dhaufrect Reviews

Ishtar (1987)

"Ishtar" is a great comedy.

[10/10 · 19 June 2009]

The film, "Ishtar" is a great comedy that was directed by Elaine May. Her casting is perfect. Warren Beatty plays Lyle Robers of "Rogers and Clarke". And Dustin Hoffman plays Chuck Clarke his partner in song. Together they travel from New York to the fabled land of Ishtar to perform a musical act in The Casablanca, a hotel nightclub. An act is actually way too kind. It is hard to imagine the cacophonous sounds that emanate from their mouths. The attempt on Beatty's part to reproduce the word, schmuck, with perfect intonation is hysterical. And Hofffman's instructions are just as belly splitting. There is a very memorable scene in the desert with a blind camel when Dustin Hoffman's character, Chuck Clarke, is requested to translate in Arabic some detailed instructions without any knowledge of the language. Jack Weston plays Marty Freed, their entertainment promoter. He too is entertaining in his portrayal. One should not miss this movie from 1987. It is truly a classic.

Up (2009)

"Up" is up, up and away.

[10/10 · 11 June 2009]

"Up" is well worth seeing in 3D. It utilizes the polarized glasses that were first released in 1952 with the black and white film, "Bwana Devil". However, this cartoon has enhanced the quality of presentation with effects that were unavailable in the 1950's. The storyline is one that is bent more toward the adult, and true empathy for the characters is unique to this film. The kids may enjoy the special effects and cartoon animals, however, the adults will appreciate the kind and gentle approach to the elderly that is a welcome change in the cartoon world. Edward Asner is the perfect voice for the protagonist. And Christopher Plummer is pleasure to listen to as Mr. Charles Muntz. I highly recommend this film for old and young alike.

Breach (2007)

"Breach" is a smash hit.

[10/10 · 18 February 2007]

Billy Ray has directed a smash hit with "Breach". The pre-release hype is fulfilled in this spy thriller that literally glues one to the seat in the theater. It was definitely worth the wait, and the marketing has been highly successful in that our entire theater was packed to the very last seat. Chris Cooper gives a commanding yet convincing performance as the counterspy who was responsible for the greatest breach in our intelligence security. He is well studied, and shows the hyper religiosity that this man used in his daily life. The greatest line in the film is delivered by his character when he says "I do matter". Ryan Phillipe plays Eric O'Niel, the young, agent to be who aptly fills his character with the innocence of a novice in the secretive business of his career. Even David Huband plays a gay photographer in an extremely believable way, and he does his best to occupy Hanssen while O'Niel attempts to retrieve a Palm Pilot that belongs to his "Boss". Bruce Davison plays O'Niel's dad, John, in a scene that is most tender when he offers advice to his son in his occupational endeavors. Kathleen Quinlan is also convincing as the hyper-religious wife, Bonnie Hanssen. And Laura Linney plays Kate Burroughs, the dominant authority who is the true "Boss" in the compelling spy drama. It is early in the year for nominations of best film, but it should be high on the list of films in one's "must see" category. Don't miss it.

Joyeux Noel (2005)

"Merry Christmas" is A Great Documentary Drama

[10/10 · 5 February 2007]

Christian Carion has directed a perfectly beautiful drama that documents an important pause from WWI. It is the cinema that depicts the Christmas break in the war that lasted for only the holiday itself. Diane Kruger plays Anna Sorensen, the German opera singer who woos the troops with her magnificent voice and beauty. Her counterpart, Nikolaus Sprink, is played by Benno Furmann, and he too has a very charming appearance as well a voice quality that rivals the best. Guilaume Canet plays Lieutenant Audebert and his acting is believable and satisfying. This is an important docudrama that should be on everyone's list of must see films. It is both educational as well as cinematic perfection. It can now be rented, so be sure to see it.

