Reviews
Last of the Dogmen (1995)
I loved this movie
I have watched this movie 3 or 4 times and I never tire of it. First, I must say that I am not a big Tom Berenger fan. I just don't think he has a tremendous range. But, this movie is perfect for his ability and his character was totally believable. The scenery and camera work were wonderful and Barbara Hershey does a great job as the academic. The underlying chemistry between she and Berenger's character is very good. It's not Oscar material but a terrific way to spend an evening at home.
Which Way Is Up? (1977)
A Sleeper of a Comedy
This is a remake of a story written by Director, Lina Wertmuller. It is the story of Leroy Jones, played very capably by Richard Pryor. Pryor steals the show here as he plays Leroy, a migrant fruit picker, his grouchy old father and the local minister. It is the story of Leroy, and his accidental rise to management. Leroy is manipulated by "the man", the president of the Agricultural conglomerate that employs Leroy and his friends. It does a very good job of showing just how one can be seduced by the appearance of power. Leroy loses everything that means anything to him in his rise to management at the "company". The segments where Leroy interacts with his "father" are too funny for words. Pryor doesn't have a great range of acting ability but what he does, he does the best.
Blazing Saddles (1974)
Possibly the Best comedy of all times......
Since its theatrical release I have seen this movie more than 20 times and each time, I see something that I missed the previous times because I was laughing so hard that I missed the next line. I am an unfailing Mel Brooks fan having seen all of his films and this is my absolute favorite comedy of all times. No one is safe from his satirical sword and everyone gets it at one time or another. The chemistry between Mel Brooks and Harvey Korman is beautiful. The scene with the Indians and the young Cleavon Little is priceless.
The Green Berets (1968)
Bad Movie, But Entertaining none the less
I have seen this movie at least 5 times, the first being in 1968 when it opened in the theatres. It is classic John Wayne, complete with the required number of action scenes and all the visuals you could want. It just isn't very good. It is technically very poor, most of the special effects are terrible, particularly the scene where John Wayne's helicopter is shot down. It is reminiscent of very poor sci-fi special effects, circa the late 50's. The movie is however, extremely entertaining. I enjoy the unabashed patriotism exuded by the main characters, especially John Wayne and Aldo Ray. If you like action or war movies, this one may be for you. Just don't expect much. " None But the Brave" this ain't.