TSMChicago Reviews

Going Clear: Scientology & the Prison of Belief (2015)

Devastating

[10/10 · 6 April 2015]

An amazing and thorough documentary that puts a human face on both the leaders and victims of the Scientology movement. After a detailed biography of founder L. Ron Hubbard, we meet several former members and learn of their experiences inside the church as well as their efforts to leave.

This is a compelling and disturbing portrait of an organization that is desperate to retain their privileged tax-exempt status while building an obscenely large reserve of cash and real estate. The frank and sometimes self-effacing comments of former members shed an unflattering light on the efforts of the Scientology church to reign in members who question the motives of leader David Miscavige. Fear, blackmail, lawsuits, physical abuse and harassment of family members are all weapons in their efforts to keep the membership in line. The most damning evidence comes from Scientology's own memos, writings and training manuals.

The videos of Scientology members Tom Cruise and John Travolta shilling for the organization are nothing short of startling. Cruise comes off especially condescending and arrogant.

My only complaint about this film is that no one from Scientology responded to requests to appear and defend their organization. While not surprising, it would have been interesting to hear something other than the terse denials issued through their lawyers.

Also, a personal note to the filmmakers: The titles and written descriptions in this film are far too small for an average sized television. I found myself having to sit right next to the screen to read them.

The Exterminator (1980)

No funny business here.

[9/10 · 29 March 2013]

A cold, cruel and cynical tale of revenge and vigilantism from writer/director James Glickenhaus. John Eastland (Robert Ginty) becomes judge and executioner after his army friend is gravely wounded by thugs. The uncut DVD version from Anchor Bay also stars Christopher George, Dennis Boutsikaris and Samantha Eggar. Yes, that's sax man Stan Getz making an appearance at a concert in Battery Park.

I saw The Exterminator in the theater when it was first released in 1980 and, at age 22, it was the only movie that ever made me feel physically ill. Ginty's encounter with the chicken pimp and the state senator is as grim as any execution scene put on film even though it is not the most graphic. Director Glickenhaus skillfully creates a raw and realistic rage with documentary-style camera work and lighting as Ginty methodically and brutally dispenses his brand of justice.

The graphic pre-credit Vietnam sequence was filmed at Indian Dunes Park; the same location as the tragic scene from Twilight Zone where Vic Morrow and two children were killed.

Sarafina! (1992)

Freedom is Coming

[10/10 · 2 March 2013]

Darrell James Roodt directed this superb film based on the 1988 Tony Award nominee for Best Musical and Best Actress in a Musical. A gripping drama depicting the apartheid struggle and subsequent student riots in Soweto, South Africa that is laced with fantastic songs and production numbers. The cast features Whoopi Goldberg, South African singing legend Miriam Makeba (Pata Pata) and the amazing Leleti Khumalo in the title role. Also watch for Robert Whitehead's chilling performance as a prison interrogator. Includes songs by the film's co-writer Mbongeni Ngema who also plays Constable Sabela in the film. Additional selections were written by Hugh Masekela (Grazing in the Grass). The energetic choreography is by Michael Peters (Thriller).

From Hell to Texas (1958)

Hard to find western gem.

[8/10 · 16 October 2011]

If you have an all-region DVD player, which costs less than $100, you may order a very fine anamorphic widescreen copy of this film from Amazon Italy.

Don Murray, on the run after an accidental killing, eludes R.G. Armstrong and a very young Dennis Hopper in this stark western from Henry Hathaway. Along the way he meets a rancher and falls in love with the man's daughter. A fiery confrontation with the dead man's family finally brings closure to this violent chase story. Well developed characters not usually found in this genre.

Hard to find and well worth the effort.

The Sentinel (1977)

It has the goods.

[9/10 · 25 June 2011]

To many critics the tag "A Michael Winner Film" was always greeted with scorn. To me, as a teenager during the '70s, it meant simply a great movie. The guy had style and he was never shy during an era when major studios took chances with edgy stories.

Winner was a winner (Death Wish, The Mechanic, The Nightcomers) and this film was daring and brilliant. An all-star cast brings to life the story of a young woman with baggage who lives in a building that happens to be the gateway to hell. Rosemary and her baby never had it this good. Full of great shocks including an ending worthy of Tod Browning's Freaks.

