Change Your Image
Khwaj
Reviews
Hokuto no Ken (1984)
Manga's best masterpiece of it's time!
For me Fist of the North Star will and always be the "BEST" that Manga's ever produced.
Violence and humor were here. I'm amazed to just realize that this was made in 1984 as I first viewed this back in 1993 assuming it that it came out then?
Brilliant artwork excellent voice-over characterization really help give this film a convincing approach as to how well you immerse yourself with both plot and character details.
Don't let this one pass you by, Fist of the North Star rules. . ..
Blade Runner (1982)
Slow but decent!
Blade Runner for me has to be one of the least films of Ridley Scott's that I watch.
Although the film may seem a ahead of it's time I was never feeling entirely satisfied considering the fact that the story took it's time before it got somewhere. Harrison Ford and Rutgar Hauer were the only decent performances I might add, since both Sean Young and Daryl Hannah's were fairly average.
Sometimes when I watch the film I get this strange feeling that it resembles more of Francis Ford Coppola's theme of slow scenarios before getting somewhere (i.e. Apocalypse Now). Whatever many may think, Blade Runner is not entirely that bad. Yes the film is considerably slow and boring since it takes it's sweet time with breathtaking visuals but don't let that slow you down, it's best to view this film more than once to appreciate it more than the first time round.
Frequency (2000)
Back to the Future with a heart!
Touching, sad and brilliant. I just can't believe how this movie received so many underrated reviews? Absolutely fantastic idea not to mention the touching moment with both father and son talking to each from different time spans (1999 - 1969) and eventually re-uniting under strange circumstances. Jim Caviezel and Dennis Quaid really do pour their hearts out playing their roles to perfection. I don't care what many may think, I'm just glad I added this to my collection of DVD's.
All I have to conclude is go get it, you won't be disappointed. 9/10
Jûbê ninpûchô (1993)
One of the best Manga film since "Fist Of The North Star".
With Manga films your always guarunteed the usual combination of ingredients mixed in one: violence, blood, crude language and of course sex.
The first film to catch my attention was Fist of the North Star, which was without a doubt the best since Akira. . . But Ninja Scroll would help change that.
One of the best kick-ass martial arts adventures to rival the likes of Crying Freeman. This for me is one anime that begs to be converted into a film. I just hope if they do, they can pull it off with just as much style as Cristoph Gans did for Crying Freeman (the same director who brought us "Brotherhood of the Wolf" fame).
Wonderful animation really helps brings this film to life with sinister voices, lovely music score and violent attacks. Trust me if you want all this look no further. Ninja Scroll really does draw "BLOOD".
Planet of the Apes (2001)
Eh, Oh Dear!
For me this has to be one of the most disappointing re-makes (or should I say re-imaginings I have ever seen. Why? well lets just start off by saying that Mark Wahlberg was a wrong choice for the lead as many would probably agree, with the acting somewhat blah.
It just didn't do it for me. Sorry but I'm sure Tim Burton could've done better as the movie as it's somewhat forgetful after watching.
I'm just glad I didn't add this one to my DVD collection. Huge elaborate and big budget, please it's starting to become annoying seeing so many Hollywood remakes becoming a thing of the past. . For me anyway.
Not impressed.
Wild Wild West (1999)
Avoid like the Plague!
Stupid, dumb and pathetic. I mean c'mon did anyone really expect to like such crap? What in the Hell was Will Smith thinking of to star in such an insult?
Save every penny you've got and avoid like the plague.
Awful, awful waste of CRAP or should I say craptacular.
Jungle Fever (1991)
A sad, haunting and electrifying film that should be a wake up call for those wishing to end RACISM!
The first time I watched Jungle Fever, it got me thinking about the views of many people warring with each other over the difference of color and why many families maintain their own cultures rather than integrating as one. .. . I think not!
For me it demonstrates that Spike Lee was portraying a very cynical and depressing outlook of two people from different backgrounds coming together with events increasing from bad to worse and many minorities choosing to reject such a matter rather than accepting a change.
