Reviews

I heard about this movie nearly a year ago and was really excited to see it (since I'm a fan of almost everyone who stars). Plus I respect Cusack's work since he has such an impressive resume.

However, this movie really did not hold together for the last 15 or 20 minutes, and I think quite a few people agree with me in saying; WHAT KIND OF ENDING WAS THAT? This is one of those endings where you're like "huh?" for the next hour after you've left the theater. Trying, desperately, to piece it together. Not one of those clever, profound, thought-provoking endings, but the one where it just didn't make any sense. It came out of left field too quickly and actually pretty unrealistic. Not WHAT happened to the victims, but that it was all apart of some psychotic man's imagination?? Um, okaaaaay.

Still, maybe if I didn't expect so much from it, I would have enjoyed it more. I just think it was cheapened and that the screenwriter couldn't come up with anything relevant so he tossed this onto our plates. I found the storyline of "everything happens for a reason and they were all meant to die at this motel on this night" and all. That's more interesting to me personally.

I have a few things to point out about the ending (so it's best not to read ahead if you've not witnessed this)...

Okay, so Madison is arrested and we think all is well, right? Not just yet folks! She manages to grab the officer's gun (as if they sit in the back-seat of a patrol car with a prisoner beside them -- and are foolish enough to let this happen anyway. And if so, they deserved to be shot) and shoots both cops. THEN she strikes again, by kidnapping Amy - Ben's typical, nothing special blah girlfriend, who was terribly UN-entertaining, and plans to drown her by cuffing her to a chair and pushing her into a swimming pool. At this point, we think Amy is doomed. But no... wait... Ben just HAPPENS to have the very same hairclip Madison gave him when they first met, in his back pocket, which enables him to unlock the cuffs and save her! The climax is Madison drowns, leaving everyone relieved and able to go on their merry way. ::gags herself:: Right, okay. ::rolls eyes::

How hideously ridiculous is that? Granted, I knew this wasn't going to be great for starters, simply because it was setup like most movies directed at the 13-17 age range. Hollywood must assume all teenagers are complete idiots and that we will not stand for any type of film that requires us to use two (or less) brain-cells to grasp the meaning of a storyline. I mean, after seeing movies like this, you'd think any schmuck off the street can be a screenwriter. Look kids, it IS possible to shovel this kind of garbage into the faces of movie-goers, who knew?! What happened to originality in the cinema world? Maybe this was more suspenseful and clever on paper, in a script - although highly doubtful - it certainly wasn't executed well onscreen. A total letdown. Grade: D (Cause it wasn't the most horrible I've ever seen, hard to believe, I know).

I don't think I'm alone in saying this was really confusing and just a jumbled mess. I mean, I didn't feel as if the scenes tied the story together. Like Brave Sir Robin said, there's lots of side plots that have no relevance. Personally, I didn't even get the ending. Yes, the girl coming through the TV - and her face - made me wince, but what I didn't get was why Rachel and Aidan survive just by watching a different copy of the tape?

I mean the film overall is creepy, NOT scary. I think some have mistaken the differences. Maybe it's a possibility that I just don't get the heebie-jeebies easily. The only movie that makes me pee my pants is "The Exorcist" and this does not, by far, even compare in the slightest. Especially considering what occurred in "The Exorcist" has been reported as actually happening, whereas this is so unbelievable and fictitious.

I might have enjoyed it more by not having the expectations that it was one of the most horrifying films of the past 10 years or something. I'd recommend that if you do see this, just take it in how YOU want to. Maybe you'll like it, who knows. But I personally don't plan to watch it again in the near future. AND I get the feeling this has sequel written all over it, due to the ending and the enormous success (which I'm sure the film company would love to duplicate).

I watched both this and the Shirley Temple version numerous times throughout my childhood, never really comparing the two. Now that I'm older, I've grown quite a distaste for remakes and sequels, and rightfully so!

My younger sister rented this and asked me to watch it with her. I didn't remember much of it and was skeptical. I was actually pleasantly surprised. I loved Sara's stories. I think this being a more recent version, there was an opportunity to add effects and bring a more dreamy and mystic storyline to the table.

I highly recommend this for children and even teenagers, like me, can enjoy it!

This movie wasn't one of the funniest I've ever seen or anything, but I don't think it's as bad as everyone is claiming. There were a handful of times when I laughed out loud. Many people I know complained about Tom Green - he's just the type of guy you either love, or really hate... doesn't mean he's a talentless goon. It's hard for me to picture Lee in a film not directed by Kevin Smith, it seems like he's not comfortable in anything else. Maybe I just perceive it wrong. But I'd only recommend this to a fan of somebody in the movie.

