My first Star Wars experience was in the first week of the original (now Episode 4). It was in a grand theatre in San Francisco on a Saturday afternoon with a charged crowd. It was marvelous. Last night/this morning, I saw Episode 3. It was marvelous. But different. Had this one appeared at the same time as Episode 4 so that the impacts were equivalent, then Episode 3 would have won hands down for both technical finesse AND depth, but not fun. Episode 4 was for fun. So Lucas wasn't shooting for fun this time. He told anyone who was listening. He was telling his myth, as he has said for 20 years. Go see the movie to see THIS movie. If you want to see the original Star Wars, rent it or buy it. This episode is crafted to explore how a sweet and earnest boy can become Darth Vader. This is the story teller's job and Lucas has acquitted himself well. Sweet earnest boys (and girls) do become Darth Vaders. That's what episode 3 is about. Lucas has competently woven the threads of the origin myth contained in Episodes 1 and 2 into Episode 4. It was not cheesily done. Go see Episode 3 because it is a well-crafted movie which is part of a myth worth retelling until we internalize it.
Reviews
7 Reviews
Alex & Emma
(2003)
Quality subtle passion
3 July 2003
This is a cerebral movie, OK? Don't expect loud noises and lots of action. It's a sweet love story, gentle and thoughtful. It felt good to watch. I'll see it again and I'll buy it when it's available. I can't say that for much that comes out these days. Kate Hudson is truly delightful.
Loud, wantonly cruel, but almost thoughtful
3 July 2003
This film is another step in a steady progression toward de-humanizing screen violence. There is precious little redemption to be had and a constant message of acceptance of wanton killing. Human feelings on novacaine.
America's Sweethearts
(2001)
Very disappointing
19 August 2001
Ms. Roberts can do better than this. With her body of work including some really good material (Steel Magnolias, Pretty Woman, Erin Brockovich, Step Mom), it is time for her to consider her legacy. America's Sweethearts is not one I'd want on my resume.
It seems the producers fell in love with the image of spoiled, self-centered, overpriced actors kvetching about their hard lives. Yawn. The plot wanders and the messages are confused. The movie isn't funny. We sat in a nearly silent theatre listening to titters of embarrassment rather than the laughter of humor. Save your money - go see Shrek!
It seems the producers fell in love with the image of spoiled, self-centered, overpriced actors kvetching about their hard lives. Yawn. The plot wanders and the messages are confused. The movie isn't funny. We sat in a nearly silent theatre listening to titters of embarrassment rather than the laughter of humor. Save your money - go see Shrek!
The Princess Diaries
(2001)
It's Summer, it's fun, enjoy.
8 August 2001
OK, The Princess Diaries will never make the American Film Institute top 100 (or 1000 probably). It is light-hearted, light-headed Summer escapism where the good guys win.
On a technical level, the movie needs a lot of work - continuity, plausibility, cinematography, etc. But the characters are engaging, the premise tried and true, and the opportunity for follow-up dialog compelling. Lighten up, buy some popcorn, and enjoy.
On a technical level, the movie needs a lot of work - continuity, plausibility, cinematography, etc. But the characters are engaging, the premise tried and true, and the opportunity for follow-up dialog compelling. Lighten up, buy some popcorn, and enjoy.
The Dish
(2000)
Yes I can remember a time when we did something really great.
19 May 2001
Every great event has as its foundation the faithful efforts of an army of people. This movie chronicles the little bits of heroic effort that converged to allow us to actually see the human species leave the cradle live. It's interwoven with quirky Australian humor and the kind of love that makes life worth living.
Very well directed and beautifully shot, this movie seems to be ignored by the chain theatres. It will be back with a vengeance when it's released on DVD.
Very well directed and beautifully shot, this movie seems to be ignored by the chain theatres. It will be back with a vengeance when it's released on DVD.
Finding Forrester
(2000)
Stubborn is good...
14 January 2001
How do you triumph in a world of low expectations? Jamal Wallace is blessed with grace of mind (writing) and grace of body (basketball). His academic brilliance is an impediment in his Bronx home neighborhood and his race and background are an impediment at the superior private school that has sought him out. New Yorker Robert Brown turns in a stunning first performance alongside legendaries Sean Connery, F. Murray Abraham, and Anna Pacquin. I hope to see a lot more of Robert Brown -- he's good. Anna Pacquin likewise provides a far more substantive and worthy performance than some of her recent works. Kudos as well for cinematographer Harris Savides for a beautiful, rich presentation. Take along someone who teaches.
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