Performances were a real turn out for me in this one. Okay I know it might sound tiresome considering the cameo appearances that Spike Lee contributes to the film's well established casting credibility, but I have to say the film belongs to both Wesley Snipes and the unavoidable Samuel L. Jackson (can't wait to see him in Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones). Playing two brothers, one of whom is a young successful designer who's relationship with Italian American assistant Annabella Sciorra causes the main issue of the film's debate. And the other an older sibling who's life revolves around drug taking and stealing.
The problem for me to take in to account is that many agree that inter-racial relationships cause bitter arguments and distrust between certain race cultures. Although it can be lightened up with a sense of humor it did leave a sour taste as to whether people will eventually change their point of views towards integrating than separating?
I'm just happy to know that many stars such as Snipes, Jackson and Halle Berry (yes that's right she plays a drug addict alongside cool man Jackson), have managed to sustain such a highly demanding careers for the many roles given to them then and now. I just hope that many other directors can help turn out the same success for their stars as much Spike Lee did for his.
Queen of the Damned (2002)
Stylish & Impressive but short on Aaliyah's appearance!
I watched this last week not expecting anything in the least, but was stylish and cool I might add.
It was an interesting to see that this made it to cinema considering Aaliyah's unfortunate and untimely death as this was being slated more for a straight-to-video release.
Although I'm not really an Anne Rice reader, I'm glad to see another follow-up from the star studded "Interview with the Vampire". I Still can't understand why so many over rate that garbage?
Stuart Townsend was pretty slick as the vampire Lestat, so much that he resembles Brandon Lee's look from The Crow. It's not surprising to learn as to why this movie was given a lukewarm response from the critics as to a rather weak story and thin plot. However it was also nice to see that many took notice of Aaliyah's performance as this not doubt helped provide more publicity and success received. Though I'm a fan of vampires I was annoyed that it was only granted a "15" rating in the U.K. as I'm sure it would've been more gorier.
It was also nice to see French actor Vincent Perez playing another dark Gothic role as Lestat's vampire maker since his role in The Crow: City of Angels (no way better than the original). And the beautiful Swedish actress Lena Olin and newcomer Marguerite Moreau for their supportive performances. One of the most beautifully crafted scenes that really deserves a thumbs up is the "concert confrontation" involving Stuart Townsend and Vincent Perez and a large group of angry vampires battling it out on center stage in front of a large crowd of fans. That rocks.
Not a bad movie at all. I just hope the DVD comes out with extras, outtakes, deleted scenes and maybe something special for any Aaliyah fans out there? (I know I'm one).
Stigmata (1999)
Dark, Gothic, gruesome but at the same time brilliant!
Stigmata might have not been so well praised as expected, but was still worth the viewing pleasure. All performances are a praise, especially to leads Gabriel Byrne and Patricia Arquette.
The movie did help bring a lot into question in terms of the religious controversy it caused to some about truth and dare?
It almost seems convincing to a stage that you begin to examine the moral standards of the Christian belief, that many would find objective or blasphemy. . . .? For example one scene that deals with the complexity of faith is the scene between Byrne and Rade Serbedzija's character Marion Petrocelli who provides a vital debate about the "true" Church of Jesus Christ. This scene alone invites deep insight for those curious enough to believe if such a thing is true and maybe to read into?
I know this might sound tiresome but the movie reminded me of something that was a cross/between an Argento flick (notice the dark color bleaching removal of the film) and an MTV style music video.
Mind you the film was not without it's rather visceral bloody scenes with Patricia Arquette receiving the five brutal and bloody stigamtic wounds to the wrists, feet, head and so forth.
Jonathan Pryce delivers a really chilling performance as the Cardinal with dark secret he struggles to keep away.
Brilliant film though for the performances, although the story maybe slightly slow by no means let that slow you down from watching this.
Resident Evil (2002)
Bring on "RESIDENT EVIL 2"
I just finished watching this movie and all I have to say is bring on the sequel. . .
No offence whatsoever to Paul Anderson, but I'm hoping the next installment gets passed on to someone like David Fincher. After all this is same man who brought films like The Game, Fight Club, Alien 3, Se7en and the latest Jodie Foster feature "The Panic Room". With the added bonus of non-stop thrills and suspense.
