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tomjtleslie
Reviews
Empty Spaces (2019)
What makes a good movie?
Actually, I was not expecting to like this one as much as I did. It is a very low budget drama with only a few actors, but it is well done for what it is. There are no gimmicks here, just good old fashioned storytelling.
It is the story of a man who is dealing with a bit of a crisis in his life. At first, I kept waiting for something major to happen, but I realized pretty quickly that this was not that find of film. Instead, we get a glimpse into the real life of this man and those around him. It feels like a documentary at times, and its strength is in its simplicity.
The acting is pretty good for the most part, although there are moments when it is not so great. Some of the best acting actually comes from the two child actors, strangely enough. The film feels slow at moments, but overall it's really good and I liked it a lot. Some people will undoubtedly find it boring, so consider yourselves warned.
Missing Pieces (2012)
Great indie flick
I had no idea what this movie was about before I watched it, but it was recommended to me by a friend and then I started seeing it everywhere, so I figured I should give it a watch already. I was a little apprehensive about the two-hour running time (I don't mind long movies in general, but sometimes they just drag on and go WAY too slowly, especially indie dramas I have found that could have been edited down some). So I wasn't really expecting to watch the whole thing and figured I might get bored and turn it off after fifteen minutes or so. But fifteen minutes came and went and I completely forgot about that notion. I was enthralled. The characters fascinate and the actors do a great job. You'll recognize Mark Boone Junior from his many appearances in TV and film, but I was surprised to find that many of the other actors were first-timers. They just did such a great job that I felt like surely they had tons of experience. And the story is great too. I won't give too much of it away, but it's about a lonely guy who concocts a strange and elaborate plan to help two young people to fall in love. It's really unique and beautiful. I'm serious, this is such a great film and everyone should see it. The filmmakers have made it available to all for free, so you have no excuse.
Bronson (2008)
Better than expected
I was not expecting much from this film, but I didn't know that much about it. All I knew was what I'd seen on the cover and read on the back, and I wasn't too hopeful. But I was bored and had some time to kill and it was worth it. I just wanted a little background noise, but this was seriously intriguing. I couldn't look away.
The actor in the lead role does a phenomenal job. I will have to check out more of his work. He should win an award or something! And I read this was a true story, so it makes it all the more intriguing! I will have to look it up.
Trouble with the Curve (2012)
Wonderful return for Eastwood
I had previously read that Clint Eastwood had retired from acting following his wonderful performance in Gran Torino. Many were displeased, perhaps, especially after such a great last showing for him, but I was among those who felt it was a good thing. I always liked the man's acting, but after such a long and terrific career, I felt the old man had earned the right to hang it up if he wanted to.
So when I heard he was returning for this film, I thought it odd and a bit troubling even. Had they tricked a senile old man into doing something he didn't really want to do, against his better judgment? Why ruin a good career with a potentially mediocre baseball movie, especially after going out with a bang like Gran Torino. Better to just leave well enough alone.
And I heard the reviews. Not great. Just okay. I felt bad. I won't watch it, I said. I'll boycott. And I didn't watch it for many years, but finally I turned it on one day when I was bored and hungover and it was drizzling and gloomy outside. And boy, I'm glad I did. It made my day so much better and it really was great to see the old man back in action, doing what he does best. I'd like to see him back for many roles to come. Even if it is just another baseball movie.