shoutingagain Reviews

The Lover (1992)

let's talk about love. Maybe statutory rape too.

[3/10 · 18 July 2020]

Gotta get kick out of main review listing "POINTLESS objections" yet in one of them instead seemingly indicating the objection is valid--the one referencing they DO NOT KNOW each other!! Sure, there's slow character development in movies that work. Not here! What does NOT work is trying to tell a moving love story that involves NO love, only lust. You never see them get to know each other at all. I'm no prude but can be honest about what I'm watching, it's f*&^fest only! He likes what he sees, lusts after her & then we watch them go at it. Love? Don't make me laugh (or disgrace the word)... that is only, AT best, lust! Secondly, add in the fact they both so wildly disrespect each other, words fail to convey. Yes, he tells her at dinner how SHE is now not "marriageable" to him in China due to not being a virgin (yet he some stud I suppose. What the hell is with social acceptances of mistresses in Asia anyway? SCREW that patriarchy!) ..and clearly, I totally trust that crazy sexist misogyny existed in 1929 & maybe today...dunno, it's ridiculous & offensive. Yet she doesn't care, she's the same slut HE is. Then she goes on to disrepect HIM at every turn as well, from the way she speaks "Chinaman" with such awful disdain, you'd think she's banging a dog. WHO would want a child like that? Even some rich pervert should have some small fraction dignity for himself left. Well looks like he does for ONE flash where he slap her (she almost appears to beg for it, so sick there too) --I mean, c'mon! Again, they do NOT KNOW EACH other, they never TALK (if they do, appears filmmakers so not want to let us in, heck, we might miss some more sex). Truly to KEEP using the word "lovemaking" is offensive to those of us who know the meaning, so at least try to stop peddling your soft-to-medium porn by giving it something it is not. Just sex, so please don't make more of it.

and yes, I was trying to seque (using "child) to once again to the most disturbing part NO ONE cares about in this film. She's FIFTEEN so yes, that is rape. They are both more consumed with race, social norms & what others think than RAPE. some 36 (or there within) perv sticking it to some mentally unstable nymph-child nightly is gross, distasteful & unethical. STILL rape which is no light matter. And all this, is REALITY! BAM! Can't gloss it up as some "art" piece, that's a laugh. No matter HOW lovely you try to conceal child statutory in earthly deep cinematography, music photography, lightening & good-looking actors, you are still trying to pass off a pig in lipstick (and calling it beauty). OH and then lastly, kinda hard to also miss oft all the sick premises involved here, also introduced a solid notion of pimping & prostitution (what I guess she was & her Mom & brothers, pimps). Women's groups should've picketed this disgraceful farce trying to pass as film art. .

Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood (2017)

if you read national inquirer, think sex abuse of kids is fine, maybe this for you

[1/10 · 15 July 2020]

Honestly most reviewers captured it better but really, give what you observe even further thought.

To sum up this man's life, tragic, disgusting, SAD.

The person that wrote he sold out/outed! ALL these stars hit nail on the head. Yes, that is IF even part of this is true, who the heck knows; consider the source! But if it is--and yes, folks, that's something no one should trust--he is making claims against those already long-passed with no voice to defend themselves. yes, maybe they care about their legacy (I would if someone defamed me when I'm gone). On something literally NONE of his business. IF they wanted to "out" themselves, that is THEIR affair & right, not his.

IF one is going to argue, those are different times, people could NOT do so, I still would argue back, so WHAT, they still have personal right to privacy & most could've come out LONG after it would've cost them in the industry (when they were OUT of it fully). So nah, I don't buy it. Or maybe it's that frankly, I just don't care. Sure,no doubt some were gay but not all the names he bandied about (why is it SOME gays like to believe everyone is? it's true, some do. Don't bury me for saying the obvious!). Still, to sum up that aspect of it, he totally sells them out to make money. No thought about others. What about their family & relatives today? Does he care about them? I DO hope they sue the pants off him for libel. it is defamatory & unethical.

