tad58 Reviews

The Great Sinner (1949)

Awful

[5/10 · 30 March 2019]

Considering the cast, a real chore to get through. Overdramatic performances especially by the great Gregory Peck left me anticipating the end. Disappointing.

Hills of Home (1948)

Charming, touching slice of life

[8/10 · 20 March 2005]

They don't make'em like this any more, they can't. A picture postcard of a time long lost is captured in this beautiful film. The characters are not perfect, they have flaws like real people. Edmund Gwenn turns in a performance as Dr.McClure that lets the viewer in and identify with him as he relates to difficult people and takes anger in stride from the distraught and scared citizens of his village. Lassie is presented as frightened and imperfect also, something new to me since I had seen only the television features showing this dog as brave, smart, and resourceful. The relationship that develops between the doctor and his dog is fulfilling on every level and the responsibility he feels towards those who depend on him is inspirational. Catch this if you can, you'll find it worthy of your attention.

Speed (1994)

Inane, Unreal, Incredible

[3/10 · 20 August 2004]

I can't believe that this film is so highly rated. Stretches the definition of "looking the other way" to a new elasticity with the 20 to 30 mph "50" mph bus speeds, and the most ludicrous jump of a vehicle I've ever seen in a "dramatic" film. Reeves cannot act, Bullock is game, but cannot pull this travesty back from the brink. Dennis Hopper is fun to watch as usual, but again, I just can't get past the physical impossibilities presented as fact. And the last sequences with the beheading/subway crash, etc....just plain silly.

Avert your gaze, spend your time more constructively, walk the dog, vacuum the car, anything, but don't waste your time on pap like this.

1 and 1/2* out of 4.