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Cherry-Blossom
Reviews
Persuasion (2007)
I had high expectations for this film and was not disappointed!
I must say that I absolutely love this film. Unfortunately I have to disagree with most of the critics by saying that here was so much chemistry between Anne and Wentworth (in my opinion anyway). I like this version a lot better than the one from 1995. Anne appeared lovely and gentle and I thought that Captain Wentworth was not only acting wonderfully, but he is also very handsome (in contradiction with the actor in the BBC film). I think he depicted a man truly in love, but struggling with his mixed feelings towards the object of his affection.
I can seriously not think of anything negative to say about this production. I find it a lot less dreary than the 1995 version. This one kept me interested all the time and I could not wait for the next shot of Anne and Wentworth together.
Further more I think the camera work is great. I love the shots and the close ups of Anne with the beautiful piano music playing in the back. And I also loved the last scene, which I find very beautiful. A lovely climax. My only regret is that I can compare neither of these two versions with the book, for I have not yet read it.
When asked, I will definitely say that I like the 2007 version much better than the one from 1995.
Notre-Dame de Paris (1998)
An absolutely magnificent musical!
"Notre-Dame De Paris" is the best musical I have ever seen! With his stunning voice, Bruno Pelletier (the most wonderful singer I have ever heard of) shines as the poet Gringoire, receiving gold and quadruple platinum for his act. Daniel Lavoie plays Jean-Claude Frollo with his powerful voice. Hélène Ségara takes on the role of Esmeralda spectacularly, and Luck Mervil plays the part of her guardian Clopin with passion. When Garou sings you cannot do anything but listen, since he sounds amazing, interpreting the role of the love-sick Quasimodo. Using his voice, which contains the softest sound I have ever heard, for the role of Phoebus, Patrick Fiori does a truly excellent job. And last but definitely not least, Julie Zenatti uses her unique and special voice for the role of Fleur-De-Lys, at the age of only 17. Richard Cocciante (music) and Luc Plamondon (lyrics) have done the very difficult job of sticking to the story by Victor Hugo, and still managing to create a fantastic and beautiful musical. Because of its success, it has been translated into different languages such as (for instance) English and Italian. This masterpiece is most honestly worth your time!