Viewed in
2011
Formats
DVD
Premise
In WWII occupied France, a young boy attends school at a church, and learns to befriend the quiet new kid.
Liked
The slice of life, the emotional last act.
Thoughts
A well-done, observant drama.
The first two-thirds grabbed my attention by showing what life was like in a makeshift school, with the threat of daily air raids and German patrols. It captured boyhood themes like females, schoolyard politics, and the need to prove you're grown up. It reminded me of the school scenes from The 400 Blows.
At the same time, I was drawn in by the two leads. Much like real-life, bonds were solidified through the passage of time. Julian's initial sense of being threatened and Jean's difficulties fitting in were universal regardless of language and setting. While their relationship developed slowly, it was never boring.
This set up the last act, in which war finally penetrated school walls. There were some really touching moments, such as when the room fell silent at the image of Lady Liberty in a Charlie Chaplin flick, when Julian's family witness racism in a posh restaurant, and of course the last classroom scene. I'm glad I read Ebert's reviews, as I completely missed a key moment of unintentional betrayal that made the rest of the film haunting.
When I think of this film, I think of the catchphrase "silence speaks volumes". The audience's knowledge of the Jean's secrets, compounded by Julian's unawareness, created wonderful tension throughout the story as the noose of time and war tightened around them. All these moments built character. Director Louise Malle, a New Wave film maker, played the film straight, using the occasional flair at the perfect moments.
Obviously, I haven't seen enough French films, but so far Au Revoir Les Enfants was one of the best that I've seen, thanks to strong stories, characters, and a wonderful, memorable third act.
What I would change
Nothing.
Showing posts with label 1987. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1987. Show all posts
Dirty Dancing
Viewed in
2007
Premise
A sheltered, idealistic young woman's world is turned upside down when she meets Patrick Swaywze and his pelvic thrusts.
Who should watch
Fans of Patrick Swayze. Those who want a coming-of-age film set to great music and dance.
Thoughts
There were many reasons this film was a must-see. Jennifer Grey was cute, Patrick Swayze was super hot. The music collection was one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time, including the famous 'Time of My Life' that sent shivers down my spine. With great music came great choreography. The dances were exciting, entertaining and sexy.
What was unexpected were the themes presented throughout the film. While they were not given full exploration, they had meaning. There were elements of repressed sexuality, race, tolerance, class, trust, family, abortion, feminism, and change. Dancing became a representation of more than just a social act.
Last but not least, one could not ignore one of the greatest movie quotes ever in 'Nobody puts Baby in the corner!'
What I would change
Nothing.
2007
Premise
A sheltered, idealistic young woman's world is turned upside down when she meets Patrick Swaywze and his pelvic thrusts.
Who should watch
Fans of Patrick Swayze. Those who want a coming-of-age film set to great music and dance.
Thoughts
There were many reasons this film was a must-see. Jennifer Grey was cute, Patrick Swayze was super hot. The music collection was one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time, including the famous 'Time of My Life' that sent shivers down my spine. With great music came great choreography. The dances were exciting, entertaining and sexy.
What was unexpected were the themes presented throughout the film. While they were not given full exploration, they had meaning. There were elements of repressed sexuality, race, tolerance, class, trust, family, abortion, feminism, and change. Dancing became a representation of more than just a social act.
Last but not least, one could not ignore one of the greatest movie quotes ever in 'Nobody puts Baby in the corner!'
What I would change
Nothing.
Good Morning Vietnam
Viewed in
2007
Premise
A military disc jockey comes to Vietnam during the war and shakes things up.
Who should watch
Robin Williams fans?
Thoughts
I never like movies that changed into a different movie halfway through the movie. The first half was a Robin Williams comedy vehicle that lets him go nuts almost to the point of annoying, but the second half was him attempting drama and action.
What I liked was how they portrayed the three Vietnamese characters. They were realistic and intelligent. Even Jimmy Wah was not a caricature by being a caricature (does that make sense?).
The American cast was pretty stocked, including the skinny versions of Forest Whitaker, JT Walsh, and Bruno Kirby.
What I would change
Not make it a Robin Williams vehicle.
2007
Premise
A military disc jockey comes to Vietnam during the war and shakes things up.
Who should watch
Robin Williams fans?
Thoughts
I never like movies that changed into a different movie halfway through the movie. The first half was a Robin Williams comedy vehicle that lets him go nuts almost to the point of annoying, but the second half was him attempting drama and action.
What I liked was how they portrayed the three Vietnamese characters. They were realistic and intelligent. Even Jimmy Wah was not a caricature by being a caricature (does that make sense?).
