Tony Rome Reviews

To Dust (2018)

Funny in a weird way

[10/10 · 8 October 2018]

2 unlikely paths cross in this serious dark comedy. The film never gets too serious, and does not attempt to get cheap laughs from slapstick gags, just the general premise of a friendship between a widowed Jewish Cantor obsessed with the body of his late wife , and a single, divorced, Community College Science teacher that the Cantor thinks has all the answers, makes this a funny enjoyable, non commercial film.

Runners (1983)

Well Crafted Film with surprising results

[10/10 · 7 October 2018]

James Fox plays a father that is obsessed with finding his missing daughter. He encounters a group of people who have children that have gone missing, and attempts to go to London to look for her. He encounters a variety of assorted crazies, grimy streets, and filthy places. The film holds the viewers attention for the entire result with a surprising ending.

The Gamblers (1970)

not particularly good

[5/10 · 7 October 2018]

I thought this film would be good because Stuart Margolin is in it, pre- Angel Martin on the Rockford Files. I was mistaken, it is pretty bad, the photography looks nice however the print that I viewed was scratched beyond repair. A very poorly made co-production. Don Gordon is a good character actor, but character actors can't always carry an entire picture.

Maria By Callas (2017)

Superb Documentary

[10/10 · 7 October 2018]

I don't think some of the viewers understand, this is Maria by Callas. This film contains no modern commentary, it is strictly focused on Maria Callas own memoir, performances, and TV interviews. Very well inserted footage of David Frost show, Callas performances, and news-clippings from the period of about 1947-1977. The film goes deep into understanding the demons that haunted Madame Callas, pressures from spouse, pressures from the Met, and other places of performance to continue to perform and please the masses.

A Matter of Survival (1969)

Interesting film

[10/10 · 31 August 2017]

Very interesting film. It centers on an accounting firm getting a computer, and how it will effect the employees and the management. The amazing thing to see is the computer itself, it nearly takes up an entire room. It goes to show how far we have gone with technology involving automation. The fear of employees losing their jobs and being replaced by machines is a major concern in this film. It is shot as a narrative film, and not in documentary style. The film chronicles the time before the computer is implanted, right up to the point when it is installed. This is a must see for anyone that studies technology of the past, and technologies effects on work environments.

Dead End (III) (2015)

exquisitely executed production

[10/10 · 14 September 2015]

Filmed exquisitely in black and white, with shades of the French New Wave, this films reputation is bound to soar in the future. I can see it playing in art house theaters all over the world, at it being discussed by millions of people. The East End NY photography is stunning. Beautiful dance sequences, and excellent acting. An engrossing and engaging mystery that explores the precious gift of life itself. Life is short and good and evil things happen, one must try to stay on course to avoid the Dead End. Is it fate, luck, or evil forces at work here? The director has major potential and we look forward to his next efforts.

Smoke Bumming (1994)

Great Low Budget Student film

[10/10 · 28 January 2014]

This is a great example of what barely no money for budget, just imagination and a simple video format can get you. This short subject complete with sound effects is just a marvelous joy to see. Taking a part of everyday life filling it with a poignant emotional performance by the lead actor makes it a heartwarming thrill to see. The shots and cuts and facial expressions are a gem. This is on the fly guerrilla style filming with just a simple plot outline. Sergio Leone, Dziga Vertov, and Francois Truffaut would be proud of the efforts put into this wonderful work. I wonder if the filmmakers went on to produce any other short films, or even feature length. This film definitely showed a great potential on the part of its film makers and actors.

The Play Is the Thing (2004– )

One of the best Talk Shows on TV

[10/10 · 27 January 2014]

The Play is the Thing is a superb talk show. Judy Sleed has had guests from all areas of the arts, and the Hamptons community. I particularly enjoyed the interviews with actor Russell Nype, and Fred Melamed, Michael Nathanson, and Broadway legend Tommy Demaio. The set design is calm and cool, and Lee Davis is a marvelous director. Filmed at The Wainscott studios in The Hamptons, and at times on special assignment interviewing people around town. My favorite episode has to bee the one where dancer, Sara Bedell played her castanets. Steven Spataro is also great, very animated. A great half hour that you wish could last forever. Bravo Miss Judy.