Although the movie stayed faithful to the video game I was hoping for greater blood and gore afloat, but I suppose were just going to have to remain with this one till 2 comes around.
The only disappointment I had with the film was that Jennifer Love Hewitt (originally casted) left the project two years ago not to mention legendary "Night of the Living Dead" director George A. Romero as this would've restored his credibility status.
Milla Jovovich though was really a sight to behold, a bit dumb though with scenes of breaking zombie's necks and fly kicking mutated dogs and a dose of martial arts crap.
One thing that impressed me about the movie was the similarities it had to films like Aliens, Demons and of course The Living Dead. Lets just hope that part 2 can dish more with David Fincher at the helm, with more frights and Jumps.
Just bring it on!
Vanilla Sky (2001)
Confusing, mindbending did I miss something?
I no idea what I was leading myself into when I first took a glimpse of Vanilla Sky?
I mean sure it was another Tom Cruise flick re-uniting with 'Jerry Maguire' favorite Cameron Crowe and throwing in the likes of Penelope Cruz, Jason Lee, Kurt Russel and the un-avoidable Cameron Diaz but there was something about this film I didn't quite catch. . . .?
To begin with I heard it was a remake of a Spanish film "Open your Eyes" and secondly the story was not was it was meant to be then I realized that maybe it wasn't such a good idea?
The confusing aspect about the story was Tom Cruise's character' a successful millionaire who's claimed everything only one could ever dream of and then meeting the girl of his dreams (real-life love interest Penelope Cruz).
The story then begins to take a somewhat "abstract" turning point when past girlfriend Cameron Diaz turns up taking our lead for a ride only to end up committing suicide by driving off a bridge. All in the name of love I might add.
What you end up experiencing is a series flashbacks of present day events and wonderful vivid dream like sequences. Which sends a host of "should I say" unanswered questions.
For me this film reminded more of a Dario Argento formula: Stylish camera work and set design not to mention awkward scenario.
Although this is my first time seeing a virtual remake it's not surprising in the least how some of these big time directors dish out bucket loads of cash on sprucing up old cuts with style and vision. The one image that many will reflect upon is the Times Square scenario, in which Tom Crusie gets out his car and begins to run through an isolated environment (note: Cameron Crowe had closed off Times Square for an hour just capture this one beautiful scene).
All in all not bad, but when watching this film it began to remind me of other mindbending films that had me on the rebound (Total Recall, Twelve Monkeys and Fight Club).
With alot of style but little appreciation towards story, I'd probably have to say that this is a slight let down. The film too began to suffer from an identity crises. Whatever you may think I couldn't but feel robbed as your never left feeling satisfied as to whether he was dreaming or not?
Stylish but not impressive. 7/10
American History X (1998)
A major "WAKE UP CALL" to the United States & abroad!
Powerful, gripping, disturbing and extremely valuable to watch.
This movie had it all and yes Edward Norton should, repeat SHOULD have won an award for this film as this most certainly gave him the recognition he so rightfully deserves. Kudos to Beverly D' Angelo and Edward Furlong (John Conner from Terminator 2) as the struggling mother and brother trying to remain as a family despite the horrific turn of events that plague the normal life once given.
I will not give a single piece of information away about this film, but one thing's assured, it'll haunt you serverly after the film final credits.
Anyone not talking to a family relation should really take notice and watch this in isolation. Please let there not be racism and violence but peace. I hope this film will be lesson for many to learn and value for the years to come.
Jason X (2001)
A state-of-the-art Jason in space. . . .PLEASE!
As far back as I coud remember Friday the 13th was at it's major peak when horror flicks were ruling movie waves, but now it seems people can't seem to get enough of this particular franchise.
For me the originals can and WILL NEVER be topped no matter how good a script, budget, VFX and acting goes. Why on earth don't these pathetic stupid ass Fat-Cat producers call it a day? My only assumption as to why this maybe is because of the DVD craze that's seeming to sweep the everyday market. Let's be realistic although I know I'm interviewing, horror films are too making a major comeback on this market since alot of over-looked materials are being given a spruced up transfer. Example to this are the many films released by Anchor Bay entertainment that can't seem to stop with their elaborate collection of horror features. And impressive box-sets (i.e. Nightmare on Em Street collection and The Beyond). Anyway back to the review.