The American cast was pretty stocked, including the skinny versions of Forest Whitaker, JT Walsh, and Bruno Kirby.
What I would change
Not make it a Robin Williams vehicle.
Ishtar
Viewed in
2011
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty star as two desperate singers who go to Morocco, only to find themselves in the middle of a political uprising.
Hated
Pretty much everything.
Thoughts
Wow. Its famous horribleness still held up in epic fashion.
If you like a lot of intentionally bad lyrics, then you should enjoy this smorgasbord. Other than that, pretty much the only thing that got a genuine chuckle from me was the bizarre blind camel gag.
The flaws were aplenty, and sadly most were just cringe-inducing instead unintentionally funny. The story crawled, the plot was riddled with nonsensical double-agent plots, repetitively napalmed with the misidentity plot device, and finished off with an anti-climactic ending. Both leads were unlikable idiots and miscast; Hoffman should've been the dorky one and Beatty the ladies man.
Ishtar was truly a turd of a movie. The fact that it was over budget, including two giant stars, exotic desert locations, stunts, animals, helicopters, and explosions just took this flop into the pantheon.
2011
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty star as two desperate singers who go to Morocco, only to find themselves in the middle of a political uprising.
Hated
Pretty much everything.
Thoughts
Wow. Its famous horribleness still held up in epic fashion.
If you like a lot of intentionally bad lyrics, then you should enjoy this smorgasbord. Other than that, pretty much the only thing that got a genuine chuckle from me was the bizarre blind camel gag.
The flaws were aplenty, and sadly most were just cringe-inducing instead unintentionally funny. The story crawled, the plot was riddled with nonsensical double-agent plots, repetitively napalmed with the misidentity plot device, and finished off with an anti-climactic ending. Both leads were unlikable idiots and miscast; Hoffman should've been the dorky one and Beatty the ladies man.
Ishtar was truly a turd of a movie. The fact that it was over budget, including two giant stars, exotic desert locations, stunts, animals, helicopters, and explosions just took this flop into the pantheon.
Lethal Weapon
Viewed in
1998
Formats
VHS
Premise
Mel Gibson and Danny Glover star as mismatched police officers, in which Gibson is suicidal, and Glover is old.
Thoughts
Details are fuzzy, but it was okay. It was more serious and down to earth, compared to the farcical sequels.
What I would change
No idea.
1998
Formats
VHS
Premise
Mel Gibson and Danny Glover star as mismatched police officers, in which Gibson is suicidal, and Glover is old.
Thoughts
Details are fuzzy, but it was okay. It was more serious and down to earth, compared to the farcical sequels.
What I would change
No idea.
Living Daylights
Viewed in
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Timothy Dalton stars as 007, something about a cello player, Soviet defectors and Afghanistan.
Liked
The stunts at the beginning and end.
Disliked
Dalton's lack of Bond-ness. The boring middle.
Thoughts
Meh.
I liked the stunts at the beginning and the end, from the funny snowy slide via cello case, to the cool aerials of two guys hanging outside of a cargo plane via nets. It never hurts to have John Rhys-Davies in your cast, wished he had a bigger part. Also, I found the heavily 1980's rhythms in the score to be very catchy.
This was my first Timothy Dalton flick, and I was bored. He was completely stiff and lacked any tongue-in-cheek or badass presence. He felt like a standard action hero. Which would be fine for a standard action flick, not for a Bond flick.
Dalton's lacking also contributed to the boring middle section of the story. I had enough trouble trying to keep track who was double-crossing whom, and without anyone interesting, I stopped caring. Another problem was the lack of sexiness from any cast member.
Overall, this movie had some fun stunts to bookend a whole lot of boring in between.
What I would change
Added some action/sex in the middle section.
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Timothy Dalton stars as 007, something about a cello player, Soviet defectors and Afghanistan.
Liked
The stunts at the beginning and end.
Disliked
Dalton's lack of Bond-ness. The boring middle.
Thoughts
Meh.
I liked the stunts at the beginning and the end, from the funny snowy slide via cello case, to the cool aerials of two guys hanging outside of a cargo plane via nets. It never hurts to have John Rhys-Davies in your cast, wished he had a bigger part. Also, I found the heavily 1980's rhythms in the score to be very catchy.
This was my first Timothy Dalton flick, and I was bored. He was completely stiff and lacked any tongue-in-cheek or badass presence. He felt like a standard action hero. Which would be fine for a standard action flick, not for a Bond flick.
Dalton's lacking also contributed to the boring middle section of the story. I had enough trouble trying to keep track who was double-crossing whom, and without anyone interesting, I stopped caring. Another problem was the lack of sexiness from any cast member.
