Reviews

I recently saw this movie after adoring Gene Kelly's musicals since I was a kid. It is quite a departure of what I'm used to seeing him in, but still wonderful. This is pretty standard fare for Natalie Wood, but it is a rare treat to see Gene Kelly in a dramatic role. After reading his biography, it is a sad irony that his character somewhat mirrored what was happening in Gene Kelly's personal life, in that his days of glory were something of the past. This is not the Gene Kelly you know, but if you want to see him in something different, take the phone off the hook, grab a box of Kleenex and sit down with Marjorie Morningstar. It will stay with you.

Come on, people. Just because this movie is a lone musical among today's movies does not make it a classic, does not make it original and DEFINITELY does not make it some deep piece of art. The story is beyond thin, the acting is ridiculous and the songs are a joke. I honestly don't know how the actors got this movie filmed. If I had been asked to sing those lousy arrangements I would've either fired my agent or died laughing. This movie is nowhere near the category of classics like The Wizard of Oz, The Sound of Music and others. Don't let it fool you. As for truth, beauty, freedom and love--none of those things existed for those hapless characters. The predictable ending was doomed from the start and we all knew it within the first 5 caffinated minutes.

Having read several books about Anne Frank and seeing the wonderful documentary, ANNE FRANK REMEMBERED, I was very curious about this film. I could not have been more impressed. The casting was excellent, and the acting superb, especially with Hannah Taylor-Gordon as Anne and the riveting presence of Ben Kingsley as Otto. Yes, it was difficult to watch and yes, it was not "entertaining" by definition. But if you want a very accurate portrayal of the before, during and after events of the group who inhabited the "secret annexe," you won't do better than this film. I'm sure it will be a treasure for years to come. Beware: Although it is an excellent educational tool, the last 45 minutes are quite intense and do include some brief nudity. Small children may find it too graphic.

As others have stated, this is not a great movie. There isn't symbolism and depth and great lessons about life. It is just the kind of light, amusing movie that doesn't strain your brain. Julia Roberts' star continues to shine. I personally think she is a very good actress. She makes it seem so effortless that the pendulum almost swings to the other side and makes it seem like she isn't acting at all, which lends itself to criticism. And for those who mentioned PRETTY WOMAN in their reviews, here is a newsflash--this isn't PRETTY WOMAN. Same stars, different movie--repeat that 5 times to yourself. Whatever your opinion, let RUNAWAY BRIDE stand on its own. It isn't as predictable as it seems it might be. For me, 7.5 stars out of 10.

No, it isn't Shakespeare, but Chances Are is a cute movie to enjoy. I have never been very impressed with Cybil Shepherd's acting ability (or lack thereof), but the real scene stealer is Robert Downey, Jr.. He has a very innocent way about him in this movie that shows you what a good actor he is as he realizes that he is stumbling into the home where he lived his past life.

There was so much hype preceding this show that I decided to tune in on its debut night. I'm glad I did! Thomas Cavanaugh is like a modern day Jimmy Stewart. His character knows that his looks alone aren't going to get the girl, but creativity, endurance and treating her better than anyone has before will get the job done. The whole ensemble works well together and you feel like you're watching real people. The last time I fell in love with a show this fast it was a little-known show called "Friends" 6 years ago. We know how that turned out!!

Yes, it is ridiculous--sometimes even stupid. Despite that, I've loved this movie since I saw it as a youth. Strange twists, funny lines and a stellar cast are the recipe for its success. Rarely will you find such an odd potpourri of people that go so well together!

I can always judge a movie by the feeling it leaves me once it is over. POLLYANNA sends you away with a light heart full of optimism and cheer that is all too rare in today's world. Yes, the ending is sad, but it is also hopeful. Another comment accused the film as being "another one of those Disney feel-good movies." What's wrong with that? We get enough reality with our everyday lives. This movie just provided me with 2 hours of pure joy that life sometimes has in short supply. Haley Mills' charming character unassumingly spreads some sunshine in a small town trapped under a cloud of gloom. How many of you feel that way sometimes? Watching this movie is just a nice way to bring some of that sunshine to your corner. Manufactured? Perhaps. But so what? When you're in the dark, you don't wait around for the sun to come up--you turn on the electric light!

