macnjnc Reviews

Cabin Fever (2002)

Cabin Fever fails horribly at rekindling the old 80's style horror feel.

[15 September 2003]

After reading reviews before this film was released, I was somewhat excited by the premise that finally a director was going to take horror back to the glory days of the early 80's. I was SADLY mistaken.

Cabin Fever was a horrible attempt by Director Eli Roth, and just a downright bad movie. I felt embarrassed and foolish upon leaving the theater. Old school 80's films like Friday the 13th should take Cabin Fever as a smack in the face and a childish insult for even trying to associate itself with that era.

The ridiculous humor was much too far over the top, and the plot and believability of this film was simply a joke. The ending of this film, with the surviving actor proudly proclaiming that "he made it" then only to be eliminated was just to much to take and a sour and ridiculous end to an already terrible film. Then to top matters off, the credits roll to a scene featuring some comical Hillbilly's with totally over the top country violin music playing in the background that begs you to ask yourself "what in the world I'm I doing in this theater watching this disgusting dog poop of a mess". I feel horrible...and should be slapped for ever stepping foot into the theater in the first place.

Let this be known, I absolutely love "GOOD or even TOLERABLE" horror film, and Cabin Fever is a disgrace to the industry.

One Dark Night (1982)

Throw back old school horror film that; depending on your taste, is good and very hard to find.

[6 May 2002]

Like others who have commented on this movie, I saw One Dark Night at the movie theater when I was a youngster. For a reason I can't seem to put my finger on, this film captured me and has stayed with me through the years. From time to time I love to "go back in time" and view this film over and over again. Right of the bat, I will say that some people may not care for this movie due to it's old school feel and cinematography; but for me it's a movie that I've always cherished and will always hold a special place in my heart.

This movie has a certain bizarre and eerie feel to it that will give you the creeps, and as a matter of fact One Dark Nights oddity and unorthodox flavor is one of the reasons I'm so taken in by it. I'm certainly old school, and I feel like current horror movies have lost the feel and authenticity that some older films seem to have. One Dark Night certainly brings that "certain" flavor.

One Dark Night is the type of movie that would be perfect to watch on a rainy late evening or on Halloween night. I guess you could say it's a cinematic example of what Halloween is all about. It's has lots of spooky elements you look for in horror films: The atmospheric dark Mausoleum, Telekinesis, Gothic funeral procession, sad and thought provoking letters left by children of the dead, spooky graveyard and coroner scenes, a very odd and eerie scene of crime where 6 dead girls are found with a chilling open eyed gaze. It's just good old school horror, they just don't make them like this any more. I also have to give kudos to the background music or the score that's used throughout the film, it's helps the viewers experience. Much more so than I think people realize, the score is a compelling and powerful component that richly adds to the movies effectiveness and brings forth mood which is essential to any good horror film.

The casting in this film also came off(sort of in a unexpected way) very well. Adam West, who played Batman in the original series in the 60's adds to this films folklore. Meg Tilly plays her part very well and has a "look" about herself that seems tailored for a horror movie. The 3 prankish teen girls who were in the High School Sorority clique called "The Sisters "were perfectly casted; including one Sister who always gnawed and chewed on a toothbrush, even up to the point of her demise.....gimmicky indeed. It's finer elements like these that seem to endure me to the film.

Scenes at the end where Raymar tortures members of "The Sisters" in the Mausoleum with corpses could be viewed as silly but still some how manages to come over as okay and tolerable. The movie One Dark Night is currently out of print and could be considered rare. Although some may not agree, I consider the film to be a classic example of the genre. If you are a horror buff like myself, I would recommend this movie, you just may find it to be a keeper, and like it for its odd,creepy terror.

The Wood (1999)

Film that justly chronicles the youth experiences of a typical male growing up in the early 80's era.

[8/10 · 25 June 2000]

The Wood is a very pleasurable and funny film that takes me back in time to my younger years. I was a teenager growing up in the same time period and era that this movie is centered upon. This movie was so cool to me because it was like a flashback of my childhood. All of the events that Roland,(Taye Diggs)Mike,(Omar Epps)and Slim (Richard T Jones) had happen to them were occurrences we all can relate too.

Certainly as a male, I can recall getting a "hard on"(erection) at exactly the wrong time, I remember how scared one can become sitting in class watching the clock knowing you will be involved in a fight after school lets out;and as funny as this scene was portrayed in the movie, believe me it wasn't funny at the time. As testosterone induced youngsters we also conjured up enough boldness to pinch and grab the rear end of the female we had a crush on during recess at school. The Wood should be considered as like the Adolescent Bible, I mean it has all the Rites of Passage that we go through growing up.

