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Reviews
Home Movie (2001)
A simple, humorous, genuine, and brilliant documentary. Real "reality TV".
Just saw this film last night at Austin's South by Southwest Film Festival. What a breath of fresh air. This documentary, I think, brilliantly captures the humor and zest-for-life of five eclectic households whom are all living their own version of the American dream. All of the characters are fascinating for their quirkiness and eccentricity, but what really strikes you is just how genuine each person is. In a world of pre-packaged sound bites, "reality TV", and political correctness, it was refreshing to see people that were so in touch with themselves that they are able to create habitats that are such complete extensions of their personality. To me it also reminded me what I believe is best about America, that even in this day of look-a-like sub divisions, SUV's, and office cubicles, you can still be who ever you want to be in this country as long as you have the courage to follow your inner voice.
Joan of Arc (1999)
Disappointing, shallow characters, in two words..no "Braveheart"
After keeping an open mind and avoiding reading reviews before watching it, I was deeply disappointed in the "The Messenger". With the likes of Hoffman, Malkovich, and the up and coming Milla Jovovich, I was expecting an above average epic tale along the lines of a Braveheart. What I found was a hollow, rather disjointed story that left me wondering how could a story with this much potential fail so badly. The talented John Malkovich's character of the Dauphin was especially hollow. Dustin Hoffman character "the conscience" comes out of no where and seems out of place at best. Milla's Joan was by far the the best performance of the group, but not enough to carry the entire movie. Even the battle scenes had an unrealistic feel. For example Joan's numerous lone charges of well defended English positions while the English seem to almost pause and wait for her to get in position while not even firing one arrow. Yes, she does eventually get wounded, but the way it comes off was no where near the realism felt in classic epic battles in "Braveheart", "Private Ryan", of Kadokawa's "Heaven and Earth". I also felt the mood and mannerisms of the characters felt more modern than 15th century Europe. If you are looking for another Braveheart, save your disappointment.
Hoosiers (1986)
One of the best sports movies ever.
One of my top ten favorite movies of all time. It touched me deeply in my personal yearning for what sports should be about, but sadly today too often is not. Sports as a model for life. Of hope. Of innocence. Of ideals. Of overcoming adversity through hard work. Of what most of us deep inside wish life would be more about.