Okay this movie opens up in the "21st Century", with David Cronnenberg making a short appearance only to be (oh sorry can't give away).
Nice chicks I must admit as this film had more than just a hand full to deal with (ain't Lexa Doig a Hot-Dog in this?)
It was also good seeing Kane Hodder reprising his role as the infamous Jason with some kick ass bio upgrade to his figure and mask. However what compelled me to watch this stupid piece of crap junk was it's technical achievements considering that this too was shot on digital beating out Attack of the Clones as the first film to be released digitally.
All in all not bad but take several things to take into account incase you've been following the Friday series avidly: Slashings, stupid Jason walks, dumb acting, flat rate dialogue, sex and the classic "chi chi cha cha" sound.
For me it was so s**t it's good how ironic don't you think? 6/10
American Psycho (2000)
A first rate "NUT JOB" movie!
A remember watching this movie back in Easter 2000 with a friend and his wife. . .And let me tell you what a film it was!
Thank God that this role was passed in good faith to Christian Bale and not to the "overrated" Leonardo Di Caprio as it's hard to imagine him in a role like this. What made this film also rewarding to watch was the fact that it was set in the 80's with alot of the music from acts like New order Phil Collins and Chris De Burgh, helping to symbolize the feel to that "special" decade.
What's more interesting is the lead character's observation through narration towards perfectionism from one's own personality to others (i.e. check out the scene featuring the buisness cards).
All other supporting performances from the likes of Willem Dafoe, Chloe Sevigny and Jerad Leto are thumbs up. It's interesting to know that the film presented a combination of both the old and new generation of acting talents. For example who could avoid Willem Dafoe, he really is one hell of an amazing talent to be reckoned with. Given any role he's always learnt to play it to the fullest tick (i.e. Wild at Heart, Mississipi Burning and eXistenZ).
The only thing that I left slightly baffled with was whether the lead character Patrick Bateman really did commit those murders or were just a figment of his imagination?
Whatever the truth, the film really does stand out, might not go down as a classic but a film worth viewing.
Recommended.
Soul Man (1986)
On the level of John Hughes comedies!
I remember watching Soul Man about twelve years ago when it was first aired on TV. Crazy, hilarious, sarcastic, emotional; what the hell I could go on forever describing this film.
This is the only film besides "The Outsiders" that C. Thomas Howell played a dual role of himself and a black student impersona. Okay I can agree with some comments that movie began to over step it's bounderies with the way African American culture was dealt with, but at the smae time I felt that it was stabalized with the humour adding that extra touch rather than people taking it more "Politically correct" way.
James Earl Jones and Rae Dawn Chong both did fabulous jobs as there acting really help give their characters' some edge that made it somewhat convincing.
Overall a brilliant film. If you can try to avoid the fact that it might be cliched of dealing with racial differences in a light hearted manner. Remember this is a comedy and not something to take "SERIOUSLY".
Another quality film from the 80's to add to the hitlist.
Devil May Cry (2001)
Please hurry with the movie!
It seems Hollywood can't avoid the craze with adapting video games into feature length films with kick ass effects involved. . .
Okay so we've been given films like Mortal Kombat 1 & 2 and Resident Evil are strong justifications with comic books already firmly establishing close ties with dominating the big screen (i.e. Blade, X-Men, The Crow, Spiderman and Matrix).
The game is more than what any typical game playing die-hard fan could wish for: stunning graphics, killer moves and one beautiful gorgeous looking babe named Trish. But then again it's only a game or is it?
Bring on the movie, that's all I'm concerned with right now. Just hope someone like Mark Dacascos could be considered for the lead role as the character Dante.
For the meantime anyone a fan of Resident Evil will not be dissapointed at all as this is "must-own" video game of the millennium.
"Lets Rock Baby" - Dante 10/10
The Matrix (1999)
Tap in, get lost - The Matrix has you!
