Viewed in
2012
Formats
HDTV
Premise
Harrison Ford stars as a U.S. president who finds himself hijacked on his one Air Force One jet.
Liked
Strong directing.
Disliked
First Lady and Daughter, unresolved subplots.
Thoughts
I enjoyed the exciting and suspenseful action airplane-based sequences. This was attributed to the very clear direction by Wolfgang Petersen, quite a different style compared to the shaky-camera style of today.
Another reason to like it was the cast. Ford still had some heat on his fastball, and Gary Oldman was threatening and juicy as the antagonist, even while overacting. In addition, the cast included Glenn Close, William H. Macy, Philip Baker Hall, and two 24 alums, Xander Berkeley and Glenn Morshower (even though I couldn't identify him onscreen).
While the cast was mostly solid, the actresses who played the First Lady and their daughter were completely overmatched. Story-wise, there were plenty of issues, such as Berkeley's unexplained motives and the arbitrary subplot of the press conference. Technology used in and for the film was dated, especially in the form of cell phones and amateur-looking CGI plane crashes. Lastly, Ford's "Get off my plane!" soundbite has got to be one of the lamest movie quotes I've ever heard.
Despite its flaws and archaic moments, Air Force One was still a solid popcorn movie, thanks to good directing and cast performance.
Showing posts with label 1997. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1997. Show all posts
Anastasia
Viewed in
1997, 1998
Premise
A orphaned Russian girl might be the lost princess Anastasia.
Who should watch
Fans of the genre.
Thoughts
Not bad for a non-Disney movie. The music was surprisingly good and memorable, especially the haunting 'Once Upon a December'. I also really liked the cute and weird Bartok, the talking bat sidekick.
What I would change
Nothing.
1997, 1998
Premise
A orphaned Russian girl might be the lost princess Anastasia.
Who should watch
Fans of the genre.
Thoughts
Not bad for a non-Disney movie. The music was surprisingly good and memorable, especially the haunting 'Once Upon a December'. I also really liked the cute and weird Bartok, the talking bat sidekick.
What I would change
Nothing.
As Good as it Gets
Viewed in
1998
Premise
A grumpy writer deals with a gay neighbor and a single-mom waitress.
Who should watch
Those who like well-acted, well-written films.
Thoughts
A very solid film with humor and character. The writing was full of funny lines and had four genuine characters. On top of that, Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear and Cuba Gooding Jr create a great ensemble performance.
It was hard to find any flaws with this film, but I would not consider it best of the year. Very satisfying, but not great.
What I would change
Nothing.
1998
Premise
A grumpy writer deals with a gay neighbor and a single-mom waitress.
Who should watch
Those who like well-acted, well-written films.
Thoughts
A very solid film with humor and character. The writing was full of funny lines and had four genuine characters. On top of that, Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear and Cuba Gooding Jr create a great ensemble performance.
It was hard to find any flaws with this film, but I would not consider it best of the year. Very satisfying, but not great.
What I would change
Nothing.
Austin Powers International Man of Mystery
Viewed in
1997 (2), 1998 (2), 1999
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Mike Myers spoofs Bond movies as a 1970's spy cryogenically frozen until the 1990's.
Loved
The funny Bond parodies.
Liked
The cast.
Thoughts
I don't remember much, but I recall enjoying the 007 jokes, especially after watching the first two Bond movies. Mike Myers was funny as Austin Powers and Dr. Evil, Elizabeth Hurley was gorgeous, and it introduced the world to Will, Ferrell, Seth Green and Verne Troyer.
Biggest drawback was probably that the famous catchphrases have become so overused that people would cringe if you tried to say any of them more than a decade later.
What I would change
Not sure.
1997 (2), 1998 (2), 1999
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
Mike Myers spoofs Bond movies as a 1970's spy cryogenically frozen until the 1990's.
Loved
The funny Bond parodies.
Liked
The cast.
Thoughts
I don't remember much, but I recall enjoying the 007 jokes, especially after watching the first two Bond movies. Mike Myers was funny as Austin Powers and Dr. Evil, Elizabeth Hurley was gorgeous, and it introduced the world to Will, Ferrell, Seth Green and Verne Troyer.
