The reviewers have gotten quite philosophical on this site, it seems!! Trying to dissect this film as though it were... Gone With The Wind! This is classic, but advanced Vaughn. Very subtle, fairly subtle and blatant humor and all out character comedy. Fine mix indeed. I loved it. It wasn't meant to be Shakespeare snooties. Advice: Watch it with captions. I don't normally like doing this as it throws off some of the timing, but these lines are hilarious and you need to see some of them to catch them. A little work, but this movie is worth the thought it takes to laugh yer can off. If you are distracted at all this movie won't work for you. You need to be in it...Daddy.
Reviews
25 Reviews
Premonition
(I) (2007)
Who says you always get to awaken from your dreams...?
4 August 2007
Some of my favorite movies are The Butterfly Effect, Vanilla Sky, and Minority Report - because they take the viewer on a dreamy ride and test our perception and our desire to control the future. Premonition takes you into a confusing restless ride and let's you keep wondering when you will awake. Maybe you don't.. not everyone does. I'm very surprised by the reviewers who must have just sat there and analyzed this movie instead of letting it take them away. I loved the movie. Good moviegoers are good dreamers. Who says you are entitled to wake up from a bad dream and everything makes perfect sense when the sun shines in the morning? What if it doesn't? Those who say they guessed the plot are not being truthful - at all - with themselves. There's nothing to guess. Like any dream - there is no plot through which you can drive a nail. When you're dreaming - just when you think there's a plot - something flat-out plot-less occurs. This movie successfully touches on many slippery and difficult to corral feelings experienced through many peoples lives... like dreaming... like going insane.. like mixed degrees of reality... like uncontrollable paranoia... and like thinking you know the plot of something, where it's headed, and where it should wind up - when you can't possibly.
Hostel
(2005)
Hype really makes the difference on this one...
7 May 2006
The negative reviews really seemed to flow on this movie. I think many people felt duped by the inclusion of Quentin Tarantino's name on this film (I still have not figured his true affiliation with this movie). It may have originally been a ploy to salt the trail and lead viewers - like keyword spamming on ebay - therefore critics are retaliating by overly harsh criticism. This is an interesting movie. Well written and acted. It's a shocking ride. If you are expecting Reservoir Dogs or Pulp Fiction, why? Because somebody mentioned QT's name? Forget it. This is a different movie and certainly NOT trying to be like any other. Many people didn't seem to understand the soft porn galore, but the movie takes place in Amsterdam. Prostitutes REALLY DO advertise by dancing in glass windows along the street and absolutely anything goes. It's for real. Roth didn't invent this stuff he's bringing you in on the real deal. We are in Amsterdam folks. It sets up the premise for the rest of the movie... that... money can get you whatever you desire... and be careful what you wish for. This is a raw, potent and extreme film, not for those afraid to be deeply shocked by things they probably have never imagined... they could imagine. What movies are for anyway!
Hostage
(2005)
Welcome Home Bruce Willis
29 June 2005
Wow, finally, Bruce scores a direct hit with a "Diehardy" genre movie. Multi-faceted and extremely well-executed. Solid action/suspense, strong performances by all, expertly directed, and excellent screenplay. Really moves out from start to finish. Except for Die-hard, Sixth Sense, and The Whole 9 Yards - Willis' films have all seemed to lack balance and scope. He nearly lost me for good with that monkey flick, and then kissing the dude in The Jackal. Forget all that, this one is put together and rounds out nicely. You'll feel like a Hostage for all good moviegoer reasons - you might get free, you might not want it to end. Bruce all is forgiven, I'll even sweep the man kiss under the rug.
Control
(2004)
Won't even realize it has you.
24 February 2005
A killer on death row, his faked death and you are the subject. Presented by brilliant analogy, society's bad habits when it relates to the criminal justice system. Forget the victim? Have mercy on the criminal? Set the criminal free while one vic remains a veggie with a bullet in the brain and the others are pushing daisies? You are trapped from start to finish. We are given all the facts and even made to watch a slow motion scene three times - where the killer shoots an innocent guy in the head - but we quickly forgive all this and sympathize with the criminal. You'll root for the "bad guy", despise the relatives of the victim, loath the guys who want revenge on him for killing their friends, and hope he eludes the team of researchers who decide he really should be dead, after all. You are IN Control.
