Vertigo-27 Reviews

Swimming (2000)

Very Very Excellent!!

[12 July 2003]

ANYONE that has ever been to Myrtle Beach, SC can relate to this movie more than the average viewer. There is something in the air almost that generates youth and nostalgia through you while visiting and when you leave you are never quite the same. In the opening reel you see young teenagers cruising the boulevard and haunting by-passers on the beach that make one realize in a single instant while there (a place where we all connect) just how many people we pass by never getting to know.

This film touches greatly on rich characters... Franky the main character is deep and forlorn. We are directly put into someones shoes through her of how it must be to actually "live" in a place we all wish we could stay. Instead of being the "vacationers" as in most movies we get to see a residents point of view. An exceptional character is also the girl who seemingly befriends Franky, coming in to town shaking her up and confusing her just when she thought she wanted a little bit of change. This girl is a true character she symbolizes most people and how they are clueless to most depth of life.. she can be described as those shallow "fly-by-night" people that we have all encountered that you wish and think might stay but in the end they never do. Franky's romantic involvement with new-age hippi Heath is right-on target and pulls the story to its closure.

The main point of the story is very much what I described near the beginning. In the movie Franky never swims, even being asked 5 or 6 times. Near the end she simply states that it would be weird if she leaves because she will not have the ocean to swim in, as it has always been in her own backyard. This is the eye-opening truth in all of our lives... we take for granted what others see. And just like her old friendship with Nicola that seemed tired when the new girl arrived... Franky got a taste of not dealing with Nicola but soon realized that you can't easily say goodbye to something you will always remember.

This movie is highly under-rated (as are alot of non-blockbusters these days). It is great to see a movie filmed in the South at one of the best and most popular beaches in the world. "Shag" (Another great movie) was also filmed in Myrtle Beach, however it is taken from the "visitors" point of view and we don't get to see and feel what it is like to be trapped in somewhere so wonderful and still want out.

View from the Top (2003)

Why does the movie industry think we can't take plane or tragedy movies because of 9/11?

[3 April 2003]

I think we are not stupid enough to confuse a movie with real life. If we didn't mind watching airplane crashes, terrorists, bombs, war, death and violence before all the tragedy that has currently happened then we should be able to take it now. Movies have been hacked (as this one and its best scenes tacked haplessly on at the end), re-arranged script, even canceled due to what they think the public can or can't handle after 9/11 or during the war... I would personally rather see a great movie than an obvious cop-out. For example "The Core" and "Phone Booth" are not getting enough advertisement because of everything that has happened.

"View from the Top" could have been good. It was just ok merging on not good. The funniest scene is when (always reliable) Christina Applegate goes bitch on Paltrow. Applegate is a very under-estimated actress, I can't wait to see her gain the success she has deserved for years. There should have been more funny moments than just the obvious airline jokes. The plot was extremely messed up, it felt like the movie went on and on trying to find more story line because it ran out of fuel. And Paltrow's boyfriend had no reason not to go with her to NY and that was totally unbelievable.

Mike Myers was also jarred a with blah role. He seemed forced and not let free to do what he wanted with his character. He was best in "54" (an Oscar snub of Best Supporting Actor if there ever has been one) and "So I Married An Ax Murderer". And what the hell is Stacey Dash doing thrown in a mute role like that after all the talk she got in "Clueless". WHY ARE PEOPLE BEING GIVEN THE MONEY TO MAKE THESE MOVIES FILLED WITH GREAT ACTORS AND A POSSIBLE GOOD SCRIPT ONLY TO TOTALLY SCREW IT UP?!?!

I was so eager to watch this movie because it seemed like it would be sweet and it seemed actually different because it was about flight attendants. There should have been alot more about the attendants being trained. A scene where the plane-simulator goes haywire would have been hilarious like throwing everyone around and no one knowing what to do. Also a pervert on one of the flights would have been funny... sex in the bathroom? What about a fat woman wanting more peanuts and going wild? My god I could come up with dumb-funny bits right off the top of my head!

Its ok producers.. scoop this one back up and fix it. We will let you... we're not scared to watch it again.

