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Reviews
The Illusionist (2006)
A fresh and brilliant movie
An absolutely brilliant movie with an excellent performance by Paul Giamatti in the role of the detective. Passed over for the Oscar in many fantastic performances, Giamatti should finally receive the coveted gold statue for this characters role and his creativity to bring about not only his detective role into the realm of reality but also for truly bringing this movie to life. Many period piece movies often are left leaving the viewer only imagining what that period of time must have been like. Giamatti and Edward Norton's role in this film lend the viewer the opportunity to actually put yourself into the story and the year. Of his various characters Edward Norton during has played during his career, this one is by far his absolute best and most believable. He adds mystery and a sense of class to his character and gives an unimaginable performance that should by rights, land him an Oscar in this performance as well. Not to be forgotten, is Jessica Biel's role as the duchess and love interest of Norton's character as well as the soon to be king. In this film she steps away from the cutesy girl role that has, in my opinion, molded her into a medium grade actress at best. She and her character shine very notably in this role. In this place and time setting she travereses far beyond her previous roles and presents herself as a lady of character, substance and real depth in her acting. To give this film less than a 10 would be a crime when compared to such horrible actors such as Will Ferrel who receive accolades for shoddy dim-witted performances these days. This is a truly fresh and brilliant movie that compliments itself in it's ending.
The Pledge (2001)
Depressing, don't watch without Prozac
While Nicholson always gives 110% of himself in his roles, even he couldn't save this one. This by far is the most depressing and boring movie I've ever seen in my life. Not only is the scenery dull and uninteresting but it's not even enough to prop up the weak script. If this film doesn't leave you feeling hopeless, nothing will. From the start it's melancholy and barely keeps your interest but you do expect at least something to happen. As the story goes on you get inside the character and simply want to quit the role before the film finishes, yes it's truly that bad. Normally I'd never give any Jack Nicholson movie any less than a 7 but this one is so horrible I considered not even giving it a review but zero's on the scale are not an option. Save your time and money on this one and find something that's more entertaining AND interesting.
The Green Mile (1999)
Excellent performances, good story line, very predictable
While it was a good story and a well written script and memorable performances, the whole movie was extremely predictable from beginning to end. It left very little to the imagination how the characters would interact or develop through the story or how it would even end. Emotionally it was riveting as you could feel nothing but sympathy and appreciation for all but one character in the film. Even with that, it left me feeling very empty afterwords and was almost as depressing as "The Pledge" starring Jack Nicholson. It was overly hyped and not worthy in my own collection although others may feel differently. I appreciate much of Tom Hanks works but this movie and "Saving Private Ryan" are not believable characters for this actor. Who didn't know the character Percy would disappear?
Santana: Sacred Fire - Live in Mexico (1995)
Brilliant Performance by one of the great innovators of our day
A truly brilliant performance by Carlos and his band which show his guitar genius. While some criticize his collaborations with various other artists, it shows his versatility to mix with any and all types of music and his love of the music. The sound and video quality on this DVD is much better than most you see on the market today. Colorful as you would expect and versatile. This is another "must have" in any music collectors library. Great performances include "Oyo Como Va", "Open Invitation", "Soul Sacrifice" and of course "Europa". The DVD builds into a powerful crescendo which has made Carlos's Live Performances more than just memorable.
Peter Frampton: Live in Detroit (2000)
Superior Video and sound performance
An incredible performance by Peter Frampton and his band Live in Detroit Michigan. Many favorites including a few newer songs. The sound quality and video on this DVD is how ALL music DVD's should be produced. Superior quality and sound that makes this DVD a must have for any collector. Frampton's performance is spot on and exceptional. His rendition of "Do You Feel Like I Do" is even better than on his "Frampton Comes Alive" double album. Even the extras on this DVD are truly informative and interesting to any music aficionado. From beginning to end, Frampton clearly shows he hasn't lost his musical spark nor his guitar skills that made him infamous in the 70's and 80's.