fake_plastic_wings Reviews

Virgin (2003)

Amazing Commentary On Religion and Society

[9/10 · 20 June 2005]

"Virgin" has to be one of the most simple, yet heart wrenching movies I have seen in years. Because of it's low budget, the story and characters really helps the movie flow.

Jessie is a small-town girl, who loves cigarettes and JD, with no religion, and a confused family. When she wakes up after a dance in the middle of the woods with no recollection of sex, Jessie is suddenly convinced she is carrying the child of god. With nobody supporting her, Jessie is forced to try and convince her god fearing town with her visions and instinct.

I cried through the last half hour. It may not have been visually stunning, but the story and characters made up for it. The director really brought up a good question, and makes the viewer ask themselves, "would we have believed Mary now?" I recommend this movie to anyone, religious or not.

Les misérables (2000)

Not enough 'Ponine

[26 September 2004]

This was an amazing adaptation, with a few things that were missing. I agree with the first review that Marius looked way too old, and the other is that in every adaptation of the book, they never give Eponine enough screen time. She wasn't even a character in the version with Claire Danes. Yes, she is a character in this version, but they don't show her death and proclamation of love for Marius. It's one of the most heart-wrenching scenes in the book, and I was disappointed that it's never shown in any of the movies. The musical got it right though.

I liked this version a lot though and wish they would air it again. Les Miserables is one favorite books and timeless story of love, forgiveness and revolution.

The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Masterpiece!

[10/10 · 17 August 2004]

I loved this movie from start to finish. The characters were so exaggerated and the situations were so outrageous that I came to love the family. This is also the kind of movie you have to watch more than one time. Each time I find a little joke or something about the scenery that makes me laugh. Even the most mundane phrases become funny (i.e "Stop belittling me"). The soundtrack is also out of this world. The music fits perfectly, from the Rolling Stones in the tent with Margot & Richie, outlining their relationship, to Elliott Smith's "Needle In The Hay" during Richie's suicide attempt. A few of my friends found it boring, but it all depends on what kind of humor you like. I give my approval this movie to anyone who likes dry/dark humor.