Swept Away (2002)

Not Bad But Crowd-Mind Just Expects Madonna To Be

[25 February 2003]

This movie fails and succeeds on equal levels, but not for the popular reasons you've heard. Madonna is very good. The rest of the cast was not. She gave a very realistic portrayal and has the charisma of an old movie star (she was a mix of Kathrine Hepburn and Marylin Monroe in "Whos That Girl" and its still shocking that it wasn't accepted as a good slap-stick comedy). Here she could have easily put Grace Kelly to shame, had she had a good director. This movie should have been remade but not by Guy Richie... he did not go into the sexual detail on the island that was needed and he hacked the cast out of the boat scenes and he wrote Madonna's character too harsh at the beginning. The ending is heartbreaking and fitting but it ends too fast and we dont feel that the characters are actually "in-love".

I would go so far as to say the best thing about this movie is Madonna. The sets and her performance are the only 2 real good things about it. She has never really been a bad actress, but she relies on proving herself too much rather than doing what she is best at, comedy. The scene with her inside the boat where she is drunk is played to perfection. If we look at her career as an actress as a whole we can see she has had more good performances than bad.... A League Of Their Own, Dick Tracy, Evita, Desperately Seeking Susan- all great!

Anyway "Swept Away" never even got pushed at the box office... the failure of this movie is Guy Richie's fault and he makes Madonna look bad only because no one actually got to see this film. It all has to do with crowd-mind and unfortunately everyone is under the impression that Madonna is not a good actress... but keep in mind thats what everyone thought about Monroe till it was already too late.

Anguish (1987)

Excellent Psychological Film

[19 April 2002]

Undoubtably one of the scariest and under-raved horror films of all time. Zelda Rubinstein is unforgettable, and if u liked her in the Poltergeist films she is even more stellar here. Known to horror buffs as the all-time movie within a movie... but its psychological mind-warp scene is as tense as it gets. The under-tones of the snails and doves contribute highly to the paranoia. A re-release definitely should be in order; this film deserves a second look by all. Anyone who has extreme phobia of "anything" to do with harm to the eyes- beware! Unfortunate that most mark this off as a "gore-fest" when its anything but. It is a brilliant study of the mind, and will blow you away with its oddity.

Felicity (1998–2002)

One Of The Most Beautiful And Under-Rated Gems Of Television

[10/10 · 17 February 2002]

Simply put, this is one of the best TV shows in recent memory. Ever since its debut "Felicity" has had everything going for it. Perfect characters, lead by the amazing Keri Russell & supported by a string of excellence (Amanda Foreman as Megan is hilarious), and a beautiful coherent story of the challenges and choices of youth. Critics have never seized to rave of "Felicity" either. Unfortunately, it was never truly discovered by the public. With a continuous rise and fall from fame like a rollercoaster. Finally confirmed its non-staying power when the WB decided upon a brave and somewhat stupid move- the notorious cutting of Felicity's hair. A stupid reason for the public to stop watching, but they did (not even paying attention to the symbolism it was meant for). However it almost made it back, untill the WB chased its hazy followers away by re-placing it in a competitive Sunday time slot. It remained on the air after being switched and salvaged by the wind of being behind "Dawsons Creek" (a much lesser show, leaving to wonder why the public picks such slop to watch like "Buffy The Vampire Slayer" and the alway over-rated "Ally McBeal", pushing them into fame). A campaign held "Felicity" up for a yet another season. But despite of a romantic and ever-surprising story its viewers remained just above 3 million (seems like allot but is really not). Not helped by the exit of creator JJ Abrams (he went on to create and uplift his career with "Alias", with another new praised lead actress, leaving Keri and "Felicity" in the dust, still remaining better, but go figure) so the WB saw $$$ signs going out the window and decided to hack it from letting "Felicity" go over her 4 year College run. But The WB can't be downed so much, it was the sole reason "Felicity" has thankfully stayed on despite lack-luster ratings. They too, as few of us viewers had the honor to see its potential. But I can't help but wish it wouldn't go anywhere. If any show has ever had true HEART its "Felicity". Its truly a diamond in the rough. An A+ and 10 all the way, and this coming from a true critic as well.

Lisa Picard Is Famous (2000)

Kai Hamilton Is Famous!

