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Reviews
Maleficent (2014)
Excellent re-imagining
As a huge fan of the original Sleeping Beauty I really needed this to meet my expectations...and it did not disappoint! It stumbles to get going, but once Jolie enters it becomes a gripping fairytale adventure! The scene where Maleficent places the curse on Aurora is almost lifted right out of the original. After that though, it becomes its own version. Don't worry, all of the original "pieces" are there, but re-sewn into a different story quilt. It's fun to pick out the 1959 elements and see how they are re-imagined here. I always wondered how Maleficent communicated with her raven...that's explained here. Neat. The interaction between Aurora and Maleficent is a brilliant plot device. It allows for a deeper storyline and character development. Personally I don't think Elle Fanning is well suited as Aurora. She isn't strong enough and, frankly, not pretty enough. But Angelina Jolie is spot on! She captures all the nuances and conflicting emotions of Maleficent and creates a much more complex character. Over all, what they did to Sleeping Beauty here works so much better than how they re-imagined Alice in Wonderland a few years back. One thing...for a PG rating it's quite dark and violent. Granted it's fantasy violence but still, it should be PG13.
Godzilla (2014)
Brilliant!
If you're a fan of the original Godzilla this is a must see! If you're not, buy a large tub of popcorn and extra large soda and go see what is already the best movie of the summer! It's an old fashioned monster movie in the truest sense. There's no story, the dialogue is shallow and only meant to push the plot along, and the acting borders on the melodramatic. But the real genius is how it has the feel of Godzilla from the 50's, achieved in part by the 3D effects that help simulate the backdrop special effects of yesteryear. Even the music is reminiscent of the over-the-top scores from the 50's. (Maybe Alexandre Desplat, the busiest composer in Hollywood, will finally win an Oscar.) It uses modern technology to give the feel of an old black and white summer popcorn flick. Brilliant! Younger and unsavvy movie goers probably won't get it, but it seems perfectly clear to me what they're doing here. This doesn't mean the special effects don't look good; quite the contrary. The monster and destruction scenes are edge of your seat thrilling! A movie like this would never be nominated for best picture, but in a certain way it probably should be for its achievement in throwback film making using modern sensibilities. Genius!
Party Monster (2003)
Not as bad as some say...in fact it's actually quite good.
I can appreciate why some people don't like this movie. However I would venture a guess that these same reviewers have not seen actual footage of the Club Kids or interviews with Michael Alig or James St. James. If you think that Macaulay Culkin and/or Seth Green are acting badly, they're not
that's really how Michael and James are, their speech and mannerisms! Watching the 1998 documentary of the same name should do the trick. I was, more than ever, impressed with Seth Green whose St. James is uncanny. Green's performance is marked by enthusiasm, tongue-in-cheek humor, and a certain charisma that makes him own every scene he is in in only a way that Seth Green can do. If this film could get more exposure, and with some campaigning, I truly believe he is deserving of a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at next year's Oscars.
As far as the filming goes
it is low budget to be sure and does it look like it? You betcha! But I like the pseudo-documentary feel it creates, like there's someone there with an 8mm camera filming as these people's lives go down the toilet. And let's face it, this movie is not always accurate to the facts (as many have pointed out), but why should it?? I mean, Michael Alig's life has no meaning to me of and in itself; clearly there is something more going on here other than your basic point-A-to-point-B bio-pic. Rather what the filmmakers have done is presented a movie about a lethal combination of apathy and excess and the inevitable implosion that results in everyone's lives. This is evident from the very beginning where the main characters display an unhealthy self-awareness of themselves as characters in the movie we are watching: "This is MY movie," each of them say. Their competitiveness and self-indulgence evolve into a particular inhumanness that, at best, is self-destructive. Outwardly these characters are pathetic, yet misunderstood. They search for individualism in a conformist and capitalistic society. Now, did the film makers do all of this intentionally? I haven't a clue
all I know is that it works.
Ok folks, it's not the greatest movie ever made, but it is worth checking out
if only for the fine performances by Culkin and especially by Seth Green.
