Videodrome - The First Season
Like a boy who likes to read and walks into a public library, I made a little vow to watch all the good movies at the DVD collection at library@esplanade.
In fact, I have started to fulfil this vow since the end of last year. Some of the movies I've seen so far:
Xi Yang Jing (Shadow Magic), Beaches, The Nutty Professor, The House of Mirth, Fried Green Tomatoes, The Apostle, Pollock, Teaching Mrs Tingle, Truly Madly Deeply, Grumpy Old Men, The Birds, Orange County, Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, *batteries not included, A Taste of Cherry, The Vanishing, Zhui Ai, Thirty Two Short Films About Glenn Gould, Galaxy Quest, M, Nosferatu, Babette's Feast, Baran, Love and Death on Long Island, Dick, La cage aux folles, Private Benjamin, Cactus Flower, Clockwise, Gandhi, For the Boys, Apt Pupil, Mother, Terms of Endearment, Central Station, Rat Race and Dancing at Lughnasa.
Read on for the reviews of my current loan.
Screening on Wednesday, June 16, 2004
100 Comments:
SWEET AND LOWDOWN
viewed on 16/6/04 (Wed)
Plot Summary: A comedic biopic focused on the life of a jazz guitarist Emmett Ray (Sean Penn). Ray was an irresponsible, free-spending, arrogant, obnoxious, alcohol-abusing, miserable human being, who was also arguably the best guitarist in the world. We follow Ray's life: bouts of getting drunk, his bizzare hobbies of shooting rats and watching passing trains, his dreams of fame and fortune, his strange obsession with the better-known guitarist Django Reinhardt, and of course, playing his beautiful music.
I am not a big fan of Woody Allen but slowly I have to admit that I cannot resist his charm. Partly I think is my growing love for jazz, which is a trademark in most of his soundtracks.
His homage to Ray is as neurotically funny as the subject itself and the director himself. Sean Penn got an Oscar nod and so did Samantha Morton for playing Ray's mute girlfriend. Both were nominated some years later in the same year, he for Mystic River and she for In America.
I can feel that Allen really worships Emmet Ray and that explains why the biopic feels very intimate. I will say this is one of Allen's best.
Sadly, when I want to know more about Emmet Ray from the net, I discover that he is in fact fictional. Strangely, I find it really hard to accept.
Rating: A-
Wednesday, June 16, 2004 7:52:00 AM
GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES
viewed on 16/6/04 (Tues)
Plot summary: Setsuko and Seita are brother and sister living in wartime Japan. After their mother is killed in an air raid they find a temporary home with relatives. Having quarreled with their aunt they leave the city and make their home in an abandoned shelter. They must depend on each other to somehow keep a roof over their heads and food in their stomachs. When everything is in short supply, they gradually succumb to hunger.
One colleague highly recommended this animated movie. She said she cried non-stop after the show. When I chanced upon this movie, what she said really haunted me and I was so eager to watch it. I am sucker for tearjerkers.
True enough, I cried too... The last few scenes are so moving that it is very depressing to watch. I will not recommend this on a moody day. I would like to say more but my heart is kind of heavy now...
Rating: A+
Wednesday, June 16, 2004 9:05:00 PM
WHAT LIES BENEATH
viewed on 17/6/04 (Thurs)
After the Scream trilogy and those Asian horror movies, it is hard for Hollywood to make something really scary. It is still a reasonably suspensful supernatural thriller. I expected a much cleverer plot. The ending drags a bit for too long. Well the target audience for this genre is the hardest to please. BTW, one of my secret ambitions is to make a scary movie when I am ever so easily scared. I believe there is a pyschological explanation for that.
Rating: B
Thursday, June 17, 2004 2:57:00 AM
THE RED VIOLIN
viewed on 18/6/04 (Fri)
Ok, this is not part of the DVD collection at library@esplanade. It has a scene of nudity. A friend lent it to me, thinking I may like it. Indeed. I love it...
It is an epic of a violin. Its life story is very compelling. It may take patience to view the long film but the rewards are almost breath-taking. The soundtrack is part of it. It won an Oscar and all these while, I taught it was nominated for best cinematography.
There are many unexpected twists, especially towards the end of the film, including an explanation why the violin is red in the first place.
Rating: A
Friday, June 18, 2004 1:25:00 AM
Hmm? You haven't seen this movie before in cinema meh?
Friday, June 18, 2004 1:45:00 AM
THE SUN HAS EARS
viewed on 18/6/04 (Fri)
The film won two prestigious awards at Berlin Film Fest in '96, including a Silver Bear for Yim Ho, the director. Talking about Yim Ho, I remembered I saw the last few scenes of his Homecoming aka Ye Che (Night Car). Though just a few minutes of it, it is very hauntingly tragic to me. I hope one day I can catch the entirety.
Back to this movie. It is nothing great and in my opinion, one of his weaker movies compared to Kitchen and The Day the Sun Turned Cold. Basically a feminist movie about this peasant woman who is not afraid to walk out of her two disappointing lovers, killing one of them in the name of justice.
Rating: C-
Saturday, June 19, 2004 12:18:00 AM
GATTACA
viewed on 19/6/04 (Sat)
I was not keen to watch this movie when it was screened here. No big stars, unknown director (Andrew Niccol) and a sci-fi thriller? I just don't have a good feeling about it. It was when Simone, the director's following effort, was reviewed that this film was mentioned and that this movie was much superior. That aroused my interest...
What an irony! Don't label something so fast without letting it prove itself - that's exactly the message in this movie.
The movie impressed me from the start. Clever lines. Clever plot twists. A clever story idea (read up the trivia too!) and a cleverer execution of a thriller. In lesser hands, it would be made into another run-of-the-mill fast-paced actioner. But Andrew chooses to tell the story in a way it will provoke our thoughts. In one deleted scene (only in the DVD), it shows a series of great people (JFK, Einstein, Abraham Lincoln etc) with 'defects'. Just imagine, if a system like the one in the movie was adopted earlier, they would be classified as 'In-valids' and deemed 'underclass'.
Rating: A-
Sunday, June 20, 2004 12:01:00 AM
This was the film that propelled British actor Jude Law to stardom.
Sunday, June 20, 2004 2:17:00 AM
BRASSED OFF
viewed on 21/6/04 (Mon)
Mark Herman's earlier work is Little Voice and this one is another critics' darling. The same old feel-good genre which can hardly go wrong. Everyone needs affirmation that life is not as tough as we think and human spirit will pull us through. We will buy and most certainly I will, IF this kind of movies will spare us the big speeches, the standing ovation, the coming-of-age, twisted sad faces etc. In short, cut the schmaltzy crap.
I think Brassed Off get away with alot of bashing just because the characters speak with a heavy accent and the story's backdrop is a very idyllic small town.
Rating: C-
Monday, June 21, 2004 12:29:00 PM
EDUCATING RITA
viewed on 21/6/04 (Mon)
Educating Rita's script and two leads were making rounds at the Oscars, Golden Globes and BAFTA back in 1984. It is not my intention to watch Brassed Off and Educating Rita back-to-back. Later I realised that both belong to the feel-good genre. Both aim to be uplifting, inspiring and witty. While Brassed Off failed miserably, Education Rita made it.
Before Billy Elliot and Calendar Girls, Julie Walters was already very good in her film debut. She plays a working-class housewife who 'want to find meself' in an open university, learning literary criticism under Michael Caine's Dr. Frank. One of her funny lines, "Howards End? It sounds filthy." There is also another scene when Rita says she wants to give something back to her teacher for giving so much, proceeds to take off her coat, says "This is going to take ten years off you." and then she walks over to ... cut his hair. Rita was a hairdresser earlier in the film. BTW, their relationship is solely platonic. They can easily fall in love and then into bed, both being in broken marriages. But no, they will go that low and be mediocre.
There are some subtle opinions about what an education really means and what does it mean to find oneself in one. While watching, I am always afraid that the movie will wander into schmaltz-ville but it never. If Mark Herman is to direct this ... (*long sigh*)
Rating: B+
Monday, June 21, 2004 1:01:00 PM
BOB ROBERTS
viewed on 21/6/04 (Mon)
The film is shot like a documentary. If you don't have any prior knowledge of the film, you will actually believe it. But then again casting actors as newscasters will give it away. Trivia says that alot of actor-friends of Robbins want to be 'play' newscasters.
I don't really appreciate the film like I didn't enjoy Blair Witch Project. How can someone film a subject so relentlessly and tirelessly for so long? It takes away alot of credibility. Why not tell the story straight? But then again there will not be much fun. I like the film eventually when it reveals slowly and shockingly the ugly 'games' played in politics, much like the one pulled off by Taiwan's Chen Shuibian.
What Robbins made was not something very great but I just like it when a relatively big star is not afraid to experiment with films.
What struck me most was not to see a younger Tim Robbins (he didn't age much since 1992) but a younger ... Jack Black! Looked more clean-cut but as funny.
Rating: B+
Monday, June 21, 2004 9:55:00 PM
PEE-WEE'S BIG ADVENTURE
viewed on 22/6/04 (Tues)
Into the first five minutes, I feel sick watching it. This Pee-Wee is unimaginably obnoxious! It is like Alan Cumming (another obnoxious actor) imitating Mr Bean. I bet Rowan borrows ideas from P.W. and even he did a better job as a comedian. It has DUMB written all over it.
This is Tim Burton's 1st film. THE Tim Burton. I didn't believe that the film can really bad. It is like a movie Ed Wood would make. Maybe there is a payoff and then I will let out a sigh of relief and say, "Well, I must be so silly to doubt Tim Burton."
Sadly, I have declared this as one of my worst film ever. There are some deleted scenes. You mean this movie actually went through some editing! I checked rottentomatoes.com and ... 100% ... fresh?! I read the comments posted by other viewers. They love it! What happened to these people?!
I have to say it again, Pee Wee is the most obnoxious character I have seen seen and that is an understatement.
For a film lover, there is no better way to spoil your day.
Rating: F
Tuesday, June 22, 2004 9:57:00 PM
I haven't seen this movie, but I think Alan Cumming is an interesting actor. I don't find him obnoxious, just very quirky. Loved him in "Titus" :)
Wednesday, June 23, 2004 2:35:00 AM
BROADWAY DANNY ROSE
viewed on 22/6/04 (Tues)
I think I can always rely on Woody Allen for some good laughs. This is certainly not one his best works but still slightly enjoyable. The lines are occasionally funny so for all Woody Allen fans, they get what they have expected. Oscars must have really liked Woody alot back then. For a lesser accomplished film, he was nominated for directing and writing.
