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jake4974
Reviews
Dance Me Outside (1994)
A definite "hidden gem"
This qualifies as one of my favorite films. The opening scene is a film classic and sets the tone for the stereotype shattering, searingly funny, utter humanity that almost literally oozes from this film. Amazingly it achieved this without making me mildly nauseated. There are heaping helpings of truth in this movie, all of it not sugar-coated without descending in to excessive emotional manipulation (some degree of emotional manipulation is what the film medium is about). This film actually inspired a TV series in Canada, and launched the career of Adam Beach. There are several very sensitive issues dealt with in this movie, and quite masterfully. A very intelligent and funny film. I liked it so much, I bought the company, I mean, I give it a 10.
Dont Look Back (1967)
One of the quintessential rock-umentaries
It is my understanding this is one of the first, and in my opinion easily one of the best rock-umentaries ever made. This film is about, possibly the most brilliant and enigmatic pop icon in the last 100 years, during one of the bravest and most dynamic phases of his career. An absolutely wonderful film. I understand that every frame needed Dylan's approval before being released. I applaud him too, as this is not the most flattering portrayal I've ever seen. Actually at times he comes off as a genuine jerk, and I am a monstrous (bordering on irrational) Dylan fan. This is an honest look at a brilliant man, without descending into simple glorification or spin-doctoring. The film has the same sort of "this is how it is, take it or leave it" sensibility that I find Dylan to exemplify. An unrefined gem about an unrefined gem.
Man on Fire (2004)
Best movie I've seen in A LONG, LONG TIME.
This movie was brilliant. Every now and then, a really great director, a great cast, a great screenwriter come together and make some real movie magic. It doesn't happen at this level very often. I thought this film was almost flawless. I suppose like with everything, you could put it under a microscope and chop it to bits. I think that is the sign of a very poor film "critic". Films need to be judged on their own merit, and like in literature "suspension of disbelief" is critical. I usually find Tony Scott's flicks way over the top (and I love over the top). This really succeeded, not over the top, right at it. I thought it was great, both technically (the editing I found disorienting the first time that I watched it, but it's positively sublime) and emotionally. WOW!!! Not Academy material, but very much Academy Award worthy.
Now I'm going to make some people really angry. I think it is almost as good as DePalma's Scarface. Not as shocking, and Creasy doesn't swear. But a very honest and violent film made by a very passionate director, written by a genius, and starring a powerful leading man giving an unbelievable performance. The chemistry between Washington and Fanning is amazing. When she gives the St. Jude medallion to him...