mdm-11's Reviews

Die Post geht ab (1962)

3/10

Disappointing Heinz Erhardt formula rom-com

13 April 2024

The usual suspects in yet another predictable musical comedy about a Southern Holiday with even more predictable complications. Unlike other typical such low-budget Wirtschaftswunder films starring Germany's #1 Comic of his time, this one is likely the one with the most shallow and disappointing plot.

Vivi Bach does her obligatory little song, Heinz Erhard cracks a few forgettable one-liners, Chris "Mr. Pumpernickel" Howland is doing another imitation of himself, and the also-rans are along for the bumpy ride to (seemingly) nowhere. If the story of a vacation trip to Italy, won in a cheesy talent contest, and organized by a troupe of happy-go-lucky (and notoriously broke) young musicians, won't hold your attention, then perhaps the nauseatingly repetitive instrumental tune of "Happy Jose" will do the trick?

The 2 extra stars (if 1 is the lowest rating) are for the vibrant colors and the familiar faces of Germany's Golden Age of Entertainment. Sorry, but other than that, there is nothing positive to say about this movie. My suggestion: Skip this silly yarn and save your time for something, ANYTHING, else to watch!

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Die Grenze (2021)

8/10

Can fair taxation bring peace and prosperity to all of humankind?

6 April 2024

Although this film has clearly been produced on a shoe-string budget, it nonetheless offers a hopeful look into the future. Using the example of two large grocery chains who are seeking an unethical fusion, to create a monopoly over national food supply, a long-time accountant at the Tax Office is sounding the alarm about corporate tax cheats. Ignored by her superiors, and eventually fired for rocking the boat, anger turns to action. With her video message going viral, an eager audience for her message is growing, as is the anger of a CEO who sees his schemes to maintain and grow his own wealth and power threatened.

The main character resembles a young Chancellor Angela Merkel in appearance and mannerisms. She is also extremely intelligent, well spoken and sharp, while at times coming across as almost child-like and vulnerable. Don't underestimate this woman who is determined to change the world for the better! There was no Hollywood budget, and subsequently very limited production values, yet this quiet little film is well worth your time, and it is sure to leave you uplifted.

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Crisis in Six Scenes (2016)

9/10

As though Woody Allen, Mel Brooks and Larry David had collaborated

2 February 2024

As a fan of Woody Allen's work, I was thrilled to see that he hasn't lost his flair for the absurd. Set in Vietnam Era New York, True to his favorite screen persona, Allen plays the neurotic yet loveable curmudgeon, with the added cherry on the cake in form of a devoted wife, who happens to be ...wait for it...a therapist. Need more zany comedy material? How about Miley Cyrus as a revolutionary who joined the Black Panther Movement to fight "the man", to force social change by any means necessary. Did I mention that she's just busted out of prison, causing a state-wide (wo)man hunt?

There is a brilliant supporting cast, consisting mainly of a bunch old bitties who hold regular book club meetings, only to instantly feel drawn to Cyrus' preaching about active opposition to the Vietnam War, determined to "join the cause". Look for a hilarious scene with 2 stereotypical repairmen who are briefly held at gun point by the well meaning bunch of nervous seniors. Another nice surprise is the part played by a future "Mrs. Meisel" (perhaps chosen for the hugely successful series on the strength of her performance here). A side-plot of an unlikely love-triangle between "the young ones" is sure to have the audience pick sides.

If you like Woody Allen, you are sure to enjoy this bite-size set of one-liners and quick-witted dialog. It's a tour-de-force by one of the living legends of comedy writing.

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Good Grief (IV) (2023)

8/10

Without love, we're only living an imitation of life

6 January 2024

The unconditional support of his two best friends allow Mark to cope with the sudden loss of his husband. A full year of grieving ends with a shocking revelation: The Dearly Departed had been "exploring relations" with someone else. How was this possible, when the two by all accounts had this perfect marriage?

Most of the cast consists of a Bohemian clique of very artistic, intellectual 30-somethings. The story takes considerable time to endear the characters, as they all come across as self-centered, irresponsible dreamers. It is only during the "home stretch" that the phrase "getting your s*it together" is mentioned repeatedly, and various characters finally are heeding that suggestion.