The Attic Expeditions (2001)
"A horror film for smart people"
I just finished watching the DVD and can't wait to see it again! Jeremy Kasten does a great job for his first movie. He creates an atmospheric, unsettling, and at times just plain weird journey into subjective reality. The film has a certain insecure tension -- just when you think you're putting it together, Kasten throws in another piece of the puzzle and you have to re-think what you thought you knew. I enjoy films that don't spoon-feed me the answers, but rather allow me to draw my own conclusions. I also like the use of the unreliable narrator...the last 20 minutes is a roller-coaster ride! Jeffrey Combs is absolutely perfect as Doctor Ek, and Seth Green is hilarious yet unnerving as the mysterious Douglas. Seth always brings multiple levels to his characters, and I rate this as one of his best performances. Don't be put off by the fact that this movie may be referred to as "low budget" - in my opinion, that fact makes the production all that more sincere. The DVD will give those with a home theater system a good workout and add to the overall experience...and watch it after the sun goes down with all the lights out too!
Billy Elliot (2000)
More than just a feel-good movie
At first glance Billy Elliot might seem like just the latest feel-good drama...but it is so much more this time. On the surface it is about a family trapped by poverty in a small mining town. It is from this "hell" that Billy is able to ultimately escape, unlike his father, brother or nana.
But looking deeper, this excellent film is about freedom of expression. Stephan Daldry marvelously juxtaposes Billy's ballet training against the fighting union members toward the scabs. It is about standing up for what you believe and expressing it in the only way you know how, which climaxes when Billy dances in front of his father in defiance...just as his father stands up against the scabs. I also thought they did a fine job of breaking down stereotypes. This is done through Billy's relationship with his friend Michael. The film makes it clear that a boy interested in dancing is not destined to be gay and that "manly" activities are nothing more than traditional and dead weight for people who fear change. In the end they all escape from the poor mining town: Billy literally; the rest of his family emotionally.
I'm sure we will see more of Jamie Bell (Billy), not because of his well-done dancing but because of the energy and pathos he brings to the role. This one isn't just another feel-good movie; rather it speaks to us about where we should be headed as a society.
Stonebrook (1999)
Good for Indie fans & a must for Seth Green fans
While this independent film is flawed, it is nevertheless a gem and time worth spent. If you like suspense-yarns that don't spoon-feed you all the plot connections, you will have fun watching this one. On the other hand, if you need to have everything spelled out for you, this one may be a brain-struggle. Personally, I favor movies that let me do a bit of the work myself. But whatever camp you're in, I think you will ultimately walk away having enjoyed it.
Another reason to check this one out is Seth Green who, as always, is in top form. What I like about Seth is how he always brings flair and depth to his characterizations. He is a charming and talented actor, so I wish he had had more screen time. Brad Rowe is well suited as the farm boy lost in a big city, but his performance lacks dimension.
For those who haven't seen it, try not and read too much on this movie before seeing it. I've deliberately not delved into what the movie is all about here...you'll have fun finding that out yourself!
Road Trip (2000)
A recipe for comedy
Start with the setting and characters of Animal House, add the humor and pacing of American Pie, and stir in the style and flare of the Farrelly brothers.... Sound like a good recipe?...then you're going love this movie! There's some really funny stuff in this one that's perfect for the summer fare, and Seann William Scott is quickly becoming one of my favorite actors. He's got a certain comic style and charm that is very appealing. Now...having said all of that, I will close by saying the movie wasn't as funny as I thought it would be...go figure!
Final Destination (2000)
Fasten your seat belts!
I can't remember the last time I saw a movie that genuinely kept me on the edge of my seat. Final Destination is a true roller coaster ride. It is not your "typical teen-age horror flick." This one is original with cleverly crafted and blocked death sequences. I promise you...you _will_ jump! And of course it has Devon Sawa who is a charming and talented actor (check him out in Idle Hands for a great performance). Don't read too many reviews that might accidentally give something away! In fact stop reading this now and just go see this great movie...and be ready for the ride of your life!
Airborne (1993)
Airborne offers some pleasant surprises
I'll have to admit I was pleasantly surprised with this movie. It's not the greatest film ever made, but I doubt that is what the film makers were going for. Instead this surfing/roller-blade romp is an entertaining, fun and realistic story of teenagers coping with peer pressuresomething we can all relate to. Shane McDermott is well suited for the "kid out of water," and his way of handling the "bully" situations is a lesson to be learned by all. The roller-blade sequences are fantastic to watch, even if you're not in to that sort of thing. Seth Green is perfect as the geekybut coolcousin that's always picked on; Green's performance is definitely a precursor to his talent as Kenny in Can't Hardly Wait. Two other reasons to like this flick are the always delightful Edie McClurg and Stewart Copeland's rhythmically exciting music. Check this oneyou won't be disappointed!