Because I Said So (2007)

I don't say so

[1/10 · 5 February 2007]

Michael Lehmann has directed a film that is one that I cannot recommend. Such a fine actress as Diane Keaton should be ashamed of performing is such a puerile film as "Because I Said So". She plays Daphne, an aging mother of three. All three of her daughters are adequate in their roles. However, Mandy Moore as Milly gives an amateurish performance. She has one particular line that is given in such a way that one is surprised that it missed the editor's desk. Gabriel Macht plays Johnny, one of the young suitors of Milly. The other is Tom Everett Scott as Jason, a wealthier yet less amiable one. Stephen Collins is Joe, Johnny's father who fall for Diane Keaton character. He gives a satisfying performance. The story is light, perhaps to light for any intelligent discussion. There may be worse films available, but they would be hard to find.

Monsieur Ibrahim (2003)

A Drama of Perfect Excellence

[10/10 · 5 February 2007]

Francois Dupeyron has directed a masterpiece in cinematic excellence. Don't miss this very compelling drama. "Monsieur Ibrahim" has a performance by Omar Sharif that extends his dramatic displays far better than any since "Dr. Zhivago". His costar is Pierre Boulanger who plays Moses also called Momo in the film. Moses is only 16 and is being raised by his depressed Jewish father who reprimands Momo constantly. Momo or Moses becomes enamored by the proprietor of the neighborhood grocery across the street. He is also enamored by the young street walkers in the same location on Blue Road. The first encounter is with Anne Suarez who plays Sylvie the young, blond prostitute who initiates him into her world. His most interesting relationship is with Monsieur Ibrahim who persistently repeats the importance of the Koran in his own life. The eventual adoption of Momo, and their adventurous trip to Turkey is as beautiful a story as one can imagine. Be sure to add this one to your must see list.

Notes on a Scandal (2006)

Scandalous Perfection

[10/10 · 5 February 2007]

Judi Dench .... Barbara Covett Cate Blanchett .... Sheba Hart Tom Georgeson .... Ted Mawson Michael Maloney .... Sandy Pabblem Joanna Scanlan .... Sue Hodge Shaun Parkes .... Bill Rumer Emma Kennedy .... Linda Syreeta Kumar .... Gita Andrew Simpson .... Steven Connolly "Notes On A Scandal" is a perfect drama that takes one's breath away. It is the penultimate example of cinematic superlatives. One cannot go wrong with a film starring Judy Dench. She plays Barbara Covett, an aging high school teacher who is bent toward same sex relationships. Of no less quality in her performance is Cate Blanchett as Sheba Hart. Sheba is a newly arrived teacher of art in the same school. Bill Nighy plays Richard Hart, Sheba's husband and he underplays so well that one is convinced of his role as a doting husband. The character of Steven Connolly is aptly done by Andrew Simpson and he is believable as the innocent young man captivated by his teacher's beauty. This is a film with a mature subject that is handled so delicately, that it captivates the audience with a sense of satisfaction. It is very well done, and should be on the must see list of the cinema buffs. Don't miss this very fine dramatic film.

Children of Men (2006)

Not for Children or Men

[2/10 · 5 February 2007]

Alfonso Cuaron has directed a futuristic movie with great actors and a weak story. "Children of Men" has great stars with talented actors and little substance. Clive Owen gives one of his less admired portrayals of a British gentleman who is caught in a web of intrigue that takes place 20 years from now. Julianne Moore plays his ex-wife. She too is a wasted talent in a film that does not benefit from the display of military might. Michael Caine emulates a typical 1960's aging hippie with flowing gray hair. He is very convincing as an hallucinogenic abuser with a deep affection for his demented spouse. There is a frenetic chase by the state, and it is a nightmare that is repeated ad nauseam. I cannot recommend this film, and I cannot understand it's popularity among the viewers. Take it off of your list of films to see unless there is nothing else to do.

