AriesJB4 Reviews

Broken Flowers (2005)

She loves me, she loves me not

[10/10 · 24 August 2005]

Bill Murray and Jim Jarmusch have merged their talents for a second time within the last couple of years and have come up with a beautiful gem of a movie. Life does bring strange surprises, some good, some not so good. What is good about "Broken Flowers" is the reality. Bill Murray's character, Don Johnston, has all the material world has to offer, but as a person he is totally void of emotional attachments. Why? Why has he loved and lost? The interaction between Murray and Sharon Stone, Frances Conroy, Jessica Lange, Tilda Swinton and Julie Delpy was brief but strong. The road not taken, what if, if only...will come back to haunt Don for years to come, if not the rest of his life. Jeffrey Wright is a perfect comedic foil for Bill Murray. His 'get off the couch' approach and attack life is the alarm clock going off for Murray's character for the first time in years.

The acting may be minimalistic in words but powerful in expressions, especially by Bill Murray. The autumnal setting and the soundtrack (namely the song used for the opening and closing credits - although an oxymoron in title only) opens Don Johnston's eyes. "Broken Flowers" in the final analysis comes out smelling like a bouquet of roses (fresh ones at that). Fade to black, one chapter ends, another begins. That's life.

Mystic River (2003)

It just keeps rolling along

[13 November 2003]

'Mystic River' is a very good picture that does maintain suspense throughout its 2 hour and 17 minute run time. The ensemble of Penn, Robbins, Bacon, Fishburne, Linney and Harden as well as the rest of the supporting players were fine as well. I feel that the actor who should should be recognized for his performance is Tim Robbins. Don't get me wrong - Sean Penn is good (a combo of DeNiro and Mitchum physically) but I could see other actors playing the Jimmy Markum part - Kevin Spacey for one comes to mind. Penn may be deserving of a nomination but the competition out there may be strong enough to split or take away votes. Clint Eastwood's direction was excellent, but my gripe is with the running time. The film could have been at least 20 minutes shorter and accomplished the same thing. I rarely look at my watch to see how much longer, but believe me I was tempted. This is one of the better movies I've seen this year, but to place it into an instant classic status in my opinion is a little premature.

The Razor's Edge (1984)

You just don't get it and that's too bad

[9/10 · 31 October 2003]

I have seen 'The Razor's Edge' several times within the last couple of years. It offers quality performances by Bill Murray, Theresa Russell, Catherine Hicks, James Keach and the supporting cast. This movie has been sadly overlooked and panned by the critics and viewers since its 1984 release. It is unfortunate because there is a story and the actors bring this to life. I wish viewers would give Bill Murray a break and realize he can do more than perform as Carl in 'Caddyshack' or any of the other comedic roles in his impressive film vault. The relationships he forms with Theresa Russell and the others are sincere and meaningful. Sometimes you do have to go half way (or more than half way) around the world to come full circle. The cinematography and musical score by Jack Nitzsche contributed to this journey. Perhaps this lovely film will finally get the recognition that it deserves but for those who refuse to even give it a chance you just don't get it and that's too bad.

Lost in Translation (2003)

Some Enchanted Evening = LIT from within

[10/10 · 4 October 2003]

Due to the avalanche of growing and glowing critics' reviews on this much anticipated movie, I eagerly awaited the opening of this film at a theater near me. I was not disappointed. The cinematography was outstanding, and the performances of the two leads were pure joy. Bill Murray has finally been given a role that should bring him the Oscar recognition he so richly deserves. Scarlett Johannson is a perfect match for Mr. Murray. She's the novice (with the whole world and her future in front of her) and he's the voice of experience. This movie will linger in my memory for a long time - simply but beautifully told - although dialogue is important, words not spoken and eyes that meet are just as powerful if not more so. The soundtrack takes on a character of its own in its contribution to 'Lost in Translation'. More than this, there is something. Good luck to all at Oscar time.

Rushmore (1998)

I wish that I knew what I knew then

[18 September 2003]

Motivation, ah that's the key. I will admit that I did not see 'Rushmore' upon it initial release in 1998. I did not follow Bill Murray's career that closely. However, when December 1998 came and the critics' awards were announced - one name surfaced over and over again from the various groups.. Mr. Murray's. Curiosity got the best of me and I saw 'Rushmore' on cable over and over again. (HUGE mistake, Academy on your part, HUGE). What a performance! Jason Schwartzman, Olivia Williams, Luke Wilson and Brian Cox just to name a few are perfectly cast as well.

The witty dialogue, even the tiniest gesture - a can you top this attitude and the musical score make this film a must see - one viewing is not enough - you cannot absorb and observe the subtle not overt elements (look for the little things, even the wardrobe of the leads)with just one look. Did I love this movie ..oo la la ..

Daisies in December (1995 TV Movie)

A lovely little seen film with great acting chemistry

[10/10 · 2 September 2003]

"Daisies in December" is an excellent TV movie, which first aired in the United States on the Showtime channel in December 1995. I do wish it was available on video. It did receive the ACE Cable award for Best Screenplay and it is well deserving of it. Joss Ackland and Jean Simmons had previously acted on the London stage in another project and there is a chemistry between them. It was a pleasure seeing Mr. Ackland in a different type of character than the type he usually portrays. "Daisies" is a lovely film - one of my all-time favorites - and note that the supporting cast is a joy to watch as well. Highly recommended - you won't be sorry.