Interstate 60
(2002)
Not On The Road Map? I'll Say.
11 July 2004
Bob Gale has writing credits on two of my favorite movies, "Back To The Future" and "Used Cars" (Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Kurt Russell - all here for this one). I got lost on Interstate 60. James Marsden doesn't pull the role off very well and his performance spoiled parts of the movie. This has some pretty good quirky characters, Mr. Cody, Tolbert (Deep Stomach), but the casting really hurt this movie. Getting "good" actors, isn't always getting the right actors. Even Gary Oldman and Amy Smart force their roles. "Interstate 60" may have been a decent script and quasi-interesting idea, but it's fades in the early turns and doesn't have much of a median strip to rely upon when the breakdowns occur. Worth watching for the movie it might have been. Don't expect a IMDB 7.7 like I did.
Mystic River
(2003)
One question, anybody else see it? (SPOILERS)
6 July 2004
Warning: Spoilers
This movie is unique and thoughtful. Clint Eastwood is equally integral to this film's success as are the other actors in this strongly talented cast. Eastwood manages to be a powerful force equal to an actual headlining cast appearance. One thing I noticed and can't quite figure. (Spoilers) If you watch the non-talking kidnapper turn around in the car to face young Dave, the direction of the movie makes a very clear point to show us his ring, as he places his hand on the seat. So obvious, I remembered it as a possible clue. When Sean Penn stands barebacked in front of the window while the parade is going on, he has the same cross tattooed onto his back as was depicted on the ring. Hmmm... I pose an open question about this to everyone.
Magnolia
(1999)
Big test the next day, get some sleep.
18 May 2004
I'm incredibly shocked at my intrigue over this monumental work. Noting the high mark of IMDB 8, I came prepared to be highly entertained in the normal movie viewing mode. After a long day, it's surprising I decided to tackle three hour's of anything. My initial encounter and the first 25 minutes baffled me and I shut off the machine. Unnecessary strong language saturated my senses combined with Tom Cruise's seemingly way over the top character. Rapid fire downhill slalom of story lines left me spitting with confusion. I wasn't prepared. First rule. Big test the next day, get some sleep. This applies. You can't expect to be a part of this with one eye open. This is graduate school caliber stuff here. Supreme acting, top-flight directing and all around prime movie-making. Starting out fresh the next day, I gave it another try. The movie assuredly lives up to the mark, but through no means of ordinary drama or experience. One must not be prepared for the run of the mill good stuff. Don't be prepared for anything at all. It'll only hurt. P.T. Anderson's direction is impressive and capable and the why behind this wild endeavor abounding with genuine spunk and determination. No one said graduate school is easy, but if you get in and through, it's the type of experience you will look back on after it's all over and appreciate. You'll appreciate this after it's all done. I have the strange urge to thank somebody for this movie.
Timeline
(2003)
OK class, Let's start from the bottom and work our way down.
10 May 2004
"Timeline" is such a flawed picture, I won't attempt to break it down in any rational sense. There's some chance much better acting and directing might have given this movie at shot at possibly rating "barely fair." As it stands, it's quite poor. Imagine a high school play as a confusing iffy piece of work to begin with, get the worst actors in the class to star, and then go to the rehearsal. That's the caliber of play here. The characters speedily blurt out the lines trying to make them seem dramatic or perilous. It's really bad. If you put this movie and these crusaders against the 1960's Batman, the award for best picture would go to Batman and Robin. There is no merit here whatsoever, don't waste your time or god forbid your money. Unbelievably lame theatrics, kinda doubt I'd flinched had the words "wham" and "ouch" started popping up on my TV screen...
Something's Gotta Give
(2003)
Fresh baked and guaranteed to tickle all your senses.
