ronah Reviews

Frozen River (2008)

Leo and Upham - a winning team

[8/10 · 24 October 2008]

A real gem that shouldn't be missed, but sadly may slip under the radar due to lack of distribution.

Melissa Leo and Misty Upham show that it is possible to be understated and controlled, yet put in a powerful, moving and uplifting performance that tugs on the heartstrings - something that several of Hollywood's higher profile leading ladies should take note of. Upham's control and poise, in particular, give her character such dignity - as someone elsewhere on the forum has said, I have found myself thinking about her character a lot since seeing the film last night. It was also utterly refreshing to see women with flaws - bad skin, no make up, dirty fingernails - real women, living REAL lives.

The supporting cast - particularly Charlie McDermott - put in exemplary performances, and the overall feel and colour of the film really brings home the frosty, bleak and drab state of the characters' lives. Despite the heating in the cinema, I was chilled and cold by the end, yet utterly involved. Totally absorbing. See it today!

Someone to Watch Over Me (1987)

So powerful yet so underrated

[8/10 · 21 October 2008]

How has Tom Berenger slipped out of the view of Hollywood? This man is a real talent, who conveys the confusion and pathos of an untenable situation with passion, conviction and realism.

Scott makes the tension palpable, and the supporting cast is so well rounded that IMHO it makes one of the best ever cinematic experiences. Mimi Rogers puts in a credible performance as a tortured socialite and the thrill of the chase makes for some startling and real scenes which keep you on the edge of your seat. If you want great entertainment without the hugest cerebral challenge (!) this is a fab way to spend an evening.

Miracle at St. Anna (2008)

Magnificent

[10/10 · 17 October 2008]

Those who are complaining about the use of the N word have not hung out with African Americans, or indeed black people of any heritage - this is a word that is historically accurate and still used in conversations between people on a regular basis. Get over yourselves.

Meanwhile, don't allow this PC nonsense to cloud the fact that this is a superb, uplifting and thought provoking piece of film-making from one of the most gifted directors of any generation. Beautiful performances, clever camera-work, deft use of comedy and colour to distract from the often harrowing subject matter - truly and utterly superb. If Spike isn't holding at least one of those little gold men come awards season as a result of this movie, there is something wrong in the world. Cinema gold.