Reviews

Nominated for 11 Academy Awards and for good reason. When released on video several years ago, I watched about the first 5 minutes and turned away, with no stomach for the blood and graphic violence in the opening scene...with the release of the special edition DVD and it's reasonable price and many accolades, I had to buy it to add to my collection. And am I glad I did. First Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks were absolutely superb as director and actor, respectively. No one in tinseltown could have done a better job with a war movie. And Spielber's objective was met with me anyway....know why we celebrate "Memorial Day" and "Veterans Day"...this movie will explain why... The cinematography in this film won the Oscar and rightly so!! I watched the special features and Spielberg stated he extracted something like 60% of the color to allow for more of a dated type film appearance, to look like footage....and it worked...it made the movie so much more believable...and bring you to the time and place and the horrors of war and heroes we hear about but never meet. The viewer is spared no brutality, no violence of war...it's frightening but gripping, hard to watch but also hard to look away....

There are many tearful moments in this movie, so it's definitely a "have a tissue nearby" film. Sad, poignant, profound moments that (if you're human i.e. compassionate) will force you, however subliminally to remember what honoring our fallen heroes and the survivors of war is all about. Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg will bring you into the lives of the soldiers of WWII. And this movie should awaken the viewer who sees it now to the honor that our soldiers from any way, whether it's WWI, WWII, Vietnam (especially) and now Iraq, DESERVE to be honored for their losses..for they're lack of tomorrows are for our todays!

A 10/10!! Kudos to Spielberg! This will join the movie classics of all time!!

Just rented and watched this film last night and what a surprise!! Denzel Washington proves yet again his diverse talent and praiseworthy abilities as an actor. He plays a detached, "has been" ex-CIA agent with an impressive investigative/agent history who's hit the bottle and lost his way in life. Enter Christopher Walken as his long time friend who genuinely cares about his struggle and helps him get a job as a lowly paid bodyguard in Mexico City for a little girl, Dakota Fanning (who starred in "I am Sam" and is a wonderful little actress who will no doubt have a successful future in Hollywood).

The movie, although a long 2 hours+, spends the better part of the first half developing the relationship between Denzel's "Creasy" character and Dakota's character "Pita". While it was less than exciting to watch it was necessary to show the growth of their love for one another to support the latter half and plot of the story.

The little girl is kidnapped and from that point the story becomes "A man on Fire"..Denzel is "reborn" and out for bloody revenge for the "loss" of the little girl...some grisly scenes, one after the other dominate the rest of the film. Now despite the fact that Denzel's character takes matters into his own hands and is, in reality..committing unspeakable crimes himself, we care too much about him and the little girl to hold him accountable.

There are suspenseful moments in the movie, with a predictable turn of events (although the back of the DVD hints to this with the comment "He will stop at nothing to save her") and the viewer is not so surprised. But it's not a psychological thriller, so it's not a fault of the screenwriter or director.

I found this a tender movie and sincerely vested in the character Denzel plays. I shed a few tears at the ending and for that I give the movie 7/10*..

A few minuses...the annoying MTV video like editing. It was full of fast, rapid editing, with too colorful, or colorless close up shots in the beginning..at times you almost felt like you were watching an MTV video without the music (Marc Anthony's presence in the movie added to that message in my opinion, a not so good choice for those who casted him, physically he fit the role...??? his acting ability) It reminded me of the technique used in "Traffic", which is new and creative, but distracting for the audience.

What were they thinking when they brought in Marc Anthony?? His supporting role was somewhat significant, but no awards there.

Also, Mickey Rourke...overshadowed..a waste of talent there. I would have like to have seen his part expanded, because in the context of the story, it WAS significant...

Overall a great film, definitely don't miss this one. Consider buying it..also of noteworthy mention was the score (if you can get past the MTVesque editing...a little bit of Lisa Gerrard's engaging voice is thrown in, who was also involved in the score for "Gladiator")

If you can get past the annoying editing style, and somewhat predictability of the plot, you'd be hard pressed not to enjoy this one..a pretty good drama/action piece.

Johnny Depp is absolutely, positively fabulous in this film. His take on the character "Sam" who falls for a mentally ill woman ("Joon" of Benny and Joon) is sweet and quite lovable in this film. It's been said he modeled the character after Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, as he often emulates other real life people. Well, if that was his intention, he excelled.