Grown Ups (I) (2010)

Laughed out loud the entire time

[10/10 · 21 January 2011]

After a hectic week in frigid Chicago, our entire family watched this movie together on Friday night. To put it simply, we laughed our asses off. Kevin, Adam, Rob, Chris and David are at the top of their game and Grown Ups is a riot. An added bonus is Steve Bucemi's appearance in the second half. He hasn't been this funny since The Big Lebowski.

Slapstick humor, dumb one-liners and groaners, a lot of old age gags, a few fart jokes and even a couple of sweet moments made this film worth our time. The supporting cast includes Salma Hayek, Maria Bello and Maya Rudolph. Even the indie crowd likes a good kick to the groin now and then.

Director Dennis Dugan paces this comedy well and manages to keep any one of his comedy stars from stealing the show. Look for his cameo during the flashback scenes of the kids' basketball game.

Sometimes we want art and sometimes we really need to enjoy ourselves. Come on and lighten up, Grown Ups is funny!

West of Zanzibar (1928)

Hard to find, worth the effort.

[9/10 · 10 September 2010]

The opening sequences of Lon Chaney as the magician foreshadow the dark atmospheres that director Tod Browning would later create for Freaks and Mark of the Vampire. Excellent photography and an astonishing physical performance that was the hallmark of Chaney's work.

I remember this film being shown on Chicago's PBS outlet WTTW-TV during the 1970s. It was tinted in certain scenes and featured a new score that was fresh, yet not too modern. A master from this television showing has to exist somewhere.

Why this fantastic film is not more readily available is a mystery. It deserves to be seen on DVD or Turner Classic Movies.

Appaloosa (2008)

Fantastic and understated

[10/10 · 4 July 2010]

Much like the Robert B. Parker novel on which this film is based, director Ed Harris has fashioned a minimalist masterpiece.

Great photography and tremendous attention to detail contribute to a brisk story of violence and revenge in Arizona. It was refreshing to see the gunfights staged in a realistic manner. No endless shots of the shooters hands and eyes prior to pulling the trigger, and no firearms that sound like small artillery cannons.

Ed Harris and Viggo Mortensen speak volumes with their silence in many of the scenes. The viewer is well aware that these two have a history of trust. Jeremy Irons is pure evil as the typical villain wanting to own the town. It was also a pleasure to see James Gammon in a supporting role as Earl May, one of the town fathers.

Renee Zellweger is appropriately annoying as Allie French, much like the character in the book. She is the only person who can distract Virgil Cole. There was no need to detail her bad cooking and poor piano playing from the novel. The unspoken visuals between the two actors conveyed their story easily.

Appaloosa is a fine western and terrific alternative to the usual shoot 'em up stories we often see. There are three more Virgil Cole novels from the late Robert B. Parker, and here's to seeing another film from this talented crew.

Extraordinary Measures (2010)

What did you expect?

[3 July 2010]

The division of opinions for this film seem to reflect the conflict between the characters of Dr. Webber and Mr. Crowley. Sometimes there is a need for strict reality, but often a feel good story with a positive outcome is what the viewer wants.

In this case matters of the heart took precedence. As the parent of two special needs kids, this story helped validate the struggles many parents have faced in not knowing if their children would survive a major health crisis.

To the realists and their negative reviews I would say this: the movie was based on a book titled "The Cure." What did you think you were going to get? Bravo to the actors and writers of Extraordinary Measures.

American Pop (1981)

A great impression of the music

[10/10 · 27 June 2010]

I saw American Pop in a suburban Chicago theater when it was first released.

I was impressed with the film and have always enjoyed it as a musical rather than a drama. At the time the surround sound was striking as was the alternate form of animation(rotoscope)and use of color. Being able to see American Pop in 35mm on a large screen was an experience, as I believe many of the film's critics have only seen inferior video versions.

With musical selections dating from the 1920s through 1980 this film is a fantastic visualization of the spirit and essence of American music. The dance sequences from the Big Band era are especially effective.

I have shown it in my high school music appreciation class a few times with very negative reactions from the students. I dig American Pop, however, and I know others of my generation will enjoy it.

Ralph Bakshi, a true artist.

Monte Walsh (1970)

Another lost gem from the 1970s

[10/10 · 28 August 2009]

Beautiful to look at and serene in its pacing, this gem from 1970 deserves a chance to find an audience today.