A Good Year (2006)

"A Good Year" is a Good film

[6/10 · 14 November 2006]

"A Good year" is a good film. Ridley Scott has directed Russell Crowe in this love story that touches the heart. Crowe plays Max Skinner, a stock market wizard from London. His heart remains in his childhood geography of his uncle's vineyards. Albert Finney stars as his Uncle Henry and gives a very convincing performance. Crowe's childhood character is very nicely done by Freddie Highmore and his role adds to the frosting of this sugar coated film. The vineyard scenes are reminiscent of those in "The Godfather" scenes in Italy. The audience was quiet, and seemed impressed, however, I have a feeling that they were made of those folks who enjoy the mushy genre portrayed. Women were most impressed with the product. It was a good film but not a great one. The performance by Crowe was somewhat subdued or underplayed with success. The most attractive part of the film is the photography.

The Prestige (2006)

The Prestige is Superb

[10/10 · 11 November 2006]

"The Prestige" is a superb drama. It represents the struggle between two masterful magicians in London. Hugh Jackman gives a superior performance as the tall handsome Robert Angier. And Christian Bale plays Alfed Borden, the counterpoint in this exciting and slickly done cinema. Scarlett Johansson is the younger attractive blonde wife, Olivia Wenscombe, who assists in unraveling the competitive nature of the constant battle. One is particularly impressed with the cinematography and muted color that only enhances the enjoyment. The young daughter, Sarah Borden, gives an adequate child performance as the fulcrum of Christian Bale's plight. And last but not least is Michael Caine's portrayal of Cutter, the magic show manager who weaves this tale in a suspenseful fashion to the delight of the entire audience. It is a remarkable film that is likely to be a top contender this year.

Flags of Our Fathers (2006)

"Flags Of Our Fathers" Is Intense

[8/10 · 23 October 2006]

x men who raised the flag at The Battle of Iwo Jima, a turning point in WWII. (view trailer) User Comments: Important but not stellar (more)

"Flags Of Our Fathers" is an intense drama from a different standpoint than most war films. It is filmed in a sepia type of color that imbues the older era, and it is a very effective form of cinematography. Steven Spielberg and Clint Eastwood have consummated the transformation of the brilliant novel to a film epic. With a little editing it would have been a great contender, but the length of the film is somewhat trying on the audience. The story is that of the raising of the American Flag on Iwo Jima in World War II. Adam Beach gives a very outstanding performance as the lone Native American Indian who was responsible for part of the raising of the famous, yet second flag. His Indian background is surrounded by the prejudice of the time during his return to the states, and his emotional adjustment and eventual self destruction is a prominent feature of the cinema. Ryan Phillippe plays John "Doc" Bradley, the eventual narrator of the tragic taking of a desolate hill on the island in Japan. Jesse Bradford plays Rene Gagnon, and he too gives a very convincing and believable performance. All in all, this film with some more editing would be a great contender.

A Prairie Home Companion (2006)

"A Prairie Home Companion" better on Radio

[7/10 · 19 October 2006]

Garrison Keillor has written a screenplay for this film which is as good as any he has done for radio. The only thing lacking is the wonderful imagination he allows on his NPR shows. Meryl Streep plays Yolanda Johnson of the Johnson Sisters. Her sister is played handsomely by Lily Tomlin who gives a zinger of a performance as well. John Reilly plays lefty, the comic cowboy. And Woody Harrelson plays Dusty, his sidekick with a very witty role. Lindsay Lohan plays Lola , the young Johnson who is too bashful to perform on this, the last of the radio performances of "A Prairie Home Companion". Kevin Kline is outstanding as Guy Noir, a person we have only thought about during the weekly programs. Tommy Lee Jones gives a performance which is purposefully underplayed and effective as Axeman. It is a performance worth seeing, but far better in the audio mode.