There are so many touching moments in this film, they're too numerous to mention. Benny's loyalty and love for his sister, the tender, innocent love between Sam and Joon and all the in betweens. And it's quite funny. Depp "performs" throughout the movie and we are delighted with laughter and tears.

A scene worth mentioning, the counter scene at the diner with the twinkies...dancing twinkies...hilarious..AND Depp swinging from the building across the window with his hat (would you expect anything less from Depp?) This is a great film for all to watch, young and old.

It's a story about hope and love, loyalty and letting go..

Mary Stuart Masterson is a master in herself in this movie. She held her own against Aidan Quinn and Johnny Depp.

A wonderful treat. Get it for yourself or kids, sit back with some popcorn and get ready to laugh and cry, this movie will make you do both.

8/10* Don't miss this one. And if you're a Depp fan, add it to your movie collection, you won't be sorry..it's a film you can watch many times...

Hat's off to Johnny again!!

I loved this movie. For all its darkness, "crime" and violence, it's a in depth look at the rise and fall of a real life drug dealer, spanning decades with slightly melodramatic ending (which is one of the very few critiques I have about it). It's similar to the forever well known, loved "Goodfellas" and Ray Liotta shows up to pay his respects ;) as the removed, complacent father of drug dealer George Jung. It's hard to say which movie was better, this one or "Goodfellas", both are excellent. Both show the lure and glamour of the drug world and the eventual demise of those pulled into it. Blow is based on the life story of one man who just can't seem to extract himself from the benefits; the highs, the $$, the lifestyle and the difference is, he is now in prison.

I was enlightened and informed by this movie, unaware of George Jung's role in the drug world and his relationship with the Cartel's during that time period (I was a small child back then) and Blow gives an accurate portrayal of his life (I'm sure from his point of view, as Depp narrates throughout the movie).

The movie has montage moments, flashy lights and violence thrown in as well. And some bittersweet scenes tossed in for some relief of the coldness of the drug world. The movie takes you in and allows you to feel for Jung, despite the fact the he was a major drug dealer in his day. Depp does a wonderful job as he ages, his make up worth noting..

One disappointment was the choice of his wife, Penelope' Cruz. The only thing she contributed to that was believable was her accent. Her acting was, for lack of a better word, terrible. Some say she's beautiful..she may be to some, but she's missing TALENT. Her acting was almost painful to watch...visually she was a great choice, but align her with Lorraine Bracco in "Goodfellas" and she just falls short. Perhaps Salma Hayek would have been a better choice for the role, at least she can act. (and I'm sure she'd provide as much eye candy for the men out there ;)

If you liked "Goodfellas" you'll enjoy Blow. But try not to compare them (it's hard, I know!) They're similar and you'll find many parallels, but Blow shows you a slightly different perspective.

A smart choice for Johnny Depp to do this movie. We see how dynamic he really is..and how incredibly talented as an actor.

8/10* in my book. I recommend buying the DVD, it's definitely worth owning and the special features are intriguing. Don't miss it, you won't be disappointed. (except for in whom I mentioned above) this movie has spice and it's exciting to watch.

OK, first you should know, this is based on a Stephen King novel. So, expect to NOT be surprised, and perhaps predict the movie before it ends and reveals itself. With that said, sit back and enjoy the thing. Take it for what it is, a psychological thriller. Nothing more, nothing less. Depp is phenomenal but after POTC, he has a tough act to follow and if you give this movie some thought, he delivers. He's still his quirky self, but in a domesticated role. His personality shines through and adds a touch of spark to this complex character.

While I can usually predict a movie, this one did surprise me and the clues were there, but I believe because, as a huge Depp fan, I was too engrossed in his style to pick up on the clues to the truth of the movie...so I was quite surprised to find out what was really going on.

I've seen some of King's movies, but have yet to read his novels. However, the movie delivers what some of what it promises and that's suspense and thrills, "horror" being questionable? I was actually less "scared" the more the movie and story revealed itself. But because of Depps abilities as an actor, I was still hooked.

Basically this is a movie about a jilted husband (Depp's character, Mort Rainey, who's a novelist) who's accused of plagiarism by a strange man who arrives at his secluded cabin one day (Shooter, played by John Turtorro, who did a fantastic job...accent and all, creepy indeed) We're given a bit of Mort's history with his failed marriage and where it's heading...towards his self destruction. But the events that unfold with Shooter, the creepy writer who appears from nowhere, allows for a believable twist.

