Hunu Reviews

Durango Kids (1999)

Sweet flick

[10/10 · 5 January 2005]

Keeganv is the only one with his head on straight here. In addition to the great things keeganv mentioned, not only were the casting choices inspired and superb, but the crying scenes with Spencer Gray were emotionally powerful. I'm talking stuff that rivals the final scene in "The Green Mile". I would watch this over that "Hotel Rwanda"-fluff any day.

If it weren't for movies like this, I don't know what I would do with myself. I think I might have to cry myself to sleep if I didn't have "Durango Kids" to do it for me.

Just go see the movie. You'll be moved to tears...

Battle Royale (2000)

Read the book.... NOW!

[4 October 2004]

The movie, while excellent in its own rite, will be immensely more understandable and appreciated when accompanied by the novel version. I know there is an English version - I've read it. The book explores, more in depth, the social implications and motivations behind the creation of the program, but also the motivations and mental state of the students (as only a book can). I know I'm talking more about the book than the movie, but the movie will be that much better when you understand the who, what, and why. The character played by Beat Takeshi is a welcome addition to the movie, and definitely the most interesting character I've seen in a long time. If you go to read the book in some hopes of understanding Kitano's irks and quirks, don't, because it won't help.

If you have bought the movie, and you thought it was worth your money, the book will also be worth your money. If you haven't seen the movie yet, buy and read the book first, then buy and watch the movie.