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Reviews
My First Mister (2001)
Redeemed by Leelee Sobieski
I have never cared much for Albert Brooks, but he is okay in this film. The plot starts strong, with goth girl J(Leelee Sobieski) in school, at home, looking for a job. It peters out somewhat as it goes along with
SPOILER!!!
a May December romance, a fatal disease and a romance between the haberdasher's (previously unknown) son and J. In fact the latter was so saccharine it made me angry. Nevertheless, the film is worth watching because Leelee Sobieski is simply hypnotic. The subtle changes that she goes through from beginning to end are beautifully underplayed. The actress was obviously very comfortable with the part because, as they say, the viewer cannot see her acting. Usually chick flicks such as this sent me out the door quickly. But Sobieski's performance was so captivating that I could not take my eyes off the screen. I understand that Ms. Sobieski is still a teenager or perhaps in her early 20's. She has a real future ahead of her.
If.... (1968)
A great satire
I was in high school when this film was released. It hit my friends and myself like a bomb. For comment, I have little to add to the many which I have read here. Except to say, little mention has been given to the soundtrack, variations on something called the "Missa Luba" (I think that was the name), sung by a children's choir, quite haunting and a foreboding backdrop for the events portrayed.
Also, some of the images were extremely striking. The motorcycle scene was just lyrical; I bought a cycle the next year, in large part because of this single romantic image.
The final battle scenes are unforgettable. In the post-columbine era, that episode seems more threatening than it did 30 years ago. Nevertheless, I can easily close my eyes and visualize the machine gun toting grandmother, shouting "bahstahds!" in between bursts.
Taken together with the sequel "Oh Lucky Man", an argument can be made that this is one of the great satires of the 20th century cinema.
O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)
A wonderful movie
This is the best film that I have seen in a year. It is a loose (very loose) retelling of the Odyssey, set in depression-era Mississippi. The art direction and photography are excellent, creating a very convincing backdrop to the tale. The script moves along briskly, without being rushed; every scene serves a purpose. The music, primarily old-time folk and gospel songs performed by contemporary artists, is completely delightful. My wife purchased the soundtrack CD the next day. The acting is loopy and great, as is often the case in Coen films.
Here is the proof that "traditional" films do not have to look for the lowest common denominator to entertain.
Little Criminals (1996)
Brilliant and horrifying
This film considers people, most especially children, living at or beyond the margins of society. It is a worthy companion to Bunuel's "Los Olvidados". The central character, Des, is an 11 year old boy, the leader of a group of delinquents. From the outset, he is loathsome and (seemingly) without any redeeming value. The viewer's reaction to this character is disturbing; how can you hate an 11 year old. The story follows Des through one vicious episode after another. Slowly, ever so subtly, the little boy inside the monster is revealed, and circumstances which have created the monster examined.
The young man who plays Des is brilliant. It is impossible to look away from him, however horrific or painful his behavior. The supporting performances are also fine, especially the step father and social worker characters.
The screenplay is masterful; there is a rythm of explosive violence and anger mixed with small subtle hints of humanity that ultimately leaves the viewer moved in different, conflicting directions simultaneously. Ultimately, no pat answers are provided.
This is a disturbing movie. It should be seen.
Blazing Saddles (1974)
One of the funniest movies ever made!
25 years later, some of the sketches in this film do not hold up. (particularly the dope-smoking scenes). But, so much of it does. I have always thought that Madeline Kahn was a great comedic actress, and, broad as it is, this is probably her best work. And, any scene that has Slim Pickens in it will make you smile. Still, it's Cleavon Little, and the three jokes a minute script, that hold it together. Brooks has always been a master of crossing boundaries, and parody, and he was at the top of his game when he created this one.
Zabriskie Point (1970)
Well, the theme song was cool
Truly truly a period piece, like opening a time capsule, brooding male lead, funny clothes, new left speeches.. There are three memorable things about this film:
The scenes in Rod Taylor's corner office, with a color scheme that presaged Dick Tracy.
Angela Davis' afro and Roy Orbison's truly surreal performance of the theme song - Zabriskie Point is everywhere....