Biggest drawback was probably that the famous catchphrases have become so overused that people would cringe if you tried to say any of them more than a decade later.
What I would change
Not sure.
Batman & Robin
Viewed in
1997
Formats
Movie theater
Premise
George Clooney takes over in the fourth installment of the franchise, as the dynamic duo and Batgirl (Alicia Silverstone) battle Mr. Freeze (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Poison Ivy (Uma Thurman).
Thoughts
When the only things you remember were nipples on the Batsuit and Arnold spouting puns like "Let's kick some ice!", you know the movie sucks. A possible candidate for unintentional comedy, but I'm not going to bother re-watching to find out.
What I would change
Not made this movie?
1997
Formats
Movie theater
Premise
George Clooney takes over in the fourth installment of the franchise, as the dynamic duo and Batgirl (Alicia Silverstone) battle Mr. Freeze (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Poison Ivy (Uma Thurman).
Thoughts
When the only things you remember were nipples on the Batsuit and Arnold spouting puns like "Let's kick some ice!", you know the movie sucks. A possible candidate for unintentional comedy, but I'm not going to bother re-watching to find out.
What I would change
Not made this movie?
Boogie Nights
Viewed in
2002
Formats
DVD
Premise
Marky Mark Wahlberg stars as Dirk Diggler, porn star of the 1970's and 1980's.
Thoughts
Memory's fuzzy, but I recall some strong acting from Wahlberg and an incredibly deep. It was funny as well as dramatic. One of my favorite scenes was two characters waiting to rob a guy at gunpoint, but someone in the background kept shooting off firecrackers, creating a super-tense moment. I also remember Heather Graham as Roller Girl, and Dirk trying to be a singer by singing "The Touch".
What I would change
No idea.
2002
Formats
DVD
Premise
Marky Mark Wahlberg stars as Dirk Diggler, porn star of the 1970's and 1980's.
Thoughts
Memory's fuzzy, but I recall some strong acting from Wahlberg and an incredibly deep. It was funny as well as dramatic. One of my favorite scenes was two characters waiting to rob a guy at gunpoint, but someone in the background kept shooting off firecrackers, creating a super-tense moment. I also remember Heather Graham as Roller Girl, and Dirk trying to be a singer by singing "The Touch".
What I would change
No idea.
Chasing Amy
Viewed in
1997, 2006
Premise
A guy falls in love with a lesbian.
Who should watch
Kevin Smith fans. Anyone who has been in a relationship.
Thoughts
Once you accept this film to be half comedy and half drama, you will enjoy Kevin Smith's best film.
The biggest strength of the film was, of course, the clever, edgy and funny dialogue. What was different about this film was that the characters actually behaved and moved the story, instead of saying funny lines for the sake of being funny. The realism about relationships and the solid acting made this a truthful, enlightening film. The best scene outside the hockey rink was just heartbreaking.
What I would change
Not market it as just a raunchy Kevin Smith movie.
1997, 2006
Premise
A guy falls in love with a lesbian.
Who should watch
Kevin Smith fans. Anyone who has been in a relationship.
Thoughts
Once you accept this film to be half comedy and half drama, you will enjoy Kevin Smith's best film.
The biggest strength of the film was, of course, the clever, edgy and funny dialogue. What was different about this film was that the characters actually behaved and moved the story, instead of saying funny lines for the sake of being funny. The realism about relationships and the solid acting made this a truthful, enlightening film. The best scene outside the hockey rink was just heartbreaking.
What I would change
Not market it as just a raunchy Kevin Smith movie.
Con Air
Viewed in
1999
Formats
DVD
Premise
Nicholas Cage stars as a former U.S. Ranger about to be released from prison, when his transport plan is taken over by the ruthless convicts.
Thoughts
I don't remember much, except that it was loud and obnoxious, in a good way. There was tons of explosive violence, wacky characters, and a really cool cast.
What I would change
No idea.
1999
Formats
DVD
Premise
Nicholas Cage stars as a former U.S. Ranger about to be released from prison, when his transport plan is taken over by the ruthless convicts.
Thoughts
I don't remember much, except that it was loud and obnoxious, in a good way. There was tons of explosive violence, wacky characters, and a really cool cast.
What I would change
No idea.