The Departed (2006)

"The Departed" is an outstanding addition for Scorcese

[10/10 · 13 October 2006]

Martin Scorsese has succeeded in creating a masterful thriller in his recent release of "The Departed". Jack Nicholson does another piece of perfect portrayal of Frank Costello, and underworld villain whom one loves to hate. Matt Damon is a cop who becomes an undercover agent on the dark side named Colin Sulivan. He too gives a thrilling performance and he leaves no stone unturned. Leonardo DiCaprio plays Billy Costigan the "good guy" cop with a distorted childhood. Martin Sheen is Oliver Queenan, the lead cop in the Boston patrol who organizes the sting, and gets tied up in his own plot. Alec Baldwin is the chief police officer on the Boston team in charge of the hunt for Costello. There are few moments that lack suspense, and surprises are abundant. It may be a bit too violent for the young, however, the violence is well performed and tastefully fits the tone. "The Departed" is a must see movie for 2006, so be sure to put it on your list now.

Akeelah and the Bee (2006)

"Akeelah and the Bee" Wins

[4/10 · 6 October 2006]

"Akeelah and the Bee" is a winning film for it's genre. Keke Palmer plays Akeelah Anderson, a young black high school student who is a precocious speller. Her home life is initially less satisfying in the film until she energizes her spelling talents. Laurence Fishburne is Dr. Larabee, a Harvard professor who is responsible for Akeelah's tutelage, and he gives a very intense performance. He is almost too intense in his fatherly role, but manages to be quite convincing as a role model for his new student. Angela Bassett plays her mother and is very compelling in her conflict between providing for the family financially and providing the caring love that is deeply seeded in her maternal instinct. One cannot help but join in the excitement of the spelling challenges that occur on Akeelah's way to the National Spelling Bee. It is a light movie and was sponsored by Starbuck Productions.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

"The Chronicles of Narnia", A Perfect Fantasy

[8/10 · 6 October 2006]

"The Chronicles of Narnia:/The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" is a perfect fantasy. It satisfies the adult thirst for entertainment just as well as that of the older child. It involves the adventures of four young siblings who enter a fantastic world of elves and witches and animated animals that engulfs our imagination. Georgie Henley plays the youngest of the troupe, Lucy Pevensie, who first witnesses the magical land of Narnia. Her initial adventure eventually ensnares the others. Skandar Keynes plays Edmund Pevensie the younger of the brothers, and he actually cinches the attraction for the older two. William Moseley plays Peter Pevensie, the eventual leader of this group of adventurers. And Anna Popplewell plays Susan Pevensie, the older and most attractive sister who is more like an assistant to Peter in their fantastic story. The music is essential and awe inspiring. The computer graphic generated animals were enough to fool me. Liam Neeson is the voice of the lion, Aslan, and he was the perfect choice for this entertaining piece. Tilda Swinton plays the White Witch and her piercing eyes and gripping expressions make her the most outstanding source of evil seen in cinema in years. Don't miss this movie.

Water (I) (2005)

"Water" is a very moving picture.

[9/10 · 3 October 2006]

"Water" is a very moving and emotionally draining picture. It is set in 1938 and is factually based on Hindu custom. The bright star of this film is the little girl, a child bride who is widowed at around the age of 6 or 7. She is banished to a holy city to spend the rest of her days with other widows of the same fate. She develops a friendship with one of them and remains close throughout the film. John Abraham plays Narayan, and young man who is interested in the beautiful widow at this holy place. The conflict develops with the tradition of not allowing these cast aways to reenter society. They also have to refrain from eating sweets their entire life. When widowed as a child, this is a burden most would find to heavy to bear. The photography is wonderfully entwined with the story. It is a remarkable story and one which surprisingly affects millions of women living in India today.

The Missing (I) (2003)

"Missing" found o.k.

[5/10 · 29 September 2006]

I found "Missing" to be just O.K. Tommy Lee Jones gives an outstanding performance as Samuel Jones. His Indian name is Chaa-duu-ba-its-iidan. He is his usual complete character and surprisingly convincing in his American Indian demeanor. Cate Blanchett plays Maggie Gilgeson, his long lost daughter. She too gives a good performance. The granddaughter, Lilly Gilkeson, is played by Evan Rachel Wood, and she is believable as the terrified teen girl who is abducted for sale to some Mexican human traffickers. This picture is directed by Ron Howard, and his product is a bit long and tedious. But the scenery is spectacular. It is an adequate picture now on DVD.

Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

"Little Miss Sunshine" is the brightest film this year.

[10/10 · 16 September 2006]

"Little Miss Sunshine" is the brightest film so far this year. It is a comedy that had me laughing and crying simultaneously. Abigail Breslin plays Olive, the charming daughter of a most dysfunctional family. Dr. Phil would be extremely challenged by this group. Greg Kinnear does another masterful job in his portrayal of an inspirational speaker, Richard, with somewhat less talent at accomplishing this feat at home. He is perfect in this part. Paul Dano plays Dwayne, the silent brother who is rebellious and introspective nearly throughout the whole movie. His Tee shirt is a scream, and his silence is golden. Toni Collette plays Sheryl, Richard's wife, and she too gives an outstanding performance. Alan Arkin is perfect in his portrayal of the Grandpa with a spark for his granddaughter's talent, yet an extremely comical attitude that permeates his character in his inimical way. Lastly, Uncle Frank is played by Steve Carell, a suicidal, gay man who is brilliant and intense in his role. Don't miss this sun-shining film. It is masterfully done and will grab your heart and your funny bone at the same time.

Hollywoodland (2006)

"Hollywoodland" is a Super Human film

[10/10 · 11 September 2006]

"Hollywoodland" is a wonderful film with intrigue that will sustain your attention throughout. Adrien Brody gives one more of his masterful performances as Louis Simo, the private detective who seeks the truth regarding the death of George Reeves. Reeves was the original Superman character seen on our TV sets back in the 50's. He was idolized by the young and old of our country until his untimely death. That is the crux of the film. He is played by Ben Affleck, and this is a truly masterful piece of acting that allows us to appreciate Affleck's talent to the utmost. Brodie too gives it his all, and he truly is the hero of this film. Molly Parker plays his wife, Laurie. Zach Mills gives an honest performance as the son, Evan Simo. One cannot omit the role of Leonore Lemmon played so very well by Robin Tunney. This cinema will leave you breathless and bring back memories of a decade gone by.

The Illusionist (2006)

Terrific, and that's no Illusion.

[10/10 · 11 September 2006]

"The Illusionist" is a terrific film. It is no illusion to the audience to appreciate a work of art such as this. Edward Norton plays Eisenheim, the Houdini of his time. He is convincing in the role, and very adept in captivating his actor audience as well as those in the cinema. His eyes are piercing. His gesticulations are perfection. Paul Giamatti stars as the Chief Inspector Uhl, who unravels the mystery with an energetic stance. Jessica Biel plays, Sophie, the lovely heroine responsible for the tricky plot. I prefer to allow the film going public to absorb the story on their rather than spoil any of its finely tuned twists. One cannot become the least bit bored because the attention is constantly on the slight of hand of the magical hero. Don't miss this movie. It is a real winner. And that is no illusion.

The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada (2005)

"Three Burials is First Rate"

[10/10 · 24 August 2006]

"Three Burials of Melquiades Estada" is a first rate hit. It is Tommy Lee Jones's first attempt in film direction, and a complete success. Mr. Jones plays Pete Perkins, a south Texas ranch hand who befriends Melquiades Estrada played by Julio Cesar Cedillo. Melquiades is shot and killed by a border patrolman who is captured by Jones's character. Prior to his being shot, Melquiades insists on Pete's promising him to return his body to his home town, Jimenez, in Mexico if should die first in this country with too many billboards. Pete forces the border patrolman to take the body back and the story revolves around their journey. This film is a black human comedy, and one that should not be missed. Jones has accomplished a masterpiece in his first directorial debut, and he must be extremely proud. Hopefull, he will continue to produce this type of compelling, believable film. My hat is off to him and I give him 10 stars on this cinema.

