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gumplord
Reviews
Timmy's Wish (2002)
Cognitive Dissonance
I happened to come across this short film on AtomFilms by chance, and I must say that I'm not sorry I did. This movie is so revolting in concept that it in no way can be taken seriously-- a true dark comedy. However, it is most certainly not for the faint of heart or those easily offended. I found myself wondering what this little boy's real-life parents had to say about his participation in this project. I found myself wondering what this little boy had to say about his own participation in this project. Indeed, those might be intriguing discussions to have. I found myself shocked and outraged, yet applauding. I really don't know what else to say about the film, as I've never seen anything like it. In me, it achieved cognitive dissonance at its best, which is a good thing. To anyone anywhere who might have the capacity to put this out on DVD in some fashion: Please do!! 9/10.
The Butterfly Effect (2004)
Decent brain candy (no, not what you might think)...
I'll have to be honest... I elected not to see this movie in the theatre because of my historical dislike of Ashton Kutcher, based on his previous work. Upon reading through several reviews of the film, my initial concerns appeared to have been validated. However, I came across The Butterfly Effect at the video store recently and decided to give it a shot. Needless to say, I am quite glad I did. Some of the major criticisms relate to the perceived plot holes surrounding the issue of theoretical time travel. I agree that there are imperfections here; however, I also recognize that sacrifices must at times be made in order to tell a story that the viewer will find appealing and interesting. Call it poetic license...after all, it is intended to be a piece of art, NOT a research paper on temporal theory. One of the characteristics I look for in a good film is the extent to which it elicits intellectual debate (brain candy), because I believe good intellectual debate is a positive contribution to society. This one, for better or worse, certainly has done that. There has been ample critique of the acting in this film as well. I won't go as far as to say there are any Oscar-worthy performances here, but the performances were more than adequate. Mr. Kutcher delved very well into uncharted territory in this movie, which was refreshing. I actually found myself liking him, which I never thought would happen. I was also very impressed with the performances of the kids in this movie -- particularly Logan Lerman (Evan at age 7) and Jesse James (Tommy at age 13). All in all, 8 out of 10--
Mickey (2004)
Not your typical Hollywood fanfare
I decided to take in this film primarily because it showcases the premier event of my hometown, by virtue of which has allowed me its access. I went in with few expectations, and left feeling quite satisfied. This film certainly ventures from the typical Hollywood fluff one might expect from a movie featuring Little League Baseball, casting a dark aura about an event cherished for its purity. Some off-beat humor slips in from time to time, as well as some stunning contrast of emotion rarely seen in mainstream films. I also paid attention to many of the details, given that I spent my childhood late Augusts watching the games at Lamade Stadium. I will say I would have loved to see in some of the shots children sliding down the upper hill behind Lamade on pieces of cardboard boxes, which has become a trademark of Little League Baseball ambiance, but I understand the absence. All in all, good viewing, and a shame that this film will likely pass into relative obscurity.
The Sixth Sense (1999)
Brilliant performance in a difficult role
I went to see this movie for one reason; the advertised subject matter alone would not have been enough to coax me into driving to the theatre. When I noticed that Haley Osment had a lead role (or, technically, a "supporting" role, but I don't buy that-- he is the lead in this one), I knew it was something to check out. I recalled seeing him several years younger in that shortly-lived sitcom "Thunder Alley" with Jonathan Winters, and I remember having had the distinct impression that he had talent, and that I should keep an eye out for him in the future. I saw this movie very early following its release, well before word had really spread about how great his performance was, so I can honestly say other peoples' opinions had no influence on my perception. Anyway, I came out of the theatre thinking this kid was truly brilliant, in a role very difficult for most child actors to pull off even well. I felt, and still feel, that Haley's performance-- and only his-- made this movie first class. At the time, I thought he should get an Oscar, but I never thought he stood a chance. I'm glad others have noticed him in this one.
Motorama (1991)
Brilliantly done art flick!
Although this film never attained commercial notoriety, my experience has led me to conclude that many well-done pieces of artistic expression often do not gain mass appeal. The story line depicts a young boy stealing a car and embarking on a surreal, dream-like adventure with very little basis in our conceptualization of time and space. Therefore, anyone who attempts to view this film from the perspective of its conformity to reality will likely be disappointed; it is not intended to be "realistic." It is, however, intended to be metaphoric with extensive symbolism apparent to those with superb attention to detail. In addition, the symbolic representations are left open for interpretation, which can be said of much great artwork. Don't be fooled by the cover (if you happen to rent or buy this film)-- the movie is not what it might seem to be on the surface.