ladylynch Reviews

Permanent Record (1988)

Actually a pretty decent movie

[7/10 · 29 May 2004]

Well . . .this was a complete fluke for me. I was at K-Mart with a friend, and I saw this for $3.49. I figured you could hardly rent a movie for that, and the plot interested me. Having lost a friend to suicide myself, I found the movie to be very honest and real in its emotion and messages. While some of the acting was pretty B-grade, it wasn't that bad considering the obviously low budget. AND I'm shocked to say Keanu Reeves wasn't at all bad--in fact, he was quite good (and I'm not a fan)! Overall, I'd definitely recommend this movie and say it was well worth the money I paid--in fact, I'd have paid more. I'm really pleasantly surprised (for once) and glad I got the movie.

Waiting for Guffman (1996)

HAHAHA

[10/10 · 12 February 2004]

I love how somebody said that Waiting for Guffman has a "cheap reference to Something About Mary." I seriously laughed my A** off! Waiting for Guffman was made in 1996, and Something About Mary was made in 1998. Think before you write such silly things. (hehehe)

BTW--One of the best comedies ever. I already wrote a rave review.

Dreamcatcher (2003)

um . . .ok??

[3 October 2003]

Someone said that this film is for "diehard King fans." Well, I can tell you, I am a DIEHARD DIEHARD Stephen King fan. I love him, always have always will. I was a literature major in college and defended him to the end against literary snobs who think he's second rate. I think he's the best writer alive today. HOWEVER . . .that being said, I think this movie really sucked. First of all, most King movies either CAPTURE his voice, or they don't. This one did not even come CLOSE. It had none of his humor, sarcasm, or wittiness. It was just Terminator with a twist. The novel is so much better, with so much more depth. If you ARE a diehard King fan, read the book, but don't see the movie. It's a disgrace to the King. (hehe)

Longtime Companion (1989)

JOE PESCI???

[10/10 · 3 October 2003]

I am just in shock . . .I know I have already commented on this film, but I just happened to look up the 1991 Oscars and realize that Bruce Davidson was beaten by JOE PESCI. What were they thinking?????? What a joke! Watch this movie . . .Bruce Davidson is amazing.

Longtime Companion (1989)

outstanding

[10/10 · 25 May 2003]

Some say this movie may be "malinformed," but the misinformation contained in the movie were things that people really thought or feared when AIDS first became a public threat. No one really understood what it was or how it was transferred, and the movie does an outstanding job of portraying that.

Secondly, someone mentioned that it is too sweet and corny in the way it deals with the gay couples. The point is this--if you saw a movie full of married heterosexual couples who were all dealing with something like, say, miscarriage, would you have reacted in the same way? I am so tired sometimes with the way movies recently like to portray gay couples as hedonistic party animals who are never faithful to one another and run at the first sign of conflict. The couples in this movie were what made me LOVE it. It doesn't really matter what gender/sexuality/race/creed/etc. people are . . .what matters is the way they show love to one another, and this movie was truly a beautiful example of that. I thought every relationship was realistic, and watching the movie made me feel so proud of all the actors, cast, crew, writing, directing . . .proud of EVERYONE who worked on this film, because it is truly an amazing testament to human love and sacrifice. 10/10

Rose Red (2002)

A Novel on Film

[10/10 · 25 April 2003]

Someone said this was "too long" and made the comment that longer books don't translate well to screen. However, if they knew anything about Rose Red, they would know that it was never a book. It was written directly for the screen by Stephen King. As I watched the film, I kept thinking how much it was like a novel come to life! Then I was watching the featurette "The Making of Rose Red" on the DVD and Stephen King as well as the director said that it was really just a novel that was played out on screen. It is so true! I am an avid fan of King's work, and this film was a real treat, because it was just like reading one of his books. It it not SUPPOSED to be your typical 90 minute work (as King says, he feels like that is similar to stealing all the towels in the hotel room and then quickly packing them into your bag and sitting on it to try to force them to stay in). It is much more character driven and rich, and takes much more attention than a regular film does. That is WHY it was a 3 part series!

If you are willing to put forth the effort--and I mean this as a COMPLIMENT to the film, for it really is like reading a novel--then you will love it. 10/10 from me!

Holes (2003)

Thumbs Up---Way Up!

[10/10 · 19 April 2003]

If you've read the brilliant book "Holes," by Louis Sachar, you will most likely agree that this movie was one of the best book to film transitions of all time. I was so thankful to see that Sachar also wrote the screenplay, because the story was great to begin with, and I did not want another writer to mess it up, frankly. From start to finish, this movie is excellent and completely captures the setting, characters, and feeling of the book. Especially outstanding was the actor who played Hector "Zero" Zeroni. I rated this movie a 10/10 and would recommend it to anyone who has either read the book, plans to read it, or can watch with an open mind and pay attention to tiny details because they will be important later on.

