Change Your Image
mtcla
Reviews
Ashby (2015)
Ashby: An Under-appreciated, Endearing Film
I consider this film something of a hidden gem; It has an endearing charm, one which i find slightly criminal given its poor reception and box office success.
The real draw to 'Ashby' for me personally is Mickey Rourke's performance, and its place within his filmography. To me, it proves his ability to act has endured, past 'The Wrestler' - a film in which many naysayers would believe to be his last good role. This in itself gives the film an added value that cannot be tarnished (not even by Rourke's behaviour in his personal life).
Furthermore, Emma Roberts and Nat Wolff are not without their charm; solidifying the strength of the cast.
However, the film is not without their flaws. Stylistically, the film is slightly underwhelming - a majority of the shots being bland and straightforward.
The humour is also somewhat strange and executed in a peculiar manner, but this is perhaps to be expected, given the generally quirky nature of Wolff's characters.
In the end, these are all flaws to be tolerated, and the value that lies within this film is a greater in comparison. Again, If nothing else it is truly a sight to behold for all devoted fans of Rourke's.
Out in Fifty (1999)
OUT IN FIFTY: Just Watch 'Angel Heart' Instead
Out In Fifty, has got to be one of the worst movies i have ever watched. I can safely say i've gone through all of Mickey Rourke's films (including his catalogue of 90s trash), so you know i have sat through plenty of stinkers.
Its hard to describe the film in a general sense, let alone do so in an endearing manner. Its misguided plot, unlikeable characters and penniless production value all leaving more to be desired. Even the most devoted Mickey Rourke fans, determined to see every film he's appeared in, are likely to struggle sitting through it all. Especially considering that Rourke isn't in the film anywhere near as much as he should.
i cannot possibly list all the flaws; I haven't even enough space, nor does my dignity allow the time to devote.
Mickey plays a man enraged by envy; caused by the murder of his wife, who was somehow killed while she cheated on him. Such backwards character foundation renders the character entirely impossible to relate to; and resultantly useless.
The acting is unfortunately reminiscent of a porno constantly also; meaning every scene has a strange aesthetic which leaves one repulsed and laden with discomfort.
Watch at your own risk, bearing these cautions in mind. I've done it - hopefully you now won't have to...