Sequences in the movie scream out references to 80's culture like; the music played throughout,Slims hilarious jerri curl,also the fashion statements and the dances that were out at the time. Undoubtedly another of the plots main focuses was on new and early experiences in how young males handle puberty and females. We all wondered about our first sexual experience, the first dance with hot female stud muffin we dreamed about, how awkward and weird it feels putting on a condom in front of a girl the first time.

The Wood served it's purpose. In a well depicted and comical way, this movie takes us back to the days of old, but instead of whatever home town you may be from, The Wood gives it to us Inglewood California style. It doesn't matter though, The Wood makes it apparent that things are the same no matter what place you may call home. A very refreshing movie and a definite thumbs up.

Unlawful Entry (1992)

Suspenseful thriller with a knockout cast of Kurt Russell, Ray Liotta and Madeleine Stowe.

[13 June 2000]

Unlawful Entry along with Breakdown is another Kurt Russell film which is excellent yet doesn't receive the highly acclaimed fanfare. Actually this movie has two main stars (Russell and Ray Liotta) who are pitted against each other, resulting in a very interesting and intense emotional roller coaster.

What makes this movie great is that it has 2 actors who are very good at portraying emotional characters. Russell and Liotta are rivaled by none in depicting characters of struggle, grit,intensity and emotion. The films script and directing by it's producer Jonathan Kaplan is perfect.

Without a doubt there is something about Liotta's eyes, when he speaks, they have emotion written all over them. After watching this movie you feel that even though Liotta's character of Officer Pete Davis was initially a functioning member of society, without a doubt this guy has some serious issues and probably isn't working with a full deck. The scene where he has sex in his police cruiser with the female he earlier stopped for a ticket is almost astonishing and very eerie. This is an indication of this films mood and tone.

Russell meanwhile excellently plays his role as a husband who is struggling dealing with a policeman who; going with his instincts, is a little "off". Madeleine Stowe comes off perfect as his sexy and sultry wife who innocently is unsuspecting in realizing officer Davis's true intentions.

Without a doubt Unlawful Entry is about Michael Carr(Russell)VS Pete Davis. They square off in various ways culminating with a memorable physical confrontation at the end. One scene of note is when Officer Davis responds to the Carrs home on a hoaxed security system call. Officer Davis walks into the couples bedroom holding a flashlight during a lovemaking session and Russell fires off to him "Get the bleep outta my house!!". Later he warns his wife that "this guy is sick and he's after you". Incredibly at the onset Madeleine (Mrs Carr) doesn't believe so.

If you like a fast moving suspenseful thriller then Unlawful Entry has a lot in store for you. Director Jonathan Kaplan treated me to a classic with this score. One of Kurt Russell and Ray Liotta's best films, and neither one are shabby actors. In fact both are 2 of my favorites because they have a way of bringing to life the characters they play. Check this film out.

The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)

Also known as Master killer, one of the best training Shaolin Kung Fu movies ever made featuring Chia Hui Liu (Gordon Liu) as the Master Killer.

[26 April 2000]

Most people who watched old Kung Fu movies know this movie simply as "Master Killer". This is one of a select few non Chang Cheh directed Kung Fu movies that I really, really like. This movie is a reference point of the old training kung fu flicks.

This movie is famous for its rigorous training scenes performed by Chia Hui Liu (Gordon Liu). Somehow you get a feel for how being a student in the Shaolin Temple was really like. All of the teachers are Monks and they sport the usual bald heads accompanied with almost mysterious wisdom. Master Killer seems to be a well directed movie so you become engulfed in the students plight.

Noteworthy about this movie is how as a viewer at first you don't take Master Killer seriously as a fighter, he just doesn't look tough. When he struggles with his kung fu as he goes from one chamber to the next it is uplifting as he slowly becomes better. Master Killer starts off as a huge underdog in this movie, and as much as you laughed at him when he first started to learn, you are amazed at his skill as he progresses. This I feel is what makes Master Killer stand out as one of the best training kung fu movies.

There are many memorable training chambers. One chamber tests his sight, there are 2 burning posts on each side of his head. If he moves his head even the slightest, the sides of his head will be badly burned. He watches an object move from side to side, faster and faster, the object is to move your eyes and not your head; eventually Master Killer master all of the chambers.