Overall, this movie had some fun stunts to bookend a whole lot of boring in between.
What I would change
Added some action/sex in the middle section.
Lost Boys, The
Viewed in
2007
Premise
A family of three move to a new town, only to discover it is being ruled by a teenage biker vampire gang.
Who should watch
Fans of the 1980's. Those who want something unintentionally funny.
Thoughts
With the plot, music, poofy hair, two Corey's and ridiculous clothes, this movie screamed 1980's. I guess back then, this was a cool movie. Teenage kids could totally relate to vampire gangs terrorizing a small town. Okay, maybe not...
What I liked most was the casting and director choice. Keifer Sutherland exuded the right kind of madness to portray the leader of the vampire gang. I definitely enjoyed his performance. And Joel Schulmacher was had the perfect, grandiose style for the movie. His visions of dark clothing, lighting and sets gave it flare. The vampire makeup was quite good, actually.
Lastly, kudos to Schulmacher for making such a stylish movie with a low budget. How do I know? Because in the scene where the vampires fly out of the cave, you could see the ocean waves moving in reverse.
What I would change
Filmed it with some steady-cams.
2007
Premise
A family of three move to a new town, only to discover it is being ruled by a teenage biker vampire gang.
Who should watch
Fans of the 1980's. Those who want something unintentionally funny.
Thoughts
With the plot, music, poofy hair, two Corey's and ridiculous clothes, this movie screamed 1980's. I guess back then, this was a cool movie. Teenage kids could totally relate to vampire gangs terrorizing a small town. Okay, maybe not...
What I liked most was the casting and director choice. Keifer Sutherland exuded the right kind of madness to portray the leader of the vampire gang. I definitely enjoyed his performance. And Joel Schulmacher was had the perfect, grandiose style for the movie. His visions of dark clothing, lighting and sets gave it flare. The vampire makeup was quite good, actually.
Lastly, kudos to Schulmacher for making such a stylish movie with a low budget. How do I know? Because in the scene where the vampires fly out of the cave, you could see the ocean waves moving in reverse.
What I would change
Filmed it with some steady-cams.
Masters of the Universe
Viewed in
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Dolph Lundgren stars as He-Man who travels to Earth to retrieve something to save his home planet from Skeletor.
Hated
Everything about it!
Thoughts
Maybe it was because I never watched the cartoon or read the comics, but wow did I hate this movie. I expected it to be like a cross between Conan the Barbarian and Willow, but it ended up being a Star Wars ripoff.
The only good thing I could think of was that Lundgren definitely had the right body to be He-Man. Two amusing cast members was a young Courtney Cox, and the bald dude who played angry no-nonsense authority figures before Michael Chiklis came along.
Last I checked my classmates' lunchboxes twenty years ago, He-Man was all about swords, magical creatures and fantasy. Here, it was laser guns, time/space portals, and a spooky midget talking science fiction gobbledygook. Hell, it was such a ripoff, that even Skeletor's henchmen were wearing Darth Vader Halloween costume helmets, and Bill Conti's score sounded like Diet John Williams. Then they had to throw in the ludicrous alien-genre story of them coming to Earth and running around with high schoolers.
They could not even get the "I have the power!" line right! I wished that, "By the power of Grayskull", this movie never happened.
What I would change
Not made this waste of time.
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
Dolph Lundgren stars as He-Man who travels to Earth to retrieve something to save his home planet from Skeletor.
Hated
Everything about it!
Thoughts
Maybe it was because I never watched the cartoon or read the comics, but wow did I hate this movie. I expected it to be like a cross between Conan the Barbarian and Willow, but it ended up being a Star Wars ripoff.
The only good thing I could think of was that Lundgren definitely had the right body to be He-Man. Two amusing cast members was a young Courtney Cox, and the bald dude who played angry no-nonsense authority figures before Michael Chiklis came along.
Last I checked my classmates' lunchboxes twenty years ago, He-Man was all about swords, magical creatures and fantasy. Here, it was laser guns, time/space portals, and a spooky midget talking science fiction gobbledygook. Hell, it was such a ripoff, that even Skeletor's henchmen were wearing Darth Vader Halloween costume helmets, and Bill Conti's score sounded like Diet John Williams. Then they had to throw in the ludicrous alien-genre story of them coming to Earth and running around with high schoolers.
They could not even get the "I have the power!" line right! I wished that, "By the power of Grayskull", this movie never happened.
What I would change
Not made this waste of time.