Matrix is doing it for it for the millennium as what T2 - Judgement Day did in for the 90's.
First rate effects, I can honestly say that this is the only film strong enough to rival T2. "James Cameron eat your heart out. You never saw this one coming".
I first went to the cinema and was caught completely off-guard in terms of what to expect. . . Mind - blowing is all I have to say.
Load up Matrix 2 tank.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Lock "N" Load for the Ultimate Sci-fi extravaganza!
This was truly the in initial "State-of-the-Art" entertainment from it's initial opening in 1991 onwards, say no more.
This was the initial "Matrix" considering the CGI effects used to a new dimension until The Matrix proceeded to take VFX to the beyond.
Chases, explosions, morphing, gun battles, style this had it all. I've lived to regret the fact this was one major classic (besides Gladiator) that I didn't get to see on the big screen. Even to this day I still crave to wish to see it on the big screen as it'll be something rewarding to savour the experience alone.
By far The best Arnie film since PREDATOR and the original TERMINATOR.
For any fan the DVD also is a major must-own. . .Not just the film alone, but an army of features make this a DVD to be reckoned with and inconceivable for anyone not owning it
WARNING: The only DVD copy worth purchasing is The Ultimate Edition -
Region 1 as it's a dual layered disc. Avoid Region 2 as you'll probably be deprived of features as you're mostly guaranteed better standards
with U.S releases.
Unmissable. 10/10
Scream (1996)
Rewarding first time round!
I remember watching SCREAM back in '97 when it was released theatrically in the U.K.
What an impressive opening I might add, the only problem was realizing where it was ripped off from (i.e "When A Stranger Calls").
I will admit that I watched Scream time after time, But for me I feel it has somewhat gone downhill considering the HUGE media publicity surrounding it resulting in a further two sequels being spawned.
I'm glad to see how Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson's creative formula worked really well for this flick not to mention that this really helped rejuvenate the horror genre again since there began to be a decline in that particular field.
The only problem now is with a large majority of audiences associating this film whenever horror is mentioned as it's getting rather boring.
It's interesting to know that films like The Beyond and so many other forgotten classic horror flicks are now beginning to get the recognition they deserve. So in a strange way Scream is partially to thank.
Long zai jiang hu (1986)
When will they stop dubbing?
This was another interesting but not very exciting film. For me I was rather in-between about liking and disliking it.
To begin with it was nice seeing this as one of the very few not to mention early Brandon Lee films. At first this struck me more as a US production, considering that it was officialy released in the UK around 1993 (the same year he tragically died on the set of "The Crow").
I got my chance to watch this back in 2001. The thing that made me feel emotional after watching the film was wishing he'd still been alive to make other quality films. For me The Crow is still one film that stands out a brilliant achievement, it's not surprising to learn that there would've been so many promising role for him in the pipeline.
My only disapointment with Legacy of Rage was the fact that not much martial arts was demonstrated despite the showdown with "Enter the Dragon" co-star and Bruce Lee student Bolo Yeung. You couldn't help but feel slightly put off considering the fight didn't seem to last that long since things were more geared towards gun battles. But to top it off the dubbing was real annoyance as it's becoming both lame and outdated with most of these actor's not being able to speak their native languages, what a crock of s**t.
Overall not a bad film at all, but it's high time that voice dubbing becomes a thing of the past?
Weakest Link (2000)
A ruthless show with a cut-throat edge!
Who would've thought that Anne Robinson would become a sight to be reckoned with on both sides of the atlantic?
It's not surprising to know why the " The Weakest Link" became such a show that had more than just a few average heads turning in it's direction.
This is more than just a typical game show to begin with. . .Gone are the days when pathetic game shows featuring annoying fake charmed contestants would congratulate one another for beating the best one out. This one really bites the dust!
Anne Robinson has become one HELL of a lean mean killing machine with her brute-force cutthroat comments towards her contestants, narrowing it down to more of a black and white outlook.
It's even amazing to learn that this is not of those "go lucky game shows" where everyone leaves satisfied, but more realistic with the way everyone responds to winning and losing.