This film is all about finding someone to love who loves you back. Daniel Levi is the author and star, using several of his signature situations fans may recognize from the recent, phenomenally popular Emmy-sweeping TV series. Although THIS is nowhere near the genius of "Shitts Creek", it is a pleasant, if somewhat over-melancholic treatment of the lingering pain left by the loss of a soulmate.

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Hacks (2021– )

10/10

She's not gonna take it....ANYMORE!

9 December 2023

Expecting lighthearted entertainment, I was very pleasantly surprised to find a blend of comedy, drama and countless visual gags, turning my viewing experience into sheer delight. Jean Smart's leading role as Vegas Superstar Deborah Vance is a composite of Joan Rivers and Roseanne Barr, both pioneers in the gritty world of stand-up comedy, which has always been and still is a "boys club". Ms. Vance's rocky road to success was paved with misogyny, unfairness and (sexual) harassment, perhaps even assault. Such silent suffering of women seems unbelievable to Vance's newly hired joke-writer Ava (played by Hannah Einbinder). To Ava, her boss appears mean and work-obsessed. Can't Deborah Vance ever "just chill" and take it easy?

An aging (female) stand-up comic has to fight for survival, being told that she's no longer "fresh", not appealing to a younger audience. That may be thinly veiled agism, or perhaps a hint at the "material" that still tells funny stories from the 1970s, which makes the seniors laugh, but sometimes falls flat with the "kids". Can a fresh perspective from a "gen z girl" save the washed up act of an old hack?

I've only (binge) watched season 1 thus far, but I would never bet against a class act like Deborah Vance! I can recommend this series without reservations. It's one of the finest comedies out there today. If you're gonna pick ONE series to watch in the blinding jungle of shows offered, make it THIS ONE! It's THAT good!

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The Handmaid's Tale (2017– )

9/10

This "Godly society" has no redeeming "up-side"

6 September 2023

I've just finished (binge) watching season 4. From the start, the story of a dystopian future in "North America", plagued by religious zealots with sadistic personality disorder is gut wrenchingly hard to watch, yet the viewer can't help but continue. The heroes (mostly females) refuse to be broken in spirit, forming alliances to fight the evil system, never abandoning hope for victory.

My reason for withholding the 10th star for a perfect rating is a clear contradiction no one seems to be addressing at all: The "necessity" for this whole "child bearing machine" is a declining birth rate, yet people are executed for the most ridiculous infractions. If children are scarce and precious things, why are adults so expendable? It seems that for each new child born, 10 adults are "hanged on the wall" like wet clothing on a line to dry. How (in God's Name) does THAT help stave off the fear of a shrinking population?

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Parasite (2019)

10/10

On all social levels, human beings deserve equal respect

6 May 2023

A family of 4 adults, all living in the same dingy basement apartment, are struggling to survive. Parents and young adult son and daughter, accepting all available, low paying jobs, putting up with indignities, exploitation and starvation wages. Life just isn't fair. When through an unexpected gift of a mysterious rock, the family's fortune begins to change for the better, there is a brief period of joy. By a series of clever deceptions, first the son, then each of the other family members gain employment with an upper class family. Soon feelings of guilt overcome them. Is their obvious fraud hurting others? How can anyone begrudge them their sudden good fortune? Is it all part of a higher plan?

This film is a delightful tour de force of not only the story and cast, but a powerful psychological journey as seen through the eyes of one young man, who is seeking meaning in his life; the opportunity to make his family proud, to accomplish great things. In the context of the story, it is a most selfless, loving heart, seeking a plan to help those less fortunate. This is a film filled with magic and warmth. There are very, very few films out there, with a message of optimism and reflection as powerful as in "Parasite". Having seen thousands of films in my life, this one receives a rare 10/10, and my highest recommendation. Don't let the sub-titles (or French Dub) scare you. You are definitely going to like this picture!

