rising_star-42 Reviews

The Failures (2003)

Fails to enlighten - but entertains nonetheless

[7/10 · 3 November 2003]

Most of The Failures is typical teenage angst. I found myself laughing but unimpressed by the characters. But when Lilly takes an active interest in William's suicide, I perked up. Though the plot that ensues is predictable and trite, this sudden interest of hers is surprising and almost adorable.

The last half hour is worth the rental fee. I wish I could expound upon it further, but that would give away the end. But it points the camera at us and forces the audience to examine what we live for.

It's worth a watch if you have access to it but it's not likely to become a classic for me.

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

Bloody Brilliant!

[9/10 · 10 July 2003]

Pirates of the Caribbean is a well-written, well-made, and well-acted film. Do not expect a simple action film; it is humourous and creepy, fascinating and thrilling. Like most films, there are a couple of holes here and there in the fabric of the story; but this film wasn't made for the Oscars, it's meant to entertain and it succeeds in full at that. It's a jolly good time with some good actors (and great Academy Award Winner Geoffrey Rush) and high adventure on the high seas. Not to be missed!

I Am Sam (2001)

Touching, but needs improvement

[8/10 · 31 March 2002]

Though the film was excellently written, and the acting was extremely well done, the cinematography left me as nauseated as when I went to see "The Blair Witch Project." Though I appreciate the frenetic and panicked quality to the various angles and colours, it is over used and left me reaching for the Pepto Bismol. Which is a shame, too, because I'm certain I would've appreciated it a lot more had I not been trying to settle my stomach the whole time.

However, I definitely recommend seeing it. Just be sure to skip the popcorn.

Noir (2001–2002)

Anime has never been better!

[10/10 · 20 October 2001]

Dark series about a woman with a past, a woman who can't remember the past, and the secret that could destroy them both. The music is breathtaking, and the plot is winding and unpredictable. It's anime for people who didn't think they liked anime. Great stuff.

Cradle Will Rock (1999)

This is one of the most perfect films ever made.

[10/10 · 2 May 2001]

This film has something for everyone, humor, drama, big-name actors, a fabulous plot, and historical sets and costumes. This has to be one of the greatest movies ever. It combines the story of a real musical, Cradle Will Rock (which was produced by the Federal Theatre Project of the Works Progress Administration in the 30s) with historical figures of the time to create a wild and fun journey through New York life in the 30s. An especially stellar performance for John Turturro, it is a film you cannot miss.