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Free Rein (2017)
Not sure what age demographic this is geared for
OK, as an equestrian of 40 yrs, I'm really trying to overlook the obvious, but ...it ain't easy.
May I please, please, oh PLEASE, implore to Hollywood, BBC, CBC, LMNOP--whoever makes these shows, to PLEASE a) HIRE an equestrian consultant. B) LISTEN to that consultant and c) do some research?!
The target audience for shows like this, are pony mad kids. I know, I was one of those. But, folks, can we PLEASE have some common sense? I mean, general, safety common sense? Realism? Anything?
*spoiler warning*
In our first episode, it's obvious this is a bit of a comedy/tongue and cheek. OK, that's fine, but we have teens acting out of character for today's day and age, even for an England setting. OK, I'll over look that.
But it's a known fact that any horse person riding on a rural road, will NOT run over people who are walking on it. C'mon Hollywood, let's get real. Let's stop typifying characters that blatantly. Next, and the biggest error is said missing horse.
Folks, horses get loose. We don't panic unless they are worth about a million dollars. OK, if they are worth over 10K, we get a bit worried, but it's a known fact that horses do NOT go far from home. And let me tell you, a horse would NOT be going to the beach. Seriously? Woods, yes--grass and shelter, but not in an area that is totally unnatural to them. And if said horse is 'that dangerous', trust me, he would be in a stall where it was double bolted.(triple, quadruple--trust me, we have some escape artists at every barn I work at).
That's just the first 10 mins of episode 1. So, if this is how it starts...ugh...but, like I said, I am an equestrian, and the sad thing is, the real goings on at a farm are interesting, if you just talk to someone who works at a farm. Go to a farm. Study a farm. Talk to horse people. This looks like someone's researched every bad horse film on the planet, and decided to do them proud and make a worse one. And by worse, I mean completely unrealistic horse situations.
If you have horse mad children, I highly recommend International Velvet--that's a PG-13 rated film. Sylvester (that may be more for old kids given a few situations in that), The Man From Snowy River, Phar Lap, Black Beauty, The Black Stallion. Those films, while they do stretch believability (phar lap is a true story), they are still better made.
Twin Peaks: The Return (2017)
Loving it!
I was a huge fan of Twin Peaks when it came out in 1990. I was sad that the series lost it's punch going into Season 2, and thus, cancelled. Lynch has always been a favorite of mine because I love how he interprets the world---off beat funny to drastically violent.
And folks, this is not for kids. In true Lynch style, it will make you laugh one minute and have your mouth drop to the floor the next.
I'm at Episode 7 and we already have a very interesting direction this plot is taking---but, those who aren't familiar with Lynch's style, you may be bored. He has a tendency for a slower pace for some moments, which will pack a punch when the scene surges forwards. I love it because of it's uniqueness and off beat characters (and some fun new ones!)
This story line is not cookie cutter--if you need things explained to you, this may not be for you. It's open for interpretation and for the viewer to have their own thoughts and theories.
What I love is how Lynch has propelled Twin Peaks into the 21st century, how he's incorporated modern day technology along with the olden days feel that he loves to return to in all his work.
The cast ensemble is brilliant, and despite some of the regulars who chose not to return, they are handling their absence well. True fans of Twin Peaks and Lynch won't be disappointed. I'm not. :)
Solace (2015)
A very good film, but could have brilliant
This film was great---but sadly, had the makings of a brilliant film had there not been a lot of problems with post production and supporting case.
Hopkins and Farrell are GENIUS in their roles, and had we seen more of them, and gotten into their story more, this would have been even better. However, I think many scenes were lost in editing, which is a shame because the other supporting cast cannot stand up to them. And it shows. Both of the actors who play the FBI agents are weak, and their lack of ability shows, ruining the pacing and general feel of the film. Farrell and Hopkins end up saving this film, which is obvious every time they are on the screen. It's just a shame they didn't devote the storyline to them both and dropped the excess that throws the films pacing off.
Despite this, it's visually amazing, captivating and intriguing--- and there is a double twist that gets you right at the end.
The sad part is, this film doesn't really know what to focus on: The thriller part of psychic vs psychic or the moral subplot or the FBI hunt, and it does get a bit garbled in the process in regards to pacing.
It's still great and I highly recommend it.
13 Reasons Why (2017)
A problem with the overall story line
I remember reading this book and it didn't sit well, and the mini series also doesn't sit well.
For start, I am an adult, but I have had family commit suicide. Sadly, this story gives a reason for someone ending their lives, and sadly, that isn't always the case. Not everyone has a reason--- mental illness/depression is what took two of my family members. There was nothing that lead up to their choice, other than battling mental illness their whole lives.