Dead Man's Burden (2012)

A worthy well made low budget western

[10/10 · 7 October 2012]

Director Jared Mosche makes a fine feature film debut with "Dead Mans Burden" This film made its east cost premier at the 20th Hamptons International Film Festival. Mosche brilliantly captures the lawlessness of the mid to late nineteenth century American west. The film centers around the death of a family member, and the mine that wants to purchase the family ranch. Richard Riehle (from the comedy "Office Space") does a fine job playing the best and only friend of the deceased. His performance captures the loneliness and disconnection of a person living in the middle of nowhere, coping with the death of his friend. Hopefully this film finds a distributor.

Herman's House (2012)

A thought provoking well made documentary

[10/10 · 7 October 2012]

Saw this film at the 20th Hamptons International film festival. Over 80,000 people in prison today are in solitary confinement. Herman has been in solitary confinement in a Louisiana prison for 40 years. Herman lives in a 6X9 cell. The film chronicles one individuals plight to build the house that Herman envisions himself living in if he was not in his prison cell. The audience gets an intimate look at the life of a man who has been incarcerated since he was in his mid twenties. The audience feels Jackies frustration as each attempt to bring Hermans dream alive gets faltered. Hopefully this film will find a distributor and get a wide release. The film is very well photographed, and edited. It is 90 minutes worth spending, a real eye opener.

Villain (1971)

Another underrated Gem

[10/10 · 5 October 2012]

Another excellent release from Warner Archive, has Richard Burton playing a violent, sadistic, homosexual, deranged killer, who loves his mum and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. His performance is dark, gritty, and scary. Spoiled and crazy, the end scene (which I will not give away) says it all. Ian Macshane is great as his business partner, and boy toy. Nigel Davenport is also great as the Inspector, as is Donald Sinden as the dirty, cheating MP. Joss Ackland is great, as he always is. This is one film that I guarantee you will not take your eyes off the screen. I put this film up at the top of British gangster films with, "Get Carter," "The Long Good Friday," and "Loophole," I highly recommend this gem. ***

A Covenant with Death (1967)

An overlooked gem of a film

[10/10 · 5 October 2012]

Thanks to Warner Archive for releasing this film on DVD this past September. It would appear that this film was an attempt to make a major film star out of TV actor George Maharis. His performance as the young, inexperienced judge was very well executed. Earl Holliman shines as the convicted suspect. This is film is noteworthy for an early performance by Gene Hackman as a police officer. His performances echos what would soon come later, in his role as Popye Doyle in "The French Connection," The romance portion of the film may be predictable, but overall the acting is well done, and the photography is great. The best selling novel "A Covenant with Death," by Stephen Becker is given fair treatment in this adaptation. I would defiantly recommend this film ***

Searching for Sugar Man (2012)

Amazing Documentary

[10/10 · 6 July 2012]

Saw this film in the Hamptons, Rodriguez was the surprise special guest. He still sounded like the recordings made over 40 years ago. This astonishing documentary garnered a standing ovation from the audience. The film is put together in a crafty manner, with great visuals and interviews. If Rodriguez originally recorded in the 1990's it would be very hard to "disappear," especially with the advent of the coming Internet, but since his story starts in the 60's and ends in the 70's for about half a decade, it would be easy just to disappear. The songs on the soundtrack are brilliant. This film is a contender for best documentary at the 2012 Oscars. Keep on singing Rodriguez. **********

They Come to America (2012)

An eye opening documentary

[10/10 · 1 April 2012]