STILL the most disconcerting part of all this (God knows if THAT is true too. Sounds like a convenient way to excuse one very selfish, brain-addled hedonist) is his brushing off & yes, advocating sexual child abuse ("baby!"). Do NOT miss that part.

Regardless of whether true or not (I have my own suspicions), when asked he brushes it off that it's "NOTHING" so that in turn, means if it's OK to have happened to him, why not others? Right? I mean, by logical extension, if one is to say their own sexual abuse is fine, then of course they would apply that same logic/position to other children.

Why not say he also 'procured sex" in ANY form that was asked of him?! no biggie, no boundaries!!

I don't for one second believe, if what he said is true, he would NOT find a kid for whoever asked for one. And judging by what he SAYS (it's not wrong) then he absolutely would, at minimum, look the other way & not report it if he saw it going on. And yes, in life today as well as back then, believe me, THAT goes on!

Disgusting pervert contributing to problems, nothing noteworthy to examine. .

Can't think of anyone more trashy than this. No moral compass, no dignity, and seriously NO loyalty to anyone. again, that is, IF any of this is true & they trusted in him. If not OK to betray them back then, why in the world would he think it OK NOW? Again, it's all national inquirer garbage. Better to believe in the 4-headed swamp monster, less sickening & frightening. Why this poor woman is even around him is distressing & plain SAD.

John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019)

AWFUL, awful AWFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[1/10 · 29 May 2019]

Doesn't take many more words than this.

IF you want to sit thru 2+ hours of silly implausible fighting--where4 really everyone would be DEAD with first blow but seems to be an inhuman robot-- with NO plot, go right ahead. Don't way you weren't warned.

OH my GOD.....was this a disgrace to call a movie at all, just assemble fighting scenes on your computer, call it a day. Guess no one expect anything anymore & scary to think those rating THIS will be in charge of running our country someday (think they started already). Hard to say...might be tie for worst movie of the year thus far.



Where did the WRITERS go? What a STUPID movie.

The Intouchables (2011)

Didn't detect even ONE false note.

[9/10 · 10 April 2019]

I noticed some jaded critics on rotten tomatoes (generally very positive reviews but I wanted to read the critical ones to see WHAT they missed. it's what I do so I can see what makes one tick & their viewpoint) and wanted to address that first.

What I think they wanted is to see more sorrow, heartache & troubling nature of being disabled (one mentioned the D/bell & butterfly which yeah, I've seen..I do appreciate but did NOT enjoy that one bit. Still, listen up.... this is NOT going in that direction for a reason!) You do KNOW some films regarding similar subject matter have varying things to say as it's multifaceted just like our LIVES are. We can be miserable, full of pity & sorrow one day & full of life & joy another. Thankfully all due to the variety life has to offer. No matter what your condition, physically or mentally. So I'm clear, they in NO way try to gloss over the harsh reality of paralysis OR poverty. I got that, think everyone did. But what of Humanity, what of friendship & of the power of hope, kindness? Is this not universal to all?

Furthermore, to suggest there can be NO humor, emotion, attachment or soul to experiencing that ....then ALL we do is to shortchange human beings & life itself. These actors were simply fabulous & I was not only a willing participant to join on both of their journeys but most of all, good to be mindful that this wonderfully touching film is based on a REAL friendship so to address any suggestion of it being maudlin or sentimental (it's neither) makes me wonder what is wrong with YOU. We witness REAL struggle---even hopelessness. Again, who among us hasn't experienced this at least ONE moment in their life? In fact, for me watching one of our main protagonists wonderfully celebrate the joys of dance while the paralyzed man's face registers clear unfettered elation.... but can't engage in such himself! (yeah...I love to dance) actually caused me strife when I thought..."...just WOW what if I couldn't dance OR hear music!" Then next "what a BLESSING it is I CAN!" Have I counted my own blessings recently enough? Have any of us?

So start counting your blessings & know that life CAN, in all likelihood, be FAR worse. If that's not a good message buried in a great real-life plot--of humanity, friendship, HUMOR, exhilaration of being ALIVE-- well then, apparently I've missed something. But no, really YOU do if this all escaped you. Deeper than it appears.

