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Reviews
Feedback (2002)
Top of the game indie film
FEEDBACK begins with the main character dying in the opening scene...or does he? From there, the relentless pace never lets up. There are no flashbacks and the story is entirely linear, taking place in just over 24 hours. This is one helluva ride.
FEEDBACK is a compelling piece of sci-fi noir, with a completely unique take on the concept of time manipulation. The storyline is carefully worked out, and the pacing is quick; each time a question arises, it is answered by the events that follow. The device used to alter time is totally plausible, and doesn't require as big a leap of faith as some other films in the genre. The acting is consistently solid, and the characters are likable despite their motivations. One aspect of the story that was especially interesting, and a bit more real, was the fact that these people focused on personal gain over some sort of higher cause. Which is most likely what would really happen, if this device actually did exist. A bit more character development would have been nice, but this is a minor issue and did not prevent me from being drawn into the story.
Production value? Phenomenal. This film appears to have been shot on location, in and around the Los Angeles area. Considering that it was made for less than the first BLAIR WITCH PROJECT, there's no comparison here--FEEDBACK looks so much better. The music is the film's other secret weapon. Finally, a film score that takes an aggressive approach from start to finish, without ever lapsing into the same old orchestral stuff that has all been done before. There are elements of drum n bass, industrial, techno, grindcore, and ambient music here. The bangin' mix of dissonant sonic textures is a refreshing change from the norm, and totally drives the picture, with the subway chase sequence being one of the high points.
FEEDBACK is easily one of the best truly independent films that I've seen, for several reasons. First off, the film itself, in the areas discussed above. Second, this is total DIY guerilla filmmaking, which can quickly be determined by following the `external reviews' link right here on imdb. This was not a studio backed, 7-figure `indie' designed to get street cred for a bunch of suits. The phrase `independent film' gets thrown around a lot, but this film is a true representation of the term. The filmmakers here have accomplished the damn near impossible task of not only making the film, but also getting multiple festival awards and actually following through to get distribution--all apparently on their own. Those who have any knowledge of filmmaking will recognize what an achievement that is.
This film really challenges the audience, and much like MEMENTO, requires that the viewer pay total attention as the story unfolds. Ironically, this aspect will most likely polarize opinions of the film: those who are able to follow the story will be rewarded by the unexpectedly complex plot twists; those who do not follow the story will end up completely confused and lose the plot entirely. Cool by me, as there's plenty of other entertainment that's geared to the LCD.
FEEDBACK gets my highest recommendation. If you're a sci-fi fan, by all means check out this movie, and you'll be challenged as well as entertained. The storyline is intriguing, the acting is solid, and the music and production are top of the game.
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
Depp deserves the Oscar
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN is one of my favorite films of 2003. Johnny Depp deserves an oscar for the starring role, and owns the film from the time he hits the screen. Great job all around, the film looks cool, and the special effects are flawless.
Admittedly, when I first heard about PIRATES, the idea of a motion picture based on a Disney theme park ride seemed just plain asinine. When I saw the trailer it seemed like it may work, but I wasn't totally convinced just yet. But when I saw the film in the theater, I was completely blown away. Now, having watched it again on DVD, it still holds up as one of the best of 2003.
Depp's portrayal of Jack Sparrow is incredible. He says that much of the persona was inspired by Keith Richards, either way it's an outstanding performance all through the film. The mannerisms, gait, look, everything totally works. Geoffrey Rush turns in a fine performance as Sparrow's nemesis Capt. Barbossa, and clearly loves this role. The rest of the cast is totally solid, and there are also references to the Disney ride, which totally work in the context of the film.
This movie is visually stunning, and the effects look flawless. I actually preferred the look of the undead pirates in this film to the somewhat similar treatment that the army of the dead had in RETURN OF THE KING.
If you have not seen PIRATES, by all means check it out. It's a great popcorn movie that entertains without being condescending. Cool to see Depp get the Oscar nom, and it would be even cooler to see him win. Now that he's won the SAG award, it will be interesting to see what the Academy has to say.
Memento (2000)
Phenomenal
When I saw Memento in the theater, it was my favorite film of that year. Having just viewed it on DVD, I can say that it still holds up, and will no doubt remain one of my favorite films of all time.
The way Memento unfolds is totally unique. This is definitely a film that is not afraid to challenge the viewer. Due to his condition, Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce) has no short-term memory and therefore has no clear idea of what has just recently happened to him. He has to painstakingly piece things together in order to track down the man who raped and killed his wife. While watching Memento, you have to literally become Leonard Shelby, and face the same confusion and struggle to make sense of the events that unfold around you.
Guy Pearce and Joe Pantoliano are tremendous, and the supporting cast is solid all around. If you have not yet seen the film, by all means avoid any spoiler-laden reviews and experience it first-hand. You will not be disappointed.
Equilibrium (2002)
Watch it
I missed this film during it's short theatrical run, just got it on dvd. I don't ever remember seeing the trailer for this film anywhere, which is pretty surprising given the strength of the action sequences alone. Yet, I'm bombarded by trailers for shite like `You Got Served'. Makes me wonder what the hell is wrong with Hollywood these days. But I digress.
The gun-kata scene in the beginning of the film has an intensity that rivals anything in the Matrix, and Christian Bale delivers a consistent performance throughout the picture. Whenever he does battle, there's an overwhelming sense of confidence-there's no doubt in his mind that he's gonna win. That's what he's trained to do. The climactic finale is one of the best payoffs ever. Ever.
Some of the matte paintings looked a bit dicey, but overall the cinematography is excellent. This is a cool looking film. The music is good, though there are places where a more aggressive approach would have worked better.
Overall, I would highly recommend Equilibrium to any sci-fi fan. It's a compelling film, with a solid cast, suspenseful story, and some truly great action. A solid 8 out of 10 rating.