lee3993 Reviews

Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

Pan's Labyrinth : A-MAZE-ZING

[10/10 · 20 May 2007]

I finally saw "Pan's Labyrinth" for the first time recently on DVD. I was hesitant to see it at the movies because I knew I would have to read subtitles, which usually means I could miss some very important dialog if I didn't pay close attention. What was I waiting for!!! I must say that it is easily the best foreign language film I have ever seen. Reading subtitles has never been so much fun. Movies of this caliber usually come around once in a generation. And after "Lord of the Rings", I was sure that it would be 20 years before I would see another film as entertaining as this one. Although I am not a big fan of foreign language films, I was totally amazed at the magical storytelling and visual feasts displayed here. Although the film is rated R, it does not contain any drug content or sex scenes, even though the violence is quite graphic at times. I would recommend it for the whole family, but with parental guidance for the youngest minds. "Pan's Labyrinth is one of the best movies ever made. Without a doubt, this film is an instant classic, on par with other classics of the genre like "The Wizard of Oz", "Lord of the Rings", and "Star Wars". Don't miss it!!!

Horror of Dracula (1958)

Hammer Films Greatest Achievement!!!

[10/10 · 22 March 2007]

Agent Starling versus Hannibal Lecter in "Silence of the Lambs", Blondie versus Angel Eyes in "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly", Luke Skywalker versus Darth Vader in "Star Wars", Dorothy versus the Wicked Witch in "The Wizard of Oz" and Moses versus Ramses in "The Ten Commandments",etc,etc, were all classic displays of good against evil in the world of film making. However, none of these can compare to the historic duel between the infamous Count Dracula and Professor Abraham Van Helsing. Although numerous films about vampires have included these characters, 1958's "Horror of Dracula" is without a doubt the best. Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing are equally mesmerizing as Dracula and Van Helsing in this all-time horror classic. Christopher Lee plays the most menacing vampire in the history of cinema and Peter Cushing is just as convincing as the vampire killer who is determined to send the blood thirsty beast back to Hell. The two actors matched wits so well together that their roles were reprized in several sequels. But none of them comes close to matching the artistry, pageantry, atmosphere, or terror of Hammer Films "Horror of Dracula"!

300 (2006)

Russell Crowe and "Gladiator" - move over!!!

[10/10 · 12 March 2007]

In my opinion the most recent movies of this kind don't live up to expectations. 2004's epics "Alexander" and "Troy", and 2005's "Kingdom of Heaven", were all serviceable but fell short of being great films. In the recently released epic "300", that trend came to a screeching halt. This movie is unlike anything I have ever seen. Although the scenery is obviously computer generated, it is simply breathtaking. Some fans may argue that it looks like a Playstation game, but that only makes it that much more unique and enjoyable . The acting, cinematography, the music, the wardrobe, etc., were all done with precision and style unsurpassed by even "Lord of the Rings"! Although the battle scenes are more violent than anything I have ever seen on film, they are highly stylized and graceful, as in an opera setting, sometimes shown in slow motion. This technique, however, does not hamper the special effects at all. Gerard Butler, who plays King Leonidas, commands the screen with the same presence that has made an international superstar of Russell Crowe, a fellow actor who also excels in captivating audiences with his awareness on stage. Butler's performance as Leonidas is reminiscent of the aforementioned's role as Maximus, in the also superb epic "Gladiator". Although I do recall Butler's exceptional performance as the phantom in 2004's "Phantom of the Opera", nothing would have prepared me for his role as King Leonidas, which has surely catapulted him into the upper echelon of first rate actors in this era. He has to be considered an early odds on favorite to receive a Best Actor Oscar in next years Academy Awards. King Leonidas, the Greek leader and general of a group of soldiers called Spartans, takes on a Persian army of thousands(who want to rule the world)in an effort to remain free as men and as a Country. His dignity, swagger, perilous conviction, and unmatched skill make him a formidable foe for any army. The problem however, is that his army consists of only 300 men, thus the title "300". Although they are grossly outnumbered, these Spartans are highly skilled in the art of killing and quite vicious by nature. Take no prisoners and have no mercy is their pledge. Lena Heady, who stars as Leonidas's wife, Queen Gorgo, is quite convincing as a strong willed woman, who will stand by her King to the end, under any circumstances. David Wenham as Dilios, Dominic West as Theron, and Vincent Regan as Captain, are all stunning as fellow Spartans. Rodrigo Santoro, relatively unknown, is striking as Persian King Xerxes, a giant among men. Some patrons of the genre may be put off by the presence of mythical beasts and unworldly creatures included in the film, but that is partly what sets this movie apart from all others. Unlike "Lord of the Rings", it is based on a true event, but like the comic book that it is adapted from, it is reinvented from the the vivid imaginations of Frank Miller(the comic book's author), and Zack Snyder(the director). With "300", along with 2004's "Dawn of the Dead", Mr. Snyder has become a director not to be taken lightly. Anyone who doesn't like "300" doesn't like movies. My only problem with "300" is the running time, at only 117 minutes, it should have been closer to 3 hours in length. After all, it is an epic.

