stirlingwarrior Reviews

The Life and Death of Peter Sellers (2004)

I wanted to like this film, but

[5/10 · 16 December 2004]

Peter Sellers is without question one the greatest comical geniuses of not just the 20th Century, but of all time. Rush's portrayal of Sellers is brilliant, a man whose true self was as transparent of one his many character creations. For those seaking an "A&E Biography Channel" type film will be sorely disappointed as was I. I wasn't prepared for this alternative packaging of the material. I've seen it twice an am afraid it will be a third viewing before I am truly able to grasp it's full meaning. In as well crafted a movie can be, the camera work, set decoration, period computer enhancements to better reflect the era, all work together in producing a beautiful piece of cinematic eye candy. So much so that is takes away from the story to be told. If trying to show this tragic human bankruptcy, mortgaged in a quest for fame and fortune, then the producers did a fine job.

One doesn't know whether to love or hate Sellers. It's not hard to understand why those close to the man disapprove of this film's tone. In a mad-cap dash that gallops all over the globe, in and out of the arms of the world's most beautiful women, we see a man consumed with lust and how the condition can drive men obscenely crazy. For a unique look at the life of Peter Sellers, one can't go wrong by watching this movie.

The Sissy Duckling (1999 TV Movie)

What was the point?

[3/10 · 9 June 2004]

I saw this by accident one lazy summer afternoon. It was playing on the family programming channel of HBO. At first I was drawn in, by what I thought was a Disney animation. But then, after a few minutes, I found myself searching for the remote, so I could find the 'INFO BUTTON', to find out what in the world was on my TV. I have nothing against Harvey F., I enjoy him in many of his films, but one thing he is not, is a voice-over artist. Sure he has one of the more unique voices in Hollywood, but it works only as a part of a bigger visual package. Attaching his voice to a cute duck made watching somewhat difficult. As for the rest of the cast, uninspired. I suppose working on this film didn't appeal to the really good voice over talent out there.

So, weak voice talent, strong animation...who was this film targeting? Gay adolescent ducks? I don't get it. Is there really such a dearth of role-models for young up and coming homosexuals, that we must resort to animated ducks? Cute story, and like the title, this movie I found hard to love, just like an ugly duckling.

The Turandot Project (2000)

Spectacular

[8/10 · 9 March 2004]

One does not need to necessarily be a fan of Opera to thouroughly enjoy and taken in by this film. The massive undertaking; bringing the classic Puccini Opera Turandot from Florence to Bejing is not as easy as it sounds! (And language while the obvious answer, is only the tip of the iceberg.)Over nine hundred members, and three principal casts, added to an unsettled, and fragile 600 year-old outdoor venue produce unique situations that must be worked out. The head spins as language transitions from Chinese to Italian to English to German, it's a divine miracle that the opening night went off without a hitch, in fact, it was brilliant. (Albeit, the public dress rehearsal was unfortunately rained out.) The camera work is comprehensive, without being intrusive, one feels as if they are one of the crew. I was overtaken by legitimate goose bumps as challenges were overcome, as if that was the way it's always been. Spectacular color, angelic voices, and a delicious mix of Chinese and Italian cultures make this fine documentary a must see!