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Tatort: Liebeshunger (2007)

Season 1, Episode 658

7/10

Without love we're only living an imitation of life

23 February 2023

Only after her lifeless body is discovered, the secret double life of a middle-aged wife and mother begins to shed light on a variety of social issues. The investigating Hauptkommissar immediately recognizes the homicide victim as the woman with whom he had had an affair years earlier. She had chosen her family over what could have been mutual true love. Was it merely out of financial desperation that she turned to prostitution, or was it because her cold and bitter, self-absorbed husband was incapable of any warmth or affection? Several "customers" are persons of interest.

So many men in search for affection or fulfillment seek to find it in exchange for money, while some "Johns" have sincere feelings. And do not women also deserve happiness with someone special? The general subject of prostitution is a main theme of this episode, viewing the matter in a sympathetic way from different angles. After all, what is life without love? Not everyone is so fortunate to find the love for life; and without someone special, what is life but an imitation?

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Comin' at Ya! (1981)

5/10

Feature length fun-house visit - That's all, folks!

28 January 2023

This special-effects Spaghetti Western is focused on the audience, and how to deliver as many shock & awe moments as could possibly be shoved into the story-free script. It's like watching the Rocky Horror Picture Show, with the big difference that The Rocky Horror Picture Show has a dynamite story, and many other reasons why it will always be a 10 Star cult classic. It's unlikely that anyone would want to have repeated viewings of this lackluster wanna-be-Western.

There are only so many shot guns shoved in your face, snakes rattling at you or drunken saloon patrons tumbling your way, before the formula wears off. If you've never experienced a 3-D movie, and this could be your only chance to check it off your bucket list, by all means, go for it. I've been there, done that back in 1981. Maybe I'll dig up one of the 1950s Classics in 3-D, but once was enough for this one.

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Kaleidoscope (2023)

3/10

Better Call Saul, because this disappointing "heist drama" needs a good lawyer!

24 January 2023

As a fan of the sophisticated crime drama genre, I was drawn to "Kaleidoscope" by the lead character, whom I admired from his unique and over-powering presence in the Cult Classic "Breaking Bad", and the even more superb "Better Call Saul!" - To say I was disappointed by this latest venture is an understatement.

The opening gives us a two-man safe-crackers scene reminiscent of the 1960s. We've seen this cliche many times, with minimal attempts at originality. More cliches follow in short succession: A loving wife and precocious young daughter, money troubles. I don't even need to go on with the tired old road this is taking. Then comes a real turn-off: Blatant and ugly racism, the caliber of which hasn't been seen since the vile hate endured by Halle Berry in her Oscar-Winning performance in "Monsters' Ball". NO! In the year 2023 there simply is no excuse to portray a classy Country Club as a place where THIS is viewed as normal or even remotely acceptable. When fiction is lowered to this level of "button pushing", we are entering the realms of fantasy or sci-fi.

I'm so sorry to see an incredibly gifted actor to "graduate" from 2 Instant Classics to something so beneath both him and his audience. I'm deeply disappointed and stopped watching after only the first episode.

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Tatort: Du bleibst hier (2023)

Season 1, Episode 1,222

9/10

Less Crime, more Drama: Life is unfair, and death comes to us all

22 January 2023

Ever since Kommissar Faber's long-time partner and secret object of his affection Kommissar Boenisch was killed in the line of duty, Faber has been "on medical leave" from his police work due his deep depression/prolonged mourning. Nonetheless Faber refuses to idly stand by as his estranged elderly father becomes a person of interest in the disappearance (and suspected murder of) a ruthless and shady real estate tycoon. He will aid the investigation.

This Tatort episode is more of a continuation of the drama in the dysfunctional family lives of the regular cast members. Of course, the long time team leader Boenisch (with her own troubled personal life) recently died, leaving everyone emotionally scarred.

Somehow the entire team has extreme private issues to juggle, while doing their work as detectives. There's a junkie/jailbird wife/mother, a mother with a dark domestic terrorist past, a father with dementia; which one of those "situations" is an easy cross to bear? When life throws you that kind of smorgesboard of unfairness, pain and suffering, a murder case that needs solving suddenly becomes a side-plot rather than the center of the story.