Barbershop (2002)

breaks all the stereotypes

[10/10 · 19 January 2003]

This was a funny, poignant movie that broke all the usual stereotypes one tends to see in comedy. The characters were all vivid and real, and the acting was outstanding. Ice Cube was particularly good, as was Cedric the Entertainer. A definite must-see!

Rose Red (2002)

great job!

[10/10 · 9 September 2002]

This was an awesome classic King story. It was a lot of fun to watch. The acting was GREAT, esp. by Julian Sands. Some of the effects were awesome, and it wasn't cheesy (except when it was intended to be) And a super cameo by King himself as the pizza delivery man! All around good experience. 8/10

Series 7: The Contenders (2001)

a shambling attempt at satire

[1/10 · 26 July 2002]

Every single movie I have ever ranked on IMDB I have given a 10 to. That is because I love movies. I gave this movie . . .drumroll . . .a one. 1 out of 10. Why? Because it is the most putrid filth I have ever wasted my time on.

The acting? What acting? The acting is more laughable than if my friends and I were to make our own daytime soap opera. Drunk.

Seriously, the acting in this movie made me feel sick to my stomach.

Direction? Again . . .I don't think I can even say there was much direction to this film, though I suppose somewhere in the back of someone's pea-sized brain they may have thought this movie would be clever or satirical. Unfortunately, they were sadly mistaken.

Please don't waste your time watching this movie. I even have to admit that PART of me liked shows like "Big Brother" and "Survivor." So those who say "if you like reality tv you'll love this movie" have to be joking. This movie was the biggest waste of film I have ever had the unfortunate experience of watching.

Again . . .just to remind you . . .1/10.

Grace of My Heart (1996)

beautiful movie

[10/10 · 26 July 2002]

First of all, this was NOT a "Carole King biopic." The character is called Denise Waverly, NOT Carole King. The character was loosely based on Carole King, just as other characters were LOOSELY based on people from the era.

Secondly, phony soundtrack? Ummmmmm . . .ok, wanna check out the composers on the soundtrack??

Finally, calling Ileanna Douglas a "dog" or "ugly" was perhaps the stupidest comment I have EVER seen on IMDB, and believe me, I've seen many stupid comments. Not only is she beautiful, she is also a wonderful actress who does an amazing job in this film. AND even if she was "ugly" (not my words), why should that hinder your enjoyment of the film? Give me a break.

If you don't like a film, at least do us all the favor of giving good reasons and at least ATTEMPT to make intelligent comments rather than the half-baked crap we see here.

This film was excellent. The soundtrack was amazing, the actors were even more amazing. 10/10

O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

Awesome Movie!

[10/10 · 13 July 2002]

I never, EVER will get tired of watching this movie. It is absolutely awesome. The acting, writing, direction, costumes, and filmography are all TOP of the line!

Some comments here . . .well, wow. If you didn't like that film, I'm sorry for you. You're obviously missing out on a lot in life.

Empire of the Sun (1987)

Amazing Film

[10/10 · 13 July 2002]

This has been one of my favorite films since I first saw it as a young adolescent. I have seen it many, many times and am still moved by its beauty.

The acting in this movie is simply incredible. Christian Bale blows my mind--he is phenomenal! The rest of the cast is brilliant as well.

I think this is Spielberg's best movie.

People who can't seem to enjoy the beauty of a film make me sad--perhaps you should stop being so cynical and relax a little. You might find that you'll get a bit more joy out of life.

Pi (1998)

Truly Inspirational

[10/10 · 20 May 2002]

After watching Pi, I was inspired to get back to work on my own screenplay. I only wish I had the talent Aronofski has. What an amazing piece of ART! This is not just a movie, it's a brilliant, coherent, stunningly filmed piece of genius. I am very impressed and looking forward to more by Darren Aronofski (I have also seen Requiem for a Dream). My vote: 10 out of 10.

Mulholland Drive (2001)

Absolutely amazing direction and cinematography!

[10/10 · 5 January 2002]

I am a huge David Lynch fan, and recently saw Mulholland Drive. All I can say is . . .WOW. Truly some of his very best work. The movie was visually stunning, and the sound was amazing. As usual, Badalamenti's music lent the perfect atmosphere. If Lynch doesn't get an Oscar nod this year, I'll have to stop watching them altogether. A brilliant film!

Hilary and Jackie (1998)

Absolutely brilliant

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

This movie is intelligent, intense, shocking, and overall a brilliant film. I am a musician, and I thought Emily Watson's performance was incredible. She obviously studied the real Jackie very closely and did a wonderful job of conveying her unique playing style. Rachel Griffiths was also phenomenal. Some people feel it is slow-moving, and perhaps it is, but it is beautiful and realistic. Don't expect excitement and suspense, or hilarity, or dramatic Hollywood epic sadness. It is a phenomenal, gorgeous movie, and deserves a 10 of 10!