Before he can leave the Temple he has to fight one of the Head Monks at the temple, initially he is no match for the monk, but Master Killer invents a "new" kind of fighting weapon, and takes on the head monk again and is able to be victorious. The fight scenes with Gordon and this monk are very good. Many different weapons are used as well as hand to hand combat, this is an excellent example of the essence of Shaolin Kung Fu.

Anyone who loves old kung fu flicks will certainly be taken in by Master Killer (also called "Enter the 36 Chambers). I can't explain it but this is certainly Gordon Liu's signature film; he certainly was made to play..... the Master Killer.

Love & Basketball (2000)

Great movie in which Omar Epps and Sanaa Lathan indulge in a battle of choice, ultimately they are able to have both...Love and Basketball.

[9/10 · 24 April 2000]

Juice, Higher Learning, In To Deep, and The Wood are all films that Omar Epps has acted in. I must say that Omar seems to get noticeably better in each film. Without a doubt he is a talented young actor whom I like a lot. In Love and Basketball Omar brings to life the character Quincy McCall.

This film is also just as much about Monica Wright(Sanaa Lathan) as it is about Quincy, I feel the characters they portray succeed because of excellent directing (Gina Prince) and obvious camaraderie between the two (Monica and Quincy).

Although the movie is centered around basketball, that's really not what the movie is all about. Many social issues are brushed upon throughout the movie. I could mention several of these social themes easily, some of note; trust between father and son, broken mother daughter relationships,stereotypes of female athlete's, infidelity in marriage, I could go on and on.

What really takes this movie over the top though is the bond between Quincy and Monica that stems all the way back to childhood. The movie starts off with Monica and Quincy at 11 years of age and amazingly the special bond seemed to exist between them then too. Although Quincy comes within 2 weeks of marrying his Fiance(played by Tyra Banks) it is obvious the Quincy and Monica were simply meant for each other. Quincy and Monica's relationship teaches us the importance of couples being there for one another no matter what obstacle.

Quincy and Monica have almost a fairy tale relationship but experience the usual woes that plague young couples. Director Gina Prince does an outstanding job of conveying the plight of the two young stars. Not to be taken for granted is the great acting job done in this movie by Monica, she compliments Quincy in this movie very well. As a person who grew up around basketball, this movie was almost perfect for me. Here recently I am so happy with the direction in which Black Films are going. This movie serves as a great example of characters with depth, direction and style. One of the better films I've seen in a while, definite thumbs up.

Escape from Alcatraz (1979)

Accurate, gritty depiction of Alcatraz and the men who stunningly pulled off the getaway.

[24 February 2000]

A good movie, Escape from Alcatraz is not a film of epic proportions as far as action and excitement goes, but more like a true documentary of the prison and the escapees. There is nothing flashy or adrenaline pumping to view. Watching it you feel as though you are there. It slowly lulls you inside the walls of the infamous prison. The noteworthy thing about the film in my view is that it stars Clint Eastwood, a movie star at the time noted and famous for gunslinging films.

Clint deserves a lot of credit for his role in this film, he stars in a movie that you probably wouldn't expect him to be in and act out well. Frank Morris seems mysterious and has a rather subdued presence, he has a way of drawing your curiosity. In sort of a matter of factly way the director lets you know that Frank Morris has an extremely high IQ, and due to his attempted escape from another prison Frank has drawn the watchful eye of the Warden. The director doesn't try to beat it down your throat that Morris is smart, in fact, Morris comes off as rather ordinary but also cunning and calculating. He pulls off several shrewd tactics and carefully masterminded the escape.

Escape from Alcatraz is a classic film of the late 70's era. This is a film that you actually have to "watch". The whole film has an certain vibe that makes you ask questions and wonder. To me there were many noteworthy scenes; in one Frank has been able to get out of his cell and scurry about in the walls to plot the escape, to camouflauge himself being away he makes these dummy heads that looks unbelievably lifelike. The prison guard notices no body movement in Franks cell and calls out Franks name, you are certain that Frank has been caught, then all of a sudden Frank turns around, he's in his bed. Also the scene at the end when Frank and the boys had actually escaped; the prison guard does the same thing, you only see Franks head and no movement, the guard comes in the cell and nudges the head, only to have the dummy head tumble to the floor, a very eerie scene. Finally while the helicopter crew searches the oceanfront in hopes of finding the escapees a guard asks the perplexed warden a puzzling question.... he says "You think they made it". A question till this day remains unanswered. Morris and the boys were never found. Did the sharks get them , did they drown....were they really able to escape the previously considered unpenetrable prison? After their escape the prison was shut down. This movie was based off actual life events. As the credits roll down over the dummyhead of Clint at the end of the movie, you ponder many questions.

