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Reviews
A Room with a View (1985)
Nearly perfect film
I say its nearly perfect, but I really cant fault it for anything. The performances are uniformly exquisite, the visuals/scenery are magnificent, the script follows the classic novel - but keeps the humor, irony, and pathos open to a modern audience. It is the most accessible and most enjoyable of the Merchant & Ivory translations of classic works - and really elevates the magic of the original EM Forster novel. While the leads keep the story going, the smaller roles constantly keep you amused. The aged sisters, the carefree brother, the nervous mother, the vicar, the bold authoress, etc all provoke a smile. And the last 3 minutes are simply delightful.
Parting Glances (1986)
Still Brilliant
It's hard to believe how cutting edge this film was in the '80s. It dealt with a disease that was still misunderstood and not given its final name, but it explored so much more. The fact that the central couple is gay is irrelevant in the way it shows the effect of strong friendships in the wake of true, committed relationships and the sacrifices both endure to remain strong (gay or straight). People now watch it for Steve Buscemi - who was excellent - but the brilliant Richard Ganoung, subtle John Bolger, Kathy Kinney, Adam Nathan, and highly natural Kristin Moneagle are memorable. While it captures the feel of the 80s, it's truisms are timeless.