/11 01:35:55
is "better", Unknown cantbe much of a movie. thought Taken was pretty average.
I Liked Taken
#3988 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/03/11 02:02:20
it got straight to the point and didn't mess around. watched it for the second time recently and enjoyed it every bit as much; admittedly no classic but great for what it is, to coin an old cliché...
too late for proper reviews so a few short comments on what i've seen recently:
127 hours (2010) - full marks to boyle for making a decent film out of this. gripping (...)
mystic river (2003) - brilliant acting, plot and atmosphere. ending went on a bit too long though
tropic thunder (2009) - hangover material. i err.. fell asleep, so can't comment
dead man's shoes (2004) - awesome gritty english low budget revenge thriller, recommended!
dark city (2004) - how was this not a massive hit a la matrix? can only assume a lack of keanu. the 'strangers' were a bit cheesy, but otherwise loved it
Er
#3989 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/03/11 02:03:03
dark city from 1998 obviously
#3990 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.120] on 2011/03/11 04:22:41
Dark City was advertised really badly. Partly because they tried to sell it as a horror movie rather than a mystery thing.
Beats the pants out of the Matrix really. The fantastical elements allow it's plot to make a lot more sense. Plus the idea of the 'One' makes a lot more sense too. And kicks a lot more ass.
Yeah
#3991 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/03/11 05:09:11
it's still one of my favourite movies. atmospheric as hell. would make a good quake map. nice vaguely lovecraftian scenario, theme of memory, vitalism, personality, etc.
I Remember
#3992 posted by Drew [70.53.224.153] on 2011/03/11 05:10:59
thinking DC was great when it came out (I was 13), and watching it recently and feeling like it aged sort of badly. very nineties, sort of obvious, way goofier than I remembered.
Strangers were the worst.
Definitely would have been much better if they'd REALLY made the 'strangers' more strange, more unfathomable, and without a giant evil layer with a metal head in it.
similar to the matrix - I find it decent but overpraised. Like the ending very much though.
#3993 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/03/11 06:03:36
the new DC of Dark City is a better movie.
As for Taken, I was disappointed. The action was generic and unimpressive, too much jerkiness and handheld camera nonsense. The rest was forgettable. I suppose it was shot well (apart from the action) and Neeson was decent.
On another note, I really enjoyed the new A Team movie, wasnt expecting that but found it to be a lot of fun.
Unthinkable
#3994 posted by Baker [66.82.9.80] on 2011/03/11 08:26:26
9/10 Samuel L. Jackson. Was supposed to be a big name release in threatres but got caught up in some sort of legal snafu. Most of you will be uncomfortable with the subject matter --- do you torture a guy who has 3 nuclear bombs set to go off? What about kill his wife? One life to save millions? Interesting social commentary.
The Taken. It was good. You got what you expected ... Liam Neeson improbably handles several unlikely situations, but that's what you want to see. A feel good action movie.
Pirate Radio was some imaginary lefty movie of "how it wasn't". Reminded me of the MTV-made "Around the World" movie where 60's hippies were all great looking young men, instead of very average looking 1960's people with bad teeth (a la Austin Powers). I'm not saying Pirate Radio was bad ... it was "ok", but certainly revisionist history with over-top significance of something that likely really wasn't.
#3995 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.120] on 2011/03/11 14:17:46
A feel good action movie
Taken made me feel quite sick actually. Count how many times the fucking wanker leaves girls who don't happen to be his precious american daughter to fucking die or continue being raped.
Or when he shoots the perfectly fucking innocent wife of the corrupt policeman.
His character is a completely immoral twat.
Did have to laugh at the set up though "omg don't go to Europe, it's full of criminals" :p
#3996 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/03/11 14:21:40
<quote>kill his wife to save millions</quote>
The answer: no.
I Thought Taken Was A Good Movie
#3997 posted by RickyT23 [86.139.217.189] on 2011/03/11 14:40:07
An excellent movie even (though not as good as The Man From Nowhere).
But I agree with ZQF about Neeson's character doing a lot of immoral stuff. He is ruthless in his actions throughout. Still that element of the movie was realistic - anyone who seriously would consider attempting to go against organised crime syndicates of the most heinous kind on their own would have to be prepared to do immoral things.
It Was Better Than
#3998 posted by nitin [124.148.176.156] on 2011/03/11 14:45:11
Man on Fire, which was just trash.
Actually
#3999 posted by nitin [124.148.176.156] on 2011/03/11 14:45:32
the first 45 min of that were good, then trash.
Yeah
#4000 posted by Drew [174.89.237.142] on 2011/03/11 16:16:02
what the fuck was that?
I was blown away by how suddenly that movie became terrible.
#4001 posted by rj [128.243.253.116] on 2011/03/11 17:03:45
Taken made me feel quite sick actually. Count how many times the fucking wanker leaves girls who don't happen to be his precious american daughter to fucking die or continue being raped.
...
His character is a completely immoral twat.
it's about desperate father going to whatever lengths necessary to try and save his daughter (ie. part of his immediate family, not some random american girl) before the window closes. ignoring the fact he actually rescued another one of the girls during the quest, i'm struggling to see how choosing not to do the same for every single girl in the film is remotely immoral?
shooting the wife i can agree with but you're way off on the first point!
#4002 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.120] on 2011/03/11 17:11:22
I'd accept the point if his character was, say, the main character in Children of Men. ie a realistic human being.
But he's not, he's a badass super killing machine with "special skills". The main character in Deathwish is more upstanding :p
I'm With
#4003 posted by nitin [124.148.176.156] on 2011/03/12 01:23:25
zqf on the (im)morality, not that it bothered me that much at all since I wasnt expecting much else from Luc Besson.
But at least it didnt try to be moral like Man on Fire which was all the more worse for it.
There Will Be Blood
#4004 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/13 20:14:22
A bit late on this, but I thought it was good. I preferred No Country for Old Men a bit more, mainly because I actually got a bit of meaning from it. This movie, as far as I can tell, seems to be about an asshole oil tycoon who goes bonkers and destroys his life and the lives of the people around him. Not sure if there's a message that I'm missing or if it's just kind of a bummer of a story.
At the very least, the production was top notch and the shots were very well done. Score was great too.
Zwiffle
#4005 posted by nitin [124.148.176.156] on 2011/03/14 02:10:16
the main theme IMHO was the similarities between capitalism and religion and their willing to exploit the weak.
Couple Of Quick Ones
#4006 posted by nitin [124.168.84.137] on 2011/03/16 01:55:39
Valhalla Rising
This will be one person's pretentious bore and another person's masterpiece. I personally found it to be more towards the latter, a hypnotically shot and scored, but largely plotless and wordless, film which feels like a Terence Malick take on the viking movie but with dosages of Herzog thrown in. Moments of brutal action, but they are few and far between.
Centurion
Is this really made by the same guy that made The Descent (or even Dog Soldiers)? Terribly written and with extreme OTT action that's so cartoony and with so much dodgy looking CGI blood, that you have to wonder whether anyone actually saw the final cut before release. Only saving grace is some stunning shots of the Scottish highlands.
I Loved There Will Be Blood
#4007 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/03/16 02:13:39
didn't enjoy it quite as much as No Country For Old Men, but it's kind of apples and oranges, though the overlap in bleak setting/bleak message does beg some comparisons.
I loved the portrayal of the main character losing his mind, one of the most alone characters I've seen on film. His rage at the preacher seemed to be based on the idea that whereas he sold something real, using lies, the preacher sold only lies. In other words, Plainview was offended that his hard work and dark genius which exploited stupidity, could be interfered with by someone who was neither brilliant nor hardworking, but simply exploited stupidity.
VR
#4008 posted by Drew [65.94.65.54] on 2011/03/16 02:20:37
Looking forward to that one! Not sure how that's gonna go - really don't get why all the fucking tuff people I know loved Bronson so much - super mediocre... not that it has much to do with VH, I guess
Hope to see it soon. As well as Black Death - looks nice and grim, and Triangle was totally not bad at all.
Nitin, any other good films on that 'bleak, depressing medieval horror-eque' tip?
Drew
#4009 posted by nitin [124.168.84.137] on 2011/03/16 03:14:10
going to get Black Death for sure, looks interesting.
Other medieval stuff, I take it you've seen Name of the Rose, not that bleak but very good medieval type thriller/horror.
Apocalypto too although that's more medieval action. Also, even though it's a bit of a mess, Brotherhood of the Wolf.
And havent seen Bronson although was considering it after VH. Not good?
Black Death.
#4010 posted by Shambler [86.25.167.253] on 2011/03/16 09:33:55
Tedious bollox. Pointless, badly put together, incoherent waste of a decent premise.
NOTR is a favourite.
#4011 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.200] on 2011/03/16 11:16:18
Nerd of the rings?
NOTR
#4012 posted by Drew [65.94.65.54] on 2011/03/16 14:09:16
been a while, I was like, a kid. I might have to re watch that, actually, I barely remember it!
8 1/2
#4013 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/03/17 01:24:16
I've been saving up 8 1/2 for years on my must watch list, assuming when I did it'll hit my top 20 list. What a disappointment.
It wasn't a bad film, in fact i'd probably say it's good. But certainly not an all time classic.
The dialogue was just rambling and often seemed to be seeping in it's own ego with it's exotic wording that weren't even of much relevance.
The plot itself was a great idea for a movie, but it fell a little flat and ended up being boring. And it's because it really didn't go anywhere. Where is the fantasy and surrealism depicting his state of mind? Instead we're left with a carnival show at the end where everyones dancing and in white. Anyone could have done that in their back yard with 30 actors... it's certainly not brilliant cinematography and film sets. The suicide scene following his dream sequence was a great idea, but I believe it should have been made clear the he killed himself. As it is, it seems more likely that the actual movie ended at the press conference and the suicide and carnival scene was just his fantasy.
What I did love about this movie was the acting and characters. The female characters in particular were all great, absolutely nothing dull there. Some weren't the best actors, but it was great in the same way as females in anime entertain - in that exaggerated, childlike way. Guido's character was well done as well, but at times seemed to lack something. A personality, perhaps.
I did like the film score though.
Probably give it a 7/10 overall.
Kona
#4014 posted by nitin [124.168.200.68] on 2011/03/17 01:37:04
I felt the same, I actually think you need to know about Fellini's life to really appreciate the film which shouldnt be a criterion (it's mainly autobiographical).
I did think it was brilliantly shot though.
#4015 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/03/17 01:40:37
did you love any of fellini's other films, nitin?
Havent "loved" Any Of Them
#4016 posted by nitin [124.168.200.68] on 2011/03/17 02:14:20
but quite liked I Vitelloni, The Nights of Cabiria, La Strada and Il Bidone.
La Dolce Vita I found to be in the same category as 8 1/2.
Going by my understanding of your tastes, I would recommend I Vitelloni and Il Bidone.
#4017 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/03/17 03:58:41
Hehe I don't even understand my own tastes. I'll probably watch all those above eventually though
#4018 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.112] on 2011/03/18 17:02:37
Fellini is an acquired taste I guess. I thought 8 1/2 was brilliant.
Zqf
#4019 posted by nitin [124.168.200.68] on 2011/03/19 07:57:57
do you own many movies? If so, do you have a list up anywhere? Would love to check it out. Our tastes seem to be generally similar.
#4020 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.112] on 2011/03/19 18:36:59
Not really I'm afraid. A friend of mine who is really into films used to run a cinema society at my uni. That's where I first saw Battle of Algiers, Stalker, Three Colours trilogy and stuff like that.
For fun we also used to have a semi-regular noir night too, since it was a reliable way to have a great film but a bit more casual and relaxing :p
I can always ask him to suggest a list for you. He's seen waaaaay more than I have.
Machete
#4021 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/19 20:26:55
For those who don't live in the USA or know about that whole Mexican border bullshit, basically this whole movie is based around the issue of illegal immigration, which is a pretty hot topic in America today. Why? Because Americans are stupid or something.
Anyway, the movie itself isn't RR's best work. It's not as fun as Planet Terror, and I don't think it carries that well in the long run like Planet Terror does. Even though it IS fun, and there are lots of tits and action scenes and gore and wacky bits, it just seems to drag near the end imo. Still, worth a look, but obviously I would prefer Planet Terror over Machete.
Also, no Alba/Michelle/Lohan makeout scene. Disappointing, but not unexpected.
Yeah...
#4022 posted by metlslime [67.188.81.46] on 2011/03/19 21:27:42
i just watched Machete too... agree with zwiffle's review; it's entertaining at certain moments but overall kind of weak.
I Thought
#4023 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/03/19 22:04:13
that Taken was a pretty good portrayal of CIA-type stuff: be really self-righteous, totally amoral, totally selfish, totally self-contradictory, totally ruthless, and the average American thinks you are a "morally admirable" "badass"
#4024 posted by Spirit [80.171.29.217] on 2011/03/19 22:28:43
Yesterday: Dinner with Schmucks
Laughed so hard, highly recommended if you like Steve Carell. Rest of cast were fillers. So many great scenes. 9/10!
Today: Sex Drive
I really can't stand Clark Duke. Weird and rather bad movie. Could have been great if they either went full comedy or fully serious. Too many stupid things. Guess I am far from the target audience.
#4025 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/03/20 00:39:46
there's a director's cut of sex drive... although i'm not sure if it's actually called that. it's probably the most ridiculous comedy i've ever seen, and it knows it too, which makes it rather fun. although i spent most of the movie salivating over amanda crew so can't really comment too much on the finer points
Zqf
#4026 posted by nitin [124.168.200.68] on 2011/03/20 03:01:25
no dont worry about that, just thought I would browse through if you had a list handy. Mine's here if you're interested:
http://nitin.dvdaf.com
#4027 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.112] on 2011/03/20 03:37:45
Nice collection :) I should start watching stuff regularly again :E
Generation Kill
#4028 posted by nitin [124.168.200.68] on 2011/03/24 07:05:06
well this is quite possibly scarier than The Wire but its just as compelling and worthwhile. I am not sure I could have handled more than 7 episodes, 7 alone got me quite angry.
Sucker Punch
#4029 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/03/26 05:25:45
Bleh. Fappable, though.
#4030 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [81.141.94.34] on 2011/03/26 08:12:09
We have most of the internet for that...
The Adjustment Bureau.
#4031 posted by Shambler [86.16.219.51] on 2011/03/27 21:01:59
Great, really enjoyable, good balance of being nice and watchable and intriguing too. Some speechs made me smile too. Ending was weak and soppy though and the concept doesn't bear to deeper scrutiny.
Elise was very good and I utterly adored her in the early scenes.
#4032 posted by Spirit [80.171.20.14] on 2011/03/27 21:16:50
I am looking for forward to seeing that. Also Rango is high on my list.
BSG
#4033 posted by nitin [124.168.200.68] on 2011/03/29 16:01:54
finally started this, only through episode one of the mini series and I can already tell this will be great stuff!
Oh My
#4034 posted by DaZ [92.26.171.183] on 2011/03/29 16:14:14
You are in for a treat =)
Favourite tv show of all time!
I Liked The Miniseries And The First 1.5 Seasons
#4035 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/03/29 16:59:31
but after that it turned into gimmick of the week, seems like. I never finished season 2 maybe sometime I'll go back to it.
caprica seemed to show some promise with the terrorism/mafia/fbi/scifi/forthcom... doom angle, but it was cancelled. too different from BSG I guess. plus some of the female characters were a bit annoying.
Tronyn Has A Point
#4036 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.118.127] on 2011/03/29 17:11:30
But it got a lot better towards the end of season two and the first half of season three is awesome awesome stuff. Then it remained awesome until season four, which is meandering a lot.
But all in all I have to agree with DaZ, it's my fave show of all time. It kept me on the edge of my seat like no other show, and it has had moments that literally made me jumpt out of my seat and go "YEAH" as well as moments that made me sad. It makes you care about the characters a lot.
BSG
#4037 posted by Bal [217.109.75.97] on 2011/03/29 18:02:58
Is great, but only because there are so few good Scifi shows really... Still, definitely worth watching.
Tronym, Caprica? Seriously? It was horrible from the first few seconds of the opening, I don't know why I even watched the whole first season... Wasn't surprised in the least that it was canceled.
The BSG guys tried starting some other show called Virtuality at one point after BSG finished (the pilot is findable online). Was a bit early to say, but I quite liked it, seemed interesting, I'm sad it never went any further than that. :(
Caprica
#4038 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.157.75] on 2011/03/29 22:17:46
was really boring, unfortunately. The basic concept was interesting, but not very well executed. There is going to be a prequel show called "Blood and Chrome" however that is more like BSG and tells the story of the first Cylon war from the perspective of young Adama. Could be cool.
Monsters
#4039 posted by Bal [217.109.75.97] on 2011/03/31 12:03:06
Finally got around to watching this, I can see why people compare it to District 9, but it's a very different movie, I quite enjoyed it.
It's far from perfect, you can feel that it was a pretty small budget, and kind of put together hap-hazardously, but it really clicked with me, the atmosphere was very absorbing.
At times it reminded me bits of exploration in Half Life, Stalker, and even Fallout.
P.S. : tentacle porn.
Yeah
#4040 posted by nitin [124.168.110.25] on 2011/03/31 13:21:34
saw it a few weeks ago, I quite liked it too.
Great mood IMHO. The leads had decent chemistry as well.
#4041 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/03/31 14:22:09
You had me at tentacle porn.
Monsters
#4042 posted by starbuck [108.74.160.78] on 2011/03/31 20:42:48
It felt like a movie about people on their gap year, but with Cthuhlhu hanging out in the background. I really liked it, really natural dialogue, seems like a lot was ad-libbed.
#4043 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/03/31 22:27:53
Watched A Fistful of Dollars 2 nights ago. I don't usually like westerns much - the remake of Seven Samurai was enough to put my off, but this was an excellent movie! Although by todays standards it would probably be considered your typical popcorn blockbuster. Surprised it's not in the top 250.
Working my way through Battle of Algiers. Can usually only watch 30mins at a time so it's taking a bunch of sittings.
Kona
#4044 posted by nitin [124.168.110.25] on 2011/03/31 23:34:41
the next 2, For a few Dollars More and The Good, the Bad & The Ugly are even better IMHO.
why 30 min sittings?
#4045 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/01 02:33:48
Oh those are sequels! I just thought they were more westerns with Clinty. I'll have to get those now then.
Why 30min sittings... hmmm I guess it's just not enthralling enough.
Gl With 30 Min Sittings Through The Good The Bad And The Ugly
#4046 posted by meTch [99.37.16.180] on 2011/04/01 03:08:55
that movies like 3 and a half hours, but it's awesome the whole way through making it my one and only favorite western.
No Not Sequels
#4047 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/04/01 05:15:06
clint just plays the same character in them and they are all made by Sergio Leone in a similar style.
ok, so the 30 min reference was for Algiers only, not some restriction on how you're watching stuff. Must say if you have to do that to a movie, you're not really going to like it whether you stop halfway or finish.
#4048 posted by Spirit [82.113.106.199] on 2011/04/01 11:06:10
And don't miss Once upon a time in the west. That one is my favourite of them all.
Yep Agree
#4049 posted by nitin [124.168.110.25] on 2011/04/01 12:28:03
I already have my order placed for the upcoming blu ray of that one, cant wait to get my hands on it.
Still Have To See Call Of Cthulhu But
#4050 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/02 14:35:09
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd5...
#4051 posted by Spirit [80.171.53.166] on 2011/04/02 22:19:38
Finally watched Scott Pilgrim and loved it.
Also watched The Recruit, that one ultimately sucked. Which is sad because it had great moments.
Zwiffle
#4052 posted by Bal [83.204.198.16] on 2011/04/02 22:34:04
Meh... that looks quite poor, nothing like anything I ever imagined while reading HPL anyways, the acting feels quite wrong, and everything seems overdone.
Well
#4053 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/02 22:51:22
It is done by an amateur group of HPL enthusiasts with practically no budget. Their motto is 'we thought it would be fun' after all or something like that.
Monsters
#4054 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/03 00:40:30
Watched Monsters last night. Was okay - I liked the film sets and atmosphere, despite the screwed up geography. It's supposed to be a romance at heart, which it completed and utterly failed at because the 2 lead characters really aren't that likable and have fuck all backstory. The ending was a complete 'wtf, that's it?'
But the monsters were cool.
The Battle Of Algiers
#4055 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/03 00:57:18
So it was definitely a good film. Probably in the top 250 greatest films made, but definitely not in the top 250 films I actually enjoyed watching and would watch again. It feels too much like a documentary of events than a story.
The biggest problem is there is no backstory of characters (apart from the 2 mins spent running through the supposed leads life) or explanation on the war.
Halfway through the movie I had to wiki this war because I really didn't know what this civil war was about. Sure I've heard of France and Algeria... but what's the war? Why are Algiers fighting French? Why are French in their country? The movie doesn't explain any of this, I guess it's assuming Europeans are the target audience and they already have learnt about this in history class.
The other problem with the movie is it's more of a documentary film. It doesn't follow traditional storytelling methods of building up characters, with very little time spent on who Ali La Pointe and Col. Mathieu really are and their personalities. I also wonder how much of this is true, when all the characters in the movie are fictional. I didn't really care that much when Ali was blown up.
What it does well is documenting the war in fantastic detail. I liked how it ended as well. It would have been wrong if they ended it just with the death of Ali La Pointe. Showing the uproar 2 years and final success of the Algiers was a great ending to the movie. I just feel I would have learnt more from a modern documentary on the Algerian war and more touched watching a fictional film.
True Grit
#4056 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/03 00:58:24
Just remembered I saw True Grit as well! Great film. Fucked up ending. The girl was a bit of an annoying little bitch.
Probably Coens most accomplished film, though not their most enjoyable.
I Didn't Find Her Annoying
#4057 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/04/03 01:12:47
Backstories
#4058 posted by nitin [124.168.110.25] on 2011/04/03 04:41:39
are overrated IMHO. In fact, its one of my main scripting gripes with modern day attempts at characterisation.
