minerva-11 Reviews

North & South (2004)

a great adaptation

[10/10 · 24 March 2005]

With "North and South" the BBC has continued its fine tradition of producing great adaptations. Indeed "North and South" is one of the very best the BBC has done, capturing the nuances of the novel perfectly and bringing out the latent eroticism of the book. The only quibble is the way the screenwriter has changed the ending from that of the novel. Although this will irk some, I thought the new ending was in keeping with the story as a whole. The acting throughout is superb, especially from Richard Armitage as the brooding Mr Thornton - he captures exactly the character's pride, brutality, warmth and passion. I think Richard Armitage would be a very good James Bond.

The Birds (1963)

Another Hitchcock masterpiece

[3 August 1999]

This is, for me, one of the most horrifying films of all time, even by Hitchcock's standards. Tippi Hedren turns in a superb performance, portraying the usual "ice-blonde" as a real woman; not just as a model the camera can ogle. Rod Taylor is also very appealing as the suave action man, with that special twinkle-in-the-eye, which only he can do. There are some particularly scary scenes involving "the birds", which is all down to the terrific Hitchcock direction. This is a mesmeric film which will horrify all who watch it.

Singin' in the Rain (1952)

One of the greatest films of all time

[10/10 · 3 August 1999]

This is a sparkling film and the best musical of all time. Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen are masters of musical movies and this is the best of the bunch. The dance numbers are technically perfect and, more importantly, beautiful to watch. Of course it is easy to mention the title routine but no one should forget Donald O'Connor's spectacular "Make 'em Laugh" or the lead trio's "Good Mornin'". The star of the film has to be Jean Hagen, as the high pitched, untalented actress Lina Lamont- but everyone is a stand-out in this gem. The only quibble would be the obligatory Gene Kelly modern ballet number, but over look that, sit back and enjoy the magic.

The Avengers (1998)

Not as bad as you've heard

[9/10 · 29 July 1999]

I shall defend this film vigorously. Alright, so Uma Thurman is rather useless and Ralph Fiennes was not quite the Steed Patrick Mcnee created- but this is no worse than the average Hollywood film and does not deserve to be vilified. Actually, I rather like (it in a wierd English way). Any film that sees Sean Connery dressed as a Teddy Bear cannot be all bad. The sets and art direction are exceptional, as is the soundtrack. So don't be put off , give it a go.

Viva Las Vegas (1964)

Ann-Margret, what a cool woman.

[7/10 · 29 July 1999]

For me this is one of Elvis' best, and all because of his oh-so cool leading lady. The songs are terrific; using some priceless musical banter and really catchy tunes- check out the duet "She Loves Me". And, of course, that amazingly 60s dance number set in the college gymnasium "Lovin' my Baby". Ann-Margret is simply brilliant and there is a real chemistry between herself and the King. Watch this film if you get the opportunity.

The Man with 100 Faces (1938)

Really rather charming

[8/10 · 29 July 1999]

This an early attempt at the gentleman thief idea and it works beautifully. The film offers much elegance, wit and sophistication, just like its two stars. If only Hollywood produced this type of film today.

The Wedding Singer (1998)

The most repugnant and insulting of all romantic comedies.

[1/10 · 22 July 1999]

The premise for this offensive movie is romance and comedy, both of which it seriously lacks. The film somehow became a sleeper-hit probably due to the number of children who went to see it. Why children? Because they find juvenile smut funny and weren't around during the '80s. It is difficult to comprehend how America, usually so obsessed with political correctness, could over-look this film's immense offensiveness and vulgarity, together with its ritual degradation of people who are over- weight or short. We saw this film at a bargain basement price, but we are still reeling from the waste of money.

Titanic (1997)

11 Oscars, but it will never be a great film.

[1/10 · 22 July 1999]

What can you say about a film that believes its own hype? James Cameron, script writer and director, has attempted to tackle many social issues but has failed at every attempt. All English people are either dim or evil; all other nationalities are down-trodden and good. The message of this movie appears to be that money is the root of all evil, however he probably felt very differently when he was given a budget for this turkey. Although the special effects were impressive, I found my jaw dropping not so much at the effects, but at the appalling script and juvenile plot line. This could be renamed "The Poseidon Adventure in frocks" but "The Poseidon Adventure" was much better than this film will ever be. All in all "Titanic" was a giant ego trip for Cameron - one which the Academy fell for hook, line and sinker.

Starship Troopers (1997)

Horrid!Avoid at all costs.

[1/10 · 22 July 1999]

It is very difficult to express how greatly I loathe this film. To start with I thought it was a black comedy, but half-way through I realised it was not. The violence in this film would make even the most blood-thirsty feel ill! Should be re-named "Fascists in Space".

PS. It is nothing like the book by Robert Heinlein.

A Night to Remember (1958)

Superb

[10/10 · 22 July 1999]

This moving,atmospheric and intelligent film is immeasurably better than James Cameron's horribly crass mega-bucks "Titanic". The effects are as convincing as can be, while the acting is uniformly magnificent, with special mention for the always brilliant Kenneth Moore. An air of dignity and honour fills the screen.