The plot can be easily summed up as 'the day when everything went wrong for Danny Rose'. Some of the funny parts are over-the-top but for one particular scene, I was laughing out loud. One mobster fires at Woody and Mia Forrow but instead hits a helium tank and they all start talking like chipmunks.
Rating: C+
Wednesday, June 23, 2004 3:44:00 AM
THE ROOKIE
viewed on 23/6/04 (Thurs)
Heard a couple of good reviews about this film which I passed when it was showing in the cinemas. Sports movies are hardly my cup of tea.
As I was watching, the good feeling didn't come up soon, even after half-time. I was thinking, "Gosh! It is so smooth-sailing." I was waiting for a big emotional meltdown or some adversities to knock our hero out. Hardly and I am beginning to feel bored. Yeah right, if only all successes are that easy.
Now, included among the special features is a mini-documentary about the real guy. In real life, he is this simple down-to-earth guy who is grateful for that short-lived fortunes and yet he is more than willing to let it all go when age finally catches up with him. The latter was not shown in the film.
Well, maybe as I am waiting for the film to live up to the expectation of 'an inspiring sports movie', I should also realise that a simple success story should just be told simply. In fact, I got a feeling that by making a movie out of him is like giving the extra credits and recognition he didn't expect in the first place.
Rating: B
Wednesday, June 23, 2004 3:59:00 AM
THE CASTLE
viewed on 23/6/04 (Wed)
Missed the movie when it was screened here in '97. It was in the cinemas for only 1 week. I remember it was showing only at Lido. Well, after 7 years...
"This year's Full Monty!", "You can't stop laughing!","Uproarious" etc. These are the quotes on the cover of DVD. I was holding my belly and getting ready to laugh real hard. Nope, that didn't come soon. The narration was like going on and on and on. The family in the movie was too good to be true. Too loving and too encouraging. It appears more like an overly-optimistic clan promoting family values too aggressively for the government. I'm not a bitter old man but if this lovey-doveyness is to go on, ... where's the movie?
The family faces a crisis. They have to move out to make way for an expansion of an airport. They refuse but this is going against the big corporation. Principles. A man's home is his castle. Not that I didn't know the main plot but I can see where this movie is heading to. The usual one-man-versus-the-big-bad-corporation movie. Rousing court scenes, the swelling music upon victory, the hoorays, the we-finally-made-it teary eyes etc
Nope, not the Hollywood way. This is an Aussie film. Everything doesn't seem to go overboard and that got me sit up. Yes, the ending is no surprise to all. By then, I was looking for excuses for that babbling narration and the 'disgustingly' loving family. The narration brings me closer to the story and what's wrong with families that are too perfect. Hee...
A simple story with simple characters. It is not uproariously funny but just a small sweet movie about keeping the family together.
Also, appearing as as the son-in-law is pre-The-Hulk Eric Bana looking all beefy and goofy. Mind you, his following movie, Chopper, made him an AFI's Best Actor. Eat that Brad Pitt.
Rating: B+
Wednesday, June 23, 2004 9:22:00 PM
OSMOSIS JONES
viewed on 23/6/04 (Wed)
This is a great educational movie on your body and bad eating habits. All done in the good old fashion of a buddy cop movie. Imagine an ailing body is a badly-run city. The cells are the city people, the veins are the expressways, the brain is the city hall etc I cannot even begin to describe how imaginative the animation is. Oh it is semi-animation 'cos the body belongs to Bill Murray and the story goes beyond his body to show how Bill's daughter try to talk him out of eating junk. No, I didn' forget the word 'food'.
Back to the 'insides', yup, it has all the elements of a buddy cop movie. That's why many may dismiss as nothing special; it doesn't help that the film is directed by that pair of brothers who give us There's Something About Mary.
They don't know what they are missing. I think the brothers want to do something that is not just funny but actually means something, starting from this movie. I love Shallow Hal and I find Stuck On You heartwarming. This one too, and, take it from me, these brothers know what is saccharinity and they won't give us any.
The movie is not only imaginative but very witty and funny. There is a statue of a sperm in the 'City Hall' and the words, "The Founder". The arrival hall is the stomach, a virus is like an illegal immigrant, a cold pill is like a welcome VIP etc. Here I go again! And did I begin to talk about the very clever lines? A catharsis of pure wit!
I don't really fancy Chris Rock but his voice is boyishly cute here. Oh, songbird Brandy is in too!
It's just too bad that that year Oscar doesn't have Best Animation.... (long sigh)
Rating: A
Thursday, June 24, 2004 12:21:00 AM
THE CURSE OF THE JADE SCORPION
viewed on 24/6/04 (Thurs)
For a Woody Allen film, this one is a bit long and a tad trying to be crowd-pleasing. It is very entertaining, as usual, and the witty wordplay is even more 'aggressive' than those in other Woody Allen films. The film has the elements of a thriller, comedy and love story, all rolled into one nicely.
Sadly, this movie also marks the beginning of Woody Allen's downslide to oblivion.
Rating: B+
Thursday, June 24, 2004 2:51:00 AM
THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE
viewed on 24/6/04 (Thurs)
When I was reading a review of The Day After Tomorrow, this movie was mentioned. And that was not the same time, the movie was brought up. A grand-daddy of disaster movies?
Certainly is! The pace is taut, the sets are grand, the sequences are nail-biting. Mind you, this film is made in 1972! If this film is released now, I bet it will still satisfy the contemporary audience.
Now while many disaster movies put the SFX to good use to create awe-inspiring sights, this movie puts the rich drama and strong characters before the disaster. It brings out the goodness and strength in those who survived. The lines are believable and there are one-liners that will hit you before the dialogues gets all predictably preachy.
Now that I mention 'preachy', Gene Hackman plays a tough-talking reverend who is the hero in the story. Now, normally we will keep the hero till the very end of the movie. Why? 'Cos all heroes all big stars and they are expensive. Also, killing the hero is going to make audience very upset, you know? Nope, not in this one. He died just before the survivors are rescued. Killing off the leading man is brave but what is braver is his irreverent 'speech' before he died. But the underlying message is we pray when things go wrong and put all our hopes in our faith when in actual fact we can do something to help ourselves. "... that part of God within you will be fighting with you all the way," said the reverend in an earlier scene.
Oh, Naked Gun's Leslie Nielsen has a very brief 'serious' appearance as the boat's dashing assertive captain.
Rating: A-
Thursday, June 24, 2004 11:06:00 AM
"The Poseidon Adventure" and "The Towering Infero" (with Paul Newman, I think) are two of my mom's favorite disaster movies. I used to watch them when I was a kid, as well.
Thursday, June 24, 2004 12:56:00 PM
ARTHUR
viewed on 25/6/04 (Fri)
There's a reason why the Oscar-winning theme song appears to be bigger than the movie itself. While the song is memorable, the comedy is serviceable. I bet Pretty Woman is inspired by this movie.
Much like the jokes cracked by Dudley Moore's Arthur, the comedy has an off-key humour, which at its best funny and at its worst, like 'huh?'.
Rating: C+
Saturday, June 26, 2004 4:50:00 PM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Saturday, June 26, 2004 5:16:00 PM
CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF
viewed on 26/6/04 (Sat)
I have to admit besides being an Oscar multiple-nominee, I borrowed this to see two of cinema's all-time beautiful actors - Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman. They were not just pretty-looking idols. They are fine actors too, both nominated for acting in 1959.
The story takes place in one big house and in one night. The lines and acting though stagey (being adapted from a play) but still very engaging. And here, I thought old classics are very serious and dull and 'outdated'. The drama of a broken rich family is still as relevant and so is the underlying homoeroticism. It is very interesting to see back in the conservative era how they implied the sexual orientation of Paul's character and then tried to explain it all as merely emotional immaturity.
Rating: B+
Saturday, June 26, 2004 5:17:00 PM
GOOD MORNING, VIETNAM
viewed on 26/6/04 (Sat)
All I wanted was to have a few good laughs from this comedy. Instead I get more out of it. Now, calling this a comedy will be understating it. It has anti-war messages, not with scenes of dead bodies and explosions, but subtly conveyed in Robin Williams' performance and his humour. I may be naive but I believe Robin is playing himself, a humourous chap with a heart of gold. There is a scene his jeep was stuck in a jam together with trucks of GIs. There and then, he, upon request, puts up a stand-up comedy and in his eyes rolling are tears. Now this is not a close-up... I think he is happy not because the soldiers' applause affirm his popularity and hence 'exacting revenge' on the conservative radio station which booted him. But I think because he is wise to know that humour cheers up the soldiers better than words of encouragement or moving big talk. Now, that kind of subtle performance deserves an Oscar too, not necessarily a serious one.
The movie reminds me of how humour is so sparse at workplaces. No boss really wants to take a jokey worker seriously, unless you are a straight-faced no-nonsense worker, in short the nerdy killjoys. They may play the tune of injecting play in your work but they actually mean it as a joke.
The movie can go in all the 'right' directions to be a mushy comedy which yearns to be taken seriously. There are scenes of farewell, arguement between friends with different political views, welcoming back a beloved DJ etc but never once you feel nauseous because of a well-balanced light humour. There is a sequence of Louis Armstrong's What a Wonderful World playing to shots of a very chaotic Vietnam. I like that very much. Sad, ironical but never insensitive.
Now, I realise from imdb's trivia that Robin's character Adrian Cronauer is based on a real person and he did not do half the things mentioned in the movie that would surely have him court-martialled. Yes, this is taking too much liberty of the facts but hey, I don't mind a bit if that would be a better story.
Rating: A-
Saturday, June 26, 2004 10:13:00 PM
GUESS WHO'S COMING TO DINNER
viewed on 27/6/04 (Sun)
Watching old movies is like reading literature. Old they may be but they are truly food for thought. Not that I don't think of it all this time but it never really strike me that hard.
I just have to admire the way they write stories which is nothing like now. It begins in an afternoon and ends before the dinner is served. The running length is 108 min and you may think it is going to be hell boring but no, every minute of it is crucial to telling the story.
The gist of the story is basically whether the girl's parents are to approve her marriage with a black man. To approve or not approve? That is the question, a very hard one indeed as it takes a few more characters and many thought-provoking dialogue to come to a decision. Their small family crisis reflects the opinions of the society on interracial marriages.