Re: Battle of Algiers, it is a french film kona, an explanation of the war for its intended audience would seem a bit condescending and patronising IMHO.
As for the girl in True Grit, I thought she was great.
Megamind/The Illusionist/Charade
#4059 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/03 05:02:28
Megamind - Better than expected, fantastic animation, cool bad guy vs bad guy storyline which I dig (I'm a big fan of bad guys.) Not a fan of the sound track, though I imagine Asaki might be, what with its AC/DC and whatnots. Pretty good, check it out.
My only 'complaint', which goes for a lot of animated cartoons nowadays, is that the female character is TOO GOD DAMN SEXY. I noticed this too in Batman The Animated Series, Animaniacs and especially Who Framed Roger Rabbit? - the females are too fucking sexy. These are cartoons, I'm unsure of the need to make the females unobtainably sexy. Probably the biggest factor in fucking up my sexual appetite is my childhood cartoons.
In Megamind, Tina Fey's character is thinly wasted, widely hipped, has a big bust and ass, looks great, and carries herself well. Too fucking hot. TOO HOT. Shame on you Dreamworks and other animation studios.
Anyway, its a good movie. Fun and whatnot.
Illusionist - My biggest complaints are related. The 'twist' is entirely predictable, not at all surprising. The explanation of said twist near the end doesn't explain the only thing I couldn't figure out for myself - mainly (spoiler!!!!!!) the summoning of the dead spirits. Explain that, and the movie is pretty good. Otherwise, I would consider it pretty cheap. Don't give me the excuse that they did explain it, because even when Paul Giamatti went on stage, he thought Eisenheim was real, when he wasn't. You don't get that with a film projector. I am awaiting the Prestige to compare how these films fair against each other. Not bad otherwise, but not amazing.
Also, not enough Biel boobery.
Charade - Kind of lame in the beginning, but picked up near the end. Still, not exactly what I was expecting. I wanted more noir The Killing kind of movie, but being a 60's noir movie it wasn't bad at all really.
Audrey Hepburn is indeed a fox. Walter Matthau is a good enough bad guy. Cary Grant makes a decent enough love interest/pseudo bad guy. Overall, not bad, but not as noirish as I wanted it to be.
Zwiffle
#4060 posted by nitin [124.168.110.25] on 2011/04/03 05:17:38
Prestige is much better IMHO.
And due, Charade is not a noir! Romantic comedy/thriller at best.
Oh God Yeah,
#4061 posted by Drew [70.49.68.188] on 2011/04/03 06:06:23
Illusionist sucks. Prestige is pretty fucking good.
re sexy characters - totally! But nothing new.. look at pocahontas, beauty and the beast, cinderella, snow white, basically all disney heroines - all super feminine and big breasted. And most disney heroines have been questioned for the fucked up gender politics they express which they engrain into the little kid consciousness (though little kid is a narrow time now - did you know the 'tween' category is 6-12?)
look up Mickey Mouse Monopoly - pretty interesting, though slightly skewed, documentary on this shit.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit
#4062 posted by nitin [124.168.110.25] on 2011/04/03 06:16:23
actually made sense though, given that was cartoon-noir.
Yeah
#4063 posted by Drew [70.49.68.188] on 2011/04/03 07:04:51
was gonna say that actually, takes it in a different direction. the problematic aspects of a femme fatale are pretty much her defining traits.
#4064 posted by mwh [121.73.77.183] on 2011/04/03 10:29:31
Sometimes I worry that Finding Nemo and similar films give a very inaccurate image of nature (i.e. that animals would just get along in -- a possibly divinely designed -- harmony without man), and other times I worry about being a killjoy...
#4065 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [188.220.248.12] on 2011/04/03 14:24:33
I watched the Animals of Farthing Wood as a kid.
Was hilariously bleak looking back at it. Still had a kiddy story about animals working together but it has a hilariously high body count as creatures get picked off left and right.
Probably messed me up a bit at the time tbh :p
#4066 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/03 14:40:40
Kids need to watch things like Animal Farm for an accurate representation of nature imo.
#4067 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.22] on 2011/04/03 14:57:08
Kids need not to sit infront of a screen but experience nature in reality imo.
++spirit
#4068 posted by jt_ [174.252.252.195] on 2011/04/03 16:54:09
#4069 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.22] on 2011/04/03 21:31:58
Dan in real life
Not a Steve Carell comedy as I expected it to be. Instead a very emotional sad happy love movie. It was quite nice! Music scenes were kinda annoying. Now where's that hanky.
True Grit
#4070 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/03 23:03:06
It's her pulling out threats of legal action and that sort of bullshit just because she isn't getting her way that made her a bit unlikable. And the whole negotiation with the horse trader was frustrating, I'd just tell her to get the fuck out of my store.
It was great acting though, the chick playing Mattie put in a great performance. I love the line at the end when she yells 'stand up tom chaney!' before she shoots him, you can hear the excitement in her voice.
I Loved The Horse Trading Scene
#4071 posted by nitin [124.168.110.25] on 2011/04/04 00:23:18
realisitic, probably not, but highly entertaining.
Did It Occur To Anyone
#4072 posted by megaman [88.66.18.213] on 2011/04/06 11:21:34
that the original was much, much better?
#4073 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.196] on 2011/04/06 13:27:46
I wonder about that. Mostly because I can't stand coen pretentiounism but a friend wants to see it. I thought it had not much to do with the old movie, just nicked its name?
True Grits
#4074 posted by generic [67.233.202.1] on 2011/04/06 13:42:30
The original version had more story at the beginning of it but tended toward the Disney side of things. The latest version had more story at the end of it and tended toward the darker side of things. I am not sure if the hanged man sequence was in the book but it felt very Coen ;)
The Original Wasn't Better
#4075 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/04/06 14:06:39
Bt then again, the jvalue judgements are highly subjective.
Megaman
#4076 posted by nitin [124.168.116.155] on 2011/04/06 15:58:37
no it most definitely was not.
71 Into The Fire
#4077 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/04/06 16:19:32
Excellent Korean war movie about some student soldiers fighting for South Korea in the Korean War. 9 out of 10 from me, very powerful, good resolve. Anyone here a fan of war movies? Watch this :)
Ricky
#4078 posted by nitin [124.168.116.155] on 2011/04/06 16:47:26
heard good things about that one although it got compared to Taekugki which I wasnt a huge fan of.
Well
#4079 posted by megaman [195.37.186.62] on 2011/04/06 17:28:29
I saw both versions directly after another, and in this scenario, the first one shat all over the new one. It might have to do with the audience knowing all about the story at that point and how easy it is to just concentrate on the differences between the movies...
but seriously, the old one was charming, laid back, with lots of western clichee style, but still not boring; the new one was just a freak show compared to that, everything felt so overdone and contrieved... it was kinda awful. Not a single moment did the characters feel realistic to me. The "kid" has (almost) no childish moments at all (the old movie is very strong in portraying her as a kid with certain strengths/strong will, in the new one she feels just like a bitchy old woman in a child's body), and the marshal cannot be taken seriously for a single moment, while in the old one it was quite interesting to see him balancing at the border between skilled and lousy, eventually failing.
Interesting enough, almost everyone i spoke to after that screening felt the same way. But yeah, I have to rewatch (because i have a lot of respect for the coen brothers).
Maybe your view is flawed because the old movie isn't commonly seen in cinemas?
Flawed?
#4080 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/04/06 17:37:06
My view can't be flawed, as whether or not i liked the old movie or the new movie more is a subjective value judgement.
Yeah
#4081 posted by Drew [132.205.103.120] on 2011/04/06 18:11:20
I think we can agree to be cinematically relevist here.
I haven't seen the new one - but I know a surprising amount of people who feel the remake was 'wrongheaded,' 'unnecessary,' etc. I think some negative feedback is coming from that typical thing with remakes - don't try to recapture the magic etc (which is not something I agree with at all but meh).
to sum up: everyone is right, and nobody is wrongm, ever. hahahaha
There's A Lot Of Nostalgia For The Old Film
#4082 posted by nitin [124.168.116.155] on 2011/04/07 00:26:12
for Wayne's oscar and I'm usually in the anti-remake camp, but I dont think the old one is even a good film (saw it first about 2-3 years ago), let along a better one in comparison.
Prestige
#4083 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/07 05:10:49
Not sure if I liked this one. It's good ol Nolan though, so it's got the atmosphere and quality you'd expect, but the secrets that get revealed, at least to me, seem hokey and downright Soap Operaish in nature. I will admit the little tells led me to think what I was supposed to, but the revelations of both magicians' tricks was pretty lame, it just kind of left me in disbelief.
I was expecting a more down-to-earth sort of show down, but instead got wacky cartoonish plot twists. I dunno. Other than that I was pretty into it.
Mein FÃ¼hrer, I Can Walk!
#4084 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/04/07 07:04:05
Dr. Strangelove was great.
There Cannot Be A Mine Shaft Gap
#4085 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/04/07 08:31:57
#4086 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/04/07 12:21:04
i liked the prestige twists - particularly jackman's character's - although i can see how some people wouldn't. i think it depends on how well you can suspend disbelief when it comes to the supernatural; there is part of me that wants to believe that stuff is actually possible and that tesla did actually achieve similarly crazy results before he went insane and died. his disappearance in the film - together with a lack of scientific explanation as to how the machine worked - imo did a good job in leaving things relatively shrouded in mystery, which i found much more satisfying than - for example - guy ritchie's sherlock holmes, where similar illusions of magic are all debunked and brought down to earth with a clatter.
actually watched it for the second time only a week or two ago, knowing the ending, and enjoyed it even more than i did the first time. has that typically excellent nolan feel but with a much more subtle, mysterious feel which made me prefer it to inception/batman movies
You Can't Fight In Here, This Is The War Room!
#4087 posted by mwh [121.73.77.183] on 2011/04/07 12:25:14
Probably my favourite movie ever :)
Strangelove
#4088 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/07 14:45:57
Yep, easily the best comedy of all time.
The Prestige
#4089 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.96.4] on 2011/04/07 17:06:37
is probably my favorite Nolan movie after Memento.
#4090 posted by Spirit [80.171.82.92] on 2011/04/09 23:00:08
Easy A
Incredible hot Emma Stone (if you like her type) in an incredibly dumb movie. Should have known by seeing the image alone, those kind of colours/setting usually mean one thing...
The American
#4091 posted by mwh [121.73.77.183] on 2011/04/10 09:20:19
Interesting, if amazingly badly marketed, movie. The blurb on the back of the DVD had me expecting a Bourne identity type thing, and while the plot is actually not that far from that type of film, everything else is utterly different. Well shot and well acted, but also quite cliched.
Source Code
#4092 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/04/11 06:02:20
Wow! What a headfuck. Totally loved it. 10/10. Must see.
Really?
#4093 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/04/11 06:05:00
Looked kinda dumb. I'll torrent it.
Yeah
#4094 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/04/11 07:53:39
not a huge fan of Moon (idea was good, execution was not) but will give this a shot.
BSG
#4095 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/04/11 07:55:44
about halfway through Season 1.
Still liking this quite a lot, but I wish they had retained the cinematic visual style of the miniseries (long tracking shots, strobing cameras etc) rather than the standard tv style adopted for the series proper (basically alternating close ups and establishing shots).
The Prestige.,
#4096 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.11] on 2011/04/11 17:02:43
Good film, great book. Great film if you haven't read the book.
More On Source Code:
#4097 posted by RickyT23 [86.138.199.157] on 2011/04/11 17:21:51
The only thing about the film really is the title. It doesn't have much to do with source code. Its does, but 'source code' is just a name for something else, which would probably be called 'quantum consciousness displacement process' or something really complex-sounding, so they just went for 'source code'. But the film itself is great!
Source Code (possible Spoilers)
#4098 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/04/11 19:51:07
i kind of enjoyed it but several things bugged me:
- the inventor was rather annoying and unconvincing, and his explanation of how (the inexplicably named) 'source code' worked was cringeworthy; not to mention completely at odds with the plot (and, indeed, general common sense). it isn't clear whether he actually believes that is how it is supposed to work or whether he is simply lying to colter, but neither really makes that much sense (there didn't seem a reason for him to be lying)
- the ending felt thrown-on. the freeze-frame seemed like the perfect point for the film to end at but it couldn't resist descending into hollywoodesque schmaltz after that point. it also (as alluded to above) makes a mockery of the initial explanation. granted, it makes some sense if you ignore everything about brain afterglows and 8-minute memory periods etc, and instead run with a standard time travel / multiverse theory (where you somehow return to the present / original universe whenever you die in one of the forked timelines) but it took me a while to get round to that. maybe it needs a second viewing
- no thought is given to the consequences of the ending; ie. how someone is simply able to slot into someone else's life in an alternate reality and live happily ever after. not to mention the moral side of things; at least when something similar happened in the thirteenth floor it's the bad guy who eventually loses out, whereas in this film, 'sean' is merely an innocent bystander, who either gets killed by the bomb or has his life taken over by colter depending on the timeline.. tough break!
still. there were some poignant touches and some entertaining groundhog day style moments. gyllenhall was decent too. not an awful film by any means providing you don't think about it too much
#4099 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/04/11 20:20:39
and speaking of alternate reality headfuck movies i recently saw eXistenZ (1999) (small e, capital x, capital zee). now that shit is fucked up. very squeamish in places but had a slightly offbeat feel which i loved, as well as working on several allegorical levels. ultimately very similar to the aforementioned thirteenth floor in terms of theme & plot (including obvious twist) but with a totally different feel and much better chemistry between the lead actors (sexiest lead character ever? discuss. and no i'm not talking about jude law)
i need to check out more cronenberg films.
also saw the machinist (2004). decent film ruined by a terribly out-of-place score - i read afterwards the screenwriter wanted trent reznor to do the music, which would have been awesome, but alas the director opted for some corny hitchcock imitation; just felt a bit wrong considering the film's grimy/industrial nature
Archer
#4100 posted by starbuck [108.74.160.78] on 2011/04/11 21:25:12
anyone else watching this? Loving it pretty hard - it's an animated comedy, kinda like Arrested Development meets James Bond being a dick to everyone.
Archer Is Awesome
#4101 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/04/11 21:31:04
I watched the first season on netflix the other day, hilarious.
#4102 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2011/04/11 21:32:43
Yes Archer is pretty great. I watch it on Hulu when they're posted. Makes me want to get into more of those Adult Swim style shows, I hear good things about Venture Bros, Super Jail is pretty fucked up, etc.
#4103 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/04/11 21:45:22
Venture bros. is great, i actually plan on buying the first four seasons. Superjail is fucking weird, but also funny. Same goes for squidbillies, athf, robot chicken, &c. They're all i watch anymore.
Rj
#4104 posted by nitin [124.148.166.24] on 2011/04/12 01:35:33
start with The Fly and then Videodrome for old school Cronenberg. Then follow up with A History of Violence and Eastern Promises and ask whether its still the same guy who made the latter two :)
#4105 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/12 06:47:08
Nitin... which do you prefer, his old horrors or his new dramas?
I Like Both Eras
#4106 posted by Drew [65.92.22.149] on 2011/04/12 07:01:17
Eastern Promises is great, as is anything with Jeff Golblum (The Fly).
I've still NEVER seen videodrome, which is crazy now that I think about it.
Kona
#4107 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/04/12 08:54:12
I like both. I think the last two are more mature works but his earlier stuff is more zany and provocative.
Zany And Provocative
#4108 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/04/12 08:56:11
in a good way though.
The Brood, for example, has some very interesting ideas. But something like Spider is a much more mature film.
Spider
#4109 posted by Drew [65.92.22.149] on 2011/04/12 15:02:10
I remember really not being into that. Mature, yes, but kind of boring and with a not-particularly interesting or surprising twist... maybe I'd feel differently now.
#4110 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/04/12 19:25:48
spider is the only other one i've seen. it struck me as the kind of film you'd write a university paper on, analysing it as a study into mental illness along with the bleakness/loneliness/confusion that surrounds it. well made in that respect but it had absolutely zero entertainment value
cheers for the recommendations nitin.. heard much about the fly but never given it a go
Spider
#4111 posted by nitin [124.148.166.24] on 2011/04/13 00:46:50
is very good IMHO, its obviously not a popcorn film but surely you dont expect that going in.
Well Obviously
#4112 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/04/13 14:05:52
but by entertainment value i don't necessarily mean popcorn factor - i didn't expect action, explosions, special effects and all that jazz - but it never really presented itself in a dramatised film format, i guess. i respect it for that as it sensitively captured the cold, bleak, depressing realism of the situation, but there just wasn't anything to [i]enjoy[/i] about it. that doesn't make it bad, obviously, and i did feel kind of better for having seen it but i wouldn't watch it again
Fair Enough
#4113 posted by nitin [124.148.166.24] on 2011/04/13 14:21:46
I guess 'enjoy' is subjective. The ones I suggested dont have this issue though so come back and post your thoughts!
Yeah,
#4114 posted by Drew [70.54.152.47] on 2011/04/13 17:14:53
Spider seems like a bit of an anomaly to me
Rabbits By David Lynch
#4115 posted by negke [88.70.60.240] on 2011/04/14 23:26:07
A short full of wtf, yet oddly mesmerizing.
Also Watched Following By Nolan Finally
#4116 posted by negke [88.70.60.240] on 2011/04/14 23:36:27
Not bad, a certain Hitchcock vibe.
#4117 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/14 23:58:02
Yeah it was very hitchcockian. Good twist as well.
Speaking Of Hitchcock
#4118 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2011/04/15 00:38:33
Just saw North by Northwest last night for the ~4th time. Still an awesome movie. Cary Grant is dreamy, no homo. Hitchcock is the man.
#4119 posted by Spirit [82.113.106.201] on 2011/04/17 22:26:18
Harry potter and the deathly hallows part one
Did not expect it to be this good. Did not remember much from the book. Actually mixed up the sixth with this. Fantastic work with the music. Sinister. I AM excited for the last one now!
I don't get how they think it us suitable for 12 year old (germany) though.
And I still wish I had never seen anything if it thus preserving everything as I imagined it when reading.
Also Recently Watched
#4120 posted by Spirit [82.113.106.201] on 2011/04/17 22:28:38
The 40 year old virgin
which was as empty and shallow as my bed.
It Was Supposed To Be A Comedy
#4121 posted by jt_ [174.252.251.154] on 2011/04/17 22:45:52
Yeah But It Wasnt Funny
#4122 posted by nitin [124.168.219.104] on 2011/04/18 00:35:49
(ducks for cover).
#4123 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/18 03:42:53
Steve Carrol sucks in the 40 yr old virgin. He just comes off as a wanker that doesn't deserve to lose his virginity.
Deathly Hallows P1, was good but I was expecting something a bit more epic. It just kind of ends. Definitely one where you need to watch part 1 and 2 together, because part 1 as a standalone movie really doesn't progress the story much. Never read the books myself.
Havent Liked Any HP Movies
#4124 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/04/18 04:41:33
except first and third.
Although
#4125 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/04/18 04:42:00
except for 4, none of them have been terrible, just ok. 4 was rubbish though IMHO.
Coming From An Admittedly Obsessive Fan
#4126 posted by ionous [75.67.189.47] on 2011/04/19 02:58:45
Who has even dabbled in writing for the fandom...
The movies have fucking sucked in general.
3 was the only genuinely good movie, with 7 p1 being at least watchable.
3:10 To Yuma
#4127 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/04/19 03:56:53
WOW! Perfect.
I Wouldnt Say Perfect
#4128 posted by nitin [203.202.43.54] on 2011/04/19 04:47:25
but pretty enjoyable and great action.
HP
#4129 posted by rj [128.243.253.103] on 2011/04/19 12:35:50
glad to see i'm not the only one in thinking 3 was the the best. i haven't minded the others, and have kind of enjoyed parts of them, but there has always been something stopping them from being fully enjoyable which i can't really put my finger on (coming from someone who hasn't read the books)
7 part 1 was ok.. more of the same really. i liked the scene when harry & hermione had that dance to the tune on the radio; that was probably the only point i actually had any feeling for the characters and was a nice break from the story. showed it had a bit of heart.
Other Quickies:
#4130 posted by rj [128.243.253.103] on 2011/04/19 13:20:31
fair game (2010) - this was almost in danger of feeling more like a documentary than a film but great performances from penn & watts ensured it didn't. pretty hard hitting, although i wasn't that familiar with the original story
hereafter (2010) - ok, if a little sappy, but i thought the french woman's story could have intertwined a little bit better with the other two. either that or taken out completely; it didn't really add much and i didn't buy how she just ended up with damon's character at the end. not one of eastwood's best
limitless (2011) - let down by the plot. loved everything else about it but it didn't really have a strong story pushing it all on, which seemed a shame. still very entertaining and worth the watch
london boulevard (2010) - pretty average cockney gangster flick that doesn't really go anywhere for half an hour, then gets really good and then ends really badly. i couldn't get used to farrell with that accent; ray winstone is brilliant though
little miss sunshine (2006) - loved this. such a feel-good factor, with great characters & hilarious ending, thanks to whoever recommended it a while back
being john malkovich (1999) - missed it when it was first out & avoided for a while because i wasn't really a fan of kaufman's more recent stuff (eternal sunshine, synecdoche) but this was superb - much funnier and less high-brow than i was expecting but still brilliantly made, can't pick any holes in it. the scene with JM inside his own head almost had me in tears! definitely up there with my favourite comedies
BJM Is Great
#4131 posted by nitin [124.168.219.104] on 2011/04/19 14:00:14
although I love almost everything Kaufman (havent seen Synecdoche yet but Eternal Sunshine is probably my film of the last decade and love Adaptation too).
On the other hand, I didnt like Little Miss Sunshine much at all, felt way too try hard indie and unconvincing to me.
Want to see Fair Game (Naomi Watts is my favorite working actress) and London Boulevard.
Love Kaufman
#4132 posted by Drew [65.92.162.95] on 2011/04/19 17:49:52
But Synecdoche is too much
Little Miss Sunshine
#4133 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/20 02:05:17
"felt way too try hard indie"
Yep that's exactly the problem with that film. I didn't see what all the fuss was about, it was boring.
