kevinspaceysgrl Reviews

Thumbsucker (2005)

First Rate Film To Which Everyone Can Relate

[9/10 · 9 October 2005]

Thumbsucker is officially one of my favorite films of all time. One word to describe this film - ENGAGING. I was hopelessly hooked from the very first scene. Charming, funny, intense and, at times, hyper-real, you can't help but become part of the mixed-up world that Mike Mills has created for us. The dialog was fresh and truthful, the cast a well-oiled machine. But the star of the movie really took my breath away.

Lou Taylor Pucci, with his penetrating eyes, cherry-red lips and strong jaw, is so handsome that he is is almost beautiful. His soulful portrayal of Justin, a regular kid with a bad habit, sucks you in so completely that you feel yourself in his life, experiencing every hurt, your heart breaking for him. At times you also wish you could smack Justin and scream for him to just wake up and realize that he alone is the one in control of his life.

But that's the whole point of this film in my eyes. Taking that painful journey of realization, learning that we are all flawed beings and that life is simply what you make of it, is a hard road to travel. But, surely, it is a trip worth taking.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

Full of Surprises and Delights!

[9/10 · 16 July 2005]

Whatever you do, do not think of this movie as a "remake." It isn't. This film is a completely fresh approach to Willy Wonka based strongly on the book itself.

Truthfully, I thought the beginning of the film dragged just a bit, even thought the look and visual feel was amazing. But once we are introduced to Willy Wonka - pandemonium and riotous giggles ensue! Every word that comes from Johnny Depp's perfect Willy Wonka is a gem - guaranteed to make you laugh or your jaw drop. Truly, Johnny's performance MAKES the film.

Freddy Highmore, as Charlie, is pitch perfect. It doesn't hurt that just to look at him makes your heart break. Every time he appears on screen you want to grab him and hug him! But this talented boy plays Charlie as a strong kid who takes what is given him and makes the best of it. He is happy as long as he has his family. Absolutely brilliant!

Deep Roy as the Oompa Loompas was terrific as well. Burton really went the right way with how he portrayed the Oompa Loompas. Couldn't have been done better. And the musical numbers performed by the tiny men are some of the films best highlights.

Bottom line is - GO SEE IT! You won't be sorry. A film-going experience has never been sweeter!

Constantine (2005)

See it! You won't be sorry!

[9/10 · 20 February 2005]

"Constantine" is a dark, yet dazzling film. A terrific story backed up by spectacular special effects and great cinematography pull us into a dark and dangerous world - a world where half-angels and half-demons whisper to us mortals as God and Satan use us as pawns in an apocalyptic game of chess. Cursed with ability too see these spirits, John Constantine finds himself right in the middle of this showdown.

Keanu Reeves gives a fantastic turn as John Constantine. He infuses Constantine with a grim sense of purpose and dark humor. He is the ultimate anti-hero, and Reeves deftly takes Constantine from being someone we simply root for to someone we actually like and respect.

Rachel Weisz is terrific as well. Her tortured and soulful performance is the best of the film. Shia LaBeouf also blew me away.

I have not read the Hellblazer comics, but standing alone "Constantine" is a great film. This one is a must see!

Napoleon Dynamite (2004)

Pretty much the funniest movie ever made! Gosh!

[10/10 · 25 July 2004]

"Napoleon Dynamite" is one of the best films ever made!

Having said that, I don't think this film is for everyone. If you are an intelligent person who appreciates subtle humor, this movie IS for you!

The acting is nothing short of brilliant, the story is smart and sly, and the directing is superb. You will laugh until your sides ache!

I have a feeling that this movie will become a cult classic. Once you see this film you will be unable to stop quoting lines. This is one movie that sticks with you long after you leave the theater.

Go and see Napoleon Dynamite and remember, VOTE FOR PEDRO!