We are brought into the mind of a schizophrenic who is actually suffering from hallucinations and delusions. And we find he's unable to control his murderous thoughts and desires. He lives in his own reality and he himself is unable to separate fact from fiction as we see when he's revealed. I gave this movie a 7/10* mostly for Depp's acting which is always superb...but it does lack in certain areas..

It could have been MORE scary since it was depicted as a horror film and I wouldn't quite put it in that category, it doesn't elicit the horror like some films such as "Silence of the Lambs" or "Seven"..or even Stephen King's "The Shining" (but that's a tough act to follow too) and the movie could have been less predictable (although I fell for it) many I've spoke to who've seen it were disappointed to have "figured it out" early on. A friend I watched it with started commenting during the film (as we watched it on my 55 inch surround sound TV) that "this can't be right" and "no way would that happen" before the "secret" window was opened, however where I thought he was wrong, was that...in a deranged mind affected by schizophrenia, what is right? So, therein the story delivers.

I wouldn't buy the DVD, unless you're a Depp fan, but it's definitely worth watching on a cold autumn night, close to Halloween, for a thrill or two....

As a Jim Caviezel fan, I had to see this and was pleasantly surprised to watch a very good film. One with an interesting story, well developed characters and a lot of thrills.

The "Count" starts out in the film as a poor, uneducated worker in love, star crossed and innocent, and finds himself the envy of a friend and on his way to some misfortune and being betrayed by his "friend"..he lands in a barbaric, horrific prison and luckily meets a jailmate who loves God and who's willing to teach him all he knows.(perhaps that's why Mr. Caviezel chose the role, his being a devout catholic, and the movie's underlying religious message of faith in God, that "with God, all things are possible" and the importance of forgiveness, for to hold on to it erodes the self, not so evident with the unfaithful friend, but more so with the love of his life) An interesting point to ponder.

Here's where Edmund Dantes finds his will, through the faith and teachings of Richard Harris' character Abbé Faria, who becomes his way out...literally and figuratively. (this part is where it becomes a bit unbelievable, but who cares, it's a swashbuckler, we can forgive a little) And so begins the birth of "The Count of Monte Cristo"

After his escape from hell, he finds fortune through slight misfortune, and befriends a real friend as we will find out, Luis Guzmán, who becomes his valet, an actor who we see mostly in supporting roles who is perhaps rather unappreciated??

With his return to society as a man who found fortune (or should I say was given fortune) he creates an identity unknown to all as the "Count of Monte Cristo" and a persona is born. But he has motives, revenge to exact on the former friend who betrayed him and who also happened to steal and marry his woman. An elaborate plan is thought out and ensues...and as it unfolds we find ourselves cheering him on...you might say "an eye for an eye"..

There are a few delightful surprises in it, which make it worth watching, not to mention the obvious swashbuckling moments it calls for...and it has a happy ending, so it could be what you might call, in the end, a "feel good movie"..I don't recall it being a blockbuster, it could've been if it was made after "The Passion of the Christ" the movie that put Caviezel on the Hollywood map, in fact, my guess is..it would have been...Caviezel is absolutely wonderful in this movie, he really is so talented.

My vote; 8/10*, one even worth owning..see it and enjoy it. You'll find some remarkable talent in this film. And I don't think you'll regret watching it.

I own this movie in my DVD collection of over 150 movies and it remains one of my favorites. Each time I watch it, I am still moved. It's hard not to tire of John Travolta and strangely, he's not mentioned very much with regard to this movie. But he nailed it. A suave ambulance chaser who ends up with "an orphan" case with merit he accidentally stumbles onto. It's full of tragedy, determination, character, and integrity. You get all of that when you watch it. This is a lawyers movie in that it portrays a group of lawyers who each actually have a conscience. James Gandolfini has a small part, but powerful nevertheless. The opening scene is gripping, and the movie holds your interest from beginning to end. Robert Duvall is remarkable in his role, an excellent pick. William H. Macy as a supporting actor was flawless. What gets you the most about this film is that it happened, to real people, in real life. It could have come right out of a John Grisham novel, but it didn't...it's factual and that's what captivates you. Hats off to John Travolta in this one, another notch in his belt. 8/10 in my book. Don't miss it.

