The way Heidi treated her Vietnamese family was a travesty. Maybe it's because I come from a culturally diverse background and was raised to understand and accept cultural differences, but I thought it was common knowledge that in many cultures throughout the world a way to show love for your family is to help care for them financially if you are able. The fact that she took offense to her sister, who has a hole in the floor for a toilet, asking her for money was unbelievable. Instead of showing compassion for her family's situation, she showed nothing but contempt. She said, in effect, "I can't believe they live like this, but how dare they ask me for money to improve their lives?" I'm sure if she would have sent only $10 a month, it would have helped them considerably, but because her Vietnamese family didn't live up to her expectations, she wants nothing to do with them? I have never seen such coldheartedness. And to wipe off her mother's kisses! She had supposedly been starved for affection for 22 years from her adoptive mother, but after only 7 days with her real mother she was tired of her affection? She should have felt ashamed when she sat down to watch the finished documentary and saw her mother still in tears two years after her visit. I feel the utmost sympathy for Heidi's mother and the rest of her family, but I couldn't muster up any sympathy for Heidi... Actually, that's not true. I do feel sorry for Heidi that it wasn't part of her nature to love and accept her family no matter what. I know she was raised by a less- than- affectionate adoptive mother, but she is no longer an innocent 7-year-old. She is an adult who needs to understand and accept that her monetary and, much, much, more importantly, her emotional selfishness will have a lasting effect on many people.
Reviews
15 Reviews
Good!...(But Anakin's a Brat!)
17 May 2002
The biggest gripe I had with this movie was Hayden Christensen's performance, coupled with the way his character was written. Instead of Anakin being portrayed as a 20 year-old 'seemingly' mature young man struggling inside with his own 'dark' issues, he comes across as a 15 year-old brat whose voice hasn't changed yet. His 10 year old Phantom Menace counterpart was more mature! Since when is having temper tantrums considered to be an attractive quality? When he yelled, 'It's all Obi-Wan's fault!' I was like, 'What! OK, I've had enough of him. He needs a kick in the pants!', but they just had Padme fall for him even harder, which is totally beyond me. I know Hayden is 21 years old in real life, but he is a very young looking 21. He looks like he just got out of the 9th grade. They needed someone who looked older and could be more believable as a romantic lead and they should have written less hissy fits into the storyline (or how about no hissy fits at all?)....
OK, with THAT out of the way, AOTC was far and beyond better than TPM. Now THIS was a prequel! The storyline was good! (except for the aforementioned of course). I followed what was going on, and more importantly, I actually *cared* about what was going on! Without giving anything away, the biggest highlights of this movie (in no particular order) were: (1)Seeing where the Clones came from, (2)Watching Darth Sidious' strategy to rid the galaxy of the Jedi unfold and (3)Seeing the beginnings of some of the supporting actors from the sequels. That was great! The dialogue was cheesy, but I was expecting that. The special effects were amazing, although halfway through the movie, I think I began to take them for granted, which may be a good thing after all, since that means they were very believable. Oh! and how can I forget YODA! YODA! YODA! He completely *stole* the movie right out from under the live actors. He was unreal! I was apprehensive about him being CGI instead of the lovable puppet, but I forgot about that old piece of rubber as soon as I saw Yoda doing what he did in that movie! Because he was CGI, he could actually be a main character. Man, he was all over the place, literally! And as a woman, I must throw this little sidepoint in: Padme's costumes were absolutely stunning! If the costume designer doesn't win the Oscar next spring, it's a travesty!
I still think The Empire Strikes Back is the best of the Star Wars movies, but AOTC is up there with Return of the Jedi, in my opinion. I would give it 3 and 3/4 out of 5 stars. If the whole Anakin thing would have been better, I would have given it a 5.
OK, with THAT out of the way, AOTC was far and beyond better than TPM. Now THIS was a prequel! The storyline was good! (except for the aforementioned of course). I followed what was going on, and more importantly, I actually *cared* about what was going on! Without giving anything away, the biggest highlights of this movie (in no particular order) were: (1)Seeing where the Clones came from, (2)Watching Darth Sidious' strategy to rid the galaxy of the Jedi unfold and (3)Seeing the beginnings of some of the supporting actors from the sequels. That was great! The dialogue was cheesy, but I was expecting that. The special effects were amazing, although halfway through the movie, I think I began to take them for granted, which may be a good thing after all, since that means they were very believable. Oh! and how can I forget YODA! YODA! YODA! He completely *stole* the movie right out from under the live actors. He was unreal! I was apprehensive about him being CGI instead of the lovable puppet, but I forgot about that old piece of rubber as soon as I saw Yoda doing what he did in that movie! Because he was CGI, he could actually be a main character. Man, he was all over the place, literally! And as a woman, I must throw this little sidepoint in: Padme's costumes were absolutely stunning! If the costume designer doesn't win the Oscar next spring, it's a travesty!
