Star-47 Reviews

As Good as It Gets (1997)

Way to go, Jack!

[19 December 1998]

Jack Nicholson is simply phenomenal. Yes, I will give credit where it is due and congratulate Greg Kinnear, Helen Hunt, and Cuba Gooding, Jr, on their fine performances. They are talented. But I am mesmorized by Jack's intricate facial expressions and inflection each time I see this movie.

Critics panned this movie for being totally unbelievable. I would have to agree-why would Carol fall for Melvin? Why does Melvin change his ways after so many years of acid-tongued insults? I don't know. I know people who disliked the film because Melvin was such a you-know-what. Personally, I love the evil retorts he hurls at any innocent bystander. Maybe it's a sick pleasure, but Nicholson's delivery is perfect and I couldn't help but laugh as he takes on everyone.

While You Were Sleeping (1995)

Again and Again...it's still incredible

[19 December 1998]

I usually don't fall for romantic comedies, but I have seen WYWS every year' since it came out-twice each Christmas in fact. Yes, I've read pro. reviews and I agree the plot is rather predictable, some snippets of dialogue clunky, but overall this movie gets better with each viewing.

Reasons: Two-Sandra and Bill. Both are stunning performers individually, and together they are dynamite. Without hardly a kiss, they share this magnetism Hollywood is so hard-pressed to create these days. Their expressions, gestures, every moment of screen time is superb.

I especially love the "leaning" bit, the "objections" and of course that wrenching scene in Lucy's apartment. Also of note-Jack's illustrious family. Elsie, the grandma is a riot. They all are. My advice: Buy the movie. You can watch it anytime you like (I prefer the holiday season) and it never gets old. Sweetness wins again.

What Dreams May Come (1998)

Oh...it almost got me!

[18 December 1998]

Robin Williams is a jewel, but I left the theatre thinking I missed something. This film is undeniable eye candy, and just watching each new scene unfold is sheer delight (I even enjoyed some scenes from Hell-simply out of fascination, I assure you.) However, Dreams prepares us for a huge ending, when no such ending is to be had. I won't give it away, but I didn't believe it for a second and I went home wishing "Hollywood Endings" weren't standard practice today. Another thing: there is no climax to Dreams. Suddenly, it is over, all is resolved, the lights come up and it's time to drive home.

I recommend this movie because of its material beauty, not for its thrilling conclusion