Watched Predators and quite liked it. Many flaws and terrible cast but the homage to the original was good and it was nice to hear the original score again. Better than the Aliens vs Predator movies. I like Adrien Brody, but there's no comparison between him and Arnie.
Never Let Me Go
#4134 posted by Drew [65.92.162.95] on 2011/04/20 06:24:16
Liked the book quite a bit, this was okay, but definitely falls into the 'not as good as the book' camp - The movie didn't really conform to the text as well as it could have, I guess - an instance where things are overly condensed, simplifying characters and relationships between characters from the books to levels much more flat or whatever than in the source material. Despite the seemingly deliberate, carefully paced tone, this movie felt rushed, in a way.
Still pretty good though - some nice little microcosms and vignettes and generally pretty decent. A good exploration of 'othering'.
Also, was oddly distracted by the trio of actors playing the main roles, but that might just be me.
Little Miss Sunshine
#4135 posted by megaman [88.66.28.47] on 2011/04/20 09:33:03
Err
#4136 posted by megaman [88.66.28.47] on 2011/04/20 09:36:41
i agree
Hmm
#4137 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2011/04/20 17:18:55
Into the Wild.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt075875...
Thoroughly enjoyable film. Good characters and analogies for life/a better life. Suffers slightly from being a romanticisation of someone who was basically a bloody idiot, I thought the first 75% was amazing story (the more fictionalised bit), but the ending is somewhat undermined by their attempts to make an act of incredible stupidity seem noble. Still definitely worth watching and there is a nice element of melancholy to cap off the entire thing. Just think it would have made a better film if they had him walk off into the snowy 'sunset'...
I Couldnt Get Past That Personally
#4138 posted by nitin [124.168.219.104] on 2011/04/20 17:40:00
the deifying of (what at least came across to be) an idiot.
Although I know at least metl had a different take on the character.
Hmm...
#4139 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2011/04/20 19:34:08
Can't remember what I wrote exactly, but I think i agree with you guys about the character, but I disagree that the movie glorified him. I don't think it glorified him much. Seems to me that the movie painted him as being a troubled, misguided character whose self-righteousness was unjustified. Though it obviously sympathized with him as well, and celebrated his adventures for as long as they lasted.
Into The Wild
#4140 posted by mwh [121.90.105.101] on 2011/04/21 04:06:13
The book is interesting, especially if you have an interest in the outdoors. I should watch the movie...
The Man Who Knew Too Much
#4141 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/21 04:23:00
Hitchcock; innocuous family vacation turns into international political intrigue; rest of movie involves parents running around London trying to find their kidnapped child.
Not his best work imo, but it did bring the suspense in a couple key areas, and the very end was classy, but I just felt most of the movie was fairly drab and boring, and the political intrigue wasn't all that hot either.
I mean I'm not complaining, but compared to Hitch's best and most memorable works, this one comes off as fairly average. But that doesn't mean bad! I just want to make that clear. Just not :O kind of good.
Agree
#4142 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/04/21 06:17:10
enjoyable but not his best.
I also like the earlier 1934 version which is a bit nuttier but also a bit more creakier in execution.
Never Let Me Go
#4143 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/25 02:21:56
very good film but you can tell the source must be something special.
Would have benefited from an extra 1/2 hour IMHO and a different actress than Keira Knightley playing Ruth (who at least in the movie is not a particularly likeable character).
Still, Carey Mulligan knocks it out of the park (as does Andrew Garfield in the second half) and it has enough superb moments to work nevertheless.
Also
#4144 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/25 02:23:37
9 - Superb animation and concept art, plotting and characterisation are much weaker though.
Play it on a home theater system though and its pretty enjoyable and quite a spectacle, and its short length papers over most of the cracks.
6.5-7/10
NLMG
#4145 posted by Drew [174.89.241.242] on 2011/04/25 04:01:14
book is awesome
Source Code
#4146 posted by Drew [174.89.241.242] on 2011/04/25 04:58:45
perfectly decent but... enh
#4147 posted by Spirit [80.171.157.215] on 2011/04/25 21:57:53
The Sniper (1952)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt004516...
Dark, calm and very nice film about a women murderer. Great acting, good story. I thoroughly enjoyed it apart from gur ratvar juvpu jnf gbb noehcg sbe zr. Highly recommended if you think this might be something you could enjoy.
Rear Window
#4148 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/26 03:23:45
Yep, really good. A little better than when I was a kid because I got a lot more out of it than my first time through.
Spoiler
Although I'm not sure why Thorwald just kept his eyes open while Jimmy Stewart kept blasting him with bulbs. Or why he would stop to rub his eyes. Seems a little like a video game boss in that respect I suppose, but I admit it added the tension Hitchcock was going for.
Spirit\zwiffle
#4149 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/26 04:17:07
spirit,
I've been meaning to get that for ages along with Nightfall and The Lineup. Thanks for the reminder :)
Btw, a noir I saw recently that was enjoyable was Crime Wave, worth checking out.
Zwiffle,
Rear Window is awesome. Have you seen Notorious? Probably the second best Grant-Hitch collaboration behind North by Northwest.
Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas
#4150 posted by DaZ [78.147.153.101] on 2011/04/26 04:21:46
...What?
My brain, it fell out
I Love Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas
#4151 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/04/26 04:34:49
A film which illustrates why not to mix LSD and mescaline.
I Didnt Like It
#4152 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/26 04:53:53
although parts of it are hilarious.
Yeah
#4153 posted by Drew [70.49.70.185] on 2011/04/26 05:11:40
Another movie where, though I really like it, the book was simply better - and where the celebrity actors really distracted/detracted from everything else... not always of course - I really enjoy Benicio and johnny depp is far from terrible.
tbh the movie just reminds me of eating mushrooms and watching it in my friends basement, and being bummed out and bored because I just wanted to be outside.
Shambler
#4154 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/27 09:18:23
would like to hear your thoughts on why you found Black Death poor and unfulfilling.
Just finished it and although it had a few issues, overall I thought it was quite good.
BSG Season 1
#4155 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/27 14:41:53
finished it, loved it, great stuff.
Minor nitpicks, I hope they go somewhere with the Helo/Sharon storyline because every time they cut to that, it went down in quality.
Favorite characters so far, Baltar and Starbuck.
Hmm
#4156 posted by nonentity [188.223.82.21] on 2011/04/27 15:06:15
It gets better and better. Just suck up the filler in S2 (there's less of that in S3/4).
And yeh, Baltar is an amazing character.
Black Death.
#4157 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.11] on 2011/04/27 18:32:41
Can't remember clearly but it was definitely bad. Having watched The Orphanage the night before and liking gritty fantasy/medieval stuff it was disappointing. I vaguely remember it being wildly inconsistent, having a lot of loose threads, losing the sense of purpose fairly readily, not living up to the early potential, and possibly some naffness as well.
Nonentity
#4158 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/28 01:45:58
have the whole set so yeah definitely going to make my way through it all. Eventually :)
MOVIES
#4159 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2011/04/28 01:51:05
Hey, somehow I've been living in a hole, because Takashi Miike has a new samurai epic coming out this week (in the US) called 13 Assassins, which I hadn't even heard of before today, plus Hobo With A Shotgun is coming out next week, which I had been following but then forgotten about.
Metl
#4160 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/28 02:14:18
Movie tie in game!
http://hoboshotgungame.com/
Hobo
#4161 posted by Drew [132.205.103.22] on 2011/04/28 02:18:48
Loved it, it's like it was written by a really awesome 12 year old.
A Few Weeks Ago
#4162 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/28 10:00:12
I raved about the dialogue in The Social Network.
This morning I saw Sweet Smell of Success and the dialog in one of the last great film noirs makes Aaron Sorkin's brilliant script seem like an amateur effort.
Easily one of the all time great dialog scripts and combined with some of James Hong Wowe's best camerawork and two amazing performances from Burt Lancaster and Tony Curtis, this is cinematic magic.
9/10
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt005103...
#4163 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.202] on 2011/04/28 11:24:32
King's speech worth watching if you are not into historic drama?
Also... Game Of Thrones
#4164 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/04/28 11:31:14
yeah...
like
FUCK YEAH
in that context - sean bean, fuck yeah.
peter dinklage, also, fuck yeah.
and beyond that still, good yeah etc.
Oh Good
#4165 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/28 11:39:25
I really wanted that to be awesome. How many eps in is that?
My POV Is The Most Subjective Since I'm A Fan Of The Books
#4166 posted by Tronyn [205.200.193.7] on 2011/04/28 12:33:37
and it's only 2 episodes in
but the sheer idea of r-rated fantasy using castles as sets, and the plot of the books (christ, Stringer Bell or Tony Soprano would be fooled in this place)...
Its just (as they said in Braveheart) "a nestascheminbastads!"
Re: Asoiaf
#4167 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2011/04/28 18:45:44
i remember sighing in relief when reading these.
i had just finished the WoT series (up to where RJ died, not sanderson's stuff) and i was so relieved that the asoiaf series didn't have so many contrived bullshit things or cheesy characters.
honestly, it would take the tv guys a lot of effort to fuck this up. the books provide an excellent story and doing it as a series instead of a one off movie will give enough time to properly tell the story.
Game Of Thrones
#4168 posted by Bal [27.115.119.2] on 2011/04/29 02:26:03
Seems nice enough so far, quite faithful to the books. The first episode might be pretty confusing to people who haven't read it though, I know alot of people who missed some key points to it (mostly the family relations of people, for instance who the queen is, and who her brother is, etc).
Good work HBOoobs.
The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
#4169 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/30 01:49:43
Okay watched For a few Dollars More and The Good, the Bad & The Ugly. You're right nitin they are even better than the first.
The Good I'd put in my top 10 greatest movies. It was lacking that good vs evil that the previous 2 films had (Tuco wasn't a classic villain and angel eyes wasn't in the movie enough), and it was disappointing that Tuco (The Ugly) was the lead character rather than Blondie (Eastwood), even if that wasn't intended. More character building for Blondie was needed, rather than Tuco. Or maybe ditch the pointless (storywise) bridge blowup scene to give some more life and backstory to Blondie.
The other big flaw were the similarities it shares with the previous films in particular Eastwood's character (I cringed when he put the poncho on), even though they're completely unrelated films and different characters.
I kept thinking is this SUPPOSED to be a prequel or not (since it takes place 30 yrs before the other 2), and that's why angel eyes is rich in the second film??? But surely blondie will remember him... As good as angel eyes was, they should have used a different characters.
Anyway, minor flaws aside it's brilliant.
I enjoyed For a few Dollars More just as much, but it doesn't make the top 10 because it wasn't really as epic and unique.
Look forward Once upon a time...
#4170 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/04/30 01:53:13
Different actor for angel eyes, I mean.
It's like using Robert Patrick to play John Connor in T4. Just confusing.
#4171 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2011/04/30 02:49:13
i've heard those three films are sometimes called an unofficial trilogy. in retrospect, it would have been really cool if they had been. still, all excellent on their own.
Only Linked
#4172 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/30 03:36:17
thematically and stylistically with nods to the other films (like the poncho scene kona mentioned).
As for Blondie's character, IMHO the civil war sequence tells you all you need to know about the character.
Rope
#4173 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/30 03:55:03
Hitchcock. Genius. Check it out.
About a couple of prep school grads who start the movie off by murdering a colleague in cold blood, stuff him into a chest and then host a dinner party on his corpse, under the unsuspecting noses of their guests. That's where Jimmy Stewart, their former professor, picks up on their mannerisms and notices something is amiss...
Yeah, it's pretty bloody good. One continuous shot (not really, but it's like one long scene), pretty ballsy and I think works wonderfully.
Rope's Great
#4174 posted by nitin [124.148.186.216] on 2011/04/30 04:07:17
but get onto Notorious zwiffle!
#4175 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/04/30 04:10:28
It's in the queue! (I bumped it up to #1 on your recommendation.)
#4176 posted by Spirit [80.171.20.66] on 2011/04/30 19:00:31
The Kingdom (2007)
Utter rubbish. Watch it if you consider modern Call of Duty to be the pinnacle of gaming.
Inland Empire
#4177 posted by nitin [124.148.187.32] on 2011/05/01 04:17:31
Lynch has more leeway than most for self indulgence with me, but this was utter shit. Utter shit that looked terrible and also didnt feature his trademark eerie sound desing.
Hopefully if he's going to stay digital, he at least shoots with the Red One camera from now on.
Expendables
#4178 posted by nitin [124.148.187.32] on 2011/05/01 06:54:30
one mid movie action scene aside, I though this was terrible. The long action sequence at the end was edited to oblivion and most of it just sucked.
Firefly
#4179 posted by starbuck [108.74.160.78] on 2011/05/01 10:44:37
Just rewatching this, it really is a wonderful show. Loving attention to the characters, great dialogue. How did Joss Whedon do it? Why isn't there more of it? Why does my heart beat faster when Captain Mal comes on screen? Am I in love?
What is love?
Expendables
#4180 posted by starbuck [108.74.160.78] on 2011/05/01 11:05:17
yeah Nitin I totally agree. My expectations were realistic but completely undershot. It's hard to like it as a big dum shooter: every scene drags on, full of blabbering dialogue that flails and desperately clasps at something that conveys actual human interaction. The plot is dull, the actors show zero charisma, and the fight scenes suck.
Stallone claimed he wrote 100 drafts of the script. Let's give him the benefit of the doubt and say he decided to film the last one. What a terrifying world we live in when there are 99 worse scripts out there. And how many more revisions would be needed before reading the script would be preferable to teabagging a blender? A thousand? Ten thousand?
The Naked CIty
#4181 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/05/01 20:30:07
The narration and the slow beginning gave me a poor initial impression. Having the producer of the movie narrate just threw me out of the noir that I wanted to enjoy.
The movie does pick up near the end, and I did enjoy the hunt for Garza. It was interesting to see how he began making mistakes the tighter the noose around his neck got.
I probably ended up missing a lot of good scenes though, because I did get kind of bored with it and ended up working on some Quake mappery while the movie was on, just sort of glancing back every once in a while.
So while this review is kind of worthless, I will say that the beginning was kind of lame, but the end seemed to pick up the pace and set the tone better.
#4182 posted by Spirit [80.171.96.169] on 2011/05/01 22:21:54
Rubber
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joI...
Sadly they put in another "level" with a group of people who watch the story as a movie (with binoculars in the field), comment it and become part of the story. Overall that made it artsy and stupid. Bad choice with the girl with eastern accent, she sounded retarted (no offense) until I realised it was an accent and even then it was just dumb. Such a shame, it could have been a cool horror persiflage.
Naked City Is Cool
#4183 posted by nitin [124.148.187.32] on 2011/05/02 00:39:16
but it has kind of dated.
Try out some of Jules Dassin's other noirs, especially Night and the City and Brute Force.
Call Northside 777
#4184 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/05/02 01:05:50
Not as hard boiled as I would have liked, just a story about Jimmy Stewart, a newspaper journalist, who's out to prove the innocence of a supposed cop killer who's been in jail for 11 years. Mostly just a mystery, but I thought it was pretty intriguing throughout. Needless to say, in the end he proves the guy's innocence and everyone lives happily ever after (no surprise) but the movie itself kept my attention.
That One Was Decent
#4185 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/05/02 04:10:09
but I thought it started dragging a bit when they went through the procedural stuff in too much deatil at the end.
Rubber
#4186 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/05/02 04:44:40
A little too clever for its own good. Its a smartass movie. Not really very entertaining. Its like scanners meets herbie.
Metropolis - 2010 Reconstructed Cut
#4187 posted by nitin [124.170.6.147] on 2011/05/02 15:19:21
I'd seen a few silents so far but was still a little hesitant in approaching 2.5 hr german silent from 1927.
Didnt matter, brilliant stuff from start to finish. Easily Fritz Lang's best and that's saying a lot when you consider Scarlet Street.
#4188 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/05/03 00:11:48
i've never watched a silent before (come to think of it i can probably count the number of B&W films i've seen on one hand too) but been interested in checking metropolis out. premise looks interesting.
anyway, recent musings...:-
on kaufman...
adaptation (2002) - brilliant. such a warped idea, executed to perfection with so many clever touches. one of those films i immediately wanted to re-watch just to take everything in again. some laugh-out-loud moments too. probably my favourite nick cage film
also tried re-watching eternal sunshine of the spotless mind (2004) to see if i could appreciate it more but it's still kinda lost on me. well written & performed with some touching moments, but joel's erasing process (which takes up the majority of the film) was just too disorientating for me to enjoy. it reminded me of being smashed out of my face on ketamine on a comedown a few years ago, getting lost in multiple realities where nothing quite made any sense (not always a pleasant experience, fyi). i might have better appreciated such headfuckery in a darker, more horror-orientated film (1408 springs to mind) but it felt out of place in what is essentially a romance drama
on cronenberg:
videodrome (1983) - another film that traverses multiple realities without always making apparent sense, but this one i liked. had a similar feel to existenz, albeit not as clear (in terms of both what was actually happening and the underlying messages) and rather more dark. ending was pretty harrowing
the fly (1986) - rather more straightforward... and gruesome! but decent enough. goldblum is superb. but yeah not one i'm in a hurry to watch again =)
have scanners & naked lunch still to watch.
on shit films:
fast 5 (2011) - shit in a fun way. there was enough ridiculously OTT action and comically wooden acting to make it semi-worthwhile. the third act car chase is completely stupid but brilliant at the same time
the green hornet (2011) - this was just shit in a shit way. stupid, unfunny & terribly written with characters ranging from pointless to highly irritating, and even the action scenes are spoilt with silly effects. avoid!
sucker punch (2011)...... okay i actually really enjoyed this. i know i shouldn't have. looked fantastic. action scenes felt like epic FPS boss battles! some great music too (that where is my mind cover nearly brought a tear to my eye...) some shades of poignancy in the end too. no really! agh who am i kidding, it has a average of 33% on metacritic, make your own mind up. i was on a hot date so that *MAY* have been a contributing factor...
Eternal Sunshine & Green Hornet
#4189 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/05/03 05:31:02
I didn't go away to masturbate over eternal sunshine of the spotless mind either. it was good, just not the cult classic everyone has made it out to be.
i've been watching the green hornet for a couple weeks now. that's how boring and shit it is. and i'm still only 3/4 through. seth rogen is terrible, playing the same old character as always, the only one he knows, but much more unlikable and just not funny. still not as bad as sandler though.
the asian dude looks like congs i shoot in video games, and it's completely unrealistic that they're superheros. bad movie.
Black Swan
#4190 posted by nitin [124.170.6.147] on 2011/05/03 13:06:55
brilliant for about 70 min, then I found the usual smart arsery of Darren Arnofsky taking over and making it less moving and more tongue in cheek.
Still the first 70 min are tremendous.
7.5/10
Interesting...
#4191 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2011/05/03 19:24:12
i thought the whole thing was strong... probably my favorite movie from him.
#4192 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/05/03 20:37:30
i've been watching the green hornet for a couple weeks now. that's how boring and shit it is. and i'm still only 3/4 through. seth rogen is terrible, playing the same old character as always, the only one he knows, but much more unlikable and just not funny. still not as bad as sandler though.
i'm surprised you keep going back to it! honestly it's not worth finishing. i've tolerated him in his other movies (you generally go in knowing what to expect) but this was way below even his standards. like sandler with zohan
#4193 posted by Zwiffle [184.60.27.118] on 2011/05/03 20:45:25
omg this http://io9.com/#!animation/5798057
Goryish and violent. Thumbs up, and I'm half way through it. (you may have to remove the #! and change it with something else)
#4194 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2011/05/03 21:01:05
links to that website never work for me. :S
#4195 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2011/05/03 21:01:42
wow, fucked up. i clicked it a second time and it worked... heh
Zwiffle
#4196 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/05/03 23:23:12
I followed your link and got a video of a spider fighting with an ant. Then the spider gets attacked by another, bigger spider. Quite cool. Not sure thats what u intended?
That's Not It
#4197 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/05/03 23:36:07
or at least not what i got. try copy and pasting the link instead of clicking it & you get something cheeseburger related
I Seem To Be Alternating
#4198 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/05/04 03:54:11
between watching excellent movies and utter crap.
Get Him to the Greek definitely falls into the latter category. Initial 10 min are decent, than it's rubbish for about 90.
Planet Earth
#4199 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/05/06 03:07:27
I'm not a huge documentary person but the footage they have on this show is incredible!
True
#4200 posted by Drew [70.54.153.91] on 2011/05/06 04:22:47
Pretty fucking amazing. Especially the deep sea episode.
#4201 posted by jt_ [24.11.39.160] on 2011/05/06 08:32:00
Thor wasn't that bad, for an action movie. I thought it was going be shit from the previews I saw.
Drew
#4202 posted by nitin [124.149.87.245] on 2011/05/06 15:25:18
not up to that one yet, so far the Mountains and Ice Worlds episodes have really got my attention as well as the Fresh Water one.
I Wathed Touching The Void
#4203 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/05/06 16:19:33
For the first time last week. What an amazing piece of film that is aswell. Jaw dropping. I had to watch it twice. That mountain is the coolest most scariest mountain evar!
Tron Legacsy
#4204 posted by nitin [124.149.87.245] on 2011/05/08 11:57:23
seriously, wtf?
I havent seen the first but I doubt that would make this seem any more logical. Utter gibberish of a plot, some very nifty effects sequences and a suitable score from Daft Punk.
But at the end of it all, wtf is all that came to mind.
#4205 posted by Spirit [82.113.121.205] on 2011/05/08 13:19:25
The king's speech
I did not expect to like it at all and instead I got the most wonderful movie I've seen this year (unless I am forgetting something). Very likable characters, a to me interesting story that was exciting and full of strong tension all the way. Some minor annoyances but I won't mention them wo noone gives them involuntary attention.
