KMM Reviews

The Passion of the Christ (2004)

An Amazing Experience

[10/10 · 8 March 2004]

Having watched The Passion of The Christ a few times in theaters now, I can only say that it has been a spectacular cinematic experience. I would have liked to have seen more done with the Resurrection, but the film was still very powerful. As I was done watching the film, I was emotionally drained, yet spiritually filled, as I knew what that brief moment on film (the Resurrection) meant to me personally as a Christian. The movie takes God's truth from Scripture and puts it right in your face. I commend Mel Gibson for having the courage to show on screen what Christians already know when Christ died on the cross for all of us…Satan had lost the battle; truth and love prevailed! This movie was a portrayal of exactly what it was: good versus evil.

I know no motion picture can truly capture what Christ went through for us as sinners, but as I watched the scourging scenes and His walk to Calvary, I was deeply moved to tears on numerous occasions. The imagery of what occurred onscreen had a profound and humbling effect on me. I have read many reactions to the film by other Christians and I feel the following from another person online describes best how I felt about the viewing experience:

`I can't tell you how the movie will affect you, any more than I can tell you what God's plan is for your life. If you have rejected Him, you may see yourself in the mob. If you have denied Him, you may see yourself in Peter. If you have made fun of Him, you may see yourself in the Roman soldiers. If you have allowed Him to save you from your sinful life, you may see yourself in Mary Magdalene.'

If you have studied Scripture (not just read it, but studied it) then you will understand that this movie is by no means anti-Semitic, as many reviewers of the film have felt after viewing it. All I can say is that you either get the message of the Scripture, or you don't. Sure, Jesus Christ could have prevented all the suffering he endured before it even started, but as mentioned in Scripture and in the movie at the Garden of Gethsemane, this was part of a bigger plan that was meant to happen because of God's will and love for ALL of us. Christ underwent great agony as he accepted God's will knowing that great betrayal and suffering were to come shortly thereafter.

As is the case with many other films, The Passion of The Christ will affect different people in different ways. Most Christians will watch the film and understand why, for the context of the film, there will be a lot of violence. The title of the film alone tells it all. The Passion, or suffering, of The Christ. As I watched the film all I could think about was what really went on 2000 years ago in Jerusalem. I understood that the person on screen was not the actual Christ, but the dialogue and visual imagery onscreen reminded me of what went on as Christ staggered and struggled to Golgotha to be crucified. Even in his most agonizing moments all he could think about was love and forgiveness towards his enemies; moments, which were further supported by the flashbacks to earlier times among his Apostles and followers. This is the message I got from the film, not hate the Jews or anything else. It amazes me how people can watch this film and not understand that this was what Mel Gibson was trying to get across to his audience. It was clear as day to me. Why not to so many others.

The main performers in the film, especially Jim Caviezel (Jesus) gave outstanding performances, as did Maia Morgenstern as Mary and Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalene. Another moving thing about the film was the musical score, which was timeless and beautiful. It definitely helped make the film that much more powerful. Also, viewing the film in Aramaic and Latin added to the mood and setting giving it an almost documentary like feeling as the film progressed.

As was the case in other testimonials I have read about the film, the audience I was with sat in stunned silence as the credits rolled, and then one by one began to quietly leave. I believe it was because many who watch this movie will see a little bit of themselves in each character. I know I did. Please watch the movie as soon as you can.

John 3:16

The Monkees (1965–1968)

TV Show That Never Gets Old

[8 March 2004]

I have enjoyed watching this show for years since I first saw it in syndication on local television back in the late 1970s. From the first time I watched The Monkees I was hooked and have watched the show ever since. Whenever it would be shown over the years I was there to watch it, including the revival in popularity that arose in 1986 when MTV ran a Monkees marathon that exposed their antics to a new generation of fans. The show had a great zaniness that blended a unique mixture of music and comedy, which made the show a delight for me. As a kid I enjoyed the entertaining plots and thought it would be cool to hang around with these 4 guys. I did, though, always look forward to the musical numbers that occurred in each episode.

The music on the show was what really appealed to me and made me a fan in the beginning. Their albums from the 60s still make up part of my music collection. The show was never that popular when it was originally airing on commercial television, but the music really helped push the popularity of the band giving The Monkees a cult-like status similar to The Beatles at the time. I especially like the music of Michael Nesmith. The songs that appeared in the show by Nez were most appealing to me and this carried over to his solo career as well. Another thing that was a great part of the show was the comic timing of Mickey Dolenz. He always cracks me up with his wacky style of voices and improvisation. All four were talented in their own way, but Mickey Dolenz was the funniest to me.

It is still one of my all time favorite shows and has left a lasting impression on me that will stay with me my whole life. One of the more memorable shows was the parody of Faust called The Devil and Peter Tork. It had some seriousness, but that helped the comedy to play. Some episodes played out better than others with the second season being a little more reflective of the 60s culture that was growing popular during that period in America.