If you're looking for a formula "whodunit", then this episode may not be for you. If you are (like me) a lifelong Tatort fanatic, you will watch this double dose of "back story" to the Dortmund Team, and you will be glad you did! Look for the heartwarming scenes in the hair dresser salon with the "old bitties" talking about the good ol' days, and how everybody in the neighborhood was pulling together during troubled times. Priceless! In my book, it's one of the very best Tatort episodes!

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A Christmas Karen (2022)

8/10

REALLY Updated Dickens' Classic, pure Christmas Fun!

3 December 2022

Warning: Spoilers

Fresh off the presses: Karen gets her own Christmas Special! Included in the fun are all known things a Karen would say, and even some that seem new (but fitting). Not only is the Classic Christmas Carol story followed faithfully, but many pop culture moments are thrown in as a bonus.

This Karen started out mean as can be, asking for the manager, offending every known minority, picking fights with cashiers, baristas and just about anyone she encounters (and your little dog too!). Enter the three Christmas Ghosts with their magical intervention, and a brand new Karen arrives just in time for Christmas Morning!

If you're looking for a very timely Christmas Carol, look no further and enjoy this updated version of Charles Dickens' Masterpiece!

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Tatort: Damian (2018)

Season 1, Episode 1,075

9/10

When a little voice takes over your life...

23 November 2022

This Tatort episode is an extremely clever psycho-drama with multiple tangents eventually leading to a spellbinding conclusion. The opening scene of a burning cabin in the woods is initially not relevant, as that side-plot doesn't come back into focus until the ending. Instead the story is focused on a double murder that shows eerie similarities to another unsolved case many years in the past. Only then another main plot line revolves around a troubled university student, who is clearly overwhelmed with his studies. A middle-aged, lonely fettishist weirdo is another person of interest. The intertwining of investigations has rarely been so brilliantly accomplished as in this episode.

Several unique characters are introduced. The established female Kommissar is joined by an experienced new replacement, who is substituting for the old partner, after that one had a mysterious skiing accident. The new Kommissar sometimes appears abrupt and impatient, yet very capable. A no-nonsense female superior and her assistant, a quirky "librarian-type", are also refreshing, as their personalities are very unique and thereby distinguishable from all the other different Tatort teams' members. Great casting all around!

The story told (aside from the murder mystery) is quite disturbing, but timely. Young people today more than ever are experiencing pressure to perform and compete to a point that it can cause a complete mental breakdown. The episode also hinted at white supremacy/nationalism gang activity. It may be up to family, friends, and even outsiders to intervene. This is a far above average episode in Germany's legendary series. Highly recommended!

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Tatort: Roomservice (2015)

Season 1, Episode 948

9/10

The Arc of Justice (for Women's Equality) Bends Slowly

2 November 2022

The death of a hotel maid leads to many unforeseen discoveries. Lena Odenthal investigates while several characters are not exactly forthcoming about their own involvement. The wife (and attorney) of a high ranking politician (who is also a person of interest), seems obsessed with advancing women's rights in the work place. The theme of women's rights is woven through the entire episode. The meticulous investigation which is climaxed by a long sequence, is outstanding, a definite highlight, rarely done this well in most other Tatort episodes.

Without giving specifics, the cliche ending (of the suspect) is the only thing disappointing me again. This is otherwise a superior Tatort episode, highly recommended.

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Kleo (2022– )

6/10

Pippi Longstocking meets Jason Bourne

2 September 2022

Warning: Spoilers

As someone who has lived his coming of age years during the 1980s in the city of Berlin, I was instantly fascinated by the authentic sets, fashions and general "feeling" of what it was like to experience the final moments of the ever-present Cold War. Those parts were captured very realistically. High marks for that part of the production values. The opening episode is action packed and sets up the main theme: Our protagonist Kleo, a young "special forced agent" for the STASI (Secret Police) wants to know why she has apparently been "sold out" by her peers and left to rot in jail, just as she had completed another one of many successful missions (assassinations). After many months behind bars, Kleo is suddenly released, along with all other political prisoners, because the "Berlin Wall" has fallen, and the old GDR is no more.

