vanorten312 Reviews

Something Wild (1961)

incredible acting evokes pity for not too likable characters

[8/10 · 24 September 2006]

I remember watching this movie when i was in grade school and getting reprimanded by parents for viewing an"adult" film. I have seen it through various stages of my life and still find it intriguing. Both Mike and Maryann are not endearing characters and have many physical and psychological problems. When I say they deserve one another;I don't mean it in a harsh way, but rather a statement of practicality. We are not shed too much light on their past, but know it is affecting their present. Only with the help and love of each other can they survive their all too bleak future. The filming in black and white certainly adds to the dreariness of their situations. They are not "people" persons, but seem to have respect and commiseration for one another. Though Mike (RalphMeeker) seems to be controlling and possessive, it is something Maryann unconsciously needs. He builds her stamina and literally sharpens her survival skills. Maryann had problems before the rape as seen in flashbacks of her school and home life. Mike seems to be more mysterious, living a desolate and pitiful existence..only confiding to her that she is his last chance. It is only through their incredible acting that you forgive their shortcomings.

Unleashed (2005)

This karate movie is actually mainstream drama. The story is intense and powerful. You commiserate with the characters.

[9/10 · 15 August 2006]

I was reluctant at first to watch this movie because it looked like a typical guy/karate movie. After reading that Morgan Freeman costarred; I became curious. I sat thru the obligatory fight scenes mesmerized by the drama it contained. The plot at times can be compared to a modern day Oliver Twist(orphan taken in by kind folks,has life improved, kidnapped back to hard life,triumph at end and lives happily ever after)I ended up buying the DVD I was so impressed. The funny thing is that all the females I showed it to..love it. They all are emotionally involved with the characters and pity them. Again, too bad there is so so so much fighting (ad nausea) It could have been a dramatic romance if Jet Li hadn't been a big kung fu name. I especially enjoyed the relationship Danny had with Victoria. Their piano duets were endearing. This movie actually portrayed a 17 year old girl as a 17 year old student. She was not glamorized or sexualized. Her innocence and talent illuminated while she was on screen. The movie depicted natural beauty among the characters and good triumphed over evil.