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Reviews
Arlington Road (1999)
Whoa! This film could make you question your own home security, take caution in viewing!
I've seen this movie many times over the
years and the opening credits/ sequence
still gives me the chills! By the end I was
almost breathless.
The cast does a very nice job and the plot
is eerie similar to certain past real - life
events before 1999. I'd say the screen
writer did his home work for this one
although it might have freaked him too
just doing all the research.
On a more personal note, I'm glad to
finally see that I wasn't the only one thrown
for a loop after the opening scenes and to
this day, that hasn't changed.
Pet Sematary (2019)
remakes and overdue sequels, Hollywood what happened to your originality?
With horror remakes and sequels, I try to judge
them on their own merits. With Stephen King
movies though, I think he needs his own genre
because he's not planted to a specific one.
Now, the 1989 P S really gave me the creeps
between the music, sound effects and eerie
images, not to mention certain characters had
great make up effects: I couldn't forget
Pascow and Zelda if I tried, whoa!
The remake's modern setting and cast was
good...most of it anyway. Some other
' changes ' worked better than others: the
flashbacks were more subtle and some
dialogue didn't seem as overdone this time
so some of that was a plus.
The new cast was decent but not great
(other than John Lithgow replacing Fred
Gwynne) and the make up effects reminded
me of modern zombie movies, which was a
downfall and the twisted ending wasn't
much better for me.
The cat's aftermath make up was a lot more
gruesome and the burial ground's back story
just didn't have the same eerily effective vibe
the '89 version did
Overall, to enjoy this one it's better to not
have read the book or at least not seen the
original...first.
Firestarter: Rekindled (2002)
I liked this film a lot more than some, apparently...
I wasn't a fan of the original movie, despite liking Drew Barrymore. However, when I saw a basic cable channel was doing this, I was interested instantly, and after starting the two part-er , with the fitting explosive title sequence, my interest just increased, so I watched it. I hadn't seen Malcolm McDowell in much yet, but Dennis Hopper I already knew very well, firstly, from Speed.
The second part followed more of the tradition of Carrie and unwilling fire setting. The first part was a mixture of flashbacks: George C Scott did a good John Rainbird, but M M D, I felt was more convincing as the villainous J R.) displaying the Shop's devious agenda, plus an attempted love interest for Charlie.
One thing that has stayed with me for many years, is a quote/ monologue by John Rainbird, that's listed on here, and I've tried asking about its origin, and it sounds like a paraphrased Bible verse, and if so, which one?
I can't seem to access the F A Q to ask about this, any ideas? Cause it sure seems like it, quoted by a villain or not.
Found (2012)
hot button issues with horrific overtones
I was intrigued by the cover in a local store to take a chance with this one. A horror movie with modern cultural social commentaries. In particular: the results of bullying, how the media can create real violence if the viewer is disturbed enough already. The horror part of the story is the underlying commentary mixed with gory and bizarre sexual violence, of which there's plenty of all three, just hope you can stomache it all...'cause it isn't subtle! The modern cultural commentary has major hot button topics, one for me is adults turning 'blind eye' to what's right in their face, plus those with way out of date ideas. Depending on your taste, this isn't a love or hate movie, but as already noted: the content isn't subtle and certain images/scenes could be etched in your mind long after finishing it. View with extreme caution!!
The Falls: Testament of Love (2013)
heartbreaking, but still fairly good.
For those who have seen the original, but are still considering the sequel hesitantly, go for it! Even if you aren't gay or Mormon, you still may get something out of it. I wasn't too crazy about Chris in the sequel's beginning after RJ comes to see him in Utah, but their love was rekindled rather quickly, even though this ending was bittersweet. I was impressed once again, with the direct approach to religious hypocrisy and intolerance, but also the two male leads, in the end, RJ was very self sacrificing in regards to Chris: not letting him leave his new life for him, which was very moving. Watch the scene with tissues handy, you may need them, I certainly did.
A Heaven for Queers (2011)
The script doesn't always work with message attempt...
While I enjoy most of this film, the education and entertainment mixture doesn't always work. Don't misunderstand me, I'm a Christian but liberal and fairly open minded, but the songs and sexual dialogue could've been toned down somewhat and the tolerance message would've worked better. Even so,Brandon and Matthew's love for each other is clearly shown through their together scenes, those scenes were very cute to me. This film was probably the director's first, but it was good overall, despite the somewhat immature script. Matthew and Brandon's suppressed chemistry and love was obvious, some of Matthew's facial expressions tickle me more with every reviewing. After making their first gay friend after running away, Tommy is a trip too, but doesn't get much screen time, although his lines are rather amusing as well. Compared to Brandon and Matthew's parents, who were downright cruel and heartless) gay or bisexual, I got extremely lucky with my mom, who clearly believes in unconditional love, along with most of my family.
