fesenms Reviews

Sherrybaby (2006)

Sherrybaby is one of the best films of the year

[10/10 · 31 January 2007]

I cannot recall any performance by an actress that ranks with this one for showing the truth about sex in the lives of women like her. As my wife said while watching Maggie Gyllenhall perform sex for many of the men she meets, "That's the way it is......" Her combination of intelligence, sensitivity, and determination to get her daughter back make her a true screen heroine. Anyone who is sensitive could see that the film was directed by a woman who understands the many tools used by society to keep "lost women" in their place. This film, like "Last Tango in Paris" decades before, presents the reality of humans and sex in an honest way unmatched by almost every film. Rather than preaching about the endless sexual exploitation of women in our contemporary society, it shows it for what it is. I hope that social workers and anyone who has to work with people who have been in prison will see this film and discuss it.

Correct Change (2002)

If you liked Hustle & Flow, you'll love this film

[10/10 · 31 January 2007]

Mike Lilly, who attended CalArts for a while,studying under Hollywood greats, wrote, produced, and directed this contemporary story based on a real person. A man who gets out of prison for murdering his wife finds himself on the means streets of Appalachia. In the style of a Robert Mitchum film, he saves a street prostitute from a beating, becoming her accidental pimp. Thanks to a librarian john she has befriended, she discovers the truth about her new "boyfriend," leading to tragic results. The actors who play the killer and the street prostitute give world class performances, worthy of a Nick Nolte or a Maggie Gyllenhall in "Sherrybaby." The other actors, all non-professionals, also give excellent performances, showing real people as they live. Filmed using contemporary film-making techniques, it won many awards around the state where it was shot, West Virginia, and screened around the country including at The Pioneer Theater in NYC. Music by the Pistolwhippers, John Lilly and Robert Taylor, three of WV's finest musicians.

The Turning (1992)

Interesting film about a Neo-Nazis young man facing reality

[7/10 · 22 November 2006]

The West Virginia International Film Festival screened this film in fall 1997 with the director present. The film was made on the border between West Virginia and Virginia. Mr. Puopolo gave a great introduction and answered many questions. The basic idea of the film - a young man returning home after living with Neo-Nazis - is unique in my film experience. Too bad Ms. Anderson wasn't in more of the film - but given its unique storyline, and fairly good visuals, etc. it is an interesting film. One should never judge a film by its poster - or video cover.

It is certainly a B film - like other classics such as "Cockfighter" and "Two-Lane Blacktop." This film should be judged for what it is - a low budget independent film that captures some of the reality of life in America's working class world.