Yes, you should see this. Don't waste your time on the American remake (the upside..I'm American, I saw it. I love Cranston but can't begin to compare! Know that missed the mark. How happy I was to read these two amazing men are still friends today, so yeah, something we NEED for the times in which we live, affirmation of something that is good. And maybe all coming from place of serious heartache & damage. Yeah, there's nothing manipulative here, I basically can't stand that sort of film...do not cheapen this one bit to compare it to lesser (someone on RT mentioned "bucket list" & I almost puked. Same goes for this critic's writing). Then lastly, here is from an American that says IF you are going to object on basis of race, you must be one sad, lonely person looking for trouble that is NOT there. This is about 2 men, to me wouldn't matter if they were purple, race has NOTHING To do with it, we are all just people. So the "real life gent" wasn't African American? So what? WHO cares? it's a movie, NOT a documentary. I can't imagine anyone in the role of the caretaker than this actor, he imbues the part with his entire being. They both do. Overall, I see no flaw in this production whatsoever. I see why the French embraced it so fully & wonder why America felt remaking it rather than seeing is as I did tonight, the REAL deal, made any sense. I'm sure that part was financial, they wanted to cash in. Just brilliant. Can't see how this didn't make nomination for every award going (and win it) but assume critics are often a breed most of us fail to understand, much less a snobby academy-award committee who often prefer odd esoteric material that in truth, they likely fail to understand themselves (or it's just plain political). BRAVO to all involved, from script, direction, acting & final piece of work! I know I will give this a second viewing, maybe more as needed. I believe it's an honest & straightforward powerful elixir, in addition to all else it quite successfully aims to do.

Loveless (2017)

A hard watch...

[9/10 · 4 December 2018]

...but as unfailingly engrossing as any film i've ever seen.

This is as dark as any theme comes but portrayed with such incredible realism that it will make you wince. Wounded, damaged, soulless parents that take your breath away. And although we meet the son only a short time, I personally felt such ache & pain for him, it was palpable. The scene with him in the bathroom one of the most devastating ever filmed. And yes, all the allegories & metaphors execute beautifully...about Russian, our society, technology & narcissism. Far more if you care to dig deeper. you will NOT easily get this film out of your head & that's testament to all involved.

Among Wolves (2016)

meditative study on humanity

[10/10 · 29 August 2018]

It's actually a rather basic universal premise. We have worldwide wars, veterans that have to navigate life afterwards, given no choice in the matter. Often suffering fallout of their experience but also, unfortunately, often either neglected, tossed away, or given little thought by society at large. I'd imagine they are seeking to find out "what NOW?"! Well these men find a way to continued purpose, humanity & community as a motorcycle group basically whose objective is continued charitable good deeds. Yes, at the center of focus is assisting & caring for horses otherwise neglected & left to their own devices (no coincidence identifying much of their own fate for survival). Plus there's a profound feeling of enlightenment, peace & calm to witness any of them among the horses they decide & seek to protect. Yes, it's quite metaphorical as they truly DO mirror the strength & endurance of not just these very men but maybe too, of those of us navigating this world, given a variety of various woes & obstacles, in all its complexities. Still yes, these horses represent, in particular, the men's towering resilience, strength, unfailing endurance & I think, dignity & nobility. They are a powerful sight to behold.

They inform us as they so choose, there is nothing manipulative or sentimental on screen here to behold. Just their unvarnished truth. Brilliant filmmaking decision; more documentaries should go that route. I saw no agenda except to tell a story, their story & in fact, get & stay out of the way, let it simply unfold. Be patient as it does, there is much reward awaiting you. Such respect to allow these men to show you their lives as they saw fit. And human they are---warts & all-- same as each one of us, no matter what our circumstance.

There are things we share just by the mere reality of being human & living life in a complicated world. That includes often confounding, debilitating war, conflict & political landscape. To me, powerful & quietly moving. Many moments can be quite subtle as life typically is. Often that is what most packs a punch. I could relate.

