Change Your Image
dionfly22
Reviews
Victory Through Air Power (1943)
Thank goodness Disney was American
This film will change the way you look at cartoons. The power possessed by the cartoon to simplify and in this case "Disney-fy" the bloody politics of war, grows ever more chilling the more charming this cartoon gets. Victory Through Air Power is the crown jewel of this gem-laden Disney DVD called Disney Goes to War. I love it because it is such a simplified and clear teaching of the mid-WWII strategies intended by the powers employing Mr. Disney. Goebbels in the area of devastating propaganda, comes to mind while watching. America's fortunes could have been vastly different if Walt's talent's had been captured by the Nazis. See for yourself what a mix of emotions this film causes in you. To see that the same studio which produced Snow White and Bambi could so quickly and effectively recalibrate their drawing tables for War is spooky and makes you wonder what other messages lie hidden in the vast Disney canon.
Death by Design: Where Parallel Worlds Meet (1997)
The Art of Living and Dying
Browsing in the library of Science and Industry in Manhattan, I asked the Universe for an inspiration and I found this VHS cassette on the lower rack of an unshelved-tapes pushcart. It was exactly what I was in the mood for. I can't get enough of these films that see the connection between life at the microscopic and sub-atomic levels and the larger systems at work in our world. There are shots in 'Death By Design' of cells that join to form a slug and then become a plant; it's a marvelous testament to the miracle that is life and how exciting it is to be a part of. This film juxtaposes images of preserved ancient architecture, enveloped by modern design, intercut with shots of the editor of this very film trimming the fat of the film, while a science professor reminds us in the voice-over how efficient a system is which creates much more than is needed and how through a divine editing process, referred to in this film as "cell death", allows the strongest natural choice to emerge. This is an inspiring film for anyone currently experiencing the art of living.
Miller's Crossing (1990)
One of the Very Best
This movie demonstrates how it is that true creative originality, married with artistic and technical excellence, are still possible in even the most seemingly overworked genres. This movie is so much fun. It is clear that the artist's had fun doing it and were in-joy-in themselves. So fun. Highly recommended. Gabriel Byrne is such a study in calm under pressure. Marcia Gay Harden gives life to what are really only a very few lines and creates a complete human being. Albert Finney, although uncertain whether or not to use an Irish brogue, balances with mastery the portrayal of power in the crucible of romantic love. I don't know the name of the man who plays Caspar, but he is so delicious in his role. He took big chances and we were all rewarded by his courage. I saw this movie in '93 for the first time and did not appreciate it at all. I'm watching it now and loving it.