The Spirit
#4206 posted by nitin [124.149.87.245] on 2011/05/09 05:08:15
why is this so hated? I thought it was quite fun with its campy parody style.
Tron Legacy
#4207 posted by starbuck [108.74.160.78] on 2011/05/09 05:27:12
It's weird for sure. Seems pretty disjointed. Maybe the tone is a little off also. It possibly is taking itself a little too seriously, because when it gets to the bit when -- SPOILER(?) SPOILER(?) HONESTLY WHO CARES -- hot Tron assassin girl steps out of the computer and turns from lines of code into a real flesh and blood person, it just seems absolutely ludicrous. Nowhere near campy and fun enough for that kind of thing to pass by unchallenged. This isn't Weird Science, I wish it was.
The Spirit
#4208 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2011/05/09 05:36:30
didn't hate it or anything, but sometimes it was just really weird to be funny (if it was supposed to be) and there was the general sense that it was imitating sin city.
just my impression, of course.
Necros
#4209 posted by nitin [124.149.87.245] on 2011/05/09 07:22:29
it definitely imitates Sin City visually but I dont think the tone is the same at all. Sin City was kind of like hyper noir, this was definitely in the parody mould. And it does get weird funny, but I liked that part :)
Unlike what I just finished, Scott Pilgrim, I dont think I 'got' this at all. Possibly the worst movie I've seen in a long time.
Source Code.
#4210 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.11] on 2011/05/10 00:00:04
From the trailer I described it as "Groundhog Day meets Speed meets The Matrix". And watching it it was pretty much Groundhog Day meets Speed meets The Matrix. Cool film I liked it a lot. Just nicely done and interesting how it pans out. Manages to do a lot with very little (a train, a small room, a science lab, and 5 main characters), the army girl is cool, and the feelgood ending is pretty nice too. Could have been slicker in places and possibly deeper but still good.
Yeah
#4211 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/05/10 00:38:04
I dug that movie (Source Code). You could go cross-eyed permanently if you spend too long thinking about the plot. Which I like!
I watched a movie called:
Enter The Void
Fucking wierd movie. Most of it is filmed from the perspective of a dead dude's spirit, and its kinda set in Hong Kong, ergo there is a lot of dirty sex and drugs and violence in it. But it's definately a 'different' take on a movie to the norm.........
Ricky
#4212 posted by nitin [203.202.43.53] on 2011/05/10 04:07:13
I though it was Japan? I have that in my pile, should get around to that.
So on my last day off before going back to work, I saw Greenberg and Mother and Child.
The former is a dramedy with Ben Stiller playing a neurotic a-hole trying to sort out his life. It's by Noah Baumbach so if you've seen Squid and the Whale or Margot at the Wedding, you know what to expect. Finely etched characters but pretty uncomfortabel viewing.
The latter is one of the great films of last year with excellent writing (albeit with a few obvious contrivances) and even better actign from Annette Bening, Naomi Watts and Samuel L Jackson.
Enter The Void
#4213 posted by negke [89.204.153.130] on 2011/05/10 17:45:53
Japan. It's from Gaspar Noé, go figure. Pretty psychedelic in parts. But also an hour too long for what it's worth. And the number of sex scenes seemed excessive.
God I Hate It When They Get Excessive
#4214 posted by starbuck [108.74.160.78] on 2011/05/10 20:50:24
oh look it's on Amazon
This Looks Fun.
#4215 posted by pjw [96.42.24.247] on 2011/05/12 03:29:57
Trolls!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLE...
The Chaperone
#4216 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.177] on 2011/05/12 04:45:52
I actually like this movie.
Ricky Mentioned
#4217 posted by nitin [124.170.9.238] on 2011/05/15 03:11:32
the korean action/thriller The Man From Nowehere a while back.
Finally saw it and its a simple, predictable, but stylish and solid genre flick with terrific action sequences and some nice regular black humour. Dont expect anything more and you'll have a very good time. 7/10
Olivier Assayas' Summer Hours on the other hand is a film that slowly creeps up on you and then full on hits you in the gut in its final scenes, a meditative, unsentimental look at family, death and memories that is just a treat to watch. 8/10
#4218 posted by Spirit [80.171.98.167] on 2011/05/22 12:38:28
The Dilemma (2011)
Painful to watch (because it is so bad), avoid at all cost.
#4219 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/05/22 15:31:30
Well now I'm torn, do I listen to Spirit and avoid it, or ignore him and watch it????
#4220 posted by rj [86.0.166.158] on 2011/05/22 17:19:13
seen quite a few recently but these stand out:
attack the block (2011) - great fun. imagine shaun of the dead meets kidulthood; predominantly action/horror with smatterings of cultish brit comedy. does both elements well and the laandan roodbwoi dialogue is brilliant. trust fam, believe
moon (2009) - very similar to source code in terms of themes/mood but works better due to the story being less convoluted and more logical. add a strong lead performance and great clint mansell score and you have one of the best sci-fiers of the last few years. keeper!
black swan (2010) - good. great, even, but with me being a bit of an aronofsky fanboy i kind of expected it to be awesome, which burdened it slightly with the weight of expectation. still, i guess it didn't disappoint and had about the right mix of everything.
nitin, out of interest have you seen the wrestler? i ask as it features almost none of DA's token 'smart arsery' (as you put it :) ) and imo still stands tall as a touching character piece (with some notable parallels to black swan)
Uhuh.
#4221 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.8] on 2011/05/22 23:02:43
Aeon Flux.
Pile of cheesy gibberish music-video catwalk-strutting style TOSS. Even as a trashy pointless slice of "veg in front of the tv for a couple of hours" it was a waste of time that could have been spent scratching my arse.
Rj
#4222 posted by nitin [124.170.9.238] on 2011/05/23 00:17:34
yes I have. And I liked it but, as a film, I didnt find it great even though Rourke, Wood and Tomei tried their hardest to turn it into one.
The plot and characters felt far too familiar IMHO.
Movies
#4223 posted by Drew [65.94.246.63] on 2011/05/23 00:54:49
Time Crimes - Don't know if I already mentioned this, but I finally saw and quite enjoyed this - slightly less than I had hoped to, but definitely worth a watch if you like Movies involving time travel, dark comedy, English subtitles. A nice, fairly low key movie with a pretty funny meta-commentary on approaches to time travel paradoxes in film
Predators
Very uneven. I'm in love with all those old arnold sci fi movies from the 80's, and in many ways this movie pays homage quite well to those, but it's super uneven. pretty meh/enh/etc in the end.
#4224 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/05/23 01:23:49
The Hurt Locker
Got 30mins in and decided it's another plotless middle eastern movie filled with various bomb scenes. What a bore. I'm sure a story would eventually come into it, but I'm not waiting.
Spanish GP
Awesome
#4225 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/05/23 01:52:17
Hurt Locker's scenes can be pretty intense, but yeah it's not so much plot-based as it is a character study. A series of increasinly tense situations involving this main guy and how he affects the people around him, and how basically he's an adrenaline junkie.
At least that's what I got from it.
Hurt Locker
#4226 posted by nitin [124.170.9.238] on 2011/05/23 02:05:02
is awesome, but yes no real plot.
The Killing
#4227 posted by megaman [88.64.186.87] on 2011/05/24 21:59:18
I've seen it. Was nice, but ultimately disappointing, because I had expected the greatest.
Movies I've Been Watching With Spoilers
#4228 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/05/25 04:47:08
Let me see ...
Notorious (1946) - Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman are sexy spies dealing with personal problems while Bergman goes undercover, actually marrying her mark in order to get close to some Nazi bad guys, much to Grant's dismay. He doesn't show it though, cuz he's a boss. Long story short, the guy she marries is totally a mama's boy, and he and his mom end up poisoning her little by little until she's about ready to die. Fortunately, Cary Grant saves the day, and what's-his-face ends up getting torn apart (I assume) by the Nazi folk for being such a goof.
Most memorable scene - when what's-his-face tries to leave his guests under the pretense of helping his wife, but Cary Grant is all like "Nope" and he has to sulk back to his mansion, with his guests waiting inside the main entrance, very reminiscent of trained dobermans waiting patiently. At least, that's what came to my mind, that these highly refined, intelligent men were actually ruthless animals underneath. Pretty intimidating.
Sunset Boulevard (1950) - So basically: struggling Hollywood writer owes money to guys, ends up being chased, drives into a mansion to lose them, ends up being the mansion of a huge Hollywood starlet from the 1920s who has sense fallen from grace and lives in obscurity. Basically, this movie is pretty fucked up. There is not a single character I like other than maybe Cecil B DeMille.
The writer basically lives off of her vast wealth, and she basically becomes his sugar mama while he ends up meeting one of his friend's fiance, also a writer, and you can guess where that goes.
Meanwhile Norma tries to get back in the spotlight, but really she's old and washed up at this point, her time is gone, but she refuses to accept it. Oh yeah, the butler that's been loyal throughout the entire movie was her first husband AND director, and so now he's this super spineless cuckold character, it's really frickin weird and more than a tad disturbing.
So basically the shit hits the fan, Norma gets super bitchy/jealous/PMS on Joe, which really, he deserved it sort of, and then she shoots him, goes completely fucking bonkers and thinks she's being filmed while she's actually being arrested.
Pretty fucked up. Fun movie to watch though.
Double Indemnity (1944) - This was maybe the bet of the latest batch of movies I've been watching. I would totally recommend it if you're interested in noir films. I don't want to spoil this one, it's actually pretty suspenseful watching what's going on.
It's very interesting watching a murder mystery from the point of view of the killer, it adds a lot more tension but you lose the mystery. It's a fascinating trade off, being so close to the cat who's eventually going to catch you, playing the mouse trying to find a way out of the trap you put yourself in.
I have to say this was definitely enjoyable, I would give it 4.5 or 5 out of 5.
Gilda (1946) - Interesting love triangle dynamics at play here. Antagonist hires protagonist to be his right hand man, while marrying protagonist's love interest, who ends up antagonizing both the protagonist and the antagonist.
I don't want to give away the ending, but I personally thought it deserved a more 'ruthless' ending than what it got. As it is, it's okay, but ... well, you have to watch it or youtube it or something. The rest of the film just seemed to want a more mature ending imo.
The Big Heat (1953) - Glenn Ford (also the protagonist from Gilda) is a hardboiled detective investigating a suspicious suicide that leads to a web of lies and all that awesome noir stuff. He's so hardboiled he doesn't even flinch when his wife is blown up in a car bomb. He just gets even more hardboiled and moves on.
This is another one that I thought was pretty good, but it lacked the suspense and tension that Hitchcock would have added to it. That isn't to say it's bad, it's just less exciting and more cerebral imo. Pretty much everyone involved in this crime racket is hurt somehow - the bad guy is brought to justice, his ex (who's face was scolded with piping hot coffee) went all Two Face on him and his associate, killing his partner in crime and getting even with him by splashing hot coffee on his face, while Glenn's character obviously lost his wife and thus his whole world.
After the all the backstabbing and betrayal, Glenn finally gets the bad guy, and decides not to kill him but give him into justice. And I forget, but I think he probably got his badge back. Oh yeah, he got kicked off the force, and handed in his badge, the Lt. was all like "And the gun, Bannion." and he was all like "This gun is my property, bought and paid for." Boss.
It was good, Fritz Lang did a good hardboiled job with it, just lacked the tension of Hitchcock is all.
Zwiffle
#4229 posted by nitin [124.168.118.136] on 2011/05/25 15:15:16
so did you like Notorious?
Agree on Double Indemnity, I think the dialogue in that is pure gold.
Also agree re Gilda (except you forgot to mention the hotness of Rita Hayworth) and I think your comments on The Big Heat are really spot on, there's just something missing isnt there?
As for Sunset Boulevarde, might be fucked up, but great film IMHO. You forgot to mention the chimp :)
The Messenger
#4230 posted by nitin [124.168.118.136] on 2011/05/25 15:16:37
bloody great acting, I have a lot of respect for Ben Foster now. And Woody Harrelson too.
Rest of the movie is well written too but avoid if you cant stand movies without plots/narrative arcs.
Justified
#4231 posted by nitin [124.148.180.34] on 2011/06/14 14:52:27
saw first episode, I can tell I will really like this already.
Thanks to sleepy for the recommendation.
1st Scene
#4232 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2011/06/14 16:32:13
already full of awesome ;-)
I Just Finished Season 2 Btw
#4233 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2011/06/14 16:33:02
Not as grand as season 1, but still very good and very funny (I love Timothy Olyphants one liners).
Justified
#4234 posted by Drew [98.124.27.247] on 2011/06/14 17:30:21
I liked the first few episodes, but felt like it definitely degenerates kind of sort of sharply.
#4235 posted by Spirit [80.171.95.53] on 2011/06/14 17:43:21
I started watching Castle and apart from the stupid cast for his family I really like it. Beckett is not my type of woman either though. I hope it stays as good as it was so far (3 episodes).
#4236 posted by Zwiffle [71.86.226.202] on 2011/06/14 17:52:22
I think the ginger daughter is too hot. But I like young, jail-baity gingers. The mom is hot too. But I like old, cougary gingers.
Beckett's alright, but yeah she's not my cup of tea either. Good character though.
The Only Good Thing About Castle
#4237 posted by SleepwalkR [80.187.106.216] on 2011/06/14 17:59:02
Is Nathan Fillion and even he can't save that show.
Yeah
#4238 posted by nitin [124.148.180.34] on 2011/06/15 01:20:55
that 1st scene had me sold. Great writing and acting.
2nd ep was hilarious, 3rd was slightly underwhelming but this is good stuff.
Oh
#4239 posted by nitin [124.148.180.34] on 2011/06/15 01:21:15
and the music is cool too.
Re: Castle
#4240 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.146] on 2011/06/19 20:32:21
asshole ending of season 1. Nice series otherwise though, will continue watching (well fuck, I have to thanks to this fucking cliffhanger).
Spirit
#4241 posted by Zwiffle [24.209.173.255] on 2011/06/19 21:27:30
Wait until the season 3 cliffhanger...
Spirit
#4242 posted by SleepwalkR [192.76.146.51] on 2011/06/19 22:23:52
There are so many shows that are so much better than this. Castle has exactly one awesome bit, and that's when Nathan Fillion dons the Firefly costume.
So...
#4243 posted by starbuck [108.74.160.78] on 2011/06/20 01:19:16
who else has a boner for the Game of Thrones finale tonight?
Jusrified
#4244 posted by Nitin.at.work [49.198.115.139] on 2011/06/20 01:22:30
Finished season 1, all kinds of great for sure.
Fringe and BSG 2nd seasons to follow.
X-Men First Class
#4245 posted by mwh [120.136.5.22] on 2011/06/20 04:41:52
Enjoyed it a lot, but can't help thinking that it would have been better if the characters had more freedom to develop in their own ways, rather than slotting into the more or less predefined X-Men roles.
#4246 posted by Spirit [80.171.52.188] on 2011/06/23 21:18:49
Two episodes of Castle season 2 were awful so I guess I will stop watching. Dammit, season 1 was really nice.
I Liked Season 3
#4247 posted by Zwiffle [71.86.226.202] on 2011/06/23 21:37:58
I skipped the first 2 seasons so I dunno how they were. I dunno, giving up on a show because of 2 bad episodes seems kind of lame, especially when you liked the first season. 1 season < 2 episodes I guess.
Apocalypse Now Redux
#4248 posted by megaman [94.221.98.184] on 2011/06/25 12:46:26
Must be the slowest movie I've seen in a while. I was a bit disappointed, because i liked the original so much (despite me not remembering much of it?!). Because of its lack of speed it didn't really blew me away, but it certainly is nice. Don't really know what to think of it.
ANR
#4249 posted by nitin [124.148.156.23] on 2011/06/25 13:43:52
is shit. AN is awesome :)
Complete Streaming French Version
#4250 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2011/06/25 13:59:49
http://www.streamingdefilms.com/43...
in case somebody have interest ;)
Hmm
#4251 posted by nonentity [86.136.228.94] on 2011/06/25 15:25:25
...
I really like the added scenes, they all add something to the underlying topics and sense of place/disonant societies.
Yeah
#4252 posted by nitin [124.148.156.23] on 2011/06/26 03:40:37
but they kill the pacing bigtime IMHO.
The Thing
#4253 posted by jt_ [68.42.82.10] on 2011/06/26 05:49:42
Just watched this after not seeing it for years, and it's still one of my favorite horror movies. I've yet to see a monster as scary/gross/awesome as the thing.
Jt_
#4254 posted by erc [195.174.19.188] on 2011/06/26 10:22:27
Be sure to check out the original 50s one too - The Thing from Another World. It can't top Carpenter's remake but still remains a memorable piece of classic sci-fi.
ANR
#4255 posted by Berntsen [217.14.11.155] on 2011/06/26 18:44:58
So which scenes are added? I've seen the movie twice, both of which I believe was Redux, and it's still one of my all-time favorites. Interested in finding out what I'd think of the original cut.
The Most Major Addition
#4256 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/06/27 03:07:36
is the french planatation scene. Another playboy bunny scene compared to the original plus various other bits and pieces.
Hanna
#4257 posted by negke [89.204.153.141] on 2011/06/27 23:02:22
Cute girl with ninja skills gets civilization shock and kills bad guys. Kinda cool, in a Leon sort of way. Lots of running to Chemical Brothers music and awkward German spoken by Americans.
#4258 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.27] on 2011/07/02 19:52:37
Rio (2011)
Animation movie for kids, lots of singing, all clichees served, predictable like it should be. I did not enjoy it much.
Err
#4259 posted by nitin [124.168.124.82] on 2011/07/10 07:29:18
so second season of BSG (halfway though, they've just met Pegasus) is still pretty kick ass, what were the complaints?
Nitin
#4260 posted by SleepwalkR [92.231.107.210] on 2011/07/10 11:29:05
I think the second half of S2 gets a bit slow, focusing on internal problems in the fleet. I think it's the episodes between "Resurrection Ship" and "Lay Down Your Burdens". Then it gets fantastic again for the first part of S3... but I think that some of the later episodes of S3 are a bit meh again. But all in all, this is nitpicking, because even when it's meh, BSG is still pretty damn fine due to the great cast, music and visual quality.
Also, do not forget to watch the Webisodes which were released between seasons and make absolutely sure to watch the movie "Razor" between S3 and S4 - it's fucking great, esp. if you like the Pegasus angle. After finishing the series, you could watch another TV movie called "The Plan", but it's really bad... really really bad.
Sleepy
#4261 posted by nitin [124.168.124.82] on 2011/07/10 11:49:36
yeah have Razor and the Plan, didnt know about webepisodes.
Webisodes
#4262 posted by SleepwalkR [92.231.107.210] on 2011/07/10 18:35:05
They're not really necessary to understand the plot development, but do show some insight into the background. Some of them have also been incorporated into Razor IIRC.
#4263 posted by Spirit [82.113.106.199] on 2011/07/11 09:32:13
Paul
My expectations were too high. This was not an Edgar Wright movie. I did not really like the trailer and the movie itself was quite like it. Not bad at all, but nowhere near what Pegg & Frost are known for.
Rango
Extremely weird and a lot of fun. Great music and characters. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
Paul
#4264 posted by RickyT23 [86.140.233.0] on 2011/07/11 10:15:04
I didnt like it either. Mainly because I didnt like Paul, I found his character to be an unconvincing annoying sarcastic american-sounding alien. Which didnt make sense to me.
#4265 posted by Spirit [80.171.95.244] on 2011/07/12 19:42:55
Castle got better a few episodes in Season 2 but now I am on that double(?) episode with the FBI guys with that FUCKING RIDICULOUS CSI CRAP. Fuck this.
So Tree Of Life
#4266 posted by nitin [124.168.124.82] on 2011/07/13 14:48:25
not sure I'm 100% sold on everything, but at least 80% of it is phenomenal and a masterpiece of visual storytelling.
If you have any interest in seeing it, make sure its on as big a screen as possible.
Angst (1983)
#4267 posted by megaman [88.66.54.197] on 2011/07/16 00:11:17
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt016562...
Very strong, very disturbing, excellent photography, a bit slow paced / painful to watch in the second half (I think on purpose), nice music if you can stand 80ies synths.
definitely recommended if you like disturbing movies.
Oh
#4268 posted by megaman [88.66.54.197] on 2011/07/16 00:12:26
it's not really a horror or splatter movie, more like a psychological drama that doesn't shy away from strong images.
So, The Breaking Bad Season 4 Premiere
#4269 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.96.4] on 2011/07/18 14:26:02
Can't begin to describe how much the 13 months of wait have paid off...
DO NOT
#4270 posted by SleepwalkR [141.20.199.32] on 2011/07/18 14:58:19
spoil it! Just saying.
Yeah
#4271 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/07/18 15:57:23
My dad has cable, I do not, and he messaged me saying "OMG" after the Breaking Bad premiere.
I ignored him.
P.S. I misspelled Breaking Bad, and got Breadking Band. I don't know how that happened.
[Ba]king [Br]ead
#4272 posted by onetruepurple [89.79.96.4] on 2011/07/18 16:57:50
Wow, Awesome
#4273 posted by megaman [88.66.38.227] on 2011/07/19 20:33:57
http://www.publicdomaintorrents.ne...
Breaking Bad
#4274 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.121.91] on 2011/07/19 23:09:04
Yup, it was worth the wait.
Finished BSG S2
#4275 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/07/20 04:19:40
I would say that I loved about 3/4 of this season and that is more than I can say for a show like Fringe, which I enjoy but find too frustrating for its many missed opportunities.
Great setup for S3, but wont watch that straight away. Mad Men S4, Lost S6 and John Adams are next in the queue.
#4276 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/07/20 04:43:39
Lost Season 6
:(
Have To Finish It Though
#4277 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/07/20 05:49:37
I'ved liked 1-5 to varying degrees so hopefully its not totally shit :)
Totally Shit?
#4278 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.121.91] on 2011/07/20 09:06:08
No, it certainly isn't. It's Lost, even when it's shit it still has good dialogue, characters and acting. It certainly isn't its best season, but it's not the worst either. Have fun!