Moonstruck
Viewed in
2013
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Cher plays a bookkeeper from Brooklyn, who finds herself in a difficult situation when she falls for the brother (Nicolas Cage!) of the man she agreed to marry (the best friend of her late husband who died seven years previously). Confused much?
Loved
Olympia Dukakis. Insightful takes on romance and marriage. Gut-bustingly exciting climax.
Liked
Pretty much everything else.
Disliked
Cage's poor accent.
Thoughts
This still held up extremely well, and I'm not just talking about Cher's hair.
I loved the writing, creating memorable human characters while giving a nuanced, tender look into the different stages of love through multiple couples. Each relationship, romantic and familial, felt genuine. I would want to hang out and eavesdrop on them. With its brother love-triangle and heavy focus on family interaction, it reminded me of While You Were Sleeping. Although this one was much more insightful about marriage and love.
At times, the start of the subplots were inauspicious. Thankfully, writer John Patrick Shanley proved me wrong with interesting complications and smart themes. My favorite part was when all of the subplots masterfully crashed together with the Cher-Cage main storyline, setting the epicenter around the dinner table. Every new intruder exponentially added to the comedy and intensity to a hilarious climactic payoff.
Which leads me to the fantastic cast. I'm not a fan of Cher's music, so it was great just enjoying her award-winning acting for what it was, chuckling bittersweetly at her obsession with bad luck love. Meanwhile, this was one of Cage's best performances I've ever seen, despite sporting the worst Italian-American accent ever. Even though his character was a drama queen, he made it lovable while actually toning down his Cage-ness.
But the true scene stealer here was Olympia Dukakis, who rightfully deserved her best supporting performance. At first, I feared she was stuck with a lame scorned-woman role in the first half. But in the second hour, her and the writing flipped that trope upside its head, culminating in multiple great lines and haunting truths. Also, young John Mahoney!
Aside from Cage's bad accent, there was only a couple of nitpicks. The setup/premise was convoluted and hard to explain (classic example of a non-high-concept script that would have difficulty in the current tentpole-driven studio system). Also, some resolutions, especially the ending, were a bit neat and tidy that didn't perfectly fit the theme of believable characters.
Aside from a little bit of play-like quality, Moonstruck hardly felt dated. The clever writing, wonderful performances, timeless themes, and unforgettable characters made this rom-com into simply a great film.
2013
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Cher plays a bookkeeper from Brooklyn, who finds herself in a difficult situation when she falls for the brother (Nicolas Cage!) of the man she agreed to marry (the best friend of her late husband who died seven years previously). Confused much?
Loved
Olympia Dukakis. Insightful takes on romance and marriage. Gut-bustingly exciting climax.
Liked
Pretty much everything else.
Disliked
Cage's poor accent.
Thoughts
This still held up extremely well, and I'm not just talking about Cher's hair.
I loved the writing, creating memorable human characters while giving a nuanced, tender look into the different stages of love through multiple couples. Each relationship, romantic and familial, felt genuine. I would want to hang out and eavesdrop on them. With its brother love-triangle and heavy focus on family interaction, it reminded me of While You Were Sleeping. Although this one was much more insightful about marriage and love.
At times, the start of the subplots were inauspicious. Thankfully, writer John Patrick Shanley proved me wrong with interesting complications and smart themes. My favorite part was when all of the subplots masterfully crashed together with the Cher-Cage main storyline, setting the epicenter around the dinner table. Every new intruder exponentially added to the comedy and intensity to a hilarious climactic payoff.
Another great moment was a conflicted Cher quietly kicking a can down the street. Her outfit's condition, her performance, and the muted shot spoke poetic volumes without a line of dialog needed.
Which leads me to the fantastic cast. I'm not a fan of Cher's music, so it was great just enjoying her award-winning acting for what it was, chuckling bittersweetly at her obsession with bad luck love. Meanwhile, this was one of Cage's best performances I've ever seen, despite sporting the worst Italian-American accent ever. Even though his character was a drama queen, he made it lovable while actually toning down his Cage-ness.
But the true scene stealer here was Olympia Dukakis, who rightfully deserved her best supporting performance. At first, I feared she was stuck with a lame scorned-woman role in the first half. But in the second hour, her and the writing flipped that trope upside its head, culminating in multiple great lines and haunting truths. Also, young John Mahoney!
Aside from Cage's bad accent, there was only a couple of nitpicks. The setup/premise was convoluted and hard to explain (classic example of a non-high-concept script that would have difficulty in the current tentpole-driven studio system). Also, some resolutions, especially the ending, were a bit neat and tidy that didn't perfectly fit the theme of believable characters.