To me Escape from Alcatraz is a classic, one of Clints best.

Batman (1989)

Tim Burton succeeds in the 1st film of the Batman series in taking the viewer on a journey to another dimension ...Gotham City.

[9/10 · 22 February 2000]

I can still remember when I went to the movie theater at the local Mall to see Batman when it was first released back in 1989. The anticipation was frenzied to the point that there was ridiculously long lines which stretched out the door and onto outside; you could actually feel and sense the anticipation in the air and throughout the crowd. I remember speculating whether or not the movie would be worth all the hype; as it turned out it was. Another point of note is that sadly in todays modern Hollywood, the spectacle of big release films is nothing like the days of yesteryear. Batman upon release back in 1989, still had it.

The original and first Batman in my opinion is by far the best of the lot. The casting and plot comes off perfectly for a comic book to movie adaptation. Although subject to intense debate and scrutiny actor Michael Keaton I feel was made to play the Capped Crusader with his dark, lifeless eyes glaring through his Batmask. Keatons whole ambiance and conviction perfectly mimicked what one would've envisioned for the role of Batman. Jack Nicholson was also perfect as the Joker. It's hard for one to forget Nicholson's wicked grin and oddly sarcastic humor which perfectly portrayed the Joker to a tee. They both set a certain tone for this movie that somehow brought the comic book to life on screen.

I remember when the movie began it felt as though you were in a different world when viewing Gotham City on the big screen. Gotham City's brilliant architecture was splendidly vivid and displayed an on point Gothic style. Even the inhabitants of the city down to the clothes they wore, were authentic and blended well. I mean the visual scenery was something I certainly noticed, and it came off as dark and eerie; just what one might expect for the Batman movie. I've noticed that the reviews of this movie throughout IMDb all use the adjective "dark" to describe the tone of the film and it's a justified acknowledgment.

In transforming the comic book/TV characters to the movie, Burton was able to pull casting off very well. Commissioner Gordon was just as you expected him to be from the comic and TV series, Vicki Vale plays a background role in the movie but seems to "fit" just right, and Alfred performs well as Bruce Waynes butler who has a special relationship with him stemming from childhood. Also we were all waiting to see the Batmobile or as the Joker would say "the toys, those wonderful toys". The whole movie was filled with clever gadgetry and machinery. The Batmobile lived up to its billing as a sinister ride that shot flames of fire from the exhaust as it rocketed along the Gotham streets. The Bat cave was an intriguing and dark locale where Bruce Wayne was secretly transformed into the mysterious Batman.

The smaller nuances are the things that make the first Batman memorable to me, like the scene where Vicki Vale wakes up in the middle of the night and sees Bruce Wayne hanging upside down from a pole like a bat, the scene where a bullet ricochets off of Batmans glove and wounds Jack Nappier, wickedly defacing him, ultimately transforming him into the wickedly grim faced Joker. The first scene of the movie where we see Batman for the first time and he lifts a disbelieving thief off his feet and tells him to alert his other crooked friends that "I'm Batman".

The fight and action scenes in the movie were also great and packed some suspense. Also take note of Burtons use of grand statues and mannequins throughout the movie, like the collection Bruce Wayne kept in his mansion which drew the admiration of Vicki Vale and newspaper reporter Knox. The various gargoyle statues that were on the buildings throughout Gotham City,these added to the effect and environment of the movie that helped draw the viewer into the comic book vibe.

I feel the the first Batman was definitely a triumph for Tim Burton. The other films that followed the first Batman failed to continue on the true nature of Gotham City and its characters, although Batman Returns comes close. To me Batman stands the test of time as a well casted and directed film that brings the comic book to life. It certainly will always be one of my favorites.

Friday the 13th: Part 3 (1982)

One of the best of the series, also the first one where Jason is truly unleashed.

[9/10 · 7 September 1999]

I am a true horror fan, I absolutely love horror movies and Friday the 13th part 3 is one of my all time favorites. Reading the other viewers comments on this movie was quite interesting, not that my opinion means any more than the next. What you need to understand about the Friday the13th series is this: If you watch this series looking for acting skills and state of the art innovation, this is not the place. Friday the 13th part 3 is classic old school horror. Remember that this movie was made in 1982, that's 17 years ago, so one shouldn't expect the stuff you see now in todays hi tech horror films. No, there's no top notch or even marginal teenage actors, and Steve Miner didn't focus on a reviting, intricate plot, instead his focus was to throw a scare or two at you.

