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CallieZStern
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I, Claudius (1976)
A classic in every way
This was made long before I was born. I loved the books by Robert Graves, but was hesitant to watch it because the adaptation is rarely as good as a strong novel and because it is such an old series. I'm so glad I decided to give it a chance. Derek Jacobi is stellar, but when isn't he? Patrick Stewart had hair in this early role. Livia (Sian Phillips) is my favorite character-- richly nuanced, so sexy, so deliciously manipulative. Caligula is portrayed to a tee. I'd say all the evil characters are the best, but in Claudius's world, that's nearly everyone except him! Yes, some plotlines from the book are omitted, but the series was long enough to allow the story to breathe.
Kecksburg (2019)
Who makes a UFO film about the Constitution?
I expected this to be a fun sci-fi film about aliens in smalltown Pennsylvania. That could have been a fun, lighthearted movie, but that's not what they chose to do. Instead, Cody Knotts, who ran for office locally a few times, made a film which touches on very relevant contemporary themes: mistrust of the government, the assimilation of "aliens," and the meaning of the Constitution in the lives of everyday Americans. It has some funny moments, like Curt Wootton's (AKA Pittsburgh Dad) rant in the fire truck, but this is actually a dark film with a disturbing subtext. Scot Cooper is a very serious actor who carries the weight of his role well and makes us believe in the reporter's obsession with the case. His friend Clutch was sensitively portrayed by Scott Joshway. I'm not sure if the director cast so many actors with the same first name deliberately (there's at least two more Scotts), but they were talented actors. There's a great story here, but it could use a tighter edit. I did see it at the first showing, so hopefully they will take some feedback and make some tweaks.
Tromeo and Juliet (1996)
I tried
I really did, but I just couldn't watch it. Maybe I have too much respect for Shakespeare. Maybe it's just not my cup of tea. I have watched a couple of other Troma films and, while I didn't love them, I at least made it to the end.
It's My Party and I'll Die If I Want To (2007)
A good try on a low budget
This was a fun film and Adrienne Fischer puts in a strong performance. The production values left a bit to be desired, but you can only do so much on a very limited budget.