The performances are pitch-perfect. Everyone is equally good! Four of the cast members were actually nominated at the Oscars. The film receives 10 Oscar nods. Pretty impressive, huh, for a movie about what happened before dinner. :)
It is not what the tagline of the film suggests; that it's a just love story. I like this kind of movie when a seemingly insignificant situation can bring up so many significant issues.
Rating: A-
Sunday, June 27, 2004 3:01:00 AM
A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE
viewed on 27/6/04 (Sun)
I remember back in 1995, when I was still in the army, they screened this director's version in the cinemas for only one week. Too bad when I returned from reservist training in Taiwan, it was taken off the screens. I was thinking what a pity that I couldn't see it.
Now that I have seen it, I feel relieved. Being very draggy and stagey, I would not be able to sit still in my seat. The actors mumble very fast most of the times, esp Vivien Leigh. It would be impossible to catch the dialogue without the subtitles.
Before Marlon Brandon became a whale, gee, he was so hunky and handsome back in 1951. He was the '50s' Brad Pitt. There is some kind of raw eroticism in him. There is a reason why they put him on the cover of DVD even though he is not really the main star.
The story is very morbid; there are hints of casual sex, prostitution and even incest. The director's version restores some of the scenes deemed unfit back then.
I fear classics because they can be too serious and dull. Sadly, this movie falls in that category.
Rating: B-
Sunday, June 27, 2004 9:26:00 PM
THE CREW
viewed on 29/6/04 (Tues)
Now I think I read from somewhere that this movie is good but I believe I got it mixed up with another similar title.
Anyway, not bad if I am not asking too much from a comedy, although there are some sparkles of humour which, if exploited, could be made into a better one. Like the comment on the DVD cover goes, "It's Goodfellas meet The Grumpy Old Men." and you pretty much get the idea of the movie.
Rating: B-
Tuesday, June 29, 2004 12:19:00 AM
Got mixed up with "The Wrecking Crew"?
Tuesday, June 29, 2004 2:40:00 AM
THE DISH
viewed on 30/6/04 (Wed)
I remember only vaguely a very good rating of this film in Entertainment Weekly. Never came to Singapore so just rent it to see what it has to offer.
Somehow I always picture this film as comedy and if it is one, it fails miserably. Well, but ... for a feel-good 'semi-serious' movie, it fulfills its task. Nothing really spectacular or funny happens in the movie, yes, some sparks of comedy and excitement here and there, but pretty much ... uneventful?
Then comes the saving grace of the last few scenes. It turns out to be rather inspiring. It will make a good compliment to Apollo 13.
Rating: B
Wednesday, June 30, 2004 11:12:00 PM
What is it about?
Thursday, July 01, 2004 5:12:00 AM
IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT
viewed on 1/7/04 (Thurs)
Watching this 1967 movie reminds of Mystic River. It is a whodunit but well-acted and comes with a meaningful takeaway. I would think Mystic River is a better movie. In The Heat of the Night is very engaging and has surprises all the way to the end. But the ending is less than satisfying. The motive of the murder doesn't connect to the main theme, which is racism.
Being so charismatic, Sidney Poitier strangely didn't get an Oscar nomination but his white partner, Rod Steiger, won an Oscar. Prejudice? That'll ironical. Also another nominee Guess Who's Coming To Dinner was in the running for Best Picture. That's a better movie about racism but it lost to this one.
Rating: B
Thursday, July 01, 2004 11:43:00 PM
SERENDIPITY
viewed on 3/7/04 (Sat)
I gave this movie a miss. Why? Romantic comedy that builds its plot on beautiful coincidences. A copycat of Sleepless in Seattle? Sell that to a romantic die-hard fan.
When later I knew that the always very critical Entertainment Weekly gave this movie an A grade, ... I was intrigued.
I watched this in one lazy afternoon and it was drizzling. Good time for some sweet romance. Still, I would love to slam down any mushy romance anytime. But I was charmed... so deeply charmed, even though it has all the trappings of Sleepless in Seattle. The costars will not meet again until the end of the show. The madness in pursuing a stranger. The coincidences which will never happen in real life ... now, wait, this movie actually made me believe that such things may happen among us.
It is all in the destiny. You hear that from your married friends, lots more in those hopeless romance books, songs, movies etc. But after watching this, I actually buy this idea. Am I in love too? ... (Shucks, did I say that aloud?)
There is one scene I choked on my tears. John Cusack's Jon opens a book and finds the name and number he has been looking for for years. They belong to Beckinsale's Sara. You see, they meet years ago and that is the only clue he can find her back. But it is already the eve of his wedding day. Ya right, what a twist. I see that coming but hey I actually almost cried. Jon takes a long hard look at the name and number, closes the book back and his red eyes could jolly well mirror mine. You expect him to yell and jump for joy but he just cries at the irony of it all.
Well, I shall not dismiss crazy things people do when in love 'cos destiny may just play a nasty trick on me, then gives me a silly smile and a wink.
Rating: A-
Saturday, July 03, 2004 4:50:00 PM
So, how does it feel to be in love? Hee hee :P
Saturday, July 03, 2004 7:50:00 PM
BLOODY SUNDAY
viewed on 3/7/04 (Sat)
Plot summary (taken from us.imdb.com): Documentary-style drama showing the events that lead up to the tragic incident on January 30, 1972 in the Northern Ireland town of Derry when a protest march led by civil rights activist Ivan Cooper was fired upon by British troops, killing 13 protesters and wounding 14 more.
I feel guilty. I was not really moved while watching this important film. In the making-of documentary, the producer said he hoped the recount would bring a reconciliation to the British and Irish people. The movie is a collaboration of British and Irish filmmakers and it is indeed a labour of peace-making.
Why am I not moved? Maybe I should watch the documentary about the events first. It will give me some ideas to what I would be watching. The film is kind of meant for people who has some knowledge of Bloody Sunday. Or maybe the absolute absence of soundtrack makes the viewing experience too dull. The film breaks free of many other basic film-making techniques to give the viewers a I-am-really-there documentary feel. To me, it feels like a long reel of news footage.
Still, I really hope to appreciate this very solemn movie a bit more but ...
Rating: B
Saturday, July 03, 2004 10:03:00 PM
THREE AMIGOS
viewed on 3/7/04 (Sat)
Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Martin Short in a comedy! That sure is three times the fun and laughter. The comedy borrows ideas from Seven Samurai (which I would very much like to see) but I won't mind 'cos it is downright funny just to see the three comedians utter those corny hilarious one-liners. My favourite scene is the one with the singing bush.
Rating: B
Sunday, July 04, 2004 3:06:00 AM
COOL HAND LUKE
viewed on 4/7/04 (Sun)
This is something which I forget to add in my comments for Serendipity. I didn't know that Cool Hand Luke will be mentioned in that movie so you can imagine my surprise. Maybe there is really destiny.
Ok. Heard so much about the film and just need to see it for myself. First thing first, is it okay to say I have a crush on Paul Newman? Gee ... you wanna talk about being cool, these legendary film actors do it better, without swearing loud and chain-smoking.
Basically, about a man's admirable determination not to conform to anything. Describing the movie like this is not enough. The movie may be about nothing more than Paul Newman's Luke's attempts to escape but the closing scene sums up best. It is about a man's lonesome tired struggle to fight against his fate and maybe even God.
Rating: B
Sunday, July 04, 2004 3:17:00 AM
SEVEN SAMURAI
viewed on 4/7/04 (Sun)
I survived the longest film of my life. 3.5 hours long! I wanted to watch this 1954 epic when watching Three Amigos which borrows ideas from this classic. It also inspired many movies, including A Bug's Life.
I had second thoughts when I saw the running length but this is such a must-see classic. The note on the DVD promises a three-hour of action and entertainment. Now recalling the movie, it is indeed entertaining; it has battle scenes comparable to today's standard, comic relief, a love story but above all, a great story about honour, hope, redemption and goodwill. And all these while, I thought Akira's movies are very arty-farty. This maestro already knew how to blend art and entertainment half a century ago.
Rating: A-
Sunday, July 04, 2004 10:14:00 PM
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
viewed on 5/7/04 (Mon)
I am surprised so much of the trial of a wronged black man is mentioned together with the film when it is about a third of the story. Also the movie is always seen as Gregory Peck's movie when it actually belongs to the two children of his Atticus Finch. And. I always see this movie as just another condemning racism when it is much more than that. No wonder it is a secondary school literature text and the trailer recommended the film to children. It is all about the coming-of-age of two children, the trial is part of it but there is also a Bogeyman nicknamed Boo (played by a very young Robert Duvall), a summer friend and a very close shave with murder. During the trial, there are even subtle mentions of incest rape and a white girl's repressed sexual urge.
I never really know how wrongly the film is being promoted these years until I see the making-of documentary which really explains the actual intentions of the book and film. At one and a half hour long (oh gosh, if add on to the film length, it is like watching Seven Samurai again), it not only interviews the key actors but also the residents of the author's hometown. With all respect, it is boring. The book is about the author's childhood but thankfully the movie streamlined into a elegantly-paced and sublimely acted children movie worth recommending to all young adults who are about to see the end of their innocence and the cruel dangers in adulthood.
Rating: A-
Monday, July 05, 2004 11:34:00 AM
BLAZING SADDLES
viewed on 6/7/04 (Tues)
And I think Stephen Chow and Wang Jing invented wu li tao. Mel Brooks did it back in 1974. Trashy fun? Hardly. I think way back it must be really uptight for everyone so they welcomed something so lighthearted and hailed it as revoluntionary. They honoured the film with three Oscar noms (!) including one for acting (!!) There is even going to be a 30th anniversay edition DVD and I thought I borrowed a true classic.
Rating: D
Tuesday, July 06, 2004 8:50:00 PM
THE FAMILY MAN
viewed on 8/7/04 (Thurs)
A good Christmas movie, not really a compliment but a recommendation. The story is like Scrooge meets Back to the Future. Maybe I am just tired but this movie tries hard but fails to really impress me. I cannot really tell what's really wrong. There are moments that are really nice. Tea and Nic fighting over a chocolate cake. He telling her what she will be missing if she leaves him, it is like a fortune teller telling her a happy life she will forfeit. The director in the making-of keeps saying, "I gotta do this... It is the best script I ever read ... Something in me tells me I am born to do this ..." Ok, corny but sincere so I cannot be too harsh on it. That kind of round up how I feel about the film too.
