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Reviews
Suspect Zero (2004)
Not a Rip-off
The buzz that I heard concerning this movie (mostly on this site) was that it was a rip-off of other films of a similar genre like Se7en. I just returned from the movie, and while the stylistic elements are similar to other dark, psychological serial killer movies, I personally found the story to be original and captivating.
Ben Kingsley (Sir) gives the standard brilliant performance in his role, Eckhart is surprisingly good, as is Moss in a supporting role (her first in which I didn't think "trinity" every time I saw her). So, overall the film is acted quite well. The visuals in the movie are also very well done. The environments are well chosen and the various scenes of visions/dreams are also done well. The sound (music and effects) are also very nice, or at least they were in the theater I was in.
I only have a few complaints. First is that previews and advertising for this movie reveal the fact that it is serial killers being hunted by another serial killer. The film would have been even better had I not known that going into the theater. A second complaint is that for about 10 minutes in the middle the film seems to drag and you are not really sure what they are doing. For a shorter (100-110 min) movie, this is a big deal. However, they soon grab your attention right back.
While those dead set on comparing this to Se7en will have some similarities to add to their argument, this film does not take anything from other films.
I would recommend it to any fan of psychological thrillers. The film does not show much violence, but does have some images that may disturb those with a weak stomach. Nothing too bad though
If you have been thinking of seeing this film give it a chance and go see it, you will be pleasantly surprised. 8/10
This Old Cub (2004)
must see for any person, not just baseball (or cub) fans
This is an excellent film. I am fortunate enough to live in one of the cities that the film was released in and took advantage of my luck and went to see the movie. This film (best described as a documentary) is the story of Ron Santo, one of the best third basemen to ever play the game of baseball and the passionate radio commentator for the Chicago Cubs. The main subjects of the film are Ron's lifelong battle with Type 1 diabetes (which has cost him both of his legs), his desire to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, and his overall obsession with the cubs.
To see this movie, you don't have to be a cubs fan. The movie describes some cub history, focusing on Ron's career, but also speaks of many other teams (including the hated Mets). The anecdotes provide by a number of other ballplayers from Ron's time make the movie a treat for any real baseball fan. There are also a great deal of celebrities in the film that provide their memories of watching Ron play ball when they were young.
The most touching part of the film is the depiction of Ron's struggle with his disease. His everyday life with diabetes is shown to the audience. The squeamish look away whenever his amputated legs are shown, but the point of the movie is not to scare but to enlighten. Not many people (including myself) realize the severity with which diabetes can affect a person. Seeing Ron's everyday struggle is very inspiring for any person with or without diabetes. He is the type of person that proves that you can overcome any struggle to be the best at anything.
I haven't seen many of the other of this years documentaries (Fahrenheit 9/11 or Super-size me), but I feel that this film definitely deserves Oscar consideration. I would recommend this movie to anyone whether they like baseball or not. The story of Ron Santo's life is truly amazing and inspiring, and like every cub fan I am only truly happy when I hear Ron happily joking around with Pat Hughes on the radio during a Cubs win. Watch this movie, it will make you appreciate each and every day. (Rating: 10/10)
Underworld (2003)
worth the rental cost, i'd watch it again
decent flick. definitely entertaining and the plot was solid enough to hold my interest. best part of the movie is how it looks. when i saw the preview i thought it looked pretty stupid and corny but i was pleasently suprised. all the actors fit the roles pretty well and overall it is worth giving at least a once over. 7.5/10