This movie has a certain eerie vibe and atmosphere to it, and at the time it was made a lot of people went to see it because it was in 3D. Upon entering the movie at the theater they gave you these cheap 3D glasses, I mean this was mad cool back then, and funny thing was, the glasses actually helped the effects somewhat. Times were different then and morality could be left behind, you watched and laughed at corny humor and fantasized about what it would be like getting a hot babe and got a pretty good scare while you were at it. It was quite neat to look around the theater and see everyone wearing these neon 3D glasses and wiggling and squirming at each killing scene, I mean the theater was packed and you could tell tension was high. I mean you asked yourself " just how will this guy get hacked"

Even at that young age I remembered the first two Friday the 13ths before it. The 1st one was just an introduction and caught people's attention, Part II was a little more scarier due to Jason's deranged mindset. Jason Voorhees is a complete homicidal lunatic there's no doubt about it, this is the last guy you'd want to meet in the woods. In Part III, he is released to menace and slaughter. Part I was a little dull, Part II was better, Part III was terror. Sure the music is corny now but back then it gave the movie a sadistic feel. You always remember the biker gang with Fox, the old man in the middle of the road who warns them of the omen to come holding an eyeball, you wonder what it would be like to make out with a girl in a hammock bed, the weed head couple in the back of the smoked out van, Shelly and his unleashing to Jason the now infamous hockey mask, seeing Jason's hideous face with the hockey mask off, the one guy who could do the quirky, walking hand stand getting totally obliterated with an axe down the crouch (oouch!) The sheer ridiculousness of Jason squeezing poor Ricks head in so hard his eyes popped out, Part III is a classic. What about the black bald headed biker guy who gets his arm chopped off? there was just something about this guy, I mean he epitomizes a guy who should be in a horror movie. You don't watch a horror movie to rate acting, give me a break. You want to see the different characters, you want to see the guy who's a stud with the ladies, the one guy no girl wants to make out with, the guy who DESERVED to be killed. Part III had all of these elements. I feel Steve Miner did an outstanding job with this film. Jason was totally ruthless in this movie and kept on coming at you. Jason's relentless pursuit and chase of the lone survivor Chris was intense. After Jason is hanged and she opens the barn door only to see him standing there was nice scripting by Miner, all of a sudden the black biker who we assumed was dead reappears only to be savagely hacked apart, even as Jason is hacked in the head with an axe he still extends his arms at Chris to suggest her demise is his ultimate goal, unrelenting terror.

Opinions certainly vary on this film but it is my favorite of the series. Watching it takes me back in time, a perfect getaway to the days of old!

Five Elements Ninjas (1982)

One of Chang Cheh's best which pits Chinese Kung Fu VS. Japanese Ninja's

[9/10 · 5 August 1999]

Super Ninjas along with The Kid with the Golden Arms, 5 Deadly Venoms, Mortal Combat and Unbeatable Dragon are in my estimation the best of Chang Cheh's movies. Super Ninjas is arguably the best.This movie is absolutely a must see if you like Kung Fu movies. This movie features breathtaking choreography from Chang Cheh and a good plot. After defeating the Japanese in a duel the Chinese accept a invitation to take on the "Five Element Ninjas" (Gold,Fire,Water,Wood,Land) and initially are no match due to the fact that all fighters are gruesomely killed. The Japanese then place a secret agent, a female named Sungi to infiltrate the Chinese headquarters; though suspected by one of the remaining Chinese fighters, she is successful in gaining a detailed mapping of Chinese headquarters. The Japanese then raid headquarters and are able to kill the head master along with Lo Mang (Toad). Lo Mang desperately fights to save himself and his master but comes up short due to a devious plot by the Japenese infiltrator Sungi. Another Chinese fighter is captured and tied by rope but manages to escape due to being taught some Ninja by a master long ago. He returns to this master and completes his schooling to master "the ways of the Ninja". Not to ever be forgotten is the Head Ninja, who has to be one of the best villains ever in a Shaw Brother film. Ninja tactics and techniques are displayed in fine detail here. Ninjas have steel claws in their feet, come out of the ground and fly through the air. All the elements that you look for in a superb Kung Fu movie is here, breathtaking stuntsmanship and gore galore. Without a doubt there are many scenes that you won't forget; examples, one fighter tripping over his own spilling guts, the head Ninja being dismembered at the ending fight, the rock exploding as the Chinese smash through to signal the defeat of the Ninja, the old Ninja master telling the student to "always keep this key, it just might come in handy" and indeed it did, the Samurai fighter saying "loss of a fight means loss of one's life to a Samurai", what about when the Ninja teacher tells his students that Ninjas have "many secret fatal skills". Unforgettable film. One of the best and most unforgettable endings I've ever seen. 9 and a half out of 10 on the scale.