[6 February 2002]

"Lisa Picard Is Famous" is a mock-umentary about, the struggle and the sacrifices one makes to get to fame. This of coarse is taken with all comic-fun otherwise it would be a worthless film. Laura Kirk is perfectly fit as Lisa Picard, and Sandra Bullock shows up in an awkward slightly wasted scene thats nevertheless a nice touch. The film is taken with such stupid slapstick that it is hard not to laugh even if it is mostly predictable. One of the main focuses is the friendship between Lisa and Tate and how it is nearly terminated, done comically well, hits a little too close to home than one would expect from this kind of film. LPIF is not really breaking any new ground, its just fun, not to mention it has a cool movie title.. try saying it a few times to people.. it makes you seem like you really "know" movies with quoting such a little known farce! **Attention All Aspiring Actors**... if this film teaches you one thing... its that most of you really should re-evaluate yourself, give it up to save heartache, or (to put it boldly) admit to yourself that you really don't have what it takes... After all it is truly a shot in the dark, even if there is a little "Lisa Picard" in all of us.

It's Alive (1974)

Once You've Seen The Box Cover... You'll be Hooked...

[14 September 2001]

Extremely unbelievable even from the box cover. But never-the-less if you are the kind of person who surfs the cheap horror movie isles on a regular basis, you will end up renting this movie sooner or later, guaranteed. "It's Alive!" plays like a college students amateur video, but a good one. It has became a cult-classic over the years. One that spawned 2 sequels. "It's Alive!" is one of those rare cheap horror movies that isn't as stupid as it sounds, and somehow successfully gears itself toward an adult audience. But too often shoots for character emotions when all is desired is pure terror. It does generate a few good eerie memorable scenes, such as the beginning hospital scene and the red lite tunnel scene at the end. Both of which still could have been better. The worse involve an over-dressed-for-the-scene girl in go-go boots getting attacked, and a dreadful milkman scene that veers too close toward stupidity. The biggest praise of the film is not letting the killer-baby be seen up-close often. This of coarse makes the latex doll seem more realistic and scary. It is played off well, even if they never took advantage of a "could have been" absolute gross-out scene near the end that would have sent us jumping out of our seats. This movie is one of those AM-Popcorn-Party movies where you sit crowded around the TV in the dark and make it scarier than it really is. But it is hard to forget that babies horrid ululated screech... even if you try!

Paper Moon (1973)

Brilliant!

[10/10 · 16 August 2001]

Paper Moon surprised me, easily breaking its way into one of my favorite movies ever. By the same director of the classic "The Last Picture Show".. Paper Moon is better. Both are set in Black and White... slyly giving the films a warm and inviting tone that often "real" old movies have. "Paper Moon" is fun and involving, it is obvious that alot of detail was worked on to bring this movie its charm.

Now about Tantum O'Neal, she not only steals the entire movie, she got an oscar for doing so.. as questionable as it might sound to give a supporting Oscar to a "Lead" role... the Academy obviously knew she had no chance at winning a deserved award only being a child. Shes not only famous for being the youngest Oscar Winner, but as started the trend for "Supporting Actresses" Career's to fade fast once winning their award. Tantum has clearly never been as good in any film, probably because everyone expected her to be just as great, since her leap from Child Star into Adult Star. It was reported that the director reshot her scenes for this movie repeativly for this movie untill he got just the right reactions from Tantum. If anyone got an award for anything else its her for working so hard... and think about how hard it has to be for a child's attention span. Tantum O'Neal sparkles through every scene, even if sometimes you can tell which were reshot (near the beginning).

"Paper Moon" is very funny, powered by the casting of the two O'Neals both being related. M. Kahn is funny too in a somewhat slight role. "Paper Moon" is going to be a classic if it isn't already (keep in mind its only from the 70's). It's Brilliantly made to make you feel the "love" without it actually being said. Great through-out, never a low point, Entertainment at its highest!

Legally Blonde (2001)

Bend... And SNAP!

[11 August 2001]

Am I the only one that realizes that the person that wrote this movie, meant for it to be a sequel to the movie "Clueless"? Obviously they couldn't get Alicia Silverstone to reprise her role (I've always thought they should make a "Clueless 2" but producers waste their time backing sequels to such stupid movies like "Scary Movie") or producers thought it was too long of a wait so they rearranged the screenplay a bit, and poof! Another "new" movie about an over-obsessed glamour-girl trying to get her man back... and thats it right, nothing really new..? Wrong. "Legally Blond" is creative and fun! Reese Witherspoon (always a great actress) sure gives Alicia Silverstone (also a good actress whom needs another good movie before she is left forgotten) a run for her money as Best Young-Female-Ditz-In-A-Glamour-Girl-Role. This movie is a breath of fresh air... for just when you thought there wasn't anymore just plain "fun" movies. Lots of humor but there are some very funny parts... everything is to like about this movie... (even if the ending is questionable as to whether it could have been a little less obvious)But "Hey!" It wasn't meant as Academy Award Calaber... Even if Reese deserves praise for doing a complete turn-around from "American Psycho". (ICK!) Just remember... BEND.. AND SNAP!!!