After watching Russell Crowe in "Gladiator" who would've thought he'd appear in another fantastic film and perform yet again as the immensely talented actor that he is. This drama has a complex story line, but it's a complex topic, so expect nothing less than a complex movie. Mind boggling to say the least. This movie is a love story, a story of a triumph over one of the least talked about diseases around; mental illness. Ron Howard takes us into the mind of a schizophrenic and he does it so beautifully, so tenderly. Aside from the story of one man's life, Mr. Howard brings the sadness and misfortune of a terrible disease into our minds as we are shown the mind of one of it's victims, John Nash. It's an extraordinary story of an extraordinary man, with an extraordinary life.

It begins with John Nash entering into Princeton's graduate program and we are given a peek into his "brilliant" mind...and slowly into his illness. Of course, with dramatic license we are told of a great love story, but I wonder of the truthfulness of that part (Mr. and Mrs. Nash were divorced for some years and remarried a few years before the movie was made, not as the movie portrayed) but, for the purpose of the movie we are not angry for the minor alterations of reality.

Ed Harris is so good in this we almost believe he is real as Parcher, a character that only exists in John's mind. As is Paul Bettany, Nash's "roommate" and "friend"..while we are watching we are unsure and fooled into thinking their roles are that of actual men, when they are not. Thank Ron Howard for that. I later read that there are clues to show us before the viewer is made aware of it...for instance...when Charles' niece is playing in the field with the birds, running around, the birds don't fly away, hence she is not real...also, Charles is not seen at Nash's wedding and while we may wonder why, we aren't sure at that point why.

Also, there is some truth to the fact of John Nash working for the government, we just don't know to what extent. In the movie, there is a fine line between what the viewer is shown to be real and imagined. That's what makes it so good, so artistically crafted. A creative scene in which we see Russell Crowe called to a top secret room to decipher "messages" with the montage of computerized numbers is perfect. It's as if he's spinning out of control. Or perhaps a glimpse into his brilliant yet affected mind.

There are many poignant moments in the film. To name a couple; when Nash's rival allows him to take office at Princeton while fully aware of his illness. He shows compassion we should all have for the mentally ill. Also, when he receives the pens in the tea room, we see that he is recognized for his work and not shunned because of his condition.

A beautiful Mind is a beautiful story with few flaws (one I feel I should mention is Crowe's accent, it could have been better..not that I could do better but it sounded off)

This is another movie that will not be forgotten and will go down in film history books. Not only for the talent of those involved in making it, but for it's contribution to awareness of an ugly, ignored disease that affects so many...this is one you've got to see, even own (the DVD, of course for the special features) I give it 9/10*

I can't understand anyone watching this movie and not liking it. Denzel Washington is fabulous as a father who will stop at nothing to save his child. Anne Heche is superb as the cold, formal hospital administrator who lives by the attitude "this is a business". This is a movie that has 2 themes. One is about the love of a parent for a child, the other is about the "business" of health care. Both are equally powerful themes. One will ask themselves, if a parent, would they not do the same thing if their child was gravely ill??? What would one stop at to save their child?? One will also ask, what kind of a health care system do we have in the good 'ol USA to allow something like this to happen (not based on a true story, but could very well happen, as a nurse, I can attest to this). The role was made for Denzel, he aced it. Ray Liotta is great too, but underused. I would have liked to see him in Duvall's role instead..but nonetheless, the three of them, were convincing. This movie is worth watching not only for the fantastic acting, but the message it sends. More people need to see it to become better educated health care consumers and familiarize themselves with what health care in this country is all about $$$...that said...it is a powerful movie, very intense because of the emotions it brings to the surface. Watch it, you won't be disappointed 8/10*. (Grab some tissues too, and if you can, watch the special features on the DVD to learn a little)

