Reviews
Pleasantville (1998)
Not a very challenging movie
This was not a challenging movie for Hollywood, ideologically. How difficult it must have been to convince a studio to fund a film in which Smaltown, America is shown for the homogeneous, prudish, uncreative and, worst of all, boring, place that it is.
You get the sense the director had an affair and this movie was his attempt to convince his wife it was better for everyone that he did. It's a stupid idea and an entire feature length movie saying as much just shouldn't be taken seriously.
The acting was good, the casting was good, the technical gimmick of selectively coloring things was all right (hadn't we been colorizing films for several decades by this point?). But the arrogant premise was just too much.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
Now these are stupid kids
I suppose this could constitute mild spoilers, so please stop now if you are concerned.
I'm sorry. I didn't really like any of the kids that much in this movie and it makes it kind of hard to relate to them. "No, my problems are bigger than yours! Are not! My parents suck more than yours!" etc. I think the acting is really well played, I just don't want to watch two hours of high school drama.
Hey, kids, here's an idea: personal responsibility. I guess I'm editorializing more than reviewing. I'll cut to the chase.
Pros: Pretty well acted all around. Some good lines, as it were.
Cons: Annoying. Goes nowhere. Emotional outbursts get old, thanks. Kids aren't really any better off after than before, just ready to screw up their lives in a new way.
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
Boring, but not without its merits
The makers of this film must have watched 2001 a few too many times while they storyboarded.
"Nah, let's throw in some primitive computer graphics stuff, and some quiet footage of docking and undocking. It's all the rage, you know. And I think if there's one thing sci-fi needs more of, it's transcending. You can't have too much transcending these days." Still, through it all there is something there. Even if it's just getting to watch out favorite crewmembers outside the Enterprise in spacesuits. And it helps to establish the theme through the original cast films that the Enterprise is a character in itself, always growing and changing.
Le cinquième élément (1997)
Nice to look at, but too French
I really like the set design of this movie. It is much more colorful than Star Wars, for instance. The effects get the job done without being too distracting. Bruce Willis is cool. But, as a male, let me tell you the director's idea of a perfect woman is not my idea of a perfect woman. And before you decide that I'm just a pig and obviously her perfection was much deeper and who am I to be judging a woman by her appearance (which I am), let me point out how everybody in the movie, from military commanders to a monk of some bizarre religious sect, acknowledges how beautiful he thinks she is. Me... I thought she looked like a typical anorexic European model, but with unnaturally vivid hair.
-SPOILERS AHEAD-
Unfortunately, what will probably strike most people about the movie are the nauseatingly trite themes of love and pacifism. She can save the human race from annihilation, but, alas! she ponders, is there anything worth saving? You see, all we do is nuke each other, according to the Ken Burns series she watches on a spaceship. Oh, but fear not! Despite our affinity for brinkmanship, since she fell in love with Bruce Willis we're not so bad and she'll save humanity after all. It's good to know that love can still override the better judgment of a woman if the fate of the world is on the line.
Come to think of it, even though I praised the art direction, I remembered something about the look of the movie that disagreed with me: Chris Tucker. If you have seen the movie, you realized that the only thing more insufferable than Tucker's hair and clothing is his persona, which reaches new depths of cosmic annoyingness--annoyingness that would make you want to call up Jar Jar just to get away from such whiny, effeminate prattle.
The movie could have been really great. But the annoyingly French message will probably turn off anyone who pays attention. Let's say 5/10 because blue is always in fashion.
Sen to Chihiro no kamikakushi (2001)
Not terrible
*May be some spoilers ahead*
This was supposed to be the anime I could appreciate. Yet, once the DVD's turned off, it is still... just anime.
You've heard it before, and you'll hear it again: Why does all anime look the same? As lush and imaginative as the world of Spirited Away is, Chihiro et al still look like they could have come from any other Japanese animated movie. I'm starting to think it is a good thing Disney has the American market monopolized. At least Disney strives for variety from year to year. You may not like the consistently happy endings, or the ultra-family-friendly nature of the films, but visually, at least, the Mouse innovates. Compare the differences between Beauty and the Beast and Lilo and Stitch with those between... well, any two anime titles. Notice something? The difference between "good anime" and "bad anime" does not constitute stylistic variety.
