skcummings Reviews

The Libertine (2004)

A lover to hate

[8/10 · 17 September 2006]

Another Depp classic. The man's innate smoldering sexuality leaps from the screen as he plays another character from history. When he, as his character the 2nd Earl of Rochester, speaks directly to the camera in the opening scene, you will be repelled and drawn simultaneously. And you, like, he will be lost.

When he recants his life's work, though, dear viewer, you must know that there is no direct evidence of such a spiritual redemption. Indeed, if you know much of the Earl's biography, you will think such a turnaround a bit precious, especially after seeing Depp's nuanced, yet powerful portrayal of a man exploring the edge.

Iron Jawed Angels (2004 TV Movie)

Must-see for young women

[8/10 · 22 January 2006]

I teach at a community college, so I some in contact with many young women. Most of them are without ANY understanding of the difficulties of women in the past. Their own gender- associated difficulties seem to exist either in a historical vacuum or are not recognized as gender-based at all. This movie, with its smart editing and brilliant soundtrack, goes a long way toward helping young women of the 21st century reconnect with those to made their freedoms possible.

And I dare any woman of voting age not to feel ashamed if she does not register and vote in every election, local and national, from now until she's loaded into the hearse.

Munich (2005)

Intense, worth every minute

[9/10 · 6 January 2006]

Another dip in the Spielberg pool and I come away drenched in emotion. I was a freshman in high school in Texas during the Munich games. I was stunned by the events and understood little.

Today, I am still stunned by Munich and every terrorist act that followed, but I understand so much more and grieve. Spielberg gives us a powerful glimpse into the meaning of home, family, honor, history, ethics, and faith. The movie is not about the Jews and Arabs. It's about human beings. It's about us.

The narrative is driven by our connection to Avner. We watch as Eric Bana opens himself up in a way that the likes of a George Clooney in Syriana only dreams of.

This is a must see.