Daraven Reviews

Bad Santa (2003)

The Holiday Movie for the New Millennium

[9/10 · 6 December 2003]

What Bill Murray did for the Christmas in the 80's with Scrooged, Billy Bob Thornton takes to the next level with "Bad Santa". Here we get to see a different kind of Clause, not the watered down Tim Allen variety, or the sugar coated "Miracle" Santa. But a hard time drifter and safe-cracker who is luckier that he should be.

From being on the top of the heap to the bottom of the cesspool and all of the "dressing rooms' in-between, Uncle Willie has treats for all the little boys and girls, with out adding any kind of improper thoughts toward children, (if you disregard shouting obscenities to every child he encounters). There are no strange pedophiliac moments, and no nudity to speak of, (really).

But with only two exceptions everyone in this film is messed up, and I take that statement back, everyone has a problem in this movie its just that Santa takes the cake, but won't take the sandwiches and cookies when offered. I hate giving things away like some folks, but if you are at all like me, this is about to be a new holiday favorite.

Total Recall 2070 (1999)

The title of the show was a mistake!

[8/10 · 4 August 2003]

This show was great, although everyone who sees it is reminded of another P.K. Dick Movie Bladerunner. The look and feel of the show was such. And the whole thing was very compelling. Lots of plot twist and decent dialogue. But since the name of the show was based on a movie that I would rate at best as a two on the scale of 1-10 the audience was not drawn to it. It is a shame that it was taken off the air after only two seasons. If you have the chance to see this pilot movie try it out and cast a vote. Lets get them to release the entire show on DVD, once again its more like Harrison in Bladerunner than Arnold in Total Recall

(pee ewe).

Batman: Dead End (2003)

Because it's one of the best Batman Films ever!

[9/10 · 1 August 2003]

Batman: Dead End is a short comic book and has all the interesting character elements you could wish for in such a short time. This crew and director Sandy Collora should be congratulated on what they have accomplished. They have inspired me.

I know that it's short. I know that it has plot holes (check the pun) but for just over eight minuets it brings a lot to the table. The main thing is that they did it. As a hopeful filmmaker myself I know that is what counts.

It keeps you interested; the film makes you go WOW! And if one thinks that they can do better then "put your film where your mouth is". I know that I will.

Follow Me Home (1996)

I wish that everyone could see this film.

[15 April 2003]

The talents of the Bratt family are not limited to one member. Peter Bratt has made a valiant effort in making an entertaining and thought provoking tale of the anxiety of the "Man of Color" in America. If you liked Benjamin's performance in Pinero you would have dropped you jaw at seeing his portrayal of the socially disturbed cousin Able. You could almost see the bond between the brothers, as Peter brought forth this character from within his brother. The lack of gratuitous sex or violence were perhaps only two of the reasons you may never get a chance to see this incredible film. Let me put it this way, if I could buy this film on VHS and keep it in my collection, I would let you see it, but it would never leave my home.