dePaoli Reviews

This Is England (2006)

Best film of the Berlin Film Festival 2007

[10/10 · 14 February 2007]

I just saw "This Is England" at the Berlin Film Festival where it was screened in the section "Generation 14P". This section is an extension of the former "Kinderfilmfest" for teenagers between 14 and 18 - dealing with more mature issues.

I had no clue about it, just that it would be about skinheads in England and that it takes place in the 80s. I wasn't expecting much, hoping for something like a British version of "American History X" - I got a lot more.

When I left the theater I was absolutely stunned! Cast and script were outstanding. I loved the rough editing and grainy camera style that made the movie look a real 80s flick! And last but not least: the soundtrack is a blast! And coming from a director who used to be part of the real scene, it might be the most authentic picture about skinheads ever made.

Although it didn't get as much attention as the Hollywood films that had their premiere at the Berlinale Palast, it's a lot stronger than almost all the films in competition.

I hope it will make its way the movies and not end up as a direct-to-video-flick... 10/10

Barry Lyndon (1975)

Worst Kubrick ever

[4/10 · 19 April 2004]

i really wanted to, but i can't find any good aspects about this movie. i did not like any of the main characters and thought the whole film was pretty pointless. it's way too long and starts to get boring after about 20 min. there is no suspense at all.

the music is pretty good, but it only reminded me of clockwork orange, which is a much better movie.

i like kubrick, but i won't give him a good review only because he's considered a genius. this film is a complete waste of time.

Only reason to watch it is the fact that it was shot without any light beside the sun and candles. That's pretty impressive.