cleoew Reviews

The Plumber (1979 TV Movie)

Quirky, interesting off-beat thriller

[10 September 2011]

Having caught this recently on TCM, I had actually never heard of this film before. Filmed in the latter 70s and made for TV, it is the story of Jill Cowper, a very educated anthropologist, who encounters an extremely strange plumber named Max. Unsolicited, he somehow appears at her door after Brian, her scientist/nutritionist husband, is away from the apartment (and repeatedly appears at her door when she is alone). Upon first appearance and for several instances following, I couldn't help but laugh at his bizarre antics in the bathroom. From the singing, hooting, hollering, squealing, and singing into the shower head, it was definitely a strange appearance to the woman that let him in. He appears to purposefully break out tiles and mangle the plumbing, so that he can continue to come and "work." Her husband pays quite little attention to the matter as she tries to relay her sincere fears about this disturbed individual. Even her good friend, Meg, seems to brush off what most people would think is a very dangerous situation. Also woven into the story is a clash of social classes. At least from the Max the plumber's viewpoint, who rails on about rich people, capitalism, elitism vs. his quite humble profession and education. One that left him self-conscious about his grammar, among other things. Eventually, Jill transitions from being somewhat friendly in a standoffish fashion, to being fearful and scared, to then becoming annoyed, followed by angry, culminating in her taking matters into her own hands. This is one of those films that abruptly just stops, and I would have wished it ended in a more detailed fashion, but nonetheless, it was well worth the watch. A bit of a thriller, mixed in with quirky humor and a dash of societal commentary.

Jennifer 8 (1992)

Very underrated gem

[8/10 · 17 November 2007]

"Jennifer Eight" is one of those movies that flies under the radar. For whatever reason, it never got the accolades I feel it deserves. It is a beautifully filmed, haunting movie that showcases some very fine performances. Uma Thurman is remarkable as the blind Helena, and one would be hard pressed to find fault with her very realistic performance as the would-be next victim for the serial killer. Likewise, Andy Garcia, is excellent as the tough, big city cop who is working through his own personal issues. One of the most compelling performances is that of John Malkovich. Arguably one of the best actors we have today, his commanding depiction of the hard-grilling FBI man is superb, and worth the watch just for his few cameos alone. But don't get me wrong. This movie is very, very good. It will leave you guessing to the end. Overall, beautiful cinematography, beautiful score, great thriller. Highly recommend this underrated gem. Very much worth the viewing.

Let's Scare Jessica to Death (1971)

A forgotten gem

[9/10 · 20 January 2007]

This is one of those rare gems that never got the accolades from the mass public other horror films (Halloween, Friday the 13th, etc) garnered. I saw this as a kid and it scared the bejesus out of me. Some 30 years later, I still love this film. Dated, yes, but it possesses a strange creepiness that you almost can't put your finger on. Its premise is of a man and wife starting life anew in a small town. The wife Jessica, played wonderfully by Zohra Lampert, has recently recovered from a nervous breakdown. They decide to move out of the hustle and bustle of the big city to a small apple farm and bring their friend with them. From the onset, Jessica clearly struggles with her past demons and tries to convince herself that her mental breakdown was in the past. She starts to question everything she sees as to whether it's real or not. They get to their new home, only to find a strange girl occupying their property. The girl, Emily, played by Mariclare Costello, is truly frightening and plays the role of this mysterious girl to perfection. To anyone under the age of, perhaps 35, this movie will most likely do nothing for you. It is from the 70s and IT SHOWS, it contains no CGI, no bloody slasher gore, no "strap them down in a chair and torture them" scenes, and no famous big name people. It is a quiet, intense ride where you have to actually FEEL the emotions that grip Jessica. I've read comments here where others think it's lame, or complain about Lampert's clothes. How clothes can affect someone's view of this movie floors me, but whatever. This movie isn't lame. It's a classic gem of a thriller in a sea of garbage that's churned out by Hollywood these days. I think I'm going to go watch it now!

Skeletons on the Zahara (2006 TV Movie)

Absolutely mind-blowing

[10/10 · 13 January 2007]

I am an avid History Channel fan. I came across "Skeletons on the Zahara" very recently and can't express how astounded I was that I have never heard of Captain James Riley, his crew, the Commerce and their plight. Taking place in 1814/1815, this story is a completely riveting, horrifying true account of what befell this Connecticut captain and his crew as they set sail for Africa in hopes of acquiring salt to bring home for trade in the post War of 1812 economy. Upon encountering heavy fog, the Commerce and its crew unknowingly hit the west coast of Northern Africa, which resulted in tearing their vessel apart. It is their plight following this shipwreck that will leave you wondering how they survived the phenomenally brutal conditions of not only their slavery to the Muslim men who took them captive, but the Sahara Desert itself. It is a true testimony to the human spirit. I was glued to the TV the entire two hours. I highly, highly recommend you see this. It will stay with you long after the show is over.

A Christmas Carol (1938)

"I'd like to stroke it!"