This documentary focuses on the issue of illegal immigration facing the United States today. The film comprises interviews with people from both sides of the equation. Mr. Lynch travels to Arizona and speaks with ranchers about how illegal immigration is effecting their business and their home lives. The film looks also looks at this issue from the immigrants point of view, forced to live crammed in a house with many people, hungry children,language barriers, and all this just for trying to raise their families. Is this really what the American dream is? Mr. Lynch does a fine job showing both sides of the issue, from illegal immigrants taking away jobs from US citizens, and getting free emergency room health care, and not paying taxes. At the same time these points are being conveyed, Mr. Lynch captures the emotional aspect of good people just trying to do what is best for their families, children having a good life, going to school and succeeding. I would definitely recommend this well made documentary. *****

Hec Ramsey: The Detroit Connection (1973) Season 2, Episode 2

Hec takes on the Mafia

[10/10 · 18 March 2012]

Some mobsters from Detroit come to New Prospect and try to buy elected officials. This is what I call the Mafia goes West. Richard Jordan is very good as the cunning, corrupt, devious mobster. Hec pretends that he has never heard of "organized Crime," and cracks a few jokes. This is one of my favorite Hec Ramsey episodes. This show had so many great guest stars. Why Universal never released this on DVD is beyond me, they failed to answer my letter. It is possible that there is a rights issue surrounding the show, possibly tied to Jack Webb's Mark VII company. ***** A well deserved DVD release has been in the waiting too long.

Swerve (2011)

Great Suspense

[10/10 · 17 October 2011]

This film just had its North American premiere this evening at The Hamptons International Film Festival. The crowd loved this picture. It is big on action and suspense, and it has a strange twist, which I will not disclose. The story is set in a small village in Australia, in which an innocent by standard is inadvertently drawn into a web of sex, drugs, money, and murder. These are all elements that make a good action film. The acting is very well done, the photography and direction are excellent, and Emma Boothe is really sexy. The film received a standing ovation in East Hampton NY, it should hopefully get a wide release *****

Crazy Horse (2011)

Hit of the Hamptons Film Fest 2011

[10/10 · 17 October 2011]

This is a great documentary about an awesome club in Paris called "Crazy Horse," The film chronicles the dazzling dances, costumes, and the total preparation of the big show, from selection of numbers, clothes, promotion, and dancers. We get a glimpse inside the crazy horse at the behind the scene workers, technicians, managers, and yes we even get to see some of the patrons. This club has a reputation in Paris for having some of the hottest girls and hottest dances. The film received a standing ovation at its conclusion. Unfortunately the film director could not be present for a Q/A session. Worth seeing just for the line of mad hot girls naked throughout the film. ************

All Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert (2011)

Great Documentary

[10/10 · 17 October 2011]

Just saw the premiere of this film here at The Hamptons International Film Festival. This film is sad, but with a happy ending. Mr. Winfred Rembert endured a life of hardship, now he is getting many rewards. An appreciation for his wonderful artwork, paintings on leather, depicting stories from his past. This film should defiantly be released to a wider audience, Mr Rembert fought racism in the south in the 1960's and incredible odds to reach where he is today. Mr. Rembert was here at the festival, and gave a lovely question and answer session. I would defiantly recommend this film, and defiantly get a copy when it comes out on DVD.

Dying Room Only (1973 TV Movie)

Absolute Masterpiece

[10/10 · 19 March 2011]

Some of the best made for TV movies were made in the 1970's. This film has the great Ross Martin playing a role that is a far cry from that of Artemus Gordon. Here he plays a mysterious cook in a filthy dinner somewhere in the middle of the desert. Cloris Leachman is excellent as the terrorized woman. This film contains an early performance by Dabney Coleman as her husband. The supporting cast is great, Ned Beatty straight of his role in "Deliverance," and three years before his Oscar win in "Network," Dana Elcar is equally as good as the policeman. Dana Elcar starred in many TV shows, films and Made for TV movies, and seemed to have always been underrated. I give this film **** and highly recommend it.