That is, in part, what bothers me about this story line: It's saying that this girl was upset about a series of events, and ended her life as a result. Do people not understand just how depressed you have to be to end your life? You stop caring--about everything. You withdraw, you don't talk to people, you don't take care of your appearance----you shut off. I felt Hannah was too positive and the depth of her depression was not accurately depicted. It came across as she was upset about things happening at school, so she killed herself.
There is always more. While what she was dealing with was VERY serious, and can cause severe depression, the character was a fighter and I felt that it was a 'cheap' way to get a character to commit suicide.
I fault none of the actors--ALL performances are spectacular. The story line really should have had an element of her character that struggled with hidden depression prior to these events happening-- people who are suicidal just up and do it, and the planning she took, she was very serious---but yet her attitude was far too positive for me to really believe she would kill herself.
If you look at other films that cover this, Ordinary People captures the mood of depression and suicide far better, in a more realistic manner. While Heather's is a satire, it does cover what suicide and school bullying can do and the media that glorifies it.
When it comes down to it, I feel this story is a bit of a concern that it may be admired all too easily for someone who is really suffering with depression and wishing to end their life, and see all the pretty people in the show and wish to copy it---films that some how--if by accident--glorify suicide cater directly to those who fantasize about it.
I feel this story could have better been told if the main character was stopped and the friends she had band together to help her seek justice, rather then to have her kill herself - something less grim for people of this age range who are already struggling with so much emotionally at that time of their life.
This story seems to say that if a series of events happen and no one listens, kill yourself and the problems will be solved. That sadly only happens in the movies. If you find yourself in a similar situation, you go to anyone who will listen, and if they fail you, DO NOT GIVE UP!
Arrival (2016)
Very emotional film: Wouldn't call it Sci-Fi
How do I start a review of this film? This film really hit me, in all likelihood because I've recently suffered a loss of a loved one.
The whole premise of this film is about changing the way you perceive and think: From the attitude towards 'aliens' to our concept of time.
If you struggle with movies in which you have to think to watch or want a fast paced alien movie, this isn't your film. This is a far more emotionally deep story about a woman who realizes that the aliens she has been brought to communicate with have been showing her glimpses of her future, not her past.
Even in the beginning, you can sort of have an idea that something isn't following a time-line, and that is a constant in the film: Which, I would argue loses viewers because it IS confusing. The short story followed a much more linear concept of time despite the fact the story-line is about following none linear time.
OK, quick lesson on time: We are taught from day one, that time begins and ends. We are born, we grow, we live, we die. That is linear time. None linear time concepts follow a theory that time is occurring simultaneously on different planes. Meaning, 1988 and 2088 are occurring along with right now, 2017. Ever have dejavu? The concept of this by theorists is that, with none linear time, these different time periods can eventually 'catch up' up to each other, thus crossing over at a split second in time, causing you to feel like "I've done this before'.
That's just one theory.
This is a risky film---this and Interstellar are working on intense theories and concepts that most people likely chose not to pursue in education--and trying to condense that knowledge in a 5 minute crash course of a Hollywood film can get lost--and it does in Arrival. The actual science is theory, aside from the linguistic aspects, and furthermore, there IS a pacing issue. It does get VERY slow--for a reason mind you--but I found this to start getting a bit tiresome. It was almost as if something had been edited out in post production.
This is more of an emotional drama about living life, and experiencing all of it: The joy, the heartache, the love, the loss-- -and if you knew your life in advance, would you still choose to follow that same path.
I really liked this movie, despite how emotional it made me. If you've recently suffered a loss of a dear loved one, you might want to put this film on hold---it does hit you hard.
We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)
Reactions, no action
I've seen many a good film translated from book to film. Sadly, this isn't one of them.
For start, there is very little dialogue or even action in this film. Just a lot of reaction. That's fine at pivotal moments, but not every single scene. We have no idea why Eva doesn't bond with Kevin, and we are lead to believe that lack of bonding is the reason her child becomes a sociopath?
It's obvious children who are sociopaths show signs as early as 3, but there are mixed signs here. I'm also astonished at the lack of parenting they display here--why is she left alone with this child constantly if she is over whelmed? The father is never home--it reads like a cliché dysfunctional family. Sociopaths come from loving homes just as much as from dysfunctional homes. It's very apparent we are missing a greater picture of a STORY--and that's just it. There is no story relayed here--if you haven't read the book, you won't know what the heck is going on. Even then, a lot is missed from the book.
What we are left with are great performances of reactions, which over time, get to be very tiresome and wasting the performers. Every time a serious expression is creased in the lines of Tilda Swinton or any of the other performers, you expect to hear dialogue or see a scene...but nothing happens. I think in this entire film, there is probably less then 20 minutes of actual dialogue. For the WHOLE Film!!
