smoothtooth Reviews

Other Space (2015)

Best thing for turning off the brain and enjoying silliness

[8/10 · 25 August 2015]

I watched this without reading any reviews first. I came to IMDb to check out the actor's profiles. After reading some of the negative comments, I felt I should awake out of hibernation to add my take. This show hit the spot for me. This is super light and enjoyable fluff, and should only be taken as such. It is screwball irony. The self-deprecating style of the characters is intentional, and I could see how this would be construed as bad acting. In short, I found it fun and want to see more. I hope they make a few seasons of this show -- slowly becoming more and more ridiculous as they go along. It's refreshing to see an American show that doesn't take itself so seriously.

The Man from Earth (2007)

Better than most indie films out there

[7/10 · 7 November 2007]

Although I had the luxury of skipping over a few minutes of the movie, here and there, I was left feeling this was a grade above the average independent venture we are so used to getting. First of all, the acting was above-par for the obviously tiny budget this project was put together with. I was impressed with a few pro-like pans and close-ups by the cinematographer, and the scene transitions were also quite smooth for the most part. The dialog didn't appear too forced and at times transparently natural. It was enjoyable to watch and I found myself wanting to see it through to the end. This is much more than I can say for a lot of other low-budget flicks out there.

On the flip-side, however, was the soundtrack. Other than a small classical interlude played by one of the characters, the viewers must endure a very amateurish performance by whoever that is playing their synthesizer in front of their computer with cheap software. I know these guys don't have the cash to afford the top names in composition, but the music was too often distracting. I found myself focusing on the cheap soft-synths when I should be listening to the excellent banter between the actors.

I hate to be so picky when the producers had so little resources, but for the average viewer this might be not the favorite rental DVD. I would recommend it to anyone who is tired of cliché science-fiction and is looking for a stimulating mind-probe. However, don't expect to have your world-view shaken as some other reviewers seem to have experienced.

The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi (2003)

Gouging, spurting, slicing and dicing.

[24 March 2004]

A little over the top. However, there are a few nice surprises among the squirting fake blood, hammy acting and contrived scenes. I expected a more professional take on the original Zatoichi storyline. Perhaps less manga and more historical accuracy might have made this a classic. I suggest another trip to the editing room. Having said that, it's good old-fashioned entertainment not unlike the samurai dramas that are played on Japanese TV every afternoon. Good verses evil; simple country folks against the powers that be; one against the multitude. 5 out of 10.

Feedback (2002)

Great for a homemade movie

[1/10 · 29 January 2004]

But otherwise, it really can't hold a candle to what's out there. It's obviously a college project. I would not recommend wasting your time, and ESPECIALLY your money. Poor acting, shoddy direction and cinematography (I shouldn't even call it that.) However, the one thing it has going for it is an interesting concept. Good idea, too bad, so sad.

Solaris (2002)

Substance, not eye-candy

[8/10 · 29 January 2004]

Psychological brain twister. This movie will mess you up if you have been properly chilled. Emotions are tweaked, and information is given only on a need-to-know basis. George Clooney gives a above-average performance, yet nothing super special. If you love science fiction, you'll enjoy this. Blockbuster-lovers best leave it on the shelf.

Loco Love (2003)

Mi Crapa es Su Crapa

[1/10 · 19 October 2003]

Poor cast, predictable story, bad audio, horrible wardrobe, appalling direction...it could not stink more. My eight-year-old son can do better with a cheap video camera. Avoid this turkey at all costs.

Major pet peeves: everyone mumbles and the stupid annoying fake moustache.

The Man Who Knew Too Little (1997)

Ha!

[8/10 · 19 October 2003]

Saw this when it first came out, and now the second time as a free rental. Both times were funny. The important thing to do is not expect a "serious" or probable comedy. This is screwball slapstick at it's classic peak, edited to the tune of 60's spy B-flicks. Great way to pick up your spirits and not take life so seriously.

The Hole (2001)

Leap from reality, but sharp entertainment

[5/10 · 26 March 2003]

Apt title for a plot containing many of them. At the beginning of this film, I began to get excited as it held my interest with gorgeous framing, crisp images and great soundtrack. However, (as usual) the plot began to leave our universe of believability with dumb and insulting developments. Even a High School student could tell you the police don't work that way. Oh well, if your brain's asleep, this could be great entertainment. For me, it evoked the, "Awww, c'mon!" reflex more than once.

**A slight hint of a spoiler**

Having stated that, there are a few cool foreshadowing scenes that show the director's potential: one of which is the throwing up portions. Watch how they connect.