Lastly, it did make me want to read up more about the Bosnian war/s, the veterans, its people, its culture, its political, economic & sociological outlook for their future, its land. And thus, I did. Glad I did so, I learned much.

So yes, this documentary left me caring about not just the men (the horses! The orphanages & kids, the society!) but went well beyond its limited scope. It taught me more about an unremarkable (ah..but actually remarkable!) group, a place & persons I'd otherwise not have known. Elucidating moments I'm glad to have experienced, that I wish for others & more for myself. We all are better knowing more about each other. That is, in fact, what builds bridges instead of walls. I have no doubt there will always be pride, war---that, conflict will remain but part of the solution falls in understanding the world at large, its people in every corner of it.

The better we know our fellow man, the less likely we are to invoke violence upon them, even our own neighbors. But yeah, that might be my getting too preachy, too philosophical in general. The same mistake cannot be make of this. It was my personal take-away, perhaps your own far from that.

I struggle to properly convey that this can be a WORLD story, it's that relatable. I'm, however, glad it belongs to them as I now know more about this area & its people. The veterans in the outlying areas we hardly get glimmer of insight into. They deserve it, much as we all do. I felt privileged to know them here. Understanding can lead us a long way.

The filmmaker, I think, navigated this project wisely by again, having left this basically in their widely capable hands. Their voice, their slices of life as designed & chosen only by them alone to share with us. I see it as their film. Again, no offense or discredit to those creating it. Still l rather ingenious approach.

We all (OK, most of us!)l need purpose, to feel useful and part of something larger. That we can make a difference. And if we don't feel such way, good to see acts to inspire that motivation inside each of us.

I left there moved, grateful for this opportunity to learn of their experience. Also, highly appreciative to benefit a Q & A with the filmmaker afterward who clarified & expounded on some of the minor questions lingering in my mind. What he shared, as well as the audience's input, quite incisive bonus to my unique film experience.

Highly recommended for the discerning audience who is seeking more than routine, predictable movies that, upon further inspection, in fact, leave us little to nothing. Sadly, sometimes not even "entertained" which as a sole objective, is sadly a low bar to ascribe & measure up to.

I believe you will reflect long after viewing, what I feel anyhow, amazing men of towering, stoic strength, contemplation, camaraderie & most vitally, good-will on screen. Inspiring! How refreshing as well, in the end, it's life affirming. Transporting pain, maybe torment into something of utility & good deeds. What more can we want from others who've seen dark places?

The fact is, We ARE all in this together (this world & our communities), and to have this theme interwoven with the horses they care for--well nothing falls into place better. OH and lastly I'd be remiss if I failed to mention the the photography & cinematography. It commands you see it preferably IN a theater if at all possible. You will be glad of choosing such simple effort. All said, if that's not possible, see it in any format available to you.

While We Live (2017)

gripping realistic drama transcends all cultures

[9/10 · 6 July 2018]

I can't imagine why there isn't so much as even ONE review here. I've never seen that before. So I decided someone must add one. Guess that leaves me.

At any rate, I hope it's not too much a spolier to add that if you've lived long enough, you can identify with the film in some serious way. I can't imagine what void must be in your life if this fails to resonate with your heart.

I think at some point, all families face tragedy, crisis & defining moments. We've had a few but by far, our/my biggest one was losing a brother in an accident when he was 16. It's unimaginable when unexpected sorrow greets you & a learning experience to see how all the family members and friends respond. It's both heartbreaking & surprising. One never can be sure what's going through another head at any given time. It vascillates frequently. That leads to so much, which this story surely indicates freshly & without manipulation. It's a journey. Certainly one I wish to visit upon no family.

I thought they explored themes all of us are familiar with, loss or no loss. Guilt, family dysfunction, suffering, death, love & life. Honestly & unabashedly.