Winter Kill (1974 TV Movie)

Excellent Made for TV Movie

[9/10 · 19 March 2011]

This is a great suspenseful thriller. I found out that this was an unsold pilot for a show that was to be called "Adams of Eagle Lake," I see on that page that they shot 2 episodes with Nick Nolte playing the sheiff, a character change from this TV movie. The film has an excellent supporting cast. Eugene Roche is very good as the towns activity coordinator. His role was reminiscent of Murray Hamiltons role in "Jaws," Young Nick Nolte is equally as good, you can see that he had possibilities of being a really good actor, which he succeeded at until his personal problems got in the way. Andy Griffith was excellent. This film stands as a testament to Andy, illustrating the fact that he was easily able to move away from the role of Sheriff Andy of Mayberry. ***1/2 stars.

Bora Bora (1968)

So So film, beautiful photography

[5/10 · 9 February 2011]

The cinematography is magnificent, as well as the shots of the Gaugain paintings. It is difficult to judge the acting, since I saw the dubbed English version which is available on HULU. The film was released by American International in 1970. It must have been a purchased import. In short the film centers around a man going in search of his wife, who walked out on him. He traces her to Bora Bora, and this is where his problems really begin, with his obsession of winning his wife back, trying all types of ploys to do so. I give this film ** stars for the cinematography. The quality of the print is halfway decent. However this film is not on video or DVD.

The Extra Man (2010)

Kevin Kline is excellent

[9/10 · 30 January 2011]

I have not seen Kevin Kline as funny as he is here in "The Extra Man," since his Oscar winning "A Fish Called Wanda," I thought he would be hysterical as Artemus Gordon in "The Wild Wild West," but I was terribly mistaken. Kline redeems his comic traits in "The Extra Man," the character is zany, and eccentric, fully of mystery, and entertaining stories. His young protégé is also entertaining, with humor, and drama. I thought John C. Riley's performance was quite hilarious, even if it is a small role. The 3 mens antics as a team are funny as well as touching. I would definitely recommend this film be seen. *****

The Statue (1971)

This film is worth a look

[9/10 · 30 January 2011]

The disclaimer at the beginning of the DVD apologizes for the poor quality of the transfer, apparently there are hardly any prints of this film still in existence. This film was just released on DVD and is quite legible, with the exception of numerous scratches. The reviews of this film at the time of release in 1971, were awful. Roger Ebert reveled in his review that he "walked out," before the movie was even over. This film is definitely a strange one, however it has good qualities today. John Cleese is in an early performance as David Niven's friend, there is also an appearance by Graham Chapman, and Tim Brooke Taylor. There is humor here, the search for the model who posed as Niven's private parts, for the creation of the statute does get slightly dragged out, nevertheless it is still funny. The stage production of "Skin," bears a resemblance to Hair, but it is more zany and wild. I recommend this films for fans of Niven, Cleese, Robert Vaughn, and rare lost films. *****

Treasure Island (1972)

A good version of Treasure Island

[8/10 · 30 January 2011]

I agree this film is slow paced, however it has some redeeming points. Lionel Stander gives a great performance as Billy Bones. Stander was gruff looking and perfectly cast. Jim Hawkins, played by Kim Burfield, does remind one of young Jackie Cooper, in the Wallace Berry version. Walter Slezak is good as the squire, but he does not get many scenes to play out his role. Orson Welles plays Long John Silver very well, his mumbling may at times be unintelligible, however this appears to have been done so that the audience gets a good picture, or a rough, tough, sea faring man who has seen a lot in his years as a pirate. The relation ship between Jim and LJS is almost like a father son relationship. I enjoyed this version, the cinematography, and costume design are superb. A++++

Doin' Time (1985)

Crazy funny movie

[9/10 · 12 December 2010]

This film was extremely underrated when it was first released back in the 1980's. This movie used to play on HBO many times. I can't believe no one reviewed this film on IMDb previously. Pat McCormick is hysterical as the warden of the jail, who is then replaced by Richard Mulligan. Richard Mulligan is hilarious as Mongo the warden. Jimmy Walker is also funny. The scene on the rock pile where Mike Mazurski tells John Vernon how much he likes him is a gem. The humor is silly low brow stuff, but in any case this film deserves a DVD release. I have it on VHS in an oversize Warner Bros clamshell box still. *** Worth a look.