Rating: B-
Thursday, July 08, 2004 12:14:00 AM
HOW TO MARRY A MILLIONAIRE
viewed on 9/7/04 (Fri)
Truth is I want to see the lengendary Marilyn Monroe. Truth is I would say she is cute rather than sexy. She plays a model who is as blind as a bat yet foolishly thinks that all men don't like girls with glasses. She reads a book upside down, walks into wall and she even has to ask her girlfriends how her date looks like. She may not have a meaty role but she is sure the funniest.
The story is predictable as a love comedy. Three girls want to marry a rich men but eventually cannot defy their hearts and marry men who touch them. Turns out one of them is so filthy rich that the three girls faint at the sight of his bundle of big notes.
I think love comedies like this one have become extinct. Unlike many contemporary love comedies which are fast-paced, the old classics do it with much elegance and very innocently sweet humour.
Rating: B
Friday, July 09, 2004 8:10:00 PM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Sunday, July 11, 2004 10:57:00 PM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Monday, July 12, 2004 11:19:00 PM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Monday, July 12, 2004 11:21:00 PM
SOAPDISH
viewed on 12/7/04 (Mon)
"It is a soap opera about a soap opera within a soap opera," one of the actors said in the featurette. (I think it wants to be a satire) Now isn't it about time to make fun of those ever so corny daytime TV serial like Days of Our Lives? I think they are more like the mildest kind of soft-porn. This satire will work out well if it is more wicked and smarter. I hope there is a remake by a more capable director like Woody Allen and maybe star Bette Midler. Now Bette Midler in a Woody Allen movie. Can someone propose that?
BTW the cast consists of 3 Oscar winners and 2 Oscar nominees. Still they can't save the show. Now that is soap opera.
Rating: C
Monday, July 12, 2004 11:22:00 PM
THE PINK PANTHER
viewed on 11/7/04 (Sun)
The only thing memorable about this movie is the Oscar-winning theme back in 1963. Now being made so long is no excuse for this lame comedy and even lamer sight gags of Peter Sellers. He is that moustached detective in the Pink Panther cartoon. Even the pink feline is more interesting to watch.
Rating: D
Monday, July 12, 2004 11:30:00 PM
GOOD MEN GOOD WOMEN
viewed on 17/7/04 (Sat)
Hou Hsiao-hsien is the godfather of Taiwan movies. To slam his work is like talking bad about your father. His films usually mark important chapters in the history of Taiwan. He is patriotic in a very sublime way. His movies are also beautifully filmed. Every frame seems effortlessly made but the cinematography is first rate.
The chameleon-like role of Annie Shizuka Inoh (aka Yi Neng Jing) is a very challenging. She plays a modern-day actress, the important political victim Chiang Bi-Yu, a bar hostess etc. She speaks Japanese, Hokkien, Mandarin fluently. She shows great depth of acting, making me admire this once-chubby act-cute singer has matured so much.
All things fall in place well except the pace is so glacial that I am damn glad I did not have to struggle to stay awake in the cinemas when it was shown at the Singapore International Film Festival.
I have a friend, who is crazy over Taiwanese movies, once told me that he will never spend money again on movies made by those well-known arty filmmakers. It can be so downright boring, with all respect.
I agree and, with all respect too, please be considerate to your audience and stop playing the arty-farty high-minded maestro. Think Ang Lee ok?
Rating: D
Saturday, July 17, 2004 9:55:00 PM
ANNIE HALL
viewed on 18/7/04 (Sun)
This Woody Allen comedy beat Star Wars to the Best Picture in 1977. It is very funny all right but I have read most of its most memorable quotes that it kind of didn't make me laugh anymore. The story is also a tad predictable after seeing many of his previous films.
I didn't reckon this is the best film by Woody Allen but I bet back then the wall-to-wall self-depreciating humour was refreshing for a change. I can imagine the non-stop laughter in the theatres. It was 1977 and I bet this comedy was deemed revolutionary.
Though this is not Woody's best film but I really admire that he can deliver one funny line after another without being annoying. He sure makes me willingly to listen hard when a nerd is telling a joke.
Rating: B
Sunday, July 18, 2004 9:42:00 PM
BONNIE AND CLYDE
viewed on 18/7/04 (Sun)
They say Natural Born Killers is inspired by this 1967 movie. It does throw up a few gutsy surprises, considered made so long ago. Faye Dunaway walks around in the room with her upper back all bare. There is a scene suggesting oral sex. The final scene is rather painful to watch as Bonnie and Clyde are pigeonholed with, what the production notes state, 1,000 bullets.
The film is not really that great. More like a shoot-'em-up made for mass audience. There is not enough depth to the characters and story. Natural Born Killers does a better job in exploring the psyche of outlaws.
Sorry but I always marvel at how good the leading men and women look in these classics. Faye Dunaway is stunningly beautiful and she looked alot like Nicole Kidman. While Warren looked like Marlon Brandon and I am not surprised he drew inspiration from him.
They were so good-looking and so good as actors, I keep thinking contemporary actors like Nicole Kidman, Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Halle Berry etc will jolly 'live on' as screen legends and forever 'immortalised' in DVDs.
Rating: B
Sunday, July 18, 2004 10:09:00 PM
Love in a Fallen City
viewed on 20/7/04 (Tues)
I like Ann Hui's Boat People. Shocking and deeply moving. I like her Swordsman (aka Xiao Ao Jiang Hu). Entertaining. I like her My American Grandson. Watched it many years and deeply touched by the story between an Americanised grandson and his very old-fashioned grandpa. I like Song of Exile. Maggie is great and Lu Xiaofen is even better. A daughter coming to terms with the sacrifices made by her much-hated mum.
So when I chanced upon this title, I grabbed it fast. I was very confident that this will prove to me that before that pretentious Ordinary Heroes, Eighteen Spring etc, Ann Hui was once upon a time a great director.
Ooopsss.. the streak of bad movies could have started with this one already.
I think the novel which the film is based on is badly represented. The novel is written by Eileen Chang and I think it strives to tell a love story as ill-fated as a war torn Shanghai which is the story background towards the end.
We see alot of Cora Miao and Chow Yun Fat whispering sweet nothings. For too long and too much. It feels like the longest foreplay ever.
I feel sad for Eileen Chang. What a waster of a good title - Qing Cheng Zhi Lian. Sounds powerful only. Sigh
Thursday, July 22, 2004 10:33:00 PM
RASHOMON
viewed on 22/7/04 (Thurs)
After that nearly four hours of Seven Samurai, I am all ready to watch this one at ... 88 minutes! And I always thought Akira's movies are lengthy.
While watching this 1950 movie, I remember those days as a stage actor. The film is very stagey and if ever there is an effort of bringing the film on stage, there is hardly anything will change in what we see on the screen.
But I like the dialogue. Now there is a thing about dialogue in some stage plays portraying similar emotions in the film. It tends to focus too much on the dramatic effect. Think Qiong Yao and you will know what I mean. Here the dialogue sounds like it but it is simple and easily brings out the emotions of the characters.
Now many people will know that this movie is basically about accounts of three parties involved in an abduction and possibly a rape. Their accounts don't tally at all and in fact to make matters complicated, there is actually a fourth account.
Now I am just amazed that a simple setting with three characters, a few props like a dagger, two swords and a rope can tell a story of four different variations.
In the end, it is rather pointless to debate who is telling the truth and who is not. The coda suggests that there is no whole truth and whole lie. We are made up of shades of them.
It also goes on to mull over a bigger thought - men will choose dishonesty, sometimes even to oneself, over faith in mankind. Still, the finale ends on a hopeful note.
Some movies are made to last forever. I think Akira's movies have this impact on many viewers.
Rating: A-
Thursday, July 22, 2004 10:55:00 PM
SINGIN' IN THE RAIN
viewed on 24/7/04 (Sat)
Once upon a time, movie stars are stars not because they generate buzz and gossip but solely for their great great talent.
Singin' In the Rain (1952) stars Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds (that tough-talking mother in THE MOTHER?) and Donald O'Connor. They tap dance and sing and act. The dance sequences alone take my breath away. They so so well-synchronised that it must have gone through hundreds of rehearsals. The actors are so agile!Squatting and can-can dancing! It makes me wonder if Jackie Chan can try a musical like this but then again Gene Kelly can also do stunts.
When I was watching the so so famous Singin' In the Rain sequence, I was telling myself this has to be the happiest moment in movie history. I have heard so much about it. A true classic moment and indeed it is. So free-spirited and uplifting. Like a boy playing in the rain.
I don't really fancy musicals. Total crap, I think. Where in the hell will people break up into a song and dance in real life? But I think musicals like this one are such a joy to watch. I have to change my view about musicals. I think muscials like this one never fails to entertain and inspire awe. Implausible the story may be but I cannot hate movies whose sole mission is to put a big smile on your face.
Rating: B+
Saturday, July 24, 2004 9:32:00 PM
HUD
viewed on 25/7/04 (Sun)
No offence but I don't really think highly of this 1963 movie. Maybe I am just not comfortable with its 7 Oscar nominations. It is a moderate character study, not that great. Patricia Neal who has a supporting role actually won Best Actress. Paul Newman plays the usual brooding angry man in Cat On A Hot Tin Roof and Cool Hand Luke. Am I running out of things to say? Yup...
Rating: C+
Monday, July 26, 2004 9:40:00 PM
THE GUNS OF NAVARONE
viewed on 26/7/04 (Mon)
It is a well-made adventure film. But somehow, I feel that something is still not quite in place. Maybe it aims to be an action-packed popcorn movie. There are truly some thrilling moments and they are designed to make you sit at the edge of your seat. I think I am not happy with the human drama they forcedly imposed.
But then again I am asking for too much. It is afterall entertaining and a favourite film to many people, including some royalties or so the making-of documentary claims.
Rating: B+
Monday, July 26, 2004 9:49:00 PM
ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK
viewed on 28/7/04 (Wed)
If it is not made by John Carpenter, I don't think I will be interested in watching this actioner. I like the setup. 1997 New York (this movie was made in 1981) is now an isolated island where all the hardened criminals are left to fend for themselves. The President crash lands accidentally in it and needs an outlaw Snake, played by Kurt Russell, to rescue him.
For an actioner, the plot and the action are not that great but somehow things fall into places quite nicely. I expected something more to the cheesy side.
Being John Carpenter, there are a couple of 'decently' gory scenes. The soundtrack is very 'John Carpenter' too. The church organ music makes it feel like I am watching a horror movie.
I watch this out of curiosity and I don't expect myself to like it. But for its cultish feel, I have to admit this is a rather good movie. Can even be considered as an actioner classic.