I still think The Empire Strikes Back is the best of the Star Wars movies, but AOTC is up there with Return of the Jedi, in my opinion. I would give it 3 and 3/4 out of 5 stars. If the whole Anakin thing would have been better, I would have given it a 5.
The Landlord
(1970)
Surprising
12 November 2001
I was pleasantly surprised with the complexity of "The Landlord". It was brilliantly directed. The cutting between different scenes was effortless and added depth to the storyline. There was plenty of symbolism, which is one of the things I always look for and enjoy in a film. For instance, when Elgar (Bridges) and his father are having an argument in the bathroom during a costume party, there is a quick cutaway to another man in the bathroom who has on a gun holster, which I thought was symbolic of the 'shootout' that was going on between Elgar and his father. In addition, the Enders family is constantly seen wearing white, and their home is decorated in white.
I thought the acting was top notch. Beau Bridges was very convincing as a naive, sheltered man learning to appreciate and embrace a different culture. But the movie is so much deeper than that... It dealt with people trying to break free from stereotypes, people struggling to be proud of who they are and be accepted for who they are, and some people not even knowing who they are, trying to find their niche.
I love the scene at the party that was supposedly in honor of Elgar, where more than one person tells him what it feels like to go from being an outcast to being the envy of everyone. If I remember correctly, they likened it to you having a mole in the middle of your forehead, and people are basically disgusted by it. But, then one day, that becomes the thing to have, and people begin to draw moles on their faces, but you have a real mole right there on your forehead, prominent for everyone to see, and suddenly you are "it", and your self esteem is taken to new heights. It seems like everything would be fine for you now, but I also interpreted that speech as saying that, at the time, blacks felt like they were a fad that might eventually fade out. I thought the words were very powerful, as well as the way the scene was carried out.
I don't think a film such as this could be pulled off properly now, because there is the constant threat of backlash if things aren't completely "PC", not to mention the fact that things are so different now. I think this film was made at the right time, but it still rings true 31 years later. And, thank goodness for the satisfying and realistic ending.
I thought the acting was top notch. Beau Bridges was very convincing as a naive, sheltered man learning to appreciate and embrace a different culture. But the movie is so much deeper than that... It dealt with people trying to break free from stereotypes, people struggling to be proud of who they are and be accepted for who they are, and some people not even knowing who they are, trying to find their niche.
I love the scene at the party that was supposedly in honor of Elgar, where more than one person tells him what it feels like to go from being an outcast to being the envy of everyone. If I remember correctly, they likened it to you having a mole in the middle of your forehead, and people are basically disgusted by it. But, then one day, that becomes the thing to have, and people begin to draw moles on their faces, but you have a real mole right there on your forehead, prominent for everyone to see, and suddenly you are "it", and your self esteem is taken to new heights. It seems like everything would be fine for you now, but I also interpreted that speech as saying that, at the time, blacks felt like they were a fad that might eventually fade out. I thought the words were very powerful, as well as the way the scene was carried out.
I don't think a film such as this could be pulled off properly now, because there is the constant threat of backlash if things aren't completely "PC", not to mention the fact that things are so different now. I think this film was made at the right time, but it still rings true 31 years later. And, thank goodness for the satisfying and realistic ending.
Victoria & Albert
(2001)
Amazing!!!
29 October 2001
I am a HUGE fan of A&E originals, as well as Masterpiece Theatre. Two of my favorite movies of all time are "Pride and Prejudice" (1995), and "Wives and Daughters". I am now adding "Victoria and Albert" to my list of all time favorites. This movie was absolutely stunning! And, what's even more amazing is that, unlike the previous favorites I mentioned, "Victoria and Albert" is a TRUE story! As soon as I finished watching it, I immediately went online to try to find more information on Victoria and Albert, family photos, excerpts from their diaries, etc. I had always thought of Queen Victoria as a women of 75 or so, and in a wheelchair. To see the true story of her younger years was such a treat.
