MaRX-4 Reviews

Kamikaze (1960)

Well presented.

[5/10 · 20 December 1999]

A brilliant, shocking documantary about the brave Japanese Pilots who gave their lives for their beloved country.

With excellent footage and narration, this is an excellent account of Japan's desparate last stand to defend her empire.

Should be seen by all.

Heintje - Ein Herz geht auf Reisen (1969)

Under-appreciated.

[9/10 · 15 December 1999]

After viewing this film I wonder why it is only given a stingy 1.6/10 ?! Surely it deserves atl east a mere 4/10?!

For a film of the late 1960's, it is not as bad as people seem to say it is! Not lacking in either story or acting, it is to say the least entertaining! Perhaps the special effects weren't up to a Cameron or Speilberg standard, but that's what the 1960's did to special effects in motion pictures!

I urge those who have seen it and didn't enjoy it to re-view it and give it another chance. And for those who have not seen it, if you've got a spare three hours somewhere, GIVE IT A GO.

The History of Rock 'n' Roll: Good Rockin' Tonight (1995) Season 1, Episode 2

Absolutely riveting.

[2/10 · 10 December 1999]

Far superior to "The History of Rock 'n' Roll Vol. 1", in both depth and style. With deep interests in early rock groups, Volume 2 is a must for all music lovers.

This excellent documentary most definitely puts it's pre-quel in it's shadow.

A must for any music fan.

Blossoms in Autumn (1973)

Sheer excellence.

[8/10 · 10 December 1999]

A definite MASTERPIECE from the genious (yet little known) director, Matjaz Klopcic. Matjaz shows off his amazing talent as he rips his story out, gripping the viewers with the excitment and horror of what Ahmed Mazzhoumulli and his communist-oriented wife Shirly Mazzhoumulli go through to get their long awaited divorce.

Although slightly long, it all becomes worth it when the final twist shakes the very foundations of human thinking in the closing scene of the film.

Perhaps Klopcic knew of the depth he would achieve in this film, and hence may have lightened the themes towards the conclusion. However, this film is a sure-pleasing four and a half hours.

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

Depressingly DISAPPOINTING.

[8 December 1999]

Definitely over-hyped and disappointing. The film which was set to scare the hell out of everyone, failed to even earn a flinch, let alone a closing of the eyes. . .

The light glimmer of fear it did manage to winkle out of me came from my fear of what I THOUGHT might happen. Which always ended up NOT happening.

The hand-held filming and "realistic" style of it also proved to be not as effective as I'd thought it might be.

I also dare to say, at times it tetered on the edge of being boring.

As I said, DEPRESSINGLY DISAPPOINTING.

Arghya (1961)

An absolute thriller.

[3/10 · 23 November 1999]

When we speak of special effect thrillers, we might think of The Matrix, Jurassic Park and Mission Impossible. But that is possibly due to the fact that you have not seen Arghya.

This explosive thriller with its amazing special effects (for the 1960's) is definitly due more recongnition than it receives today.

An excellent vision into mid-twentieth century life in Eastern Europe.

A must see for ALL!

The World Is Not Enough (1999)

A disgrace to the Bond films.

[22 November 1999]

Such a bad Bond film has not been seen since Licenced to Kill.

The World is Not Enough is not only slow moving, but is also lacking in action scenes and in all aspects that are critical for a good Bond film - class, style, action and gadgets.

Not only this, but the story line is feeble, with characters failing to be built up.

In earlier parts of the film, the plot is somewhat hard to follow, and this is later fixed with a corny and unprofessional explaination from Denise Richards.

This film also has the worst Bond girls yet - Denise Richards being a "smart bimbo" with an annoying accent and manner.

Completely lacking style.

Oul (1972)

GRIPPING.

[5/10 · 25 September 1999]

This little-known thriller is an untapped goldmine of Polish philosophy. Through its few characters, it brings forward its most deep morals and messages, ranging from the harsh realities of Polish-Folk Singing competitions, through to marriage, divorce and child abuse.

Absolutely GRIPPING.

A must see for anyone interested in LIFE.

American Pie (1999)

Seriously, THIS IS ONE OF THE WORST.