Enter the Dragon (1973)

Bruce Lee's Masterpiece!!!

[10/10 · 27 February 2007]

At the time of its release "Enter the Dragon" had to be considered the greatest American made martial arts movie of all time. Guess what, after more than thirty years later, its still the greatest. Had Lee lived to complete "Game of Death", it may have surpassed "Enter the Dragon" as his best film. However, by the time of its release, some six years or so after Lee's death, 1978's "Game of Death" had been transformed into a pieced together kung fu mess that probably should never have been released. I'm sure Lee would have considered it a disgrace. In "Enter the Dragon" Lee plays a martial arts expert who enters a martial arts contest located on a secluded island to spy on the events' creator, a ruthless crime lord named Han, whose hideaway is inside this island fortress. Han's real purpose for the contest is to recruit more criminals for his evil empire. Mr. Han is not only a drug dealer, but also kills or has people killed without hesitation if they don't join this empire. His motto is, either you are with me, or you're against me. With an added incentive that I won't reveal, Lee goes after Mr. Han with only one thing in mind, kill or be killed. In the events leading to the ultimate battle with Han, Lee displays the acrobatic skills that made him inarguably the greatest martial arts master of all time, past or present. It is quite obvious that Lee choreographed the majority of the fight scenes for the film. His style, speed, and grace are unmatched even by todays standards. Watch closely as he disposes of Han's top henchmen without breaking a sweat. With an incredible array of skills and tactics, Lee almost singlehandedly devours Han's army. But nothing compares to his climactic showdown with Mr. Han himself, so well staged that you'll probably want to watch the scene over and over. A supporting cast that included Jim Kelly(a martial arts icon in his own right), John Saxon(who studied martial arts under Lee's tutelage), Kien Shih(who plays the infamous Han), Bolo Yeung(A Chinese Hercules, so to speak) and Robert Wall(Hans top henchman), make "Enter the Dragon" arguably the greatest martial arts film ever made, American or foreign. For any patron of the action/drama genre it is a must see. Don't miss it!!

A Soldier's Story (1984)

Howard Rollins - The next Sidney Potier???

[10/10 · 12 February 2007]

In 1981 Howard Rollins' role as Coalhouse Walker, Jr. in the Depression Era drama, "Ragtime", probably paved the way for him to become a first rate black actor in Hollywood. However, it was his role as Capt. Davenport in 1984's "A Soldier's Story" that solidified that thought. Anyone who has seen 1967's "In the Heat of the Night", starring the one and only Sidney Potier, would certainly draw comparisons to the two performances. Rollins' performance is simply marvelous. As a World War II army officer, he is sent by his superiors to a base in a racially divided southern town to investigate the murder of a platoon sergeant under mysterious circumstances. Adolph Caesar's performance as Sgt. Waters(the victim in question), a veteran soldier(who happens to be black)who wreaks with animosity towards his own race is riveting. Although slightly built, his domineering persona, bigoted conviction, and ornery demeanor are imposing to say the least. Denzel Washington,(in one of his early roles) as Pfc. Peterson, is his usual conspicuous self. Wings Hauser, as Lt. Byrd,is perfect as a racist army officer who is a prime suspect in the case. Although most people who haven't seen "A Soldiers Story" will undoubtedly be shocked by its conclusion, it is the perfect ending to a movie that depicts how people are not only preyed upon by other races but also by corrupted descendants of its own lineage. As for Howard Rollins becoming the next Sidney Potier, his downfall and untimely death are well documented. However, the torch was obviously passed on to another actor featured in the film, Mr. Denzel Washington, who, like Sir Sidney Potier, is now considered one of the greatest actors of all time, black or otherwise.

