Clare-5 Reviews

The Last Castle (2001)

We'll be seeing more of film newcomer, Steve Burton.

[10/10 · 20 October 2001]

This movie focuses on the pride of men. A prison of soldiers, stripped of their rank and honor, find pride again in the leadership of one man, General Irwin, played with conviction by Robert Redford. Together, they band together to take control of The Castle. I loved how Irwin was reluctant at first to lead the men. He wanted nothing more tan to serve his time and go home, but while you can take rank and title away, you can never take away the heart of a solier.

James Gandolfini played Winters, the man in charge of the prison, who, while not corrupt, does not run the prison with the best judgement. At his side is Captian Peretz, portrayed by film newcomer, Steve Burton. Together, they try to stop Irwin from leading a prisoner uprising.

While Redford and Gandolfini were excellent in their roles, Steve Burton stole the show, in my opinion. When Gandolfini's Winters succumbed to his own inadequacies, Peretz remained in control. The guards followed his command when their leader surrendered his flag.

I, for one, could not keep my eyes off of Captian Peretz. For a relatively small role, Steve Burton sure made the most of it. There were not many lines, beyond, yes sir and no sir, but he could convey volumes with just a squint of his beautiful blue eyes or a simple gesture.

I am guessing that this will not be the last we see of Steve Burton. That man had full-fledged movie star written all over him.

Sweet November (2001)

Living Life on your own terms

[7/10 · 17 February 2001]

This is a bittersweet romance. Sara knows she is dying, but instead of giving up, she wants to have as many experiences she can. She wants to be loved for her vivacity and livliness. She does not want to be remembered as the hollow, week skeleton of someone who was once full of life. She doesn't want to be anyone's sad story.

When she falls in love with Nelson, she is forced to choose between the world she has built for herself and the one she has always feared. She chooses to do what is best for her. She lives life on her own terms. She refuses to let her impending death rule whatever life she has left.

As much as you want her to let Nelson take care of her, you know that she can't let him. Sara has to let Nelson go in order to focus on life. Once he found out she was dying, he was too protective of her, always worrying about what might happen instead of just loving her and enjoying the present.

Nowhere Man (1995–1996)

I'm so glad I'm not the only one who misses this show!!

[5 August 2000]

I'm so glad I'm not the only one who loves and misses this show. I don't understand why they canceled it. Bruce Greenwood was perfectly cast as Thomas Veil. I wish they would have at least done a series finale and let you know what the truth was behind the conspiracy.

You've Got Mail (1998)

This movie was so much more than I expected.

[9/10 · 21 December 1998]

This movie was so much better than I expected, which was a simple romantic comedy with predictable "pass each other in the street" scenarios throughout. I was pleasantly surprised to find a love story that touched my heart. Kathleen's vulnerability and pride in her mother made me cry and Joe's sensitivity and devious behavior were so very sweet.

I didn't think that Tom Hanks & Meg Ryan could pull off a romance better than they did in Sleepless In Seattle but I am happy to be mistaken.

Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998)

Ever After makes you believe that dreams come true.

[10/10 · 15 November 1998]

Ever After is a wonderful movie. I loved everything about it. Danielle was fiercely independent. The best scene in the movie was without a doubt when Danielle asked the gypsies if she could have their word that she could take with her all she could carry and then proceeded to hoist up Prince Harry and walk off.

Danielle is the strong person I aspire to be. You knew that she was going to be ok, even if she didn't get the guy. She got *herself* released from the goon who her evil stepmother sold her to. And how sweet was her revenge.

Drew Barrymore made this character come alive with her wonderful acting skill. She brought Danielle from bold and vivacious to timid and meek in the blink of an eye, and then back again.

Ever After makes you believe that dreams do come true and that you control your own fate.

Sesame Street (1969– )

Happy 30th Birthday to a wonderful show!

[15 November 1998]

I am 23 years old and I grew up watching Sesame Street. I love this show. It's so very educational but it makes it fun. I was probably eight or nine when my mom finally corrected me and told me that the real words to the Beatles song I often sang were "Let It Be", not "Letter B".

I have so many fond memories of this show. Hats off to Sesame Street's 30th birthday and here's to 30 more. This is a show that I want my children to be able to grow up with as well. I applaud and thank the cast and crew for their dedication to children.

Oh yes, finally, I love Elmo & Grover & Telly Monster & Cookie Monster & Kermit the Frog & Snuffie, & Big Bird & Bert & Ernie& Harry & yes, even Oscar the Grouch.

Sunny Day, everythings A- OK. Friendly Neighbors. That's where we meet. Can you tell me how to get to Sesame Street.