jpm610 Reviews

Latter Days (2003)

Very poignant and romantic. Non-traditionally of course.

[7/10 · 2 January 2006]

HIGHS--

Solid performances from two breakthrough actors -- Wes Ramsey and Steve Sandvoss. A decent script, really too. Although most of the restaurant scenes are campy, the dialog between all characters is realistic. And for the most part, so is the film's pace.

LOWS--

A gay film without any memorable music? Seems like a paradox but here we have it. Oh well. Maybe I have some trouble believing, Aaron's parents, though they are of a more rigid system, would subject their son to "shock therapy" as shown in the flashbacks. I suppose I'm just hoping there are no pockets in culture in this country that are still that out of touch with reality.

PARTING IMPRESSION--

If you have a reasonably open mind, this can be enjoyable. Somewhat sappy with a penchant for the melodramatic toward the end, but that being said two fine actors make it worth your while. Seven out of ten.

Batman Begins (2005)

Great entertainment. Thoughtful and respectful to the original comic.

[7/10 · 2 January 2006]

HIGHS--

The cast for one. Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, Gary Oldman and Liam Neeson. These are all power hitters and all in perfect place. Fantastic script. Very well thought-out which is rare in "popcorn"-type flicks. Hans Zimmer's pulsating score adds a new dimension of fun to the mix.

LOWS--

Katie Holmes, stay with Dawson. With those chops you don't belong in cinema, you belong in a magazine ad.

PARTING IMPRESSION--

A very fun film whether you're a dedicated or sometimes comic fan. Keep in mind it is a fantasy romp. But sit back and enjoy. Seven out of ten.

Affliction (1997)

Haunting and disturbing

[7/10 · 30 December 2005]

HIGHS--

What a basket full of acting desserts. Nick Nolte, James Coburn and Sissy Spacek in a cold and bleak New Hampshire landscape, all moved and disturbed in their own destinies. A well-deserved Oscar for Coburn. To die for writing. You feel the pain and humanity of each character. Schrader's direction is on the mark.

LOWS--

Without spoiling the end, would liked to have seen a fuller resolution to things. I guess I just need more closure after having invested so much empathy in these characters. After all this film is solely about character development.

PARTING IMPRESSION--

If you're in the mood to be depressed (and I think we all are once in a while), this is the ticket. A fabulous drawn out scream against how misaligned life can go and the things we might do in our attempts to redirect it. Possibly Nick Nolte's very best performance. Seven out of ten.

Absolute Power (1997)

Absolutely enticing

[7/10 · 30 December 2005]

HIGHS--

A very fun plot. Gene Hackman could vilify Ghandi given the right lines. Clint Eastwood as a high-stakes jewel thief?? I'm in heaven. Soft, subtle score; typical of modern Eastwood films. Intense finale that has you rooting for the bad guys, or is it the good guys?? You decide. E. G. Marshall's version of a scorned billionaire is a wonderful turn.

LOWS--

I have not read Baldacci's novel this is based upon. But I have to think, Clint Eastwood was not who he had in mind for the elusive cat burglar Luther Whitney. That casting was probably a little too self-serving. Also, I did enjoy the plot. But maybe a touch of more believability would have been nice. The murder scene at the beginning, while necessary for the remainder, may be a touch too implausible for my taste.

PARTING IMPRESSION--

Solid entertainment. This rating denotes that. Sure, won't win any Oscars, but that's not why you really want to see a film like this. We all root for these high stakes take-the-money-and-run type finales and here we are satiated in the chicanery, the likes of which could only emanate from D.C. Seven out of ten.

Angels in America (2003)

A long labor of love.

[7/10 · 30 December 2005]

HIGHS--

Wonderful adaptation, lovely and accommodating score by James Newton Howard. Strong performances from Al Pacino and Patrick Wilson especially.

LOWS--

Strange costume design. I'm not sure how well all of Kushner's words translate to the big screen. Maybe some (i said "some") of the cinematography should be included in that critique. Editing. 352 minutes?? Are you supposed to have two intermissions in a film, only kidding.

PARTING IMPRESSION--

Most viewers will not view 6 hours at a time so expect to see it in segments. Though I love an epic as much as anyone, not sure every scene was necessary. Overall a worthy screening, but I have to say, the gay-dying-of-aids scene/plot is likely starting to wear thin on viewers of all perspectives. I realize Tony Kushner penned this well before "Philadelphia", "And the Band Played On" and others were released. Still, it should be mentioned... More to filmmakers than film buffs. A moving, passionate story. Al Pacino is riveting and a delight to watch. Booo-yah. Seven out of ten.