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When I say "Eternal Sunshine..." is "Total Recall meets Lost in Translation"...I'm referring to "Translation" in a figurative rather than a literal sense. I don't mean to imply this movie deals with a foreign language and culture, though it's dizzying flashback pace may appear incomprehensible at times (not to mention, the world of human interaction/relationships,as we all know, could use a translator now and then). Carrey seems at home in this dramatic tour de force in a way that Schwarzenegger never could. It has that classic "independent movie" flavor...with character development and a compelling (if not confusing) story line. Let's just say, its no "Emperors' New Clothes" homage to the Coppola name...there is true substance in this reflective genre.

I stumbled onto this movie during the Palm Springs International Film Festival. When I noticed folks lined up outside the theatre an hour before the movie, I thought I'd join them. What a surprise! The haunting closeups and aerial views of Australia's outback serve to intensify the interactions of the characters. The music can, and does, appear overpowering at times, but along with an ocasionally inserted "painting", helps dramatize aborigine culture, a key to the film's intent. If you're tired of the usual american formulaic movie, but aren't into the hassle of reading subtitles, this may be for you.

Pinocchio is one of the movies featured at this years Palm Springs International Film Festival, which I attended last evening. Roberto Benigni's previous oscar winning efforts led me to believe this was a movie not to miss. Even early scenes in "Pinocchio" of Benigni climbing over the "puppet" audience are intentionally reminiscent of his academy award show appearance. Unfortunately, Benigni's decision to play himself as Pinocchio rather than an actual child only serves to destroy the essence of the original tale. The storyline is rambling and pointless, and choosing to dub the Italian with voices ranging from Regis Philbin to Queen Latifah for the "English" speaking audience is embarrassing, if not insulting. One redeeming feature: the magnificent cinematography and luscious scenery. But by and large, After "Life...is...(not that) Beautiful...