After seeing this movie countless times (I've owned two DVD copies, lost the first, bought another) I've finally gotten around to comment on it. This is one of the best epic movies I've seen to date. You'll see the "glamour" of the Roman empire, one mans quest for revenge, and fantastic filmaking at it's best, with an awesome score to accompany it all (Hanz Zimmer). Even the soundtrack is great. When I first sat down to watch this film, I was taken aback by the brutality of the opening sequence, but I hung in there and I am so glad I did. If it was Ridley Scott who cast Russell Crowe in this, he should have won best director...(well he should have won anyway). First, the bloody scenes were fearfully realistic, the costumes elaborate and detailed, and the special effects astounding. The Colosseum crowd CGI created yet unknowing to the naked eye. This movie has all the elements of a great epic, war, battles, love stories, tragedy, "strength and honor", integrity, beauty, and it deserved every Oscar it received. Russell Crowe's acting was and remains some of the best I've seen on the screen so far. His response to his loss was heartbreaking, and his quest for vengeance, intense and heart pounding. With his change in status, he never changed his "character" and his performance shows it. Russell Crowe deserved that Oscar, and I applaud him. Connie Nielson was an unusual choice, but she got it and deserves honorable mention. This was also one of Richard Harris' greatest choices, he was made for the role of an emperor, we lost a great actor with his death, as we did with Oliver Reed as Proximo, the slave owner and former Gladiator. Another "newcomer" Djimon Hounsou as Maximus' friend and fellow slave/gladiator was a wonderful surprise, he was enjoyable to watch and likable...it would be nice to see him again on the silver screen. Joaquin Phoenix was another wise pick for the young emperor, we see what a fine actor he is in this film and his great potential. We know that because we hate him in it...and kudos to him for eliciting that emotion from the viewer. If you watch this film, you'd be hard pressed to find fault with it. It's so spectacular, emotionally charged, and full of talent. I still find myself listening to and loving the song "Now we are free" by Enya (played during the final scene in the Colosseum with the sad yet triumphant ending) When asked or discussing movies, I usually mention this one as my all time favorites, as "new" as it is. My only regret is that with the ending as it was, there is no room for a sequel (however although a sequel would unlikely be as great, it would have been interesting at least) This is a movie you've got to see, people will be talking about it and viewing it for years to come...don't miss it..10/10!!!

Definitely a chick flick. Or a date movie. But it grabs you because of the beautiful scenery. It's your typical date/chic movie because of its plot..woman gets scorned, discovers self, grows in character, and starts all over with a happy ending. But Diane Lane makes it worth watching. She herself has definitely grown as an actor and it shows, she seems to keep getting better and better in her romantic roles; The Perfect Storm, Unfaithful, and now this one. This movie falls into my "cute and entertaining" category..with a bit of more of a focus on the woman in a "relationship" rather than both a man and a woman. The beautiful, breathtaking cinematography really captures your attention, if you haven't been to charming far and away places, you'll find yourself wanting to after watching this one. I give it a 7/10, above average, but not perfect because of the fundamental plot/outline..and of course, the predictable ending. Watch it for the sheer beauty of the location and Diane Lane's skill as an actor.

To sum up this movie in one word; bittersweet. Notable mention Kevin Spacey's character is bittersweet as much as Haley Joel Osmet's. You'll feel a real range of emotions after watching this movie. I bought it discounted at my local movie rental store and I'm glad I did. I watched it with my 10 yr old son and he's actually taking the message of the movie to heart and applying to his life. Wow, when a movie has that affect, what can you say. Jim Caviezel plays a small but nonetheless impressive part too. It's a solid drama, original story that you should watch when you're in the mood for some food for thought. I gave it an 8/10...only because the ending was somewhat predictable when we see the irony of it all. Grab a box of tissues for this one, you'll need them.

I just watched this movie again being a huge Depp fan, it's one of his best. Other actors his age could have been casted (Cruise, Cusack, Penn possibly) but only Johnny could have pulled it off. (If you see the real Joe Pistone in the DVD special features, you'll know why). Why is this movie so moving? Because of strong bond is the basis of what a mob family is all about..honor, loyalty, trust..it has all the elements, and they are intertwined along with the same values to which an FBI agent relies on and believes in as well. So when "Donnie Brasco" befriends "Lefty" and goes underground for 6 yrs to bring down over 100 indictments, you are swept in to the lifestyle he leads as he's "working". You see a friendship between two men, from different worlds in reality but undercover for one, and ignorant for the other. Johnny Depp as an Italian man is almost as polished as Al Pacino. Both were intelligently casted as was Anne Heche as the nagging wife! This film gives us (from what the director says and Pitone himself) an in depth view of the crime underworld. What we get to see from the director and writer is the humanity, the "real" people who live that life. Both lives for that matter, that of "made men" and of FBI agents. Very believable, right down to the time period, the costumes, the cars..and of course the two greatest actors..Depp and Pacino! Rent it, borrow it, buy it, whatever you can, but don't miss it. You'll find yourself feeling sorry for a mob guy and how amazing is that??