I also found the soundtrack irritating----singles music blaring over obviously dramatic moments----to me, this film was ruined in post production.
If you want to watch an artsy film that falls hollow of a great story-line, this is it. If you want to watch a good film, sadly, this is not it. I urge you to read the book prior to seeing the film, or even cheat and pop to Wikipedia for a synopsis of the book. At least then you'd have some idea of what's going on.
But this film will leave you wondering 'why did I just watch that?"
A Sunday Horse (2016)
Pacing a bit off, but interesting.
It's a shame this film some how wasn't thought through well.
As a film, it's badly paced, moderately acted and the editing is bad. We are introduced to people who just disappear later in the film. Why? Why introduce someone if their place in the film wasn't needed?
The biggest issue I have with this film is their time line issue and time period.
Ms Walden rode in the 70s. Touch of Class went on to win the gold in the 1984 summer Olympics with Joe Fargis. I know, I saw them win it when I was 15. (on TV). Therefore, the fact all the riding attire and garments were off by 35 years. Huge problem there. Why not set the film in the correct time?
Second major issue? Ms Walden's accident shown in the film happened in 2009, long after Touch of Class won her gold/went to other owners. Her accident prior to the sale of Touch of class did land her in a wheel chair, but was not the gruesome fall shown. You can see that fall on youtube btw. Truly horrific. I am so glad she is OK.
I know film needs to draw in viewers and alter events to make it more dramatic, but folks, think of your target audience. People who watch horse movies do so because they love horses. Showing something that is inaccurate is insulting. I grew up watching International Velvet, which was probably one of the best horse films out there. While still 'far fetched', the equestrian aspect of the film was thoroughly researched.
Bottom line, it's nice to see the prelude to how Touch of Class developed and her back story, but the film is supposed to encourage and show you the drive Ms Walden has, which started to fall flat, largely due to the fact the actress portraying her was struggling.
I will warn you, it's slow. The horse portions/interactions are far too 'hollywood'. Stuff like that goes on BEHIND your back, not to your face. No one would be outright that rude, because that's not something you have time for. They show these people with far too much time, standing around in riding attire that is far too clean. I work at many top rated farms that look like the ones shown in this film, and guess what? Your boots get muddy, horses are muddy and you get dusty etc. The only time we are pristine is when we are in the show ring.
Emma's Chance (2016)
Cute but a little sad
OK, as a professional who has been riding and competing for over 40 yrs, teaching riders for 30+yrs, I'm not going to grade this as an equestrian. Because it's a film, and a cute, family film.
I did find it a bit slow in parts, and we don't really have a strong identity with Emma--perhaps because she's not sure of who she is either.
For those looking for a 'horsey' movie, I wouldn't even say this is a film with a lot of riding shown. It has horses, but it's not really like Sylvester or International Velvet--with a character looking to compete. This is more of a 'save the day' type film. And, while it may look happy, the ending is rather sad I find (good sad, but still rather sad)
The focus of this is really the rescue organization, and I'm rather surprised at how well funded this organization is! I've rehabbed many rescues, and never had the kind of gear they do ;) But, it doesn't matter: They have saved many horses and donkeys and it's wonderful to see those animals in the film. The one playing Chance is gorgeous---obviously a retired hunter.
Just a side note: We never use the term 'dirty stopper'. Quitter or stopper describes a horse that quits a fence: I've never in my 40 yrs rode a horse that wanted to intentionally throw the rider--and my forte was riding stoppers. I've done my days of flying into fences, and in all instances, they were rider error.
Horses quit at a fence when they are in pain, scared or unsure of themselves. The reality is, not all horses like to jump, or have a certain height they are comfortable with. When they are pushed past their comfort, and even worse, have an accident, it can scare them forever. The key is knowing where to put those horses and not push them past their ability. Also, visual issues are another thing to consider if a horse stops. I've ridden many a blind horse to victory in the hunters/jumpers and in Eventing---a horse only needs 1 good eye, and a a lot of love and confidence. :)
The VVitch: A New-England Folktale (2015)
Brilliantly done!
For start, if you are looking for something like the Blair Witch Project or anything that has an unsteady camera and 'lost footage', this is not the film for you.
If you are looking for something gory and jump out of your seat scary, this isn't the film for you.
This is a film that sets a eerie mood, similar to "The Shining". We have a Puritan Family banished from their plantation and forcing them out into the world on their own.
Set in 1630, this film uses the same dialect of the time, and the beliefs are the same. If you are someone who struggles with religion, this movie also may not be something of interest to you. This film delves into the loss of faith, both figuratively and literally, as a series of events unfold.
