MurFilms Reviews

Marion Bridge (2002)

Spectacular Film

[8/10 · 11 April 2003]

I recently saw this film at it's premiere in Los Angeles. This was by far one of the best independent films that I have seen in a long time. The script was powerful and emotional without being too preachy. The acting was flawless including the performances by Molly Parker, Rebecca Jenkins and even the young Ellen Page.

The directing and cinematography was exceptional. This is a deep film involving the lives of 3 very interesting sisters and their bond that will never break. Go see this film!

You Can Count on Me (2000)

One of the Year's Best

[8/10 · 7 January 2001]

I have to say that I expected a lot more from this movie, but I was still not disappointed at all when leaving the film "You Can Count on Me." The acting was phenomenal and the story was very real and touching. Although there was no "Umpfh" to the film, I still found it to be a great story of unconditional love in families. I believe that there should have been more said about the death of the main characters' parents. This is a touching idea and it should have been developed further. Thumbs up for newcomer Rory Culkin. He makes his brothers look like amateurs. If your looking for a real story with real people, real acting, and without all of the Hype (like Cast Away), go see this film.

Cast Away (2000)

Biggest Disappointment Of the Year

[6/10 · 7 January 2001]

When I saw the trailer for this highly HYPED movie, I was in awe. I knew that with the Direction of Robert Zemeckis and the acting abilities of Hanks and Hunt, this movie could not have any flaws. That was my first mistake... SPOILER ALERT Then I went to see the movie. That was my second mistake. The idea for the film was great. A man on the verge of getting married gets stranded on an island for 4 years (a little too long) and returns home to find out that his "fiance" is married with kids. This film was predictable, and nerve racking. In a crucial part in the film, Hanks and Hunt meet, but they have NOTHING to say!!!! Did the writers of this film fall asleep during this part of the film, or did they just think that the audiences would flock to see this film regardless of how the writing is. Well, they were right. They hooked me in and fooled me to believing that "Cast Away" was a good film. I guess that you should never assume that the words Zemeckis or Hanks or Hunt don't mean "great movie" afterall.