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cynweiss
Reviews
Maria Full of Grace (2004)
Definitely Worth Seeing
I saw this movie awhile back and really enjoyed it. I had read a decent review, so I took the plunge. It was very well acted and some of the scenes were really hard to take. I was totally engrossed by the main character. It's refreshing to see a female lead who is strong and intelligent (even though she does get involved in the drug smuggling).
This is a movie I would highly recommend. Be forewarned, though, there are a few uncomfortable and disturbing moments - but they are handled very well. Overall, though, I thought the movie was far less disturbing than I was expecting. The subject matter was handled very professionally and with great skill.
I really felt like I knew the characters and could sympathize with their situations. I found myself feeling panicked and anxious on several occasions, and I was thoroughly engrossed by the whole story.
Master of the Game (2002)
Best Movie I've Seen All Year
I really didn't know what to expect going into the theater. I had read a review by Chris Gore and thought I'd give it a shot. Well, I'm so glad I did. I was riveted from the start. The slow reveal of a Jewish prisoner at the start of the film was visually stunning - it punctuated the theme that just one person can make a difference.
I am the type of person who gets distracted easily, but I can honestly say I lost total track of time watching this movie. I was totally drawn in by the "game," an intellectual game of cat and mouse. The superb direction keeps the tensions high, and even though most of the film occurs in one cabin, there is never a dull moment - both visually and storywise.
I would highly recommend this movie. It was beautifully shot and directed. The acting was great and the characters were all compelling. One other note - the music was both haunting and passionate. I would love to own the soundtrack.
This is by far the best movie I've seen all year. It really made me do a lot of thinking. I know that a movie has really done its job when I'm still thinking about it days later. I've been so frustrated with all the much-hyped Hollywood pictures this year, that this was a totally refreshing and rewarding experience.