The story was told SO very eloquently. Jonathan Firth and Victoria Hamilton were outstanding! They breathed life into their characters. I felt connected to Victoria and Albert somehow after I finished watching the movie. I actually felt like I was watching their lives unfold. The supporting cast was unreal. This was a dream cast, if I've ever seen one. Absolutely NO ONE was miscast. Nigel Hawthorne, as Lord M, was wonderful. The scene were he has to say goodbye to Victoria was so touching. Seeing these two historical characters sharing a tearful goodbye, and a handkerchief, was simply beautiful. The scenes between Victoria and Albert were pure magic. I love the scene between the two of them over the game of chess. I just don't know what else to say, except that this movie was utterly brilliant. It's an amazing in-depth look into 19th century British politics, but, above all, it's a stunningly glorious story of TRUE love. I'm getting teary-eyed just thinking about it! Please, please, take the time to see "Victoria and Albert". If you don't like this movie, well... then you and I could never possibly be friends. I know it's a bit harsh, but there it is. :)
The story was told SO very eloquently. Jonathan Firth and Victoria Hamilton were outstanding! They breathed life into their characters. I felt connected to Victoria and Albert somehow after I finished watching the movie. I actually felt like I was watching their lives unfold. The supporting cast was unreal. This was a dream cast, if I've ever seen one. Absolutely NO ONE was miscast. Nigel Hawthorne, as Lord M, was wonderful. The scene were he has to say goodbye to Victoria was so touching. Seeing these two historical characters sharing a tearful goodbye, and a handkerchief, was simply beautiful. The scenes between Victoria and Albert were pure magic. I love the scene between the two of them over the game of chess. I just don't know what else to say, except that this movie was utterly brilliant. It's an amazing in-depth look into 19th century British politics, but, above all, it's a stunningly glorious story of TRUE love. I'm getting teary-eyed just thinking about it! Please, please, take the time to see "Victoria and Albert". If you don't like this movie, well... then you and I could never possibly be friends. I know it's a bit harsh, but there it is. :)
The Very Thought of You
(1998)
Two Words... Joseph. Fiennes.
29 October 2001
Yikes! Is Joseph Fiennes outstanding, or what??!!? Not only is he gorgeous, but he's the most talented, believable actor out right now. English actors are just IT for me. I'll take Joseph, Jude, Colin (Firth), Rufus, etc., over any of these American cookie cutter nonsense actors (Ben Affleck, Mark Wahlberg, etc). Joseph Fiennes is simply amazing! His eyes speak volumes. You feel as if you are gazing into his soul and... *ahem*... well, onto the story...
This is a delightful and refreshing comedy. Even though the plot of three best friends falling for the same girl in less than two days is slightly unbelievable (aren't they all?), it still works. It was pulled off as realistically as it could be. Monica Potter's quirky character wasn't too annoying, which was a welcome change. With these types of movies, I am often left wondering, "What was so great about her?", but I didn't feel that way about Martha. Her converse sneakers had to go, and she drank too much, but she was charming nonetheless. Joseph, on the other hand... absolutely no complaints with him or his character, Lawrence, except to say that I wish he would have had even more screen time. Rufus was hilarious. He had some of the best lines in the movie. This review probably hasn't been too helpful, so I'll end in this way... this is one of the best modern romantic comedies I've seen in a long time. It's extremely witty, the acting was great, there was actually chemistry between all of the characters, the storyline is fairly original, Joseph Fiennes is in it, etc. So, take some time out to see it!
This is a delightful and refreshing comedy. Even though the plot of three best friends falling for the same girl in less than two days is slightly unbelievable (aren't they all?), it still works. It was pulled off as realistically as it could be. Monica Potter's quirky character wasn't too annoying, which was a welcome change. With these types of movies, I am often left wondering, "What was so great about her?", but I didn't feel that way about Martha. Her converse sneakers had to go, and she drank too much, but she was charming nonetheless. Joseph, on the other hand... absolutely no complaints with him or his character, Lawrence, except to say that I wish he would have had even more screen time. Rufus was hilarious. He had some of the best lines in the movie. This review probably hasn't been too helpful, so I'll end in this way... this is one of the best modern romantic comedies I've seen in a long time. It's extremely witty, the acting was great, there was actually chemistry between all of the characters, the storyline is fairly original, Joseph Fiennes is in it, etc. So, take some time out to see it!