Five Deadly Venoms (1978)

Brilliantly plotted Kung Fu film which is highly acclaimed but could've been better.

[9/10 · 4 August 1999]

For all the hoopla, respect and recognition this film gets from Kung Fu historians, it still lacks glaringly in a couple critical areas: action and fight scenes. But I must say that the plot is probably the best and most original I've ever seen in a martial arts film. Five Deadly Venoms without a doubt is a must see, not only that, a movie you can watch again and again; but I also must say that after watching it you feel it could have been even better. It somehow leaves you wanting something, you want more. The producer Chang Cheh sets up the storyline beautifully for a potential masterpeice but doesn't follow through with giving us more of the action we want. The fighting styles in the movie really captures the viewer (Centipede,Snake,Scorpion,Lizard,Toad) and they are shown, but battles are noticeably short. The Toad and Snake styles are particularly intriguing and should have been showcased much, much more, in fact the Toad is killed off by the middle of the movie. Interestingly enough with this movie, the absence of constant action or fighting leads to development of a great plot, this is one of the few kung fu films where you are really interested in the storyline and care about the outcome. This movie has a dark and vicious tone to it and you are drawn into the vibe. Sinister weapons and torture tactics are used throughout the movie and adds to the movies feel. To start off the movie and to introduce the Poison Clan producer Chang Cheh takes us to a grimy dungeon. The ending fight scenes are certainly good but seem muffled and somehow you expected more. Still though this movie is one of Shaw Brothers best and is quite enjoyable. My overall impression of the movie would conclude with this: The styles the fighters used are merely shown to us and not showcased in detail, sad thing is , the director had the goods for something extraordinary right at his fingertips and didn't expand on it. I am left wondering what could have been with this movie, still one of the best though. 8 out of 10 on the scale.

Invincible Shaolin (1978)

Unbeatable Dragon is one of Director Chang Cheh's better offerings

[8/10 · 9 July 1999]

If you are a big Chang Cheh movie fan this movie is one of his better directorial jobs. Somehow this movie saddens you because most of the major characters (the venoms) are pitted against each other. Because of a cunning plot by the Ching government North Shaolin and South Shaolin are against one another when they are really factions of the same school operating individually. Because of a court order the Ching government uses the best teachers from both the North and South Shaolin to train it's guards. A head Ching official arranges a contest at Ching headquarters to see which school teachers are superior to the other. North Shaolin proves to be far better in this friendly duel. The head Ching official then kills the 3 South Shaolin teachers and frames the North Shaolin teachers for their death, returning their bodies to South Shaolin. South Shaolin is now furious and sends 3 more students to try and defeat the North Shaolin teachers. Another "friendly" duel is arranged and tempers flare. Two more South Shaolin students are killed by North Shaolin teachers. Realizing that South Shaolin is obviously no match for North Shaolin the teacher appoints 3 more students to undergo intense training on particular styles to offset the strengths of the North Shaolin students. These training scenes are some of the best ever to grace the martial arts screen. One South Sholin student (Lo Mang) learns Mantis style, another student (Phillip Kwok) learns Lightskill and the Pole and the last student (Wei Pei, snake) learns a style that specializes in combat in close to the opponent. After they master these skills they are now ready to take revenge they swore to their dying master. At the last minute the two schools realize there is a plot by the Chings to destroy both the schools; but because they swore to their teacher they fight anyway. A classic martial arts film, one of the best Chang Cheh movies ever made. 8/10 on the scale.

A Thin Line Between Love and Hate (1996)

Comedy with a surprisingly evil and sinister twist.