Bette (2000–2001)

Attractive and Fun Show, But Does It Have The Staying-Power?

[23 November 2000]

Very likable TV-series! It is great to see Bette Midler on a regular basis. She has the comic ability to have her own TV-series and it shows. The first few shows were doubtful, but after you get in the flow of things you adjust to it. The on-going joke about Sally Field winning Best Actress in "Norma Rae", over Bette for "The Rose"; will have you rolling on the floor. But unfortunately it will be thrown up against the show in a negative way, if it is kept up. The theme song to the show, "Nobody Else But You" is spectacular, it deserves as much radio play as possible (it's nice to dream). Oddly enough, as it may seem "Bette" seems to get better and better with each show. It is blossoming into attractive new ground for it's always-brilliant star. Unfortunately this show also has the making of a has-been, instant-canceller (let's hope not). Which definitely would not be attractive for Bette's on-the-verge career. But lets focus on the good thing, It's here for now. I urge you to take an interest in this good-natured show. Let's face it we are in desperate need of some new variety out there on the TV, and this is definitely it!

The Perfect Storm (2000)

An Unfortunate Misfire- With An Obvious Special Effects Hype

[23 November 2000]

Yet another film that merely received such wild attention only because of the way the special effects translated onto "the big screen". This is not a bad movie, however it suffers from compiling several stories on top of one another, because its sure of itself that just the main one can't hold-up alone. Each your suppose to get involved in, which doesn't work, and you are just sitting there wondering why they hooked these together (possibly because use-to-be big star Karen Allen signed on at the last minute and the film tried to showcase her...?) or your either so stunned by the special effects that you don't notice (which is what they had hoped). "The Perfect Storm" is suspenseful, but even though it is based on a true story- it seems far-fetched that anyone could be so stupid and self-centered to risk the lives of others in the middle of a hurricane (duh). Then possibly the films weakest point is the end, where it predictively kills it's lead characters and tries to pawn it off on us in a heroic fashion (I found myself laughing at the pointless eulogy scene). Nicely filmed and a nice try, but strictly for those of you whom engage in showing off your Home Surround-Sound.

Heartsong (1995)

A Dolly Original, From The Heart...

[23 November 2000]

A film made for a DollyWood Show Attraction. It is nicely filmed and Dolly makes it all worth-while. You follow a short journey, through song, of Dolly's life and the people of "The Great Smoky Mountain's". If you have a passionate love for Dolly (as I do) you can't escape this one without a tear or two. "Heartsong" is shown in a building at DollyWood, where you sit and watch it on a big screen. The way the room comes alive (literally) while you are sitting there (I won't give it away) is something special. The park attraction sets out to make your feel like you are in the film, and it succeeds. The only complaint I have is that it is too short, "HeartSong" could have easily of been longer. But it is still good just the same. I recommend you don't see it unless you are at Dollywood, so you can experience it the right way.

North by Northwest (1959)

Top-Drawer Hitchcock

[23 November 2000]

One of Hitchcock's best! Much better than others like "Rear Window". This movie is spectacular! Film-making at it's best, with some of the most memorable moments ever caught on screen. So many wish they would never stop. It is suspenseful, romantic, and even with light touches of humor. "North By Northwest" is a classic, ranks up there on the "best movie's ever" list. If you haven't yet seen this movie, watch it and get caught up in it's magnificent rollercoaster-ride of storytelling. *The direct ending is my favorite part of this movie, showcasing once again how Hitchcock can surprise us in even the most gleeful circumstances. It will leave you smiling.

Get Real (1998)

Surprisingly Good Movie...