I didn't expect much since this was tossed out of theaters so fast. I think it had a good basis for a plot, but the end result was just strange and confusing. There were several things I didn't understand while I was watching it - as if I'd missed something - and became more and more frustrated. I think the effects were cool and creepy, but visual candy can only carry a film so far and unfortunately the script was ridiculous.

I really feel bad for Stephen Dorff, because I do like him and think he's a good actor, but for some reason he's continually done mediocre work for the last two or three years. Someone help this guy pick out a decent script, please! AND he should stick to bad guy roles, because I didn't buy him as a cop for two seconds.

Anyway, as far as the movie goes, I don't think it's the worst ever or anything, but I really just didn't get it. Personally, I was thinking it'd have a nice twist of an ending that would tie everything together, but I was disappointed in my assumption. I wouldn't recommend this movie unless you're a fan of the director or someone who stars in it.

After all the hype this movie got, I was hesitant to even see it because I figured it just couldn't be as good as everyone was saying it was. I think this was a nice story about a girl, her eccentric family and accepting her culture and where she comes from. And of course the classic love story. Was this film worthy of all the attention and praise it received? I don't think so. But it was enjoyable and had funny moments. Why on earth they would want to spin it off into a TV series, I have no idea. But you never know, it could be as likeable as the film. At least it has the original actors participating in it.

I saw this on the Sci-Fi station and decided to watch it because a friend had recommended it to me a few weeks prior. At first I was hesitant because it was four hours long, but I enjoy most King films so I pulled up a chair, grabbed some popcorn and prepared myself for a long haul I hoped would be worth it. Boy was I wrong.

The first two hours was just the kids' side stories and how they came in contact with "IT." By the time we got to the 4th or 5th kid, I didn't even care anymore. I figured since the second 2 hours would involve the adults, I'd give it a try. Well, it just kept going downhill. 30 Minutes before it was over, I was practically MAKING myself not change the channel. Only because I'd watched so much and figured I shouldn't turn it now. Not because I was actually interested in how it ended.

Maybe this was a scary movie 15 years ago, but I found the storyline, and especially the effects, embarrassing! I wonder why everyone I know enjoyed this movie so much? I just wasn't entertained and I'm sorry I wasted my evening on such garbage. John Ritter couldn't even save it and will someone please NEVER cast Annette O'Toole in a film again? She was horrible and very annoying. 1/10 for trying.

I didn't enjoy this movie AT ALL. It's mostly the approach to the story. I would have preferred seeing a realistic look at this disease, but instead we get tossed into this girl's mind so to speak, and are unfortunately forced to listen to an unnecessary and irritating narration throughout the whole film. And above all, like we're supposed to feel sorry, or some hint of emotion, for this woman who is unwed and has six children and living on welfare?! I don't think so! She put herself in that position by having kids when she was 14!! Just really cliched in certain situations which we expected: like mom having an unreliable on again-off again and somewhat abusive boyfriend, rebellious older children, scrapping for food and money, and Nikki just adapting to everyday functions. I realize the girl had the mind capacity of a two-year old, but that whining every time her mom would fight or get hurt, was SO annoying. I just became more and more annoyed as I watched this, so I turned it off after an hour. Very few made for tv movies are remarkably good, but this one is remarkably bad. Don't waste your time.

This is honestly the stupidest movie I've ever seen! The plot itself is so weak, I didn't expect much, but geez! Nothing was believable. Like any guy in his right mind would chase down his ex-girlfriend for two whole days. And that his friend would even ALLOW him to drive his truck and ride over medians, into woods and down streams. Especially since he 'built the truck by hand,' and shouted the entire time for him to 'watch out man!' There was zero dialogue (which I assume was a plus considering the *talents* of these actors), and we're just thrust into this never-ending car chase which I became irritated with after a while (I might as well have turned to ESPN and watched the races). Annoying characters, horrendous acting and a ridiculous script, equal a dead end. Pun intended. And weren't these people like 30+ years old? Why were they in college?? :rolls eyes:: Avoid at all costs and do something productive instead of wasting 90 minutes on this trash. 1/10.

I don't understand why Mad TV doesn't get as much hype or attention as SNL, when Mad is so much funnier! Lately, SNL just isn't giving me laughs like it has in the past. It seems as if MAD is willing to take an extra step and I find myself laughing hysterically through almost every sketch. Michael McDonald is pure comedy and should be recognized for his work. He's hilarious. SNL doesn't pack punches like it used to, watch MAD TV for a hipper, and funnier, hour.

