Reviews

,,,and a classic family.

This is simply one of the best films ever. Its one of my most favorites and hopefully it will be released on DVD very soon.

Shirley MacClaine is the queen bee and Marcello Mastriontanni is the bees knees! Fantastic performances all around and a rich story that will leave you remembering the film for years to come. The cultural aspect here is cheerful and insightful and the whole idea of living in NY in the 60s was a blast to me when I first saw this. ( I was 11- so I had an imagination- sue me!)

Highly recommended! 10 stars.

....and a break from the garbage.

Americans have long been subject to films that don't require much thought. If you like British films with a slightly underground feel, you'll like this one. And I mean 'underground' as in - you don't see films like this in the states very often. If you're bored with the usual, this is a step out of the box. And you'll want to stay out of the box!

Robert Carlyle is as awesome as you would expect and if you like the Full Monty then this is something else as well. You cant compare the two films because they are of course, different. But the intelligent writing here is just as apparent. Excellent acting all around actually.

The comedy is edgy and you can get cozy and settle into the plot easily while waiting for the next twist. This film is unpredictable and certainly surprises you with a strong - but subtle- approach to "romantic" comedy, anger, and family reality. Emotions are high but not over-blown. Somewhat deep but not complicated. This isn't one of those weird "foreign" films that so many Americans dread. Trust me! The word 'realism' even comes to mind. This could be somebody's life, neighborhood and family.

It is NOT a chick flick! And there is no bubble-gum romantic sense here at all. Thank God! It is simply something you will appreciate even if you aren't familiar with the actors or British comedy.

Highly recommended!

Its more than a typical "family" film. Personally Im not into cozy melodramatic family films. And if you're not, you should like this. Its a cheer-up kind of movie and I don't mean its sappy and for kids only. Heres a run-down of the films best features:

* Gabriel Byrne!

* A different kind of feel here with much emphasis on family ties and a sense of turning things around for the better.

* A beautiful white horse that makes you want to find a magical horse of your own. The horse's acting is lovely as well!

* Great portrayals of Irish "Gypsy life" instead of cheap stereotyping that you usually find. You root and hope for them all the way.

* Ellen Barkin does an awesome job with her character and she can do a great Irish accent. Colm Meany is also in this film and hes cool as usual.

* Adorable children who know how to act better than a lot of adults.

* And.....did I mention Gabriel Byrne? 8P

...or one of them. This is - so far- the best portrayal of Saint Francis of Assisi I have ever seen. I was surprised. I actually cried. But Rourke knows how to move ya believe it or not. Fantastic acting and scenery. The feel is right and the story is based more on basic facts than the usual overly-dramatic, semi-fictional scripts that we see too often from Hollywood produced "bios". This film was shot in Italy and you get a real sense of our dear Saint here. Helena Bonham Carter's portrayal of Saint Clare of Assisi is wonderful. She truly brings Clare to life here - or gives you a sense of realism and passion and true friendship. Unlike the 60's "version" and others - this is the one to see if you want to understand the basics of Francis. I also suggest reading the "Little Flowers of Saint Francis of Assisi" and "The Life of Saint Francis of Assisi" - the latter book written by Saint Bonaventure.

Ah how can I forget! I loved this film when I was younger. I miss it and I plan on finding it again! If you can think outside of the action packed, sweaty, steamy, gritty roles that followed in Russell's career. Yeah they're great movies as well but this one is almost an underground classic because only certain people know about it and those of us who love it just love it for the hell of it. But don't get me wrong- it IS the best or one of the best films/roles of Russell's career. Its a good film for the fellas but lots of funny for the ladies as well. And here's a tip for the gals - Kurt looks foxy in those cheap, corny suits. 8 stars!

I am serious. Words cannot describe just how bad this movie is. You have to see it to believe it! But I don't suggest renting or buying this at all. I am NOT a John Wayne fan. He always gets on my nerves- But- I just so happened to catch this while watching television with my Grandfather some years ago. I will never forget how miserable I was and how much I wanted RUN out of the room. No joking. I almost had an anxiety attack! I just wanted to run away and you know its bad if I was willing to give up quality time with my Grandad. That's something I never give up on. But..well..

Terrible acting all around. The plane scenes are some of the most boring scenes in cinematic history. You sit there thinking: "When will this end?! How long have they been up in the frigging air?!" John Wayne was a terrible actor but this was the worst film he ever attempted. I just know it will either put you to sleep or it will make you want to shoot your own television. Please believe me. And in case you're wondering- No- my grandfather didn't like the film either. 1 star....if it deserves THAT!

Not only is this one of Lee Marvin's best roles/films but this film also features some excellent cinematography. The angles and the dark, strange touch gives you a feeling of the psyche (?) of the characters. I was surprised to find this film does not feature the usual cheesy,late 60s trends such as- hippie bashing, stereotypical go-go club scenes or stiff acting. You can almost step inside of Walker's mind. You root for him, even though he's a "gangster" of sorts. You feel his blows when he's being attacked. Angie Dickinson's acting is good here as well. Not over-done. Just right for the feel of the film. Its action packed but just right for those who appreciate a more subtle sense of action. In other words, it's not a typical "guy" film as you may expect. No spoilers here but-here is a wee tip- if you don't want to see the film at least watch it just to catch the "Cadillac scenes"! 8 stars. Recommended!

This is one of the best films I have ever seen. It never gets old. Very intelligent comedy and a meaningful plot. Its one of my most favorite films. Its a rare film. Rare as in- you don't find 'em like this very often. You hear the phrase "feel good movie" sometimes and that can sound a bit cheesy. But this truly is a feel good movie. Barry McEvoy's writing is awesome. Brilliant acting all around. Billy Connolly has a role in this as well and as always- he's the icing on the cake.

Doesn't matter how you feel about the 'situations' in Ireland. Doesn't matter who's side you're on- and a lot of people take sides- its about sticking by your friends no matter what. Highly recommended. 10 stars!