King of New York (1990)

Bravo performance by Christopher Walken!!!

[9/10 · 8 February 2007]

Some would argue whether Christopher Walken's role as Frank White in "King of New York" is his defining moment in filmdom. After all, he did light up the screen in classics such as "The Deer Hunter" and "The Dogs of War", with apologies to his performances in "The Dead Zone" and "At Close Range" to name a few. The biggest problem with "King of New York" is that most people have probably never heard of it. It starred a plethora of up and coming actors as well as seasoned veterans of the industry. Supporting roles by Wesley Snipes, Larry Fishbourne, Steve Buscemi, David Caruso, and Victor Argo amongst others validate that fact. This 1990 sleeper did not garner the attention that it so rightfully deserved mainly because another gangster film produced simultaneously was marketed on a whole different level and starred arguably the biggest name in cinema. "Goodfellas", which starred the iconic Robert Deniro, rightfully stole the show and remains a staple in the ever so popular gangster genre. However, in "King of New York", Christopher Walken is mesmerizing as a crime-lord who, just released from prison, wants to reclaim his turf and clean up the neighborhood, so to speak. He sets out to accomplish this goal without conviction. Neither rival crime-lord, nor the local authority, will stand in his way. Although his modus operandi is highly unorthodox, his cool but perilous demeanor make "King of New York" a must see for patrons of the genre.

The Color Purple (1985)

The Academy Awards' Biggest Snub!!!

[10/10 · 7 February 2007]

No motion picture featuring an all-black cast has ever won an Oscar for best picture. "The Color Purple" should have been the first. The fact that this all-time classic was nominated for 11 Oscars without a single win is an atrocity. I doubt if any other movie has ever been so artificially praised yet so deliberately slighted. This movie had everything, a first rate director in Steven Spielberg, arguably the best director of his time, if not all-time. It featured an all-star ensemble with the likes of Danny Glover, Whoopie Goldberg, Adolph Caesar, Oprah Winfrey, Margeret Avery, and Laurence Fishbourne, to name a few. Never mind that the script was adapted from the best selling novel by the distinguished Pulitzer prize winning author, Alice Walker. Every detail of it was orchestrated with precision. The legendary Quincy Jones' music, the cinematography, the makeup, the costume design, and other behind the scenes aspects were all stupendous. The story of how two sisters(Oscar worthy performances by both Goldberg and newcomer Akosia Buria), unwillingly separated as adolescents, finally reunite after years of trials and tribulations is the stuff legends are made of. The only way to describe this historical event is that it is spiritually uplifting, expertly crafted, a genuine and majestic tearjerker in the vein of earlier classics such as "Imitation of Life" and "Gone With the Wind". The Academy should have been ashamed to allow such a rewarding and masterful achievement to go uncrowned.

Shaft (1971)

Shaft's Score Reigns Supreme!!!!

[10/10 · 6 February 2007]

Isaac Hayes was definitely on top of his game when he composed the soundtrack to this legendary film. Although it did win an Oscar for best original song, it probably should have also won for best score. Along with "Superfly", another gem in the black urban drama genre, no other music is more suitable for a motion picture than the soundtrack for "Shaft". Songs like the "Theme from Shaft, "Soulsville", and "Do Your Thing" are just a few of the songs from the soundtrack that make "Shaft" more memorable than standard soul cinema. As for the movie itself, Richard Roundtree, an unknown actor at the time, took a small role as a black private detective and turned it into an icon amongst Afro-American heroes of cinema. This breakthrough in the motion picture industry paved the way for a bevy of motion pictures depicting black actors and actresses standing up to the man. With supporting roles from legendary character actors like Moses Gunn, as Bumpy, a black Godfather type, and Drew Bundini Brown(Muhammed Ali's ringside sidekick) as a henchman for Bumpy, "Shaft" is a notch above most dramas in the so-called black exploitation genre. In 2000, the incomparable Samuel L. Jackson played Shaft in an updated version , but even he didn't give it the pugnacious charisma that Richard Roundtree once did when he donned the black leather jacket and trousers, which were the trade-mark of John Shaft. Can you dig it!!!