This movie wasn't as bad as I expected it to be, but it's not that great either. Nor is it fit for everyone. I recommend first off, that you like or maybe even sing, karaoke. Otherwise you'll doze off because that's what it's all about. I felt like none of the stories were developed well enough, other than Todd and Reggie, who we spent the majority of time watching. Not that I'm complaining, it's just I didn't feel like I knew any of the other characters, or even cared what happened to them honestly. And, the movie didn't really focus on one genre. Like, it starts off kind of quirky and towards the end it gets serious, I didn't know what I was watching! But make a trip to the video store if you're a fan of anyone in the movie, and or, like karaoke yourself. 4/10.

I didn't expect much seeing as how even the rental box looked somewhat cheesy. Here it's called 'Hellion: The Devil's Playground' how spooky, too bad it didn't live up to it's title. I didn't like any of the characters, well, except Danny, he was the only one who didn't annoy me. I found myself laughing at situations instead of being scared. The deaths, special effects and even acting is incredibly lame. This plot has been done many times before, and more creatively at that. I didn't feel sorry for the characters dying at all, only thing I regret is paying 3 dollars too much for this video. I wouldn't recommend it unless you like low-budget, unoriginal horrors.

I hadn't heard any 'buzz' about this movie before I saw it. I had noticed it for rent in my local video store, but it didn't look like it was worth seeing. The box looked like it would be kinda low budget and I didn't know ANY of the actors, which made me think they probably couldn't act. I've shyed away from films before because of these reasons. However, I'm very pleased to admit I was wrong. I sat down to watch it one sleepless Thursday night when it came on HBO. I'm so glad I did. I could tell from the start it wasn't gonna be some cliched-to-hell script. I've seen my fair share of werewolf movies, and this one took a different approach: two teenage sisters are the subject! Maybe cause I'm a teenager myself, and am fond of a storyline involving kids my age, is why I enjoyed it so much. But I think an older audience could appreciate it too, if they're into horror. Just about everything in this movie was top notch: directing, acting, effects. Only thing that I think we all can agree on is the ending. I don't think Ginger or Sam should have bit the bullet. But all in all, I highly recommend this movie. It's a great flick! 8/10.

What's left to say about this movie that hasn't already been said? It was much better than I expected and was pleasantly surprised with the entire storyline, acting and direction. I think we should all really give the two boys a hand, I've never seen such great acting ability from children. I don't think people realize how difficult it is to find *good* kid actors. They did an amazing job, as well as the rest of the cast. You could tell there was much thought behind the process of writing the film. It wasn't just thrown together to make a few bucks. Without giving anything away, the ending creeped me out a bit. To think there's actually people like Adam and his father who can see things the way they can. I wish it had been promoted a little better, had it been, it would have smashed the box office. Highly recommended by me. 8/10.

I enjoyed this movie because it was REAL. Hollywood too often sugarcoat characters and their experiences, almost to the point that it makes you want to puke because you know real life never turns out that peachy. This ending wasn't exactly a happy one, all the problems weren't solved and you're left to imagine what went on afterwards. Nobody fell madly in love and got married like some fairy tale... that was refreshing. Splendid job by the actors, I love Juliette Lewis, and she was her usual charming self.

My only complaint, is why was Deb so.... frustrating? I found myself asking, 'Why is she being so difficult? Why doesn't she open her eyes and see what's going on? Does she really think Rick would want anything to do with a girl he picked up from a bar and had a one night stand with?' And so forth. SHE'S the one putting HERSELF in these ridiculous and tragic situations. Halfway through the movie I just got so tired of her endless cynicism. Miss Thurman was terrific, don't get me wrong, but the character irritated me somewhat, maybe that was just me.

Other than that, I think this is one of the best HBO films so far. They really have a knack for bringing real life to the screen, I'm hardly ever disappointed. Quite a few women can probably relate to one of the characters or at least seen themselves, at one time, in their predicaments. I mean, we all want to find true love... but make sure you're looking in the right place! 7/10.

If only people would understand the difference between a fun movie and one you should be taking seriously, please lighten up. This is not meant to be critiqued like it was supposed to be some big masterpiece. The plot seems like it would be geared toward 11 and 13 year olds, but it's unfair to say it doesn't appeal to an older audience, I'm almost 19 and I enjoyed it, so did my sister AND my mother, in fact she's the one who convinced me to rent it. The acting isn't mind boggling but it isn't so bad where you're rolling your eyes at it. Julie Andrews was excellent though and she looks good for her age too. I think some parts were cliched and a bit predictable, but who cares? It was still a cute movie. I don't think anyone should write off this film just by it's appearance, like I did, cause you'll be pleasantly surprised. And pay no mind to these "skip it, it's a waste of time" comments, that's crap.

