Luigitoo Reviews

Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

Savage, need a strong stomach

[8/10 · 1 March 2009]

There is no denying that this is a powerful drama. I have to say that all the awards, nominations and rave reviews paint a pretty picture of this film and its uplifting message. Fine, I accept that, but I was a late viewer of this film and I wish that I had been prepared for the R Rated stuff.

I don't usually have a weak stomach, but it was turned by more than one of the brutal scenes in this film. How accurate the depiction is I can only guess, but if the truth is close then it is a sickening portrayal. Clearly my life has been too sheltered if I am disturbed by the graphic and violent scenes, but be warned........ *Spoilers ahead BIG TIME!* Jamal loses his mother when she is beaten to death for being a Muslim, another man is set on fire in front of him, both happen on the same day when he is about 7. His brother appears to be a schizo sociopath, who rapes his best friend and love interest and steals her away from him for the second time out of a total of four. Another orphan friend of his is blinded (graphically) because he can sing and blind beggars make more money than sighted ones.

So to all those who are saying wow to the cinematography and directing and message etc etc I agree with all that, the directing especially is excellent, but I did not leave the theatre with a warm feeling of 'it is written' and 'destiny' and the 'strength of the human spirit to overcome'. I am left instead with extremely graphic images of the torture, betrayal, murder and corruption of modern Mumbai. NOT a place I plan to visit Ever and I thank my lucky stars that I was not born to the poverty of the slums of Mumbai. See this movie at your peril or at the very least, follow it immediately with a comedy or cartoon to assist with dumbing down the gag reflex!

Serenity (2005)

To the power of 10

[10/10 · 26 August 2005]

Yes I am gushing. Just returned from the Edinburgh Film Festival and before I review, I must say that I am a Firefly fan.

After the first 2 minutes, this film will pick you up and throw you against the wall. It will take you on a ride where you will laugh and cry and gasp and leave feeling totally exhilarated. This is pure aural and visual Ecstasy. This is everything a Firefly fan is expecting to the Power of 10. It is bigger, slicker, funnier, faster and smarter than Firefly and many of your questions will be answered. I highly recommend this film and will be seeing it again on general release in October. Put a circle in your diary and roll on the DVD. A**********

Connie and Carla (2004)

Popcorn, bubblegum and hairdo's

[10/10 · 31 August 2004]

I enjoyed Connie and Carla. Being a fan of musicals and Nia Vardalos, this film was a match made in heaven. The plot is not insightful and as this is not meant to be a cerebral offering, don't expect to have your brain cells challenged. Connie and Carla is a romp and I defy anyone not to be cheered by it. Follow Connie and Carla from singing in a cheerless airport lounge to Los Angeles as they flee a killer. Similar to Sister Act in the premise. The only way to hide and still sing, they dress as Drag Queens, but with a difference.... They can actually sing and don't lip sync. Throw in a little romance, a hilarious assassin, an ailing Drag club, brotherly love, good laughs and great songs and you have a mix that will draw you in with it's warmth and goodwill. Grab your girlfriends and tuck in!

Manny's Orphans (1978)

I found it at last!

[10/10 · 16 December 2003]

I have just found out that this film is called Manny's Orphans. I have only known it as Kick! which is impossible to find. I will have to wait for a re-run to watch this as an adult, but I was 9 when I watched it and it has stuck with me for over 20 years so far. I guess that other reviewers were watching with jaded adult eyes. All I can remember is that Pepe/Rosa was my hero/heroine! A girl dressing as a boy to play soccer! Wow! This was such a wonderful exciting thing for a girl to do. (I was born and raised in Southern Africa where girls were girls and heaven help you if you were interested in soccer or boys games!) When she was exposed as being a girl, she still went on to play and won! I know that this story has been done to death, but as this was my first sports film where the underdogs triumph, it stuck with me. Fingers cross that British television do a repeat on one of the old channels on satelite!

The New Guy (2002)

Highly recommended feel-good movie

[8/10 · 13 August 2002]

Wow, what a surprise. I thought that this movie would be another run of the mill high school story, but it is quirky and fun. Please note the tongue in cheek cheerleading by Eliza Dushku. Rent or buy Bring it On and The New Guy for a good night in.

Scrubs (2001–2010)

Excellent Show!

[21 March 2002]

I am too jaded now to laugh at much, but Scrubs has given me a few serious belly laughs. From the sassy title to the last line it is brilliant. Mr McGinley is in his element and has a character that fits him perfectly as the grumpy doctor with a heart of gold. Long live Scrubs!

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Blown away!

[10/10 · 16 October 1998]

Wow, for just under 3 hours I laughed, I cried, I was on the edge of my seat and I was craving a cigarette! This is the most exhausting movie I have ever seen. I staggered out of the theatre a shadow of my former self. I don't know if I have the stamina to see it again, but don't wait for the video. The big screen is the only place this movie belongs. phew!