[22 November 2000]

Excellent look at the life of gay teenagers. This movie is surprisingly well-made, and offers an acceptable story, unlike most movies of this genre that go overboard at punching gay-pride. This movie doesn't, it sticks to the story, as though you are literally watching someone's life take place (as all movies should), and doesn't force you to get involved in what you may or may not believe in. "Get Real" is very funny, and even touching. Well acted, especially Charlotte Brittain (Linda) who is terrific!

Run Lola Run (1998)

A 10!

[10/10 · 18 November 2000]

This is a brilliant, very flashy movie. "Run Lola Run" is flawless and simple, not being overbearing like most films today that try way too hard. It is strangely reminiscent of "The Red Balloon", but of coarse much more adult oriented. Movies like this can't help but be loved. At first, I was turned off by the fact that it had subtitles (not being the biggest Foreign Film fan there is) but upon watching it I found it's presence alluring, and I wouldn't of had it Americanized for anything. "Run Lola Run" definitely beats out most Academy Award Nominees these days, but as expected it was overlooked. Watch this action-packed masterpiece, and keep note of the interesting way that while Lola is racing through the streets, you get to see quickly into several strangers lives along the way. That is something I always wanted to see on film, and it is found here.

The Straight Story (1999)

Touches The Heart

[10 October 2000]

Simple movie, featuring Richard Farnsworth in an amazing performance, as a old man who travels a long distance on a lawn-mower to get to his brother who had a stroke. This true story applied to film- keeps a steady and head-strong beat. It is enjoyable to watch and brilliantly done in a kind of stretched-out fashion. The characters met along the way, can easily be applied to real life. People we meet each day, even if just for a second and never really knowing why, if we will see them again, or what we may have done for them with just a few simple words. This crystal-clear movie touches the heart and takes you to places rarely seen on film these days.

Carnival of Souls (1962)

Haunting Masterpiece!

[5 October 2000]

"Carnival of Souls" is about a woman who emerges from a very bad car accident alive. She is tormented with haunting images and an unusual longing to visit a mysterious long shut-down theme park. Soon realizes she is a sole survivor who is caught in between two worlds- the living and the dead. Extremely provocative- this film was once shunned off and finally reaching some of the attention it deserves (if you over-look the fact that it is still in the cheap $5.00 K-Mart Halloween Movie Specials section, and the fact that at one point it's name was unsuccessfully and stupidly changed to "Corridors of Evil", thankfully its now back to normal). "Carnival of Souls" is unique, with a end that is truely terrifying. Only hampered slightly by its lack of low budget. However its good to see that it doesn't have to take Special Effects to send genuine chills up your spine. But If only people could have really discovered this film sooner. Then just maybe we could have seen more of this style from the brilliant mind of "Carnival of Soul"'s director. WARNING: This movie only goes over truly well if you are an extreme open-minded Horror-buff... Otherwise its a toss-up.

Death on the Nile (1978)

Surprisingly Excellent Movie...

[30 September 2000]

I watched this and "Murder On The Orient Express" both, nearly back to back, and found this movie to be the superior one. Most critics have thought "Murder On The Orient Express is better, but it is not in the same class. "Death on The Nile" has great characters, which is what makes it not so ordinary. Angela Lansbury is the stand-out, and it is rather peculiar as to why the "Academy Awards" over-looked her for a Best Supporting Actress nod. Next in-line comes Mia Farrow, who turns in a unusual and shocking performance as an woman in love turned evil. Then not far behind (at all) comes Bette Davis. I found I was rather excited to see her on film in a not-so-drab role like she had been playing near the end of her career. She got to sort of sink her teeth into an actual good character (even if she wasn't seen in this film "enough")- playing a mysterious old woman who has an obsession for exotic jewels. The film's death sequences seemed greatly planned, and coordinated well with the story- one of which remains on Agatha Christy's best list. Check this movie out, you will be surprised at how good it really is and how its no where near as boring as other too-complex mystery movies (AKA: Murder On The Orient Express).

The Cell (2000)

One Wild Movie, One Creative Movie, One Scary Movie... One Of The Best Movies Of The Year!