BSG
#4279 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.121.91] on 2011/07/20 09:10:32
This is the best fan made trailer I have ever seen btw:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfF...
No spoilers for S3 and S4.
Cool
#4280 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2011/07/23 03:19:28
but plays up the cain/adama bits and makes it seem like it was a bigger part of the show than it was.
also, beginning of s3 of bsg is great. i think you'll enjoy that.
Bleh
#4281 posted by Spirit [80.171.85.111] on 2011/07/24 01:02:16
True Grit (2010)
Surprisingly great movie ruined by its last 5-10 minutes. What a shame.
Huh?
#4282 posted by megaman [88.64.188.170] on 2011/07/24 01:48:37
what was so bad about the last 10 minutes?
Yeah
#4283 posted by nitin [124.168.124.82] on 2011/07/24 09:05:46
not sure what you're on about, came straight from the book and fits fine IMHO. Although, yes its not a happy ending.
HP7
#4284 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/07/24 10:27:06
The final harry potter movie was great - the best yet of course.
#4285 posted by Spirit [80.171.84.3] on 2011/07/24 11:36:31
The ending felt so random. Bu, yrg'f qhzc ure qbja vagb gung fanxr cvg naq gura unir n rkpehgvngvat frdhrapr jurer Ebbfgre oevatf ure gb fnsrgl. Naq gura yrg'f snqr vagb gur shgher naq fubj gung gur tvey sbhaq n sngure/zna(?) svther naq gung ur pbzcyrgryl(?) punatrq uvf yvsr whfg fb. If that was so important to show, why not work it into the movie better?
Dunno about the book and I have not seen the older movie either.
The Older Movie Ditched
#4286 posted by nitin [124.168.124.82] on 2011/07/24 13:08:13
the book ending.
Cinema.
#4287 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.252] on 2011/07/29 14:55:32
Anything good coming up over the summer? Thriller / sci-fi / intelligent action / stuff like that?
Stuff wot I've liked in that vein this year or so: The Adjustment Bureau, Source Code, Monsters, XMen First Class, errrr not sure what else.
Battleship
#4288 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/07/29 15:04:50
http://nerdapproved.com/gaming/tra...
Really Want To See
#4289 posted by Drew [98.124.27.145] on 2011/07/29 16:36:30
tree of life. will do so monday or tuesday, probably.
#4290 posted by Spirit [80.171.7.108] on 2011/07/29 17:35:01
I really look forward to In Time http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tZ...
Hmmm.
#4291 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.252] on 2011/07/29 20:10:01
Filming looks really annoying in Battleship but film could be okay.
In Time looks cool, like that sort of thing, although does anyone actually need to see it after the world's longest trailer/spoiler??
13 Assassins
#4292 posted by nitin [124.168.124.82] on 2011/07/30 04:31:26
is cool as is The Yellow Sea, both a little OTT in the violence department though.
Is Super 8 Out In The Uk Yet?
#4293 posted by mwh [162.112.38.5] on 2011/07/30 08:33:05
It's a fun diversion.
Super 8.
#4294 posted by Shambler [86.25.166.252] on 2011/08/07 17:01:28
Was pretty good I thought, apart from the awful soppy ending, I nearly puked at the pendant bit. The rest of it was well done tho.
Plane Movies!
#4295 posted by mwh [95.144.161.22] on 2011/08/07 17:11:24
Sucker Punch
Errr... not really a movie in the usual sense of the word?
Source Code
Pretty good, agree with comments way upthread about the ending having all kinds of things wrong with it.
Kung Fu Panda 2
Completely pointless, but well enough made and distracting enough to pass the time.
Thor
Actually slept through 90% of this. Should I try to watch it properly on the way home?
Thor Was OK
#4296 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.170] on 2011/08/07 17:17:32
Had a reasonable old school authentic feel. I say yay, watch again when you aren't too exhausted to maintain conciousness.
If Ricky Likes It
#4297 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.42.235] on 2011/08/07 23:16:04
it's probably crap :P
#4298 posted by necros [99.227.131.204] on 2011/08/08 01:26:30
i'm pretty tired of all the super hero flicks.
Me Too
#4299 posted by Drew [76.75.125.184] on 2011/08/08 01:40:04
Sucks that studios are preproduction in like 100 of them for the next 8 years.
Kind of wanted to see Thor, just since Keneth Branagh (sp?) directed it.
Did See
#4300 posted by RickyT23 [86.140.233.0] on 2011/08/08 12:45:24
Super?
I liked that movie a lot, it makes a profound statement. I think the movie is about how violence is OK as long as you are the good guy in a superhero movie. The 'climax' of the Bolty story is an example of this.......
Thor Had
#4301 posted by RickyT23 [86.140.233.0] on 2011/08/08 12:46:40
I repeat:
"an authentic old-school feel" in parts. That's the combination of Branagh and Hopkins. How could it be shit? Its got Anthony Hopkins in it. He doesnt make shit movies.
Anthony Hopkins
#4302 posted by nitin [124.170.27.242] on 2011/08/08 12:56:48
has been dialling it in at least since 1995, except for The World's Fastest Indian.
But I will see Thor, I like who's involved all round.
On another note, saw The Thin Red Line again to see if I had changed my mind on it (only Malick film I didnt like). Appreciated the camerawork a bit more this time round but the movie still doesnt work for me much.
Some Shorts
#4303 posted by Spirit [80.171.98.1] on 2011/08/08 14:08:41
http://vimeo.com/15704652 comedy, romance
http://vimeo.com/7809605 try not to read anything on the page, just hit fullscreen (with hd!) right away, it will be even more interesting. might be somewhat disturbing and it sure is melancholic thanks to the music. it has its flaws but deeply impressed me. architecture and stuff so definitely something for "us".
and for czg http://vimeo.com/99317
The Thin Red Line
#4304 posted by RickyT23 [86.140.233.0] on 2011/08/08 17:37:24
A weird movie for sure, I liked it, for me the film is about the fact that life is beautiful, and should be cherished. Even if you are in the worst place in the world, after the worst times of your life, with no chance of survival, life is still beautiful. Or else what the hell was all of the camerawork for? Cause if deffo wasn't the plot......
Camerawork
#4305 posted by nitin [124.170.27.242] on 2011/08/08 17:42:01
some of it was for what you say ricky, but some of it was to get you into the soldier's point of view for that particular assault, ie at ground level, wading through the grass.
This Great Evil. Where Does It Come From?
#4306 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.116.51] on 2011/08/08 20:53:16
... to quote Witt. I believe that's the central question. Surely related to what you said Ricky. From the narrator's point of view, we all live in paradise (I think that's what all the beautiful imagery is about), so he cannot comprehend why there is so much violence and war in the world.
At least, that's what I took from it.
Yeah
#4307 posted by nitin@work [175.37.254.223] on 2011/08/09 01:26:25
That's how I would describe the main point, the duality of goodans evil within the same beings.
But unlike other Malick films, I just didn't feel anything overall
On That Note
#4308 posted by Drew [76.75.125.184] on 2011/08/09 01:50:16
Tree of life rules.
This Great Evil
#4309 posted by bear [83.250.35.120] on 2011/08/09 03:39:33
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cr...
Tree Of Life
#4310 posted by nitin [124.170.27.242] on 2011/08/09 14:14:31
yeah, see my comments above re bookends, but still the best thing I've seen this year so far.
#4311 posted by Spirit [80.171.98.236] on 2011/08/10 13:38:06
Cedar Rapids (2011)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt147783...
Neat. :-)
Help - Suggestions Needed
#4312 posted by rj [128.243.253.103] on 2011/08/11 11:22:12
can anyone think of any films that meet the following criteria:
- british
- low on violence/language/nudity
- good (bit of leeway on this one admittedly ;) )
- relatively mainstream (so easy to get hold of / license or whatever)
it's for someone at work who's putting on a film event. they previously used the king's speech if that's anything to go on. they didn't say how recent but mentioned rejected ideas as far back as 2000
any ideas appreciated :)
#4313 posted by Spirit [80.171.51.112] on 2011/08/11 11:51:34
Life of Brian!
Nah, just kidding. Only gangster movies and Edgar Wright come to mind.
The Violence Part Is The Hard Bit :)
#4314 posted by mwh [109.144.29.113] on 2011/08/11 15:56:01
Moon?
#4315 posted by mwh [109.144.29.113] on 2011/08/11 15:57:14
The young victoria is meant to be good too, and sort of fits with the King's Speech :)
Will Throw In A Few Different Ones For Variety
#4316 posted by nitin [124.148.161.8] on 2011/08/11 16:06:41
Never Let Me Go (british cast, americsn director though)
Atonement
The Damned United
The Queen
Control
Gosford Park
The HitchHiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Sherlock Holmes
#4317 posted by rj [82.10.220.211] on 2011/08/11 19:36:04
thanks guys, have relayed some of the suggestions!
i thought of damned utd :) moon too but wasn't sure if that was british enough (as in.. you wouldn't realise from watching it)
with atonement i'm not sure how well "in my dreams i kiss your cunt, your sweet wet cunt" would have gone down.. hehe
#4318 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/08/11 23:42:34
I found the The Other Boleyn Girl to be much more entertaining than The Kings Speech. Kings Speech was quite overated imo, though i'm in the minority on that thought.
Saw Kings Speech Last Weekend
#4319 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/08/12 03:19:08
I thought it was quite good as period version of Rocky, but I saw many better films last year.
Young Victoria is good too.
#4320 posted by Spirit [80.171.98.160] on 2011/08/12 23:16:43
In Good Company (2004)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt038526...
Kinda depressing but decent, kinda predictable but entertaining. Worst soundtrack ever, most of the time the music sounded like someone's smartphone ringtone or the latest Ubuntu launch sound. Was ok, 6/10.
I Liked That
#4321 posted by nitin [124.148.161.8] on 2011/08/13 05:10:28
kind of predictable but decently acted and entertaining (as you said).
Lost Season 6
#4322 posted by nitin [124.148.185.65] on 2011/08/18 14:11:54
I liked it. Not sure what the fuss was about the last episode, gave more answers than I thought it would and was in the same vein as all that had come before.
Lost
#4323 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/08/19 00:34:49
Well I think it's more that the island and everything about it, the good vs evil was all left unexplained. Instead we get the surprise purgatory twist, which to be honest was the #1 theory right from season fucking 1, so it wasn't exactly an original twist. Except that it was the survivors that left the island that were in purgatory, not the island itself.
Anyway if I found out the last year of my life I was actually in purgatory and my entire world didn't really exist, then I'd sure as hell stick around in it and do whatever I want. At the very least, say goodbye to everyone, not just turn up at some wanky building ready to fuck off to hell or heaven.
It was still a really good tv series overall, but wouldn't be in my top 5.
#4324 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/08/19 00:42:25
Speaking of which, what is everyone's top 5 tv series of all time? For me it's:
X-Files
Full Metal Alchemist
Seinfeld
Heroes
not sure on #5
Anyone else love Full Metal Alchemist? Only series i've ever seen which doesn't wank me around with pointless subplots every second episode (Lost), and instead sticks to the main plot.
SPOILERS
#4325 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/08/19 02:53:15
The island is purgatory theory, which has been around since season 1, isnt the same as the end IMHO.
The end is after the island (and also more like limbo than purgatory).
As for the island itself, there is plenty there to allow you to interpret what you think it is, and I am fine with that without needing a definitive answer. FWIW, I think the island was a physical embodiment of hell (that you could get physically get to without having to die).
Having said all that, I do think the initial plan was that the island was purgatory but I think that was changed once too many people clued on too early.
Favorite Shows
#4326 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/08/19 03:11:25
I have to break it down into comedy and drama.
Drama
The Wire
Deadwood
Carnivale
Mad Men
BSG/The Sopranos
Breaking Bad/Twin Peaks
X-Files
Comedy
Arrested Development
The Office UK
Seinfeld
The Simpsons (the first 9 or so seasons)
Slings and Arrows
Favorite Shows
#4327 posted by jt_ [68.42.82.10] on 2011/08/19 04:11:47
Not in any particular order:
Dr. who
House
Bones
Monk
Athf
king of the hill
Something else on adult swim I forgot.
Not On Adult Swim
#4328 posted by jt_ [68.42.82.10] on 2011/08/19 04:14:49
But I somehow forgot always sunny in philadelphia.
Lost Purgatory
#4329 posted by SleepwalkR [91.39.242.8] on 2011/08/19 08:12:16
What nitin said. The purgatory doesn't start before the atom bomb goes off - that's the point where we start to have two realities, one of which is the off-the-island purgatory where everyone has to remember their greatest love.
Also, nitin: Interesting that you have Carnivale up there. I would put that in my top five also. It's a great show which was cancelled too soon.
Yeah
#4330 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/08/19 08:54:47
I would have loved to see the 5 planend seasons of Carnivale come to life.
Also re: Lost, I must admit my impression was that the flash sideways wasnt an alternative reality related to the bomb going off but something that followed once Hugo became the caretaker of the island and changed the rules (from Jacob's rules).
#4331 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/08/19 09:00:34
Well yeah i'm aware that the ISLAND isn't purgatory, or limbo, whatever you want to call it. It's when certain characters return to the real world and get off the island. Well, most anyway... some of them we never got to see how they really died so maybe they did get back to America, ie Hugo. But it's still the same concept of "they're in purgatory". Which isn't really that original for a twist.
Unfortunately they had this storyline set right from the first episode. It's good but if I was a writer I wouldn't have bothered with that, and instead explained the damn island. The subplots for each character once they were back in America were boring anyway. Each episode that did that (and the first season suffered the same thing) was another "fuck sake just go back to the island plot I don't give a shit about Jin and his daddy woes! and that every second character is a murderer in their past". Still a great series though, if you string the 'island-episodes' together.
Well
#4332 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/08/19 09:34:33
I preferred the charcater stuff rather than the plot stuff, so aybe thats where the different reaction is coming from.
What Is Athf?
#4333 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/08/19 10:06:21
Aqua Team Hunger Force
#4334 posted by jt_ [68.42.82.10] on 2011/08/19 14:28:25
#4335 posted by Spirit [80.171.127.63] on 2011/08/20 00:58:56
Pirates of the Caribbean: Strangers Tide whatever.
120+ minutes of rubbish. Save yourself the time and do something worthwhile instead.
Spirit
#4336 posted by SleepwalkR [91.39.243.155] on 2011/08/20 09:19:46
Stop watching crap movies and complaining about it here. Seriously, either you're a masochist or you're really bad at judging which movies you might like.
Did Someone
#4337 posted by Spirit [80.171.97.108] on 2011/08/20 10:07:43
not have a good morning poop?
#4338 posted by rj [86.0.164.53] on 2011/08/20 11:05:55
i appreciate the bad reviews. it's nicer when they are a little more descriptive than simply "rubbish" though
Been Off Work This Week:
#4339 posted by rj [86.0.164.53] on 2011/08/20 13:06:47
the illusionist (2006)
pleasantly surprised by this given the negative reviews further up. not as good as the prestige but a cute little story in its own right; nicely directed & shot with a mysterious air and token surprise ending
pitch black (2000)
if you're randomly crash-landing a team of badly-acted misfits on a planet full of flesh-eating aliens that only come out at night, then surely it makes sense to NOT do it on a planet with two suns that has one night of darkness every 22 years! but nope, as luck would have it that night is mere hours away and all the monsters are ready & waiting, despite having not eaten or even seen the outside world in 22 years. in essence it's kind of a poor man's aliens, but with too much stupid to even enjoy on a popcorn level. it's even badly shot (daylight is ridiculously over-saturated and the shakycam is nauseating in places)
the thin red line (1998)
really enjoyed this up until the point where they take the japanese camp; magnificently shot and convincingly acted. seemed to lose momentum after that though and got a little too caught up in flashbacks and 'poetic' philosophical ramblings, without really developing the characters (witt & tall were the only ones i ended up caring for). not sure i'd have the patience to give it a second viewing
the beaver (2011)
if you can get past mel gibson donning a glove puppet, putting on a ray winstone impression and demanding everyone address him as 'the beaver' then this is actually quite a touching study on mental illness and its effects on family. my only problem was that the subplot with the older son didn't really have much connection to the main story, but on the whole good
angel heart (1987)
unsure how i managed to go so long without even knowing about this, let alone seeing it. loved it.. dark, disturbing & mysterious, totally my kind of movie. that said, the 'reveal' with de niro's character at the end could have been a lot more subtle and allowed the viewer to piece together the clues to his identity themselves.. which would have probably elevated it to a 10/10 in my book
blitz (2011)
very standard 'gritty' british police/murderer thriller with jason statham playing dirty harry. it was barely okay. fun in places but a bit naff in others. not sure i'd recommend it
last, and definitely least:
your highness (2011)
seriously, anyone in two minds about seeing this cos it looks like a fun pineapple express type stoner comedy, don't. it's an amateurishly cobbled together humourless mess of wanking and sex references aimed squarely at schoolboys. there is literally nothing good about it (save for a few boobs maybe? if, like me, you were tempted by that shot of a scantily clad natalie portman in the trailer, just watch the trailer again. that's the only time you see her like that)
Exactly My Thoughts
#4340 posted by Drew [98.124.8.35] on 2011/08/20 16:05:34
regarding Your Highness, Angel Heart and The Thin Red Line - disagree regarding Illusionist (boo) and Pitch Black. I have a total weakness for cheesy sci fi horror action stuff though. Then again, haven't seen Pitch Black in years...
Regarding The End Of Lost...
#4341 posted by ionous [75.67.189.47] on 2011/08/20 19:43:11
I've always subscribed to the theory that the island is the Empyrium, though not in the strictly Christian sense.
The purgatory theories, the flash-sideways, the afterlife fall in line nicely following the original premise.
Angel Heart
#4342 posted by nitin [124.148.185.65] on 2011/08/21 03:41:39
is cool, very atmospheric.
I Almost Always Enjoy
#4343 posted by Drew [98.124.8.35] on 2011/08/21 03:56:14
Mickey Rourke. Even when he's speaking in a fairly terrible russian accent.
Yah I Watched Angel Heart
#4344 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.170] on 2011/08/21 06:26:57
The whole movie was let down by the child's eyes at the end. Having said that, it was a great movie, I would recommend to anyone lol ;D
#4345 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.111] on 2011/08/21 13:25:29
Watched
Insomnia (2004) (or was it 2002)
yesterday. Was not as good as I hoped, but still good. Somehow it felt on the one hand incomplete/undeveloped while on the other there was a lot of unncessary stuff. The detective (Al Pacino) character did not convince me. The insomnia itself was well presented but felt almost completely superfluous to me since the character was screwed up in the first place. Robin Williams was ace.
Insomnia's Cool
#4346 posted by nitin [124.148.185.65] on 2011/08/21 13:32:20
although Chris Nolan's weakest movie. The original NOrwegian film is also better (especially the ending).
Didn't
#4347 posted by Drew [98.124.8.35] on 2011/08/21 14:14:15
even know it was a remake
Slight Spoilers Below
#4348 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.111] on 2011/08/21 22:59:11
Three days of the condor
Redford was a terrible choice for that character and the character itself was terribly introduced. I hated him for the sheer stupidity and idiocy with the girl. It got better after they had sex. Ultimately felt like one of those movies where you had to analyse the book in school and then watched the movie with the teacher and said ah, this is that scene and oh, interesting how the director did this. I really did not get into it nor did I like it in the end.
And I'll Be Watching The Original Insomnia! Thanks
#4349 posted by Spirit [80.171.128.111] on 2011/08/21 23:03:21
I've Always
#4350 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/08/22 02:43:27
found something off about 3 Days of the Condor, its decent enough but the pacing is not great. But I'm a big Faye Dunaway fan and whilst this isnt her best role, she's still good in this.
Awesome Analysis Of The Thing
#4351 posted by Zwiffle [71.86.226.202] on 2011/08/25 22:49:07
Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Spp...
Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgR...
Cool
#4352 posted by Drew [98.124.27.36] on 2011/08/26 14:41:51
will definitely watch those after work!
Hobo With A Shotgun
#4353 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2011/08/27 23:19:25
Holy shit, what a crazy god damn ride. Insanely cool vision, 80s style Grindhouse, super brutal over the top gore, pretty consistent pace. Although it starts off as just a violent action flick, it delves into really surreal territory with the introduction of The Plague (wtf?). The lighting is generally very harsh but provides that 80s comic book feel, almost like something you might see in Heavy Metal. Also kind of a throw back to movies like The Toxic Avenger, in that it's a city overrun with corruption that gets saved by an unlikely hero.
The violence is definitely not for the weak of stomach, it's very brutal and gory, and the movie does not shy away from absolutely despicable things like setting a school bus full of children on fire.
You probably know it's an instant cult classic already, but it's very easy to see why. Absolutely insane movie.
Yeah
#4354 posted by RickyT23 [90.196.80.26] on 2011/08/27 23:25:52
Good lads movie, to watch with several beers :)
#4355 posted by metlslime [67.188.81.46] on 2011/08/28 08:06:18
Yeah I really enjoyed hobo with a shotgun too. It was just what I expected and didn't let me down, unlike, for example, Machete. Rutger Hauer does a good job of grounding the movie by playing it straight while the rest of the movie goes crazy.
#4356 posted by Spirit [80.171.98.99] on 2011/09/03 13:38:40
Thor is ultra crap. Cheap CGI that makes 50s puppets look realistic in comparison. No character development to s&#7765;eak of even though the whole movie is supposed to be about it. Cliché story. Whole movie had no more substance than a 15 second trailer. Avoid!
#4357 posted by Spirit [80.171.98.99] on 2011/09/03 13:40:58
Might be fun for fanboys or people who know the comic(s?) or people like ricky.
#4358 posted by Zwiffle [71.86.226.202] on 2011/09/09 22:04:41
I don't know what this is, I don't know what language is being spoken, I don't know what country it's from, but I want to see it
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZd...
TROLL!!!!