Aside from a little bit of play-like quality, Moonstruck hardly felt dated. The clever writing, wonderful performances, timeless themes, and unforgettable characters made this rom-com into simply a great film.
Police Story
Viewed in
1999
Formats
VHS (dubbed)
Premise
Jackie Chan stars as a Hong Kong cop taking on drug lords.
Loved
The awesome stunts.
Thoughts
What I recall the most was the stunts, such as Chan running down 45-degree steep hills, catching a moving bus, and sliding down three stories worth of Christmas lights and pyrotechnics. For Jackie Chan fans, this was a must-see.
What I would change
Nothing.
1999
Formats
VHS (dubbed)
Premise
Jackie Chan stars as a Hong Kong cop taking on drug lords.
Loved
The awesome stunts.
Thoughts
What I recall the most was the stunts, such as Chan running down 45-degree steep hills, catching a moving bus, and sliding down three stories worth of Christmas lights and pyrotechnics. For Jackie Chan fans, this was a must-see.
What I would change
Nothing.
Predator
Viewed in
2008
Premise
Arnold Schwarzenegger and an elite group of American soldiers in the jungle are attacked by a camouflaged alien hunter.
Who should watch
Arnold fans.
Thoughts
This had some good old fashioned American blood and guts, biceps and big explosions.
I somewhat enjoyed the R-rated gore, cussing and explosions. An amusing fact was that this movie featured two future U.S. governors, with Arnold and Jesse "The Body" Ventura. Seeing Carl Weathers not as Apollo Creed was interesting. Last but not least, the great Stan Winston created yet another beautiful creature.
Despite all this, I was a bit bored. There was not much story, nor suspense. Had I watched it when it first came out, I might have thought the decent special effects and infrared vision was cool.
Overall, it was okay.
What I would change
I would have deleted the middle action scene when Arnold and company attacks a terrorist compound. That was clearly just for the sake of blowing things up. I wanted to see more of the Predator.
Random
Now I finally know where 'Get to the chop-pah!' catchphrase came from.
2008
Premise
Arnold Schwarzenegger and an elite group of American soldiers in the jungle are attacked by a camouflaged alien hunter.
Who should watch
Arnold fans.
Thoughts
This had some good old fashioned American blood and guts, biceps and big explosions.
I somewhat enjoyed the R-rated gore, cussing and explosions. An amusing fact was that this movie featured two future U.S. governors, with Arnold and Jesse "The Body" Ventura. Seeing Carl Weathers not as Apollo Creed was interesting. Last but not least, the great Stan Winston created yet another beautiful creature.
Despite all this, I was a bit bored. There was not much story, nor suspense. Had I watched it when it first came out, I might have thought the decent special effects and infrared vision was cool.
Overall, it was okay.
What I would change
I would have deleted the middle action scene when Arnold and company attacks a terrorist compound. That was clearly just for the sake of blowing things up. I wanted to see more of the Predator.
Random
Now I finally know where 'Get to the chop-pah!' catchphrase came from.
The Princess Bride
Viewed in
1994, 1996, 2000
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Writer William Goldman's classic fairy tale comes to life.
Loved
Everything!
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I often look back at this masterpiece fondly. What made it timeless was the great writing, as it was full of unexpected creativity, fantastic character names, memorable moments, and ingenious humor. The cast kicked butt, from the leads to the cameos. Plus it had the late great Andre the Giant.
One of the best family adventure flicks ever made, even for adults.
What I would change
Nothing.
1994, 1996, 2000
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Writer William Goldman's classic fairy tale comes to life.
Loved
Everything!
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I often look back at this masterpiece fondly. What made it timeless was the great writing, as it was full of unexpected creativity, fantastic character names, memorable moments, and ingenious humor. The cast kicked butt, from the leads to the cameos. Plus it had the late great Andre the Giant.
One of the best family adventure flicks ever made, even for adults.
What I would change
Nothing.
Raising Arizona
Viewed in
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
A married couple decide to steal a baby from a rich family's quintuplets to make their own.
Liked
Nicholas Cage and Holly Hunter, the off-beat comedy.
Disliked
The diverting subplots.
Thoughts
A movie that started off hilariously great, then could not sustain itself for the rest of the time.
Overall, it contained the typical Coen quirky dialogue and off-beat characters that we have come to love. Cage and Hunter were a funny couple, and for the current generation, they kind of reminded me of the TV show, My Name is Earl. There were some funny moments with John Goodman, such as the jail-break scene clearly an ode to child birth. One of my favorite scenes was the fight in the trailer, which it accurately portrayed the ineffectiveness of a fist-fight in tight spaces.