Donnie Brasco
Viewed in
2007
Premise
The story of an undercover cop infiltrating the mob and having trouble getting out.
Who should watch
Fans of Johnny Depp and Al Pacino.
Thoughts
Al Pacino and Johnny Depp together. Enough said. I was afraid I would get the typical 'Scarface' acting from Pacino, but he toned it down. This was a great, subtle performance as near-broken veteran mobster just struggling to stay in the game. Johnny Depp also toned down his Johnny Depp style as the cop who doesn't realize how deep of a hole he has dug. There was a strong supporting cast, including Michael Madsen and the late great Bruno Kirby. If you look closely, you could spot Paul Giamatti.
As with most undercover cop movies, you have backstabbing mobsters, some bloody violence, colorful dialogue and the suffering cop's wife. But while the characters do ascend the mob ladder, the heart of the story was about the struggle to stay alive and sane.
What I would change
Nothing.
2007
Premise
The story of an undercover cop infiltrating the mob and having trouble getting out.
Who should watch
Fans of Johnny Depp and Al Pacino.
Thoughts
Al Pacino and Johnny Depp together. Enough said. I was afraid I would get the typical 'Scarface' acting from Pacino, but he toned it down. This was a great, subtle performance as near-broken veteran mobster just struggling to stay in the game. Johnny Depp also toned down his Johnny Depp style as the cop who doesn't realize how deep of a hole he has dug. There was a strong supporting cast, including Michael Madsen and the late great Bruno Kirby. If you look closely, you could spot Paul Giamatti.
As with most undercover cop movies, you have backstabbing mobsters, some bloody violence, colorful dialogue and the suffering cop's wife. But while the characters do ascend the mob ladder, the heart of the story was about the struggle to stay alive and sane.
What I would change
Nothing.
Face/Off
Viewed in
1997, 1998, 2000, 2012
Formats
Movie theater, DVD, VHS, HDTV
Premise
John Travolta and Nicolas Cage star as rival cop/crook who swap faces in attempt to bring each other down. Directed by John Woo.
Loved
Over-the-top action and acting.
Thoughts
Watching it fifteen years later, it definitely has a charming campy feel to it now. Back when it just came out and I was much younger, I thought it was totally cool. Now I just giggle a lot.
Director Woo definitely made the most of a Hollywood budget, with slick slow-motion and ballet-life gunfights galore. Although every once in a while, you can see wires and obvious stunt-doubles.
The performances by the leads were outrageous and laughable, but frankly, I wouldn't want it any other way in a ridiculous premised flick like this. And who better to ham it up than two of the best, Travolta and Cage. Joan Allen acted with dignity in the madness, and Gina Gershon was sensuous as usual. As a fan of 24, it was cool to see the First Husband as the doctor. It was also interesting to see Margaret Cho in a serious, albeit minute role.
In addition to Cage and Travolta trying to out-crazy each other, a lot of unintentional comedy came from outdated technology, complete ignorance about plastic surgery, glaring plot holes, and illogical movie logic.
Overall, Face/Off has aged into one of those 1990's action flicks that would make a good drinking game. I don't think the movie makers intended to make it so back in the day. Nevertheless, it is still entertaining and re-watchable, just for different reasons.
1997, 1998, 2000, 2012
Formats
Movie theater, DVD, VHS, HDTV
Premise
John Travolta and Nicolas Cage star as rival cop/crook who swap faces in attempt to bring each other down. Directed by John Woo.
Loved
Over-the-top action and acting.
Thoughts
Watching it fifteen years later, it definitely has a charming campy feel to it now. Back when it just came out and I was much younger, I thought it was totally cool. Now I just giggle a lot.
Director Woo definitely made the most of a Hollywood budget, with slick slow-motion and ballet-life gunfights galore. Although every once in a while, you can see wires and obvious stunt-doubles.
The performances by the leads were outrageous and laughable, but frankly, I wouldn't want it any other way in a ridiculous premised flick like this. And who better to ham it up than two of the best, Travolta and Cage. Joan Allen acted with dignity in the madness, and Gina Gershon was sensuous as usual. As a fan of 24, it was cool to see the First Husband as the doctor. It was also interesting to see Margaret Cho in a serious, albeit minute role.
