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pjlynch
Reviews
La passion de Jeanne d'Arc (1928)
Extraordinarily moving
Wow.
I saw this film on TCM and wasn't expecting much, but was totally blown away.
It follows the actual trial transcripts of Joan, as opposed to the Hollywood versions. Maria Falconetti in the title role is captivating. Think of Sinead O'Connor in "Nothing Compares To You". Her close-ups can be heartbreaking.
Dreyer's use of the close-up was novel from what I've read (I'm more of a Hitchcock scholar). Well, if he was experimenting with it, he pretty much perfected it for that time period.
This is a very emotional film well worth seeing!
Running on Empty (1988)
Masterful Performances
This is one of those films where the plot takes second place to the performances, but in a good way . It's just that the plot seems to bring out the best in each and every one of these actors.
There are great scenes throughout, but a particular poignant one between Christine Lahti and Steven Hill is breathtaking. You feel like a third person in a conversation that you really didn't want to witness.
If you want to see great actors act, and see a great director direct, see this film!
Dirty Baby Does Fire Island (1998)
Twisted and hilarious
This director gets a prize for original thought, as well as putting together a sick and funny little film. Using stop frame photography, we follow the little naked plastic "baby doll" around Fire Island, seeing what (s)he sees. The photography is great, and "baby doll's" voice is even better!
$30 (1999)
Great little flick
It's not too often that a fairly complete story can be told in a short film, but $30 does it well. The believability is there from the start, so the story just falls into place. A great coming of age story, for both of the leads. Pay attention to what Sara Gilbert is watching on TV, by the way!