From a film buff perspective, this was a movie of humble beginnings for many. Not only for the Coens, but for future director Barry Sonnenfeld as cinematographer, composer Carter Burwell, and Coen regular Frances McDormand. Although I guess the same could be said about Blood Simple.
I think the reason why there were so many boring parts was because of the subplots involving a hellish bounty hunter and Cage's former-convict buddies. In the first twenty minutes, I was in love with Cage/Hunter characters, but all of a sudden, their storyline with the baby was distracted by these characters and goofy chases.
Also, it sometimes felt too slapsticky for the Coens. There was an early scene in which Cage's character snuck into the quintuplet's room, and it was just five minutes of him chasing around adorable babies. It just felt like it came from a different movie. This was one of many scenes that were individually creative but the sum was less than their parts combined.
It had a great premise with two charming leads. Too bad the rest of the movie felt like a pair of young promising filmmakers working out their mistakes.
What I would change
Replaced the bounty hunter and escaped convicts subplots with family-themed complications.
2010
Formats
HD TV
Premise
A married couple decide to steal a baby from a rich family's quintuplets to make their own.
Liked
Nicholas Cage and Holly Hunter, the off-beat comedy.
Disliked
The diverting subplots.
Thoughts
A movie that started off hilariously great, then could not sustain itself for the rest of the time.
Overall, it contained the typical Coen quirky dialogue and off-beat characters that we have come to love. Cage and Hunter were a funny couple, and for the current generation, they kind of reminded me of the TV show, My Name is Earl. There were some funny moments with John Goodman, such as the jail-break scene clearly an ode to child birth. One of my favorite scenes was the fight in the trailer, which it accurately portrayed the ineffectiveness of a fist-fight in tight spaces.
From a film buff perspective, this was a movie of humble beginnings for many. Not only for the Coens, but for future director Barry Sonnenfeld as cinematographer, composer Carter Burwell, and Coen regular Frances McDormand. Although I guess the same could be said about Blood Simple.
I think the reason why there were so many boring parts was because of the subplots involving a hellish bounty hunter and Cage's former-convict buddies. In the first twenty minutes, I was in love with Cage/Hunter characters, but all of a sudden, their storyline with the baby was distracted by these characters and goofy chases.
Also, it sometimes felt too slapsticky for the Coens. There was an early scene in which Cage's character snuck into the quintuplet's room, and it was just five minutes of him chasing around adorable babies. It just felt like it came from a different movie. This was one of many scenes that were individually creative but the sum was less than their parts combined.
It had a great premise with two charming leads. Too bad the rest of the movie felt like a pair of young promising filmmakers working out their mistakes.
What I would change
Replaced the bounty hunter and escaped convicts subplots with family-themed complications.
Robocop
Viewed in
2009
Premise
In a futuristic Detroit, a cop left for dead becomes a cyborg law enforcer.
Who should watch
Anyone who loves 1980's action movies.
Thoughts
In spite of it being an '80's movie, it was interesting.
What impressed me the most was the little social commentaries. I was shocked that the story foretold a world of over sized vehicles (touting 8.2 MPG's!) and contractors running the military and law enforcement.
Some of the science fiction ideas still held up, such as computer programs, GPS devices and computer technology.
What bugged me the most was that it suffered the symptoms of a typical 1980's action flick. Each dialogue was labored, as the movie makers crammed every R-rated cuss word into every line. There were as many F and S bombs as exploding blood packets.
Some parts were amusing. I thought it captured that '80's power business suit atmosphere authentically. Since this was my first time watching, I shouted 'That's the dad from "That 70's Show"!', instead of the inverse. Lastly, I was mad that I did not recognize the ethereal synthesizers of Basil Poledouris ('Hunt for Red October').
The stop motion robot soldiers were no better than the skeleton warriors of 'Jason and the Argonauts'. On the other hand, the animatronics were very impressive for its time.
While it was an smart science fiction buried under by action, I could understand the appeal this movie had on friends of my generation.
What I would change
Less cussing and blood packets. But then it would not be a quintessential 1980's movie, now, would it?
2009
Premise
In a futuristic Detroit, a cop left for dead becomes a cyborg law enforcer.
Who should watch
Anyone who loves 1980's action movies.
Thoughts
In spite of it being an '80's movie, it was interesting.
What impressed me the most was the little social commentaries. I was shocked that the story foretold a world of over sized vehicles (touting 8.2 MPG's!) and contractors running the military and law enforcement.
Some of the science fiction ideas still held up, such as computer programs, GPS devices and computer technology.