Mister Buddwing
(1966)
Entertaining
16 October 2001
I was channel flipping and happened upon "Mr. Buddwing". I came in during Garner's romance with Katherine Ross, thinking that it was one of those Romantic Dramadies. You can imagine my utter astonishment when, all of the sudden, he's yelling in the middle of the park, not knowing who he was. I was glued to my seat until the very end. From my perspective, this movie was very well thought out. The idea of different women he happens upon in his journey portraying 'Grace' at different stages was brilliant. Even though the premise was a bit unbelievable, (I, too, began to wonder why he wouldn't go to a police station or something), I still think that this movie was great entertainment. *Just as a side point, I think "Mr. Buddwing" would be great as a potential remake, don't you?
Wives and Daughters
(1999)
A Rare Gem
12 September 2001
After some deliberation, I have decided that this miniseries is one of my favorite movies of all time. Why? Because I can make no complaints whatsoever about this film. First, the screenplay, written by the wonderfully talented Andrew Davies of "Pride and Prejudice" (my favorite film of all time) and "Middlemarch" fame (the latter is on my list of must-sees). "Wives and Daughters" is based on the novel of the same name written by Elizabeth Gaskell. It tells the story of young Molly Gibson (Waddell), who lost her mother at a young age, but is raised by her loving father, the town doctor. When Mr. Gibson remarries, Molly's world is turned upside down. Now she has to contend with her daft and, at times, conniving stepmother, Hyacinth (Annis), and her worldly stepsister, Cynthia (Hawes). Despite their vast differences in temper, Molly and Cynthia become fast friends, but a secret from Cynthia's past stands to stain Molly's impeccable reputation. Meanwhile, Mr. Gibson's old friend, Squire Hamley, has two sons, studious Roger, and tortured Osbourne. Osbourne, the family favorite, has a few secrets of his own, but it is the younger Roger who not only proves himself the most responsible of the two, but also wins the heart of Molly and also a piece of Cynthia's as well. Will Molly finally have some happiness of her own? Well, after 3 1/2 hours, you'll find out.
Now, the actors. Superb! Justine Waddell (Tess of the D'Urbervilles, Great Expectations) is excellent and totally convincing as the strongwilled yet innocent Molly. Keeley Hawes (Cater Street Hangman, Our Mutual Friend) is wonderful as always. Bill Paterson (Mr. Gibson) is perfect as Molly's doting and protective father. And how can I forget Roger, played by Anthony Howell in his first television role? Wow, not only is he amazingly easy on the eyes, but he is a superb actor, who hails from various theatre troupes in England. The supporting actors and actresses are splendid, as well. As for the scenery and costumes, perfection. Nothing more to add on that account. One of the most memorable scenes to look out for is when Molly catches Roger's eye at a party given in his honor. I don't want to get into a lot of detail, but let me say that fortunately I recorded W&Ds, and I rewound that scene and also the last half hour at least 10 times. The ending is perfect! Definitely no disappointments. Please see "Wives and Daughters" if you already haven't. Even if you don't like period dramas, make an exception in this case!
Now, the actors. Superb! Justine Waddell (Tess of the D'Urbervilles, Great Expectations) is excellent and totally convincing as the strongwilled yet innocent Molly. Keeley Hawes (Cater Street Hangman, Our Mutual Friend) is wonderful as always. Bill Paterson (Mr. Gibson) is perfect as Molly's doting and protective father. And how can I forget Roger, played by Anthony Howell in his first television role? Wow, not only is he amazingly easy on the eyes, but he is a superb actor, who hails from various theatre troupes in England. The supporting actors and actresses are splendid, as well. As for the scenery and costumes, perfection. Nothing more to add on that account. One of the most memorable scenes to look out for is when Molly catches Roger's eye at a party given in his honor. I don't want to get into a lot of detail, but let me say that fortunately I recorded W&Ds, and I rewound that scene and also the last half hour at least 10 times. The ending is perfect! Definitely no disappointments. Please see "Wives and Daughters" if you already haven't. Even if you don't like period dramas, make an exception in this case!