#4359 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.61] on 2011/09/16 14:25:23
The Troll Hunter
Very cool, well done in a Troll Witch Project style, comedy funny in places, made all the better by how completely straight and dead pan it's played, especially the main character. Okay there's some plot holes and the trolls could have been scarier, but does exactly what it says on the tin. Oh, I did find the constant rain a bit depressing though, too much like the UK lol.
I Didnt Get The Ending
#4360 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.170] on 2011/09/16 19:30:07
Who were they running from?
The Government Agency.
#4361 posted by Shambler [86.25.222.61] on 2011/09/16 20:03:14
#4362 posted by Spirit [89.204.138.9] on 2011/09/17 00:50:58
Hanna
I expected a completely different story and was pleasantly surprised. Stylish exciting action thriller drama (minor) psycho movie with awesome music from the chemical brothers. Will watch again!
Unstoppable
#4363 posted by nitin [124.170.63.152] on 2011/09/17 02:20:18
Tony Scott in good movie shocker. Does exactly what I didnt expect it to do, not too long, not too dumb and quite exciting and suspenseful.
So Anyone Seen Drive?
#4364 posted by nitin [124.170.63.152] on 2011/09/17 02:23:16
only thing I want to see at the movies at the moment.
Hanna Was OK
#4365 posted by RickyT23 [94.13.59.170] on 2011/09/17 04:45:09
I enjoyed it but it had a really crap super McCrappy ending. IMVSO
Source Code
#4366 posted by nitin [124.170.63.152] on 2011/09/18 04:04:33
pretty well made till the last 2 min which are really dumb. They had a sensible ending already which would have still been emotionally satisfactory but adding on the last 2 min just undid a lot of good work IMHO.
Still, nicely made and acted for the most part.
#4367 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.16.80.21] on 2011/09/18 04:18:46
I like Drive, it's great fun. Mark Dacascos makes a good Jackie Chan, and it's got the whole Rush Hour buddy thing going on but I don't find it nearly as annoying somehow.
Good solid action film on a Tiny budget :)
Zqf
#4368 posted by nitin [124.170.63.152] on 2011/09/18 04:29:09
no this one :)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt078050...
Wow
#4369 posted by Tronyn [207.161.254.138] on 2011/09/18 10:39:05
Nitin, my thoughts exactly.
loved how he seemed insane on the train the first few times... "you're the distraction right? every simulation has one!"
Yeah
#4370 posted by nitin [124.170.63.152] on 2011/09/18 13:24:26
I was thinking whether that was meant to be a character/circumstance trait or a subtle attempt at conveying PTS.
#4371 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/09/18 13:48:11
Saw 127 Hours and The Fighter this weekend. 127 Hours is about what I expected, Boyle made the best of what he had - basically a guy stuck in a hole for an entire movie. Quite exciting but it felt like the cutting off the arm cheapened it a little as a drama. Decent but I probably wouldn't watch it again.
The Fighter was good, great performances from Bale and Wahlberg. I'm glad Aronofsky pulled out of directing it though, the story wasn't really grand enough for his talent. It's not the kind of movie that'll be a classic in 30 years time. By the end I was on the verge of fast-forward just to get to the inevitable result of the fight. I did enjoy it more than 127 Hours, but there's been plenty of good boxing movies (sporting movies in fact) before it, and plenty more to come no doubt.
127 Hours was a much more emotional movie.
Hmmm what else have I seen recently... Doomsday, which i've now lost all faith in Neil Marshall having any skill. And Soon The Darkness - average cliched horror. MicMacs - quite good but I was hoping for something awesome and it didn't really deliver.
Oh and Lynch's The Straight Story (okay for 1 watch, but very slow), and Wild At Heart (rubbish). Certainly not Lynch's better movies. Watched The Lost Highway again, which is brilliant :D
Straight Story Is Awesome
#4372 posted by nitin [124.170.63.152] on 2011/09/18 14:19:00
IMHO.
Wild at Heart I didnt like at all except for a few isolated scenes.
As for The Fighter, I thought the best performance was Melissa Leo, simply because her character portrayal in the movie is not really how she normally is at all.
As For 127 Hours
#4373 posted by nitin [124.170.63.152] on 2011/09/18 14:19:38
great soundtrack IMHO.
Nitin
#4374 posted by Drew [216.252.75.96] on 2011/09/18 22:24:21
re Source Code - my thoughts EXACTLY. Was pretty unimpressed, over all.
re Drive - Saw it last night, it was good! I'm not the biggest fan of Bronson because it seemed all atmosphere and artsy sheen, with little weight beneath the surface.
Drive is much better, although some of that feeling remained for me.
Some sections of the movie felt a bit forced - like routinized set up, or something.
The violence is something that interests me in this movie. The director bides his time before a drop is spilled, and when it is you really feel it. However, the film goes too far in one or two scenes, and I felt it had the effect of undercutting other instances where the violence made more sense. It had the further effect of making me question the protagonist - making him go from a sort of classic Clint Eastwood, and into more of a Travis Bickle. Perhaps that was the point though...
The issues above are definitely minor criticisms - It's a good movie IMO - one of the better ones I've seen in months, and it has re-motivated me to go and find Valhalla Rising.
Four
#4375 posted by megaman [90.153.35.135] on 2011/09/19 01:11:00
Shelter
Starts nicely, gets more and more chaotic/cheesy towards the end. Sound fucked up?! (very hard to understand because of the quality.) Annoying music, good acting, mixed directing.
Bottom Line: interesting, but not necessarily good.
3/5
Thor
Skip under all circumstances. Dumbed down hollywood action-drama-comedy-comic-romance-... movie. Do I need to say more? Okay directing, nice images, bad CG, underwhelming acting, badly cut action scenes (that probably suck to begin with, but you can't really tell), cheesy story, out-of-place humor... etc.
2/5 because it's not as bad as similar movies.
Predators
Really well made action movie that doesn't try to be anything more than exactly that. Reminds me of action classics. Rodriguez' influence is very noticeable, this is a good thing. End is a bit cheesy, but in style with Predator.
4/5
Attac the Block
Nicely shot humorous action movie about alien invasion. Aliens look out of place, other than that its pleasant to watch. Story ok-ish, setting is nice, both could have been improved upon.
3/5
Hanna
#4376 posted by mwh [120.136.5.22] on 2011/09/19 01:13:14
Good fun, but completely all over the shop in terms of tone, I just couldn't get over that.
Drew
#4377 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/09/19 04:34:49
cool, will definitely see that once it finally hits cinemas in Aus. Wasnt a big fan of Bronson either but really liked Valhalla Rising.
saw Rabbit Hole last night. Very very goold film with top shelf acting and some nice dark humour to offset the otherwise bleak (but well handled) material.
Sword Of The Stranger
#4378 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/09/20 04:07:20
first anime film I've seen in years.
Very basic story and stock characters but the action scenes are worth it alone. Brilliantly drawn and choreographed and with a nice matching score.
#4379 posted by Spirit [80.171.154.196] on 2011/09/25 22:08:40
The Killing (1956)
Randomly picked this when deciding on a movie to watch so I had no idea what to expect. I found it quite bad. Acting was good from some, bad from others. The timeline is presented rather confusingly. The action scenes are awful. Sure, this was 50 years ago but even then they could have at least put some effort in masking the charade. For example when Nick(? the rifle guy) was shot... I don't get what is supposed to be so great about this movie. The overall idea of the story was great but presentation not so.
Airplane! (1980)
Super silly shallow dumb fun. Laughed a lot. Nice!
#4380 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/09/26 06:32:50
Ivan's Childhood (1962)
Pretty good idea for a movie, which i've been looking forward to: "12-year old Ivan works as a spy at the eastern front. The small Ivan can cross the German lines unnoticed to collect information. Three Soviet officers try to take care of this boy-child." But instead of being a war masterpiece it was really just a bunch of talking in a bunker and sweet fuck all happening. Finally the movie goes somewhere 3/4 of the way through when Ivan goes back across the river, which is really atmospheric and the highlight of the movie (which isn't saying much tbh). [SPOILER] then we suddenly discover his fate and it's the end of the movie. Why was he even going across the river? WTF was he scouting? Great acting from the boy though. I would hope some of Andrey Tarkovskiys later movies are a bit more interesting.
After.Life (2009)
Christina Ricci completely nude with tits out numerous times throughout the movie means i'm going to watch it just for that, but actually the entire plot was very refreshing and different, especially the ending. It's got numerous plot holes and you've just got to assume the characters are mostly complete idiots, but the unique plot and unexpected ending make it a pretty damn good horror movie.
The Short Films of David Lynch
Wow, these are the biggest piece of shit short stories i've ever seen, and i've been to a few student short film showings. I'd be embarrassed to have released these to public. I love David Lynch's movies, but this just shows that not everything he touches is good. The Cowboy and the Frenchman actually for the first half was pretty good - It was making me wonder if Lynch could pull off a comedy like Kubrick's Dr Strangelove. But alas, it turned into a gay as fuck musical. The Grandma was terrible and I just wanted it to end. The Alphabet and 6 fuckwits getting sick repeated over and over again made me want to kill myself. I skipped over The Amputee after 5min as it was boring me silly. The commentary by David was far more interesting than his short films.
Kona
#4381 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/09/26 06:45:30
I dont think you will like Tarkovsky's movies. Most of them do not have a traditional narrative and going by your reviews, I think thats one aspect you prefer to have present in a film.
As for Ivan's Childhood, I didnt think it was a masterpiece, but I did like it and it has one of my favorite moments of cinematography in any film (the forest sequence between Pasha and the officer with the camera following them around and ending with the camera pulling down into the ditch).
Spirit
#4382 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/09/26 06:46:30
really? I think The Killing is quite taut and tense and one of Kubrick's best.
#4383 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.16.80.21] on 2011/09/26 13:02:15
Stalker is fucking amazing
#4384 posted by negke [82.113.99.163] on 2011/09/26 13:24:38
Call of Cthulhu
Mandatory watch for deluded Quake people. A short movie from 2005 that closely follows Lovecraft's original story. All shot like an early-20th century silent movie, complete with cheaply-made contemporary effects and ear-cutting score. R'lyeh looks cool. I enjoyed it as a quick oldschool fix, especially since I listened to the audiobook not long ago. (Tip: Lovecraft audiobooks + mapping = win)
The White Ribbon
Somewhat odd and awkward movie set in pre-WW1 Germany. I constantly thought WTF is this and why is it so critically acclaimed, but it somehow unfolded on me afterwards. I wouldn't recommended it to anyone except nitin.
MegaspiritwalkR: Any of you seen Hell yet? How is it?
Nope
#4385 posted by SleepwalkR [141.20.199.145] on 2011/09/26 13:34:33
But I plan to.
LOVECRAFT AUDIOBOOKS
#4386 posted by Drew [216.252.92.213] on 2011/09/26 14:13:51
Fucking Fantastic Idea.
Anyone Else Seen Drive Yet?
#4387 posted by Drew [216.252.92.213] on 2011/09/26 14:14:50
Zqf
#4388 posted by nitin [124.170.31.172] on 2011/09/26 15:15:14
yeah but so is Solaris.
negka,
haha, already seen it mate :) Loved it of course.
drew,
27 October release date in Aus so not yet.
#4389 posted by Spirit [80.171.85.152] on 2011/09/26 15:23:54
Hell (1994)
Hell (1999)
Hell (2005)
Hell (2006)
Hell (2011)
?
And no, don't think so.
#4390 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/09/26 23:13:44
Oh yes I totally forgot about Solaris! I have seen that and liked it. The original was the better version over the George Clooney remake, but both were good. The remake will be more suited to todays audiences though since it moves at a faster pace and has more of a focus (on the relationship/romance).
Just Watched 2 Awesome Animes
#4391 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/10/05 09:54:41
Barefoot Gen (1983)
Similar to Grave of the Fireflies in that it's an anime based in Japan near the end of WWII from a child's perspective. GOTF was very very sad, but Barefoot Gen feels slightly more realistic and shocking. Loosely based on real life events as well. The animation is a little older looking, and some of the characters and voice acting can be quite irritating, but it's an incredible anime, just like GOTF.
Perfect Blue (1997)
Another older anime - more of a psychological drama/thriller about a pop idol turned struggling actor. It's very Lynchesque and by the end of the film quite open to interpretation as to what happened. Darren Aronofsky owns the big screen rights, which says a lot. Another incredible film, I'd love to see a live action movie of this. It does take a while to get up to speed, but the last 1/3 is crazy.
Perfect Blue
#4392 posted by Bal [92.103.98.224] on 2011/10/05 12:42:18
Check out Satoshi Kon's other movies, they are all good (some of them a bit more light-hearted but still nice).
His death was one of the biggest losses in jap animation in the last few years, I really hope they still finish the last movie he was working on. :(
#4393 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/10/05 23:48:54
Oh sweet. I've got Paprika but haven't watched it yet, so I better get his other ones. What's his TV series Paranoia Agent like?
#4394 posted by Zwiffle [71.86.226.202] on 2011/10/06 00:26:29
I watched Paprika with no sub titles in native Japanese because a friend pirated it. Had only a very basic idea of what was happening. Fucking awesome movie though.
Also Tekkonkinkreet, though I didn't fancy the story quite as much.
I Really Hated Paprika
#4395 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/10/06 02:19:36
but I'm not a huge anime fan.
Drugs Violence, And Coen Brothers
#4396 posted by Tronyn [24.79.116.78] on 2011/10/06 06:36:16
Boardwalk Empire - exactly what you'd expect from Scorcese and co, but not necessarily bad. 7 or 8/10. Some of the historical details were cool. Blatantly realistic portrayal of alcohol prohibition is very timely, given the war on drugs.
Breaking Bad - The concept is good but the writing is really inconsistent, going from brilliant to ridiculous (involving unbelievable events even given the premise), but strong acting generally pulls it through, 8/10. lots of cool moments.
Black Death - Worth watching once while not sober and wanting to see some medieval hack n slash, and a bit surprising in places, but not good. 5 or 6/10
Valhalla Rising - almost no dialogue, and quite slow and confusing, but BEAUTIFULLY SHOT viking stuff, and the few violent parts are great, 8/10.
Game of Thrones - Hmm hard to argue with this, the few weaknesses that bothered me (handling of battles, Lena Headey, and some of the stuff that was in the books) can't take anything away from how awesome it was to see something like this on HBO, 9.5/10
Didn't really get Burn After Reading (5/10 mostly because Clooney's "who do you work for" parts were so awesome), or A Serious Man (6/10) either, though the Cy Ableman parts of Serious Man were damned hilarious. I tend to see the Coen brothers as hit and miss.
Yeah
#4397 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/10/06 06:42:34
how awesome is Valhalla Rising :)
Paprika
#4398 posted by Bal [92.103.98.224] on 2011/10/06 09:41:10
Is his weakest film really, it's fun but that's about it.
His other movies are more interesting really.
Paranoia Agent is nice, a bit hard to follow at times, kinda weird.
#4399 posted by starbuck [92.236.81.250] on 2011/10/06 12:49:38
Game of Thrones - Hmm hard to argue with this, the few weaknesses that bothered me (handling of battles, Lena Headey, and some of the stuff that was in the books) can't take anything away from how awesome it was to see something like this on HBO, 9.5/10
Handling of battles meaning not showing them you mean? I thought that was a tad disappointing, given they had such a huge budget. I'm agreed with you though, solid 9.5/10, and I was really sad that the 10 episode run was over. I'm starting on the books though, which, so far, are just as good!
#4400 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/10/07 02:32:50
Coen Bros are hit or miss. A Serious Man sucked I thought, then throw in a completely random, unrelated wtf ending. Score was good though - coincidentally I'm actually listening to A Serious Man score now. And True Grit score.
I really liked Burn After Reading - all the actors were great in it. Score rocked as well.
Serious Man Was Great
#4401 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/10/07 03:24:24
in my book, I really enjoyed it. Much more than BAR, although I liked that too.
Random Blurb Because I Feel Like It
#4402 posted by negke [82.113.99.160] on 2011/10/09 23:58:14
Melancholia
Enjoyed it, nice imagery and good performances. Not entirely sure about switch of focus half-way through.
Going to (re)watch some of Trier's older movies next, the Dogma style ones for example.
Primer
Watched it finally (I actually thought it was new). Agree with what the others said in this thread. Niceish, but some omissions make it feel unnecessarily crude in parts.
The Tree of Life
Definitely had something. Visual story telling and abstracting stuff. Maybe a bit too slow in parts.
Snowtown
Now I know everything about Australians. And not just that they eat all the time. Every day! :( Also based on a well-known group of murders in the nineties which I'm not familiar with, but I thought the characters were pale and the whole thing kind of boring.
#4403 posted by negke [82.113.99.160] on 2011/10/10 00:11:48
Actually, the switch was okay. Makes sense now that I think about what the movie was about. Or something. I leave the profound analysis to you know who.
Negke
#4404 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/10/10 01:12:54
try Europa, that was great IMHO but keep in mind a lot of his older stuff is more abstract.
Re: Primer
#4405 posted by mwh [120.136.5.22] on 2011/10/10 01:29:05
I assume everyone has seen http://xkcd.com/657/ ?
Mwh
#4406 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2011/10/11 21:41:11
Cool !!
This Is The Correct Thread I'm Sure
#4407 posted by Zwiffle [71.86.226.202] on 2011/10/12 18:39:20
Not a film, but has anyone else watched American Horror Story? Thoughts on it?
Freaky weird show.
#4408 posted by Spirit [80.171.85.201] on 2011/10/20 21:47:53
Just randomly watched Get Carter (1971) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt006712...
Had no idea what to expect and got a nice grim crime thriller drama in 1970's England. Parts sure felt dated and some even amateurish (the violence in particular) but overall I really liked it and was on the edge of my seat through the second half. Seriously thrilling and unpredictable. Calm and cool. As I said, it is quite grim and has a serious theme. I felt like I was missing a lot due to language and sound troubles at times but in the end I think that a) the movie is meant to let you guess/feel a lot and b) things being uncertain or not explained added a lot.
Definitely recommended if you think you might like it!
Mark Your Calendars!
#4409 posted by SleepwalkR [217.92.186.216] on 2011/10/20 22:44:42
Spirit liked a movie ;-)
#4410 posted by Spirit [89.204.154.196] on 2011/10/21 00:25:24
you missed how much I liked Hanna!
also rewatched Anchorman recently and enjoyed it.
How Was The Smurfs Movie Btw
#4411 posted by negke [89.204.153.236] on 2011/10/21 00:33:16
Brit Crime Flicks
#4412 posted by nitin [180.149.192.133] on 2011/10/21 02:03:23
there's quite a few good ones, I even enjoyed the recent Colin Farrell starrer London Boulevard, despite its many flaws.
Sexy Beast is still the one that sticks with me most out of the modern ones.
#4413 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.16.80.21] on 2011/10/21 09:17:02
Check out Long Good Friday.
Oh Yeah
#4414 posted by nitin [124.168.97.90] on 2011/10/21 13:51:34
that and Mona Lisa too, Bob Hoskins is great in both.
4411
#4415 posted by Drew [173.176.48.105] on 2011/10/21 21:08:44
actually laughed out loud.
Three Musketeers
#4416 posted by mwh [121.73.77.183] on 2011/10/23 01:25:57
Reasonably executed but completely mindless drivel.
Xmen First Class
#4417 posted by nitin [124.168.97.90] on 2011/10/23 03:39:33
err, how inert was this? I dont think I was ever really excited, thriller or generally gave a shit. Except maybe right towards the end when Magneto finally turned.
Nitin
#4418 posted by RickyT23 [2.216.134.129] on 2011/10/23 06:00:26
Magneto was deffo the star. I liked the authenticity of its scenes, as a movie, on the whole.
The Authenticity?
#4419 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.188.212] on 2011/10/23 14:54:14
lolwut?
Battle Royale.
#4420 posted by Shambler [86.25.165.79] on 2011/10/24 12:47:26
Pointless. Could have been interesting if the characters had some depth that fed into the conflict. Once the general shock of the first 1/4 of it wore off, it was a headless chicken of a film.
Kind Of
#4421 posted by Drew [173.176.48.105] on 2011/10/25 05:07:54
like the book
Yeah
#4422 posted by Tronyn [24.79.116.78] on 2011/10/25 05:54:07
xmen first class was total crap, nearly everything in it was ripped from previous xmen movies (magneto turns the missles around like he does with bullets in xmen 1, mystique is angsty about her appearance and discrimination like in xmen 1, there is a "hot-headed" teen character with fire-powers like in xmen2, there is a cure for mutants like in xmen 3, and it's hilariously developed by beast, who later claims in xmen 3 that he's never before heard of the possibility of a cure), the plot made no sense whatsoever even in the context of mutant superpowers (lol and that takes some trying - lol a "cure" for mutant APPEARANCES that doesn't affect powers? wtf) and the one cool scene (magneto in south america) was a ripoff of a godfather II scene. nothing original whatsoever, and crap. what a mess.
Tronyn
#4423 posted by RickyT23 [86.142.195.180] on 2011/10/25 11:34:20
I thought it was the best of the XMen movies to date. The acting and character development was better than any of the other movies. The casting (Magneto's actor actually does pass off as a young version of his older counterpart) was good.
Seeing Mystique lean towards the darker side is fun to watch. Kevin Bacon was good. Very good infact.
Magneto turning bullets around is nowhere near as cool as him turning all of those missiles round at once.
I'll give you the stuff about Beast and the cure.
But to really get into the symantics of it is a bit rediculous. It's XMen. There is'nt a single believeable super-power or mutant character in the whole series, it's not just the film. Atleast it didnt have Halle Berry in it. Worst actor ever.
Well
#4424 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2011/10/25 11:58:35
It had Jennifer Lawrence.
#4425 posted by Spirit [89.204.139.164] on 2011/10/25 12:43:54
whoa wait sleepwalkr, you watched this? why?