[10/10 · 24 August 2000]

I don't take the saying "Best Movie Of The Year" lightly, at all. Therefore I know I rate each movie fairly, and YOU as a viewer of all these comments can trust my opinion as to being more true than most others that defer. Anyway, setting aside all the stupidity from uncreative people commenting about this movie you will read on here, This is one of the best movies of the year, period. It acts with a nightmarish theme, which causes most of the people to miss the whole point that it is not just the typical scary movies that have been coming out recently, rather the reality parts in the film and the dream sequences each being as scary as the other. It goes to show you truth, and how some peoples morbid minds can attract as much hell as an nightmare could induce. This film is much better than "Silence Of The Lambs", where as it goes beyond just plain killings and actually into the killers mind, like a sort of playland. The story was written with such creativity, kind of like what harsh message a poet would want to put across the screen, and the film is shot with such wild camera angles that it reminds you of Hitchcock. Oh, yeah and the acting is good too (incase you were wondering, Lopez is exCELLent as well). It is good to see movies with a more broader theme making their way into our generation, it goes to show you we may be allowed to view things a little bit deeper and a little bit further if we allow ourselves, wither it be nice or grim. It's just sad some people have to ruin it, by automatically knowing they aren't going to like such a movie before they go see it and then come babble on here about how they basically... just couldn't take such an eye-filling, wild, imaginative... hmmmm Masterpiece, should sum it up real nicely! By all means Don't Miss This One!

Little Voice (1998)

Little Voice Has A Big Heart!

[3 August 2000]

A very unusual little film. Brenda Blethyn is great as the fast talking mother of the shy girl LV, who was a extraordinary abiltiy to sing. The film is paced well, which is surprising considering most plays into movies aren't, however what is striking about it is the same thing that takes it on the down side, it wraps itself up too quick. We don't truely get to understand LV's emotions, which hampers what could of been a near spotless film. Little Voice goes along the theme "If you love something, set it free, if it comes back to you- its yours, if it doesn't it never was." A saying I have always admired and I am personally glad it weaved into this film in an obvious manor or LV being the bird from the cage. This film has "Critic Praise" stamped all over it.. which is actually irritating, because it is so obvious... like other films ("Secrets and Lies" and "Shine", just to name a few).. that for some reason you always seem to put off seeing, for that reason. But don't single out this one especially, it is a nice look at something different and it is heart warming to say the least!

Square Dance (1987)

Square Dance Is Lovely

[3 August 2000]

Square Dance, a near unknown film (probably because it is violentless) is actually a nice feel-good movie. The best thing about this movie is the acting, Lowe especially... in a enduring performance. Noted mainly because of Ryder's first film, whom is also great (as usual). The only bad thing about this film is what can be expected... it is rather slow at times, and yet still seems to leave loose ends. But it is very much rewarding with a nice ending and notable symbolism of the actual square dances, which leads Ryder back home.

American Beauty (1999)

American Invincible!

[10/10 · 2 August 2000]

American Beauty is a complete masterpiece! Finally the Academy Award has gotten it right, now 3 years in a row all my picks have won Best Picture of the year, and rightly so. Beauty's story was very well done with a mixture of black comedy and real drama. The lighting, also magnificent, helps the storys grimish atmosphere. Acting, top-notch... never before has Benning been so wonderful and Spacey finally getting the attention he deserves! American Beauty will leave you in a state of wonder... it makes you think, for yourself. However this movie is not for some people, particularly the ones who don't look further than the surface of anything. I know the people I went with in the theater to see this, near hated it... and I came out the complete opposite. But for the most part I am glad everyone in movies is having a more open mind. American Beauty is magical, deeply moving, and poetic... never before have red rose petals meant as much, to anything, as they have here... give this one a shot!

The Next Best Thing (2000)

I Wouldn't Call It The "Best".. But It Deserves A Look

[7/10 · 17 June 2000]

