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Lovelace (2013)
Compelling, moving, and beautifully done
I was in college when Deep Throat was released and Linda Lovelace (Boreman)had her flash of fame. I vaguely recalled that she later her life, but I was unfamiliar with the details. I had misgivings about seeing "Lovelace." I assumed, incorrectly, that it would be sensationalistic and tawdry. I am glad that I overcame my reluctance (and then read Linda's book Ordeal). The film is compelling, moving, and beautifully acted and directed. It deserves to be nominated for best picture.
Amanda Seyfried gives a sensitive and superb performance as Lovelace -- she should be nominated for best actress. Peter Sarsgaard is more than solid as as Linda's husband, Chuck Traynor. Sharon Stone and Robert Patrick provide heartfelt and touching performances as Linda's parents. The supporting cast is first rate throughout, as is the musical score.
Younger audiences who have grown up with the internet may find it difficult to relate to how a porn film and star could have received so much attention in the early 1970s. Perhaps this explains in part the film's mediocre ratings in this outlet. But this film is superb. It should not be missed by those who remember the uproar. It has much to offer for viewers who don't remember but appreciate fine movies.
A Single Shot (2013)
A serious and dark movie
This is a serious movie for serious viewers. Sam Rockwell gives a convincing performance as John Moon, a West Virginia cracker who stumbles into bad luck from the opening seen. All of the characters bring to life what it's probably like to live in a rural, poor area in flyover country. The accents of the characters are often thick, which can make it difficult to understand some of the dialog, but the plot nonetheless comes through clearly. Rockwell's character progresses from being a dumb cracker to someone you care about, as the tension builds towards a final resolution of his accidental and potentially deadly predicament. The acting and direction are first rate. The cinematography fits the story; the musical score does likewise. The story is dark, in a Jack London sort of way. You won't be inspired, but you might be brought closer in touch with the human condition.
Ain't Them Bodies Saints (2013)
Missed potential
I watched this film because of Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara. The cast and acting are very good. Unfortunately, the film fails to achieve its potential. There are at least four problems that do not involve spoilers. First, the film fails to provide enough background and character development before Bob goes to prison. It needed another 20 minutes on the front end, including some hint as to why Bob had enemies. Second, while the cinematography has good moments, most of the film is dark or in shadows. The realism is not worth the eye strain. Third, Bob's southern accent at time borders on mumbling, requiring high volume, which in turn makes the excellent musical score too loud. Fourth, the pace is very slow except for the first and last 10 minutes. Given marginal connection with the characters in view of problem number one, this makes it all the more difficult to remain engaged. Overall, a missed opportunity for making a memorable movie.
Lake Mungo (2008)
Mildly intriguing at best -- very slow throughout
Very dull documentary style. You keep waiting for something to happen, and it really never does. Imhad lost interest by revelation at the end and didn't stick around for the credits. The video footage is difficult to watch, dark, grainy, etc. The acting is pedestrian. The movie so lacks in substance that it is major challenge to write 10 lines. There are some nice shots of Australia, which make New Zealand seem like a much better choice for a trip down under. The digressions with friends and town characters do nothing to help understanding or create any tension or excitement. In short, I did not expect to be scared, but it was more tedious than envisioned. I found it a real chore to stick to the end. Presumably it was made for,peanuts.
The Killer Inside Me (2010)
Dark and well done period piece
Casey Affleck does a superb job as a mild mannered deputy sheriff who like to beat the women he cares for. The violence is shocking at first sight. We are given only brief glimpses into the causes. The overall cast is solid. The film raises the question of what could cause human nature to become so twisted and remorseless. I found the first viewing to be deeply disturbing. I appreciated the acting more the second time. Affleck is polite and softspoken throughout, which adds to the psychotic nature of his actions. He shows good potential for work to come, making the viewer want to see him in more films. All in all, an edgy, gripping drama.