In addition to Cage and Travolta trying to out-crazy each other, a lot of unintentional comedy came from outdated technology, complete ignorance about plastic surgery, glaring plot holes, and illogical movie logic.
Overall, Face/Off has aged into one of those 1990's action flicks that would make a good drinking game. I don't think the movie makers intended to make it so back in the day. Nevertheless, it is still entertaining and re-watchable, just for different reasons.
Fever Pitch
Viewed in
2007
Premise
Based on the Nick Horsnby novel about a hardcore Arsenal fan who falls in love with a non-football woman.
Who should watch
Anyone who is in a relationship.
Thoughts
It's not a total sports flick nor chick flick, but it contained lots of laughs and heart.
What I liked best was the realistic look at the psyche and heart of a diehard sports fan. As a fan of a certain sports team, I could totally relate. The heart comes from whether a hardcore fan can coexist with someone who isn't. Every aspect was handled intelligently.
I have not seen the remake yet. Sorry.
What I would change
Nothing.
2007
Premise
Based on the Nick Horsnby novel about a hardcore Arsenal fan who falls in love with a non-football woman.
Who should watch
Anyone who is in a relationship.
Thoughts
It's not a total sports flick nor chick flick, but it contained lots of laughs and heart.
What I liked best was the realistic look at the psyche and heart of a diehard sports fan. As a fan of a certain sports team, I could totally relate. The heart comes from whether a hardcore fan can coexist with someone who isn't. Every aspect was handled intelligently.
I have not seen the remake yet. Sorry.
What I would change
Nothing.
Fifth Element
Viewed in
2003, 2010
Formats
DVD, HD TV
Premise
Bruce Willis stars in Luc Besson's futuristic epic as a taxi driver who stumbles upon a mysterious lady who is key to saving Earth from doom.
Loved
The kinetic visual style, Chris Tucker's scene-stealing performance.
Liked
The cast, the goofy comedy.
Thoughts
An interesting, colorful film with a very entertaining second hour.
Director Luc Besson usually makes intriguing films, and his stab at space opera was pretty strong. His visuals for the future were fantastic, from floating noodle ships, to outlandish costume designs, to pronounced backgrounds and sets. I loved his unique take on making the future so colorful, like a mad painter splashing life into every corner of this universe.
Unlike most science fiction flicks, it did not take itself too seriously. There was constant flow of goofy visuals, bumbling caretakers and henchmen, silly one-liners and even some campy comedy. The film truly kicked into high gear with Chris Tucker's insertion halfway through. His memorably hilarious role as the flamboyant TV personality upped the comedy and energy into the stratosphere.
The rest of the cast was excellent. Bruce Willis was in top form as the grumpy, wise-cracking badass. The sexy Milla Jovovich played the charming, childlike alien. I also greatly enjoyed the offbeat performances of Sir Ian Holm and Gary Oldman. Oldman's scene of diffusing his own bomb was a great example of the entire film's sense of humor and creativity.
As great as the second half of the film was, I discovered while watching it again that the first half was a bit lacking in entertainment. Part of this had to do with the fact that there was no Tucker. But I also think it also had to do with the sometimes confusing plot, in which there were more than one set of bad guys, leading to an overload of characters to keep track of. Also, I am not sure if the opening sequence explaining the legend was necessary for story-telling.
While there was some diminishing returns upon multiple viewings, the second half was so hilarious and unique that it will always be one of my favorite science fiction films.
What I would change
Nothing.
2003, 2010
Formats
DVD, HD TV
Premise
Bruce Willis stars in Luc Besson's futuristic epic as a taxi driver who stumbles upon a mysterious lady who is key to saving Earth from doom.
Loved
The kinetic visual style, Chris Tucker's scene-stealing performance.
Liked
The cast, the goofy comedy.
Thoughts
An interesting, colorful film with a very entertaining second hour.
Director Luc Besson usually makes intriguing films, and his stab at space opera was pretty strong. His visuals for the future were fantastic, from floating noodle ships, to outlandish costume designs, to pronounced backgrounds and sets. I loved his unique take on making the future so colorful, like a mad painter splashing life into every corner of this universe.
