bama1111 Reviews

Deadly Misconduct (2021 TV Movie)

Is she stupid or naive?

[3/10 · 17 June 2021]

I honestly named the killer in the first 10 minutes, possibly less. I have, over the years, seen some very credible Lifetime movies but this may be the worst I have ever seen.

The story is incredibly unbelievable and the main character has to be either very stupid or very naive. There are at least a half a dozen times I said "call 911".... and, of course, she didn't. And, according to the story line, she has never lost a case.

As for the other story thread, another "call 911" situation, she treats it as no big deal, even though it can involve a danger to someone close to her, as well as she, herself.

I blame my criticism on the script and I always finish movies I have started. That said, I came close to shutting this one down. If the story is too hard to take seriously, the rest of the viewing experience is bound to suffer.

Mulan (2020)

Depends on what you are looking for...

[10/10 · 30 March 2021]

I had never seen the animated version so I could not use that one to judge this one. But, I never do that anyway so it's a moot point. I found the movie totally enjoyable which, when it comes down to it, is what really counts. I seldom pay attention to music in a movie and, to be honest, was unaware that, unlike the animated version, there were no songs in the movie. To date, I have watched the movie 5 times, and will continue to enjoy it in the future. And, I would never tell anyone they should, or should not, watch it.

Balthazar (2018–2023)

IMO, Great show but Balthazar is an insufferable ass

[8/10 · 30 June 2020]

I loved everything about this series but the main character. Balthazar (Tomer Sisley) is great at the technical aspects of his work but his oversized ego is a bit TOO much for me. I mean asking your partner to compliment your work and sharing your fountain of useless (to the average person) knowledge instead of just saying what needs to be said. Yeah, the guy has some serious emotional problems but his partner, Police Inspector Hélène Bach (Hélène de Fougerolles) has personal problems of her own but she doesn't need to draw attention to herself by showing off a new pair of shoes or driving an airboat to a crime scene. The stories are interesting and timely and the conversations with the dead in the morgue offer insight and backstory into both the crimes and Balthazar himself. Of course, Balthazar's ego won't allow him to listen to the advice he's receiving regarding his own personal relationship with the smart and funny Lise (Pauline Cheviller). I'm not sure if there will be a series 3 so I may never know if my understanding of the ending of Episode 16 is saying what I think it is.

I Saw the Devil (2010)

Unsettling, to say the least, but intriguing

[7/10 · 23 January 2020]

I'm a fan of serial killer movies, books etc. but I has a few problems with this movie that kept me from going to 8 stars. Given the severe beatings, to the head, that are delivered, it's hard to imagine any of the victims survived them. I was also surprised that the detective never seemed to give any thought to those people victimized by the killer after the detective kept letting him go. There were at least a half dozen of them. In my mind. And, when the police finally became aware of what the detective was doing, they didn't seem to care. Except for a brief outburst by the police chief. I was surprised by the cannibal element that was so lightly touched on that it probably could have been omitted without hurting the story.

The Chaperone (2018)

It's not about Louise Brooks in her Hollywood years

[8/10 · 18 December 2019]

The story takes place when the teenage Louise Brooks (Haley Lu Richardson) leaves Wichita for New York City. She has been accepted to a major dancing academy and has no doubt that she'll be asked to join their dancing troupe. She is, as required at the time, accompanied by a chaperone, Norma Carlisle (Elizabeth McGovern). The spirited Louise and the proper Norma seem to have little in common other than wanting to be in New York City. But we soon learn that there is more to Norma than meets the eye. A couple of surprises explain Norma's earlier behavior in her interactions with her husband (Campbell Scott) as well as her later behavior as the story progresses. McGovern and Richardson share most of the screen time along with some brief appearances by Amanda Otto, Blythe Danner and Géza Röhrig. I continue to be impressed with Richardson who came to my attention, in 2016, in Split and The Edge Of Seventeen.

The Beach Bum (2019)

A disappointing mess...