Out of Sight
(1998)
Great Story and Chemistry
12 September 2001
Out of Sight" tells the story of the love between a bank robber (Jack, played by Clooney) and an FBI agent (Karen, played by Lopez). Jack breaks out of prison thanks to a few buddies, but Karen happens to be in the prison parking lot during the attempt. She tries to apprehend the escapees, but she ends up in her own trunk with Jack since they decide, at the last minute, to use her car as their ticket to freedom. The sparks fly, and once they part ways, the two try to figure out if a romance could actually be possible between them. The chemistry between Karen and Jack was completely believable thanks to great acting by Lopez and Clooney. Normally, George's acting doesn't impress me. Even when he donned the Batman suit in "Batman and Friends" or whatever it was called, I still thought, 'Oh, there's Doug Ross (Clooney's ER character) as Batman'. But, he was actually great in this role, looking very dapper, might I add, in a few scenes. Lopez was equally successful in her role. The supporting actors are top notch. I watched this movie with my mom, and many parts had her laughing, so I think she enjoyed this movie too. Director Steven Soderbergh has a unique vision. This is the first film of his that I've seen, but this one makes me want to see more. As an example, at the times when it seemed most appropriate, he froze the frame for a few fleeting moments so that you could savor the complexity of the moment. That was very effective. The story is also told in an original flashback manner, which makes for a fresh film experience. Watch for the scene when Karen and Jack are talking in the coctail lounge and the snow is falling in the background. Great filmmaking!
Picnic
(1955)
Excellent Romance
12 September 2001
Holden stars as Hal Carter, a drifter looking for some purpose in his life. He comes into a small town in Kansas via a boxcar, looking for his old college buddy, Alan, hoping his friend can provide him with a good job with the family business. Hal never figured that he would stir up the entire town in only one day. He meets, and is immediately smitten, with Madge Owens (Novak), who is not only the town beauty queen, but just so happens to be the trophy girlfriend of Alan. Hal manages to charm everyone at first, but at the title event, things take a turn, and soon everyone is against Hal, except for Madge. Holden was 36 at the time of filming, and he does an excellent job as an aging man still trying to hang on to his schoolboy charm, in part by telling tall tales. Novak is stunning as Madge. Throughout the entire movie, she complains that she is tired of being looked upon as just pretty, feeling that she has to compete with her younger sister, Millie (Susan Strasberg), an intelligent tomboy, even for her mother's love. That said, Kim Novak is so uniquely beautiful, that you can't help being blinded by her beauty. At one point, at the picnic, she and Alan are sitting together next to a tree, and all that he can manage to get out is "You are so beautiful". You can see that, as nice as these words are, they have become meaningless to her. She manages to convey this thought with one look. That simple scene solidifies Novak's strong performance. Rosalind Russell is wonderful as the over-the-hill school marm who becomes nasty when she's drunk. Howard Bevans is equally impressive as her apprehensive boyfriend. "Picnic" is a true classic. Watch for the dance scene between Madge and Hal. It's spectacular!
Citizen Kane
(1941)
Good...but not the best
12 September 2001
According to the American Film Industry, "Citizen Kane" is the greatest movie of all time. After seeing this film, I found that a bit hard to believe. "Citizen Kane" has been patted on the back so many times, that its name alone has become a juggernaut. But is it deserving of so much praise? Let me first give you a quick rundown of the movie. Charles Foster Kane is dead. He was the richest man in American. Now that he's gone, everyone wants the scoop on his troubled life. One group of reporters decides to take a different angle. The last word Kane uttered before death was "Rosebud". No one knows what that means, and so these men set out to find the big secret behind this puzzling word. They proceed to interview all of the people who supposedly knew him best, yet they never uncover this secret. At the denouement, however, the audience is able to see what "Rosebud" is before it is destroyed.
I must admit that I already knew what "Rosebud" was before I saw the movie, and most people do. But, in the event that someone out there has no clue, I won't spoil it for you. There are some greats aspects to this film. Orsen Welles did a good job as both lead actor and director. Joseph Cotton (Shadow of a Doubt) was wonderful as Jedeiah Leland, Kane's oldest friend. There were quite a few scenes which I enjoyed. Perhaps I would have enjoyed it even better had I not already known what "Rosebud" was. In addition, its reputation as the greatest movie of all time made me expect much more of it, which might also explain my disappointment. I personally look for movies that draw me in completely, strike my emotions so that I either laugh or cry or, even better, laugh and cry. I like to identify with the characters, and I love great dialogue and symbolism. I would give "Citizen Kane" 3 out of 4 stars because I was aware of the presence of some of these elements to a certain point. This was definitely a good film. But the greatest film ever? I think not!