Unlike most science fiction flicks, it did not take itself too seriously. There was constant flow of goofy visuals, bumbling caretakers and henchmen, silly one-liners and even some campy comedy. The film truly kicked into high gear with Chris Tucker's insertion halfway through. His memorably hilarious role as the flamboyant TV personality upped the comedy and energy into the stratosphere.
The rest of the cast was excellent. Bruce Willis was in top form as the grumpy, wise-cracking badass. The sexy Milla Jovovich played the charming, childlike alien. I also greatly enjoyed the offbeat performances of Sir Ian Holm and Gary Oldman. Oldman's scene of diffusing his own bomb was a great example of the entire film's sense of humor and creativity.
As great as the second half of the film was, I discovered while watching it again that the first half was a bit lacking in entertainment. Part of this had to do with the fact that there was no Tucker. But I also think it also had to do with the sometimes confusing plot, in which there were more than one set of bad guys, leading to an overload of characters to keep track of. Also, I am not sure if the opening sequence explaining the legend was necessary for story-telling.
While there was some diminishing returns upon multiple viewings, the second half was so hilarious and unique that it will always be one of my favorite science fiction films.
What I would change
Nothing.
The Full Monty
Viewed in
1998, 2013
Formats
VHS, HDTV
Premise
Six unemployed English steel workers form a male striptease act to raise money.
Loved
Charming characters, undertones of masculinity.
Liked
Performances, comedy.
Thoughts
Re-watching this as an adult, this lovable gem made so much more sense, and thankfully still held up in humor and charm.
Like most motley crews, you get certain expected archetypes. But their subplots and arcs were specific, fleshed-out, and executed with winning performances, especially Robert Carlyle as the troublesome divorced dad, Mark Addy as the self-conscious fat man, and the great Tom Wilkinson as the finance/pride-shackled former boss. All of their middle-lower class plights were relatable and fueled their humanity.
It got good mileage out of the premise of non-hunky dudes trying to replicate sexy male strippers. Yet it was done without being demeaning to the characters. As I've grown familiar with British humor over the years, I got to enjoy the darker jokes of suicide and male body image. In addition, the football (soccer), pop culture, British caste, redhead, and gay references/subtext made much more sense to me now.
Released in 1997, it was fascinating to see how it portrayed gay men. There was a gay subplot that would felt tame. But more shocking was how much gay slurs were used in their dialog. I guess you could defend it, claiming it reflected the vernacular of working class men before homosexuals were more accepted. But personally, it felt like it was awkwardly somewhere between ignorant/insensitive and hurtful.
Depending on how much realism you want, you could make a complaint that the ending wasn't a sustainable solution to these jobless folks, but I viewed The Full Monty kind of like a fairy tale. A very charming and funny story with plenty of humanity and truths, stemming from the needs/desperations/insecurities of everyday unemployed males.
1998, 2013
Formats
VHS, HDTV
Premise
Six unemployed English steel workers form a male striptease act to raise money.
Loved
Charming characters, undertones of masculinity.
Liked
Performances, comedy.
Thoughts
Re-watching this as an adult, this lovable gem made so much more sense, and thankfully still held up in humor and charm.
Like most motley crews, you get certain expected archetypes. But their subplots and arcs were specific, fleshed-out, and executed with winning performances, especially Robert Carlyle as the troublesome divorced dad, Mark Addy as the self-conscious fat man, and the great Tom Wilkinson as the finance/pride-shackled former boss. All of their middle-lower class plights were relatable and fueled their humanity.
It got good mileage out of the premise of non-hunky dudes trying to replicate sexy male strippers. Yet it was done without being demeaning to the characters. As I've grown familiar with British humor over the years, I got to enjoy the darker jokes of suicide and male body image. In addition, the football (soccer), pop culture, British caste, redhead, and gay references/subtext made much more sense to me now.
Released in 1997, it was fascinating to see how it portrayed gay men. There was a gay subplot that would felt tame. But more shocking was how much gay slurs were used in their dialog. I guess you could defend it, claiming it reflected the vernacular of working class men before homosexuals were more accepted. But personally, it felt like it was awkwardly somewhere between ignorant/insensitive and hurtful.
Depending on how much realism you want, you could make a complaint that the ending wasn't a sustainable solution to these jobless folks, but I viewed The Full Monty kind of like a fairy tale. A very charming and funny story with plenty of humanity and truths, stemming from the needs/desperations/insecurities of everyday unemployed males.
