Reviews
Coup (1999)
Really fine documentary work
Before I saw this film I heard it would be leaning to supporting the Turkish army. Then I saw the website and thought just the opposite. Now I know that the filmmakers are just letting over 40 of the key players tell their stories, often contradicting each other, weaving a complicated account of the 4 coups which occurred for very different reasons - really enlightening, original, breathtaking work. Great job!
Cremaster 4 (1995)
Great images, but...
Glacial pacing and ridiculous mythopeia are more than compensated by the uniqueness of his vision, and the gutsiness of his approach. Well worthwhile for discerning viewers. Lovely music, great sets, but it's really a filmed document of his static art.
Babe (1995)
What could have been
This should have been the start of a fabulous series. The sequel is even better than the first. Alas, the fates (and the lack of intelligence of the critics and audience) did not recognize the latter as being the adult masterpiece that it is. There will be no more Babes. What a gorgeous film.
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983)
Ridiculous
Even when I saw it in the theaters as a kid, I thought this was a bit silly. Sappy stuff with the Ewoks, overlong, new creatures not that fantastical (Jabba), an emphasis on the chase scene over the dramatic thrust, a bit of self-importance, and a touch of weariness - the actors look tired and bored, as if publicly greating each other is the way to get audience cheers. Carrie Fisher really needs to quit smoking - sounds like they have too many Marlboros on that planet. Mark Hammill is starting to look, well, not-so-good. Not bad overall, but a clear sign of decline - not as precipitous as the next installment, but the first crack in the Jedi's armor.