I must admit that I already knew what "Rosebud" was before I saw the movie, and most people do. But, in the event that someone out there has no clue, I won't spoil it for you. There are some greats aspects to this film. Orsen Welles did a good job as both lead actor and director. Joseph Cotton (Shadow of a Doubt) was wonderful as Jedeiah Leland, Kane's oldest friend. There were quite a few scenes which I enjoyed. Perhaps I would have enjoyed it even better had I not already known what "Rosebud" was. In addition, its reputation as the greatest movie of all time made me expect much more of it, which might also explain my disappointment. I personally look for movies that draw me in completely, strike my emotions so that I either laugh or cry or, even better, laugh and cry. I like to identify with the characters, and I love great dialogue and symbolism. I would give "Citizen Kane" 3 out of 4 stars because I was aware of the presence of some of these elements to a certain point. This was definitely a good film. But the greatest film ever? I think not!
The Wedding Planner
(2001)
Charming Romantic Comedy!
14 August 2001
I was pleasantly surprised with "The Wedding Planner", which I rented recently. I was reminded of the classic and oh, so fashionable romantic comedies which starred Ginger Rogers, Doris Day, Audrey Hepburn, etc. Matthew McConaughey and Jennifer Lopez had great chemistry. They did a wonderful job of portraying love at first sight and not knowing what to do about it. Sure, there were some predictable moments, but isn't that always the case in these types of movies? I may be a little biased, since the romantic comedy is my favorite movie genre. I just can't get enough of those wisecracks used to hide true feelings, those charming dance sequences, those lingering stares under the stars... *sigh*. Well, if you agree with me, then you'll love this simply charming movie.
Planet of the Apes
(2001)
Here's why I didn't like the ending...
1 August 2001
Warning: Spoilers
***SPOILERS! ***SPOILERS!*** ***SPOILERS!***
OK, here is what doesn't sit well with me about the *surprise* ending (which was more like a cliffhanger). The general consensus is that General Thade found the ship in the swamp and found a way to travel back in time to change the future and make apes rule the earth. That's fine. But, here's what I didn't like... Why was the new 'modern day' Ape Earth EXACTLY like our current modern day earth? Even if Thade could go back in time and cause some sort of uprising, that doesn't explain why the DC skyline looked exactly the same, down to the bridges, etc.. Why did their police cars look exactly like ours, their sirens sound the same, their clothing look the same, etc., etc.? Their civilization would have to have some major differences. It would have been much better if Leo would have landed in a more rural area, and then, perhaps, came across Mount Rushmore with Thade's face on it, or something. That would have been much more plausible, don't you think? But to have him land in a densely populated city left too much to be explained. An ape city that looks exactly like one of our cities just doesn't make sense.
Maybe Thade was able to get his hands on those transmissions from different time periods on Earth that they eluded to at the beginning of the movie, which is how he knew to have his memorial look exactly like Lincoln's memorial. Even if he could have done that, he still wouldn't have lived long enough to make sure 'modern day' Ape Earth would turn out to be exactly like the Earth that Leo was used to. Oh, well... if there is a sequel, I hope it will be better.
And, while I'm griping... maybe next time we can have some character development??? Is that too much to ask? I didn't feel even remotely attached to any of the characters. Leo's emotions were demonstrated by his constant squinting (since when was this considered acting? All of today's young actors do this), Daena stood on rocks profiling and brooding, Thade had tantrums, Kris Kristofferson scrunched his face (wait a minute... he does that in all of his films!), Ari slobbered over Leo, etc., etc. I don't call that character development. I guess that IS too much to ask these days (another culprit is "Pearl Harbor". Where was the character development there?). Well, Tim Burton and Rick Baker did the best they could with the script they were handed. I'll take the original movie over this remake.
OK, here is what doesn't sit well with me about the *surprise* ending (which was more like a cliffhanger). The general consensus is that General Thade found the ship in the swamp and found a way to travel back in time to change the future and make apes rule the earth. That's fine. But, here's what I didn't like... Why was the new 'modern day' Ape Earth EXACTLY like our current modern day earth? Even if Thade could go back in time and cause some sort of uprising, that doesn't explain why the DC skyline looked exactly the same, down to the bridges, etc.. Why did their police cars look exactly like ours, their sirens sound the same, their clothing look the same, etc., etc.? Their civilization would have to have some major differences. It would have been much better if Leo would have landed in a more rural area, and then, perhaps, came across Mount Rushmore with Thade's face on it, or something. That would have been much more plausible, don't you think? But to have him land in a densely populated city left too much to be explained. An ape city that looks exactly like one of our cities just doesn't make sense.
