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Reviews
Louis C.K.: Shameless (2007)
You MUST see this show!
I've heard about, of, and from Loius C.K. on numerous occasions in the past from his work as writer and performer on various talk shows and his own shows and movies, but really hadn't paid much attention, other than enjoying the results of his behind the scenes work and seeing him perform occasionally.
His work on "Shameless" is exceptional. Vulgar and potentially offensive to those who only look skin deep, but for those who hunt for true talent and brilliance regardless of the wrapping it's contained in will LOVE this incredible performance.
I kept thinking of the notion of "fantasy" in so many of his stories and personal anecdotes, most of which are obviously as false as Phyllis Diller's face, but the delight with which Loius paints these pictures is absolutely mesmerizing. I found myself almost hypnotized by a twisted weave of stories that seemed to marry "40 Year Old Virgin" with "Pulp Fiction". As profane as some of his material is, it always seems "tasteful" and simply brilliant.
If you missed it tonight, watch it on HBO On Demand whenever you want beginning on Monday.
Will Smith's Red Carpet Race (2005)
A Race for Couch (on planes) Potatoes
First, I should probably acknowledge that I'm biased. I LOVE the extras and bonus features that are included on DVD releases of movies. Each feature ads to the ability that I have to be a part of and almost touch the production, the actors, location, and even the story. Call me romantic, but that's how I see it. And I AM romantic and a middle-aged man as well.
Not only am I surprised that this feature from the "Hitch" DVD merited a separate listing on IMDb, I'm surprised that what it covers was considered a "race". Maybe in the same vein as "Amazing Race" perhaps? I won't dare reveal the outcome or whether he accomplishes the record, but while it was a fun few minutes spent, I didn't get the sense of any dash for the finish line. More like a modern version of "Lives of the Rich and Famous" or the current "Fabulous Life of.." series on Bravo or is it A&E? I loved the movie, but there were other features far better than this.
Now if you'll excuse me, I must go prepare for my surely record setting longest sleep in a night trial. Will I need to actually be awake for the ceremony, if I win?
Red Dragon (2002)
Absolutely Delicious ...and I knew what it beforehand.
The opening scene, now apparently leaked by the studio as well as being made quite obvious within the scene itself, says everything about the movie. Absolutely delicious!
Admittedly, I had very high expectations for this production, given the incredible ensemble cast (and it truly was an ensemble performance), but the finished meal is always better than the recipe (more food analogy. Sorry) "Red Dragon" proves once again that what makes an incredible movie is not action, stunts, and special effects, but well developed believable characters, incredible story, an original plot, and a journey. "Red Dragon" was an incredible journey.
There were so many major elements to love as well as nuances to savor. The cast, again, was incredible. I couldn't have imagined anyone else but these seven spectacular actors playing these characters. The story and screenplay each are examples of the best of American literature and cinema. Danny Elfman's score, like perfect seasoning, only enhanced everything else. The photography and cinematography were breathtaking. I even loved the "costumes". I rarely even care about wardrobe and costumes in plays and movies, but even that element was exemplary.
This is what going to the movies is supposed to be like. A joy, a sensational experience, pure entertainment, and a temporary suspension of reality in exchange for the reality being projected on the screen. Granted, I anticipated a great deal to begin with, but my expectations were significantly exceeded. Surely, I could mention nuances that, perhaps, could have been changed, but they would be on the magnitude of a fork being set slightly crooked at the table setting of the best dinner you've ever had in your entire life. What is it about this movie's relationship with food and dining? Oh that's right. It's absolutely delicious.
If you don't see "Red Dragon", you're truly starving yourself. Go. Treat yourself to a fine meal of a movie. Enjoy the fava beans and chianti. You'll thank me later. No tip necessary. This was the necessary tip.
Crime & Punishment (2002)
Maybe not the most sensational, but excellent "reality television"!
Dick Wolf's latest Law & Order "franchise" enters the world of the real world. (Law & Order does MTV? Scary thought.) While it doesn't claim to be even related to L&O, you can't mistake the opening theme music.
The opening episode can't be compared to anything I've seen on network or even cable television before. Not really Court TV and definitely nothing like the many series based on law practices or the legal system (to coin an L&O intro line), Crime and Punishment REALLY is the most interesting moments of a major trial, well edited, well produced, and presented "unfiltered" for the enjoyment of the more sophisticated viewer.
I was beginning to think I was getting bored, but I had to remind myself that this wasn't typical network television dribble.
This was like dining at a an exquisite restaurant. Very high quality and the cuisine was well prepared, seasoned appropriately, but not overwhelmingly (i.e. no sensationalism). Even without a great deal of drama, I found myself thoroughly engaged in this vivid "fly on the wall" delivery of an actual court case.
I've said enough. Treat yourself to elegant television dining. Hopefully, Crime and Punishment will be around for many season(ing)s!
Big Daddy (1999)
It's time to take Sandler seriously...He's seriously wonderful!
One of the best talents to come out of the Saturday Night Live world, Adam Sandler is really developing a solid track record of making excellent movies. Big Daddy shows his amazing versatility at being both crazy and sentimental/sensitive at the same time. His performances in ALL of his roles are so sincere and convincing that I feel like I've been watching him for years....
Just a wonderful movie. Joey Lauren Adams is delightful as his first-reluctant true love. She and Sandler were wonderful together.
Analyze This (1999)
Wow! Go see it. De Niro as the comic and Crystal as the straight guy!? Analyze THAT??
I loved it.. Seeing the relationship between Crystal and De Niro on screen was amazing. Reminded me of watching De Niro and Pacino in "Heat". In this case, I could only imagine the coaching Crystal did with De Niro between takes. The timing, wit, and charm of the humor was definitely Crystalized. It was wonderful. The lines, especially from the trailer, will probably become cultural cliches. Some of the best comedic dialog in a movie I've seen in years.
The work from the supporting cast was wonderful. I particularly adored Joe Viterelli as Vitti's loyal and "nuturing" henchman, Jelly. Definitely the guy you'd want to have kill you, if it had to happen. The movie could have served as a PSA for La Cosa Nostra; sympathizing, even empathizing with mob characters. Lisa Kudrow did mostly a cameo performance of herself as Crystal's fiancee, but I'm beginning to enjoy her big screen persona vs. her long established small screen version. Chazz Palminteri as Primo was a classic wise guy and played off of Deniro as if they'd known and worked with each other for years, which ....yup!
So that leaves me with my only dilemma. While I did thoroughly enjoy the movie, I didn't like the deja vu quality and felt somewhat cheated. I've been watching "The Soprano's" on HBO for over a month now and absolutely love it. THE best thing new on television since NYPD Blue. Nice that they're back to back. There are so many parallels, it's startling. The only major variation is that "The Soprano's" is more of a drama, while "Analyze This" is a comedy and a farce. Question is which inspired which??? And how come no one's saying anything and everyone seems to be attempting to deny any connection?
Yes, let's analyze THAT. And to that, he said "Cliche'!".