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reactor69
Reviews
Ying xiong (2002)
Like Watching a Hair Commercial for 2 Hours
Absolutely the most overrated film of this decade. I love Asian cinema, but this film is the ultimate example of style over substance. Beautifully shot, no doubt. Well acted. Wonderful design. Each one of these aspects gets a point, for sure. But...for EVERY other aspect of the film, it is an absolute abomination. When you watch it, just keep track of how many slo mo shots there are with long black hair whipping around in the wind....without exaggeration, over one third of this film is in slow motion. Script, narrative (fight sequence...then actors literally explain for 5 minutes how to justify the next fight set piece...fight...ad nauseum)and execution of plot are amongst the WORST I have ever seen (and I'm 42 and an avid film attendee...) Avoid this garbage like the plague.
Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002)
Over-Rated and Under Baked
I address this review to readers who are not from Australia.
It concerns me, when on such a powerful internet movie database such as this, to see so many of us Aussies rambling on about the brilliance of this film. International users may take their high praises on board, rent / buy the film, and be very unsure in the future about giving Australian films a go in the future.
And we DO make some truly great films. It's just that this isn't one of them. It's not bad - but it COULD have been so much better.
Yes, the subject matter is a first, and way overdue. And performances across the board are solid. But all other aspects are extrememly pedestrian. Noyce (Director) has never been known for brilliance (here in Australia or in Hollywood). I suspect blame for the overall feeling of lack of journey (how ironic) one feels at conclusion of this film, rests firmly with him.
Don't believe the hysterical raves of most of the Aussies posting reviews here - sadly this film dumps any true impact or depth it could have achieved half way along the Rabbit Proof Fence.