31 March 2004
Get dramatically landlocked. I was happily trapped for the duration, glued to this tale and literally slapped with a light laugh a minute. Full speed "maximum-strength" Nicholson, he gets to run through all the gears. Cast as the character most love him as, ladies man extraordinaire. All the characters gel beautifully. Well written and acted, spawning thoroughly enjoyable entertainment. Characters who reveal themselves to the viewer in such a measured way we truly seem to understand a part of them. Then they are shaken up and mixed several different ways, so that their bold and unpredictable reactions, are both expected and unexpected. The special attribute this movie has above others like it, is it's ability to skirt complication. Equipped with the ability to lay on a very meaty dramatic interlude with light ingredients. Two thumbs up.
Behind Enemy Lines
(2001)
Action For C-i-v-i-l-i-a-n-s (100% spoiler free)
22 March 2004
Warning: Spoilers
Apparently this movie has attracted militaryheads and is being overly bashed by, shhhh, "people-in-the-know" expecting military accuracy to detail and realism. The kid asked me for my Blockbuster membership card not my military ID, when I rented it last night. This is a Hollywood action fiction compilation - I watched it as such, and thereby, enjoyed it as such. If you're not Tom Clancy, you too might enjoy sitting back and checking out this fairly decent movie. Fully equipped with an interesting sense of urgency keeping it rolling along. You feel like you're trying to catch-up to Wilson as he keeps moving in the direction he hopes will lead him to safety. May even find yourself panting with him while he runs. So what, a lot of bullets from abundant automatic weapons missed Wilson as he played out this dare, and guess what... None of them hit me on my couch either. Go figure.
Swimming Pool
(2003)
...very sly trick, indeed.(Giveaways/Spoilers)
22 January 2004
Warning: Spoilers
Tremendous thought provoking gem. I praise the writer of this clever movie. When we see the answers to certain hard questions, most times things become obvious and quite simple. Nice job of immersing viewers into a "trick" plot and revealing the obvious. In the end, we understand why certain aspects of the film were so imaginative and loose. Once the ending impressed itself upon me, I experienced a sort of flash rewind of the entire film, and was pleasantly overwhelmed. Makes one ponder what the likes of Elmore Leonard, John Grisham, Stephen King and all other successful writers really "see" when they produce their colorful yarns.
Second Nature
(2003 TV Movie)
Pure Alec Baldwin, highly recommended.
19 January 2004
A most intriguing action/thriller. The movie is extremely watchable - partly thanks to it's made for TV rating and gearing is about perfect. Not an overly complicated film. Alec Baldwin is cast ala "Teacher" in George Dawes Green's The Juror. He's a nebulous assassin type, keeps you guessing, but you know he has skill and know how. The refreshing part is you aren't sure what motivates him or where he got his training or why. Baldwin is king of this style casting. If you like action where get spoon feed and learn as the movie goes, you'll like this. I don't see anyone really guessing where this is headed while you view the movie. Too unique. Throws a high punch and while you see that coming, catches you in the stomach with a quick jab. I've always been a fan of programs like Magnum PI and Simon and Simon, and this movie caters to speed and plot like these shows did so well. As good as any other "7" action flick for my rental dollar.
Crime Spree
(2003)
Is the movie I watched in the right DVD Box?
11 January 2004
Saw this last night in the "New Releases" with Harvey Keitel listed and jumped on it, having read no reviews whatsoever. My mind was wide open. Thankfully, after an hour and a half, my DVD player was wide open. This movie is lame. An animal seriously wounded, dragging itself, foaming at the mouth... I recognize the effort expended, but the humor has less fizz than a month old two-liter of Tab. The storyline, at some point before filming this, may have been OK - but, it is completely ruined by the acting and complete lack of direction. A live performance would have done just as well, because I doubt there were many badly needed retakes. I can't decide if the drama is "so what?" or "say what?" Did I miss something to be left out of the joke loop. I have loved Keitel in the past, so it pains me to say it, but he reminded me of "Deniro trying to do Deniro." A very awkward wiseguy routine for him in this movie. I fully expected to see this on the IMDB this morning with a 4 point something rating. Currently 6.5? I re-checked the DVD box. Yup, the right movie is in there. I'm really amazed. As for my fellow reviewers who thought this was "hilarious" and "wickedly funny" - you should be writing reviews for nitrous oxide containers.