Rating: B+
Wednesday, July 28, 2004 10:43:00 PM
It's a *cult* actioner classic! John Carpenter rocks! :-D
Thursday, July 29, 2004 2:33:00 AM
BROADCAST NEWS
viewed on 30/7/04 (Fri)
Totally detest this movie. Romantic comedy? My foot. There is really something wrong with all the characters. They cannot keep telling one another how great they are in their jobs. It becomes very very irritating.
The story goes nowhere in particular. The relationship of the three protagonists makes absolute nonsense.
I want to fail this 1987 Best Picture nominee (?!) but I am going to give credits solely to the good actors.
Rating: D-
Friday, July 30, 2004 10:24:00 PM
HAPPY TEXAS (1999)
viewed on 31/7/04 (Sat)
Bought the VCD some time back. The quality of the movie is so bad and heavily censored. I sold it away eventually. I did not watch the movie though.
The idea of the story is going to guarantee barrels of laughter. Two escaped convicts disguised as gay pageant trainers for little girls. One has to woo his dream girl while keeping up his 'gay' identity and pretending to date a gay sheriff (William H. Macy!!). The other, a roughneck, has to teach little girls how to catwalk, dance and even sew costumes for them. Along the way, they want to rob a bank too.
It is very entertaining but formulaic. After the first half of laughing silly, the second part becomes a tad dull and predictable. Kind of a waste of a good story.
Rating: B
Monday, August 02, 2004 9:01:00 PM
THE DIRTY DOZEN (1967)
viewed on 2/8/04 (Mon)
Knew the TV series inspired by this movie. Looks kind of one of those chauvinist action-packed no-brainers. I did not have a good impression of this movie though.
My younger brother asked for it. Apparently the show was so good, he could remember even the story details after so many years. Well, worth seeing then.
Yup. It is very engaging. Running at the length of 150 min., it doesn't for once feel long. Among the cast whom I know are Donald Sutherland, Charles Bronson and John Cassavetes. John is the father of Nick whose latest movie, The Notebook, is coming to town and he was married to Gena Rowlands.
Some interest findings after watching this and GUNS OF NAVARONE. The way the characters die is very laughable, twisting their bodies and faces. Though alot of scenes of killing, I will hardly see any blood and the killing is much like stageplay. It makes me question the necessity of gory scenes of violence in contemporary movies.
I always have this idea that the story happens at the battlefield when in fact, the first half of the movie takes place at the training base of the dozen and the second half happens at this chateau. The first half is not that as serious and even has some tongue-in-cheek humour.
The second half is when the action kicks in. The showdown at the chateau is really very very exciting. In the making-of featurette, we are told the set took four months to build and an actor had to risk his life to detonate explosives to blow up the place, just like in the story. That is to say there must not be a second take and the actor if not careful would die at the scene! In the absence of advanced technology in filmmaking, I really take my hat off these forefathers of filmmakers.
The story of twelve doomed prisoners on a doomed mission with a condemned officer may allow some grounds for some see-we-are-not-that-useless melodrama but surprisingly, the movie downplays all these and instead chooses to tell the story straight as an actioner. NOw, got that, Roland Emmerich?
Rating: B+
Monday, August 02, 2004 9:39:00 PM
THE CONVERSATION (1974)
viewed on 3/8/04 (Tues)
Judging from the cover of the DVD, it seems like an espionage actioner but it has a very strange feel.
It is part mood piece, part Hitchcockian and even part horror movie. The jazzy soundtrack adds on to the confusion.
After much patience, the movie actually makes some sense eventually. As the title implies, the whole story revolves around a tapped conversation between a young couple who may or may not be possible murder victims of a corporation's director. The conversation is played over and over again throughout the movie but it is integral in building up the meditative mystery.
The motive of the murder is never revealed. There is even a twist in the end which is unresolved. Still, somehow the film reaches a satisfactory ending.
The intrigue of the suspense. The twists in the end. The irony of it all, as what the closing scene suggests.
I just wonder why a small arty movie with mixed genres like this got nominated for Best Picture.
Rating: B
Tuesday, August 03, 2004 10:03:00 PM
THE BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI (1957)
viewed on 6/8/04 (Fri)
The whistle is the trademark of this movie. In fact, in the making-of documentary, the soldiers are whistling this Colonel Bogey’s March, whose lyrics were deemed somewhat objectionable so they have to whistle instead to sing.
They actually built a bridge over 8 months and blew it up in the climax. With a train falling into the river! Without special effects or models! Now here is the irony ...
Before I get to that. This film is based on a book by a Frenchie Pierre Boulle who did not speak a word of English. The original screenplay writers, Michael Wilson and Carl Foreman were linked to the communists so Oscar had to give the writing award to Pierre Boulle who did not speak a word of English! And in his book, the bridge is not blown up. But the producer felt that after all the hardship and sacrifices the characters have to make in the story, it would only be fair to blow up the bridge. In actual fact, the bridge was indeed blew up but not in the way in the movie. It was bombed by airplanes.
It is truly an epic, unlike the other wannabes like Troy. Besides the big grandness and the expected moving war heroics, it is not a story about the suffering and deaths building the bridge but it is about the honour and hope in the face of great adversity. They may be prisoners of war but they are still soldiers and not slaves. That is from the movie.
Here are the other memorable lines which struck a chord in me. Lifted from imdb.com
Major Shears: You make me sick with your heroics. There's a stench of death about you. You carry it in your pack like the plague. Explosives and L-pills - they go well together, don't they? And with you it's just one thing or the other: destroy a bridge or destroy yourself. This is just a game, this war! You and Colonel Nicholson, you're two of a kind, crazy with courage. For what? How to die like a gentleman... how to die by the rules... when the only important thing is how to live like a human being.
Colonel Nicholson: It is quite understandable. It's a very natural reaction. But one day, in a week, a month, a year, on that day when, God willing, we all return to our homes again, you're going to feel very proud of what you have achieved here in the face of great adversity. What you have done should be, and I think will be, an example to all our countrymen, soldier and civilian alike. You have survived with honor, that and more, here in the wilderness. You have turned defeat into victory. I congratulate you. Well done.
Colonel Nicholson: One day the war will be over. And I hope that the people that use this bridge in years to come will remember how it was built and who built it. Not a gang of slaves, but soldiers, British soldiers, Clipton, even in captivity.
Expected Rating: A-
Sunday, August 08, 2004 11:50:00 AM
THE KINGDOM AND THE BEAUTY (1959)
viewed on 7/8/04 (Sat)
Ask anyone middle-aged who ever heard of the huangmei diao, "Play Emperor" and you will probably see smiles on their faces.
When I returned the DVD at the drop-in yesterday, I noticed the light, "Retunred", did not light up. Suspecting something amiss, I checked my record and true enough it indicated that the DVD was not returned. I went to the counter to seek help from this old lady. When I mentioned the title of the DVD, she gave me a very pleasant smile. She must have seen it and like it too.
So is my Mum who was watching with me. In fact, Dad likes it so much he watched it twice, one time with Mum on a date. Mum remembers the story rather well even though she watched it like many many years ago. She said it was a big big hit back then. It is the date movie of their times.
From everything I gathered, I always thought the movie is a love comedy when all things will come to a happy ending. How wrong. The musical has a very sad ending. I think that is one of the reasons why it was so popular back then. Weepies sold very well. The ending comes more like a surprise to me because I see the female lead praying so so hard to the deities for a happy ending, crying her heart out on a stormy night.
The female lead Li Dai plays a country girl who is in love with the Emperor and even has a child with him. It should play very well with the girls when most dreamt of falling in love with an important man.
Also, I think the audiences can relate well to the part of the female lead being dumped by a heartless man. It happened in real life and in most Cantonese serials.
I don't really appreciate the huangmei diao sequences while Mum can even sing to some of them. Oh, I also realise that they even used songs to explain the characters' emotions. They also apparently used an ensemble of male and female voices for most of the songs.
Though the tale is as old as time and even cliched, I cannot bring myself to dislike it a bit. It is so full of fond memories for so many people. I am already very moved by this phenomenon.
Rating: B+
Sunday, August 08, 2004 4:29:00 PM
FUNNY GIRL (1968)
viewed on 8/8/04 (Sun)
I was watching the trailer of MEET THE FOCKERS and I am very pleasantly delighted to see Barbra Streisand playing a comic role as Ben Stiller's Mum.
I told myself I would borrow THE WAY WE WERE whose theme song was used in the trailer too, to comical effect of course.
Alas, they were out so I made do with this one. Should not be a bad choice since she got an Oscar for this movie.
As I was watching Barbra making funny faces and sounds in the show, I just wondered how did she get away with all the act-cute antics and won the heart of many? Back then in her debut movie, she was already so confident in her performance, either as an actress or a songbird. She doesn't really have the leading lady looks. Her big nose and skinny legs. Also part of her self-depreciative jokes in the movie. However, her talents are sensational to watch.
I think Barbra also inspired Sarah Jessica Parker's performance in SATC. There are many similarities in their mannerisms.
I am not really a big fan of musicals and the story and songs in FUNNY GIRL do not hit me in a big way too. Still, it is a must-see for music fans of Barbra Streisand and I hope MEET THE FOCKERS can be a successful comeback movie for her... and sings the theme song? Nah...
Rating: B
Sunday, August 08, 2004 6:43:00 PM
THE HOUSE OF 72 TENANTS (1973)
viewed on 8/8/04 (Sun)
I borrowed this to please my Mum. It should be a great movie we can watch together and bring us closer. Killing two birds with one stone.
This Cantonese ensemble piece is quite an eye-opener. A very young and cutesy Lydia Sum. A very young boyish He Shou Xin. A very young dashing Yue Hua. A very young Liu Dan (the father in the HK serial A KINDRED SPIRIT). Also there are cameos of a very young and skinny Zheny Shao Qui and a boyish-beyond-recognition Danny Li Xiuxian. Please, it is not that I notice only the male actors but I cannot recognise most of the female actresses. My guess is they got married, most probably to rich men and live as tai-tais now. Anyway it was the conservative era when they believed home is where a woman should belong eventually. Not?
By the way, the film is directed by Chu Yuan, also a cast of A KINDRED SPIRIT, playing the rich royal in-law from Malaysia. In his interview, he shares many stories about the movie industry back then. His socio-political stance in the movie was considered as a very brave move. There is a very famous cheeky chorus mocking the corruption of the firemen and playing with the pun of shui meaning water, which also refers to money in Cantonese. Chu Yuan said the firemen were so angry that they vowed not to help if his house was on fire.
