derfnella Reviews

Equal Justice (1990–1991)

Another great but short-lived program

[9 July 2000]

My current favorite TV show is "The Practice" created by David Kelley. But another talented person from the Steven Bochco School of Great TV is Thomas Carter who created this pre-cursor to "The Practice." "Equal Justice" told the intertwining stories of lawyers in the District Attorney's office of an unnamed (but highly resembling Philadelphia) NorthEastern US City. It boasted wonderful, gritty writing mixed with just the right amount of humor and pathos. And was beautifully acted by a cast that included Sarah Jessica Parker, Jane Kaczmarek (Malcolm in the Middle), Barry Miller (Fame [the movie]) and Joe Morton, a gifted character actor who has been in numerous TV and movie projects.

Every now and then you can catch the pilot TV movie re-run on local TV. If you happen to see it listed on your local guide, I encourage you to check it out. Unfortunately, it did not get the following it deserved and was cancelled after one season, and that's really too bad. It was one of those shows that everybody says there should be more of on television, yet does not catch the viewers attention.

Can't Stop the Music (1980)

It Takes A Village to Make a Bad Movie

[4 July 2000]

As a retro fan of the Village People, I was truly excited when I got a copy of "Can't Stop The Music" last year. I had not seen it in a Theatre or on television, but always wanted to. After viewing it, I was simply amazed at how high camp, bad acting, worse writing, and cusp edged disco ditties combined to make a wonderfully enjoyable viewing experience. I have to agree that the attempt to ignore the VP's obvious homosexuality made for some strange cinematic moments. Not to mention the inauspicious acting debut of "Thespian of the Century" Bruce Jenner. The musical numbers, especially "YMCA," "Milk Shake," and "I Love You To Death" are especially fun. And how can you possibly knock the heightened sense of optimism evoked when plan after situation after moment of crisis is instantly solved and executed, all with very big smiles and happy dialogue. And if you really want to have some fun, watch for Steve Guttenburg's ever-changing package in the opening roller skating sequence. Normally, I wouldn't notice this sort of thing, but a friend of mine pointed out that it grows and shrinks and moves and disappears and reappears all in the span of time of about 4 minutes (Mind you this is before Viagra!). I once heard a local film reviewer say it takes as much time and effort to make a bad movie as it does a good one. And it took a Village to make this "so bad, you have to watch it just to see how it turns out" flick. If you're having some guests over, and if drinking will be involved, I highly recommend "Can't Stop The Music." Sing YMCA and let the party begin!!

The Apple (1980)

". . . Take a Bite, and Enjoy!!"

[3 July 2000]

I remember seeing this film on late night television back in the early 80's. I thought it was a strange yet intriguing piece of work and was constantly on the lookout for repeat showings. I did manage to catch it another time in the mid 80's but never again since. For years, I was the only person I knew of that had seen "The Apple," much less heard of it. I wondered if I had imagined the whole crazy thing until I came upon a copy of the soundtrack album in a local record store that specialized in hard to find and obscure music. Finally, some hard evidence that this film existed!! A friend of mine, with whom I co-produce a local public access film review program, prides himself on his ability to get copies of hard to find movies. So I presented him with the ultimate challenge: Get me a copy of "The Apple." His unrelenting persistance paid off and last Fall he presented me with my request. I got it home and popped into my VCR and WOW! The film was just as bizarre and entertaining as I remembered! The costumes! The music! The biblical parallels! Alfie and BeBe! Obviously, everyone who has seen it feels passionately positive or passionately negative. But as for me, everytime I see it, I get nothing but the guiltiest of pleasures. If you're lucky enough to get the opportunity to experience "The Apple" do not hesitate!! If you like shiny outlandish costumes and make-up . . . If you can't live without garish production numbers . . . If limited acting (or abundant overacting) ability enhances your enjoyment of a movie . . . "The Apple" is the one for you! Take a bite and enjoy!!