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Reviews
About Schmidt (2002)
Nicholson in top form
"About Schmidt" is a wonderful character study of Warren Schmidt, a recently widowed,66-year old retiree who comes to the realization that he was not satisfied with his life. If I say anymore, I'm afraid that I will give away too much about the plot. Jack Nicolson gave an unbelievably mesmerizing performance. I am not 66 years old. I am not a retiree. And I did not just lose my wife. My point is, Nicholson's performance was so deep, that as the viewer, I completely felt what is character was feeling. And you will too. Jack Nicholson will win his 4th academy award. I guarantee it. Kathy Bates is also fantastic as a spunky divorcee. It was also a pleasant surprise seeing Howard Hessman (of WKRP in Cincinatti), as her ex-husband. This is not to be missed! 9 out of 10!
Chicago (2002)
I hate musicals, but I loved Chicago
Normally, I can not stand musicals. As a matter of fact I really don't think they should exist. Why? Because they're largely unrealistic. In a typical musical, you have characters that have problems and obstacles to deal with. Then during various times, they break into a song. As much as I hate musicals, I really loved "Chicago." This film was beautifully directed by Rob Marshall, and it was masterfully shot and edited. And finally the main attraction of this masterpiece was the acting. Richard Gere, Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Queen Latifah, and John C. Reilly, were all in top form! This film gets an 8 from yours truly!
Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (2002)
Don't miss it, this film earns a big 10!!!
"Confessions of a dangerous mind" is one of the slickest, coolest films that I have seen in recent memory. It tells the story of the professional life of television icon Chuck Barris, as he delved in a C.I.A lifestyle. First time director George Clooney is as masterful behind the camera as any of the top living directors in Hollywood. The performances of Drew Barrymore, Julia Roberts, George Clooney are very convincing, but most notable is Sam Rockwell, who gives a career performance as Chuck Barris. Don't miss it, this film earns a big 10!!!
The Thing (1982)
John Carpenter's Masterpiece
John Carpenter's "The Thing" is not only a compliment to the 1951 original film, it eclipses it in quality, and originality. "The Thing" is one of the most frightening, absorbing sci-films that I have ever had the pleasure to view. The feel of isolation amongst super-natural terror is very abundant and effective. This is John Carpenter's best film (yes even better than Halloween (1978)), and Kurt Russel gives a career-best performance along with the fine supporting cast of, Wiford Brimley, Richard Dysart, Keith David, Richard Masur, etc. This film is not to be missed by anyone.
What's Opera, Doc? (1957)
Not the funniest, but definitely the most beautiful cartoon ever made
"What's Opera Doc" is not you're typical warner brothers cartoon, as far as humor is concerned. It is very unique for a number of reasons. It is basically an opera brought to the animation genre. Chuck Jones has completely out done himself with this work of art. His use of music, lighting, shadows, and of course animation for "What's Opera Doc?" has no place being compared with any other cartoon. That is what makes "What's Opera Doc" arguably one of the best cartoons ever made. When I first saw this cartoon as a child, I did not like it. I now realize that I did not like it because I did not understand it. Most children will probably have the same re-action. This cartoon deserves nothing lower than a 10 on the rating scale. I don't recall who made this comment; it was either stated by director George Lucas or Steven Spielberg. One of them call "What's Opera Doc?," "The 'Citizen Kane' of cartoons." That is the best and most simplest way to describe this masterpiece.
Burnt Offerings (1976)
Predictable, campy, but interesting horror flick
1976's "Burnt Offerings" is a typical haunted house horror film. For the most part it is nothing more than your typical horror movie of the given genre. It is often predictable. However, it does have a fair share of frightening moments. Some of which still creep me out even after repeat viewings. "Burnt offerings" does give a feel of fear and isolation to me as the viewer. It accomplishes this goal very well, as it leads us to a shocking climax. Oliver Reed, Karen Black, Lee Montgomery, Eileen Heckart, Burgess Meredith, and Bette Davis all give fine performances. And this is a great compliment to the actors considering the weak, campy, and feeble-minded script they had to work with. If you enjoy a good horror film like myself, then "Burnt Offerings" is definitely worth a look. The Chauffeur still gives me nightmares and he'll probably do the same for you. This film is good, but it could have been much better. I give this film 6 out of 10, simply because the script had more holes in it then a healty serving of swiss cheese.
Once Upon a Time in America (1984)
Absolute masterpiece
Sergio Leone's film "Once upon a time in America" is a movie that can not be compared with any other. It tells a lengthty but fruitful tale of jewish gangsters from the early 1920's through the late 1960's. Sergio Leone has created a completely authentic visual representation of a time that has long since past. The film has tremendous acting courtesy of, Robert De Niro, James Woods, Tuesday Weld, Elizabeth McGovern, and Jennifer Connelly (who would go on to win the best actress oscar for 2001's "A beautiful mind.") Even the smaller roles were equally impressive. To name a few: Joe Pesci, Burt Young, Scott Tiler, Rusty Jacobs, and the most entertaining, Danny Aiello. The script leaves no stone unturned in the tragic lives of the characters. The directing is as beautiful as Ennio Morricone's unforgettable and mesmerizing score. This movie may be a challenge for those who have difficulty sitting through long films. "Once upon a time in America" clocks at 3 hours & 47 minutes. This is the long version. Steer clear of the horiffic shorter version. Despite the films length, this film does not drag at all. As there is never a dull moment. This film is a complete masterpiece and it deserves a rating no lower than a 10.
Coal Black and de Sebben Dwarfs (1943)
You don't have to be a racist to love this cartoon
I am definitely not a racist, and those who know me best, know that to be the truth. Now even though "Coal Black and de sebben dwarfs" is loaded with racism, it still is one of the funniest cartoons ever made! Director Robert Clampett was in top form with this warner bros classic.
Baby Puss (1943)
awesome!
One of the funniest Tom & Jerry cartoons ever made. Tom getting dressed up as a baby by a little girl is priceless in itself. Add Jerry, and a few alley cats to the mix, and you got one funny cartoon. Not to be missed!
The Duellists (1977)
Interesting period piece
"The Duellists" is a film that is enveloped with the code of honor during the Napoleonic wars of the early 1800's. This is film tells a tale of two French soligers dueling one another over a 15-year period, and the film depicts how their lives have changed. Harvey Keitel and Keith Carradine were both outstanding in their roles. And the film was an excellent freshman directing effort by Ridley Scott who is best known for "Alien," "Blade Runner," "Thelma & Louise," "Gladiator," and "Black Hawk Down." This film also has some of the most beautiful cinematography and mesmerizing music that you will ever get to see and hear in any film. If the film has any weakness, there is a major one. And that is the writing. The script has a tendeancy to be too literary for its own good. Meaning, it tried to be too faithful to the novel which it is based upon. However, director Ridley Scott made up for this weakness by telling the story beautifully with the camera. I give this film a 7 rating.
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
"Now this is one great New York Film"
"The Taking of Pelham 1,2,3," is a masterfully crafted film. I have watched this film dozens of times over the past 15+ years. No how many times I watch this, I am still on the edge of my seat. That's why this film is a classic. This action packed film is lead by brilliant cast of Walter Mattau, Robert Shaw, & Martin Balsam. Even the smaller roles, (the passagers on the train, the mayor, etc) were very memorable. I am from New York City. As a native New Yorker, this film has a very identifiable feel to it. Now this is one great New York film.