Gattaca
Viewed in
1998, 2001
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
In a world of genetic superiority, an imperfect man fakes his identity to achieve his dream of being a space traveler.
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I recall loving this film because of its writing and acting. Writer/director Andrew Niccol presented some interesting ideas and themes about manipulating embryos, DNA knowledge pre-determining fates, and genetics ethics. The well-acted cast was lead by Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, with scene-stealing performances by Jude Law.
What I would change
Nothing.
1998, 2001
Formats
VHS, DVD
Premise
In a world of genetic superiority, an imperfect man fakes his identity to achieve his dream of being a space traveler.
Thoughts
It's been a long time, but I recall loving this film because of its writing and acting. Writer/director Andrew Niccol presented some interesting ideas and themes about manipulating embryos, DNA knowledge pre-determining fates, and genetics ethics. The well-acted cast was lead by Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, with scene-stealing performances by Jude Law.
What I would change
Nothing.
George of the Jungle
Viewed in
1998 (2)
Formats
VHS
Premise
Brendan Fraser stars as the titular character in the live-action adaptation to the cartoon.
Thoughts
It's been forever, but I recall loving this film for its over-the-top goofy charm, thanks to the likable cast and comedy so silly I could not help but laugh out loud.
What I would change
Nothing.
1998 (2)
Formats
VHS
Premise
Brendan Fraser stars as the titular character in the live-action adaptation to the cartoon.
Thoughts
It's been forever, but I recall loving this film for its over-the-top goofy charm, thanks to the likable cast and comedy so silly I could not help but laugh out loud.
What I would change
Nothing.
Good Will Hunting
Viewed in
1997
Formats
VHS
Premise
Matt Damon stars as an uber-smart janitor who has psychological issues.
Thoughts
Don't remember much, except for "How 'bout dem apples?!", and that it was well-acted by Damon, Robin Williams and Ben Affleck. Also I was too young at the time to understand Minnie Driver's old couple joke.
What I would change
Not sure.
1997
Formats
VHS
Premise
Matt Damon stars as an uber-smart janitor who has psychological issues.
Thoughts
Don't remember much, except for "How 'bout dem apples?!", and that it was well-acted by Damon, Robin Williams and Ben Affleck. Also I was too young at the time to understand Minnie Driver's old couple joke.
What I would change
Not sure.
Grosse Pointe Blank
Viewed in
1998, 2012
Formats
VHS, HDTV
Premise
John Cusack stars as a troubled hitman sent on a job that happens to be where his high school reunion (and former sweetheart) is.
Loved
Quirky characters.
Liked
Dark, funny writing.
Thoughts
One of my favorite Cusack films of all time. Re-watching it fifteen years later, it still holds up really well.
What I loved best were the characters. From the leads to the minor roles, each was quirky and organic, even when discussing forming a hitman union or awkwardly hanging out at a high school reunion.
Cusack and Minnie Driver were freaking adorable. I'd probably watch those two characters cut coupons for two hours. Rest of the cast was just as fun. This was probably the last great role that I've seen Dan Aykroyd in. Joan Cusack was in her quirkiest best. Years before he was "discovered" in Little Miss Sunshine, Alan Arkin put in a really underrated performance as Cusack's frustrated shrink. I also dug the small moments by Jeremy Piven and Hank Azaria.
There were some brilliant moments, such as when Cusack realized his childhood house had become a convenience store, or any time someone reacted oddly when he confessed to being a professional killer. Cusack wooing Driver was precious. Even as the body count rose, the situations and characters remained organic. The obligatory shootout at the end was totally deserved thanks to the well-done story set up; it zinged hilarious one-liners while still achieving a satisfactory payoff.
As a fan, I was very happy to find out Grosse Point Blank had withstood the test of time, thanks to strong writing, quirky characters, and charming performances. Oh yeah, the 1980's soundtrack was pretty good, too.
1998, 2012
Formats
VHS, HDTV
Premise
John Cusack stars as a troubled hitman sent on a job that happens to be where his high school reunion (and former sweetheart) is.
Loved
Quirky characters.
Liked
Dark, funny writing.