The story is very typical of Cantonese serial. Good folks are always bullied by rich mean people. Good poor folks make fun of rich mean people. Good poor folks help one another very selflessly. There is a young couple fighting to run away from an arranged marriage. The audience most certainly could relate to all these. The movie suggests a big dose of humour and heartwarming community spirit is the antidote. Needless to say the movie was a box-office record breaker!
It was another very meaningful viewing experience with Mum. She laughed louder than me and for once I did not even mind her talking about all those good old days when I am watching a movie. You can imagine the better treatment I got from her that day. I even heard her talking to her friend on the phone about us watching THE KINGDOM AND THE BEAUTY the other day. Oh, just look at the power of movies...
Rating: A-
Sunday, August 08, 2004 7:55:00 PM
FATHER OF THE BRIDE (1950)
viewed on 15/8/04 (Sun)
Nope. This is not that Steve Martin comedy but the orginial movie which the remake is based on. Not that particular funny but I guess it relates more to daddys with daughters. It is a very family-oriented comedy, more like father-oriented. It covers all the aspects of what a father might worry when his baby girl is all grown up and getting married. Liz Taylor is so girly back then and the then new-star steals the show.
Rating: B
Tuesday, August 17, 2004 10:14:00 PM
GODZILLA (1998)
viewed on 19/8/04 (Thurs)
I really enjoy the parts when Godzilla goes on a rampage. It is pure entertainment and I want to see more of that, like a kid keep asking for more candies. The movie does not disappoint in this aspect. It is less talk and more SFX. Already I like this more than ID4 and The Day After Tomorrow.
I don't really buy the idea of Godzilla trapped under the cables at the bridge. How will they know the cables will trap it? The bridge doesn't collapse given the sheer size of it? It even jumped.
Nah, looking for loopholes in this kind of SFX blockbuster is really spoiling the fun of watching it. We should not take it so seriously so must the movie. I think that is why B-grade horror films always has a huge base of fans. A movie like this serve better with more visual thrills. Pump money in the SFX department and go all out to entertain. The only way to blow it is to insert some human drama. The actors and their stories are not at the centrestage. We pay money to see Godzilla only so omit the cheesy happy ending. I will cheer when Godzilla is dead but never for the characters' coming-of-age.
I also don't like them making fun of my beloved Uncle Ebert too. It makes them look more like sore losers.
The hint of a sequel is laughable, now that we know so many hated this movie so much that they scrapped the idea.
I think I will like this movie more, and maybe many others, if the movie takes itself less seriously and just enthrall us with those awesome awesome visual effects.
Rating: B-
Friday, August 20, 2004 12:28:00 AM
THE PERFECT STORM (2000)
viewed on 20/8/04 (Fri)
I was kicking myself for not watching this movie in a theatre to optimise the viewing pleasure. I put that on my must-see list but it had a rather short shelf-life. Think only two weeks. I missed it.
I wasn't pinning alot of hopes on this one, especially after being disappointed by TROY. Just wanted something lighter and thrilling so borrowed this and GODZILLA.
This movie did the right thing by offering more than an hour of awesome awesome awesome SFX visual treats! It doesn't hurt that the human drama is not bad at all. Great performances from all.
I really wish they will all return with 'a shitload of fish.' To go back to their loved ones. To prove to themselves they are capable of a big catch and makes big profits which they truly deserve. After braving so much bad luck and hardship, my heart goes all out for them. Please don't let them die, I prayed. They earn a glorious return.
I was actually bitterly disappointed that they all parish eventually. It is one hell of a good fight but still to no avail. I was so sure they will make it through the storm.
This is no popcorn actioner. It is a sad story about a bunch of people who lost their lives seeking a living. I wonder if they survive, would I have said the same thing? Most likely, yes.
Rating: B+
Friday, August 20, 2004 10:53:00 PM
BAREFOOT IN THE PARK (1967)
Heard quite alot of this very famous comedy play. This film version stars a very young Jane Fonda and Robert Redford. A dainty love comedy recommendable to newlyweds who are giddy with excitement until the inevitable squabbling kicks in and threats of divorce are hurled. It is not really that kind of laugh-out-loud funny but the dialogue is sly and witty. Got a feeling the movie is still somehow rather forgettable.
Rating: B
Sunday, August 22, 2004 10:52:00 AM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Monday, August 23, 2004 8:21:00 PM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Monday, August 23, 2004 8:23:00 PM
CLASH OF TITANS (1981)
viewed on 24/8/04 (Tues)
I can still remember vividly that I was terrified by the scene of Medusa. Her head of snakes and that green glow from the eyes. I saw the trailer and the promo pictures at the old Orchard theatre and they scared the hell out of me. I have always see this movie as a horror movie.
Of course, when I watch it now, the SFX (more like a stop-motion effects) is so chessy that it is rather laughable. Talking about overcoming your childhood scar.
That chessy special effects run through the movie. The dialogue is also very chessy. But still the entertainment value is very high. Not a dull moment. Seeing them so painstakingly create those larger-than-life visual effects, I wish they had the contemporary computer wizardry. It won't be a bad idea at all if they remake the movie now. I am sure it will be a hit.
Rating: B
Thursday, August 26, 2004 9:43:00 PM
SUPERMAN (1978)
viewed on 26/8/04 (Thurs)
I remembered watching this with my younger brother and my father at the old Rex theatre. The theatre is still there along Serangoon Road. Dad enjoyed bringing us to the movies. Haaa.. maybe he wanted to watch it as much as we did. It was quite an experience. I can still remember most of the scenes. The wonderment of seeing Superman flying. Dad once explained to us that they shot the scenes with him lying on a table. Then maybe removed the table. We never asked how but I remembered my cousin and I actually stretched out on a table imitating Superman. Those days...
Watching it again still amazes me. A movie made before the 80's was already so accomplished at the special effects. True they used models, which could be easily created with computers these days, but the effects are still very awesome.
It is even more interesting to watch the making-of documentaries. Richard Donner actually made Superman I and II simultaneously. But as he spent too much time and money making the first one, he was fired in Superman II. When Christopher Reeve auditioned for the part in the tight costume, we can even see the embarrassing sweat patches at his armpits.
While I wish Hollywood would remake CLASH OF THE TITANS, I do not wish it to see any remake of SUPERMAN or even more sequels. It is already so magical.
Rating: A-
Thursday, August 26, 2004 10:12:00 PM
PLAIN JANE TO THE RESCUE (1982)
viewed on 28/8/04
Be warned. I seriously think any John Woo movie before A BETTER TOMORROW might as well be forgettable. Look at this one. An underdog comedy with Ricky Hui and Josephine Siao as the leads promises so much fun but even they cannot save a way pathetically stupid script. I must admit I did laugh out loud at some slapstick antics but they come and go very quickly.
John Woo cameos as a director looking for job. In his role, he proudly exclaims that all directors must exaggerate. He lives by this motto. Ya, comedies do not necessarily require logic but this one is way too much. It is downright ridiculous and dumb.
I did not finish the whole movie. I was in the last chapter but I could not bear it anymore. My time should be spent somewhere else doing better things.
Rating: F
Saturday, August 28, 2004 10:48:00 PM
GOSSIP (2000)
viewed on 23/8/04 (Mon)
Last posting was deleted by mistake.
In a nutshell. It offers some interesting insights about rumours, riveting twists but all good suspense comes to a waste in an ending that tries too hard to be smart and shocking. It is akin to following an entertaining piece of gossip but only to be let down by a far less than satisfactory ending.
Rating: B-
Wednesday, September 01, 2004 12:28:00 PM
RADIO DAYS (1987)
viewed on 1/9/04 (Wed)
This Woody Allen movie is a bit different from his others. It revolves around alot family warmth and the bittersweet bonding among the relatives. They all share a common hobby - listening to the radio. The movie is made of all kinds of their favourite radio shows and the memories that evoked. Allen is happy just to be the narrator reminisces his childhood. I don't really think it is based on actual events.
Still as hilarious and witty, the movie is only made sweeter with a charming nostalgia.
Rating: B+
Wednesday, September 01, 2004 12:39:00 PM
MAMBO GIRL (1957)
viewed on 1/9/04
When I mentioned the movie title, Mum remembered the name of the female lead instantly. Ge Lan was not a ravishing beauty but her talents and amiable face made her very popular then. An era when talented and friendly movie stars were truly the idols.
It is a musical who seems to be more interested in the song and dance sequences. The songs are very catchy and dance sequences are simple and yet wholesomely fun to watch. They remind me of the senior citizens' folk dance and you will get a pretty good idea what they look like. Youngsters will cringe on the nerdy dance moves.
There is a sad episode in the story. Mambo Girl is found out to be an orphan on the day before her birthday. She runs away from her very caring foster family to look for her real Mum in a nightclub working as a toilet attendant. When the daughter and mother meet, the scene is rather touching. The mother jokingly denies her identity but goes on to ask alot about her daughter's life like a very concerned stranger.
Yes, all things will end well in this very happy musical. The story may not really light you up but the songs surely will. You will believe handling obstacles in life can be that simple. Just sing out the blues and dance all night long with people who care and love you.
Rating: B
Wednesday, September 01, 2004 1:05:00 PM
A BRIDGE TOO FAR (1977)
viewed on 3/9/04 (Fri)
My brother wanted me to borrow this. A war movie fan like him should enjoy this movie. The war scenes are spectacular. The narration does not stop for any melodrama. It is non-stop action all the way for almost three hours. It is very obvious that it is more concerned about telling the history straight than anything else.
What stellar cast too! Anthony Hopkins, Robert Redford, Sean Connery, Gene Hackman, Laurence Olivier, James Caan, Michael Caine etc. The director is Richard Attenborough. Surprisingly, the film receives no Oscar nominations... Too much of a heavy-going history lesson perhaps.
Rating: B
Friday, September 03, 2004 9:09:00 PM
STARMAN (1984)
viewed on 4/9/04 (Sat.)
Jeff Bridges had an Oscar nomination for this sci-fi romance. Directed by John Carpenter who seems to prefer horror flicks? Worth a watch.
Well if kids have E.T. to enjoy, the adults will have STARMAN. There are many similarities but I think STARMAN aims for a modest success only. The story is run-of-the-mill and a bit too long. The church-organ inspired soundtrack by Jack Nitzche seems to imitate John Carpenter's signature music tune. The slower pieces are very surreally romantic.
