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Reviews
The Way of the Gun (2000)
Film Noir for the 21st Century
I'll start off by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed The Way Of The Gun. It was everything I was expecting it to be from one of the most creative writers in the business. This is precisely the kind of movie I like to watch after a summer full of crappy megabudgeted, special effects laden "movies" that are written by commitee. The direction and writing by McQuarrie were superb. The shootouts were outstandingly kinetic and had great panache but did not ape John Woo's or anyone else's style. Many seem to complain that this film is too long and it drags between the major setpieces. I can understand how impatient viewers would feel this way but I think if you are a fan of well written films(specially if it's a genre flick)like myself you will be riveted to your seat and enjoy the ride greatly. If however, you don't have the stomach for violence and "powerful" language then stay away. It's a shame that such a good film has not found an audience outside of the hard core film fan set of movie goers. The entire cast from Juliette Lewis to her dad Geoffrey Lewis was excellent but I think the standout performances were delivered by Benicio Del Toro, James Caan and Taye Diggs. I don't know why the hell Mr. Del Toro isn't more well known. He is without a doubt one of the most natural and original actors working today. He's able to convey more information about his character without uttering a word than most of the members of the $20 million actor's club. What it would take a lesser performer two minutes of dialogue to express Mr. Del Toro does with one look or movement. I hope he finds the success he deserves. James Caan is his usual brilliant self and brings a lot of depth to his role as the bagman between the protagonists and their goals. Taye Diggs continues to make great acting choices. I've only seen him in a few films but it's obvious this actor has taste in choosing scripts. He makes a character who is not likable in the least seem human and capable of reflection. Even though this movie has no good guys but only varying degrees of bad you root for the Del Toro and Ryan Phillipe. One of the great things about living in a democracy is that everyone is entitled to their opinion. However, I would like to correct the reviewer who stated that this film was an unprofessional mess. In regards to the four times you saw boomikes during the film. THIS IS NOT THE FILMAKER'S FAULT BUT THE MOVIE THEATER PROJECTIONIST'S. I saw this film on two ocassions in two different theaters and DID NOT encounter such a problem. Obviously the projectionist did not frame the screen properly to display the correctly. The film was shot in full negative but intended to be displayed in theaters matted at an 1.85:1 aspect ratio. I'm sure that in today's dvd culture even the most backwards WalMart shopperr is aware of different widescreen proportions but I don't think most know the difference between a film shot in The American Flat Standard with an open (soft) matte and one shot with a hard matte. If you want to know a little more just do a little research on the net. Disliking or liking a film is everyone's perogative but acusing professionals of incomptence is quite another. Know what you are talking about before critisizing someone's hard work.
Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
Excellent. A thrilling final chapter to Kubrick's legacy.
There is little to say other than if you consider yourself a film fan then you must watch this film. It's that simple. This movie reminded me why I love going to the movie theatre. Sheer perfection.
Drive (1997)
Finally, a low budget action film that delivers the goods
After years of watching the most blatantly stupid straight-to-video action films this turns up. Without a doubt the best U.S. produced martial arts movie I've seen. The stunt co-ordinator and stunt team are right up there with their Hong Kong counterparts. It's good to see that Dacascos is finally given a chance to shine; I always thought that he was better than the material that was given to him and here he is able to prove it. Woodbine also shines in what is basically an odd couple/buddy action flick. The rapport of the two actors rises the movie over the cliched screenplay. The action scenes were very kenetic and fluid Steve Wang did a kick-**s job. Go rent it now.
Starship Troopers (1997)
A 10, Violent, funny, intelligent; classic Verhoeven.
To all the idiots out there who have accused this film of being pro nazi; get a f*****g clue. This film parodies fascist ideals and doctrines but unfortunately most viewers are too stupid to be in on the joke. The film makers present us with an enemy that's easy to hate and boo but also show us how human arrogance is the real cause of the war since it's basically our fault that a state of war exists between us and the bugs. As in that other Pual Verhoeven classic Robocop what seems to only be a hyper-violent and fx laden film is really a forum for condemnation of fascist and militaristic ideals. Great script, great direction and acting. Highly recommended. A 10/10.
Hard Rain (1998)
**** the critics
I am sick and tired of critics mercilessly stomping on some movies while jumping on a bandwagon declaring drivel like Titanic a masterpiece. A perfect example of this was how Hard Rain was pounded on when it was released in January. While certainly not deserving any best picture awards; this film was nevertheless, highly entertaining. It had expertly shot action scenes and excellent visual effects coupled with a script that provided what's necessary for a good action yarn. It was also perfectly paced running a brisk and entertaining 96 minutes. Remember just because the critics don't like a film you shouldn't deprive yourself from being entertained. As far as I'm concerned this movie did its job by being very fun to watch. Recommended.