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Reviews
Blade Runner (1982)
20 years later it's still the best...
Director's cut rules! It's been 20 years since this movie was made, and by far, it is still one of the best films ever. Wisely, no cheesy special effects were used, which could have dated the film. The wardrobe and architecture are a combination of the 1930's, 40's, 50's and beyond, which give it the timeless look that enables us to see the future. There is not one weak performance, and the casting was impeccable. The direction, the vision, the script, the soundtrack, art direction, and casting - all exemplary.
Other films have come after it, but this one set the bar so high it has yet to be surpassed.
A great short story, (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep, Phillip K. Dick), and a great film.
The Luzhin Defence (2000)
Long live the King.....!
The primary aspect of this film which most people miss is that Luhzin lives his life as a chess game. So many people have seen this film and just don't get it, and I don't understand why. While watching this film I was taken on a private journey which floored me. I will try to explain this without any spoilers, but be forewarned, I do talk about things that happen in the movie.
**** Possible Spoilers **** Be Forewarned!****
His is a life of "large moves" versus "small moves". He chooses Natalia to be his Queen, and he and she behave as his Aunt first described the King and Queen and their moves when she introduced him to chess as a boy. Listen closely to that description.
When someone asks him a question, he flashbacks to the past as if reviewing past moves. (The flashbacks are beautifully lit, by the way.) The flashbacks are quite interesting as well, for they give not only his point of view as a child, but the point of view of the other character as well. It's stunning.
Various characters become either his helpers or his enemies, pawns, bishops and knights, their actions enlightening you as to who's side they are on. Even their placement in a scene is pivotal to understanding what is going on. Beautifully done.
I will not comment more on what happens to the character of Luhzin, but I hope that this will illuminate what is actually happening at the end.
This film is constantly working on many levels, which is why I endorse it. It was a treat and a joy to watch.
If you like this film I would recommend a film called Fresh. The only way that these films are similar is the use of chess and the characters being treated as pieces.
Toy Story (1995)
The best film for small children....
My toddler has been watching this film for about 3 months, and I'm not sick of it and neither is she. It doesn't scare her, and it's teaching her about imagination, friendship, and kindness. All the performances are top notch, and the script is phenomenal. Any movie that has "Wind the Frog!" as a line , has to be a classic. The virtual world that has been created is remarkable in itself, but is equally partnered with a wonderful script. The song's compliment and impart in-depth character and plot points and Woody's personal journey is a lesson for all.
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
War is Hell.
Saving Private Ryan is a film which brings up many of the important questions regarding the morality of war. It doesn't try to answer any of them, but asks each individual to examine themselves, as so many died just so that we may live. Sizemore's and Hanks' performances are of Oscar caliber, as is the cinematography and direction. During the battle scenes Spielberg overexposes the film and cranks it at a different speed which effectively takes the viewer into the surrealism of battle. A truly wonderful piece of art, that doesn't fall into sentimentalism.