[2/10 · 15 August 2019]

There are a number of actors whose work I will watch despite any bad reviews or other negative criticism. Matthew McConaughey is one of them. That approach inevitably leads to the occasional disappointment. This is my most recent disappointment in that regard. McConaughey's character is like the Mr. Hyde half of the stoner type characters he has often played. His ex-wife likes what he used to be, as does his daughter. Instead of criticizing his behavior, they seem to be waiting for him to straighten himself out. But, a man who comes to his daughter's wedding loaded and makes an entrance by pushing a wheelchair-bound woman into the pool does not seem like someone trying to change their ways. But, no one seems to mind. Sadly, there are some who find him funny and their enjoyment of his deeds serves to encourage his behavior.

I never laughed, even once, throughout the movie. Though, I did groan a few times. The scene on the dolphin boat was pointless and made even worse by having two children as a part of the group in the scene. The twist near the close of the movie seemed obvious half-way through and the actual ending did not make sense to me, at all. Particularly considering the lifestyle he pursued.

I'm sure his next film, The Genlemen (2020), will have more to offer.

Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night (1988 TV Special)

An excellent musical treat

[10/10 · 25 November 2006]

Back in the early 60s, being attractive was almost a requirement for success in the R&R recording field. People like Fabian became big stars regardless of the fact that he couldn't sing. But Roy Orbison, thick horned rimmed glasses, double chin and all, was a great example that if you could make good music you could be successful. After his early success, in the 60's, he disappeared from the music charts although he continued to tour. In the 80s he returned to the forefront of the musical scene and this concert is a perfect example that he had not lost a step nor had he lost that magical voice. His accompanying players are all fans of his music as well as outstanding musicians in their own right. And, how bad can it be having Bonnie Raitt, k.d. Lang & Jennifer Warnes as your backup singers.

If you liked this you should check out his "In Dreams" video which is more biographical. It talks about his early days at Sun Records with Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis, his success in the 60s, his great receptions by his British fans and his resurgence in the 80s and his induction into the R&R Hall Of Fame by Bruce Springsteen.

No Good Deed (2002)

I Loved The Music Sequence

[17 January 2004]

I did enjoy this movie. Samuel L. Jackson, Stellan Starsgard, Doug Hutchinson and Milla Jovovich... That's not bad company. Being a hopeless romantic, I really enjoyed the scene that I describe below.

Possibly A Spoiler

When Milla Jovovich's character goes to Sam Jackson's apartment and finds his cello, and brings it back, then plays piano to his cello...and then, on his word, him playing the cello, while she followed his hands, well, that was worth the rest of the movie for me. Probably not very realistic but, certainly, enjoyable. Kudos to Bob Rafelson, a directing icon.

Heaven (I) (2002)

Another great performance by Cate The Great

[10/10 · 20 September 2003]

A believer in coincidence might say that it could be a coincidence that every movie I've seen involving Cate Blanchett has been very, very enjoyable. I, on the other hand, consider it to be a matter of her great performances [along with those of her fellow actors, of course]. But she is the one common denominator. Whether it be drama, comedy, period pieces or whatever, you can always count on an outstanding performance from this lady. And Heaven is no exception. I can't quite label her the "Best Actress" of her generation but she's certainly in the top 3, in my opinion. And, as is usually the case, a fine performance by Giovanni Ribisi [her co-star in another movie, The Gift]. I rated this movie as a 10. Check it out and see if you agree and, even if you don't, you won't be disappointed.

Innocence (2000)

A great story and especially a great love story

[10/10 · 9 August 2003]

Long ago I realized that American films are not the only game in town. And since the advent of cable and movie rentals I have the opportunity to see a wider selection of movies from all over the world. I have to say that when watching movies from Australia I am never disappointed. Several examples of movies I've seen this year include Rabbit-Proof Fence and Lantana. And now this wonderful gem of a movie. Terrific performances [particularly by Julia Blake] and a lovely and loving story combine to make this a beautiful movie experience.