[8/10 · 29 June 1999]

A Thin Line Between Love And Hate is a very solid movie production job from Martin Lawrence. The film provides a nice mix of drama and comedy. The story line revolves around Darnell (Martin Lawrence) Brandi (Lynn Whitfield) and Mia (Regina King). Darnell is a ladies man who thinks he says all the right things to the ladies. He runs across Brandi and makes a bet with his buddy Tee (Bobby Brown) that he would have sex with her once he gets to know her. Eventually he gets his chance and hits paydirt with Brandi sexually. Brandi was hurt before by her cheating husband and holds brutal grudges for "womanizing" men (She killed her ex husband after finding him in bed with another women) As her relationship with Darnell develops she warns him that she is not the type of woman to be hurt and taken advantage of. The Producer does a good job of bringing along Darnel's rekindling relationship with ex flame Mia. Somehow you feel that Darnel and Mia's future relationship holds promise despite Darnel's flirtatious ways. Some of the things that happen to Darnel because of his womanizing ways you feel are justified but Brandi is out for serious revenge. Brandi inflicts injury to herself and convinces police that Darnel is the perpetrator, she leaves his Truck on bricks outside of a police station, she stops at nothing. Darnel calls off his relationship with Mia due to threats by Brandi that she would hurt Mia. Determined to settle the score once and for all he goes to Brandi beautiful estate overlooking the Pacific....

> Thin Line Between Love And Hate was much better than I thought it would be. The movie definitely is funny but also provides plenty of drama. Lynn Whitfield is ever convincing in her role as Brandi, her piercing eyes slamming a knife down wickedly into her birthday cake is a scene worth remembering. What adds greatly to the movie is the fact that everything is centered around a nightclub which adds a certain feel and environment. This is a movie that is better than you would think. A definite thumbs up 8/10 on the scale.

The 7 Grandmasters (1977)

A Joseph Kuo masterpiece !!!

[9/10 · 1 June 1999]

Producer Joseph Kuo scores big with this film. Most true Kung Fu historians feel it is one of the best Martial Arts movies ever made. Great blend of comedy and action. The movie centers around the teacher (San Kwan Chun) and his quest to defeat the 7 Grandmasters. He and his students travel around China fighting one master at a time. Amongst this; pupil Lee Yee Min tries to convince the teacher to take him as a student. His efforts fail several times before the teacher gives in. He then practices his skills against his elder classmates who he eventually surpasses. Lee Ye Min wants to learn Kung Fu badly because of his fathers murder in a friendly duel. Once an expert he then can seek out a duel with the killer of his father. He initially is told that the killer was of all people his own teacher. He swore and took an oath that he would avenge his father's death, so he and the teacher fight using practically the same same style (Pia Ma 7 strikes) After using stolen secret strikes learned from another teacher he badly wounds his teacher but he won't kill him. His secret teacher reappears and tells Lee that he's the actual killer of his father. Now with teacher at his side he can seek revenge. The final battle is epic with Lee's teacher (San Kwan Chun) remembering the last thing his dying teacher told him: that "All Pia Ma Strikes Are Corelated". The teacher then gives his pupil proper advice and he defeats his fathers actual killer. An excellent martial arts film that stays away from too many corny lines that other Kung Fu flicks have. It does have silly humor but it flows well with the flick so it is tolerable. Good plot and story line, with many different fighting styles used (Monkey,Mantis,Tiger, Etc) You can't go wrong here, this film is certainly one of the best.

Poetic Justice (1993)

A John Singleton movie that's a lot better than reviews would suggest.

[21 May 1999]

Poetic Justice is the type of film that will sneak up on you. Some parts of the movie are a little slow, but as a whole the movie is very good. Director Singleton is able to bring a certain mood to this film; wavering between dark, funny and compassionate. Justice (Janet Jackson) is a directionless and lost female who expresses her wants and sorrows through poetry. Because of deaths in her family she is alone.

She reluctantly agrees to go on a mail trip with a friend (Regina King) and her male comrads. Little does she know that she would find her diamond in the rough in Lucky (Shakur). Although Lucky has a very hard exterior, Justice; through many trails and tribulations locates the good in him. It turns out that they (Justice and Lucky) are just what each other needs. Some may not be able to relate to this film, but if you can chances are you will really like the movie. This movie was not really made for mainstream audiences, just for certain people. I am one who was taken in by it, and it is one of my favorites. Great movie which probably appeals more to demographically urban viewers. Regina King and Joe Torry do a good job of providing support to the lead actors throughout.

Lock Up (1989)

Very under rated Stallone movie, whose storyline accurately fits his acting credentials.