I Actually Thought It Was The Worst Of Them
#4426 posted by nitin [124.168.97.90] on 2011/10/25 13:00:28
even worse than X3 and Wolverine :)
Mainly because it tried so hard but failed. X3 might have been the dumbest of the lot but it also has bullet like pacing and is generally fun. As for Wolverine, it had 2-3 'cool' moments whereas I didnt find any in this. Well, apart from seeing January Jones, Rose Byrne and Jennifer Lawrence in skimpy clothing.
And dont get me started on how wasted Fassbender was in this, even though he was the best thing in it.
X2
#4427 posted by Drew [173.176.48.105] on 2011/10/25 14:34:11
only one that I gave a shit about, really.
Spirit
#4428 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2011/10/25 15:22:52
It had Jennifer Lawrence.
Also
#4429 posted by SleepwalkR [130.149.148.83] on 2011/10/25 15:39:18
January Jones, yes
Columbiana
#4430 posted by RickyT23 [86.142.195.180] on 2011/10/25 15:40:58
Great film, bit of an anticlimax. The build up was good. The chick who stars in it is damn fine. The guy who plays the bad guy in Blow and Bad Boys 2, he always amuses me, but in this film he plays a straight role pretty well.
The Thing, Small Spoiler
#4431 posted by jt_ [174.252.246.185] on 2011/10/25 17:35:18
I thought it was a competent prequel. The only thing I didn't like was Gung zvarpensg guvat ba gur fcnpr fuvc, gung freirq ab checbfr jungfbrire. Vg jnfa'g rira qrfgeblrq va gur svtug vvep. (rot13).
City Of God
#4432 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/10/25 23:18:16
Watched City of God (finally) recently. Awesome movie. Had no idea what it was about and the started to fear as I was watching it that it's popularity is based on it being a completely unrealistic stereotypical/cliche crime drama with badass characters that teen/20s-men masturbate over (Scarface, Lock Stock... those sorts of movies). But in the end it was far better. Gritty, realistic, shocking. Actually I found characters like Lil Dice much scarier than overacted cliche Tony Montana bullshit. Not that I didn't like Scarface. But City of God is far more unique. That's one part of Rio I would NEVER want to go near.
#4433 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/10/25 23:24:18
Master Of Illusion
The other movie Clive Barker directed, alongside Hellraiser. It was quite film noir with Scott Bakula a Private Detective investigating a murder, but with magic and vengeance mixed in. The end battle was great, very Hellraiser-esque. Ultimately turned into a pretty underrated old skool horror.
Watched Creep (2004) last night. Good atmosphere and cinematography, but completely unrealistic storyline and laughable the amount of times the victims just run instead of finishing off the bad guy, who's wounded and weaponless on the ground. Shitty British horror.
Kona
#4434 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/10/26 02:05:54
I have been to one of the favelas in Rio, its scary stuff indeed.
Watched Jacob's Ladder
#4435 posted by RickyT23 [2.216.134.129] on 2011/10/27 01:56:41
Wow. Great film. Drags a bit, but it's brilliantly acted, some of the camera angles are sheer genius. The ending surprised me quite a lot. I can almost relate to it in a way, mainly because of the bad trip element.
Yes
#4436 posted by Shambler [86.25.165.79] on 2011/10/27 08:58:01
That film rocks. Want to see it again.
That's One Of My Favorites
#4437 posted by Berntsen [158.38.87.22] on 2011/10/27 14:40:15
Another film with a similar, eerie atmosphere is Session 9. It's not quite as good as Jacob's Ladder overall, but I'd say it's still very worth a watch if you haven't seen it already.
Session 9
#4438 posted by rj [86.0.164.53] on 2011/10/27 20:12:21
is brilliant; real slow-burning, subtle, mysterious horror the way it should be. not one for the impatient moviegoer, mind
JL is obviously great too. the hospital trolley scene especially :0
Session 9 Is Decent
#4439 posted by nitin [180.149.192.134] on 2011/10/28 02:16:37
didnt like the ending though. Very creepy in parts though.
Hate To Defy Nitin
#4440 posted by Tronyn [24.79.116.78] on 2011/10/28 03:18:24
but Session 9 is one of the best horror movies ever made.
Vincere
#4441 posted by nitin [180.149.192.132] on 2011/10/28 03:54:17
visually ravishing, operatic telling of the rise and fall of Mussolini but from the viewpoint of his unrecgnised and marginalised mistress. A little confusing if you're not faimilar with the content (at least it was for me) but if you go with it, everything sorts itself out pretty well.
Sleeping Beauty
#4442 posted by negke [89.204.137.139] on 2011/10/28 11:29:58
She's super hot for sure. Character development is lacking though, and some scenes/bits in the plot are just weird. Maybe that's part of the message.
#4443 posted by Spirit [80.171.9.255] on 2011/10/28 22:22:35
Sexy Beast (2000)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt020311...
great cast, good story but way too artsy/weird for my taste. many small parts were unnecessary and not adding to the movie or could have been much nicer (by me, yeah). can't really recommend it unless you got a thing for artsy movies.
I Have To Admit
#4444 posted by RickyT23 [2.216.134.129] on 2011/10/29 03:46:41
I also thought Sexy Beast was a pile of wank. Kingsley is basically just not at all interesting or appealing to watch in any way in the movie. Winstone carrys the movie, but the plot was also just droll. So you can't polish a turd.
FUNNY GAMES
#4445 posted by Tronyn [24.79.116.78] on 2011/10/29 09:57:56
this is one fucked up disturbing movie. what the fuck is wrong with these people lol. apparently there's an american remake. meta-stuff in it was interesting. evil ending!
Trainspotting. finally saw this, not as good as I was expecting, but still good... the withdrawal part was freaky and robert carlyle's character was awesome. he's so good at disturbing but funny characters.
Melancholia
#4446 posted by Tronyn [24.79.116.78] on 2011/10/29 12:11:52
I loved Antichrist, this is another beautifully shot and creepy movie. I really enjoy Von Trier's misanthropic, nihilistic point of view lol. Kirsten Dunst's character is lots of fun, her bizarre behaviour and occasional outbursts are awesome, especially when she explains that "Life, on earth, is evil." Seeing her topless in the moonlight with that crazy look on her face was also nice.
Coraline.
#4447 posted by Shambler [86.25.165.79] on 2011/10/29 21:15:43
Nice film. Very traditional "stylish interpretation of bog-standard children's tale", but nicely done. I particularly liked the modern touchs in this traditional arena - especially the digitised other world, and also some familiar details (laptop, mobile phone, new VW beetle, takeout pizza at the end), and also liked Coraline herself, lots of good expressions and flouncing etc etc.
Watched Funny Games
#4448 posted by RickyT23 [2.216.134.129] on 2011/10/30 02:01:54
Sick. Just sick. End of.
Tronyn
#4449 posted by nitin [124.148.178.205] on 2011/10/30 02:31:34
american remake is pretty much shot for shot, but for some reason the original still works better.
Contagion.
#4450 posted by Shambler [86.25.165.79] on 2011/10/31 18:11:02
Really good. Tight, lean, well paced, down to earth but unsentimental. Although I would have prefered a bit more tension towards the end.
A good example of modern thriller type films where they take a fuckupable premise and don't fuck it up. Good soundtrack too.
Drive
#4451 posted by nitin [124.170.13.183] on 2011/11/03 13:30:46
pretty well made considering how basic the plot and characterisations are. And a little too much cheesy 80's music for my liking. But boy is it stylish and cool.
And then there's Miike's 13 Assassins which rubbed me the same way as X-Men First Class, ie pretty much didnt feel anything at all. If Drive has basic characterisation, this has next to none. And without that, the final 45 min battle scene was just tedious.
#4452 posted by Spirit [80.171.40.90] on 2011/11/05 14:27:28
Coupling (2000-2004)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt023712...
is a great british comedy series. 3 girls, 3 guys. Mostly about relationships/sex. Currently early in season 2. Really nice!
Coupling
#4453 posted by Preach [94.171.245.254] on 2011/11/05 14:39:07
Coupling is fantastic, and it's worth noting that the creator went on to take over running Doctor Who, Sherlock (the modern BBC remake), and wrote for the new Tintin film, he's a bit of a legend.
Moffat's Great
#4454 posted by nitin [124.170.13.183] on 2011/11/06 02:08:37
the new Sherlock rocks, cant wait for S2.
Also liked his modern take on Jekyll.
#4455 posted by Spirit [80.171.84.247] on 2011/11/11 19:45:31
Rare Exports (2010)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt140114...
Man, what a waste. Started really well (only some not very likable characters, the kind was annoying) but about half way in it went berzerk into LOL NO JUST KIDDING WE ARE JUST A SHITTY B-MOVIE AND DID NOT MEAN TO MAKE A GOOD FILM LOLOLOL. The imdb score is probably thanks to people who like bad movies because it is so humorous and hipster to watch them. Damn! :(
Mad Men Season 4
#4456 posted by nitin [124.170.15.54] on 2011/11/12 00:50:13
finally got to this, just amazed at the consistent quality of this show, probably the best season yet.
Breaking Bad s3 next.
Breaking Bad Season 3
#4457 posted by ionous [76.24.156.217] on 2011/11/17 11:08:43
I don't watch a great deal of television, but season 3 of Breaking Bad is probably the finest season of any show I've ever seen. Quality from top to bottom.
Mad Men
#4458 posted by DaZ [78.147.102.119] on 2011/11/17 12:18:35
yeah I also just got done with s4. Really enjoyed it! I don't normally watch shows like this but I'm glad I stuck with it.
Watching BB Season 3
#4459 posted by nitin [124.170.3.134] on 2011/11/17 13:44:02
I actually thought the first 5 eps were actually a step down from s2, mainly because the black humour was missing, but the last 2 eps almost gave me a heart attack.
Hope to finish it over the weekend.
Films Wot I Saw
#4460 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2011/11/29 23:04:10
X-Men First Class
Plot moves way too fast to establish why I should care about these twats. Does a really bad job of explaining why Magneto went full dickhead. CGI apparently rendered in real-time on a Gamecube. Horrible foreshadowing of the other movies. "Professor X, I like the sound of that" VOMIT "I suppose that makes these kids my ""X-MEN""" DRY HEAVE, MINOR STROKE
#4461 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2011/11/29 23:15:52
Black Swan
Fantastic. I liked this more than most reviews I've read. A lot of commentary on the film is painting it as overwhelming and confusing, but I thought it made complete sense and that it moved between phases very naturally. Swan Lake is infused into every inch of this film, down to the brilliant soundtrack. In contrast to some of the opinion I read here and elsewhere, I couldn't have imagined a better ending. Honestly I struggle to think of a film that ties itself up so satisfyingly and economically.
Also you get to see Natalie Portman having a crank, 5 stars.
#4462 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2011/11/29 23:20:50
The First 30 minutes of 'The Green Lantern'
Probably wouldn't be any worse if the first scene was a sex-tape of your parents, and all the other scenes were of kittens getting hit with hammers.
LOLph Dundgren
#4463 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.156.249] on 2011/11/29 23:27:11
Hahaha
#4464 posted by rj [86.0.164.53] on 2011/11/30 00:30:42
speaking of summer blockbusters;
the rise of the planet of the apes - a little predictable and often verging on ridiculous, but enjoyable nonetheless with decent pacing & performances (not to mention EPIC APE CITY ATTACK and draco malfoy getting punked). cgi mostly excellent. worth a look
cowboys and aliens on the other hand, urgh. not remotely fun enough to possess such a silly title; boring, utterly contrived and cliche-ridden with nondescript characters, weak plot and lacklustre fight scenes. i mean i wasn't expecting a huge amount of quality but it's a goddamn western with aliens starring james bond & indiana jones! from the director of iron man too, which i loved. but it tries too hard to be serious and fails spectacularly. avoid
#4465 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2011/11/30 00:48:27
Thor
Odd decision to cast a 6 by 3 foot block of plywood in the leading actor role. Even more odd to see lovely lovely Natalie Portman rubbing herself against aforementioned plywood. She does a convincing portrayal of a astro-physicist though. NAAATTTT
#4466 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2011/11/30 02:08:08
Rise of the Planet of the Apes
Ditto rj
Midnight in Paris
Owen Wilson stars as Owen Wilson in this whimsical manifestation of Woody Allen wanking himself with early 20th century american novels. The plot centres around Owen Wilson, who portrays a hollywood scriptwriter with a fetish for 1920s Paris. Unfortunately this boner is not indulged by Rachel McAdams in her dramatic turn as the insufferable cunt wife character.
The couple visit Paris, and their differences become increasingly apparent as by midnight Owen is transported into a magical 1920s dreamland where, nightly, he attempts to fingerbang Ernest Hemingway and write the next great American novel. Meanwhile McAdams stays home, charging items to Owen's credit card and entertaining the movie-going public by enacting a great range of cunty behaviours and actions.
But is his wife really Ms. Right? I mean really the girl for him? For a time it is hard for Wilson to see clearly, so drawn is he by her endearingly shitty demeanour, but time makes fools of us all. Like sands in the hourglass, so are the days of our lives.
The film dwells with the transience of being, the ebb and flow of time and self - the warm glow of nostalgia, and the dank afterglow of banging a french girl and then not calling her back because the phone hasn't been invented yet. Why do we look backwards, and what does it mean to be truly present? Was the director truly present for the filming of this feature, or was it outsourced to India?
What would we do if presented with an opportunity to live in a different time, a bygone age? Would we take a coathanger to Woody Allen's mother in a desperate attempt to prevent Midnight in Paris from ever existing? It's a difficult, intriguing question, with many different opinions in response, most of which being variations of "Yes we would".
5/5
#4467 posted by mwh [120.136.5.22] on 2011/11/30 03:01:43
Contagion
Well made film, not sure I've ever seen someone have "make the science look vaguely realistic" a bigger priority than "follow dramatic conventions" before. I went to see this with a bunch of people who work in emergency management and predictably enough loved it :)
Monsters
Fun film that did not look like it was made for about 5p -- although seeing the 'making of' explain how they made it by driving randomly around mexico finding locations and shooting scenes there did explain why some of it felt so disjointed...
Green Lantern.
#4468 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.18] on 2011/11/30 10:18:18
Excellent review :D
Starbuck
#4469 posted by nitin [124.168.202.50] on 2011/11/30 12:51:27
is Midnight in Paris really that bad?
Community Season 1
#4470 posted by nitin [124.168.202.50] on 2011/11/30 12:52:28
funniest show since Arrested Development aired IMHO. A bit rough around the edges but loved most of the season.
Nitin
#4471 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2011/11/30 16:18:44
you can probably ignore that last paragraph, in all seriousness, it's a 3/5... not that smart but kinda silly and likeable. I have gone off Rachel McAdams though. I'm sure when she reads that she'll be very upset.
#4472 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/12/01 07:25:46
I've gone off every single Woody Allen movie having the lead character act like a stuttering fuckwit just like every character Woody himself ever played. Which is basically himself.
Black Swan is indeed an awesome movie.
In Time
#4473 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.16.80.21] on 2011/12/08 04:38:58
I enjoyed it. Andrew Niccol (Gattaca, Truman Show) writes classic style 'what if' sci-fi (bit like Philip K Dick or Isaac Asimov). In this case, Time is literally money. Aging has been completely stopped, and everyone has a clock on their arm that starts ticking down from the age of 25. You can just hold hands and instantly trade units of time (and it is stolen equally easily, which is a bit silly!) If your time reaches zero, you die instantly. If you're rich, you can live forever. If you're poor, every day is a fight to add those precious minutes and hours to your clock.
No attempt is made to hide the comparison to modern capitalism and society (it's mentioned in dialogue repeatedly) so if you're more of a pro-market type then you'd probably want to watch this as much as I want to watch Atlas Shrugged.
It's interesting to see a sort of left-wing leaning action film though. And in a world where stuff as silly as the Dark Knight gets rave reviews I don't know why critics have such a problem with it.
It's simple, well made, doesn't outstay it's welcome, has some tense scenes and fun character exchanges and I think Niccol has a lot of fun with the world he creates... oh and I couldn't get over the fact that the main character looks like Cole from Infamous :p
Few Random Ones
#4474 posted by Tronyn [24.79.116.78] on 2011/12/08 06:10:17
recent adaptations of "Jane Eyre" (8.5/10) and "Dorian Gray" (7.5/10) - both good! Jane Eyre was handled better, but I felt that the 42% on RT that Dorian Gray got was totally unjustified. There were a few bad choices but come on, look at the shit that gets squeezed through the hollywood system every day, Dorian Gray had good casting, good acting, a great score, and it captured the moral of the story.
"The Rise and Fall of the Russian Oligarchs" - well, what I DID appreciate was candid interviews with really rich, selfish men who were just like yeah, A was a logical chess move so I did A. America looks a little less corrupt in comparison - but it looks a lot more hypocritical!
In Time
#4475 posted by negke [31.18.187.170] on 2011/12/08 10:21:39
Haven't watched it, but it sounds a lot like Logan's Run, non?
#4476 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.16.80.21] on 2011/12/08 12:24:42
Yeah a friend of mine had the same thought. It's a chase movie, feels a bit like Minority Report in places too imo.
It ain't Stalker but it's a fun film :p
So You Mean
#4477 posted by nitin [124.168.127.240] on 2011/12/08 12:29:50
the leads are actually watchable? I was interested but those three leads are pretty bland.
Tronyn, how good is Fassbender and shame he is wasted in crap like X Men First Class.
#4478 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.17.112.116] on 2011/12/08 13:23:04
I think it was fine if you compare it to other recent action films and not proper hard sci-fi. It's central idea is silly but it's heart is in the right place.
Main characters didn't bother me, but they are very stock and not at all memorable. I was more interested in where he was going with it. Certainly fine to say that the characters are dull.
It is a very silly idea but people don't have a problem with this in stuff like Inception so whatever.
America looks a little less corrupt in comparison - but it looks a lot more hypocritical!
You should watch The Trap documentary by Adam Curtis. It has a section on the fall of the soviet union and how the west moved in and by insane economic moves created the Oligarchs and in turn led the country to Putin.
In fact you should pretty much watch anything by Adam Curtis ever, it's all good :)
Fair Enough
#4479 posted by nitin [124.168.127.240] on 2011/12/08 13:30:26
will watch it. I just think Niccol is a better writer than director (Lord of War being a case in point). Whereas I rate Nolan as a better filmmaker than writer making plot silliness more forgivable.
#4480 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.17.112.116] on 2011/12/08 14:02:34
Yeah that's fair enough, it's very unremarkable in that way, and Niccol is a very samey director.
tbh a colaboration between them would be interesting. I think Nolan is losing his way a bit since the Prestiege :/
In Time
#4481 posted by RickyT23 [90.220.150.150] on 2011/12/08 17:47:28
Justin Timberlake (lol) is actually not too bad at acting. HE has a great moment where you drop to your knees and scream:
"NOOOOOOO!O!OO!O!O!O!!!!!!!&q...
It's wasn't that convincing, but you could tell that he tried :D :D :D
Overall I enjoyed the film.
Let's Make Money
#4482 posted by Drew [216.252.88.82] on 2011/12/08 18:11:22
has anyone seen this doc? It's german, but with english subtitles. I definitely reccomend looking it up to get an interesting glimpse of the current world economic market. Some really REALLY interesting scenes and locations, and also interesting talking heads. if you like talking heads.
Re Nolan
#4483 posted by Drew [216.252.88.82] on 2011/12/08 18:12:03
yes
Rango
#4484 posted by nitin [124.168.127.240] on 2011/12/10 03:23:09
just realised I didnt pimp this, excellent little animated flick that didnt get as much coverage as it should have. Probably because its borderline unmarketable with most of its (rather quirky) jokes coming through clever dialogue and characterisation rather than visual gags.
Riffs a lot of classic movies too including a priceless setpiece moulded on the Flight of the Valyries invasion from Apocalpyse Now.
#4485 posted by Spirit [80.171.157.135] on 2011/12/10 13:12:51
Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
Great humour, sometimes hard to get, dragging, weird ending, did not get the german guy himself. Not the masterpiece I expected but definitely a good movie I will probably see again.
She's out of my league (2010)
Watched this as motiv--- no wait. I like teen romance comedies. This one was pretty good. Ultra hot Alice Eve (might know her from Big Nothing). Liked it!
Slackers (2002)
Kinda dark humor teen comedy romance thing. Social fucktard blackmails exam cheaters to get him a girl. Was really nice until later. Sucked badly then. 4/10.
Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Fun. Not great but good. And feel-good too.
#4486 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/12/11 10:59:38
I watched Little Miss Sunshine twice and find it quite overated. It's pretty dull and not really that charming.
I didn't like Dr Strangelove the first time I saw it. Maybe I was too young. But the second time I loved it.
Haven't seen She's Out of My League or Slackers.
Started watching Kingdom Hospital. I'm not Stephen Kings biggest fan - he's done some brilliant stuff, but he's also done a lot of garbage. Only up to episode 4, it's pretty good so far. Not spectacular - but fully deserving of a 10.30 timeslot. Would be interesting to see Lars Von Trier's version of Kingdom Hospital, the original version.
Anyone seen both King's Kingdom Hospital and Lars' The Kingdom?
Random Vimeo
#4487 posted by Spirit [80.171.97.133] on 2011/12/11 11:28:25
dark and evil http://vimeo.com/33061861
french and funny http://vimeo.com/7600831
big and stenchy http://vimeo.com/2695298
Sorority Pillow Fight! http://vimeo.com/21351070
Lol
#4488 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2011/12/11 14:31:42
The last are awesome !!
I Meant
#4489 posted by JPL [82.234.167.238] on 2011/12/11 14:32:31
the TWO last are awesome :P
#4490 posted by Drew [205.233.80.115] on 2011/12/11 17:25:00
http://www.tinymixtapes.com/featur...
Contains Some Spoilers
#4491 posted by Drew [205.233.80.115] on 2011/12/11 17:27:07
re super, the skin I live in, antichrist, I saw the devil (a lil bit), possibly others.
A Serbian Film
#4492 posted by Drew [205.233.80.115] on 2011/12/11 17:31:31
if you want to watch that, don't read the above.