Practical Magic (1998)

Do you believe in magic?

[8/10 · 9 August 2003]

Dianne Wiest, Stockard Channing, Micole Kidman & Sandra Bullock. When it comes to acting we're not talking about chopped liver here. I saw this movie when it was first released and thoroughly enjoyed it. Since then, I have read every book by Alice Hoffman and loved all of them. She is a storyteller without peer who creates wonderful characters. The stories often go beyond the ordinary and into the magical but are always believable because you become so caught up in the characters that anything becomes possible.

I would like to see more of her novels brought to the big screen but, to date, this is the only one. Give yourself a treat and read another of her stories because the imagination is a wonderful theater too. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Place Vendôme (1998)

Catherine Deneuve is a Goddess

[8/10 · 8 August 2003]

The movie was fine. Only in French films do beautiful women have sex with ordinary looking guys. Having said that, in the 50 years I have been watching movies there has never been a more beautiful actress than Catherine Deneuve. And, in addition to her incredible beauty, she is a wonderful actress. So, even if the movie doesn't appeal to you, you can always appreciate a true beauty. Oh yes, by the way, I did enjoy the movie, too.

The Crime of Padre Amaro (2002)

A cinematic fiesta and a definite 10!

[10/10 · 7 August 2003]

Having been born and raised a Catholic [as well as having a brother who is a priest] I would have to say that if this movie is, in any way, controversial, it would have to seem that way to the hypocrites who know, but refuse to acknowledge, that these things happen to, and with, people and priests in the Catholic church. That being said, this is a sad and beautiful movie. Gail Garcia Bernal and Ana Claudia Talancon as Father Amaro and Amelia give wonderful performances as do all of the actors.

In addition to the primary roles there are several interesting characters including [in my opinion, one of the best] the retarded daughter of the sexton. Upon meeting Father Amaro she takes his hand and starts to pull it down inside her dress showing us that inside, as well as outside, she is a woman. Then later in the movie, as she hears what's going on in the next room, you can see and feel her frustration that it can't be her in there.

Give yourself a cinematic fiesta and see this movie. If you watch it based on my recommendation and you don't like it you can always email me and tell me so.

Narc (2002)

Excellent

[10/10 · 6 August 2003]

This is one of the best movies, of any genre, to come along in the last few years. Great story and performances and [as I always enjoy] a great "twist" at the end. If you saw that coming you must have watched all the "extras" on the DVD where you actually see it happen. [ Note to myself: I really need to start watching the movies first, and then the extras.] In any case, there are several very interesting "making of" featurettes on the DVD which gives you a greater appreciation for the finished product and the people [especially the Director] involved in the making of the movie. I hope that my "10" will bring up the average enough to entice those who look for things like that [the numbers] to discover this gem of a movie.

Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002)

A Wonderful Movie

[10/10 · 29 June 2003]

Earlier this year I saw a "special" about the films of Philip Noyce which included Rabbit-Proof Fence. I have been waiting for it's appearance on DVD and I have finally seen it. It is everything I had hoped for and more.

As several others have commented, watching the "making of" documentary [one of the extras on the DVD], Along The Rabbit-Proof Fence, is like watching a movie in itself. It shows us the initial process of finding the three remarkable girls and eventually the interaction between them and the director and crew as filming progressed.

As for the film itself, I thought it was wonderful. The fact it was based on a true life event made it even more amazing. As the film, and the girls, progressed I found myself saying, from time to time, "twelve hundred miles". I couldn't imagine doing that under ideal conditions let alone between the ages of 7 and 14 through outback and across desert.. And then, at the end of the movie, you find out that Molly actually did it again several years later, carrying one of her children.

I must say, if this had not been based on real events I don't think I could have "bought" it as a movie. It's hard to believe these events could have really taken place. Knowing differently, I find it awesome. Wonderful performances by all the actors, particularly the 3 girls, and an excellent job by Philip Noyce in telling the story of these remarkable girls, in particular, and of the "Stolen Generation", in general.

