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laryan
Reviews
Independence Day (1996)
Sometimes, you just want to have fun.
"War of the Worlds" has a history in America. Based on an H.G. Wells story, it caused mass hysteria during the depression when first broadcast as an (unannounced) radio play. The 1953 movie of the same name has long been considered a Science Fiction classic. "Independence Day" is the 1990s, Hollywood version of the same story. There are no real surprises on this three day journey of technically superior aliens invading and destroying the earth, but the trip is well worth it thanks to a great ensemble cast, terrific special effects, and a quirky script.
Will Smith heads the cast as Marine pilot Captain Steve Hiller, a one-liner kind of hero whose goal is to be an astronaut, but he is challenged as the star of the picture by Jeff Goldblum (playing David Levinson), the MIT techo-geek who first realizes the threat of the alien ships. In a wonderfully woven (and very convenient) plot, their lives entwine with those of the President and a drunken crop-dusting Russell Casse. Judd Hirsh and Harvey Fierstein also shine in supporting roles.
But perhaps the special effects are really the star as the aliens rampage and thoroughly destroy Washington DC, New York City, and L.A. As I said, there are no real surprises, but sometimes you just want to kick back and enjoy a movie.
Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)
Happy You Will Be
Everything that was wrong with Episode 1 is either gone or cut back severely. Everything that is good about Episodes 4, 5, and 6, with the exception of Han Solo (Harrison Ford), is here. It was worth standing in line for two hours among people half my age, to see on the premiere.
Look, most people have already read the reviews and know the plot outline. You've already decided to see it. But let me tell you some things you can look forward to seeing.
Young Anakin is growing up and taking his Jedi training seriously. He's a great pilot and was such a reminder of Luke Skywalker except for his arrogance. He knows he's the best, whereas Luke only thought he was good. Watch the stance and the emotions that pass on Anakin's face. All foreshadowing of who he will be. Yet there is still a weakness in him that makes him more appealing.
Obi-wan is a little older and just perfect. In him, we can see the older Ben Kenobi peering out from time to time. Padme is looser this time around and we begin to see exactly why 'Ani' has been in love with her these ten years.
There are plenty of new planets, locales, and locals to give delight. Plus very little Jar Jar in this one! Palpatine uses his proximity to young Skywalker to brush that arrogant ego.
Some odd things... it is quite a surprise to see the first stormtrooper and find they are... they are the... they are the good guys! And the good side of the force is being muddied by the dark side.
The best thing about the movie, however, is Yoda. Sure, in Episode 1, we see an old Yoda, not the ancient one we are used to, but Episode 2 will stand out as Yoda's film. He rocks, he rolls, he kicks butt.
All in all, see it on the big screen at least once.
You will be happy.
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Whose Line Is It Anyway? (1998)
The most 'make me laugh out loud' show on TV
I admit to being a Drew Carey fan, so I had to catch the premier of "Wliia" just to support one of my favorite comic talents. I had heard that improv was Carey's first love and that he imported the show from England (I'm also a fan of Brit-coms). From the first few moments though, I found a show that consistantly makes me laugh--out loud and a lot.
Drew's humor and quick thinking make him an excellent host. And the talent pool of Colin Mochrie, Ryan Stiles and Wayne Brady simply polish it to perfection. I always admire Wayne's ability to sing about anything, in every style known to man. Ryan and Colin can work magic together and at times, seem capable of almost reading each other's mind. The witty repartee between Drew and the comedians is priceless, especially when the jokes are turned on Drew.
I finally got to see the British original and, opinionated as I am, find the American version to be much more wittier and genuinely laugh-at-loud. This is an excellent show with an excellent crew! I give 1000 points to Laura Hall on the piano, but, of course, the points don't matter.
Beyond the Prairie: The True Story of Laura Ingalls Wilder (1999)
The Truth about the True Story of Laura Ingalls Wilder
Saying this movie is more true than the TV series is like saying a tiger is a better pet than a lion. Neither of them make good pets, regardless.
I enjoyed the fact that some of the details were not overlooked. Pa (well played by Richard Thomas) had a beard and played the violin. However, I was disappointed in the script overall.
One of my favorite parts of the Little House series is the confrontation between Laura and her future sister-in-law, Eliza Jane Wilder. I also disliked the way Laura was forced into teaching by her father. This is how Laura told the story in any of her books. Another irritating point, Almanzo Wilder had a matched pair of Morgans. Skip and Barnum came later. Laura did not nearly break her engagement because she wanted to travel.
Like many movies these days, The Powers That Be were determined to re-write history and place feminists in roles. I recall nothing in the book that has Caroline Ingalls going off on Charles about wanting to move further west. I recall nothing about Laura Ingalls wanting to consumate her marriage in an abandoned homesite out in the open. This film couldn't even keep Laura in a sun bonnet, placing her instead in a beat up man's hat that looked like something Indiana Jones threw out.
I wouldn't have this big of a problem with the movie if it did not claim to be the "true" story. I had no problem with the flights of fancy the TV show took because it only claimed to be based on the life and works of Laura Ingalls. But if you claim it is the "true" story, then make it the true story. Or don't do it.