Those who have seen the very fine remake with Tom Selleck may be surprised to find that the two scripts are word for word identical about 80% of the time. Lee Marvin is more melancholy in his approach to Monte Walsh, and as a result this version plays a bit more on the wistful side. It is quite moving at times.

Both films enjoy a sly sense of humor although this version is more subtle.

John Barry's score supplies just a hint of the style he would later utilize for his epic Dances With Wolves. Mama Cass sings her heart out on The Good Times are Coming Soon.

Jack Palance plays wonderfully against type as the somewhat bashful Chet.

Monte Walsh needs to be re-released as a proper DVD so we don't have to rely on inferior bootleg copies from eBay.

American Hot Wax (1978)

You're Never Gonna Stop Rock and Roll!

[10/10 · 26 May 2009]

What a great character study where the music itself plays an essential role.

We are treated to several scenes where the creative process of producing a rock and roll classic is depicted. Sure, they take a few liberties with history, but the essence of the music and the era is so true to life.

Casting a recording studio veteran (Richard Perry) as the producer who finally coaxes "Come and Go With Me" out of an inexperienced group of singers was film-making genius.

Lorraine Newman as Teenage Louise was an obvious recognition of the accomplishments of Carole King.

Including performances by Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Screamin' Jay Hawkins added an air of authenticity to the climatic concert in Brooklyn.

Tim McIntire's performance as Alan Freed captured the pioneer disc jockey's habit of tapping the beat of the songs with a pencil in the broadcast booth.

The singers portraying The Chesterfields make another appearance in Floyd Mutrux's 1980 comedy riot "The Hollywood Knights" along with Fran Drescher and Moosie Drier. And lets not forget a very young Jay Leno as Mookie, Alan Freed's driver.

A wonderful film that deserves a legitimate DVD release with all the extras. Let's solve those music royalty issues and get this movie out to the public.

Freebie and the Bean (1974)

Freebie is Freed - Warner Archive, available now!

[9/10 · 1 May 2009]

I have been laughing myself silly at this movie since I first saw it on Christmas Day, 1974.

Funny, violent, loud and much like a traffic accident in that you can't look away. Freebie and the Bean is like a truly tasteless joke; you know it is probably wrong and still you laugh so hard.

Two lovably inept cops manage to keep from being suspended while they attempt to protect a local mobster from out of town hit men. Richard Rush's comedy chase film contains the wildest car crashes this side of The Blues Brothers.

With a healthy dose of sexist, racist and scatological humor, you just need to chill out and enjoy the jokes and one liners. James Caan and Alan Arkin assume the usual buddy cop roles and run wild. Relax, it's just a movie made at a time when we weren't so paranoid about poking fun at our differences.

Best scenes? The car chase that ends up on the third floor, the bowling alley shootout in the men's room and the mano a mano (sort of) confrontation in the ladies' room at the Super Bowl.

The banter between Freebie and Bean is priceless, including a terrific exchange where we don't know if they're discussing a wife's infidelity or the dog stools in the yard. Great script by Robert Kaufman (Love at First Bite) and story by the incredible Floyd Mutrux (American Hot Wax, The Hollywood Knights).

Warner Home Video, a company that does listen to movie fans, promised us this DVD release for years, and now they have delivered. If you haven't seen this comedy classic in widescreen, you will be impressed!

Girl 27 (2007)

The truth is not always pleasant

[10/10 · 15 August 2008]

Girl 27 has been criticized for the alleged self-indulgence of director David Stenn. I disagree.

Stern's obsessive effort to unearth the truth about Patrica Douglas was riveting, and it could not have been depicted in any other fashion. A dry, factual investigation would never have revealed the intimacies that made this story so compelling to watch.

At times I felt uncomfortable with Stenn's invasive style, but this was a terrible story that needed to be told. To gloss it over would only be an injustice to Ms. Douglas.

I truly felt Stenn's anxiety at the casino hotel where he awaited his first meeting with Patricia. Some may accuse the director of exploitation, but to me Stenn displayed true compassion for Ms. Douglas and her tragic experience at MGM.

An amazing film.

Teachers (1984)

Pretty realistic by today's standards

[9/10 · 7 June 2006]

While the story takes some liberties with realism this is actually a very good film. As a 25 year teacher I can honestly say that what may have appeared outrageous in 1984 is pretty close to reality today.