Rating: C+
Saturday, September 04, 2004 9:35:00 AM
SPACE JAM (1996)
viewed on 4/9/04 (Sat)
Sorry kids, Uncle Fong here is going to fail your beloved SPACE JAM. You don't mind too? You agree it is dumb too? Insulting your intelligence? You are so right! Meant for kids of age 3 and below? Haaa... I think so too. I tell you what I think they employ kids to write the story and the director is also a kid. You agree? What? Haaaa... that is a good one. Yes, might as well be made by the aliens from Moron Mountain. Haaa...
Rating: F
Saturday, September 04, 2004 9:25:00 PM
"Space Jam" was, indeed, pretty lame...
Saturday, September 04, 2004 9:29:00 PM
AN AMERICAN RHAPSODY (2001)
viewed on 5/9/04 (Sun)
I really hope I will like this movie more. While some movies go on and on to 'earn' your sympathy, I hope this one will explain more.
Why is there a drastic change in Suzanne's behaviour when she grows up? The bad influence from her jealous sister? The new home she is still adjusting after all these years? She misses her foster parents in Hungary. But to such desperate extent? The movie sure did not really convince me. Why is she fighting? I also want to know more about her mother's hatred for her own country. Maybe then I will accept Suzanne's change of heart more willingly.
Maybe the director wants to keep things simply told. Maybe she wants to move us in a quiet way. Maybe there are more personal details better left unsaid, this being her own true story.
Rating: C+
Sunday, September 05, 2004 9:18:00 PM
LIAR LIAR (1997)
viewed on 5/9/04 (Sun)
I scoffed at this Jim Carrey movie when it was released. I was truly puzzled that no one seemed to mind this irritating 'talented' comedian. Over the years I grow to respect him. THE TRUMAN SHOW. MAN ON THE MOON. I would like to see Jim Carrey be seriously taken by Oscars one day. I think if I watched this movie earlier, I would have changed my opinions about Mr Carrey even before THE TRUMAN SHOW.
I remember when I was browsing for titles for some light entertainment, I wanted to borrow this one but it was always on loan. When I finally found it, I grabbed it like a kid would. I wasn't expecting a great movie but just for a few laughs. I like the story idea but I did not seriously think they will move it to a higher ground. Hee... I am wrong. It actually moves me.
Yes. I laughed at Jim Carrey's outrageous antics. How did he do all that without getting hurt? I like the part when he tells his son that some people make a good living making funny faces. Haaa... only an idiot cannot tell it is a reference to himself. Yes. Good living and this is a good movie. He really make good use of his rubber face.
There are some really touching moments. I surprise myself when I do not even feel goose pimples when Jim Carrey sprouts those 'mushy' lines. Hey. He is so sincere that you will also believe he is serious for once. I love Jim Carrey even more in his interviews. I see him as a serious and professional actor, who respects comedies, with a big big sense of humour. Plus he is not a show-off as I have always perceived.
Rating: B+
Sunday, September 05, 2004 9:42:00 PM
THE BOSTONIANS (1984)
viewed on 5/9/05 (Sun)
I think there are few standard things you can look forward in the Merchant Ivory movies. Great cinematography. Great performances. Nice costumes. Nice music. But do please expect something on the boring side. With all respect, with a bow. I think I like THE REMAINS OF THE DAY most.
It is adapted from a novel by Henry James which is basically about one morbid old maid (as correctly described by a character) and a man figthing over a girl. Yup. Lesbianism, all in the name of feminism.
The ending is queer too. Pun not intended. So what's the message in that speech? In the movie? Ok, there is one pleasant surprise, 'Superman' Christopher Reeve is good with that Southern accent.
Rating: C
Sunday, September 05, 2004 10:01:00 PM
AGNES OF GOD (1985)
viewed on 6/9/04 (Mon)
When movies end with unanswered questions, I will most likely feel frustrated. I find this kind of storytelling disorganised and it gets on my nerves. But for AGNES OF GOD, I find myself asking the questions and trying to look for answers to them. There must be more to it than what may seem to be a sloppy ending.
So is it all real after all? A miracle gone wrong? Is it the field hand whom Jane Fonda's psychiatrist suggests? If that is so, why the holes on Agnes' palms and how to explain the blood from them? And that pivotal subplot of Sister Paul. What did she mutter before her death? Is it really 'Michael'? Who is he?
I thought I could find the answers on imdb.com. To my disappointment, many viewers are also puzzled by the very same questions. Some even hated the movie and Uncle Ebert slapped the movie with one star only. I was beginning to wonder myself? So is this one of those 'disorganised' movies after all? I am kidding myself thinking there should be answers worth searching for.
I still think there is more to it. You can see I am becoming rather protective over this movie. I like the suspense that grips me from the very beginning. Even though it is not a whodunit but every turn of events seem to get closer and closer to the truth, which I suspect will be a very mind-boggling one. I wonder how will M. Night Shyamalan end the movie if he is writing it. By the way, the lines are very thought-provoking, revolving around religion beliefs, disillusions, miracles and innocence ravaged.
Let me try to interpret. I think Agnes is indeed impregnated by a man who comes to work at the nuns' farm. Even though they deny employing help. Sister Paul and Agnes saw one of the field hands at the bell tower. His name is Michael and I guess they know him. Sister Paul shows Agnes the secret passage to the barn but not with the intention of encouraging her to taste the forbidden fruit. Agnes wonders into the passage and finds Michael at the barn. Thinking it was God himself, she had sex with Michael. She kills the baby after birth thinking it is a mistake by God and wants to 'return' it to Him. The blood from the holes on Agnes' palms is a miracle. Totally unexplained.
You see, this conclusion is all in my imagination. I am not so sure myself. I hope one of these days, I can find the 'real' answers.
Rating: A-
Monday, September 06, 2004 8:17:00 PM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Wednesday, September 08, 2004 9:59:00 AM
THE SCENT OF GREEN PAPAYA (1993)
viewed on 7/9/04 (Tues)
You freeze any frame of the movie and you will get a postcard picture. That is how beautiful the cinematography can be. In fact, I think the director is more in love in capturing the prettiest shot than telling a story. Well, according to Uncle Ebert, the story is about the growth of a girl to womanhood. Accepted... but the girl seems to be more of an observer of things happening to people around her.
For me, I like the therapeutic effects it evokes. I can imagine watching this after IRREVERSIBLE and BATTLE ROYALE (two most disturbing movies I've ever seen); it would be like having spa. Come to think about it, it would not be a bad idea to play this film at those spa centres.
Rating: C+
Wednesday, September 08, 2004 10:53:00 PM
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Thursday, September 09, 2004 10:28:00 PM
PEKING OPERA BLUES (1986)
viewed on 7/9/04 (Tues)
I used to go ga-ga over Tsui Hark's movies and I confidently claimed that he is our Eastern Steven Spielberg. I like ONCE UPON IN CHINA and SWORDSMAN. I love his BUTTERFLY LOVERS. I LOVE GREEN SNAKE. I even love a little unknown film by him called THE BLADE. I also love some of the films produced by him which have his directing style like NEW DRAGON GATE INN and A CHINESE GHOST STORY. That is of course before he was somehow 'destroyed' by Hollywood.
PEKING OPERA BLUES is an action-comedy and it was only a preview to what a brilliant entertainer Tsui Hark was about to become. The laughs and action are wall-to-wall! I was captivated not only by the sly humour but a very well-written tight script that leaves not even a second for the viewers to feel bored. Yet it is still able to squeeze in some heartfelt moments of patrotism, sisterhood love and romance. It is a great achievement in wondorous entertainment and if Hollywood has a chance to release this and his other movies in US, they will be very pleasantly surprised. Forget about DOUBLE TEAM and KNOCK OFF!
I was very tempted to give a grade A to this film because it reminds so much of all the good films made by Tsui Hark, my long lost idol. Wherever you are, idol, I hope you know I really missed movies you used to make. Ok. Maybe not a grade A but ...
Rating: A-
Thursday, September 09, 2004 11:20:00 PM
ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST (1975)
viewed on 8/9/04 (Wed)
I knew I would be watching a parable on conforming to rules-obsessed control freaks in our infrastructure. However, when the end credits rolled, I was scratching my head. I did not really understand the movie? I found some of the answers in the making-of featurette. A lot of discussion was made on how the director Milos Forman went to the extent of making the actors live in a realy asylum and interact with real mental patients to turn a cast of film debuts into Oscar-worthy performers. The performances are indeed first-class, especially the head nurse played by Oscar winner Louise Fletcher. Evil is never portrayed in such subtleness.
I know it is a great movie and I somehow regret it did not really get to me. I find myself blaming not the movie but myself. I have to watch this again to appreciate it. But until then, I have to be honest and dish out my rating.
Rating: B-
Thursday, September 09, 2004 11:41:00 PM
THE PLANET OF THE APES (1968)
viewed on 10/9/04 (Fri)
I came across the TV series of the same name when I was very very young. I did not have a good impression. Maybe I was too young to understand the implications or I just didn't like the what seemed to be like actors walking around in dumb-looking gorilla suits.
While Tim Burton kept the ending as a twist, here in the original, we know the ending already ... from the cover of the DVD! Nope it doesn't give away too much because it is not interested in any big twists. It has a bigger mission. It not only contemplates the possibility of apes' intelligence surpasses humans', but goes deeper than that.
The movie predicts our reactions if we ever found an ape as smart as us. We will feel threatened, scared and even denial. We will refuse to think that we are may not be the only superior species. We know in the animal kingdom apes have the intelligence closest to us and it is not impossible that one day they will evolve into something like us.
Near the ending, the movie implies that it is indeed greed and war that had allowed human beings to be eloved back into animals and hence the apes overtake us. There is evidence and the Statue of Liberty at the beach will be the testimonial. The very senior apes know about this from the Lawgiver's scrolls, a reference to the Bible and God. They hid the evidence. The younger apes are curious about humans and keep them for experiments, pets and even specimens in a museum.
In the book which the movie is based on, the apes are supposed to have a very technologically advanced society but in 1968 it will be very tedious to create. Tim Burton has the advantage but he did not choose the option. He has his heart set on making a horror sci-fi movie.
Now you will see why critics and fans are not happy with Tim Burton's reimagination or remake of this sci-fi classic. It is more than just a science fiction but a very thought-provoking cautionary tale.
Rating: A
Saturday, September 11, 2004 3:02:00 PM
2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY (1968)
viewed on 11/9/04 (Sat)
This is the grand daddy of all sci-fi movies. It is reverent and easily the single most important sci-fi movie. Sorry, not even STAR WARS.
