hanik_1999 Reviews

Notting Hill (1999)

Love it, love it, love it

[9/10 · 3 October 2006]

Just an incredible movie, inside out. The opening song--"She," by Elvis Costello, for those who are interested--gives me goosebumps every time I hear it; just fits the movie so amazingly well. This is a truly lively, soul-wrenching tale that even the sternest of people will not be able to watch without feeling something. I'm a guy who NEVER cries, and I came very, very close watching this movie. It has joyous ups and heart-wrenching downs...but as in all Curtis films, ends on a brilliantly happy note. Love it. Hugh Grant is gold: quirky, funny, dry, his best performance outside of the comically cruel "About a Boy." And Julia Roberts is spellbinding in her role as Anna Scott...just an amazing match.

I always struggle to pick my favorite movies, but this one makes the top 3 easily. It's just that good. See it no matter what. You won't regret it.

Shark Tale (2004)

Those other reviews are bull; this movie is great!

[9/10 · 14 June 2005]

I have to confess my shock at seeing the 5.9/10 average rating for this movie and overall mediocre reviews. This movie is great! And I'm not a kid, either...I'm 26 years old and thoroughly enjoyed this movie at the age of 25. The soundtrack is unbelievable and fits in seamlessly with the action and comedy of the movie. You really have to hear Mary J. Blige's rendition of Cheryl Lynn's classic disco anthem, "Got to Be Real." Anyway, besides the fantastic soundtrack, every character in this movie matches beautifully with his or her celebrity voice. I particularly enjoyed Will Smith's and Martin Scorcese's characters; brilliantly done. Really, if you're looking for a fun, enjoyable movie that you can laugh and even dance along to, this is the movie for you. Young and old alike should enjoy this. I've seen it 3 times, and always have a good time watching it. Watch it!

Stupidity (2003)

Hilarious at times, dull at others, but always funny

[8/10 · 23 March 2004]

Went to see this movie in San Fran after getting hilarious fliers featuring a really, well, STUPID-looking George W. smiling awkwardly, as only Dubya can. But the movie is not so much about Bush as about, well, stupidity, idiocy, moronism (?) and how they've infected society. We always hear "Sex sells", but this entertaining documentary shows how "Stupid sells" and features some hysterical trailers by the Canadian company that produced it, Trailervision. Kung-Fu Jesus and Pourquoi Pas? (the sequel to...Pourquoi) are shown, and believe me, you will laugh. But the short film (about 75 minutes) also tries to make you think--who'da thunk it in a film basically glamorizing the absence of thought?--about how popular stupidity has become in our culture, arts, and politics. Definitely worth a view, if you can find it. I saw it on 16th & Valencia in San Fran; hopefully it will make its way to New York soon. And check out the trailer of Kung-Fu Jesus on the Trailervision website. No, I don't get a cut by shilling it; my bro and I just found it so friggin' hilarious that you'd be, um, stupid not to see it. Enjoy.

The Crying Game (1992)

A great film, BUT...

[8/10 · 21 April 2003]

...the one "scene" that anybody who has seen the film (or probably heard about/seen parodied on "Ace Ventura") knows I'm talking about, kinda puts a damper on it. I mean, it adds to the film--which really is beautifully made and acted--but what can I say? It's disturbing. I guess it was necessary to the film's plot, though I think it could have been just as good if Dil was just a "normal" female. It's all about the power of love and just what one would do for another in this, the crying game. A great message overall; it really touched me. I would definitely recommend it to anyone, but...just prepare yourself.

Phone Booth (2002)

Excellent

[9/10 · 7 April 2003]

A great movie all around. Very good acting by Colin Farrell and the entire cast. Kiefer did an amazing job as the voice of the stalker. Suspenseful from beginning to end, this movie never lost my interest. The only negative was that the ending came just a bit suddenly, but the FINAL ending was VERY good--no spoilers, but let's just say that I'd say it leaves room for a sequel. Farrell looks to become a major star.

9/10

The Guru (2002)

A great mix of Bollywood & Hollywood!

[20 March 2003]

I saw this movie with a friend and we both LOVED it! The movie gets better and better as time goes on, and by the end you'll be in hysterics! I didn't have high expectations for this movie, but man, did it impress me! Not only that, but the soundtrack is excellent. I recommend this movie to anyone.

9/10