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andynicholas_uk
Reviews
American Pie 2 (2001)
More of the same, laugh out loud funny!
I didn't think that the original would possibly be topped, but here is a sequel that is genuinely on a par with its predecessor. The four protagonists from the original are back home after the first year at college to party for the summer. The first 20 minutes feels like a re-write of the original, embarrassing situation, followed by a party at Stiffler's. However, when the police drop by, they need a new place to party. So, with Stiffler in tow, the four rent a beach-house, painting by day, and partying hard at night. Or so their plan goes. Jim is still hopeless with girls. So when Nadia calls to say she will see him, he seeks out Michelle to help him out. Cue band camp sequences of total hillarity! Meanwhile, the others still pine after their loves from the previous film. In truth, there is not a universal plot, just a series of intertwining stories. This is by no means a bad thing, as it gives the film a good flow. Aside from that, it is incredibly funny. There are less 'memorable' scenes than in the first movie, but there are lots of gags inbetween these to keep you interested. The characters are as lovable as ever, the soundtrack is incredible, and there is plenty of scope for a third film. Some of the scenes wear a little thin, but this is a nit picking quibble. Go see this now unless you are easily offended, in which case go see it anyway!!! 10/10
The Truth About Cats & Dogs (1996)
See this now!!!!!!!!!!!!
Some films barely last in the memory for 2 seconds, some for hours, and some become those films you never forget. This is one of them, largely as it is, quite simply, the greatest film ever made! Okay, so the plot is not complex and particularly original, but it works, filled with some funny lines. The film never outstays its welcome in any scenes, all directed well, with some nice backdrops thrown in for good measure. However, it is the quality of the acting which truly stands out. All 3 leads are outstanding, as is the wonderful dog, (how did they get the rollerskates on him?!?!?), and make sure that the script is exploited to the full. It made me laugh and cry, and I was applauding by the end. Forget 4 hour epics, and Oscars, the real gem is here. Truly incredible. 11/10!!!!!!!
Legend of the Roller Blade Seven (1992)
Errrr... oh dear!
One summer afternoon, a friend of mine brought this to watch. After that, it is a testament to our friendship that I forgave him for it. It is the only movie in history where the cover sleeve actually tells you more about the plot than the film itself. The post apocalyptic world here appears to be a car park in Tucson, where people randomly dance around, and, well, what they actually do is beyond me to be honest! The dark desert surroundings show that... I don't know that either. So what do I know? This is easily the worst film ever made. The dialogue is vague, the acting appalling, the direction mindless, (do we need to see a very poorly acted scene 25,000 times from various angles?), and even the credits are wrong, (appearing randomly throughout the film). There are no saving graces, not even to laugh at it. It is awful. If I could give -1/10, I would. Don't even consider this!!!!! 0/10
High Fidelity (2000)
Could I be more enthusiastic?
Often movies of famous novels often fall short of the expectations of the reader. This, however, is undoubtedly not the case with this particular movie. As with the novel, we start with Rob, (John Cusack), discussing in monologue with the camera about his top 5 breakups. This device works well, and gives the audience plenty of food for thought as well as laughs throughout the film, as he deals with his job, his employees and his own conscience.
The basic premise of the plot is hardly stretching of the imagination, but that isn't the point. It is a phenomenal insight into the mind of modern man, (yes, I too identified with aspects of the lead!!!!!!!!). The script, despite transferring to Chicago from London, loses none of the humour and the wit of the book. Punchy and filled with laughs, you will never be looking at the watch. Indeed, many of the jokes are picked up on only at a second viewing. The acting is first class. The numerous cameos, (most notably from Tim Robbins), all dovetail nicely with the lead, with Cusack giving another reason why he is the best actor in Hollywood at the moment. But, above all else, Jack Black is incredible as Barry. Give the man an Oscar now! The direction is fluid, with the backdrops of the city mixed in for good measure. In fact, there is nothing not to dislike about this film.
In an impressive film year, this beats all comers. See it now! If you have, see it again!