This is one of Disney's best. Based on the ride (although not a whole lot of reference..I went on the ride after having seen the movie) the viewers are in for movie ride of a lifetime. Full of excitement, surprise, and wonderful special effects, with an intriguing storyline behind it, well it's worth it's weight in gold. Johnny Depp as Cpt. Jack Sparrow was wonderfully casted. No one else could have done as spectacular as a job as him, with his quirks and oddities. He was "gyped" so to speak out of a well deserved Oscar in this one. As a woman, he somehow managed to be so attractive in this, despite his black and gold teeth, dirty hair and fingernails and constant inebriation. He has said he "modeled" the character after long time British rock star, Keith Richards and he had it right on the nose! No matter how hard you try, you can not dislike him in this movie..right down to his "eunich" comment to Orlando's character "Will" while fighting in the shop. The movie has a few twists and can be a little confusing (how is it that "Will" survived without becoming one of the living dead, when he was wearing the stolen medallion??) but if you watch it more than once or carefully, its there for the viewer to figure out (spells prequel). Geoffrey Rush is perfect as the villain, a shame he won't be in the "sequel". Ms. Knightley, a spunky, beautiful newcomer, perfectly casted as the damsel in distress. This is a must see. The song "Drink up me 'earties yo ho" worth it, Cpt Jack capturing his horizon, the skeletons in the moonlight..very Disney, but very worth it. The reason I gave it a 10/10, I can't think of any way to improve it. And it's one movie I am eagerly awaiting the sequel to. Hopefully, Johnny Depp will take home the Oscar for the next one, because he deserved it.

While this movie is based on a real life occurrence of a lost fishing vessel, it was born from Sebastian Junger's book (which I did NOT read) So credit must be given where it is due. To watch a movie about a tragedy that really occurred can really affect you. That's what happened to me after watching this movie. The special effects are amazing, especially if you're watching it on a 55 inch TV with surround sound. While the movie takes you into the lives of those aboard the "Andrea Gail" and makes you like them, feel for them and their loved one's, it should be noted that the storm is a character in the movie as well. Considered one of the worst coastal hurricanes, it's frightening to watch, but so suspenseful, you can't help but to like it. Mother nature at it's worst. The director gives us a window into the lives of those men, whose lives were the sea who took them. George Clooney is perfect as the captain, Mark Wahlberg is fresh as one of his fisherman and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio smart in her role as well as George Clooney's female counterpart. Diane Lane's role as "the girlfriend" really makes you want to cry, you feel her loss, her aching, her undying love for her man. For that, Ms. Lane deserves mention. I've watched this movie (own the DVD) numerous times and it never ceases to move me. It's sad and not so predictable...unless you know of the movie or book, you might not expect the ending. That's part of what makes a good movie, to be able to keep you in suspense and wondering "what's going to happen" or expecting a "happy" ending and not getting it..I give it 8/10, definitely worth getting the DVD for all the special features and true life stories.

I just watched this movie after having seen it years ago, bought it at a local supermarket to add to my DVD collection. And what a good choice it was. First, I want to say, although it appears to be a courtroom drama movie..it's not. It's a movie about a man's character with the use of a courtroom and a lawyer to show it. It's definitely quite different from Newman's typical movies.

This movie is about the character development of Francis and his descent and ascent in his personal and professional life, how the former affects the latter. It's quite introspective, which I believe he quoted in the "featurette" on the DVD. We see a man struggling with his sense of self worth and hit rock bottom with the typical use of alcohol as a means to get there. Newman is fabulous in this movie, we see him raw and vulnerable, his acting is remarkable. His mentor, played by Jack Warden, is also worth noting. Although their relationship is one that is typical for any movie of this kind, Warden is extremely believable.. Of course, it's a dated movie (1982) but for its time, it's worth watching, or even purchasing if you can get it for a discount. My rating 7/10 stars...