tragiclaura5 Reviews

The Life of David Gale (2003)

Disappointment

[3/10 · 31 March 2003]

I wanted this film to be great, I really did. And it was really good through the first hour or so. Then it turned into a preposterous left-wing political statement. I hate that--I can respect whatever position people have on issues, but I hate it being shoved down my throat in such a heavy handed way. Regardless of that, the story is simply preposterous--I didn't buy it for one second. A big disappointment.

Used Cars (1980)

Hee-larious

[8/10 · 31 March 2003]

I saw this movie the first time when I was a kid and recently saw it again. This movie is HILARIOUS, right up there with The Blues Brothers and other eary comedy classics. This is for people who like outrageous un-PC comedy--prepare to laugh yourself silly!

Designing Woman (1957)

Very Enjoyable

[8/10 · 24 March 2003]

Cute and charming movie. Bacall and Peck have great chemistry as a newlywed couple who have more differences than they think starting out together. Bacall is funny and chic in her gorgeous gowns by Helen Rose and Peck is funny and charming as a gruff sports writer. This is a true gem.

The Shining (1997)

Much Better than the Kubrick Film

[8/10 · 21 March 2003]

For fans of the book, you know how completely different the Kubrick film is from the book. I think that this mini series is 10X better than the film. This story is not about Jack Nicholson running around like a ham chewing scenery and blood gushing everywhere. I've always read The Shining as a sad story about the tragedy of the breakdown of a family. Really it's not about possession, it's about alcoholism and the devastating effects it has on a family. This version deals with that. The story unfolds slowly allowing you to care about the characters and what happens to them. The Kubrick film is cold and unfeeling, completely miscast and style over substance. FOr fans of the book who want to get to the essence of the story, this is the version you want. I was doubtful that I would like and accept these actors in these roles, but they work and are believeable and effective.

Thelma & Louise (1991)

We'll be drinking margaritas by the sea, mamasita!

[10/10 · 7 March 2003]

Boy oh boy, where to start with this one? This movie affected me so deeply when it first came out. I saw it many times in the theater and was blown away every single time. Deep and powerful, yet hilarious and fun in many parts. This one is flawless. My girlfriends and I still quote lines from this. This movie is NOT man bashing. It has some very powerful things to say about choices, friendship and the life that you make for yourself. Truly memorable and the kind of movie that really stays with you.

Stepmom (1998)

What a Waste

[4/10 · 5 April 2002]

This movie has lots of potential but constantly falls short. Susan Sarandon is so talented, it's a shame to see her wasted in a boring role like this. Julia Roberts has aility, but she annoys the heck out of me.

There's so much in this film that is hard to swallow--most especially the ridiculously unrealistic "revenge" taken against a little girl's teaser at school. Come on!!! That would never happen.

THe film looks good, but says nothing except "Can't we all just get along?" Nothing new.

The Turning Point (1977)

Terrific

[10/10 · 5 April 2002]

The Turning Point is a beautiful film about the ballet world. Any ballet fan would adore this movie as it is more like a modernized version The Red Shoes. The dancing is great, and I love seeing 1970s New York.

The drama feels real, and the performances of the two leads are great and believable.

Guys would probably think this a dull "chick flick" but trust me--it's great!

Nashville (1975)

Best Movie

[10/10 · 5 April 2002]

Nashville is a great movie. It is so multilayered, you'll be able to watch it again and again and slowly peel back each layer to see more and more. Amazing all around--amazing ability to hand you dozens of different characters and make you feel like you know each and every one very well. Most movies today can't even make you like even one character, much less 20.

Songs are memorable, some are hilariously bad, others are quite good. Hilariously funny at times, poignant and thought-provoking and heartbreaking. Amazing film.