It's well acted, well scripted & finely tuned. No easy task to get all things right. I think it's likely to stay with you long after the credits roll. Shows how much we all impact each other but again, a universal theme involving also the fallout of sheer agony & pain, what we endure as well as inflict on one another.

The young man starring in this had the most expressive face & eyes, I was riveted by his performance & his seemingly-artful understanding of this role. All the prominent actors not missing a note on their mark.

I must admit here, I took ONE simple star off due to the VERY ending (and again, don't wanna spoil anything) but I was thinking it concluded (with person in the shot, standing next to him) in a manner I didn't care for or imagined to sum up this story. But again, that was me & how I interpreted that scene. I think others might find it more ambigious & yes, I hope that's the case. One certainly can be made that it is, if you replay it & closely listen to the precise words being heard by our protagonist.

All the same, I prefer them to conclude this diffiicult, but exemplary, narrative as it should, with utter clarity & an unmistakable positive resolution---again, meaning to me, exactly as I feel the plot is " leaning into" all the while.

For one thing, these wonderful characters are more than deserving some small piece and measure of peace, unity, happiness & HOPE. And yes, you will know exactly what I mean once you see it, as well.

Secondly, though it wasn't presented in a perfectly linear fashion, it wasn't, in the least, confusing to follow. Not that I have trouble in that area (unless overly, deliberately, confounding construct), but worth mentioning as they maneuver seamlessly, this particular machination intricately weaving the tale expertly. I felt afterward it was the perfect device to utiliize & in fact, behooved the story's plotline.

I think you will be very hard pressed to find a moment that could've been edited nor will you find yourself bored or lacking interest for a mere second.

I hope all the persons involved with this film went on to do far more, both the writers & the actors--and yes, I will look into that next-- because if not, that would be an egregious & incredible waste of enormous talent. I always most appreciate Danish films (2012 "The Hunt") for good reason. Know that THIS is no exception. Hope you also take this ride;, the story is unmistakably relatable & human.

Professor Marston & the Wonder Women (2017)

still sexist "hollywood" piece.

[4/10 · 16 October 2017]

Yeah, nothing "empowering" or in the ballpark of women's liberation here. Just the opposite. As always, step BACKWARD for women, as this story suggests, we exist to entertain your lust, not exercise any strength or back bone. I saw no intelligence presented & I looked deeply to find some.

You got what is suppose to be a "true" story but let's instead throw in 2 hot actresses (than the actual 2 homely bisexuals, if they were even such). So again, let's use LESBIAN titillation to sell tix. Yet again! hey, no one's thought of that. Throw in hot blond without a brain cell & bam...you have a film! NOTHING progressive or forward-thinking about one man, TWO women. Maybe turn equation other way around & turns heads. At least change the tune for once, I'm bored!!

I don't care what the STORY really is (about some freaks but naturally sanitized to pretend they "worked" as a family. OH right!!), this is offensive use of women once again & DEVALUES "Wonder Woman" as another object for men (bondage & other negative female images), yes..THAT again, Old HAT.

And sadly, not well done. Is Hollywood trying to promote aberrant conduct? Please ASK yourself this. didn't they make it appear conflict- free, SO happy, kids all adjusted perfectly...with nice picket fence? You BETCHA.

Do NOT be fooled otherwise, nothing to celebrate here nor good reason to tell this UTTER & complete unimportant fool's story. Poor kids is ALL I can say. Sure they lived out their sad, ostracized lives in therapy.

Atomic Blonde (2017)

so, is lesbian "context" novel anymore?

[3/10 · 5 August 2017]

First, let me preface with saying, I KNOW I won't be PC & get all "not helpful" but that's all GOOD by me as I'm still all RIGHT, so being on side of truth works for me.

I won't bore you with rehashing reviews already having stated plot-narrative better than I.

But, I WOULD like to speak about the obvious sexist plot device (who better than just act as a sex object than she?)

So yeah, I will ask you to consider THIS:

Imagine the screenwriters decidedly scripting Jason Bourne, James BOND or any of the men gay (or bisexual)? Or better put, engaging in homosexual action.

