CelluloidWeaver Reviews

Analyze That (2002)

What a total mail-in

[5/10 · 10 December 2002]

You would think that if Robert DeNiro is in a film that he wouldn't cop out and just do a sequel for the hell of it, but that's exactly what this movie is. A sequel just for the hell of it. Billy Crystal comes across as hokey at best and although DeNiro's funny most of the time, why the hell did he decide such a common movie. If he wanted to stick with a franchise or follow up film, why didn't he just wait and do meet 'The Fochers'?

Anyway, I did not find it worth my money's worth and I wouldn't revisit it and do it again if I had the chance to go back in time. My advice, don't waste your time. Eventually a good comedy will come around again - wait for it, rather than see this mail-in!

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

What a completely fantastical film

[10/10 · 10 December 2002]

that deserves every accolade that comes it's way. It is the most astonishing and fresh film experience and I have total respect to Baz Luhrman for having had the vision and the energy and commitment to make this alter world. Nicole Kidman shines just like the diamond's that she sings about and the cinematographer not only kicked ass with the whole film but also photographed her so perfectly that I am sure that this will be one of those movies that will eventually become a classic and be enjoyed by generations to come. Ewan McGregor was exceptionally good too. I never would have imagined Ewan McGregor and Kidman cast opposite each others as love interests but the chemistry between them is absolutely frenetic. A gourgeous viewing experience and a totally mind blowing, satisfying ride. Baz Luhrman rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Looking Through Lillian (2001)

VERY REAL, VERY DISTURBING.

[8/10 · 6 August 2002]

This film is intense. It has a totally cool European sense of style and flair. The music kicks ass and there's a PAYOFF, the likes of which I've never seen before -- Give you a clue: There's this one scene in the movie that is so completely bizarre and f*cked up that at first, and I wasn't the only one, you find yourself chuckling out of sheer nervousness and then it just keeps on going, relentlessly - and you're like "Whoa!" The filmmaker puts Lillian - who is one fine looking, classy, grunge kind of f*cked up chick - in the "driver's" seat throughout. And she's good at it. Some of the material is really uncomfortable to watch. And Sam Bottoms, who I usually don't like - not only goes out on a limb - but " Boldly " goes as far as I've ever seen an actor go physically. I have just one conclusion: This material is so utterly personal and emotional that it's either REAL - and I mean based somewhere in reality - or these guys are GOOD.

Either way, they sure are original. And they got my vote - WAY UP!

The Center of the World (2001)

SEXY ALIENATION

[7/10 · 6 August 2002]

I like this film for what it is. It's really erotic. And it's very very hot. But I'm a sucker for endings, and without spoiling - I have to say I was a little bit disappointed. Don't get me wrong, this is great independent filmmaking, but with a little more guts, and a little more detail of the human condition - and all of it's dysfunctions and twisted little habits - this film might have been a landmark.

Laws of Gravity (1992)

As good and gritty as it gets.

[9/10 · 6 August 2002]

This is raw gutsy independent filmmaking at its very very best. You start to watch this film and you feel like you're about to partake in something legendary. You watch the actors - and you feel some spooky eerie kind of vibe because they are all so REAL. PETER GREEN! This guy is riveting. He's so damn good - I can almost understand why his career seems to have been doomed after " Clean Shaven." This was his debut and how could he ever be better? The photography in this film is compelling to watch! There isn't a minute you doubt and every minute you are in the middle. Why this movie is not available on DVD - or video - is a total mystery. Who distributes movies? I have a theory: distributors are angry little pretentious people who have finally crawled there way to a place of power. They can now - somehow - make huge decisions and take vengeance on a newfound platform, thus undoing countless years of failed attempts at being cool. Funny thing is, the jokes on US - because they are the ones who decide not only what we see - but where, when and how we see it!!! AMAZING. Truly amazing. This movie blows so many films out of the water. If I ever make a film - I'll know exactly what to do if I want it on DVD - make sure it's mediocre, slow and boring. And then spend some time kissing ass to get it sold.

The Night Porter (1974)

See it and Weep

[8/10 · 6 August 2002]

A slow, mesmerizing, naughty film that is raw and so good - it will not be truly embraced and appreciated for all that it is - for years to come. This film is bold - and after you see it and you read the reviews around it - you see the funny little joke that comes out of the wood works. The reviewers come off like repressed, stuck up - uncomfortable morons. This film is an inspiration because it is brutal. And it is ugly. And it is uncompromising. And sadly and sorry to say - so is life. See it and Weep.