Frustrated teachers, out of the loop administrators, a total lack of discipline, students bringing a smörgåsbord of baggage to class and a stubborn school board that puts the money above the needs of the students.

Yes, an occasional affair does happen between teacher and pupil and the possibility that a school staff member would aid a young student in obtaining an abortion is not that far fetched. Teaching is like any profession in that there is excellence, mediocrity and total ineptitude. In some cases the issue of low pay is something of a myth although no one in education is getting rich. If so many believe that teachers have it easy why aren't college graduates breaking down the doors to get in?

What I like about "Teachers" is that it portrays professionals that truly place the needs of the students first even if their methods are unconventional. Give me one teacher like Nick Nolte's character instead of 10 Dittos. Forget the mantra "looks good, is good" and admit mistakes. The community responds best to the truth.

Students in any school situation respond to the sincerity of their teachers. Put the young people first and don't be afraid to walk around in their shoes once in a while.

I enjoy "Teachers" and I am happy with the used VHS copy I found on eBay. A DVD would be nice from MGM considering the crap from the same era that has been released.

T2 3-D: Battle Across Time (1996 Video)

The best of the theme park films!

[30 December 2005]

Make sure your glasses are clean!

Very impressive mixture of film with live stage effects. Unlike most films of this format the 3-D effects are more subtle and realistic. The stage lighting, smoke effects and live actors are well synchronized with the film.

The pre-show is actually entertaining and provides an important backstory. Since James Cameron was actually involved in this project we have not only the original performers from T-2 but the feel of that film.

The climax has a great jolt for the audience!

Soarin' (2001)

Get the good seats!

[30 December 2005]

A true interactive film.

Fantastic short film that is shown in the Omnimax format. The detail of the large format is spectacular. Try to sit in the front row of seats so you don't have to see the legs of other viewers. This experience is worth the wait in line.

This is a simulated ride that is very subtle with a breeze blowing in your face, the scents of the forest and the orange groves as well as gentle movement that really feels like flight. I found myself lifting my legs as we passed over the tree line on the mountains.

Take this ride!

House on Greenapple Road (1970 TV Movie)

Now it is available!

[9/10 · 19 December 2005]

I saw the initial telecast of this crime drama on ABC in 1970. The Sunday Night Movie was usually a theatrical film trimmed for broadcast and every so often a made for TV "world premiere" was shown as well. This was one of the best of those in-house TV movies.

I was in junior high and it made quite an impression at the time. Well-acted, more sophisticated than many of the procedurals we have on television today. Not gratuitous but pretty graphic for the time on ABC.

Christopher George was an under-appreciated actor who was often cast as the heavy. Here he gave a layered, realistic performance as Lt. Dan August.

I recently found a DVD-R copy of this title at www.adifferentcity.com. The quality was pretty good and it was great to see the movie after 34 years!

Black Moon Rising (1986)

Dodge Daytona Turbo!

[8/10 · 18 September 2005]

Great film that takes me back to the '80s in a good way.

I agree with the positive reviews already posted and fondly remember "Black Moon Rising" projected on the giant screen at the Virgina Theater in Champaign, IL. The car chase scenes are tremendous and they don't trash the Dodge Daytona Turbo. I was driving the same car at the time and it has always been my favorite vehicle.

Considering the participation of John Carpenter and Roger Corman it really is a "good little film" as everyone seem to call it. New World released several of these small gems in the '80s. "The Philadelphia Experiment" and "Eddie and the Cruisers" come to mind. Small budgets, great stories and terrific acting in films that actually improve with age.

Any film with Tommy Lee Jones is worth a look and Linda Hamilton is always a looker. Check it out.

Song of the South (1946)

I'll decide, thank you! (possible DVD release in 2006!)

[18 July 2005]

It seems that several reviewers would lock this film up and not allow anyone to see it. I have just purchased one of the bootleg editions from eBay because I have never had an opportunity to see it in any form.

Disney, along with most filmmakers of the era, was guilty of stereotyping minorities. The crows in "Dumbo", the Native Americans in "Peter Pan" and the Siamese cat in "The Aristocats." Even "Fantasia" had some racist elements excised from the Beethoven sequence.