Black Cat Run
(1998 TV Movie)
Give it a dance.
4 January 2004
"That boy's dumber than a barrel of hair," actually an unexpectedly funny line from the movie. Some one-of-a-kinds. This movie isn't necessarily a mystery (as IMDB listed), not necessarily an action/drama as stored at Movie Gallery, and surprisingly by the laughs I got, isn't necessarily a comedy. It will not win any awards, but it's a bunch of entertainment in one box! Did anyone take Smokey and the Bandit seriously - besides people who went out and bought black Trans Ams - but, it was great for two hours of looks. And so is "Black Cat Run." Warning: Overwhelming shoot 'em in the head violence, but there's lots going on here and the gore just comes and goes - not as revolting as you would guess. Jake Busey adds more than his annoying character takes away. There were a couple of reviews I ignored when I gave this movie a dance. If you even remotely like squealing tires, dusty car chases, or a guy fighting for his girl, dance a little baby.
Under Suspicion
(2000)
Ending "explained" in detail (Obviously spoilers).
25 November 2003
Warning: Spoilers
Okay, I commented on this movie once a few days ago, encouraging viewers to go and watch it and not try to learn too much before seeing it, so as not to tarnish their perceptions. So many are troubled by the ending and don't understand. No doubt, it makes you think and doesn't hand over instant satisfaction or relief from the conflict. Does life always. Well, here's the importance and brilliance of the ending. Henry is like many of us. Little parts of our lives taken out of context or thrown into the wrong context could leave us having to "explain." More than one part, public embarrassment, a mixture of betrayal and enough suspicion could put you in Henry's shoes. To highlight. The dog. The dog ran with him like most times. But he didn't meet the dog like usual, rather the dog met him on the trail. Even Henry first recalled it happened like always until he really remembered it hadn't. But the dog was there and the dog found the girl. The dog's owner says otherwise. Camille. Nothing really happened with Camille. But now, like the dog, it looks suspicious to investigators. His wife always thought so and made it part of Henry's nightly problem before this ever surfaced. Something so familiar to him, he blurted out a denial before his wife ever brought it to investigator's attention. Now they make it their business to discover all they can about this from her, and get her side naturally. Henry visited websites, innocently like many of us, but now the police see the pornsites he looked at while he believed things were private and now he must explain. He is a prolific photographer. As photographer's always do - he shot many rolls of indiscriminate film and not surprising (by itself) captured some of the victims at some point. The victims were public people (which is part of why they became victims) and Henry had an abundance of pictures related to these scenes around him. All this suspicion and pressure, and his wife and the "lengths she went to" as Henry said, when learning she dug through his darkroom and discovered photos he didn't even realize he owned. Then she gave them to the police. He stands as the only one saying aside from all this, he didn't do the murders. He looks at the mirror and tells his wife to "come in here and face me." Given all his thoughts and feelings, even he decides to go along with everyone. He gives up. Doesn't care. He's the last one to join the parade. It all played out and he tosses his hand. Begins his false confession which is fueled by facts he learned from listening to the interrogators over the last few hours. (He never suspected his wife did the murders as some have said). Then an undisputable circumstance rears it's head and suddenly everyone pulls the weight of suspicion away from Henry. For the first time they are on his side. He's "free" but really far worse off than he ever was because of all the things he realized about his life. He's has to accept who and where he is, whether deserved or undeserved. As viewer's we became an integral part of directing suspicion towards Henry, we too began thinking and agreeing about his guilt. We too, wanted to find the shred of evidence that made him "100% guilty." It isn't there, nor was it ever - just like Henry said. The character's in the film are deflated, confused and unhappy with the ending - just like you are!!
Under Suspicion
(2000)
Avoid reading the reviews, just plug yourself into this movie.