Standing in the Shadows of Motown (2002)

Thankfully, they're no longer in the shadows

[10/10 · 17 May 2003]

I have been a Rock/Pop music fan since the 50s and I've always felt that the 60s provided us with the greatest diversity of popular music. The Motown Sound contributed immensely to that era's music. At least as much as, and probably more than, The British Invasion.

I remember seeing the Ebert/Roeper review of this film and it was the first time I ever heard of The Funk Brothers. Finally, I rented the DVD and watched and listened to these men who, to paraphrase a gentleman on the DVD whose name I don't recall, "provided the soundtrack of my life". It is hard to believe that Berry Gordy, or anyone at Motown, never made a public acknowledgement of the contributions made by these outstanding musicians. And it is a further tribute to these men that they appear to bear no ill will for being kept "in the shadows". It's just a shame that all of them didn't live long enough to know that their accomplishments have finally been recognized and appreciated by the music fans.

The musical performances of some of the songs by the 'newer' artists are wonderful. Watching and listening to them interacting with the older musicians allows us to see the respect and admiration they have for these men and for the contributions they made.

And just when I thought that I had seen and heard it all they scrolled a list of the songs [records] these men had provided music for and I was stunned by the volume of hits with which they were involved.

My favorite Motown artists are The Four Tops, Mary Wells & Stevie Wonder and I know that it was not just the music of The Funk Brothers that made their [as well as all the other great artists at Motown] records so good. The songwriters [Holland, Dozier & Holland, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye & Barrett Strong to name a few] provided wonderful lyrics. Anyone who knows Motown music knows the artists and the songwriters and now, finally, we all know the musicians who made up the third key element to this wonderful Motown sound.

The DVD has many extras and I would suggest that anyone who watches the movie should watch all of the extras, too. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Widow of St. Pierre (2000)

This is why I have so many cable movie channels

[10/10 · 6 March 2003]

If you are looking for a movie about love, honor and human decency this is your movie. Unfortunately, there is also jealousy and petty vindictiveness displayed by some characters but they only help enhance the actions of the three main [and some of the lesser] characters in the story. You find yourself forgetting that the prisoner, Neel, has been sentenced to death for murder but, considering this is based on real events, you realize that others, more closely related to the events, had done the same thing. All I can add is just watch the movie and see for yourself. However you feel at the end it will certainly be time well spent. A wonderful movie.

Exotica (1994)

Excellent

[9/10 · 6 March 2003]

I, too, had seen another movie [The Sweet Hereafter] by this director, that I really enjoyed. This movie, like that one, takes what seems like several different stories and, eventually, transforms them into one. When I watch a movie I like to be entertained rather than presented with a series of images that I need to figure out as if I'm taking a quiz. On the other hand, I don't want it to be so simplistic that it becomes boring. And, finally, I like being surprised by plot twists that are not contrived. So this movie, for me, is "just what the doctor ordered". Always interesting, with wonderful performances, it is a movie I highly recommend.

Heartburn (1986)

Oscar winners galore!

[8/10 · 12 February 2003]

When I watch a movie I always find myself looking at the number of Oscar winners, for acting & directing, are in the movie. The Oscar winners could be for performances either prior to or subsequent to their performance in the movie I'm watching. This one features Meryl Streep, Jack Nicholson, Mercedes Ruehl, Maureen Stapleton, Kevin Spacey, Milos Forman [acting not directing] and Mike Nichols. Just goes to show that outstanding actors and directors need a good story and/or script to make a good movie. Although Nora Ephron has been nominated for 3 Oscars for screenplays she has written, this one just didn't do it for me and, from the tone of most of the comments, for many other people. Of course, I'd enjoy watching Streep & Nicholson reading the phonebook.