It is pensive. There are many many quiet moments to allow us to marvel the visual wonders of space and imagined technology. For almost half an hour at the beginning and the end of the running time, there is no dialogue. Yet, it is not boring to watch. It is like walking through a gallery of really awe-inspiring sights. It is not so much of the special effects but the interestingly tranquility in the slow motion. The close observation of details is absolutely admirable.
There is hardly any story. The ending is even more puzzling. Well, audience walked out at the premiere and critics hated it. Arthur C. Clarke said, "If you understand 2001 completely, we failed. We wanted to raise far more questions than we answered."
Over the years, the film has remained kind of untouchable. Either you hate or love it, but you will not say it is not an important film.
Rating: B+
Sunday, September 12, 2004 9:45:00 PM
DOG DAY AFTERNOON (1975)
viewed on 12/9/04 (Sun)
I have always perceived this movie as a heavy social commentary tale. The first half turns out to be rather funny. Two bank robbers run into some outrageous hiccups while robbing the bank. An accomplice backed out in the last minute. One bank robber tries to be smart and burns a register in a bin. The smoke attracts a passer-by, risking being caught. After going through all the trouble, the bank vault is actually left with a small sum of money only. Then, without a clue, they are on national TV, surrounded by police, TV media reporters, a huge crowd and ... gay supporters. Al Pacino's character is a bisexual who is married to a chubby woman with two kids and has a guy he claims to be his wife. He robs the bank for his sex change operation. It is afterall a comedy?
Not really. The second half sees the movie declines into darker depths. It ends in a tragedy. I really hope the movie will end with a lighter note. It feels unbalanced.
Based on true events so I kind of cannot complain much.
Rating: B
Tuesday, September 14, 2004 11:33:00 PM
AFFLICTION (1997)
viewed on 16/9/04 (Thurs)
I was trying to find another critic who hates this movie. Too bad, Uncler Ebert likes it alot too. For me, it is messy. So many questions left in the cold. The hunting accident. How does that fit into the story? Why did Nick Nolte's girlfriend hates him so much that she opts to leave? Some movies choose to say little to mean alot. I wish this one will really say more to mean more.
Rating: D
Friday, September 17, 2004 8:21:00 PM
BLACK NARCISSUS (1947)
viewed on 20/9/04 (Mon)
It is more of an accomplishment in cinematography. The story is so-so. The acting not bad. The atmosphere will best for a horror story, which in this movie, it isn't. But come to think about it, all things else will most likely fade in comparison to the bold colours and cinematography. Now, I do not really like movies without a truly good story but I like this one. It will be a very pleasant viewing experience if you watch this very late at night. Don't know. Just think it will be perfect.
Rating: B
Wednesday, September 22, 2004 12:42:00 AM
THE GATHERING STORM (2002)
viewed on 22/9/04 (Wed)
It is a much lauded TV movie at Emmys and the Golden Globes. The cast list is very impressive, Vanessa Redgrave, Albert Finney, Tom Wilkinson and Jim Broadbent. The performance is flawless and so are the production values. I am looking forward to WIMBLEDON which is directed by the same director. Another biographical epic.
I do have a small gripe. What is the central focus of the movie? The loving relationship of Winston Churchill and his wife? Then why the title is THE GATHERING STORM which seems to imply more than a romance. If it refers to the growing power of Hilter's army planning to conquer the world, then the romance is a big distraction. When Winston is busy convincing his party and the PM that their ally Germany is planning another world war, he has to grapple with jealousy when his wife is on a holiday with another man. Maybe to let us see how insecure Winston Churchill can be when he is so sure in his political stand? Then what about the subplot of another character who feeds Winston with highly classified information and has a spastic child? It seems like more is planned to say about him and his family. It never really does. Not to mention the total omission of Winston's daughter who dreams to dance professionally towards the end of the movie.
Now, I may sound like I am complaining alot but I am, as I said earlier, very pleased with the performances and the production values. I am willingly to forget the hiccups in the storytelling.
Rating: B+
Thursday, September 23, 2004 10:26:00 PM
VERTICAL LIMIT (2000)
viewed on 25/9/04 (Sat)
This together with DEEP BLUE SEA are two adventure actioners I am keen to catch. I don't really know why. Just got a good feeling about them.
I like VERTICAL LIMIT and even have a certain respect for it. It is quite hard to come across a rather human adventure actioner. It chooses not to let its male lead be the sole hero with all the bright ideas and fearless gut. It does not have any unarmed combat and gunfight to induce excitement. The only antagonists are the violent weather, the treacherous terrain and all that snow. The movie keeps this as a focus and develops into a very nail-biting rescue mission, that is believable and never over-the-top melodramatic.
There are many scenes which require a very clear-minded person to make very very tough decisions, even that means seeing your loved ones and close friends die. Up there, if you let your emotions get in the way, you will jeopardise the survival chances of many others. Making sacrifices become more of logical than emotional. Respecting and saving life is of paramount importance. I gain a good idea of the psyche of a mountain climber.
Rating: B+
Sunday, September 26, 2004 12:30:00 AM
DUMBO (1941)
viewed on 26/9/04 (Sun)
Some trivia for that the oh-so-cute elephant with big ears. His name is actually Jumbo Junior and Dumbo is the nickname given by his mother's nasty colleagues in the circus. Dumbo does not speak a word and till now, the only title character with no lines. Now that makes the animated feature more endearing. Dumbo is teased for having big ears and when his mother punishes the mocker, she is locked up as a mad elephant.
Then comes the most heartwrenching moment. Easily the most touching scene in all animated films. With the help of one true friend, a rat called Timothy, Dumbo pays a visit to his mother. They can't see face to face so Dumbo's mother stretches out her trunk to cradle Dumbo. Dumbo sheds two big tears and his mother sings the Oscar-winning song , Baby Mine. Then it shows the other baby animals sleeping with their mothers. Only Dumbo is deprived of that blessing.
Not only that scene can relate to all children. They can also relate to Dumbo's self-doubt and misery for being different. He is laughed at. He is made a clown and everyone sees him as a freak. Every child can feel for Dumbo. Aren't we all at one point or other made to seem different by other kids? I was called a sissy by primary school mates and my army comrades called me fat ass. Haaa...
DUMBO should be watched by all children. A perfect movie to learn about parental love and loving oneself.
Sadly, I have only one complaint, the weird and morbid "Pink Elephants on Parade" number. It is out of place. Some will find the sequence resplendent and spectacular but personally I feel that it is a blemish.
Rating: B+
Sunday, September 26, 2004 6:24:00 PM
HEARTS AND MINDS (1974)
viewed on 29/9/04 (Wed)
An insightful documentary about the ever-so talked-about Vietnam War. It tells us that after emerging from WWII as a superpower, America's decision to be involved in the Vietnam War, fighting against communism, was basically a exercise of flexing the American ego. The soldiers were sent there without properly told a purpose. One veteran confessed that he did not know what he was bombing but he had the sheer excitement of hitting a target, be it a village or an enemy.
They even show a returned Vietnam War POW making his rounds to schools and public forums, praising America's 'world-saving' effort in Vietnam. He, like many others, were brainwashed to be blindly patriotic. But many others also had a rude awakening that the war was all a mistake and their faith in America was shaken overnight.
There are also scenes of the Vietnamese commoners cursing the America for bombing their homes and killing their people. The soldiers were given inaccurate and incomplete information and hence the unjust treatment of the commoners. They were even brainwashed to think that women and children were communists and deserved to be punished or killed. There is a scene a soldier shoots a man in the head and blood is squirting out like a mini-fountain.
I find that alot has been told but the documentary needs some editing to make it more focused. It can either be viewed as quietly moving or simply boring to some. I believe the makers had the former in mind instead.
Rating: B
Monday, October 04, 2004 12:51:00 AM
THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER (1940)
viewed on 2/10/04 (Sat)
YOU'VE GOT EMAIL is said to be a remake of this movie but there are many differences. To say the former is inspired by this classic is more like it.
It is a sweet love comedy and the lines can be so wickedly funny. And I thought there will be a generation gap. I am rather surprised that the love story doesn't hog the limelight. There are also subplots revolve around the harmonious working relationships at the shop.
It doesn't strike me as a memorable movie but I like its heartwarming humanity. It is a perfect movie to watch late at night and then go to bed with a smile.
Rating: B
Wednesday, October 06, 2004 4:43:00 PM
A BETTER TOMORROW (1986)
viewed on 2/10/04 (Sun)
There are three moments in the movie that I cried. It is unbelievable. This is a, at heart, mob movie, you know, that kind which always being accused of glamourising triads.
But that is just the background of John Woo's moving story about an underdog seeking forgiveness, redemption and revenge.
Back to the three moments. First one. Ti Lung's Song Zi Hao meets Chow Yun Fat's Mark after being released from prison. Mark has been reduced to a very sorry state, eating his packet rice at a corner of a carpark. Zi Hao walks up to Mark and says,"This is not what you said in the letter." I choked on my tears already.
Second one. Zi Hao is cornered by his own brother, Leslie's Zi Jie, at the back alley. He insists his older brother on calling him 'Ah Sir' and not by his name. When Zi Jie accuses Zi Hao of going back to secret society, he turns around and brokenheartedly says, "Ah Sir. I have not been a Dai Gor for a long time."
Third one. Mark asks Zi Jie angrily,"If your brother has the courage to change, why can't you have the courage to accept him?" Well-said! I cried again.
A BETTER TOMORROW remains a very endearing movie to me. The main plot is simple but the performances are top-notch. Any lesser actors will make the drama feel amateurish. If you notice, the development of the story is rather clever. One thing leads to another without feeling forced or incredible. The ending is satisfactory. It somehow strikes everything at the right places. The main audience will like it and the critics will be impressed by the smaller details.
I saw the trailer when I rented John Woo's earlier movie, PLAIN JANE TO THE RESCUE. Thanks goodness, he did not continue to go lower than that but emerges to be one of the best HK directors. Many remember fondly of A BETTER TOMORROW. One female colleague of mine can still remember the touching moments. So did my friend, Alan. It has to be everyone's favourite.
Some trivia. Chow Yun Fat was chosen for the role because he did not look like an action hero. Surprisingly, he established himself successfully as one after this even till this day. Back then, Chow Yun Fat was popular on TV but his movies were flops. Prodcuers were even worried that the casting of Chow Yun Fat would affect the box office returns. Of course, that did not happen and in fact the movie remained as the top box office hit for 7 years!
Rating: A
Wednesday, October 06, 2004 10:03:00 PM
Post a Comment
<< Home