Super Fly (1972)

Superfly's Soundtrack Soars!!!!

[10/10 · 25 January 2007]

The soundtrack to this black exploitation classic, with apologies to 1971's Shaft, has to be considered one of the best movie soundtracks of all time, in any genre. Curtis Mayfield's music takes this urban drama to a whole new level. Ron O'Neal stepped into the role of Priest, a pimp/drug dealer who dreams of getting out of the crime business, as though it was written specifically for him. Carl Lee, who plays Eddie, Priest's sleazy partner in crime, is also perfect in a supporting role. Julius Harris, one of the great character actors of his time, is also at his best as Scatter, a seasoned drug dealer who Priest considers his mentor. The remaining cast is more than adequate in this fine piece of cinematic theater. Gordan Parks, Jr.s' direction is also top notch. However, it is the soundtrack that stands out in this drama. That this movie didn't win an Oscar for best score is incomprehensible. There are times when I wandered if the music was made for the movie , or the movie made for the music. So sit back, grab a glass of wine, and enjoy the movie/music of Superfly .

Hulk (2003)

HULK: One that is large, clumsy, or awkward (Webster's dictionary)

[6/10 · 19 January 2007]

That's exactly what this movie is. Large, in that it is well over 2 hours long and probably cost a fortune to make. Clumsy, in that no one wants to see a movie that turns into a cartoon whenever the main character is on screen. And last but not least, awkward, in that similar more successful movies, such as "Spiderman", have proved that live action is what makes a comic book hero come to life on the big screen. If a man could be transformed into a "Predator" or an "Alien" over 20 years ago, surely todays make-up artists can turn one into the "Hulk" in 2003. What were the producers thinking? I can't believe that Stan Lee allowed the makers of the "Hulk" to turn what could and should have been a cinematic breakthrough into a second rate misfire. A fine cast is totally wasted in this convoluted mess. Eric Bana was excellent as Bruce Banner. Sam Elliot and Nick Nolte were also feasible in supporting roles, but the whole concept of transforming from a man into a cartoon character is totally unforgivable in a time when modern technology (CGI for example) allows us to accomplish almost anything on the big screen.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

A Fantasy Event!!!

[10/10 · 18 January 2007]

A good friend of mine once told me about a series of books he had read years ago that was one of his favorites. The author of these books was J.R.R. Tolkien, the title, "Lord of the Rings". I have never been patient enough to read a whole book, especially a series of them. Therefore, when "Lord of the Rings" was released on the big screen I knew very little about the story or it's characters. That same friend advised me to go and see the movie version, which I hesitantly did without high expectations of enjoying it. Even though I am an avid moviegoer, at my age I didn't think a movie of this kind (Fantasy) would grasp my attention long enough to get into the plot. Surely this must be a movie for kids. Man was I wrong, "Lord of the Rings" is not just a movie , it is an event. Not since seeing "The Wizard of Oz" as a child have I enjoyed a movie with so much imagination and creativity. Even at over 3 hours long, I never took my eyes off the screen. At the conclusion I was actually upset that I would have to wait until the next year to see the next chapter. This movie was stupendous in every aspect. The directing, the acting, the wardrobe, cinematography, and the sound track, were all top notch. This is undoubtedly a once in a lifetime theatrical occasion, a true fantasy event. Who knows, I might read the books after all.

Red Dragon (2002)

Edward Norton miscast!!

