Wen-2 Reviews

Two Weeks Notice (2002)

Grant and Bullock= Natural Charm In Light Comedy

[8/10 · 9 March 2003]

This was an enjoyable and very charming film. Hugh Grant at his worst is better than most other actors, who try vainly to muster up some charm and wit, to bring credibility to light romantic comedy. Sandra Bullock, while not one my favorites, does exude a certain likeability; I think this was a perfect vehicle, showcasing their particular types of appeal. Sandra, down to earth; Hugh Grant, the essence of British elegance and charm. I am a proud American, but I don't think crudeness is essential to being one. Oh well! maybe in a couple of hundred years, the cowboy, redneck, crudeness which most Americans seem to adore, will seem ridiculous as it does to me already.

This film was not without flaws. But the romantic comedy as a genre = the ability of the cast to be charming and witty, with some decent writing and direction to help things along. Thus, 'Two Weeks Notice' succeeds, with some charm to spare. Nevermind, that Grant and Bullock's roles are almost identical to some of their other vehicles; it still is more entertaining that most of it competitors.

I always cringe when reviewers viciously deride terribly talented people, especially when one of them is Hugh Grant. This guy has more class and natural charm, in one baby finger, than the pompous, terribly bitter and probably totally charmless reviewer, who remarked that the charms of the lead actors had worn off years ago. I would guess the person who wrote the review probably would write gushing reviews of crappola masterpieces like 'Maid in Manhattan' or 'Sweet Home Alabama'. Let's round out the 6.6 rating the film actually deserves to a weak 7. That should rattle a few chains. Incidentally, I am well over 35, so maybe that explains some of my views.

Ecstasy (1933)

Symphony of Love= appropriate title

[10/10 · 28 May 1999]

The alternate title of Ecstasy, is Symphony of Love; a title which appropriately describes the mood and feel of the film. Ecstasy is an early talkie, and could have very well been a classic film, if released during the silent film era. This film is a visual treat, and is deliberately paced so the viewer can savour its sensuous lyric quality, which is presented in an artistic low-key fashion. The director's style is distinctly European. The subject matter and approach to sexuality was far more sophisticated, than what was being produced in Hollywood, at that time. Consider the censorship code in the US, during the 30's, that pretty much sums it up. Hedy Lamarr, one of the great beauties of all time, was a perfect choice for this 'Symphony of Love.'

Giant (1956)

One of the most underrated classics in film history

[10/10 · 5 September 1998]

I first saw this film when I was 12 years old. It instantly became my favorite film of all time. I've seen it at least 6 times in the last thirty years, and enjoy it more each time. I was pleased to see that it at least made the top 100 films of all time list, I believe it was the National Board of Review; If not, it was as prestigious an organization.

Great characterizations abound! Never has a films with such youthful leads, generated so much emotional impact. Even though George Stevens deservedly won for Best Director, the film should have garnered more Oscars, it was nominated in 11 or 12 categories. It definitely superior in every way to Mike Todd's "Around the World in 80 Days", even though that was a delightful movie, but clearly without the substance of "Giant".

I always dreamed that subsequent generations would discover this movie and lift it to the blockbuster status that it deserves. I encourage anyone to see this movie, it has held up flawlessly over the years. A honest to goodness fabulous movie!