Think that would've won over reviewers & critics? My guess is, no, it would've kept many from the theater or IF attending & surprised to learn it there, I see response going somewhat THIS way---speaking out LOUDLY, something like..."NO way, NOT James Bond, he's a real ladies-man stud!" OR I suspect they just UP & leave.

Before I get violently accused of being homophobic (I am not), keep reading.

I don't care what anyone does, truly I do not. What I DO CARE GREATLY about is using lesbian action to sell tickets. Been years now that it's "trendy" and cool to throw in Lesbian scenes when NO......it's not anywhere NEAR accepted to do the same for men.

Don't even try to PRETEND it is, your nose will be growing the second you do. There's NO way anyone would accept anything less than a FULLY straight James Bond! Or any character resembling him.

And you know WHAT ladies (and men!)...this is intentionally crafted & manipulation by MEN as they make more than 80% of our movies. So no..they don't wanna see gay action with men, only HOT women. They also know other men enjoy this (c'mon now.. BE honest, most of you do)

Well you know what? Screw that!! It's about as overtly sexist, misogynistic, and offensive as any other decision can be.

I've had ENOUGH already.

And NO....I truly do NOT care about gays one way or another. You might guess I'm straight & it's true but this is also true: I'd feel even MORE passionately if I were some gay woman witnessing my sexuality preference being USED to "entertain" men.

You don't like truth, then go ahead & try to state otherwise, give it your best shot to make cohesive, cogent argument. I know you cannot. DO accept the challenge, I'd love to read & laugh!

Because like it or not, you ALL know I'm totally on target here.

Men's homosexuality is not as acceptable as women in film. Here's another that proves my point:

I literally watched on as, at least, half the African American theater goers hastily, angrily got UP & walk out at "Moonlight" during the ONE short scene they couldn't manage seeing (with any simple tolerance). It was one ---kinda amusing, VERY surprising-- incredible sight to me. I sat there witnessing such stunned. And obviously thinking... did they NOT read beforehand? Who goes into any film totally blind? Why do that, particularly if SO sensitive?

ALSO--and this is VITAL---anyone having knowledge of this film knows that VERY story necessitated this tasteful scene. More than necessary part for this plot & finally, again, large part of what the MOVIE WAS about. And even THERE, nothing gratuitous about this ONE scene incorporated into the movie. There was NO mistaking filmmaker chose to CUT AWAY so as to not offend --I suppose!!---straight MALE audiences!! We can't have that, can we? Yet still I watched parade of them march out the door. Insane!

What the heck's going on out there?

Ladies, just THINK!!

WHY do we let MEN call the shots & manipulate our film industry? WHY is only female "gayness" accepted, heralded, encouraged, even championed (and by men, rather, more like, drooled over) as being progressive? Do you get YOU are not such? NO...you are NOT>

Also do you NOT get that MOST gay women look NOTHING like what you see in the films? STOP your delusion & open your obtuse eyes!! (sorry lesbians, just being candid there).

MOST of all, lastly, why do these idiot actresses (each & EVERY one of them, sell-out doormats) continue to allow MEN to call all the shots?

No matter what you might suspect (not that I care, truth is truth!) I again, frankly, do NOT care a hill of beans of anyone's sexuality, doesn't involve or concern me but I have ENORMOUS concern when LESBIAN depiction is used to titillate. When it's as exploitative, manipulative & obvious as it's been for years now. Yep, where THAT is concerned, I have a HUGE problem.

But hey, I'll just wait on the MALE James Bond to have gay action & see how that goes over with audiences!! OH that's right...we will NEVER see that. The outcry would be heard around the world.

Hypocrites, you all make me sick.

Lesbains do NOT exist to entertain men, get that thru your thick skulls!! I wish these simple-minded, money-grabbing exhibitionist- actresses would assert themselves with these very common devices used in scripts to entertain GUYS.... they are as much as the problem as the MEN who orchestrate this ridiculousness. But hey, they are as swallow, egotistical & self-absorbed as we rightly guess them to be.