Exciting introduction. The story quickly takes outrageously far fetched tangents. Several loopy supporting characters show up with their strange personalities and matching actions. A self-proclaimed "alien from another planet", who squats in one of many suddenly abandoned East German apartments is determined to open his own Techno-Disco. Another weirdo is Kleo's peer, a fellow graduate from the "special training school", who is holding a grudge for never quite matching Kleo's performance record. Kleo's Grandfather is a "higher up" in the Communist Party and a devout believer in the cause, to the point of having his own daughter, and eventually even Kleo arrested.

Without giving away more details, I do need to note that the constant and often completely gratuitous violence becomes tiresome; the fact that there never seems to be any consequences (or even acknowledgement) of arbitrary killings of human beings is unappealing. The many forced little jokes predicating and following a killing are almost cartoonish. "May I please kill just one more? Pretty please?" - Sorry, not funny! I also find it quite incredible, how this moderately attractive Kleo is able to instantly seduce any young man she decides to "toy with". That's not realistic. We are also made to believe how brilliant these "secret agents" are, then find that each and every one of them is constantly and repeatedly tricked and deceived by everyone else. As a fan of this genre and of movies in general, I'm just not buying it. There are also several scenes with prolonged partial nudity without logic or even dialog, adding nothing to the plot. Why was that necessary?

My favorite moment comes near the end, when "Aunt Margot" examines her precious suitcase. It's an "inside joke" that almost all Germans of my age will appreciate. - I binge-watched "Kleo". I was entertained, but not "thrilled" with this series. The "pay off" takes away some of the unpleasant taste, making the final product worthwhile.

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Tatort: Der feine Geist (2021)

Season 1, Episode 1,151

7/10

Ghosts, magic, murder and the meaning of life

22 May 2021

This Tatort episode has the Weimar Team working a case involving multiple victims of robbery, murder and other unpleasant forms of physical and emotional suffering.

The chief of the team early on declares his imminent retirement, and his plans to announce his successor shortly. Lupo, the least likely candidate to become the new team leader, seriously and gleefully entertains the idea of being the one to be picked by the departing boss. The likable Lupo with his goofy demeanor usually lightens any tense scenes with regular small doses of humor, akin to the Barney Fife character in the classic US TV sit-com "The Andy Griffith Show". Any promotion to the top of the police force is clearly not likely. - This more elaborate side-plot softens the blow for the unexpected shocker delivered at about the middle of the episode.

Will we say a final goodbye to the old boss? At the very emotional ending, we are not quite certain. We do gain a refreshed sense of gratitude for the role of police in our society as law enforcers, and protectors of the people. This particular story is a bit heavier than most Tatort episodes, definitely one to leave the audience with much cause for reflection.

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Bad Trip (2021)

3/10

Endless series of absurd "hidden camera" gags

19 May 2021

Another take on the loser-boy in love with a winner-girl story line makes no effort at credibility, but instead tries to overwhelm with visual gags that are all of the grotesque and outrageous type. For a feature length movie, this formula wears thin fast.

For fans of the most basic "college humor" genre, the so-called-story starts off with the obligatory slap-stick belly laugh (car wash worker gets his uniform swallowed up by a vacuum hose). That may be an indicator of what to expect from here on, but somehow the creators of this never-ending Candid Camera marathon insist on building this pile of insane situations faster and higher than the human eye (or mind) could imagine. At what point does this become a Classic Warner Brothers cartoon?

The character of the insane jail-bird sister stands out, but still this ain't no "Ferris Bueller". Do yourself a favor and skip this one!

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Baby Face (1933)

9/10

True love travels on a gravel road

26 April 2020

Street wise "Lily" was used and abused by men since she was a teenager working in her father's low rent drinking joint. When her father is killed in an explosion, Lily decides to change her luck by moving to New York City, determined to never again be victimized, but to use men for her own selfish gain instead.

Barbara Stanwyck delivers a stellar performance in this obvious "Pre-Hayes Code" Classic. Many of the saucy lines and scenes laced with unmistakable innuendo would never have passed muster with the "morally superior" Hayes Office. It's for the better, because strict censorship would have robbed the story of its gritty realism.