The Next Best Thing, was on my most highly anticipated movies list. However it sadly did not live up to my expectations. With a story we have heard many times before (except for an all too obvious punch at gay pride), and a actress/singer no one would except if their life was being threatened (why, I don't know)... TNBT just never picked up any momentum. Throwing itself back and forth from what could of been a powerful movie, to a lush courtroom drama and ending up with nearly no meat for its veiwers to chew on. However- Madonna, (looking beautiful as ever) in a part not given much depth, not by acting but by script, and Rupert, who held the movie his way surprisingly well enough, actually make for a stunning movie duo. On a rather off the subject note- Madonna needs to be given a chance, she has the talent to be an great actress! Look at the changeable emotions in her charecters... (mainly seen in Evita, Dick Tracy, and Desperately Seeking Susan). Somewhere, and somehow for unapt reasons she got a bad acting nod pinned on her, when it is quite obviouse this girl has power and glamour. However- One should not throw away something they have worked so hard for in the past (singing), for one movie for a complete year, and it obviously not going to be respected even if it were good or bad. The Next Best Thing, was not a bad movie, but it was not a great movie either, I would watch it again, because I can tell it is one of those movies you "have to" watch again to get more out of. This movie resolves well, and does have a few sparkling, notable moments (and contrary to what most think.. the Funeral scene was well done, and the song "American Pie" is kind of like a metaphor in the movie and works well attached). Give TNBT a look if you like those harmless, soft, engaging movies or if you are a fan of Madonna's... but if you are not don't stray away her image oddly enough is believable as someone else.. and lets face it that "really" is the only reason none of you would say you didn't want to see it. Be fair.

Pink Flamingos (1972)

Pink Flamingos Is Too Much...

[3 April 2000]

Pink Flamingos is a vile movie. Not only does it deserve a deffinate X rating... But it shimmies it around with pride! What comes over someone's mind to make such a movie is beyond me. The only thing good this movie shows anyone is what this world is coming too... or rather where it (saddly) has already been. I have find it hard to say I like something that is a little over the line in the past.. but have I have... but this takes the cake (so to speak). I can't say that eveyone won't dislike it nor can I say that everyone will like it... but what I can say is that I would honestly question my humanity after watching this movie.. if I liked it. Sure... 'it is' just a movie.. but there is a place and time in life when we must take a stand... and if this movie 'does' do anything it shows us that. How is having sex with a chicken, eating people alive, incest, and pornography entertaining? That I don't know... Saddly I honestly can't say that this movie doesn't strike some curiosity.. but I asure you that that is all that it does. Pink Flamingos has a deffinate unforgettable ending... that you wish you could forget... which you probably have already heard about. Pink Flamingos is not well made or will it ever be a 'true' classic... I acually sit down wondered what would come out when writing this review.. its a good thing I did, so I too can understand why I couldn't or rather shouldn't like this film.....

House on Haunted Hill (1999)

Walk out about 15 minutes before the end....

[31 October 1999]

Truthfully, I didn't want to see this movie, and at first I didn't think it would turn in much interest... But, the backdrop of the Insane Asylume and the history beyhind it acually worked well. However, It is too bad the movie resorted in a horrible ending that seemed so thrown together that when you saw what was coming you just sit back and waited for the credits to roll so that you could leave... very sad when a movie makes you do this...

The Impact the sequances of the flash-backs and the 'one' scene showing the messed up nurse was a plus and it was very regretful that we were left waiting on more of the 'real' scarey stuff to happen.. not shooting people with guns or a end villan of a spirit that almost 'never' works...

The charecters were not worthy of much attention, with their predictable lines and actions... and the annoying black guy... we knew would live after grabing the butt of the girl the one scene that was totally unessasary one in which we also knew would live... It just seems you can pick them out these days... someone needs to get a clue and go back to the over-hyped but worthy horror charecters in 'Psycho'..charecters you that you can never tell are going to live or die... OR.. why not have the house win for once?.... why not kill them all? why waste our time wondering if a slut girl who is just after the money is going to survive to kill them all or not?....

The movie 'is' about a haunted house, and it truely makes you mad when the people making this revolve more on making the charecters likeable rather than the true horror.. and a story-line which really could have been good.. but didn't follow through.... we all would have been truely more terrified of seeing more scenes of the wacked over evil nurses and doctors... those weird looking things in the tanks coming to life.... an old wheel-chair chasing someone down a dark hallway... or acually seeing someone end up dieing in the vate of blood....

Bottom-line and advise is... the ending was terrible.. which saddly was to be expected... and to change such as this from happening again... how about getting an audiance to view it ahead of time and litterally have them tell what is wrong with it and how it could change.. and THEN go back and re-shoot it.. it would be better to have a good movie come out than a thrown together one... that you could have easily expected more out of...

'House On Haunted Hill' (the remake) is over all not recommended... mainly at fault for its stupidity for going the wrong way at the end, however none of it is a prize to be won anyway... Hey movie-making people... you brought it on yourself... Kill them all next time... the old fashioned way....