Yes there are positive themes in the movie. Chihiro grows up. It's great that she learns a lot of good things: respect, discipline, true friendship, etc. But the character development is spotty at best. Whereas we get a good understanding of Chihiro, we learn very little about Haku, the boy she learns to love (in a semi-platonic way).
Two more gripes: Why do the main characters have to explain the plot as it unfolds via monologue? e.g. "He flew into that window up there. Maybe I can climb up and help him." (when no one else is present) And, even in a fantasy setting, shouldn't the characters struggle a little before accepting some things? e.g. "Oh he's a dragon." and "Call me Granny." "O.K., Granny."
Again, it's not a terrible movie. But it is still anime, little mouths, little noses, cute fuzzies and all. I give it a 6/10.
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Edit: I'd say it's grown on me by about an extra star over the years, but still isn't one I'd recommend to someone who wanted to watch anime. Even for Miyazaki, you're better off watching Howl's Moving Castle or some number of his older stuff.
To End All Wars (2001)
Uplifting
To End All Wars is a remarkably bold--almost brazen--film that deserves a wider distribution. As far as war movies go, it is much better than Thin Red Line, which tries to be thoughtful but only achieves a meaningless ambivalence. To End All Wars conveys its message in a clear yet profound way.
As a Christian film, it shines as the boldest offering I have ever seen. Whereas popular depictions of religion (Seventh Heaven, anyone?) might mention an unspecified god every now and then, this film uses unmistakable metaphors and symbolism that blur the line between analogy and reality. It is one thing to put a cross in a shot. It is another thing completely to depict someone making sacrifices for his friends.
Ultimately, To End All Wars makes no compromises, neither to those who think its rating does not match its message nor not to those who think it is too preachy. Some things need to be preached.
Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)
Classic Star Wars
(no consequential spoilers)
On what ground do (numerous and famous) detractors stand? This movie was as faulty but utterly lovable as the best of the original trilogy. And, by "best of the original trilogy," we all know I'm talking The Empire Strikes Back. And, thankfully, as many have pointed out, it makes Episode I better in hindsight.
Line delivery seems to be at the heart of the criticism. I personally found it to be on par with the best delivery in all the franchise. Maybe I'm a sucker for something, but I bought the love story and really wanted it to magically work out. I also laughed out loud at every joke I got. It was funny stuff.
What really makes the movie shine is the way it fits into the saga. It doesn't have to introduce everyone, and it doesn't yet have to wrap up all their stories, either. This is the middle child in the prequel trilogy, the one that gets to dabble in characterization and really throw the curveballs at you. As such, it packed an emotional wallop, one I was glad to take.
This is the universe we know and love. Sweet homecoming, you've been too long.
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Good or bad? Read my blurb and find out
Yep, that's right, in light of upcoming awards ceremony, I will have to make the obligatory Shrek reference. And that is only to say that I personally believe all Pixar films blow Shrek out of the water. That this is my favorite one yet is only icing on the cake.
I found MI to be irresistibly sweet. It wasn't as funny--no, make that hilarious--as Toy Story 2, but it was so much deeper that I didn't care at all. Watch this movie and try NOT to adore Boo, the little girl. I don't think it's humanly possible.
Shrek (2001)
Commendable, but not Pixar
I didn't see this movie until after it was released on DVD, and until that time, I heard from so many people how good it was. But it just didn't do much for me.
Technically, it seemed inconsistent. Even though Shrek and Donkey looked great, none of the "human" characters did. The plot was all right. The humor was hit and miss. But I still found myself not liking the character Shrek a whole lot at the end of the movie, and it's important you like the main character in a movie.
I suggest you watch all of the Pixar films first. They're all better--hands down. Even Bug's Life. And if you haven't seen the most recent, monster-laden offering, you're missing out on likely one of the sweetest movies ever.
What it all boils down to is, Shrek and Donkey just aren't Woody and Buzz.