Krampus (I) (2015)

take a PASS!!

[2/10 · 14 December 2015]

Holy Jesus, what garbage.

Reminded me of gremlins from MANY years back but to my recollection, that was done better. Which is saying a lot, considering I don't think that made much impression either.

How did they GET THESE STARS to act in it? How can they stomach this script?!!! (some of the lines were THAT laughable. I should be able to quote them now but fortunately they escaped me as I walked...or bolted...for the exit. Unfortunately just 1 hr 55 minutes TOO late. Wish I could get my time back AND my money).

IMDb is asking me to WRITE more in order to post this, unsure why, but it's painful enough to delineate my impression as is. There were audible groans through this entire movie from audience & think about this, avg age there was maybe 18 & they aren't too discerning when given "horror films"...I think that says it ALL. And I mean, GROANS. When it ended, group of guys behind me said loudly...God did THAT SUCK!!!

Short Term 12 (2013)

outstanding script & acting.

[10/10 · 16 February 2014]

Kept me pondering long after credits rolled. About life, circumstances & what obstacles kids might have to overcome & endure at a criminally young age for such tragedy. So overall, powerful stuff to reflect on. Will also have you empathetical & counting your own particular blessings. Or so I hope. I can't think of one false note, honestly, and it packs a punch all the while being very understated & realistic (I have worked with at-risk youth). SPOILER ahead..... My husband's ONLY complaint (and can't get more minor than this) is a CAR alarm would go off or neighbors alerted during that one scene. (OK, that can't be TOO great a spoiler in & of itself but taking NO chances).

I think everyone should see this. I know I've spread the word. These indie-films are SO far superior to those other trite superstar movies that call for MILLIONS of dollars to make. Thank God for ART which challenges that concept.

Cool Hand Luke (1967)

One of the best films ever made!! CLASSIC

[10/10 · 13 June 2013]

For anyone having missed this tour de force by Newman, what a TREAT to recommend. There's enough symbolism, strength & edge to make this movie last a lifetime. It never grows old. The egg swallowing scene is up there with "are you talking to me" in Taxi-drive or other legendary movie. And GOD is Paul easy on the eyes. Of all the amaaazing films he compiled in his tremendous film career, to me, this is his finest accomplishment. And the character actors surrounding him only benefit & heighten its measure along the way. One not to be left out of any film aficiando's portfolio! And for those critics out there claiming it's OUTdated & not relevant, I say, don't be so quick to judge, slow down & drink this one in & THINK about the messages involved here.

Splendor in the Grass (1961)

one of the TOP lovestories of our time!

[10/10 · 13 June 2013]

Beatty & Wood, doesn't get better than THAT! First watched this film at age 11, immediately falling in love with Beatty (who can blame me!) but upon many repeated viewings, I see it holds up well. Some may find it dated, but it tackles some very prescient & telling--even incendiary-- issues for its time & I say Kazan was a bit of a trailblazer. In addition to being a fantastically soapy & riveting drama, it has some dark & overriding themes such as mental illness, class, family, sexual mores & repression. One can even argue possible incest (father/daughter. Think of how overtly dysfunctional she was for a second). It packs a wallop. But ultimately what's riveting most is the story, it's ultimately as heartbreaking as it comes (and has been repeated FAR too many times, not done well). The tragic loss of love. A story of shattered dreams & persons (and as I see it, life fully unfulfilled). It never fails to bring tears into my eyes; transports me in their journey.

Welcome to the Rileys (2010)

interesting little indie.

[8/10 · 2 February 2011]

As a movie buff, I tend to gravitate toward the art & independent material but also due to my area's theater selections, see a fair amount of mainstream movies. Yes, I catch few good films but many times I find disappointment in both worlds. This time ended differently. I can't help but remark how impressed I was by the honest writing and acting of all three characters. Struck me as rather genuine, gritty and believable plot-wise. I also was unsure if I appreciated the decision to refrain from thoroughly fleshing-out every character. One has staggering levels in which they are left to guess about all three. Ie: What happened to Stewart's character other than her mom's accident and demise to lead her on such a disheartening path? Why not more information and insight as to chronicle the downward spiral of this marriage after the child's death? Why not dig into and explore the wife's inward turn to near-hermit? Why is the husband not only so disenchanted with home but also work, albeit this desperate & hopeless soul floundering about? Well, actually wise decision to leave this unknown; I see it's not all that critical to the success of the story. Writers today over-inform.

