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Reviews
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
Better than most
This film was far better than most of the large-scale action/dramas that come out this time of year. It was engaging, but it was somewhat inconsistent and its flow was at times diverted and came to a near standstill. Russell Crowe's performance was excellent, certainly one of his best. The story was well-executed. However, something was ultimately lacking in the film, attention to a larger purpose or goal, that made the sailors' sacrifices worthwhile and would have given them greater significance.
Reckless (1997)
don't bother
Don't bother trying to watch this terrible mini series. It is a six hour bore, an unbelievable love triangle between three people who have absolutely no chemistry for each other. There is no heat in this story, no real passion, no real romance. It is a dry, boring, drawn out, and uninspired as they come. And it doesn't even meet the expected level of technical proficiency. Take those six hours of your life and use them for something more worthwhile.
Valmont (1989)
terrible waste
What a waste! One of the most fascinating books in French literature was put to terrible misuse in this awful adaptation. While the actors do their best with the material, and deserve commendation for it, there is simply no excuse for this movie. The wonderful, textured story of Laclos' novel is completely lost, and indeed, changed. The film creates an entirely new ending, undermining the point Laclos was making about people who play with other people's lives. This film entirely misses its mark. Don't bother watching it--all the talented actors have been in better. Watch Dangerous Liaisons instead, and be glad you didn't waste your time on this one.
Velvet Goldmine (1998)
simply gorgeous, darling
This is the most amazing, beautiful film I have ever seen. And I'm a film student--all I do is watch movies. This movie is visually daring, with fascinating characters and amazing acting. If you allow it to, it can transport you to a different world, where glitter makeup and glam rock rule. I first saw this movie in 1998, not long after it came out. After that first viewing, I knew I had seen something amazing, but it was all too much information to process at once. I decided I had to see it again, but it wasn't until this summer (2002) that I finally gave it the attention it deserves. I watched it in amazement, for it is truly phenomenal. It is a gorgeous film, one that demands to be watched over and over, and one that I know will inform and inspire my work for years to come.