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Reviews
The Illustrated Mum (2003)
A Big Disappointment To The Book
I have given this such a low rating as, in my opinion, it is a very poor adaptation of the book by Jacqueline Wilson. It had the potential to be extremely powerful, and yet it feels as if the whole thing is rushed. The actors used are OK but they do not seem quite 'right' for the parts. A lot is left out that I believe makes the book more moving - for example Dolphin's experience in the foster home and her early relationship with her father. I was so disappointed with this adaptation but I forced myself to watch to the end in the hope that it would get better, and it didn't. If you're a fan of easy-watching dramas then go ahead and watch this and you may like it, but if you have read the book and are hoping for a fantastic drama adaptation then give this a miss - it is just a massive disappointment.
Pleasureland (2003)
I think Thirteen is better
I remember seeing this on Channel 4. I agree that it is similar to Thirteen - except it has more explicit scenes of sex. I think Thirteen just beats this, as Thirteen features a great cast and a strong relationship between mother and daughter - we don't see that between Jo and her Mum. The soundtrack to this programme can be a bit random - it changes songs every 2 seconds. I also remember thinking how strange it was that Jo's mum flips when she gets her bellybutton piercing - I got mine pierced at 12. It's very scary how Jo's character changes from being very sweet and innocent to scary and dominating. if you look at her when she is all made up and then at her former friend Katie, it's impossible to believe that they are the same age. Overall, a good film. Worth taping and watching again some time. It shows perfectly how growing up can be gritty and painful, and can threaten your relationships with all the people around you.
American Pie (1999)
Great Movie!
I really enjoyed this movie. I agree it is side-splittingly funny, though there are some more tender moments - etc when Kevin and Vicky first sleep together. The song' Sway' by Bic Runga is a perfect accompanying song to this moment. The entire soundtrack to this movie is great, I haven't bought it...yet. I also enjoyed how the film ended with Vicky becoming more independent and practical when she realised it wasn't going to work with Kevin - strong woman! It was also good how Oz remains a virgin, proving that this wasn't just about guys getting laid - there were also tender emotions and heart-felt feelings in there. This has everything - comedy, teenage romance, cute guys and girls...I really recommend seeing it!
This Boy's Life (1993)
Unmissable!
This is one of my favourite movies of all time. There is superb acting from all concerned - and DeNero is very hated in his role as an abusive, insecure husband and stepfather. DiCaprio plays his role as Tobias Wolff very well indeed, it is excellent how he switches from being the 'know-it-all' bad boy to a young teen desperate to make something of his life. The script is well written, with deep sympathy created for 'Jack' and his mother, and a hope that they will success in their search for happiness. As emotional and dark as this is, there is also some light-hearted comic relief, including a chance to see DiCaprio howling to some music of the era! 5 *****, recommended for a person who wishes to see DiCaprio and DeNero in what could possible be the finest roles of their careers.
Walking the Tracks: The Summer of Stand by Me (2000)
Very good!
I also found this on my Special Edition DVD of Stand By Me. I found it very interesting and it was wonderful to see some of the actors now older. What I particularly enjoyed was director Rob Reiner talking about how he picked the actors who were most close to their roles. The whole documentary is blighted by the tragic death of River Phoenix in 1993. The footage slows to black and white and the actors talk about how he was going to be something. A tear will be shed when Corey Feldman measures a tiny distance with his thumb and forefinger and claims he was "This close to saving him" Of course Phoenix buckled to the pressure of using hard drugs in the early 90s and it is for this fantastic movie that he is remembered.