What bugged me the most was that it suffered the symptoms of a typical 1980's action flick. Each dialogue was labored, as the movie makers crammed every R-rated cuss word into every line. There were as many F and S bombs as exploding blood packets.
Some parts were amusing. I thought it captured that '80's power business suit atmosphere authentically. Since this was my first time watching, I shouted 'That's the dad from "That 70's Show"!', instead of the inverse. Lastly, I was mad that I did not recognize the ethereal synthesizers of Basil Poledouris ('Hunt for Red October').
The stop motion robot soldiers were no better than the skeleton warriors of 'Jason and the Argonauts'. On the other hand, the animatronics were very impressive for its time.
While it was an smart science fiction buried under by action, I could understand the appeal this movie had on friends of my generation.
What I would change
Less cussing and blood packets. But then it would not be a quintessential 1980's movie, now, would it?
The Running Man
Viewed in
2013
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as a wrongly convicted man forced to play in a deathmatch game, which happens to be on TV.
Loved
Jesse Ventura.
Liked
Arnold, post-apocalyptic themes.
Disliked
Lazy writing.
Thoughts
When I think "1980's Arnold flick" I expect lots of mindless violence. Here, I was pleasantly surprised.
While I couldn't help but think of The Hunger Games and other better post-apocalyptic movies, it was insightful about what America's future: with intriguing themes of television, violence, censorship, and fears of totalitarianism. In the end it didn't really dive into these themes, but I appreciated the world-building and effort.
It wasn't as graphically violent as I expected. Depending on who you are (or what mood you're in) this could be a plus or a minus.
Arnold delivered the goods (as usual) as the lead, his physique convinced me that he'd overcome the odds, and pairing him against gargantuan opponents still reenforced his underdog-ness. There were some odd casting choices, including Jim Brown, a Fleetwood, a Zappa, and Mr. Big from Live and Let Die. But the scene-stealer (and best part of the movie) was Jesse Ventura. Granted he was kind of playing his larger-than-life self, he just grabbed the scene by the balls and took the energy to a whole new level every time he was onscreen.
There were plenty of silly 1980's moments to give it an unintentionally funny dimension. The enemy outfits were ridiculous, including killer hockey sticks, armor covered in Lite-Brite, and what looked like a bad Transformers cosplay. I also laughed at the incredulous movie logic. Not that I've operated either machines, but I'd imagine riding a motorcycle with one hand while the other hand wielded a working chainsaw would require immense balance.
Other amusing things were the cheesy one-liners, including a SMH-inducing Terminator reference, and reusing the same tobogan-pipe shots not just once, but twice!
Aside from the lazy writing, I was also grew impatient that it took too long to get to the actual Running Man Game portion.
Overall, I enjoyed The Running Man. Of Arnold's vast works, I don't think I'll be re-watching this anytime soon, though it was worth watching for interesting premise, Arnold's charm, and Jesse Ventura's pure awesomeness.
2013
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as a wrongly convicted man forced to play in a deathmatch game, which happens to be on TV.
Loved
Jesse Ventura.
Liked
Arnold, post-apocalyptic themes.
Disliked
Lazy writing.
Thoughts
When I think "1980's Arnold flick" I expect lots of mindless violence. Here, I was pleasantly surprised.
While I couldn't help but think of The Hunger Games and other better post-apocalyptic movies, it was insightful about what America's future: with intriguing themes of television, violence, censorship, and fears of totalitarianism. In the end it didn't really dive into these themes, but I appreciated the world-building and effort.
It wasn't as graphically violent as I expected. Depending on who you are (or what mood you're in) this could be a plus or a minus.
Arnold delivered the goods (as usual) as the lead, his physique convinced me that he'd overcome the odds, and pairing him against gargantuan opponents still reenforced his underdog-ness. There were some odd casting choices, including Jim Brown, a Fleetwood, a Zappa, and Mr. Big from Live and Let Die. But the scene-stealer (and best part of the movie) was Jesse Ventura. Granted he was kind of playing his larger-than-life self, he just grabbed the scene by the balls and took the energy to a whole new level every time he was onscreen.
There were plenty of silly 1980's moments to give it an unintentionally funny dimension. The enemy outfits were ridiculous, including killer hockey sticks, armor covered in Lite-Brite, and what looked like a bad Transformers cosplay. I also laughed at the incredulous movie logic. Not that I've operated either machines, but I'd imagine riding a motorcycle with one hand while the other hand wielded a working chainsaw would require immense balance.
Other amusing things were the cheesy one-liners, including a SMH-inducing Terminator reference, and reusing the same tobogan-pipe shots not just once, but twice!
