ablbodyed Reviews

The Deep End (2001)

Impressive film.

[8/10 · 5 July 2004]

I rarely review films, but I can't help but review this one. I have bought DVD's of films that I have no knowledge of, based on the reviews in home movie guides, and I have usually been disappointed. NOT THIS TIME! The review was good, but I think the film is better than what was said. One of the benefits of a DVD is the ease in pausing it, and I partake of that benefit almost every time I view a film. NOT THIS TIME!!!! I won't go into detail about the plot because that information is available elsewhere, but my impression of a good story well told remains several days after seeing the DVD. This is what sticks in my mind: First: excellent acting by the three leads. These are not "Attention, attention, I'm acting here" performances. They are simply convincing. I believed these people were who they were supposed to be, especially Tilda Swinton, but also Goren Visnjic. There is a naturalism that is refreshing. You will be even more convinced of Ms. Swinton's craft when you watch the extras on the DVD: I had forgotten that she is British. Second: The cinematography is outstanding! Perhaps I am responding to something not worth commenting on but I felt that the quality of the film stock was better than on many films that I see: great natural colors; a dense, almost rich look. The framing was excellent; and there were several reflection/refraction scenes that give the film a distinct style, while silently commenting on the action. There is also a scene with a boat that is quite special. Third: the music is very fine, without being overwhelming. Fourth: the story is supported by excellent dialogue; believable lines delivered by people who believe them. Fifth, and probably the key asset: the direction is outstanding, especially considering that it was a tandem effort. All-in-all, THE DEEP END is a very enjoyable experience, one which I will delay having, but which I WILL have again.

King of Kings (1961)

SPARE US.....

[18 November 2003]

When I was 13 and still taken in by sanctimoniousness, I found this 'film' watchable. Now, however, when I see this tripe, I just howl.

A blue-eyed semite? What Euro-centric drivel. How anyone can suspend thought and be moved by this obviously patronizing pander is beyond me, but with more than 50% of those polled STILL thinking that the chimp in the White House is an honorable man, nothing surprises me about the imbecilities and self-serving blindness of the American public. This movie, like christianity today, is all gloss and no substance. The acting: barely adequate to dismal; the cimenatography: OK, but uninspired; the script: wonderful for non-thinkers; the music: Miklos, Miklos, why hast thou forsaken me? Christianity is more than having the ability to maintain a smug look of false piety and throwing a few bucks into a collection plate. I believe that this 'film' did more than any to drive a stake through the heart of biblical epics. THANK GOD, it had some positive benefits.

Red Dirt (2000)

An OK film

[13 January 2003]

This film is getting a lot of (-) comments, and I can see their point of view, BUT, it's better than the're saying. True it's slow moving, but that captures the essence of the story. These are frightened and careful people, trapped in a backwater, and, though unstated, the brutality of Conservative Christian bigotry has great influence on their behavior. The love between the two guys didn't come from nowhere: from the first time they saw each other there was an electric current between them. The shower scene was almost explicit: Griffith COULDN'T KEEP HIS EYES OFF LEE!!!!. and the gay shop-keeper knew instantly there was something. And while the ending was overtly disappointing, I believe that, down the road (pun intended) they're going to get together. Acting was mostly good, but Walton Goggins was HOTTTTT. Watch him on "The Shield" and see what a good actor he is. All in all, I enjoyed the film, but WHAT WAS that short on the DVD?

Best in Show (2000)

I'm still laughing.

[9/10 · 12 March 2002]

This is one of the funniest movies I've seen in ages. I watched for about 20 minutes, slightly puzzled by what was going on. Then I started to laugh and didn't stop 'til long after the movie ended. Such deadpan satire is rare indeed. Christopher Guest has a true eye for the humor inherent in those who have no sense of humor about themselves (about 90% of white heterosexual males, to start with). As in "Waiting for Guffman" Guest nails middle America's idiotic self-importance to the wall. I can hardly wait for his next film.

Mutiny on the Bounty (1962)

Good flick

[7/10 · 12 March 2002]

A much better movie than it was ever given credit for being. Gorgeous cinematography, excellent acting, much more believable motivations than in the '35 film. I liked it when I first saw it and I still do.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

What a thrilling experience

[10/10 · 8 March 2002]

I just loved this movie. The effects were stunning, the scenery magnificent, and the art direction astonishing. What can one say about the story? It's exciting, SCARY, and emotional. I can hardly wait for the next one. Canny of the producers to make us wait.