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artylrobb
Reviews
Rocky Balboa (2006)
You can lick your wounds or paint with the blood. Brilliant, encouraging film
Regardless of whether you have appreciated the series, Sylvester's acting skills or boxing movies generally, this film is very special. Yes, seeing the first Rocky film is beneficial, but no. 6 stands in a class of its own quality-wise.
Sylvester Stallone has this in common with Rocky; he will take a great deal on the chin to get where he wants to go and this time it really paid off. Why? Because it is so down to earth, relevant and encouraging. It deals with breakdowns in family relationships, expectations we may or may not have of friendships, loss, hurt, life's unfairness but most of all, the benefits of a positive attitude despite adversity. Probably the most memorable quote in the film is "It ain't how hard you hit, it's how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward..." It has left an imprint on my life because it is so relevant to everyone's life. Lick your wounds or paint with the blood. (That was mine:) Acting-wise, Stallone really comes into his own when dealing with things, which are on his heart. I think the whole cast does well, but I want in particular to point out that Sly cannot be criticised here. It is so convincing that it is hard to distinguish between real-life and story as he is so passionate about what he wants to say but don't worry - it doesn't get preachy.
Story-line: I went to see the film not having followed the series and not really knowing what to expect and after seeing it, I wasn't sure I understood it, but one thing I did know, was that I wanted to see it again. Second time and after having seen Rocky 1, I understood the significance of so much dialogue and so little action and it has become one of my favourite films to watch again. This is an intricately woven story that cannot fail to impress.
There is something larger than life about this film and I think you should see it, and if you have, I think you should see it again:)
Man Dancin' (2003)
A (sometimes comedic) gangster action and thought-provoking drama about a guy just out of prison wanting to leave a world of crime but it follows him around.
When I first heard about Man Dancin', I was told it had parallels to the story of Christ. This worried me slightly because, trying to give a message often becomes contrived, but the amazing thing about this film is, it was able to combine a strong and well-structured storyline with a thought-provoking message. It doesn't faff about trying to please the churched and, in my opinion, paints a pretty believable gang environment.
There is a gripping drama, with great humour and a gut-wrenching finale. It is well-acted, well-directed and WAY under advertised.
In my opinion, a must see! Well done Norman Stone and co! Leah
I'll Be There (2003)
The ultimate feel-good movie and what's wrong with that?
I must admit I really enjoyed this film. Not because it had something profound to say, but simply because it is positive and has a very amusing, Scottish 'front man'. Craig, you're braw! You really can act the rock star from the smile to the stage appearance! I was also very impressed by Church - very natural. Maybe this film could help her go far?
I watched the film with commentary since Ferguson was commentating and found it rather amusing to note that he really had had a motorbike accident (not in the way described in the film) and had broken a rib and hurt his arm. Although you don't think about it in ignorance, it does explain a few things when you know. A must-see for everyone who doesn't stick there nose up at happy film :)