This film was originally made to be shown at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building in Salt Lake City. With its sweeping camera angles and lovely soundtrack it was shown on a huge screen that went from floor to ceiling. The story chronicles a young girl named Eliza Williams and her family as they convert to the Mormon church and, along with other persecuted members of their faith, journey from New York to Utah over a number of years. For members of the Mormon church, it is lovely story of a fictional character intertwined with important figures in LDS church history, mainly Joseph Smith. For people who are not members of the Mormon church, it is a grand introduction to the prophet who, despite ridicule and numerous jailings which eventually lead to his death, never faltered in his testimony of God and the work that must be done to spread His message on the earth today. Nowadays, this film is mainly available at the libraries in buildings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

What a beautiful movie! Definitely one of the most visually breathtaking movies I have ever seen. The story is also wonderful. I wasn't sure how well Chow Yun Fat would portray the King (Yul Brynner is the definitive King in my mind) but he did an impressive job and recreated a difficult role to make it his own. Jodie Foster, as always, was brilliant and the supporting cast was excellent. Thumbs up from this very satisfied viewer!

I have been wanting to see this film for months, but I must admit I was hugely disappointed by it. I am not entirely familiar with Gilbert and Sullivan's works, but I know a good film and this was not one. Another reviewer referred to it as "clunky," which is an apt description.

I, like this other reviewer, was constantly looking at my watch. Luckily, watching it on video, I had the advantage of the fast forward button--which I used through several of the musical numbers. I consider myself very familiar with musical theater, but I know now why I have never felt the urge to see a Gilbert and Sullivan. Too many words, forgettable songs and thin storylines.

Funny, that sounds like a description of this painfully long film. Others may knock my opinion, but beware that corsets and top hats does not a great film make.

This movie was not what I expected, but it was still very enjoyable. It had plenty of funny moments (Muriel walking down the aisle to an ABBA song was priceless) but also several poignant scenes and characters that really made you think about the human condition. I could've done without some of the graphic language and sex scenes, but overall it was very good. Every character was working through their own set of problems and it made you see the many ways people handle trials in their lives--some are in total denial, some blame others, some live in a fantasy world and some face their problems head-on. Definitely a multi-dimensional movie that will have a lasting impression on most any viewer.

I have adored Gene Kelly ever since I saw Singin' in the Rain when I was about 10, but I had never seen Brigadoon until renting it a couple of days ago. Yes, the story is far-fetched--but somehow it works. Yes, the scenery looks like it is from a high school play, but I became too caught up in the story (yes, there IS a story) to care. In reading the other comments, I'm SO glad that the Keel/Grayson team wasn't used. Keel is too macho and gruff and Grayson is too sugary. I think Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse gave their characters the necessary gentility and earthiness. My only complaint is that I wish the director let the viewer linger with the closing scene for a few more seconds. It ends a little too abruptly and with a few unanswered questions about Van Johnson's character. Despite that, it was very enjoyable and even ponders some deep points, especially in the line "Sometimes things you have faith in become more real to you than the things you can see and touch." Watch it with a light heart and you won't be disappointed.

I went into this movie with very low expectations. The commercials made it look goofy and mildly blasphemous for all church-goers. All of my hesitations disappeared as soon as the movie started. It was very cute and showed some very human emotions that--I'm guessing--men of the cloth experience. Although there is no way you can convince me that Jenna Elfman is a high-powered executive, she was charming. I was most impressed with Edward Norton as Father Brian. His acting is done so naturally that it is hard to believe he's speaking from a script. My favorite line? When the Indian bartender with Jewish in laws says, "I'm a bartender. I don't do penance--I do shots." Enjoyable!

I'll probably be bashed for saying this, but I didn't think the Sixth Sense was that much to scream about (no pun intended). A friend of mine had already told me the ending, but there were so many obvious hints along the way that any observant person would figure it out anyway. After about 20 minutes I found myself wondering when it would be over. Granted, little Haley Joel Osment gives a great performance for a child his age. You really feel the weight of his anguish. But after a while, even his big scary eyes and frightened whisper became too repetitive. The slow pace was just that: slow. It wasn't that suspenseful and certainly not Oscar-worthy like a Hitchcock film. Treat yourself to a well-rounded suspense film like Rebecca and leave Sixth Sense on the shelf.