[7/10 · 13 December 2006]

Although not a masterpiece, I love this version of Dickens' classic, A CHRISMAS CAROL. With its many shortcomings, I like to think of this as the happy, feel good version. Reginald Owen tries too hard to be mean and cranky, and his theatrical makeup is just plain terrible, as are some of his lines (ie. the silly dialog between he and the ghost of Christmas present on the streets with the horn). The score equally reflects the more light-hearted nature of this film, and provides none of the depth and eeriness present in the king of all kings version with Alastair Sim (1951). The liberties taken with the storyline are also amusing, but seem right at home for 1930s Hollywood for some reason. Scrooge's nephew Fred, played by the wonderful Barry MacKay, is perhaps my favorite Fred in all versions. His infectious good-nature keeps this film upbeat and non-threatening. The Lockharts also add a warm, familial strength, although Gene and Kathleen seem far too happy considering their predicament in life. Perhaps the most criticism I can attach to it is that Terry Kilburn is the most irritating/annoying of all the Tiny Tims to date. That being said, there is, however, something very pleasing about this 1938 version that offers what others don't. It is the child-friendly version that leaves you happy. It's well worth the watch, although the most impressive adaptation, in my opinion, goes to the 1951 Alastair Sim masterpiece, SCROOGE.

The Out of Towners (1970)

"I can verify that."

[9/10 · 6 November 2006]

I saw this for the first time as a kid in the 70s. It has always been one of my favorite movies in this genre. In re-watching it again last night, I once again marvel at the genius that was Jack Lemmon. Other recaps about the story's premise have already been given here, so I'll forgo that. This movie is hysterical...all the way down to the score. Jack Lemmon's tension and neurotic persona are brilliantly played out. Sandy Dennis was the perfect compliment to his "fast-paced" character. Her ability to stand by her man and be the obliging wife echoes both the time period of this movie, as well as her direct dichotomy to her husband's personality. They are simply perfect together. I know others have commented on her annoying voice, but to me, that made her part hilarious. There are so many funny scenes, and I find myself smiling throughout the entire movie. From the "circling and stacking", the buckling ankles, the Cuban ambassador fiasco, all the way to the end of the movie hijackers, this film is a true gem.

The Invisible Man (1933)

One of my favorite 30s classic horror flicks

[9/10 · 17 October 2006]

I have always loved this movie, although it wasn't shown on TV nearly as much as its "peers" (Frankenstein, Dracula, Wolfman). As many other comments have already stated, this movie has stood up very well to the test of time. Being someone who dislikes the "easy out" fakeness of CGI, The Invisible Man comes shining through with very impressive special effects for 1933. I think most horror aficionados of both present and past films would agree. Claude Rains, who is better known to me from The Wolfman, is absolutely chilling as the mad scientist who willingly experiments on himself with various concoctions, resulting in his invisible status. While the rest of the cast works well, I think there are no outstanding performances and that's okay. Best known (to me) for her annoying screeching in The Bride of Frankenstein, Una O'Connor doesn't disappoint in basically reprising her role of hysterical old lady. Her voice is the epitome of shrill, and it does get on one's nerves. And that's okay too because this movie has it all. Classic black and white horror, chilling storyline, excellent visual effects and LAUGHS. Claude Rains is pretty hysterical at times. Running down the street as a pair of pants singing is just too funny. Many other humorous moments. This movie does not disappoint.

Overboard (1987)

Something about this movie....

[21 September 2002]

There is undoubtedly something about this movie I love. Granted...and I can't stress this strongly enough...this is NOT my kind of flick. I normally would run full speed ahead away from a dopey comedy...and worse, a dopey *romantic* comedy. Bleck! BUT THIS MOVIE IS JUST PLAIN FUNNY! I don't even know what it is that strikes me about it. I think Russell and Hawn are perfect in these rolls and their comedy plays off of each other so effortlessly. Yes, it's a feel good silly comedy, but one that delivers several laughs. Like I said, this type of movie would be last on my list, but I've found myself really liking it. **1/2 out of 4.

Ghosthouse (1988)

Ve-he-he-he-he-ry Bad!!

[7 March 2002]

I know I should've been given a heads up on this, given the introduction when the movie started. I got the feeling that either it was a high school film project or a very low budget film.....or both. I am a true "scary movie" buff and love to watch most things in this genre. This film, however, just doesn't cut it. The premise is a couple who go in search of a strange message they heard on a ham radio. They wind up in a deserted house in the middle of nowhere, and find that there are 3 other young people staying there because they "just didn't think anybody would mind." Oh, a black man shows up in the movie for a purpose that still eludes me. I guess his character attempts to throw in some scary scenes. Wrong. So here these 5 young people are in this house when unusual things start to happen. One of which is the appearance of a strange little girl (who used to live in the house) and a clown doll, which her father, the mortician, took from "the dead" to give to her. I guess her impact within the story line could have been very intriguing and spooky, but it just didn't provide any thrills for me. In addition, that horrid music that played when the doll was present was more than obnoxious. Then these 5....ahem....idiots stay in this house, even amidst the strange occurrences, FOR NO REASON! At one time during the movie, Tina goes into their camper parked outside and the camper violently starts rocking back and forth...presumably possessed. She totally freaks and runs out. Shortly after this, she casually strolls la-di-da back into the camper to take a nap. Hello! The absolute worst part about this movie is the acting. I have seldom seen worse, and none of these people could act their way out of a paper bag. Maybe the mysterious little girl, but hey, she had no lines. The absolute best part about it was that it was so terrible, I was able to laugh much of the way through it. That was its only saving grace and kept me from turning it off altogether. If you're up for a hilarious, pitiful rendition of a spooky 70s or 80s slasher flick, then maybe you'd like it. I'd give it a 2 out of 10. Okay, 3. I did laugh.