[6/10 · 16 January 2007]

I am truly a big Edward Norton fan, his role as a victimized choir boy in 1996's "Primal Fear" was played with the conviction and fervor that has made him one of today's elite performers. His recent role as a magician in "The Illunionist" gives credence to that fact. However, in the 2002 thriller "Red Dragon", he plays the role of Will Graham ( a retired FBI agent who comes out of retirement to apprehend a serial killer) about as flat as an out of tune key on a baby grand piano. It seems as though he was just going through the motions. His expression never seems to change under any circumstance, a totally wooden performance. Maybe they should have cast William Petersen to reprise the role that he played in 1986's more polished "Manhunter". In that version William Peterson made audiences believe that he could actually look into the mind of a killer. So much that it appeared to be affecting him physically and emotionally. That role should have led to more prominent roles for him in my opinion. Aside from this casting mistake, "Red Dragon" is a very enjoyable chapter in the Thomas Harris saga.

Equilibrium (2002)

What "The Matrix" should have been!!!

[10/10 · 9 January 2007]

When Christian Bale was cast as the Dark Knight in the latest Batman movie "Batman Begins", his role as John Preston, an elite government agent who stops at nothing to prosecute those who break the law, is probably what caught the eye of that features producers. In the sci-fi sleeper "Equilibrium", Christian Bale has the look and persona of an opera star performing on stage. The fight sequences are so well choreographed that one would have to believe that Bale practices some form of martial arts. He moves with the grace and stealth of a panther, just before it pounces on its prey . "Equilibrium" is much more polished than the more complicated "Matrix". Taye Diggs was also excellently cast as a partner turned adversary. The conclusion could not have been more satisfying. "Equilibrium" should have garnered much more attention as a theatrical release. My guess is that it was not marketed properly, a true hidden gem in the sci-fi genre.

Spider-Man (2002)

"Here Comes the Spiderman"

[9/10 · 8 January 2007]

Finally, a super hero movie that I can sink my teeth into. Not since Christopher Reeve's "Superman" movie have I been so amazed at what modern technology can achieve on the big screen. As a child I loved comic books, and without a doubt my favorite character was "Spiderman". This movie seems to bring to life the hero that I wished I could be growing up in a small town. The only reason I don't give "Spiderman" a 10 is that the Green Goblin's costume was overdone. Willem Dafoe looks more like the goblin without the mask. His character would have been more believable if his mouth could move. They should have just painted him green and used prosthetics to enlarge his ears. Aside from that, the story of Peter Parker becoming the "Spiderman" is just like I remembered it in the comic books. This made the movie that much more enjoyable. Also, Tobie Maguire cast as Spiderman rivals Christopher Reeve's turn as Superman. I just hope that if the Goblin resurfaces (and he probably will - being Spiderman's arch nemesis) in any upcoming Spiderman movies, they change the costume to look more realistic.

Deep Cover (1992)

Bill Duke's masterpiece

[10/10 · 8 January 2007]

In what is probably his best role to date, with apologies to his turns as Ike Turner in the classic "What's Love Got to Do With It", and Morpheus in the "Matrix" series, Laurence Fishburne plays undercover cop Russell Stevens, who poses as drug dealer John Hull to apprehend a notorious drug kingpin. This role is played in a way that only he could, with the zeal that makes him one of Hollywood's most sought after actors. From the moment that he tells the D.E.A. agent that "the n****** the one that would even answer that question" you know that this role was made for him. Also Jeff Goldblum is at his best as a not-so-honest defense attorney. And let's not forget Gregory Sierra as a sadistic crime lord and one of the best character actors of our time, Clarence Williams III as an honest cop. Add the soundtrack and "Deep Cover" is a bona fide 10 in the urban drama genre, a true masterpiece.

Lady in the Water (2006)

From Alfred Hitchcock to Ed Wood

[3/10 · 5 January 2007]

After viewing "Lady in the Water" at a local theater, I was so displeased and disgruntled that I had to go back and re-watch the excellent "The Sixth Sense" on DVD to assure myself that it was actually as good as "it" was. "Lady in the Water" and 2004's "The Village" were two movies that I highly anticipated seeing but were about as disappointing as I could imagine. After seeing "The Sixth Sense" and 2002's "Signs" I was beginning to believe that M. Night Shyamalan was destined to be the next Alfred Hitchcock of directors in the suspense/thriller genre. I could not have been more wrong. How can a director that was so good at creating elements of surprise and imagination fall from grace so rapidly. I guess I should have seen it coming though, because even though Sixth Sense and Signs were great, he did manage to sandwich 2000's "Unbreakable" between them.