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Reviews
Brothel (2008)
Complicated, confusing, but eventually mildly satisfying
"The Brothel" is a confusing film, a taste of which we get in the very first scene. I had trouble choosing a rating for the film, just as I had trouble sticking it out to watch through the whole length of it. I'm glad that I did stick it out in the end, even though I find the overall work only mildly satisfying.
Approach "The Brothel" in expectation of beautiful period costumes and sets, characters who are intriguing even if perhaps needlessly opaque for much of the film, yes some beautiful bodies (of both genders) and a bit of sex. Ultimately the film reaches a resolution which does make some sense and does provide a sense of closure to the viewer and for the characters. Suspend your disbelief while on the ride. Enjoy its individual pieces as it passes over and maybe a little bit through you.
Many viewers will feel that the payoff is insufficient to the cost of viewing through the whole film. I'm - just barely - not one of them, and did enjoy the film, having reached the end. If you turn this film off in the middle, then your time will have been wasted. If you reach the end, then I hope that you will be satisfied, just enough, as I was.
Just Visiting (2001)
Lightweight, very funny
It's definitely not high theatre.. but then, not everything must be. "Just Visiting" was funny, did not have the expected campy ending, and actually put Christina Applegate in a good light as an actress. I wasn't expecting much, and I got a pleasant surprise.
The Haunting (1999)
Not scary, but very entertaining
I have not seen the original, and I am not much of a horror film fan. The Haunting (1999) does not work as a horror film. Rather, it works well as a light comedy with a few cool action scenes. I went in to the film expecting something empty and poorly done, and I came out of the film having been well entertained by something the played like the tales I read each month in Fantasy & Science Fiction magazine, and having been very well done. The viewer is left uncertain whether the happenings at Hill House are real or imaginary until very late in the movie.. and I'm not going to spoil for you which the case is!
Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
Technically brilliant, empty of feeling
Eyes Wide Shut is a masterpiece of cinematography and of marketing.. and unfortunately fails to deliver on any of the hype.
The movie is not erotic at all, nor even sexy. It is beautifully filmed, well acted, and contains magnificent sets and costumes. It is very long.. but makes good use of the lengthy pauses in action, putting enough real life around the action to make the viewer more a part of the scene. Missing here are the all too common jarring transitions of scene.
Unfortunately, also missing here is anything to make the viewer care for any of the characters. Motivations, and especially depth, are nearly completely absent from any of the players. Myriad possible themes are opened.. with few explored much.. and with no conclusions offered. No, we do not want a film to spoon feed us a conclusion.. but this film makes no comment, and leaves its explorations so vague as to leave the viewer uncertain even in which directions to contemplate.
If you are in the mood for a visually sumptuous film, and are prepared to find no other content, then consider this film. Otherwise, save your time and money.
Safe House (1998)
Well done, poignant, deep, and something for all at all levels
From the capsule review of this film, I wouldn't have chosen it at first.. but having seen it more or less by accident (I caught the start unexpectedly, and within minutes was hooked), I would strongly recommend it. It is very well done, with a poignant story line about Alzheimers disease, couched in an action/mystery setting, with just a hint of romance, and just scattered bits of very well placed subtle humor. Patrick Stewart does a magnificent job playing the several facets of his character, and Kimberly Williams provides a strong performance. The ending takes one by surprise, and is complete, so it does not leave one dangling.
I'm very glad that I saw this film - it really affected me.