As someone who has seen Les Miserables live, I want to say what a treat it is to own this video. With the exception of elaborate sets, this video is the closest you can get without paying for a theater ticket. In some ways it is even better, because they've gathered the best talent to perform. Seeing the intense Colm Wilkenson, the fabulous Michael Ball and the emotional Lea Salonga all together is a singular experience. What am I saying? The entire cast is terrific! However, I must add a sidenote: Les Miz was not written by Andrew Lloyd Webber, as I read on one of the other reviews. It was written by Alain Boubil and Claude-Michel Schonberg. Please give credit where credit is due! And please treat yourself to the fantastic experience of watching this video! Enjoy!

I have never enjoyed The Nanny, but I'm a fan of Timothy Dalton. It seems inconceivable that any casting director thought to put these two actors together, but, by some warped cosmic thing, it kind of worked in this movie. Granted, the script is predictable and borrows angles from classics from The King and I, Sound of Music and even I Love Lucy. Yet, when I want to watch something brainless and lighthearted (admit it--we all have those moments) I'll opt for this movie.

This is a fantastic movie that proves that dreams can come true with faith in yourself and endless perseverance. The obstacles Homer Hickam faces throughout the journey to his dream are numerous and he still never gives up.

The movie reminds me a lot of RUDY, with Sean Astin, down to the coal-mining towns where these incredible young men came from.

Watch it--you'll believe that you, too, can do anything.

This is a fantastic movie that proves that dreams can come true with faith in yourself and endless perseverance. This obstacles Homer Hickam faces throughout his journey to his dream are numerous and he never gives up.

The movie reminds me a lot of RUDY, with Sean Astin, down to the coal-mining towns where these incredible young men came from.

Watch it--you'll believe that you, too, can do anything.

Don't be fooled and don't waste your time. This movie was SOOO bad that I don't even want to waste time writing about it. This is only a warning to others not to see it unless you enjoy bad writing, blood and a full-on loony as the main character. Peter Boyle and Scott Cohen are too fine of actors to put their energies into such a pathetic film. What were they thinking?

Yes, I'm a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Friends, but when I want to see gritty drama I am never disappointed by ER and The Practice. And, frankly, The Practice is slowly leaving all of those other shows in dust.

Sure, the incidents that happen on the show are a little "out there," but the characters are very realistic. They are human and don't hide their human frailties. Their fears and mistakes and questions about their personal lives and careers are questions we all ask ourselves. Oh, yes, and they are beautiful to look at--although you often get so consumed by the storyline that you forget that--but it is a nice little "icing on the cake" about the show.

Watch it and you won't be disappointed or feel like you can't understand the "legalese" in the courtroom scenes. In fact, one of the reasons I like it most is because it makes me feel more intelligent--which is always a nice boost!

I've always wanted to see this movie because of the legendary actors associated with it and yesterday I finally rented it. I can't say it is an entertaining movie, but it is certainly profound and stays with you.

Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe and Montgomery Clift were all wonderful. There is something extra poignant about the casting of these three actors. It is like "misfits" playing misfits. Knowing that it is Clark Gable's and Marilyn Monroe's last film added to the aura of finality at the end. Marilyn Monroe definitely does not get the credit she deserves as the fine actress she was. Even her character is trying to get beyond the external first impression she makes on men.

It is the first film I've seen of Montgomery Clift's. What a fine actor! He brought enormous depth to his character--much of which was portrayed without speaking.

Once again, if you're looking for an entertaining film, you may be disappointed. If you're looking for an interesting blend of characters who, in many ways, are mirrors of the actors playing them, then rent the Misfits. It is packed with stars but not with glitzy star quality, just no-holds-barred, uninhibited acting.

I use the term "film" instead of "movie," because it is a word that does more justice to this great artistic work. It has everything: action, suspense, romance and tears. It also makes you see fire as a living, breathing thing and makes you gain new appreciation for the millions of men and women who fight it every day. See it! You won't be disappointed.