Thoughts
One of my favorite Cusack films of all time. Re-watching it fifteen years later, it still holds up really well.
What I loved best were the characters. From the leads to the minor roles, each was quirky and organic, even when discussing forming a hitman union or awkwardly hanging out at a high school reunion.
Cusack and Minnie Driver were freaking adorable. I'd probably watch those two characters cut coupons for two hours. Rest of the cast was just as fun. This was probably the last great role that I've seen Dan Aykroyd in. Joan Cusack was in her quirkiest best. Years before he was "discovered" in Little Miss Sunshine, Alan Arkin put in a really underrated performance as Cusack's frustrated shrink. I also dug the small moments by Jeremy Piven and Hank Azaria.
There were some brilliant moments, such as when Cusack realized his childhood house had become a convenience store, or any time someone reacted oddly when he confessed to being a professional killer. Cusack wooing Driver was precious. Even as the body count rose, the situations and characters remained organic. The obligatory shootout at the end was totally deserved thanks to the well-done story set up; it zinged hilarious one-liners while still achieving a satisfactory payoff.
As a fan, I was very happy to find out Grosse Point Blank had withstood the test of time, thanks to strong writing, quirky characters, and charming performances. Oh yeah, the 1980's soundtrack was pretty good, too.
Hercules
Viewed in
1997
Premise
A Disney-fied Hercules movie.
Who should watch
Kids?
Thoughts
It had a unique animation style and James Woods was pretty cool as Hades, but the rest of it was forgettable. By Disney cartoon standards, it sucked. But I guess it would be a good way to distract kids for a while.
What I would change
Everything?
1997
Premise
A Disney-fied Hercules movie.
Who should watch
Kids?
Thoughts
It had a unique animation style and James Woods was pretty cool as Hades, but the rest of it was forgettable. By Disney cartoon standards, it sucked. But I guess it would be a good way to distract kids for a while.
What I would change
Everything?
Jackie Brown
Viewed in
2002
Premise
A flight attendant is caught smuggling for her boss and must decide between ratting him out or not.
Who should watch
Tarantino fans. Those who are familiar with the Del Amo Mall in Torrance, California.
Thoughts
Do not bother if you're expecting a another 'PUlp Fiction' or 'Reservoir Dogs'. This was Tarantino's most subdued and caring film. This was all about the acting, especially from Marc Forster. Kudos to the great Robert DeNiro for not being afraid of playing third/fourth fiddle in the story.
What I would change
Nothing.
2002
Premise
A flight attendant is caught smuggling for her boss and must decide between ratting him out or not.
Who should watch
Tarantino fans. Those who are familiar with the Del Amo Mall in Torrance, California.
Thoughts
Do not bother if you're expecting a another 'PUlp Fiction' or 'Reservoir Dogs'. This was Tarantino's most subdued and caring film. This was all about the acting, especially from Marc Forster. Kudos to the great Robert DeNiro for not being afraid of playing third/fourth fiddle in the story.
What I would change
Nothing.
Jurassic Park 2 The Lost World
Viewed in
1997
Premise
Sequel to 'Jurassic Park', in which they discover a second island full of even more dinosaurs.
Who should watch
Dinosaur fans.
Thoughts
Like most sequels, it sucked. It lacked the novelty, originality and fun of the first film. Jeff Goldblum is cool, but he was no Sam Neill.
There were some good things about it, mainly more special effects and more dinosaurs. Pete Postlethwaite was a cool addition.
If there was one reason to watch, it would be the incredulous, though fun, scene when a Tyrannosaurus Rex runs amok in San Diego.
What I would change
Better story, more Postlethwaite.
1997
Premise
Sequel to 'Jurassic Park', in which they discover a second island full of even more dinosaurs.
Who should watch
Dinosaur fans.
Thoughts
Like most sequels, it sucked. It lacked the novelty, originality and fun of the first film. Jeff Goldblum is cool, but he was no Sam Neill.
There were some good things about it, mainly more special effects and more dinosaurs. Pete Postlethwaite was a cool addition.
If there was one reason to watch, it would be the incredulous, though fun, scene when a Tyrannosaurus Rex runs amok in San Diego.
What I would change
Better story, more Postlethwaite.
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