Air Force One (1997)
Even with this being just a movie, a couple scenes floored me!
I saw this movie in theaters for the first time, and I had seen other terrorist movies beforehand. But Gary Oldman as the leading terrorist, somehow, he both angered and surprised me...twice! Two hostages he shot so coldly, I wanted him shot dead after the second one, but then, the movie would be over too soon. Director Wolfgang Petersen, I've known and liked ever since the Neverending Story from 1984, up to the present. I finally reconciled with the two executions, but I still don't agree with them needing to be there, even though, I respect WP's decision to not show the actual shooting of the second, being that it was intense enough already just implying it. I haven't seen Das Boot yet, but I am interested after seeing some of his other work.
The Insider (1999)
I still like this movie. However...
This was one of my first Al Pacino and Russell Crowe movies, but in theaters, it seemed to go on endlessly. The trailer made it look very intriguing and overall, it wasn't too far off. The summary has been told on several websites that I venture, so I'll spare you the repetition. Even before this film came out, I never wanted to smoke, mostly due to my asthma, and more recently, because it just killed my grandma (after being a 40 year smoker, until finally quitting when I was 17, I'm 33 now!)I saw how it affected her, until her agonizing last breathe, and the tobacco industry still infuriates me, because of that! The fact that the industry cares more about money than health issues, despite how harmful their product is, lied about it, threatened Wigand and CBS, makes my blood just boil! Please understand me: I do like this film, but I haven't watched it recently because of just loosing my grandma, I can watch certain scenes, but not the whole thing, I'm just not ready.
Needful Things (1993)
It's 2014, where is the TV version?
I finally read the book a few years ago-rather quickly for me) Oddly enough, I still like the movie as well. Why? Because in regards to book adaptations, movies or TV series) I do something most viewers don't: take them on their own merits. This was one of my first SK movies, I watched the much longer and better version on TNT first, very discouraged that only the theatrical version is available, why I'm not sure, because it needs to be! I've seen several devilish depictions in movies, most of them fairly good, Max VonSydow as Leland Gaunt was very good, starting off as subtly creepy and before long, his evil plans become more clear in horrific and destructive ways, to say the least. But Max isn't the only actor that makes this film work: Bonnie Bedelia and Ed Harris do a very nice job as well. The music by Patrick Doyle from the opening credits to the final battle was a very good piece: I also liked the scene after the church explosion where Alan/ Ed Harris looks outside seeing Mr Gaunt sitting calmly on his shop bench, with an evil smile on his face and smoking a cigarette, clearly admiring his handiwork, his look almost says: come and get me Sheriff, if you dare! The music for this scene was very good, almost indicating a massive confrontation about to begin) The movie, though, sadly, only scratches the surface: a lot more of the town is completely destroyed in the book. The TV version also adds a lot of scenes that don't make the script boring, it makes it more interesting, at least for me!
The Return of Swamp Thing (1989)
Some funny lines...but not all comedy!
I watched this before Wes Craven's original and before completing USA's TV series, which I also enjoyed. This film introduced me to Louis Jourdan-didn't know he was French beforehand, but found out soon after) and Heather Locklear. I enjoyed this film a lot, but the trailer makes it look far too comedic-yes, there are some funny one liners) but this isn't all comedy. The love story, has a kinda beauty and the beast feel. One of my favorite parts in this one, from when I was a kid, was the Arcane mansion explosion: until this film, I hadn't seen an explosion with such an elaborate and unique set up, and honestly, no movie since this has quite topped it. The actors do a nice job-although aside from Heather and Louis, most are rather unknown. I saw WC's original-from a very poor video print) but still liked it, and the TV series by USA network a couple years ago, enjoyed it as well. I for one am not hoping for a remake, but rumors of one are surfacing. Check it out, w/ an open mind...if you haven't already.
Camp Hell (2010)
Horror film? No. Spiritual thriller? No doubt!
I've liked movies that make religious fanaticism look like a scare tactic, and this film depicts that concept very well, but also takes it a little farther. The starring cast does a nice job, Dana Delany and Andrew McCarthy do a very nice job with their roles, although one is much more merciful than the other, when it comes to their son, who goes to the camp. Now, I'm a Christian too, but believe me, I'm far from perfect. I've also had the Bible shoved down my throat a few times, because I'm a liberal Christian, but if/when someone/anyone wants to question that, all bets are off! I don't agree with fire and brimstone preaching or scare tactics to win new believers, but I've seen plenty of it, through an old church and Christian movie productions Cloud Ten Pictures. I don't like shoving my opinions down others' throats, until they try it on me! Now, for those complaining about false advertising-granted Jesse Eisenberg only has a brief role, sorry for being so blunt, but, get over it! This isn't a horror film, this is true, as well, personally I'd call it a spiritual thriller. I also liked it because it shows what may happen if the message gets pushed too hard.