Scoop (2006)

The scoop on "Scoop"

[9/10 · 7 August 2006]

"Scoop" is an outstanding new comedy which is written and directed by Woody Allen. He also stars in the film as a somewhat clumsy magician from New York who is playing the theaters in London. His co-star, Scarlett Johansson plays Sondra Pransky, a budding, beautiful, young student of news communications. Ian McShane plays Joe Strombel, a deceased newspaper writer who was out for a scoop when he met his unfortunate demise. Clive Owen is the handsome young man who is followed by Woody and Scarlett in order to unveil the clever plot that Mr. Allen has devised in his script. This film is very funny, and it is a member of Woody's new genre of cinema. I would put it in a class with "Matchpoint". Once again Woody has picked a winner that we can all enjoy. His loyal audiences will appreciate this one with tumultuous laughter.

The Lost City (2005)

"The Lost City" is a heartbreaking Drama.

[8/10 · 7 August 2006]

"The Lost City" is a compelling, heartbreaking drama. Andy Garcia has succeeded in writing and directing this historical view of the Cuban revolution. He stars in the film as Fico Fellove, a major nightclub owner. His family relationships are explored, and the evolution of each sibling is highlighted. Dustin Hoffman has a small role as the elusive, Meyer Lannsky. He gives another one of his very convincing performances. Bill Murray plays The Writer, however, he does not reveal his name in the film. He remains a comedian and seems somewhat out of place in the story. Jsu Garcia gives a convincing performance as "Che Guevarra. And Juan Fernandez is remarkably true to life in his portrayal of President Fulgencio Batista. The movie is well done and deserves a high score. However, I would recommend some editing in view of the length of the film.

The Lake House (2006)

The Lake House is a long one.

[6/10 · 6 July 2006]

"The Lake House" is a long one. It is not long in time, but rather gives the feel a lengthy film because of the extended pauses without much stage business that could keep the viewer busy in a visual sense. Sandra Bullock plays Kate Forster, an unassuming young and very beautiful woman who develops an emotional tie to Keanu Reeves who plays Alex Wyler. There is a two year difference between their relationships and that portion of the story becomes clearer as the story progresses as if one brings a magnifying glass closer to the screen. Christopher Plummer presents a very convincing portrayal of the domineering father of Alex and his brother, Henry. Plummer has a detached appearance which adds to his character in a way that only her is capable of radiating. There is a beautiful Lake House that is made almost entirely of glass, and it takes on a character of it's own. The wintry scenes are refreshing. The dog is charming, and the story remains puzzling, yet there is a love between two people that is worth viewing even by the most skeptical. It is a mature cinema, and one that is worth waiting for while the others go to the computer animated stuff that inundates our theaters. Dale Haufrect

Superman Returns (2006)

"Superman Returns" is a long awaited return.

[10/10 · 4 July 2006]

"Superman Returns" is a very long awaited recreation of the cherished character, Superman. No actor could have replaced our beloved Chrisopher Reeves, however, Brandon Routh has done so in a way that gives a truly remarkable image of the cartoon character in real life. His handsome image, and his ability to replicate the stage business of Mr. Reeves is truly uncanny. I believe that Lex Luthor plated by Kevin Spacey is another sparkling star in his villainous role. He is perfectly cast and gives a very convincing performance. Such perfection has become expected of his great talents. Frank Langella plays Perry White the ever overbearing chief of the Daily Planet newspaper. He too is well cast.Kate Bosworth is Lois Lane, and although convincing in her performance, she is different than the usual character that we have become accustomed to over the years. Eva Marie Saint gives a surprisingly believable performance as Martha Kent. Parker Posey plays Kitty Kowalski, and is consistent in her dumb blonde portrayal. I think that he most powerful element in this movie is the referral to Superman as the Savior and the son of Jor-El. Indeed, there is even footage from the first film episode of Jor-El played by Marlon Brando. There is a particular consistency to the formation of the crucifix when Superman is flying with his arms outstretched. Perhaps this is stretching it, however, I feel that it was a prominent part of the movie and it remained secular in that no particular great religion was emphasized, just that everyone seems to yearn for some kind of a Savior, and in this case Superman fills the bill. Great special effects are a delight. Don't miss it. Dale Haufrect