[25 September 1999]

This would have to be one of THE worst films ever. Yep, it's down there with Saving Private Ryan.

Although amusing AT TIMES, at others, this really has you staring at the ceiling. I would go as far as to say that Stalin's 1950's propaganda films would be more enthralling than American Pie.

Definietly one for teenage girls.

2/10.

The Thomas Crown Affair (1999)

BRILLIANT!

[7/10 · 25 September 1999]

What do you get for the man that has everything? Apparently a mindless remake. John McTiernan's version of the 1968 film starring Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway falls short of actual amusement and is even occasionally excruciating – save the brilliant ending that easily one-ups its predecessor. Leonard Maltin called the original `perfect non-think entertainment,' and the remake offers more of the same.

Pierce Brosnan plays Thomas Crown, an art-loving multimillionaire who spends his time plotting the perfect heist. Like the original, most of the film's first half-hour is devoted to the theft of a valuable painting from a museum (originally just over $2 million, but here a $100 million Monet). Catherine Banning (Rene Russo, Lethal Weapon 4) is an insurance agent for the museum and, together with NYPD detective Michael McCann (Denis Leary, True Crime), immediately suspects Crown and tries to mount her case against him. The trouble is that somewhere along the line, Banning mounts more than her case.

Casting-wise, the suave and debonair Brosnan is a much better choice than McQueen, but Russo is downright horrible in Dunaway's role. She looks awful and acts even worse. Leary seems lost as the cop and the film could have used more of his sarcastic spunk. The score never really seemed to fit the picture, and viewers will have a hard time connecting with any of the characters. Those responsible for the updated script include Leslie Dixon (the abominable That Old Feeling) and Kurt Wimmer (Sphere). Of other note, viewers should now know to be wary of any film that prominently displays a bowler hat (remember The Avengers?).

Alan Trustman's original screenplay (he also wrote the superior McQueen vehicle Bullitt) may have seemed invigorating in 1968, but today seems as stale as a cardboard pizza with felt pepperoni – especially since we all recently suffered through a very similar cat-and-mouse chase in Entrapment. The original, directed by Norman Jewison (Moonstruck), was shot by the legendary Haskell Wexler (Limbo) and included the use of what I like to call Brady Bunch windows – several smaller multi-image screens that make up the entire frame. Also look for Dunaway, who plays Crown's shrink in the updated version.

Elsker elsker ikke... (1995)

Love Me, Love Me Not

[3 May 1999]

A brilliant Danish film about the rise of fascism in the early 1960's.

Details the life of Hannah, the owner of a flower shop, who gradually becomes involved in the Danish far-right movement, much to the anger of her family, particularly her father.

But yes, all the corny old songs suddenly throb with new meaning.

A good film all round.

Return to Eden (1983)

A Mile Stone for Australian Television

[5 February 1999]

A riveting performance from the superb actor, Rebecca Gilling.

This mini-series is a Mile Stone for Australian Television. A heart breaking story about a young woman disfigured in a fight with a crocodile, who falls in love with the plastic surgeon from whom she seeks help.

This is Australian Television at its absolute best.

Oooo, GOEBBS.

A must for all Australians.

Number 96 (1974)

Once again, REBECCA GILLING.

[8/10 · 5 February 1999]

Well, once again, an excellent performance from the brilliant actress, Rebecca Gilling. Leading an all-star cast, this hilarious satire is a must for all extreme Right Wing-Australians.

This story of love, hate and Nazism is perhaps one of the best films from Australia in a long time.

An 8/10 for Number 96.

Colonel Trumper's Private War (1961– )

Hilarious stuff.

[5 February 1999]

A stereo typical television series from the golden age of British television. Colonel Trumper's Private War is a short but merry series, which is perhaps the first WAR series, such as "Dad's Army" and "M*A*S*H".

AS usual, the spot light is shining on Warren Mitchell, as his cast blast their way into the screen.

Not bad at all.

Forrest Gump (1994)

LOVED, or HATED.

[8/10 · 30 January 1999]

Well, this is a film, which sees, to be either LOVED or HATED.

To me, this film appealed to me for it's story-line, and the way it is "different" from other films. I also liked the fact that a lot "happened" in the film.