A typical Depression Era plot, with a predictable "Capraesque" ending. A tiny scene shows a dashing young John Wayne. If Stanwyck wasn't a big star yet, this performance would have definitely made audiences and critics alike take notice. Many magic Hollywood moments make this one a real gem!

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Tatort: Das Leben nach dem Tod (2019)

Season 1, Episode 1,108

8/10

Revenge has no expiration date

24 November 2019

When a lonely elderly man is eventually discovered dead in his apartment (when neighbors noticed the stench of the decomposing corpse), the open and shut case of "natural causes" is immediately debunked by Kommissar Karow, who happens to live next door to the victim in an old "GDR" apartment high rise. The man was not only murdered, but apparently "executed".

This Berlin Tatort episode deals with the effects of German Reunification on some of the old East Germans, some of whom felt left behind in the turbulence of the social changes. A side plot shows Kommissar Rubin contemplating a possible promotion, however she is discouraged when she senses that she would be a "token hire" based on the fact she is Jewish.

The first half of the episode has a priceless scene inside a super market, where an old man creates a hostage situation, which Kommissar Rubin fearlessly defuses within minutes, to the astonishment of several police officers and a crowd of onlookers. The Karow/Rubin Team is known for their somewhat depressed, at times even suicidal demeanor. Incapable of maintaining relationships, these police partners seem to be each other's life support. The daily grind of solving violent crime took a toll on both of them, yet they get up each morning to make a difference in a society where murder is a sad and common reality.

I've seen hundreds of Tatort Episodes. As a native to Berlin, I found the story line of this episode engaging and filled with haunting realism. The police as "your friend and helper" have my deep respect.

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Ostfriesisch für Anfänger (2016)

Dying traditions of old German village get unexpected injection of new life

18 November 2018

Uwe is one of the last surviving villagers who are clinging to their old traditions, namely their "language". Not many "Ostfriesen" are still in command of the dialect spoken only in this remote Northern German region. When a government program to integrate foreign workers with special skills selects the village as host for their language training, most of the locals are skeptical. They speak of "refugees" who will taint the old traditions with their foreign cultures, a veiled suggestion of xenophobia and racism.

Old grumpy Uwe ends up teaching the "class" of foreigners, and quickly turns his own objections to the idea around and grows fond of his students. When exam time comes, all have failed completely to learn proper German (the high German used in print and on the TV news), but when Uwe points out that they have all mastered the Friesian dialect, which is, after all the "official language" of the region, all ends well, and the program is hailed a success and can continue.

There are quite a few funny scenes with linguistic misunderstandings, but also some tender moments that may bring a small tear to the viewers eyes. Don't expect an epic drama, because this is a German formula comedy. The subject of integration is handled in a way to show how Germany will need more skilled workers than the "local population" will be able to provide for a growing economy in a global society. A better future together, because everyone has talents to contribute.

Dieter Hallervorden (Uwe) has been the big come-back surprise with his recent critically acclaimed hit "Honig im Kopf". For decades the actor has been known as Germany's "clown" on TV and in films, and now in his golden years has become popular again with much more serious material. "Ostrfiesisch für Anfänger" is more light-hearted and on a small budget, but nonetheless offers a timely message as an effort to foster inclusiveness and to encourage looking beyond the familiar or "traditional" way of life in Germany. No big awards for this one, just a good load of entertainment.

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O'Horten (2007)

9/10

Last chapter of a lonely life devoted to trains, seeking purpose and a glimpse of true happiness

22 September 2018

Odd Horton has reached the end of the line. His entire life was devoted to safely guiding his trains and their passengers to their destinations. One last celebration with his peers who honor him at his retirement, then what? A man of few words, but with much warmth and compassion, Horten has spent a lifetime without quite knowing what it was all for. Now that he will no longer be needed at work, what does he have to live for? Aside from a senile mother in a retirement home, there is no family. In a span of just 2 days, Horten encounters similarly lost souls, desperate to strike up friendships, the experience of which may at first leave Horten shaken and upset, but eventually lead to a most satisfying conclusion. An enchanting little film set in cold and snowy Oslo that will warm your heart and renew your spirit!

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Kommen Sie am Ersten (1951)

8/10

No more credit where credit is due!