Shakespeare in Love (1998)

Call me crazy . . .

[3/10 · 4 August 2000]

But I just can't jump on the bandwagon for this one. I did enjoy the movie, but I don't believe it was the Oscar winning masterpiece that it has become. It was funny, enjoyable, romantic, and had some great performances, most notably Judy Dench and Geoffrey Rush. But it was very cliche, and the romance offered nothing original--just more Hollywood mush. I love Shakespeare (who doesn't), but somehow I would prefer to see his life realistically depicted, than portrayed by beautiful young Hollywood stars. Gwyneth Paltrow played the exact same character she plays in every single movie she is in. The Oscars weren't cheap, though . . .they were bought with over 6 million in promotional costs. And it worked!

I hate to be cynical, but I don't think they were truly earned. I am sorry to offend . . .if you like the movie, that's wonderful. It is obviously very popular, so perhaps I am in the wrong. I just felt it to be sickeningly commercial.

Elizabeth (1998)

Cate Blanchett was robbed!

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

In an incredible performance, Cate Blanchett presents Queen Elizabeth to us as her supporting cast also performs brilliantly. I cannot believe this movie was so overlooked at the Oscars for the big-money movie "Shakespeare in Love," which incidentally, I also liked, but I don't think it compares to this epic. I am not usually a big fan of historical epics, but this was such a compelling story I absolutely ADORED it.

Life Is Beautiful (1997)

A truly remarkable testament

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

Words cannot adequately express how I feel about this movie. It moved me in ways no other film has EVER done. I have seen Benigni's other films, and am a fan, but he far surpassed himself with this one. You absolutely MUST see it in the original Italian with subtitles. Otherwise it appears foolish and disjointed. It is such an original story, using humor to deal with the darkest of situations. Not only is it a story of a father's greatest gift to his son, but it is a film about LIFE in the face of all adversity.

Boogie Nights (1997)

A groundbreaking, original story

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

Not for those easily offended, this movie breaks new ground with its look at the dark AND light sides of the porn industry. The first time I watched it, I really didn't like it. But after the second watching (getting over my initial shock) I LOVED it and have seen it over and over since. It encompasses so many different emotions, while evoking sympathy for people (i.e. Dirk Diggler) see themselves as "stars" who are making a good life for themselves. It is very realistic and covers everything from drug use to suicide to homosexuality to child pornography. The movie truly opens one's eyes to many aspects of this type of lifestyle. Burt Reynolds, for once (in my opinion, sorry if you are a big fan) is brilliant, Mark Wahlberg is brilliant, as are Phillip Seymour Hoffman, John C. Reilly, and William H. Macy. The movie is a must see for those who can deal with very direct and realistic language and graphic sexuality.

Waiting for Guffman (1996)

A truly intelligent comedy

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

This movie is brilliant! I was a theatre major in college, and I now teach high school drama. I have seen ALL of these character types in the small productions I have participated in. It is misguided to say that Guest is criticizing anyone by making this film. We love to laugh at ourselves! And isn't there that small part of all of us (i.e. Eugene Levy) that believes we could actually make it big in show business? I don't believe everyone will like this film, because unfortunately people have become accustomed to a different type of humor. HOWEVER, if you crave cleverness and Christopher Guest's unique brand of humor . . .you will absolutely adore this movie.

Shine (1996)

A stunning film

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

This movie is definitely in my top five favorite movies of all time. It is unbelievably brilliant. Geoffrey Rush, dare I say, is perhaps the greatest actor of modern times. His performance alone is worth watching, let alone the outstanding supporting cast! Definitely not in typical Hollywood fashion, the movie is a truly great indie film. A must see for music lovers and indie film lovers alike.

Muriel's Wedding (1994)

Gee, guys, it's not Adam Sandler . . .

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

But that's why I love it. It's sad to me that this movie is so underappreciated; however, I guess at the same time I am glad it's not a "mainstream" movie. It's appeal is limited to those who enjoy cleverness over gross-out humor, intelligent dialogue over bad language and bad one-liners, and in general, people who love brilliant cinema rather than Hollywood fluff. If you haven't seen it, don't expect "Something About Mary" or the likes. It is a WONDERFUL, truly brilliant movie that is as sad as it is clever. A DEFINITE 10 of 10!!

The Piano (1993)

Definitely one of the best movies ever!

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

This movie's worth cannot really be expressed in words. It is an intensely moving, incredibly brilliant film. The cast is exceptional, the story is compelling, the music is awe inspiring, and the setting is gorgeous. Thank you, thank you, thank you for such a wonderful movie.

Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992)

If you love David Lynch, a must see

[10/10 · 4 August 2000]

Those who haven't seen the series don't seem to like this movie. Well, no wonder! It's not the type of film the general public can go enjoy while contentedly munching popcorn. BUT if you love Twin Peaks and David Lynch, you will love this movie. It truly displays the genius of Lynch.