As a cultural curiosity I would like to make up my own mind on this film and not have it done by would be censors. We're not talking about graphic violence or strong sexual content. I would like to judge what I believe was a well-intentioned effort at promoting positive race relations. If I find it to be offensive and degrading I will not allow my children to view it until they are mature enough to decide for themselves.

On another note, it has been reported by more than one Internet source that Disney is planning a 2-disc release of this film in the fall of 2006 to coincide with its 60th anniversary. Google the title and learn the details!

The War of the Worlds (1953)

Current video version is lacking but help is on the way!

[10/10 · 17 June 2005]

Finally we're getting a special collector's edition DVD of the 1953 George Pal version of "The War of the Worlds." It is due Novmeber 1, 2005 and if it has the stereo soundtrack, a featurette and comments from Gene Barry and Ann Robinson, I will take back every rotten thing I have ever said about Paramount/Viacom.

By the way, it's a great film! Yes, the Spielberg re-imagination is likely to be spectacular but this is the original classic that scared the hell out of my generation when it aired on NBC and ABC in the late '60s. If fact, it ran several times on both networks and was one of Paramount's most successful films of the 1950s. Released just prior to Cinemascope and VistaVision, it still is an impressive version of the Welles classic with exciting miniature and mechanical effects. It's the soundtrack that has been lacking in recent video editions.

For some reason the region 2 DVD has stereo sound as does the LaserDisc version from the early '90s. Now the rest of us will hopefully be able to appreciate that pulsing, terrifying soundtrack that thrilled theater audiences in 1953.

The Chorus (2004)

Share this film

[10/10 · 25 May 2005]

As a public school choir director I was thrilled to see a movie that celebrated the joy of singing. At the end of the semester I ran "The Chorus" for all of my students and the response was astounding. A French film with subtitles that kept the rehearsal room totally silent for two days of classes. Fantastic.

I sincerely hope this fine film is given an honest opportunity to succeed in the U.S. We don't need a Disney remake in English with updated pop songs. This charming import is the real deal.

As a teacher I always trust the sometimes brutal honesty that high school students express about films and music. My experience this semester has been that "The Chorus" is a winner.

If you like this movie recommend it to others as it deserves to find its audience.

Fire (1977 TV Movie)

You wanna see something funny?

[29 December 2003]

"Fire!" is an okay disaster flick that was above average in quality for '70s TV flicks. The movie is dead serious but the preview is not.

See how Warner Home Video sold this title by clicking on the trailers icon. It's funny!

The Last House on the Left (1972)

How do you like your terror?

[9/10 · 24 December 2003]

If you like the digital polish of recent horror movies you will likely find "The Last House on the Left" crude and amateur-like. By today's standards and budgets this is true. It's this very quality, however, that makes it a horror gem.

Shot in 16mm on a shoestring budget LHOTL has an eerie, reality-TV feel as you watch it. The killers are horrible because there are no smug one-liners or scary movie cliches. They are mortal and they make mortal mistakes. Krug is one scary character because the docudrama style of the film makes him more realistic. His crimes are hideous and we see the victims suffer horrible deaths. Not at all pleasant to watch because deep down the viewer knows this type of crime could really happen.

The complete edition on DVD is fantastic with restored graphic footage cut upon its initial release. The extras are the real story as you find out that Wes Craven and Sean Cunningham are intelligent filmmakers who knew what they were doing with this movie. They wanted to shock and terrify.

It's also interesting to hear the interviews with the cast members and hear of their initial disgust with the script.

Sure, LHOTL may look crude and a bit silly at first glance. But do yourself a favor and watch the reissue at night with the lights out and see if it doesn't get under your skin just a little bit.

Hurry Sundown (1967)

Poor have great sex!

[29 November 2003]

This is the most embarrassing excuse for a serious picture I have ever seen.

I'm sure "Hurry Sundown" tested the pre-ratings MPAA for it's supposedly frank depiction of sexual themes. It probably required television editing as ABC ran this film several times in the early '70s.

You could cut the sexual tension with a knife if it wasn't so funny. Jane Fonda seductively playing the sax with Michael Caine was probably suggestive enough to cause the censors to get nervous. But then we have Faye Dunaway's cartoonish overacting in that bedroom scene with John Phillip Law. At least poor white trash have healthy sex lives.

The only thing criminal about this movie is that it attempted to tackle the thorny subject of race relations in the 1940s in such a cheap, heavy handed manner.