Memento (2000)
Some dig it, some don't
I think this falls into the category of "good films I don't care much for." The acting was good, the unconventional plot was well-executed. But it just didn't do a whole lot for me. I think it was a little more work, mentally and emotionally, than I would have liked. It also seemed just a little gimmicky.
You might think it's wonderful. A lot of people do. I don't really.
The Princess Bride (1987)
I dare you to not like this movie
The real question we must ask ourselves here is, what rock have you been hiding under that you still haven't seen this movie? I don't think there is a more played rainy-day recess video at elementary schools nationwide. And that is really a commentary on how wonderful the movie is, because it is accessible to children and adults alike.
Do yourself a favor and actually LISTEN to all of the dialogue. The level of wit is beyond so many films that are strictly comedies, and yet we also have a delightful romance and fantasy/action/adventure.
Now, seriously, why haven't you seen this movie yet?
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Anchor of the saga
A movie viewer is treated to the full emotional spectrum with this masterpiece. Much more so than the other movies, it has an incredible cliff-hanger appeal. Lucas, in the Malten interviews, explained the nature of the "middle film" in a trilogy. This movie serves to take the protagonists and throw them into the most desperate situation imagineable. For this reason, this is the darkest movie (as of yet--look for Episode III to be the "Empire" of the entire saga).
What really grabs me about this movie is the music. Even more than A New Hope, John Williams used the character themes to their greatest effect. This film introduces one of the most infamous and beloved themes in all of film (or, dare I say it? popular music): Vader's Theme. From the tense prelude to those first three notes--BOM BOM BOM--the emotional impact is through the roof. The introduction of this theme is fitting, as Vader is finally realized in this film.
We also get a very boy-friendly dose of a love story in this movie. In fact, the relationship between Han and Leia is one of the most interesting in all of film. It's piratical swashbuckler meets strong willed, capable princess. Han solo is developed into the most loveably arrogant character possible. Near the end of the movie, Leia tells him, "I love you." Han's response and the circumstances surrounding this exchange define all that sets Star Wars apart from the rest of the pack.
I adore Star Wars. So far, this is the movie that gives the series it's push. This is when we learn how much we really want our heroes to triumph and what they are up against. Essentially, Empire is what ties the films together, masterfully elevating the series to the status of epic.
The Pistol: The Birth of a Legend (1991)
Especially good for basketball players
If you can find it, this movie is worth watching. It features superb acting and relatively good sports footage. But the most attractive thing about this movie is its family orientation. There is virtually nothing objectional in the movie, yet it doesn't suffer from a Disney-ish G-rated feeling. It seems like real life in a loving family environment. Of special note is the delicately handled relationship between Pete and his father.
Overall, this is a magnificent sports movie and a great any-movie. Worth renting or buying if the opportunity presents itself.
O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)
Charming and Masterful
"O Brother, Where Art Thou?" is a beautiful movie with vivid, endearing characters. The storyline is broken neatly into episodes, apparently much like its source material. I haven't read Homer, so other than a few obvious nods to the classic author (the cyclops, for instance) I missed many of the parallels I'm told are there. It's difficult to pinpoint what makes this such a magnificent movie--probably because there are so many details that add up. The first thing that sold me, like so many others, was the music. The album sales alone stand as a testament to the quality of the soundtrack (I realize album sales don't always equal good music, but here they do). It feels like the movie was made during the Great Depression. If you watch movies made during the time, they were all "feel good" flics. Several reviewers here have drawn the savy comparison between OBWAT and "It Happened One Night", and specifically between Clooney's and Gable's performances. There are so many things that make this movie worth seeing. My only complaint that sticks is that it could so easily have been made PG. As it stands, it is one of the most harmless PG-13 films in a long time, and I wish the filmmakers hadn't opted to put in the extra "dammits" to elevate the movie into the more profitable bracket. Even the famous siren scene seemed tasteful, and sweetly seductive rather than racy. My point? This movie has the potential to make you smile.
Contact (1997)
It was unusual...
My summary (above) details the most positive thing I have to say about the adaptation of Carl Sagan's book.
Every time someone complains about the treatment of the religious right wing in the movie, someone has to answer, "Well, that's how it would really happen."