Another area I originally thought to be a caveat to success was ending as it did. I mean everyone likes and cheers for a happy ending. But pondering this further--really how realistic is this in life? Moreover (and I've worked with troubled and lost kids) this film plays out precisely how life goes. It's not simple to intervene and turn someone around late in the game. There is wisdom, perception and integrity in this attempt to depict a more genuine article of life and that was done. I think Stewart's work was exceptional and her remark that she's "no one's little girl" (something to that affect) captures it brilliantly. You see throughout her vulnerability, survival instinct, yet damaged nature without her acting being sentimental or "hollywood". Yes, nice little gem.

Blue Valentine (2010)

intelligent, raw, difficult material.

[9/10 · 20 January 2011]

Such a stark, honest and visceral depiction of one marriage is a bit hard to ingest but certainly kept me thinking for hours afterward. Always a good thing. I have to start by writing the overall high user-score was contrary to the very user reviews I read here, so that's perplexing. But I get it-- I've ruminated over this film overnight & I think I understand and agree. I also was uncomfortable, unsettled and dismayed with the tone, message and focus because like most persons perhaps, I prefer to focus on a positive message, believe in the power & ultimate triumph of love and seek out happy endings. For one thing, it's far more welcome than to fear such outcome for oneself or those we love. But, you know, look around at our divorce rate and you can't help but see reality differs. It's FAR more like what was displayed here with such precision and clarity. I much appreciated how the characters were fleshed out and no one depicted exactly as the villain or an angel as that rarely is the case & mimics real life, though from my position, for the record, I landed squarely on the husband-protagonist's side. He was never once asked or encouraged to quit drinking or find his life's passion....not in a proper context of a loving spouse. This can be the difference between night and day (how it's approached). Honestly, I deeply felt his substantial heartbreaking level of pain so kudos to the writers and actors! The thought this movie most prompted in my head was how NO ONE really can predict how one will respond in times of unhappiness, dismay, strife or discordance. We think we can; we cannot. It's simply NOT something one commonly engages in contemplation, let alone conversation, when walking around interacting happily in love and looking forward. Those conversations rarely or never happen. If anything, people will convincingly project (not necessarily lying) they will bravely,loyally persevere and battle for their loved ones, no matter what, and love will win out. Sounds good. But you know, No one really knows (or can predict themselves) until they are tested WHEN or IF they will quit. You can think you know your mate (or yourself) but the reality is, you don't know what, when or HOW someone will respond to (what they define to be) serious challenges until that happens. You only can take on faith what a person tells (or shows) you they are--- but life & time will prove what that really is. I truly believe now (as a woman nearly 50) If it turns out in your favor, it's more often than not, simply mere LUCK, not special keen insight, perception and intelligence having acted out on your end. That's what I came away with. Yes, I knew this but still, riveting, unique, honest with stellar performances of two deeply flawed and struggling persons (she more flawed than he. She didn't ring as genuine, invested, sincere or even mildly compassionate) Yes, of course relationships must change and evolve as the participants do so certainly there's increased risk when uniting young (when having obtained less wisdom that can only come from age & life relationships) but fortunately for the viewers, in my humble assessment, this material went deeper than that. It brought to surface again this deeper fear I have within me...again, the truth & knowledge aren't necessarily absolutes....that we only know persons as well as they LET us, that they create their stories & how we know what they CHOOSE to allow us to know about them! Sadly, whether we want to believe that or not, it's how life works. Lastly, I concluded that people all bring not only their idiosyncrasies and flaws to the union but their coping (or lack of coping) manners & varying levels of commitment & expectations too.