Serial Mom (1994)
My favorite and first John Waters movie
I wasn't familiar with director John Waters or dark/black humor-except the Addams Family movies. But since 1993 to the present, I've familiarized myself w/ a lot more. For starters, this was my first movie by JW and one of the first with Kathleen Turner. I first watched this at age 13, so needless to say, I was rather naive then. I've owned it on VHS, DVD(both editions) so obviously, it's one of my favorites. Along with Kathleen Turner, it also stars Ricki Lake and Matthew Lillard as their adult kids, and Sam Waterston as a rather goofy husband. Most of the murders look so goofy, you can't possibly take this seriously, but maybe that was the point. Plus, her killing motives are goofy, not to mention ridiculous, although most involved slander of her family, subtle or major. Even after (finally) seeing Pink Flamingos- funny but gross) Cecil B. Demented-talk about bizarre) Cry-baby-some good musical numbers, both versions of Hairspray-both fairly enjoyable to me, and lastly, Pecker is probably my least favorite, Serial Mom remains my all-time favorite John Waters movie, to this day.
Orphan (2009)
Despite the clichés, one of the better evil kid movies I've ever seen!
Watched this in theaters in the summer of 2009, w/ an ex-friend, and to start off, let me say, whoa! I expected a female clone to the Good Son with Macaulay Culkin, and even though I liked that one too, this one comes out on top. Granted, there are a few clichés-inept therapists, naive husbands, the only real annoying ones imo. Vera Farmiga and Peter Sarsgaard do a good job as adoptive parents, although she's a lot smarter than he is after certain incidents begin to occur. But, when the twist is revealed, your mouth may drop to the floor, mine sure did! The movie does drag a little, but the twist is well worth waiting for. Vera and Peter's children, esp. Max, the deaf/mute girl, was phenomenal and adorable. The R rating is very well chosen, not just for the violence, but also for the sexual content, which I didn't entirely expect. This film, though very well scripted and acted, is not for kids, under the age of 18. Trust me on this!
I Spit on Your Grave (2010)
This version is better on many levels!
I like both versions of this film, both for their own merits. However, this film is so much better on many levels. The script is more believable, the acting is more convincing and the added story lines didn't hurt for me. Weirdly enough, I do like revenge movies, but only in movies, but these films whip up some wild revenge fantasies for rape victims. The only person other than Jennifer that I had any empathy for was Matthew(like so many others on here and Amazon). Usually, I have no compassion for rapists, but with Matthew, I had to make somewhat of an exception, but his killing was somewhat more merciful, if you can believe that. I've watched it five times, and find something new each time. However, certain people will find both versions potentially disturbing, but you still may enjoy the ride involving her revenge. Check it out!
The Accused (1988)
Angering, and powerful, but worth a one time watch.
This movie was brilliantly acted, by Jodie Foster and Kelly McGillis, at least. However, it's also very hard to watch at times, not to mention infuriating, esp. the rape scene. On the other hand, certain scenes involving the justice system, are pretty angering as well. Don't get me wrong, it is a good movie and very powerful, but anyone-male or female, with any compassion for rape victims regardless of the circumstances, and this "she was asking for it" doesn't fly well with me, either, only a chauvinist would think that! Well, once again, I'm obviously wrong because a lot of men think with the head below the waist instead of their brain. For the record, 98% of the time, I have little to no compassion for rapists, but I do believe slow-minded people can be forced into things, but that is clearly not the case in this film. These men knew exactly what they were doing, and didn't care, that infuriated me!
Teaching Mrs. Tingle (1999)
This movie is worth watching!
Helen Mirren plays a villainous character very well in this film, teacher or not, but to root for her to win the battle in the end is insane. I've read several reviews for this film, most of which liked Helen Mirren's performance only, which is probably not the idea Kevin Williamson had in mind. Granted releasing it in theatres shortly after Columbine was not the best move, but maybe the target audience got the humor of it without taking it seriously. Now, did I enjoy the film? Yes. Would I own it? Definitely! In fact, I already do! The young actors do a nice job with their roles, and Helen Mirren as already stated is very easy to hate, but she chews up the screen with every scene she's in. It's one of the better comedies, imo) than some of the so-called gems they're putting out now, the re-make craze is getting old too, except for some of the horror and revenge flicks.
