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peter_smith_17
Reviews
War of the Worlds (2005)
Perfection
I have read a large number of reviews for this movie, and I must say that I was surprised with the comments that I read. Firstly, just before its release the Australian movie programs "At The Movies" and "The Movie Show" saw reviews of (out of 5) 5, 4.5, 5, 5, and 5. 4/5 gave a perfect score. I saw the movie with my family, and we all later agreed with each other. 10 out of 10. Every single review or comment I read in the paper or saw on TV in Australia gave it a near perfect score. But what I've later seen is that this movie was loved by critics but considered rubbish by the public. I cannot see why this is so.
Tom Cruise puts in another of his excellent performances, and I believe that he is one of the better actors of his age in Hollywood. His character is believable as the caring father and protector for his children, who is going through a rough time with the break up with his wife/girlfriend Mirando Otto (can't remember which). Cruise and Spielberg had teamed up once before for the film Minority Report, and this movie indicates that this won't be the last time they will be both be involved in the same movie. Cruise has put in what I believe to be one of his best performances, along with Collateral and Top Gun. But the real star of the show is Dakota Fanning. This was the first time that I had seen her in something before, but since seeing the movie I have now watched Taken, I Am Sam and Man On Fire, and now know why she is one of the most sought after child actors in Hollywood. She is incredible, and is an extremely talented young actress. I only hope that she won't fade away as she reaches adulthood as so many child stars do.
Spielberg's direction is out of this world. He places us right into this family, and see the events unfold front Cruise's point of view (as well as Dakota's in a few scenes). Spielberg cleverly doesn't show us what is happening away from the family in order to place more focus on the family, allowing us to become emotionally attached to them, much as we would our own family members. But it is the special effects that raise this movie to new heights. Not the actual special effects (which, however, are earth-shattering) but how Spielberg takes the camera away from the special effects, away from the action. If this was real, you would not sit back and go Wow, that explosion was incredible. You'd be running. And that is what Spielberg does, he has the camera running from the explosions, trying to get to safety.
This movie will always be remembered as one of the best movies that I have ever seen, and that will not change, despite what other people may say about it.
Batman Begins (2005)
Best Batman Movie
Batman Begins is a much darker and violent film compared to its predecessors, and is targeted at a more adult audience. This ensures the greatness of the movie. No longer are we getting Batman movies set more for children such as Batman Forever and Batman + Robin. I'm not saying that the kids can't watch this one, I believe that they would enjoy it much more than the previous couple of movies. Kids like to see movies that are more grown up, movies that contain a decent storyline and believable characters.
This movie delivers all that and more. Welsh actor Christian Bale is perfect as Batman, and does a brilliant job portraying the many sides of Batman, from the action hero to the extravagant playboy to the compassionate friend. Michael Caine is terrific as Alfred, and I can't possibly see someone else in his position. Gary Oldman's acting ensures the movie's success. Morgan Freeman provides a touch of light humour for the film, and the future Mrs. Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, excels in the role of Rachel Dawes. The power that Liam Neeson brings to the screen through his character is amazing. Cillian Murphy is too much of a pretty boy, and looks too weak as the bad guy.
There are some troubles with the storyline as the movie progresses, but that is only expected. There have been many complaints made that the start is too slow. I didn't find that at all, I absolutely loved the beginning of the film and it was great to see how Bruce Wayne really became Batman. This really is the best Batman movie yet. I just hope that there is more to come in this franchise.
Dead Man's Folly (1986)
Ustinov the definitive Poirot
Now, it may come as a surprise to most people when you see the rating that I have given this TV-movie (10 out of 10), especially when you read most of the other comments on this movie. But I will explain, and you'll see that there is some method to my madness.
Firstly, I'm a huge Agatha Christie fan, especially of the Hercule Poirot mysteries. I had read the book Dead Man's Folly and had enjoyed it immensely, thus making me search out this movie. When I discovered that it was Peter Ustinov who was starring as Poirot I was over the moon, as I consider him by far the best Poirot. In my opinion, Ustinov is the definitive Poirot.
I managed to find the movie and then watch it. It was excellent. Ustinov was brilliant as the detective gifted with "the little grey cells". It was not as good as Evil Under The Sun or Death On The Nile, however my mark reflects the closeness of the movie to the text. I couldn't believe how close the movie was. As I was sitting there watching the film I was uttering the lines in my mind from how they were seen in the book. It was a terrific film and deserves every bit of my 10 marks.
Clue (1985)
Best movie
I first saw this movie when I was six years old. Since then (twelve years later), I reckon that I have seen it a hundred times. I love it. I more than love it.
In my personal opinion, I rate this movie the second best movies that I have ever seen. The acting is terrific, and the delivery of the lines is perfect. Tim Curry is great as Wadsworth the Butler, and his explanation of the events they faced that evening is downright hilarious. Such scenes as the Singing Telegram Girl, the Poisoned Brandy, No Meaning Yes, the Kingdom of Heaven and the Cop's Tour Around The Mansion are classics.
This is a great movie, brilliantly produced, acted, directed, mixed with an engaging Whodunnit. Was it the Butler? Or Col. Mustard who recently came into a lot of money? Or Mrs White, who is accused of having already bumped off her husbands? Or the lecherous doctor, Prof. Plum? Could it have been Miss. Scarlett, who runs an escort service? Or maybe it was Mrs. Peacock, the wife of a senator? Or possibly Mr. Green, who would lose his job on security grounds if his secret is unmasked? Or maybe, just maybe, it was the Cook? So Whodunnit?
If you are interested in seeing it, I'd recommend the DVD version, as the VHS version (at least the ones I've seen) have been a bit out of sync in a few scenes.
I'll just leave you with this comment, "Is there anyone else in this house?"