What?!
#4493 posted by SleepwalkR [85.179.42.14] on 2011/12/11 20:45:25
Sorry
#4494 posted by Drew [205.233.80.115] on 2011/12/12 08:21:05
"A Serbian Film" is the name of a film. Made in Serbia.
I've Been Recommended To Watch That
#4495 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2011/12/13 00:26:54
with the supporting statement "you'll totally vomit bro"
Yeah
#4496 posted by Drew [216.252.92.136] on 2011/12/13 05:06:45
I have seen it. you might.
+1 To Watching A Serbian Film And Vomiting
#4497 posted by RickyT23 [86.165.227.172] on 2011/12/13 12:38:44
I watched it. The uber-contraversial scene (er, isn't that just the whole second half of the movie, lol, but seriously) with the baby - well, It was almost as though they threw that in there, just to get people talking about the movie (or writing to their local MPs).
The film itself is actually quite well acted and shot. And there is a classic scene where the lead characted kills a male, using a method which I dont think I have seen before in a movie.
Also - dont watch with your GF in the room, even if she isn't watching the movie. She will over-hear the movie, and then accuse you of watching a porno. And you will feel cheated, because trust me braw - it aint no porno.
Luther
#4498 posted by nitin [124.168.127.240] on 2011/12/13 13:12:52
overly silly but entertaining as hell UK crime show with Stringer Bill playing a cliche morally compromised detective.
Dripping with atmosphere and Elba is magnetic but you have to be able to look past formulaic characters and plotting. If you can, very enjoyable ride.
Okay
#4499 posted by SleepwalkR [85.178.50.193] on 2011/12/13 19:02:09
on behalf of all semi-adjusted people, fuck you for promoting such garbage.
Read The Link I Posted Then
#4500 posted by Drew [216.252.92.136] on 2011/12/13 22:06:55
don't worry, you won't get spammed with baby rape.
PS
#4501 posted by Drew [216.252.92.136] on 2011/12/13 22:19:14
A quote from the sick fuck working for the NY Times who reviewed this movie:
What you make of this spectacle — which is filmed, not without skill, in slick and lurid widescreen composition — will depend to some extent on how you interpret the movie’s title, with its deadpan implication of typicality. “A Serbian Film” refers both to Mr. Spasojevic’s movie and also, perhaps more directly, to the movie inside it, which Vukmir envisions as a transcendent expression of Serbia’s national identity. The framing tale, with its allusions to the Balkan wars of the 1990s and the greed and political corruption that followed, can thus be seen as a piece of corrosive social criticism, exposing a national psychology of sadism, misogyny and self-pity. That it may also be an example of those things is no contradiction. “That is cinema!” Vukmir exclaims as his masterpiece reaches its unspeakably savage climax. “That is film!” It’s hard to argue, even though this Serbian film is almost as hard to watch.
I think some might be giving the movie too much, or too little credit. I'm not sure yet.
I Have No Intention Of Watching It Again
#4502 posted by RickyT23 [2.223.172.226] on 2011/12/14 02:23:30
None.
Sounds Like Gaspar Noé Movie
#4503 posted by negke [31.18.169.132] on 2011/12/14 10:26:59
Nothing you would want to watch on Christmas Eve.
So Has Anyone Else Seen Louie
#4504 posted by nitin [203.158.37.95] on 2011/12/23 08:57:57
I just got through Season 1, a bit hit and miss overall but I really like where it goes sometimes and how Louis C.K. seems to have total creative control.
Looking forward to season 2.
Re: 4498
#4505 posted by Tronyn [174.2.53.28] on 2011/12/23 11:37:34
Elba was amazing as Bell, but it's his businessman-like coolness in The Wire that gives him this big edge whereas there aren't so many black gangster roles available in wide-opening movies (despite real facts about how often a gangster in America ought to be black, not leonardo dicaprio). First they talk about Elba playing Bond (he'd be awesome) and then they talk about Elba playing Batman (again, he'd be awesome). But, awesome as Elba is it's like they're picking a black guy without any quote unquote black mannerisms or language which might alienate soccer moms.
Totally back to the subject at hand, I'll watch a serbian film, I mean I won't subject myself to shit that's disgusting for me to handle, beyond a certain point, if I'm convinced it has no point. But if the director convinces me it has a point I'll watch. Which leaves open the possibility of a giant hoax on people with this attitude... but whatever.
Anyone Going To Watch This New Ridley Scott Flick?
#4506 posted by bear [83.250.35.120] on 2011/12/23 11:55:12
http://www.youtube.com/watch?featu...
Yes Sir
#4507 posted by nitin [203.158.37.95] on 2011/12/23 12:12:11
might be shit but its the best shot at a good Aliens film, rather than say AvP 3.
Louie
#4508 posted by starbuck [92.237.129.204] on 2011/12/24 17:39:15
Louis CK not only has full creative control, but edits the episodes himself on his laptop! Honestly I think the show doesn't match up to his stand-up, which is amazing, but it's worth a watch.
Just Watched Season 1 On Netflix
#4509 posted by jt_ [174.252.226.154] on 2011/12/24 17:46:23
And couldn't stop laughing.
Metropolis
#4510 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/12/24 22:26:50
Anyone seen the 2001 anime Metropolis? 10/10 fantastic movie. If I were a director and just had to remake a movie for yankee viewers, as they do, then I'd remake this as a live action.
I think it just needed a bit more exploration/adventure and little less back and forth of the robot between goodies/baddies.
Starbuck
#4511 posted by nitin [124.170.36.84] on 2011/12/25 09:29:03
yeah doesnt surprise me, wears its low fi heart on its sleeve IMHO.
Just finished Akira for the first time, quite an experience! Easily the best anime film I've seen, although the last 20 min seemed a little rushed IMHO.
Also saw Hanna last night, brilliant sound design and some wonderful visuals but script was a little too pedestrian.
The Illusionist And The Adjustment Bureau
#4512 posted by nitin [124.170.36.84] on 2011/12/26 08:45:17
the first is a beautiful animated film from Sylvain Chomet that is even better than his brilliant Triplets of Belleville. The hand drawn animation is gorgeous (especially in HD) and I just love how he gives character to every little detail in the frame. Has more heart than most live action films I have seen recently.
As for Adjustment Bureau, utterly ridiculous and a rubbish last act but very entertaining thanks to the chemistry between the two leads and some striking visuals from John Toll. I didnt bat an eyelid at Damon searching for Blunt for 3 years, Elise was perfectly played.
AB.
#4513 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.18] on 2011/12/27 17:21:07
I enjoyed it a lot. Best romantic film I've seen.
Elise was rad, I totally fell in love with her on the bus.
This.
#4514 posted by Shambler [86.25.223.18] on 2011/12/27 17:42:33
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0t...
#4515 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2011/12/28 09:42:53
For those that haven't seen it, Batman: Dead End
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zn...
The Grayson trailer is also quite cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiZ...
Shambles
#4516 posted by nitin [124.170.36.84] on 2011/12/28 11:09:27
totally get where you are coming from re Elise.
Too Late
#4517 posted by starbuck [92.237.129.204] on 2011/12/28 17:42:28
I already shotgunned her
The Maltese Falcon
#4518 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2012/01/11 01:08:26
Daaaaaaaaaaaamn.
Pretty much flawless if you like noir. Only thing I felt was low was the love story between Bogart and Astor, not that it was bad, just felt under developed.
[out Of Topic] This Maltese Falcon ???
#4519 posted by JPL [82.227.229.44] on 2012/01/11 10:04:52
http://www.symaltesefalcon.com/
Out of topic, but what a nice boat. I saw it once in Cannes Bay, it was simply awesome... even more when you know a single man is able to drive it, as all sails, masts, etc.. are automated... :P
Zwiffle
#4520 posted by nitin [124.148.189.42] on 2012/01/11 11:38:22
have you seen The Big Sleep yet? or Out of the Past? or The Killers?
Almost all of those at Maltese level IMHO.
Ahhh I Gotta Rewatch The Big Sleep
#4521 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2012/01/11 17:15:43
One of my favourites, and one of the best scripts ever if you ask me, which you didn't.
#4522 posted by Zwiffle [97.87.57.94] on 2012/01/11 17:50:45
No I haven't seen any of those yet. Netflix does not have them streaming, so until then I will have to satisfy myself with a lot of their other noir films (I think I have 6 or 7 in my queue anyway.) Or download them through tpb or something.
Zwiffle
#4523 posted by nitin [124.170.24.199] on 2012/01/11 22:53:34
http://www.dvdaf.com/search.html?g...
Pretty Much All Are Worth Watching
#4524 posted by nitin [124.170.24.199] on 2012/01/11 23:11:07
except maybe Beyond a Reasonable Doubt and You Only Live Once.
#4525 posted by Spirit [80.171.159.42] on 2012/01/14 12:15:12
Finally watched The Godfather yesterday. I was a bit afraid that it would not nearly be as good as the general concensus suggested but it absolutely lived up to my expectations. It was quite complex and some parts were hard to follow, so I will see it again. Can't wait to see 2 and 3.
#4526 posted by Tronyn [24.79.201.144] on 2012/01/15 17:35:29
2 is at least the equal of 1, 3 is a notorious letdown by popular consensus, but I still enjoyed it. Its portrayal of the church was interesting.
Dancer in the Dark - Since I thought Antichrist and Melancholia were good I decided to check out some of Von Trier's earlier stuff, but despite a few standout scenes this wasn't very good, the acting was good and the setting was convincing but it's obviously lowish budget, fairly melodramatic, and weird in having it a musical (although points for trying something different I guess). Hopefully Dogville is better.
The Adjustment Bureau - Well the scifi stuff makes no sense at all, but then Phillip K Dick was never really about science, more about just coming up with some crazy idea first and inventing some halfass scifi justification afterwards if at all (not that there's anything wrong with that). Really good performances from the leads, the start where the Emily Blunt (hot) makes fun of him then he makes the speech about how ridiculous politics and marketing is, was awesome. Seeing the Daily Show sections was weird. Overall, it was good, but not that original (anyone see "Source Code"?). Parts of it reminded me of Dark City. I think my favourite part was thinking that in this, Source Code and Dark City, some guy has to convince his girlfriend that he isn't crazy, even though he keeps saying things, and behaving in ways, that make him seem like the craziest bastard ever: "Oh so you're one of THEM! I knew it!" "Don't worry, he wasn't human anyway" "None of this is real!" and my favouite from Source Code right after he grabs the gun, "Do you trust me enough to follow me, even if I am about do something that looks really dangerous?"
Awesome subgenre. Make more. Though why don't they ever make it the woman who knows that some crazy scifi scenario is happening, and the man who thinks she's crazy.
Couple More
#4527 posted by Tronyn [24.79.201.144] on 2012/01/15 17:39:00
"We never met before, none of what we think happened did, someone just WANTS US TO THINK IT DID"
and
(throwing a bunch of pictures off a table) "IT MEANS THESE ARE ALL LIES!"
paranoia is one of my favourite aspects of movies
Yeah.
#4528 posted by Shambler [86.25.165.104] on 2012/01/15 19:20:41
I liked Source Code a lot.
Tronyn
#4529 posted by Nitin [49.199.237.224] on 2012/01/16 00:26:43
Dogville is better but the aesthetic takes a little getting used to. Europa is his best IMHO.
Spirit, why are you suddenly watching good movies? Mid life crisis :)
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy & Paprika
#4530 posted by bear [83.250.35.120] on 2012/01/16 14:50:12
Tinker tailor...: Worth watching at the silver screen due to nice photography. I felt satisfied having gone to see it early on just because of the visuals and good soundtrack. Spy movies aren't really my favorite genre but this one is really well done with good attention to details.
Paprika: Very good, maybe a few tired anime clichés. For some reason I imagined it could work as a Hollywood re-make... Think I saw a Secret of Mana reference?
Yeah Want To See Tinker Tailor
#4531 posted by nitin [124.170.49.96] on 2012/01/17 14:24:37
looks good.
Hugo (2011)
#4532 posted by nitin [124.170.49.96] on 2012/01/17 14:27:19
I dont say this lightly, especially since Tree of Life came out in the same year and I saw that three times at the cinemas, but this is not only the best 2011 release I've seen but easily one of the greatest films I've seen.
Go watch it. In 3D. Even if you hate 3D, if only to understand why, despite spending all his days counting all the money he made from Avatar, James Cameron secretly cries at night.
#4533 posted by ZealousQuakeFan [82.16.80.21] on 2012/01/18 02:06:06
It's well worth watching the original TV series of Tinker Tailor and Smiley's People, they're fantastic. Smiley's People is probably better of the two, it's even bleaker and the characters are explored brilliantly.
Nitin: Secretely?
#4534 posted by bear [213.66.125.78] on 2012/01/18 12:27:05
from imdb: "I attended the DGA screening over the weekend, followed by a Q&A moderated by James Cameron. Cameron's first words (after correctly referring to Scorsese as "maestro"), were "I thought we'd just geek out over 3D for a half hour, but having seen the movie... it's a masterpiece." I brought my ten year old daughter, who sat -- if anything -- even more transfixed than I did. Every single image is arresting, the use of 3D is perfection itself, the story is engaging and thrilling and heartbreaking and uplifting and I never wanted it to end. If only it'd be three hours! All the performances are excellent, including the kids. Great British actors appear in roles with only a line or two, but it helps lift the movie into the realm of Instant Classic, and Sacha Baron Cohen brings nuance and heart to his humorous role as the Station Inspector. On the way to the car my daughter asked if we could get the blu-ray when it's available, and I had the same feeling as well."
Bear
#4535 posted by nitin [124.170.49.96] on 2012/01/19 09:46:27
haha, maybe not so secretly after all :)
Going again tomorrow night.
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo
#4536 posted by RickyT23 [81.155.201.207] on 2012/01/23 11:56:28
I HATE all these douchebags who wont watch a film just because it has subtitles.
Hearing the natural accent of the ACTORS is half of the effect of any acting.
I will NEVER watch the fucking AMERICAN BULLSHIT remake of TGWTDT, because I have too much respect for the creators and stars of the three Sweedish films.
It just fucking bums me out how someone can make three tremendous movies, but because it was popular it has to be spoon fed to a bunch of morons who probably cant understand the plot anyway.
/rant
Ricky
#4537 posted by nitin [202.161.23.4] on 2012/01/23 12:19:34
to be fair the remake is helmed by Fincher and the original movie, even though its good, has a fair bit that can be improved upon.
The last two movies are a different story, IMHO they are pretty bad :)
On another note, saw Rise of the Planet of the Apes. Blockbuster makers, please take note. This should serve as a basic template to get them right.
Although
#4538 posted by nitin [202.161.23.4] on 2012/01/23 12:20:03
in general, I support your rant against the lack of interest in subtitled movies.
#4539 posted by Spirit [89.204.138.81] on 2012/01/23 13:51:19
godfather 2 was confusing and boring that we switched to some awful reality show after an hour.
Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes
#4540 posted by SleepwalkR [141.20.193.75] on 2012/01/23 15:11:58
Couldn't agree more. This was one of the very few good major movies I have seen recently. It proves that you can make a blockbuster that does not repeat the same clichés and plot devices over again and that has deep, intereting characters and dilemmas.
Also, you can't praise Andy Serkis enough. And the people who did the creature effects in this movie. Plus it has some nice references to the original Planet of the Apes without rubbing them bluntly in your face. Recommended!
Ps the icon is a gorilla!
Addendum
#4541 posted by SleepwalkR [141.20.193.45] on 2012/01/23 15:19:48
I love how this movie mirrors the original movie, that's also why the references are so nicely done.
#4542 posted by rj [86.29.94.69] on 2012/01/23 19:27:56
I HATE all these douchebags who wont watch a film just because it has subtitles.
i chose not to watch the original TGWTDT. not because of the subtitles, but because i knew Fincher was behind the remake & would in all probability put out a superior movie, regardless of language
on the other hand (staying with US remakes of swedish films) i avoided 'let me in' when it came out because the original had gotten better reviews. i then saw the original and enjoyed it
i guess you could argue the remake wouldn't exist if it weren't for those so-called douchebags but writing it off as bullshit for that reason alone seems about as silly as writing off anything with subtitles ;)
Watch The Films
#4543 posted by RickyT23 [2.223.172.220] on 2012/01/23 19:44:02
Then tell me that re-making them isn't an insult.
<sarcasm> Films are always better when people who would be speaking Swedish are speaking English. </sarcasm>
Anyway, if Cowboys and Aliens was anything to go by with regards to that dick who plays the journalist, the remake of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo will be garbage.
The Irony!
#4544 posted by Spirit [80.171.96.228] on 2012/01/23 20:04:08
Not Worth It...
#4545 posted by rj [86.29.94.69] on 2012/01/23 20:08:22
Aww
#4546 posted by Spirit [80.171.96.228] on 2012/01/23 20:50:36
Since we on the topic of "foreign" movies, what kind of german movies do you guys know (and like)? Some random recommendations:
23
Bang Boom Bang
Das Boot (obviously. the uncut one!)
Im Juli
Lammbock
Lola rennt
Schtonk!
Sonnenallee
Was nicht passt wird passend gemacht
I've Only Seen A Few
#4547 posted by metlslime [159.153.4.50] on 2012/01/23 20:55:41
das boot
run lola run
goodbye lenin
the lives of others
downfall
...actually that's all i can think of. But they were all good, so I guess Germans only make good movies.
#4548 posted by Spirit [80.171.96.228] on 2012/01/23 21:08:18
Oooh, I forgot
Erbsen auf halb 6
Metlslime
#4549 posted by rj [86.29.94.69] on 2012/01/23 21:14:14
two words: uwe boll ;)
Girl With A Dragon With A Tattoo Of A Girl
#4550 posted by starbuck [94.194.57.126] on 2012/01/24 00:58:02
Only saw the United States approved Fincher version, and I thought it was rather good actually. Never saw the original. Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara are both splendid. Slightly drags a bit, but whatever. Got me reading the books.
As for remakes that actually pain me - Vanilla Sky is the textbook pointless remake. In most every way it's way worse, despite being copied scene-for-scene (as far as I remember).
Well
#4551 posted by Tronyn [24.79.201.144] on 2012/01/24 02:35:11
the problem is that the American movie industry is extremely risk-averse. That's why they put out so many remakes of foreign films, remakes of their own films from 10 years ago, sequels, prequels, and spinoffs. It's retarded, it's ridiculous, and I'll have no sympathy for any anti-piracy efforts of theirs until they actually start producing something good. If they produce something good I buy it. But usually they don't. I'm all for films with subtitles, I even think that what Mel Gibson did with Apocalypto was great, that is using subtitles. It certainly beats the American approach: "well, it's the past, or it's not here, so we'll just give everyone British accents - the British were before us right? and they're not here right?" dumbasses.
#4552 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2012/01/24 09:27:09
it's not so much hollywood's fault, it's the people that go see the movies. people go see what they know and like, hollywood know that, so they have to stick with existing franchises. there's rarely anything completely new at the top of the box office because people don't know what it is, so they won't pay to see it. hollywood just plays it safe all the time.
i mean we all raved about the dark knight... but batman is probably one of the oldest and most rehashed ip's there is in hollywood. honestly, how many times do I really have to see batman vs joker.
Sleepy
#4553 posted by nitin [124.148.161.187] on 2012/01/24 10:34:18
yeah, my favorite tie in bit to the old movie was the clever inversion of the impact of the "get your paws off me..." line.
Spirit, cannot believe you typed that. Please tell me you were taking the piss.
Ricky, the argument about watching before slagging can be applied to the remake too. Now generally I agree remakes suck, but when the right people are involved, I dont mind. Daniel Craig is a weird choice but we both know these films are about Lisbeth and by all accounts, Rooney Mara is great, despite how good Noomi Rapace was.
Speaking of Noomi, also saw Sherlock Holmes 2. She is totally wasted in her english language debut. As for the movie, some fine character interaction but unfortunately not enough of it because Guy Ritchie cant keep his camera still and also feels the need to break up dialogue as soon as is possible.
The Response To Spirit
#4554 posted by nitin [124.148.161.187] on 2012/01/24 10:36:02
was directed at his Godfather 2 comment btw.
Also good german movies that havent been mentioned: The Counterfeiters and most of Fassbinder's older stuff.
Fair Enough [Kona]
#4555 posted by Tronyn [24.79.201.144] on 2012/01/25 00:35:39
it's not like I'm not looking forward to TDKR and Prometheus the most out of any movies coming out this year. But 2007 had No Country for Old Men, Assassination of Jesse James, There Will Be Blood, etc, all based on previous stories but still, there are sooo many good books that they could do adaptations of rather than remaking foreign films which I'd usually rather see with subtitles anyway.
#4556 posted by [Kona] [121.73.104.148] on 2012/01/25 10:49:08
Actually I was considering book to movie adaptions as unoriginal as well. How often does Hollywood come up with a good BRAND new IP... not based on a comic, book, toy, cartoon, foreign movie, or previous movie?
Yup i'm looking forward to TDKR and Prometheus heaps as well!!! I don't mind Hollywood's unoriginality that much anyway. It bothers me more in the gaming market though, but then that's nowhere near as bad as Hollywood. And id made Rage. A new IP, holy shitballs.
Girl With A Dragoooon
#4557 posted by bear [217.115.56.186] on 2012/01/25 13:05:13
I watched part of the original but turned it off because I couldn't stand it...
Not sure what makes the material into an international bestseller.
#4558 posted by Spirit [89.204.154.122] on 2012/02/04 00:40:28
In Time
stupid. felt like a random potpourri of single good scenes with bad filling. incoherent unconvincing setting. some scenes felt like theater.a lot of idiotic bullshit. pompous lines. time keeper guy look and moved silly. old time cars that make sounds like starship. nice music. huge disappointment.
#4559 posted by Spirit [80.171.97.132] on 2012/02/04 11:22:37
I forgot to add:
It is silly like Aeon Flux but without anything boner-inducing. Unless you like Justin Timberlake I guess.

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