The idea of the film separates it from any other.

From childhood bullies to The Vietnam War, this film is a real pleaser.

At times sad, funny, confusing, this trip through Forrest Gump's life is a heart warming experience.

Absolutely, "Vundabar"!

Jack Frost (1997 Video)

Not TOO bad. . .

[29 January 1999]

As far as horror flicks go, this one is pretty darn good. While it may not be a classic tale of horror and suspense, it does provide many quality chuckles that make this movie a must see if you're into the horror/comedy genre.

Se7en (1995)

Become WRATH. . .

[8/10 · 29 January 1999]

Se7en left me hollow.

Se7en enlightened me.

Se7en opened my eyes.

Se7en will TEACH you.

". . .because, we see a deadly sin, on every corner, in every home, and we tolerate it, because it's common, because it's trivial. We tolerate it morning noon and night. Well, not any more. I'm setting the example. And what I've done, is going to be puzzled over, and remembered forever, and FOLLOWED. . ."

-John Doe

These words not only sent a chill down my spine, but also opened my eyes to the sins of the world we live in.

ABSOLUTELY TERRIFYING.

Philosophical to the root.

People who haven't seen this film, I admire you.

I mean it, I ADMIRE YOU.

I ENVY YOU.

I guess ENVY is MY sin. . .

François Gaillard ou la vie des autres (1971–1972)

BOLO, Jean.

[28 January 1999]

Jean Bolo at an all time LOW.

This program is from the "Dark ages" of French Television.

Bolo at his peak could rivet an audience, but in this series, he somewhat failed.

Good for 10 minutes or so.

The Giant Spider Invasion (1975)

Eh, give it go!

[10/10 · 28 January 1999]

Well, obviously not a popular film.

However, I believe considering the circumstances in which this film was made, this film not only was made WELL, but outclasses films from the 90s of astronomical BUDGETS.

Although the SPIDER scenes aren't the best, this can be blamed on low budget and low technology.

Good acting from Alan Hale.

He shouldn't be wrongly thought of because of this film.

C'mon people, give it a go?!

Emmanuelle 5 (1987)

Could have been better.

[27 January 1999]

Well, as a small budget film, this one is SATISFACTORY.

In Deutschland, this would be referred to as "Einschlawtizen", meaning "Understandably bad due to budget restrictions".

Although not a full hearted effort, this film may please the 'duller" viewer.

Again, compared to Terminator 2, this doesn't stand 2 feet tall.

MaRX.

Cosa Nostra, Arch Enemy of the FBI (1967 TV Movie)

ICHMEINVOSTEIN.

[27 January 1999]

Don Medford at his best.

This television series of the past is "last ditch effort" TV at its finest.

In Deutschland, such a series would be referred to as, "Ichmeinvostein", translated means, "a quick effort".

Although Medford could have done more with more time, this will do.

Let's hope for some reruns, yeah?

MaRX.

Enemy of the State (1998)

Hmmm. . .

[22 January 1999]

Conspiracy Theory Will Smith Style.

Better than your average Will Smith film.

Gene Hackman was VERY good.

Bit right wing.

But, OK.

Debt (1996–1998)

Quick.

[22 January 1999]

Quick onto the air, quick off the air.

Not much to stay up for.

Give it a miss.

The Heidi Chronicles (1995 TV Movie)

Well, not as good as T2.

[22 January 1999]

This Television Series is what is referred to in Germany as "Bleitz-kreig". Meaning, "Soppy and dull".

If one compares such a series to a film like Terminator 2, one realises that indeed, this is "Bleitz-Kreig".

Give it a miss.

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

FORREST GUMP AIN'T THAT BAD. . .

[10/10 · 22 January 1999]

Well, everyone seems to mention Forrest Gump in their bit about Shawshank.

So, maybe I will, too.

As a Terminator 2 fan, I feel naturally fascinated by The Shawshank Redemption. This film pushes all the buttons of a person with a caring heart.

With a brilliant cast, story line, director and set, this is a master piece rivaled only by T2, Titanic, The Rock, and perhaps Dances with Wolves.

A 8.5/10 from MaRX.