Change Your Image
oba-1
Reviews
Intoxicating (2003)
depressing but real
Let me start by saying I am not a fan of "down and out stories" (ie I didn't care for Leaving Las Vegas). This one is certainly a down and out story with a twist. That being the substance abuser in this film is a surgeon. Which is quite a scary thought. I scored the film an "eight" largely because of the incredibly realistic portrayal of the surgeon by the lead actor. Also, enjoyed Eric Roberts being subtle for change. Kinda like in his glory days. This film reminds me of how terrific an actor he is. The film could have been better with different set of lead actresses. Not that they were bad just not anywhere near the level of the lead actor or other members of the cast. Not for everyone but I would recommend giving the film a look. If not just to make you wary of being under a surgeon's care.
25th Hour (2002)
Dig it
I loved every moment of this film. Spike and Edward Norton's are masters of their crafts. It is rare a film that captures so much of NYC in one film. Many perspectives all at once. Spike is clearly not just an important African American voice - he has grown to be clearly an important American voice. Possibly our most important. I was sure their must have been something wrong with this film when Oscar didn't shine on it (I hadn't seen it to that point). How this film was missed I will never understand. The performances of all where nuanced and heart felt. The camera direction was classic. None of the wasted moves of the modern "Music Video" driven director. Every shot meant something (can't remember many films the last couple of years I can say that about). The score was also a surprise. I expected a street cred kind of theme and instead it rang of Taxi Driver and the classics. Long live Spike.