Okay, I'll be one to admit that I enjoyed this film, I haven't seen the original but I actually want to now after seeing this. The makeup and special effects were superb, if anything that's what this film should be praised for. I rented the DVD and ventured into the special features category and went behind the scenes and discovered the huge amount of work that went into this underrated thriller. Some actors spending more than 5 hours in makeup, and 10 second scenes taking months to put together, unbelievable. I also loved watching the ghosts' fact files and why they were chosen for Cyrus' collection, it was interesting. My only complaint? Shannon Elizabeth's VERY less than stellar, um, performance isn't even the correct word. Why on earth does she get cast in films? Oh I know, because since American Pie she's been established as being totally hot (she's favorably pretty, but not stunningly beautiful). It has to be her looks getting her these roles, cause obviously it isn't her "talent." Matthew Lillard was great as always and the rest of the cast wasn't that bad, except for that annoying kid. I wouldn't call this movie great, but it entertained me and that's why I rented it in the first place. Don't take it too seriously, it's just supposed to be creepy and fun, which I thought it was. 6.5/10

I'm a big fan of Drew Barrymore, and was really excited to see this movie. I waited and waited for it to come to video because I didn't have a chance to catch it in theaters. I brought it home, sat down and expected to see something really awesome for the next 2 hours. I was anticipating seeing Steve Zahn enter the picture because I'm a huge fan of his as well, and knew he'd bring that comedy charm he has to the film, which he did. However, as I continued to watch, I realized I began to get annoyed with Beverly around an hour and half into the movie. It wasn't Drew, it was the character itself. She was selfish and always blamed everyone else for her not becoming a famous writer or having a career whatsoever. I mean hello, you're the one who got pregnant, stop pointing the finger at everyone but yourself. You could try and assume what state of mind she was in like, she feels held back and the intensity of her failures force her to lash out at her own 5yr old child. But who wants to sit and give her a psychological evaluation while you're watching the film? It just irritated me to see a mother not appreciate what she has instead of whining about what she doesn't 98% of the time. Set aside this flaw, I thought the acting was brilliant (I loved Zahn in this movie), so was the directing and writing. I cut my rating right down the middle, simply because I couldn't get over that immature "I wanted to have the life I've always dreamed of and you screwed it up for me" attitude from Beverly, 5/10

I rented this film knowing of Larry Clark's work (which is exactly why I didn't let my sister watch it even though she begged me, she's only 13 by the way...) I know his style is very raw and intense and he never sugarcoats the storylines. Extensive nudity and drug use were definitely not spared, but I think it made things more realistic. That's probably the key word in all of Clark's films, they're always taken from a realistic point of view. It's refreshing to see such honest work, but at the same time, very shocking. I thought the actors were well cast, except maybe Rachel Miner, I didn't care for her much, I'm not sure if it was cause her character was sort of clingy and annoying or if it was how she portrayed Lisa. I always thought of Brad Renfro to be the bully type, I was surprised he was the one being harassed, but he pulled it off, I enjoy his work, he's terribly underrated. Nick Stahl was great and Leo Fitzpatrick also did a nice job. Not to mention, Donny was hilarious. I'm gonna keep an eye out for Michael Pitt, he seems like he's going to go onto more great projects. Overall, this film could bring out some taboo "I can't believe they're doing that" feelings, but definitely worth your time... 8/10

I thought this was a cute movie, it was an interesting look at the cliches of romantic comedies. I thought the whole cast was great and I loved how James (Tom Arnold) broke down all the basics of how the storyline could go, he covered everything including what no romantic comedy could do without, the love triangle. I didn't expect much considering this was a TV movie, not to mention something from E!, but it was quite good and I recommend seeing it if it repeats. 8/10

First off let me say I absolutely despise sequels because I know it's just going to embarrass the first film. I think Rose pulled off a wonderful job. The only appeal in this film is Jodi which isn't really THAT appealing if you're a chick. She has yet to impress me of any acting ability whatsoever. I honestly think she's only cast in movies for her looks, because I will admit she's very pretty, in fact a little too pretty for this particular role. She's didn't scream "Psychopath" across the screen to me at all, I think the girl who played Laney would have been a better choice, I mean come on throw some makeup on her and a pushup bra and it could have worked. Anyway, I really preferred the original, this is actually probably one of the worst sequels, it's an alright movie to watch when you're bored but don't expect too much.

I'm not sure what it is that makes me like this movie so much, because as I said it is rather cliche, but I don't think it makes the film bad just because the script isn't totally original, because let's be honest, nothing is original nowadays. I loved The Crush and think Miss Silverstone is a talented actress, but her appearances itself is too sweet for you to actually believe she was psycho, Rose on the other hand has established herself as a, let's say "doomy" actress and she knows how to throw those "f*ck off" looks around perfectly which made things a little more realistic. She basically carries the film, of course that's what she was supposed to do... if you love Rose you definitely need to rent this one or watch out for it on HBO because personally, I think it's cool and one of her better movies.

P.S. -- Skip that dreadful sequel!