23 November 2003
Warning: Spoilers
DO NOT read the reviews. STOP... Go watch this movie! The reviews will absolutely ruin this movie for you. Spoilers or not, just the comments about certain aspects of the film will overpower your perspective. You are in the hands of an excellent cast and director waiting to entertain you for the evening, open your mind. You won't be disappointed unless you try to ensure you won't be disappointed by learning too much, i.e. anything more than the trailer for this film offers. You should never allow your brain to intellectually acquaint itself with all the ingredients of a superb dish - before it has the opportunity to meet them through the use of your senses. If you're in a great restaurant, it's okay to look over the menu, but don't ask to study the recipes until you've tried the food.
It Runs in the Family
(2003)
I'd say the "bar's not set very high."
9 November 2003
The "best" line in the movie and used in the trailer leading one to think it set an interesting tone for this movie. "It Runs In The Family" has some very basic problems which significantly disappointed me. The Douglas Family - they're all here, Michael, his son Cameron, and his mom and dad, both Kirk and Diana. The compilation of these people is obviously the sole reason this movie was ever made - it's was just enough to pawn the whole thing off. The problem? Cameron is an unappealing actor, a flawed young Sean Penn wannabe, and Kirk due to his unfortunate real life stroke, cannot speak well. The movie makes an excuse for Kirk's ANNOYING speech impediment, by giving his character the same problem he has in real life. This excuse does not forgive subjecting the viewer to such awkward dialogue the full length of their rental fee. You will feel both these actors are clearly forced upon you strictly because of their last name. Bernadette Peters adds nothing to this movie. She's poorly cast into a role as Michael Douglas's spouse, and given the free passes handed out with the other roles, seems stuck, but rolls her eyes and goes along with the mess. There were many reasons Michael Douglas gave this a shot, but even his relative brilliance can't bring the other "relatives" into focus. In no way is this "On Golden Pond" - rather it's about as much fun as stepping into a puddle.
Hollywood Homicide
(2003)
What section will Blockbuster place this after it's no longer a "new" release?
14 October 2003
I counted way too much on the potential of this film being "a good one" with Harrison Ford being the ace up the sleeve. None of his strong suits get played during this movie. Rather, the idea of him being wasted bothered me throughout the film as ultimately we the viewers get exploited by his involvement. The biggest problem (out of many - including lame acting, lackluster script, and failure to develop any one strong plot) is this movie cannot decide if it's a comedy, drama or action genre. While this trait could be refreshing in some cases, not here, because it tries to go way too far in each of these directions. In one given evening, would you ever be in the mood to sit through a hilarious comedy, then a gripping drama, then a mind blowing action flick? Even if they were all great you probably wouldn't unless you were in a body cast, try watching three bad ones. When the writing began for this movie it was doomed, the plot is illogical and the characters never get close to the viewer. Some of the most misplaced dialogue imaginable. Now the only thing I can figure is, the original idea was meant to be "Indiana Jones goes to Hollywood" because there are plenty of Hollywood location shots and some Indy-ish spoofy behavior. If you think about it, those movies mixed genres and did so in legendary fashion. It's the only logical explanation somebody could have had for attempting this and a big boulder should have chased everyone off the set before anyone could yell "that's a take." I can guarantee you will be highly annoyed by the cellphone ringers that interrupt from start to finish, and while you may laugh a little, have a fleeting interest here or there, rivet yourself momentarily to a couple of the action parts, it'll be more akin to successful channel surfing than being involved in a meaningful way. And trust me - you'll want to surf before it's all over.
The Life of David Gale
(2003)
Other commentators...WHY all the soapboxers? (Good one, NO Spoilers)
26 July 2003
I rent too many movies, and somewhat embarrassingly, am treated like a cartoon deity at Blockbuster because of all the dough I drop there on an all-too-regular-basis. When I say, "The Life Of David Gale" is one of the most intense and worthwhile movies I've rented in awhile, that has quite the mileage and bite to make a strong positive statement. This movie generates some serious viewer involvement, and will lead you quite effectively in particular directions leaving you vulnerable and wide open for it's twists and suspenseful plot development. Spacey is perfect in the role of David Gale, while his intellect shines "as the professor" during flashback sequences - his demeanor and approach as the death row inmate draws the viewer into an emotionally confusing relationship with his character, setting up the substantial twists. Winslet is right on the mark in quality acting, believability and dialogue. In reading other users comments, why all the soapbox jockeys? This movie isn't attempting to be political nor is it trying to make a statement about the death penalty. Instead it cleverly uses the emotionally charged backdrop of such issues and groups to supply the moviegoer with a level of understanding of that venue to enhance suspense and overall entertainment. Extremely well-directed as we start off very confused and are gradually and methodically informed of the circumstances. We learn at a perfectly suitable pace to keep our attention fixed for the entire movie. Ever had a friend call you up and start right off with, "You are NOT going to believe what happened today!" Know the feeling you have when you answer "Really, what happened?" Well, be prepared of 131 minutes of the same curiosity and wonderment. When you find out what happened you won't be disappointed. A solid 8/10.