The story centers around Leigh Ann Watson/Katie Holmes-who's concluding her senior year, but also wants to be her school's best student. But with her history teacher hating her, that goal could be very hard to achieve... Accused of cheating, unjustly, Leigh Ann and two other friends decide to try and reason with her, but their plan backfires, and things get out of control, quickly. Now, their goal was never murder, and it doesn't go that far either, let's just say, her cruelty finally comes back to haunt her in the end, watch it and you'll see.
Trespass (2011)
Joel Schumacher, you've done it again!
I maybe kind of biased-I like JS's movies-except Phone Booth, I also like Nicholas Cage and Nicole Kidman, another problem for expert critics. The script aside from the constant language, is well written, although to be honest, I'm not sure how I'd react in the same situation. The film has several twists and turns that you may not see coming, esp. if this is your first hostage movie, of course, predictable doesn't always mean 'bad', unless it's too predictable, in which case, even I likely won't like it. Anyway before judging this film too harshly, give it a shot, you may be surprised. The plot seems pretty simple at first-a family on the verge of collapse, quickly turns into a fight for survival as their home is invaded by vicious thieves. Maybe this film was a flop on account of being too realistic, food for thought.
Funny Games (2007)
Funny Games? Ha! Try Wicked Mind Games
This film floored me! I've seen torture, rape, gruesome murders and seemingly everything in between, that is until I saw this film. Mind games galore, Jekyll and Hyde characters, the family wasn't hard to care about for me, but the villains, grrrrr! This was a poor excuse for horror, I sat thru it hoping for some resolution, to which there is none. Naomi Watts and Tim Roth do their best with what they have to work with, but even they can't save a poorly written script. Now, your probably wondering why I despise this film so much, well if my description above isn't enough, all I can/will say is watch the movie for yourself, and figure it out. Have a nice day!
Fall from Grace (2007)
Religious intolerance, accept it or shut it out
I'll be honest from the get-go: I haven't seen this film, but would like to. I despise the rev. message of hatred and intolerance, and I think even God would agree with that, but I don't hate him. However, even the film is likely very well done, nothing Phelps and his ilk have to say, will get me to understand/respect him, cause he doesn't know the meaning of the word,why should I show him any back? I know a lot of religious people will disagree with that, because of Jesus' teachings, but I do believe in an eye for an eye, within reason, of course. As for loving your enemies, with people like Phelps, I find that almost impossible, and will not back down from that opinion. I don't believe God hates anyone, but some of our actions, I do believe he frowns upon: killing, raping, prejudice/hatred, the list could go on, but I'm running out of steam.I don't claim to be an expert by any spectrum, but I'm hoping readers get something out of this comment, I try very hard not to step on anyone's toes, but it sometimes backfires.
Update, August 28, 2012) well I just watched this on Netflix last night, and I'm sorry to say that my intitial review pretty much sums it up, basically, I don't have that much to add. However, I'll leave you with this: even though it may anger you, it's required viewing for anyone who wants to join the civil rights movement, so you know what you're dealing with, too bad it only scratches the surface.
American Gothic (1987)
Twisted and bizarre, but effective by director John Hough
This film is much clearer on DVD. Infamous director John Hough-of a few weird Disney movies from the late seventies, created this horror gem. Centered around Cynthia, who recently lost her infant child is now being released from a mental institution. Her husband decides to take her and a few friends on a trip to sooth her trauma. But the trip is cut short by plane troubles and they are forced to land on a remote island. Before long, they meet Ma and Pa(Yvonne DeCarlo and Rod Steiger)at the only house on the island who seem nice and hospitable, at first. Agreeing to spend the night, the friends soon start disappearing and inexplicably end up dead, some more brutally than others. I give this movie 8 out of 10 stars because the description on the back case reveals a little too much, making the film a little too easy to predict. Welcome to American Gothic, but no "Devil's Play" is allowed! John Hough is known for Escape to/Return from Witch Mountain and Watcher in the Woods, and took a big leap with this, it was a little unsettling at times too.
Pink Flamingos (1972)
Love it or hate it, it was the first John Waters movie
This is the first John Waters movie I saw that I can't recommend multiple viewings-it almost made me sick the second viewing, oh well. Without going into the plot as I'm sure most viewers know by now, it's a love it or hate it movie, but I give it at 10 for its time of originality. I for one like Serial Mom with Kathleen Turner, also by John Waters, a lot better than this. This may have been his first movie ever made, but Serial Mom was my first JW movie, therefore it's my favorite. Different tastes for different people, I guess. Even though I did like the film, I felt two viewings was plenty, Serial Mom I've lost count with how many times I've watched that, I even own it, so you can tell I love that one, a friend of mine has Pink Flamingoes that I bought for him, and I'm happy with that. It is funny but gross, so I like it, I don't love it.