Ticks (1993)
Fans of low budget horror and Seth Green: this one's for you!
While I was watchng this movie I couldn't help but think that while Peter Scolari was filming this "Friday the 13th meets Arachnaphobia" low budget horror, his "Bosom Buddies" co-star, Tom Hanks, was off earning an oscar for Forrest Gump. Don't get me wrong...I like Peter Scolari; he just seems so out of place in this movie. That aside, if you're a fan of this genre, especially of the straight-to-video variety, you won't want to miss this one. It has everything for you: two-dimensional characters, gore, bad dialogue, gore, cheesy special effects, no plot or storyline what-so-ever, and, oh yeah, I almost forgot...gore. My only real complaint is that there is little to no camp. It's those moments of overdone camera work and melodramatic line delivery that make these "B-movie" romps real gems to have in one's video collection. The closest we get to any kind of decent camp is in the characters of Sir and his sidekick henchman, Jerry. Only these two offer us that overly theatrical style of acting that has the viewer thinking, "they've got to be geniuses!"
You will also want to check this one out if you're a fan of Seth Green. Much of the action centers around him as he has quite a bit of screen time. A very talented actor, Seth is the only cast member that actually attempts to flesh out his character and add some dimension to the role. Unforunately, this venue won't allow him to do that. It is also fun to watch Seth not take the whole thing too seriously. Watch him carefully in the vet's office during the autopsy scenehe's actually trying to hold back some laughter! All of this put together does make Ticks a worth while 85 minutes to spend watching it.
Stuart Little (1999)
Stuart good for the little ones
This is a fine movie to bring the little (pun intended) ones to. Parents should find nothing offensive or overly frightful in this good adaptation of E. B. White's children's novel. It presents some good traditional lessons like, "winning isn't everything, it's how you play the game," and some new ones (that even some adults need to learn) like, "you can't hold others responsible when things don't go your way." The kiddies should be fascinated by the excellent blend of CGI and live-action. Particularly noteworthy is the scene with the alley cats in the tree hunting down Stuart. There's some fine detail to watch for throughout. You actually start to believe these animals can talk and show emotion just like humans! Unfortunately, great special effects do not a great movie make, and parents might find this one a sacrafice for the sake of their children to get through. My recommendation to survive all the silly, sugar-coated, overwrought goodie-goodie dialogue and scenery is to see it as a kind of dark humor, especially in the performances of Geena Davis and Hugh Laurie. But it is Nathan Lane who steals the show. His voice-over as Snowbell - the resentful, snide, yet "mousey" house pet - is delightful. I can't imagine anyone else other than Lane doing the voice. So while the kids are enjoying the real show, the adults can have something to snicker at - but turn your head and do it to yourself, after all this one is for the children.
Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo (1999)
Deuce comes through with the laughs
When I went to see this flick I thought all the laughs were probably in the trailer. Not true! This one comes through. Yes, it is 100% Toilet and Below-the-Belt humor, but as I've said before--and the problem with that is...? I don't think anyone can say they didn't expect it to be anything more than that style of humor. So if you're easily offended by those type of jokes or think they're just too silly, you may as well skip this one. If your not however, you are in for 90 minutes of non-stop laughter. Get your snacks before it starts because the pacing is fast, and it's joke after joke. Ironically, what makes this movie work so well is the way Schneider is not center stage. Oh sure, the story revolves around him, but it is the collection of characters around him and their twisted quirks that bring the comedy home. Schneider is more suited for this low key capacity while leaving the jokes and sight gags to the supporting cast. This doesn't mean Deuce is the best thing out there; but if you're looking for some decent laughs this one won't disappoint you. And hey, there's even a message in the whole thing to boot--something about accepting people for who they are and not how they look or act.
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999)
Spy Who Shagged Me is a great movie on its own
This is a very funny movie. Those who think it is a copy of the first one are dead wrong. The first movie was a parody while this one is strictly situational humor. Is a lot of it toilet humor? Yes, indeed. And the problem with that is...? Mike Myers is a genius at sight gags, and this movie shows of that talent. He also has a great team working with him: Mindy Sterling is a superior comedienne in her own right, Rob Lowe's Robert Wagner is uncanny, and the talented Seth Green is perfect as Dr. Evil's rebellious son. When you see this movie don't expect it to be just like the first one. Mike Myers has given us something different and just as funny.