It is interesting to see the family's journey on how they descend into their fates, and you are left wondering and questioning many things: A sign of a very well written film.
WARNING: If you are hard of hearing, I would highly recommend you wait until this film is available on DVD with captioning. The actors all have accents and even I had trouble understanding what they were saying (add to that the way they spoke in that time period).
The Witch to me, is a brilliantly shot (natural lighting and using a different aspect ratio to get the sense of isolation), well acted and fascinatingly told. It is a simple story that leaves a big impact, if you are looking for an eerie, haunting film that will make you think. If you are looking for something to scare you and gross you out, you will be disappointed.
Drag Me to Hell (2009)
This is no master piece. So bad....
I'm still trying to find out why everyone thinks this film is wonderful.
First off, we have no storyline. We don't know if this film is funny or scary, the acting is at best 10th grade (and I'm a huge fan of Alison Lohman) I think everyone is forgetting about the fact that there needs to be a strong storyline (it doesn't have this. It has an idea, a concept, but never is fully developed, unless you think the old fashion, standard cop-outs work), good acting and most importantly, characters that you care about.
The characters make no sense. The girl can kill her cat, but not give away the object to foist this horrible thing onto? Where's the logic in this? If she is so focused on herself to kill her cat, when she's stating she's a humanitarian, then she should have no trouble passing along the button to some miserable slime. So, when did she develop morals? Secondly, plot??? Story?? Hello??? Evil Dead had a strong storyline. This does not. in fact, this movie seems to have had an idea, and was made off an idea, and did a typical, Hollywood cop-out ending instead of thinking of a valid way to make this film wrap up in an intelligent way.
Don't waste your money. Go see Knowing. At least the story in that film is strong, original and to me, unique.
I miracoli accadono ancora (1974)
Is this the same film?
I've been looking for the name of this film for years. I was 14 when I believe it was aired on TV in 1983. All I can remember was it was about a teenaged girl, alone, having survived a plane crash AND surviving the Amazon. I remember people were looking for her(family) and that she knew how to take care of herself---she narrates the story and I vividly remember about her knowing that bugs were under her skin. I don't remember much else about this movie, and want to see it again--if this IS the same one--and if any of you have a copy, could you email me at horsecoach4hire@hotmail.com? I'd be curious to attain a copy to see if it is in fact the same film I remember. It was aired on Thanksgiving(US) in 1983, and I was going through problems of my own and this film really impacted heavily on me. Thanks in advance!
The Long Shot (2004)
Sorry, I can't say this was at all accurate
Sorry folks, but if you are looking for a good horse movie, this is NOT one to watch. While I can appreciate the back story, this movie was a mess. Poor acting, editing and research fails this movie.
As an equestrian, there is nothing more frustrating to watch inaccuracies in film. While I would not get too technical, there are blatant, obvious , most BASIC errors made in this film that makes this movie laughable. I've worked with a semi-blind horse, and I know many older horses that went blind, and the fact still remains, each horse handles this differently. The fact that the 'vet' said this horse would not be able to eat or drink is completely incorrect, and really is a poor testament to the research of the team. If this horse had a condition, it should have been mentioned in the film. Horses just don't up and go blind all of a sudden. Also, horses don't lead themselves to a trailer and I know for a fact that blind horses do not load trailers easily.
Also, in regards to other horse aspects of this film. Trainers who work dressage horses do not give up if a horse won't move forwards, riders actually RUN their stirrup irons up before leading a horse around, as it can bruise a horse's shoulders along with ruining those saddles, which can run close to five grand for the top kind. Added to the fact that horses and rider who preform freestyles(kurs) actually ride to music, and that they are warming up a lot sooner than just 'appearing' for their class. They also have time to trot around the ring and cue the music before entering. The horse that was being used was at best, PSG level. He was older, and that was apparent in his movement. While this isn't as much of a problem, by the time you get past all the other inaccuracies, what is left is a movie that really has nothing to stand on.
For people in Hollywood--PLEASE. take the time to research horses for films. There are many, many things I see that are so basic in knowledge, yet films still forget to show these facts. It is frustrating to have young riders come to me for lessons, and except them to run like a Disney movie. True horsemanship requires a lot of work, very few ribbons, and the occasional blood. Lots of sweat, lots of tears, and in the end, it all about the relationship of horse and rider.
Better equestrian movies or movies that families might enjoy are: Internatiol Velvet, Sylvester, Man From Snowy River, Black Stallion, the Horse Whisperer. Sure, these movies also have their quirks/errors, but by and large, had better research and workings with their horses in the films.