Maybe Thade was able to get his hands on those transmissions from different time periods on Earth that they eluded to at the beginning of the movie, which is how he knew to have his memorial look exactly like Lincoln's memorial. Even if he could have done that, he still wouldn't have lived long enough to make sure 'modern day' Ape Earth would turn out to be exactly like the Earth that Leo was used to. Oh, well... if there is a sequel, I hope it will be better.
And, while I'm griping... maybe next time we can have some character development??? Is that too much to ask? I didn't feel even remotely attached to any of the characters. Leo's emotions were demonstrated by his constant squinting (since when was this considered acting? All of today's young actors do this), Daena stood on rocks profiling and brooding, Thade had tantrums, Kris Kristofferson scrunched his face (wait a minute... he does that in all of his films!), Ari slobbered over Leo, etc., etc. I don't call that character development. I guess that IS too much to ask these days (another culprit is "Pearl Harbor". Where was the character development there?). Well, Tim Burton and Rick Baker did the best they could with the script they were handed. I'll take the original movie over this remake.
Beauty and the Beast
(1991)
One of the Best!
24 February 2001
Warning: Spoilers
May contain spoilers...
If you can get past the fact that there were obviously at least 3 different lead animators for the character of Belle (because her face style changes every few minutes), then you will see that this is one of the best animated films of all time. That was a MAJOR mistake on Disney's part (what were they thinking?), but the plot, the songs, and the animation (not including the aforementioned) were top notch and make up for that fact. I vividly remember the first time I saw Beauty and the Beast. As soon as it started, I knew that this was going to be something great. When you first hear Belle sing... "Little town, it's a quiet village, everyday like the one before...". What a great opening! And, when Belle and the Beast danced in the ballroom, that was just spectacular. Every scene was a masterpiece.
If you can get past the fact that there were obviously at least 3 different lead animators for the character of Belle (because her face style changes every few minutes), then you will see that this is one of the best animated films of all time. That was a MAJOR mistake on Disney's part (what were they thinking?), but the plot, the songs, and the animation (not including the aforementioned) were top notch and make up for that fact. I vividly remember the first time I saw Beauty and the Beast. As soon as it started, I knew that this was going to be something great. When you first hear Belle sing... "Little town, it's a quiet village, everyday like the one before...". What a great opening! And, when Belle and the Beast danced in the ballroom, that was just spectacular. Every scene was a masterpiece.
Extremely Captivating Film
15 February 2001
I just saw this film today. I was totally captivated... when it was all over, and the credits began to run, it took me a couple of seconds to realize where I was. I didn't want to get out of my seat. And once I got out of the theatre, I couldn't even talk about it for an hour or so. I kept running the details over and over in my head. It's rare that a film has such an impact on me. The cinematography was stunning. The special effects were beautifully done. The characters' moves were effortless. The acting was wonderful. I really think that Michelle Yeoh should have been nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress. I thought that the effects and storyline complimented each other brilliantly. There were so many different layers to the plot. There were many things that couldn't be explained with dialogue that were expressed in the characters' faces. This film had lighthearted moments, heartwrenching moments, romantic interludes, inspirational sentiments, wonderful plot twists, superb acting, beautifully done fight scenes, never before seen special effects...it had it all. Some scenes may have been a little over the top, but it's *fantasy*... and yet, after a few brief moments, it somehow became completely believable. That's how much this film draws you in. This is a one of a kind film; there is just no comparing it to any other. It transports you to another place and time. I highly recommend it.
The Thing
(1982)
Scariest Movie I've Seen
4 February 2001
Warning: Spoilers
Possible SPOILER>>>>>>>>>>>...
All I know is, when the guy's head grows legs and starts walking like a spider, I scream at the top of my lungs EVERY time! (It takes the term creepy to another level.) This is truly the scariest movie I've ever seen. There are probably much more horrifying movies, but this is as far as I'll go. But, every time this movie comes on, I always watch it. I highly recommend it.
All I know is, when the guy's head grows legs and starts walking like a spider, I scream at the top of my lungs EVERY time! (It takes the term creepy to another level.) This is truly the scariest movie I've ever seen. There are probably much more horrifying movies, but this is as far as I'll go. But, every time this movie comes on, I always watch it. I highly recommend it.
Tell Your Friends