The Recruit
(2003)
Fresh out of the box
3 June 2003
Reading a healthy scoop of the recent "comments" I was expecting a let down of a flick. No way. FIRST - a fresh "new material" approach to the modern spy genre. SECOND - highly augmented by the talented cast. The storyline and the cast go together nicely. The viewer is always one step behind, but never lost, and you catch up just before the next turn. Lots of turns. As some have said incorrectly, this is NOT a "sleeparama" or boring movie, it's not about "computer geeks", nothing is overtly wrong with the lighting, and if you are paying attention the conclusion was very good - a conclusion for the viewer - a stop where the viewer gets off the ride, but the ride goes on. This movie will not be one the masses will rave about in 20 years. If you're in for something covering new ground and want a few hours of entertainment or if you even like Pacino just a little, no doubt, enjoy.
Finding Graceland
(1998)
C'mon, lets go cat!
13 February 2002
This movie was a lot of fun. If you're an Elvis fan you will surely like the ride to Graceland. It taps into the mystery surrounding Elvis in ways I've never seen before. The characters are a little emotionally strung out but it creates a sense of bonding between them that draws the viewer into the gig. Enjoyable movie, and some great scenery too. From out west, to gambling in Tunica Mississippi, to crying on Elvis's carpet inside Graceland. Priscilla was an advisor to the film and allowed some intimate participation from the estate. Harvey Keitel is a HOOT! Thumbs up and "thank you ver.." ...alright I won't.
Forever Lulu
(2000)
High School Masterpiece
7 January 2002
What was Patrick Swayze thinking here, he may have very well hit his head one too many times in one of those rumored drunken plane episodes. This movie sounded WOW! on paper, had a promising cast, but was put together and written unbelievably lame. Scene-by-scene, decent even good acting, but put into context nothing seemed to jive. The characters were compelled to be together by nothing more than the script, real life could have never fueled so much awkward interaction and endeavor. Any hope the storyline had was completely lost in execution and directing. There were times I heard cameramen groaning. It was great by high school play standards, but less fun. The cross country trip felt like one. Michael J. Pollard (C.W. Moss from 1967's Bonnie and Clyde) was a potential completely misused in this film. My mailman could have played his part. As A hitchhiker with merely a couple of great lines like "can I get in the front seat" and "you're really one crazy lady" his character makes it one mile down the interstate before Griffith kicks him out. I should have gotten out where he did.
Flawless
(1999)
A struggle to witness
25 November 2001
This is one of those movies you hate to bash because it definitely has it's merits and should be viewed by some, not necessarily everyone. Hoffman and Deniro are both struggling in their roles on screen and the viewer will struggle to follow as well. There's a message and anyone interested in alternate lifestyles will enjoy the peek. We all have alternate lifestyles when you get down to it. I'm a big Deniro fan and his role is a twist as expectations of him go. Worthwhile like visiting the zoo can be - never absolutely outstanding, but seldom completely boring. Like the student who shows up everyday and participates, it gets a passing grade.
Very entertaining and uniquely funny
24 November 2001
This movie gets up and running quickly and will take you along for a very fun ride. Witty and well thought out humor, quite different from typical movies. Adults will be entertained and treated with plenty of catchy comedy while children of all ages will be amused by the likeable characters and charismatic predicaments. A big thumbs up, and if it's feel good (and clean) comedy you want, I really tag this as a 10.
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