8 September 2018

The early years of Germany's "Economic Miracle" saw many people living beyond their modest means by making extravagant purchases without cash payments. When bills accumulate, and a collector comes calling, the most common answer would be "come back on the first of the month". Almost always that's just an empty promise, but the best way to get rid of the person calling for back payments.

With the above main story line, the film is a multi-layered love story with the predictable happy ending. At least 2 very popular songs of the time are prominently featured, the most memorable being the up-tempo love ballad "Du hast mir gerade noch zu meinem Glueck gefehlt". Two small but endearing roles were played by Inge Meysel and Josef Offenbach, who many years later would team up as Herr and Frau Scholz in the legendary TV series "Die Unverbesserlichen".

Fans of this type of vintage German Cinema will be entertained by this enchanting musical comedy. A genuine feel-good movie!

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That Can't Shake Our Willi! (1970)

6/10

Heinz Erhardt being Heinz Erhardt

30 September 2012

For fans of the comedic national treasure, Heinz Erhardt, this will be a treat. Anyone unfamiliar with Erhardt and his humor may find this film rather idiotic.

The Hirsekorns are a dysfunctional middle class family. Constantly competing with their neighbors in everything they do. A scene with the wives at the grocer's sets the stage for their feud. One housewife wants a long list of exotic food, then the other demands twice the amount of those same items, only with domestic brand names! "Anything you can do, I can do better!" Although middle aged, they act like spoiled children.

The main characters (along with this tone setting scene) are all introduced within 10 minutes. Aside from the constant talking, shouting and aimless running around (90% of which are done by Willi Hirsekorn and his daffy wife) there are many little jokes, put downs and thinly veiled insults a la Heinz Erhardt, which are probably worth the price of the DVD. The story and the overall production, however, is very dated and not quite up to the quality of other films of the classic German fluff/comedy genre.

The Hirsekorns' two elementary school age children are extremely poorly behaved. The family could certainly benefit from a visit by "Super Nanny". If you like Heinz Erhardt, you will enjoy his "schtick" and gloss over the obvious shortcomings of this film. I love Heinz Erhardt, and I watched the entire film for all of the gags.

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The Reader (1988)

6/10

World Literature coming to life in this "very French" Comedy

10 July 2011

Our heroine Constance (played by Miou-Miou in yet another role where she seems to play the same character as always...herself) turns her passion for literature into an exciting and profitable "profession". Her little newspaper advertisement eventually brings her a variety of eccentric clients who take advantage of this young woman's services (literally). Hired to read to the disabled, the elderly and the bored, Constance creates, fulfills and participates in her employers' fantasies and peculiar dreams. Warned by the clerk who helped her with the initial advertisement not to be surprised if her ventures yield complications and trouble, Constance seems to not only meet the challenge, but to enjoy the sense of danger and surprise.

The degree of tolerance and acceptance of human sexuality displayed in this film may appear over-the-top to viewers unfamiliar with French culture, and French society's extremely liberal social mores. This film was produced in the 1980s, not the 60s (you'd never know it). The "anything goes" mentality is likely to perplex the average viewer, and it may even offend some. The twisted freshness and daring situations eventually seem gratuitous. We "get it" pretty early on, yet the soft-core peep show continues throughout the film. The intertwining of actual literary passages and storyline are fascinating. Unfortunately my fascination with this film ends there.

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Titanic (1943)

9/10

First Rate Handling of the Legendary Tragedy

26 August 2009

This obscure film version of the Titanic Tragedy easily ranks with the big budget Hollywood productions. Filmed during the dark days of WWII, this German effort lacks none of the luster or acting quality of important cinema produced under less stressful conditions.

The film shows some obvious political propaganda, aimed at pointing out the "greed and ruthlessness" of British stock market speculators. This story angle is an interesting one, as the focus is not only on the human drama and several sensitively portrayed love stories, but also on placing blame for the loss of 1,500 human lives on a few greedy men.

I can highly recommend this version of the tragic, yet fascinating story. Far above most films produced with equal or better resources. The 1943 German film "Titanic" will continue to dazzle generations of movie lovers to come!

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