This truly is a GAME for the new Millenium. ROCK ON Anne Robinson, you are the strongest link.
Blow (2001)
A deeply moving story that should not be avoided!
I watched this movie in July of last year and was left feeling rather depressed, in terms of of the way the story was told. I might sound far fetched, but Johnny truly Depp should deserve an Oscar for his performance as the tragic George Jung.
For me this was the only film that everyone played their roles to perfection. Hats off to Ray Liota as the father of George Jung, his charismatic portrayal alongside Johnny Depp could really be felt with alot of heart and emotion considering the ups and downs his son gets involved in. Infact if you see 'Donnie Brasco', it's more the same considering his relationship with Al Pacino's character.
I still can't understand why so many critics didn't seem to like it very much, not that I didn't of course. Problem with films is that maybe one should not try to expect too much, but rather appreciate it's vision even if might not be 100% accurate. Let's face film like Titanic weren't exactly great since there quite a few loose ends involved not mention sources misinterpreted.
Penelope Cruz was a real treat to watch. Constant crack ups with her character made her one of the most memorable with humor and sarcasm constantly being dished out.
It's just a real shame too with Ted Demme's untimely death just before the end of he year, since this was one of the very few movies that began to shine through.
Although I loved the movie I would only recommend watching once since it's a rather upsetting to see where many of the end up. You almost feel that you want try and help the characters from meeting a "fate worse than death" scenario.
Wonderful.
Big Trouble in Little China (1986)
Just keep them coming!
YES, YES YES!
This is another to add to the 80's Hit list. Comedy, Horror, action, suspense, romance and Kurt Russel. This is far more than anyone could ever hope for.
John Carpenter has really outdone himself with this "tour-de-force" flick. Action packed with some slick ass wise-cracking dialogue, that's said, I instantly rushed out to buy the DVD double pack. For me this was Crouching Tiger meets Ghostbusters. It would've been nice though with a follow up, but then again a bad idea as it would have started to lose it's balance becoming somewhat sloppy (especially since all the major bad guys were killed anyway.
Once again a true gem to remembered for good. 10/10
WarGames (1983)
Bring back the 80's. . .PLEASE!
This for me is and will always be one of my many favorite 80's flicks ever. Watching it when I was young made me want everything Matthew Broderick's character had: Nice house, great computer set-up and computer "nerd" connections.
Okay the movie might look dated now not to mention a little far fetched with a young teenager hacking into the miltary system, but so what at least it doesn't throw itself overboard like so many other films have in recent times (i.e. Independence Day, sorry if that's a dumb comparison).
Interesting to also know that this was also voted "IMDB movie of the day" considering that it was shown only recently on TV (with the profanity edited though. . . Bummer).
Great performances from leads Broderick and Sheedy, this films like many others demonstrates strongly why the "Brat-pack" era was huge back in the 1980's.
I'm still happy to know that this is still one of the many films people herald as timeless classic, with many others in the pipeline too.
Just keep bringing them back.
Blade II (2002)
Good, but doesn't hit the mark as much as it's predecessor.
After reading a number of user comments on Blade II, I was hoping to be surprised. . .I was, but it didn't impress me as much as I thought.
A slightly lousy opening to begin with, then cuts straight to the action. For me this seemed a little too fast and over elaborate. I got the impression that it was trying a little too hard to over-top the orginals' opening (but I maybe wrong for saying this).
Wesley Snipes is impressive as always as the mighty Blade. It was also nice to see the return of Kris Kristofferson's character of 'Whistler' as well. A huge bonus also seeing Danny John Jules (aka Cat from the BBC comedy "Red Dwarf"), pulling some stylish martial arts.
The only thing more annoying than a weak plot was that of the visual effects. Since The Matrix "Bullet-Time" sequence, most films seem to have enjoyed the idea of jumping the bandwagon with one too many "slow-mo" scenarios that now seem to over-populate itself with every film seen (i.e Crouching Tiger, Romeo must Die, X-Men and The One).
Overall, not a bad film at all, I just hope they can top it off with another final outing. I mean c'mon by the third installment things usually come to a close don't they?
Check it out NOW! 7/10