Reviews
Whatever (1998)
Brilliantly executed coming-of-age drama
While many will write this off as a slow and plotless waste of celluloid, I found it to be an excellent portrayal of the disconnection and confusion that plagues our youth. Sad to say, this could have had a "based on a true story" title card at the beginning. I've known girls who expressed their praise towards this film for it captures their growing-up period perfectly. If it feels like it's going nowhere, well that just adds to the film's realism. Unlike KIDS, the lead character finally is conscious of her transgressions and thus finds redemption. I find that reason alone, as well as the entire film, worthy of the recognition that it deserves. Rent it with an open mind...
Rushmore (1998)
The Most Original Romantic Comedy In Many A Moon
Although the majority of the public have not responded well to this picture, I can sort of understand why. The way it's presented is unlike any other film I have seen. A lot of films have been "done before." Everything has been rehashed and recycled to the death. Which is why "Rushmore" is such a blessing. It doesn't seem to have a pace or a direction. It doesn't adhere to plot mechanics or oversentimentality. The film requires patience as well.
Those expecting to laugh-out-loud will be truly disappointed. The laughs are more subtle. As for the performances, Bill Murray is extraordinary. He puts a lot of pathos into his character, and his acting is so subdued that this puts this up there with one of his best performances. Jason Schwartzman is a revelation. He makes his character both likable and unlikable in almost the same scenes. This young man is the real deal. As are the filmmakers whose last film, "Bottle Rocket", wasn't nearly as good as "Rushmore".
I recommend it for those who want something entirely different, unconventional, and unfathomably original. One of the best films of the 90s.
The Thin Red Line (1998)
More Original Than Saving Private Ryan
Terrence Malick is one of the most original directors out there. True, this is only his 3rd film. But it really showcases his love for the unconventional narrative and inner monologues that work so well. In many ways, it's very Robert Altmanesque in the way he goes from character to character. Unlike Saving Private Ryan, Thin Red Line doesn't settle in cliche plot development and over-sentimentality. The characters and acting are far better. Sean Penn is still one of the finest actors of all time, and his subtleness is a welcome change of pace from the insanity he displayed in She's So Lovely. Nolte is brilliant as well. I think The Thin Red Line brings something new to the now tiresome war genre. It doesn't cop out from the darkness and brutality. Saving Private Ryan, although a very good film as well, is just Spielberg doing Spielberg with the exception of the battle scenes. In The Thin Red Line, Malick doesn't candy coat or present any flaws in this remarkable picture that, despite its slow pace, must be seen!
A Civil Action (1998)
Flawed, but very unconventional
Lately, there seems to be an increasing amount of courtroom dramas plaguing our theaters. John Grisham's films are as repetitive as they come. Only the acting stands out in the Grisham movies. A Civil Action is definitely better than something like The Gingerbread Man or The Chamber, but it still lacks emotional impact. There were riveting scenes, and Duvall is outstanding, but it missed a certain spark to keep me totally involved. All that aside, I liked this film for its unconventional presentation. The director also did a hugely underrated picture, Searching For Bobby Fisher. A Civil Action is not as good, but it's worth checking out to see some terrific performances and a mildly absorbing story.
The Faculty (1998)
Pure Escapism At Its Best
A lot of reviewers have been taking this film a bit too seriously. If you've seen the previews, you know what to expect. A bloody good time with a just a need for escapist entertainment. Is it a great film? No. It's just like Kevin Williamson (writer of Scream), got out his blender and threw in a bizarre potpourri of THE THING, INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS, THE BREAKFAST CLUB, and INVADERS FROM MARS. The audience I saw it with ate it up and walked out with smiles on their faces. This film is creepy, silly, off-the-wall and most of all- fun. It throws in some odd parables about conformity, which kinda disrupts the pace. Just don't walk in expecting a masterpiece, and you're 7 bucks will be justified.
Psycho (1998)
I give this film an F for Futility
There is no reason why this film exists! It's a horrid movie! Unwatchable, not suspenseful in the least. The entire cast and crew shot this film KNOWING the outcome of the infamous ending. Therefore, it was dull and lifeless. Vince Vaughn tried too hard and his giggling candy-corn eatin mouth was unbearable! What was so brilliant about Perkins' performance was the subtleness and restraint he had, and presented a creepiness unlike any other character in film history. What the heck was up with the gratuitous masturbation, pornography, and the split second images from a Nine Inch Nails video?! Gus Van Sant is an excellent filmmaker but I would rather watch Even Cowgirls Get The Blues than this trash. Please skip Psycho cause if it does monster box-office then we're likely to get a remake of Citizen Kane directed by Oliver Stone or something!