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Reviews
Leaving Las Vegas (1995)
Horror and beauty, often in the same scene
"Leaving Las Vegas" could be called a study in dichotomy. Both in theme and execution we see horror and beauty, often in the same scene. While seeking companionship with terminally alcoholic Ben (a horrible waste of a man) we observe a haloed Sera (whose profession causes degrading situations) tenderly caring for him. We see a motel proprietress with an almost friendly smile as she evicts Ben and Sera after a drunken mishap. A kindly cab driver (nicely played by Lou Rawles) comforts a broken spirited Sera. And so on.
The director's use of light, color and composition are amongst the best I've seen, ever. This is a film that can be appreciated for it's visuals alone, but that would be a terrible waste because the sound track (performed by Sting) is superb.
Yes the "whore with a heart of gold" is a hackneyed characterization and Ben in the opening scenes seems a little too gleeful in constructing his demise but these are minor quibbles. "Leaving Las Vegas" is a masterpiece.
The Luzhin Defence (2000)
I hated this movie
The good news is that the movie is beautifully filmed, the settings and period clothing are luscious, Emily Watson gave us a solid performance, as did Geraldine James as her screen mother. Sadly, that's about it. John Turturro gave us yet another wild eyed outing. It's beginning to look like that's all he can do. The villainous mentor is clichéd and we never learned the reason for his rancor. Indeed, the premise of the love story, that is the genius fool snagging the lovely poised heiress, is trite and implausible. The wedding day sequence also made no sense. Play chess on your way to the church? How could that ploy even be advanced? Although some reviewers found the ending to be a release, I thought it was another hackneyed device.
If you want to see a film about chess, I suggest "Searching for Bobby Fischer", for a love story about people in disparate circumstances try "Chasing Amy". If "The Luzhin Defence" is neither, then what is it?
Donnie Brasco (1997)
One of Pacino's best performances
Al Pacino's extraordinary talent is beautifully displayed in this movie. A low key, introspective performance with not a single raised voice. His Lefty is exploited and passed over but continues to "soldier" on, observing protocol. The scene on the boat with Mr. Tafficante defines his sad role in the organization. Very effective, and a tribute to the players and director.
Some years back I read the book this movie was based on. Although the story was faithfully told, the depth of Pistone's betrayal of his friends (and wife and kids) and his egotism were not adequately portrayed. The affection in which he was held by Sonny (who in reality was killed for his involvement with Donnie/ Joe) was also not illustrated.
Small gripes. Every actor contributed a fine effort with honorable mention to Anne Hesche as Donnie/Joe's long-suffering wife.
All the Little Animals (1998)
Ridiculous Mess...
The only reason to watch this ridiculous mess of a film is the beautiful Cornish coast. Filled with sanctimonious cliches, and contradictions, the story marches on it's predictable way to it's predictable conclusion. The three central characters are tiresome, the story contains no nuance or subtlety, nothing but the relentless pounding of whatever message the writer wanted to deliver. If you need to see footage of Cornwall in a dramatic setting, your time will be better served by viewing "The Sailor Who Fell From Grace With the Sea".
Little Odessa (1994)
Brooklyn
My son, who has moved to California, mentioned that seeing this movie made him nostalgic for NY. The cast was excellent, the story believable, the characterizations accurate, but it was the atmosphere that sets this film off. I can't think of another movie that captures it's setting so well.
The Death Collector (1976)
A very accurate depiction of small time mob life...
A very accurate depiction of small time mob life filmed in New Jersey. The story, characters and script are believable but the acting drops the ball. Still, it's worth watching, especially for the strong images, some still with me even though I first viewed this 25 years ago.
A young hood steps up and starts doing bigger things (tries to) but these things keep going wrong, leading the local boss to suspect that his end is being skimmed off, not a good place to be if you enjoy your health, or life.
This is the film that introduced Joe Pesce to Martin Scorsese. Also present is that perennial screen wise guy, Frank Vincent. Strong on characterizations and visuals. Sound muddled and much of the acting is amateurish, but a great story.