Aside from the lazy writing, I was also grew impatient that it took too long to get to the actual Running Man Game portion.
Overall, I enjoyed The Running Man. Of Arnold's vast works, I don't think I'll be re-watching this anytime soon, though it was worth watching for interesting premise, Arnold's charm, and Jesse Ventura's pure awesomeness.
Spaceballs
Viewed in
1997, 2002
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Mel Brooks parodies Star Wars movies.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I recall enjoying a lot of the Star Wars gags. Brooks pretty much kept the comedy momentum going throughout the film with his assortment of cheap laughs. The cast was pretty good, with Bill Pullman as the hero, John Candy as his sidekick, and Rick Moranis as the Darth Vader spoof.
What I would change
No idea.
1997, 2002
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Mel Brooks parodies Star Wars movies.
Thoughts
It's been a while, but I recall enjoying a lot of the Star Wars gags. Brooks pretty much kept the comedy momentum going throughout the film with his assortment of cheap laughs. The cast was pretty good, with Bill Pullman as the hero, John Candy as his sidekick, and Rick Moranis as the Darth Vader spoof.
What I would change
No idea.
Wall Street
Viewed in
2010
Formats
DVD
Premise
Charlie Sheen stars as a green Wall Street grunt was wants to become the next Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas) by being mentored by Gekko himself, ethics be damned.
Loved
Michael Douglas' performance, the dialog.
Liked
The cast and their performances.
Disliked
The logic in the third act.
Thoughts
A well-written and acted film.
What I liked best was the poetic speeches and memorable lines about money, power, and the drive to attain them. At times, the writers made it feel more like a stage play than a motion picture. I enjoyed the cool moments as characters pontificated these wonderful, intelligent phrases that touched on numerous themes about surviving versus living, soul versus money, and "greed is good".
Quality writing encouraged quality acting. It also attracted a quality cast full of recognizable 1980's actors like Sean Young and Darryl Hannah. Charlie Sheen was believable as the hungry, clever youngster. Casting his real-life father was a bit distracting, but Charlie and Martin pull off the father-son relationship well enough to overcome it. Naturally, this film really belonged to Douglas' Gordon Gekko. Even with all the hype, he owned the character with allure, ruthlessness, and pure presence.
Overall, director Oliver Stone did an excellent job of portraying this dizzying, merciless jungle. The jargon-filled dialogue felt genuine and never dumbed down. His vision and execution helped capture what it felt like to live in that time and place, as well as the brains, clothes, posture and attitude required to thrive in such a world.
The biggest flaw was some of the character's actions that moved the story to the third act. I found it really hard to believe that Gekko could not anticipate his protege's reaction after acquiring the airline. Also, while I liked all the jargon and realistic stock talk, I did get lost once in a while at what was happening.
Thanks to some knowledgeable writing and Stone's directing, this film still held up very well with its timeless dialogue and memorable performances.
What I would change
Nothing.
2010
Formats
DVD
Premise
Charlie Sheen stars as a green Wall Street grunt was wants to become the next Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas) by being mentored by Gekko himself, ethics be damned.
Loved
Michael Douglas' performance, the dialog.
Liked
The cast and their performances.
Disliked
The logic in the third act.
Thoughts
A well-written and acted film.
What I liked best was the poetic speeches and memorable lines about money, power, and the drive to attain them. At times, the writers made it feel more like a stage play than a motion picture. I enjoyed the cool moments as characters pontificated these wonderful, intelligent phrases that touched on numerous themes about surviving versus living, soul versus money, and "greed is good".
Quality writing encouraged quality acting. It also attracted a quality cast full of recognizable 1980's actors like Sean Young and Darryl Hannah. Charlie Sheen was believable as the hungry, clever youngster. Casting his real-life father was a bit distracting, but Charlie and Martin pull off the father-son relationship well enough to overcome it. Naturally, this film really belonged to Douglas' Gordon Gekko. Even with all the hype, he owned the character with allure, ruthlessness, and pure presence.
Overall, director Oliver Stone did an excellent job of portraying this dizzying, merciless jungle. The jargon-filled dialogue felt genuine and never dumbed down. His vision and execution helped capture what it felt like to live in that time and place, as well as the brains, clothes, posture and attitude required to thrive in such a world.
The biggest flaw was some of the character's actions that moved the story to the third act. I found it really hard to believe that Gekko could not anticipate his protege's reaction after acquiring the airline. Also, while I liked all the jargon and realistic stock talk, I did get lost once in a while at what was happening.
Thanks to some knowledgeable writing and Stone's directing, this film still held up very well with its timeless dialogue and memorable performances.
What I would change
Nothing.
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