[21 May 1999]

Lock Up I feel is one of Stallone's better movie's. The storyline seems to fit the acting character of Stallone very well. Sutherland's depiction as the Warden "Drumgroole" also was excellent. As always, Stallone seems to epitomize struggle in movies very well. In the movie Stallone is a convict just trying to ride his time out, but the warden makes it very hard on him. John Amos also depicts the caring but hard as nails Prison guard "Micon" very well. In my opinion Lock Up is a Top Level Stallone film, and didn't get nearly the credit it deserved. I certainly would recommend this film. One word that can describe this film would be "EMOTIONAL" If you like a tough, gritty prison movie, then you will certainly like Lockup.

The Kid with the Golden Arm (1979)

The best movie Chang Cheh ever made is Golden Arms, not 5 Deadly Venoms.

[9/10 · 21 May 1999]

Kid with the Golden Arms is a superb and classic kung fu movie. If you want to know what old 70's Kung Fu flicks are all about, this is your reference point. This is the movie that highlights the Toad (Lo Mang) from the 5 Deadly Venoms. It's cast of of characters is unparalleled and are excellent examples of the Kung Fu genre. Members of the "Chi Saw Gang" are 1. Golden Arms( Lo Mang): who doesn't need weapons because he is so good, he's virtually unbeatable. Golden Arms depicts the ultimate Kung Fu Warrior whose strength is unbelievable; 2. Silverspear played by the centipede displays flawless swordplay, and totes a menacing silver tipped pole used to perfection 3. Brass Head played by another Shaw Brothers strongman; smashes opposition with a steel crown that he wears on his head; 4.Iron Robe wears a Iron Robe that protects his body and yields and intimidating steel Fan as a weapon. Then there is special agent Hi Toe who fights best when he is drunk. Hi Toe is hired by the Gov't to help protect a sizeable shipment of gold that needs transported. Hi Toe is played by the Lizard in the Venom movie (Phillip Kwok). Also in the Movie is Lee played by the snake in 5 deadly Venoms. Lee teams up with an admiring female and is dealt a deathblow from the Poison "Sand Palm" technique, yet somehow excretes the poisons from his skin. Lee wants very badly to be remembered as a hero and feels he can beat Golden Arms only to fall short. Long Axe Short Axe played by the student in the venom movie also graces the screen. The ending fight scenes are classic with agent Hi Toe spitting wine in Golden Arms eyes to blind him. Golden Arms asks Hi Toe that he be spared due to his blindness so he can live the remainder of his life quietly. Lee's girl shows back up at a most unfortunate time to deal Golden Arms his demise. Almost a perfect flick, as good as it gets for Kung Fu Movies. A Shaw Brothers Masterpiece. Also the introduction of the movie when the Gov't Agent (Scorpion) introduces the vicious Chi Saw Gang ; this is a superior lead on into the movie and individually demonstrates the text of their skills. Excellent Chang Cheh production.

Bloody Monkey Master (1977)

Classic hard nosed 70's Kung Fu Flick, accurately portrayed by Chin Kwan Tai

[8/10 · 21 May 1999]

Iron Monkey is one of the best Kung Fu Movies ever made. Straight to the point plot and storyline. The movie has it all. Chin Kwan Tai's portrayal of the "monkey style" is the best I've ever seen in a movie (Monkey style in the 7 Grandmasters is also good) and I've seen all of the great Kung Fu Movies. Of all the "Teachers" in Kung Fu movies, Iron Monkey's teacher the "Bitter Monk" is also the best, he has a certain mystic quality about him. Superb training sequences are shown in mastering the monkey style with the Bitter Monk.. Also the background music flows with the movie excellently. All the elements of a great Kung Fu Movie are here: Shaolin Temple, Monks, great villians portrayed by the master of Eagle's Claw. The opening scene which shows the Monkey Fist and Eagle Claw techniques is top notch. Sound effects of the fighting scenes are also up to par. Some actors in Kung Fu movies don't fit the character they play, not here. Chin Kwan Tai seems tailored to play the role in this movie as Iron Monkey. Kung Fu dedication, words of wisdom and discipline are all theme's throughout Iron Monkey. There is one scene in the movie where a Head monk in Shaolin Temple can sense the presence of revenge and anger in Iron Monkey just by looking deeply in his eyes; he knows its for revenge and tells him of "his bloody debt to settle". Only after seeking this revenge can he be a monk in Shaolin Temple. Iron Monkey ranks right with director Chang Cheh's "Kid with the Golden Arms" and "Unbeatable Dragon" as one of the best Kung Fu movies of all time. 9/10 on the scale.