The Swimmer (1968)

Wonderful Memories Of An Intriguing Movie

[29 October 2000]

I watched this movie today for the first time since I saw it in 1968. I loved it then and I enjoyed it even more now, with the benefit of 32 years of life experience. The big attraction, to me, was the fact that it was a Frank Perry film. Having seen David & Lisa, an earlier Frank and Eleanor Perry film, I assumed I couldn't go wrong. And I didn't. Now, I'm amazed that Burt Lancaster was 55 when this movie was released. I'm also reminded of the wonderful Janice Rule, who was so great in a number of 60's movies. Unfortunately, I don't remember this movie being very popular, at the time. But, I would highly recommend it.

The Last Supper (1995)

Dirty Harry...where are you?

[7/10 · 14 October 2000]

This movie is a "sophisticated"? remake of Magnum Force, just a bit harder to believe. The big difference, in principle, is the victims in Magnum Force had committed crimes for which they were going unpunished, where the victims in this movie were guilty only of having opinions contrary to their so-called "liberal" killers. Liberal = "tolerant of the ideas and behavior of others". Hmmmm, apparently not. What are the chances of 5 out of 5 educated people, living in the same house, being psychopaths? On the other hand, maybe I missed something here. Just one person's opinion.

Almost Famous (2000)

Almost Perfect

[10/10 · 29 September 2000]

Nothing is perfect but this movie comes pretty close. If Cameron Crowe's experience as a young journalist was anything like this movie portrayed he has my eternal envy. Having the opportunity to get "up close and personal" to the rock'n roll gods of the era and everything that goes with that is truly enviable. But to be able to tell the story on the screen, and have so many talented people create so many wonderful performances in the telling is so special. Kate Hudson is so real as Penny Lane, with the dreams and the expectations and the disappointments. When she is on the screen you can't take your eyes off of her. And Patrick Fugit as William Miller, so naive and so in love with the music and the people who perform it. And he's so much his mother's son. And Frances McDormand, Billy Crudup and the rest of this terrific cast enhance this excellent film. I've been a firm believer that you cannot be disappointed by a Rob Reiner film and now I'll add Cameron Crowe to that small list.

Being a child of the 60's I have to say there is nothing that beats the music of that period, but this story is a tribute to everyone who has helped, for better or worse, to make rock 'n roll music what it has become. And that's not just the musicians...it's also, and mostly, the fans who have shown their love for, and appreciation for, and support of, this wonderful creation that, in my humble opinion, enriches our lives.

Whose Life Is It Anyway? (1981)

A Wonderful Movie...

[10/10 · 3 September 2000]

A brilliant performance by Richard Dreyfuss...and wonderful performances by Christine Lahti and John Cassavetes and Bob Balaban and Kenneth McMillan. I've watched this movie a number of times since it came out and it never fails to move me. Since I don't, and never have, worked in a hospital I can only believe that some of the events are a bit far fetched [jamming in the basement and smoking dope, for example] but getting past them, you have a riveting story. A battle for a human life. He wants to be allowed to die and they are determined to keep him alive. There are many wonderful moments, especially the hearing, that express the notion that both/neither is right/wrong. But whatever side you take you can't be disappointed by this moving story and these moving performances. In my opinion, 10/10.

The Man with Two Brains (1983)

Just plain funny....

[9/10 · 1 September 2000]

If you like funny, any kind of funny, watch this movie. I don't think you need to like Steve Martin's humor to enjoy this. Silly, goofy, crazy, sight gags...whatever...I laughed my butt off. To me, Steve Martin is always hilarious but Kathleen Turner, too, is very funny, not to mention sexy. I do think most people will find this movie to be very, very funny.

How to Steal a Million (1966)

Hepburn & O'Toole....a nice combination

[9/10 · 1 September 2000]

Audrey Hepburn is, as always, totally charming. Having the opportunity to watch her makes this movie worthwhile. I've been a big fan of Peter O'Toole for years [My Favorite Year and Creator to name a couple of my favorites] and pairing him with Audrey Hepburn is an inspiration. A "caper" film is a caper film but the interaction of these two adds that something extra to this one. I recommend it highly and rate it 9/10.