Yes, well, I suppose that's how it might be if Godzilla really ransacked New York City, too. And that's how it would be if a superintelligent shade of the color blue stopped by for tea (a nod to a less pretentious work of science fiction). My point is, we're talking about astronomically improbable "what-ifs". If it were written in fire in the sky that someone was wrong about something, that person or those people might react a little strangely. What a comfort to know that none of this is likely to ever happen.
All the religious people in the film are either a) basically versions of Jodie Foster's character who say "I believe in God" or b) madmen. If these people really believed in absolute truths, they wouldn't feel threatened by the "machine" because they would be convinced it wouldn't work, anyway. It's not a life and death issue.
If you think science always gets the shaft in the science versus religion feud, you might like this movie. If you don't want to sit through anti-religious propaganda thinly veiled as a Close Encounters knock-off, rent something else.
The Goonies (1985)
Kids don't care about inconsistencies
I acknowledge everything that detracts from this movie. But it is still a good adventure film for kids (especially boys) or adults whose dreams have never really died.
The movie's merrit is that it appeals to the heart of a kid. Sean Astin, in the wishing well scene, is every young boy who keeps exploring in the woods after dusk. His mother wouldn't approve, but adventure calls to him and he must answer. Maybe he even owns a pocket knife that she doesn't know about, and out on his own he has the freedom to use it.
Maybe there are better movies for children. But if you don't see the significance of "The Goonies" then you probably don't have a clue as to what it's like to be a kid.
Roger & Me (1989)
Slanted like a cheap table
Does anyone really need to watch 90 minutes of the same thing to conclude: Roger Smith's decisions left Flint, Michigan in a precarious state? This is the kind of film that college professors show to their students to expose them to the "real world." There is nothing edifying or important about this film. A table of statistics in the corner of an economics book could tell you everything objective it contains. "Roger Smith eliminated a lot of jobs in Flint, Michigan." Now what's all this business with Smith at a country club and a Christmas dinner? It's about the most unabashedly slanted documentary I've seen in years. rating:4/10
Lost in Space (1998)
No, it really is THAT BAD
Lost in Space is absolutely asinine. The plot is terrible. Every theme the movie tries to convey is a miserable failure. Was I supposed to leave that movie and go hug my father? Please. It is almost as bad as the leftist environmental messages so obviously smeared across the screen in the beginning.
The characters are both horribly scripted and horribly acted out. The monkey thing, if it weren't so dang shiny, could have added a little flavor. The only redeeming feature is the occasional line delivered by everyone's favorite Friends star, though he is too blatantly sexual in regards to Heather Graham. Only attention-short kids will enjoy this movie, why not make it one their parents could show them in good conscience?
Visually, there are some well done space scenes. But then there are also some incredibly incongruous parts as well. In short, anything the humans actually touch looks bad.
If you want a movie with good sci fi action, but still has the weird effect, see Fifth Element. My rating is a generous two stars out of ten, which would have speedily gone down if I had to watch (and listen to) more of the credits than I did.
Titan A.E. (2000)
Incredibly aesthetic
What an amazing film. I'm not sure I have seen anything that looked so good on the big screen.
The human characters are rather bland. Korso, for instance, doesn't have an original line, and seems to be in hero mode with every line he speaks. Kale is interesting enough, though the love story isn't developed at all. It only has a start and an end. No one ever gives a satisfying explanation why the drej have it in for the humans, and even the drej themselves never say anything revealing about them as a species. The brain or king or whoever only issues simple commands. But this is all so very forgivable.
Graphically, the movie has no equal, animated or live, much like Star Wars when it came out. The blending of traditional and CG animation isn't seamless, but it doesn't matter. Only rarely does one particular scene look "off" such as a scene that takes place inside the Titan when the background is hand-painted rough looking. But there are so many other scenes and sequences that take your mind off the exceptions. Basically, from the destruction of the earth, the awe-factor kicks in.
To summarize, the film is just plain entertaining. Don't expect to become emotionally involved with the characters, but don't expect that to deter your enjoyment, either.
For an animated film, and a sci-fi, it gets a solid A.