Was it a TV show? Was it a rock n' roll group? It was neither, and it was a little of both. Mickey Dolenz equated their becoming a group to Leonard Nimoy becoming a Vulcan. No matter what you believe, we can all agree that The Monkees, although brief in its original run, was about a group that did play, that did perform their own music and the way they did it left an impact on generations both young and old and will do so for years to come.

Under Pressure: Making 'the Abyss' (1993 Video)

An Amazing Effort

[9/10 · 1 March 2004]

This is one of the best motion picture documentaries I have ever watched. It is right up there with Hearts of Darkness, the documentary about the making of Apocalypse Now. James Cameron opens the documentary by talking about something he feels is cold, dark and made up of unrelenting pressure: the movie business. The documentary really gives the viewer a good idea of how The Abyss was a challenge on many different levels. Not just on a technical level. The documentary also shows how it was a challenge, both emotionally and physically, for all the cast and crew involved in the project. It would soon be considered by many to be one of the toughest shoots in film history.

It was interesting to learn about the innovative underwater equipment developed just for the film, plus seeing how some of the best underwater photography for a motion picture to date was accomplished. James Cameron has a reputation of being difficult to work with and this film shows why this may be the case. It is up to the viewer to decide whether or not this is true once the viewing experience is complete. If you have not seen the film you will have a great appreciation for what went into the making of this underwater epic. If you have seen The Abyss, you will enjoy the movie even more than you did before.

Miracle (2004)

Great Sports Film

[8/10 · 1 March 2004]

I don't know how anyone, at least here in the states, can come away from this film and not be feeling a sense of patriotism. The movie is focused around the 1980 Olympic hockey team and what they accomplished in route to the gold medal in Lake Placid. I felt the movie did a good job in presenting what most viewers of the film probably already knew going in...a team of individuals that rose to unexpected heights and pulled off a miracle victory against a superior team in the Soviet Union.

I went to see this movie for numerous reasons including my enjoyment of hockey and being a Kurt Russell fan. Kurt Russell did a great job as the US hockey coach, Herb Brooks, who did whatever it took to bring a group of individuals together as one team, a team playing for the name on the front of the uniform as opposed to the name on the back. This is the kind of sports film that I will watch time and time again because it worked for me on so many different levels. The film had a few flaws here and there, but overall it is a good family film that everyone can watch, both adults and kids, and come away in a feel good mood.

Charlton Heston Presents the Bible (1992 Video)

Watch Mr. Heston Bring The Good Book to Life

[9/10 · 1 March 2004]

This is Charlton Heston's odyssey into some of the greatest stories of the Bible. I feel he does a great job in bringing the Bible to life as he presents four different stories to the viewer in a way that only he he can do. The video consists of stories about Genesis, Moses, Jesus of Nazareth and The Passion of Christ. All of the stories were shot on location in the Holy Land and are presented with Mr. Heston reading directly from Scripture as well as discussing historical facts about the time and places he is bringing to life. One of the places he resides in while reading includes a first century Roman amphitheater located in Israel.

My particular favorite is The Passion which presents the tragic and triumphant story of Jesus Christ that occurs in the New Testament. It may seem to some that watching one person stand around quoting Scripture on screen would get boring after awhile, but I thought it was really done well with paintings and images of specific scenes as he read through the Good Book. Mr Heston presents the readings in a powerful and impassioned way which left me wanting more. I recommend this video collection if you are a believer in the Bible or even if you are just a Charlton Heston fan. Music, imagery and Charlton Heston's style of presenting the Gospels all make this a memorable experience that you will watch time and time again.

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

Great Action Flick That Never Gets Old

[9/10 · 22 February 2004]

I have seen this movie repeatedly over the years and never grow tired of it. The movie entertains me on so many levels. The cinematography, musical score, the characters all breathe life into the movie so well. The action sequences are really exciting and Harrison Ford is at his best in bringing archeologist Indiana Jones to life. I enjoy the character so much because he does not come off as a superhero. He seems human, not invincible as some screen heroes are often portrayed coming through huge trials without a scratch. Sure Indiana Jones does some things that seem over the top or impossible, but his character isn't without flaws. He is human and gets beaten up pretty badly as he goes through numerous trials and tribulations.

The movie never fails in keeping the viewer's interest as one great action scene occurs after another. This particular movie is my favoite of all the Indiana Jones movies. I feel the movie holds up very well even after all these years. The film does not feel dated at all. The movie launched quite a few ripoffs during the early 80s, none which ever stood up to the success or greatness of this one. Many tried, but very few succeeded. This movie will always go down as one of my all time favorite movies.

Crash Goes the Hash (1944)

Another hilarious Curly short

[9/10 · 22 February 2004]

This one falls into my top 5 favorites featuring Curly. The Stooges play laundrymen who are mistaken for rival reporters by an editor. He sends the Stooges to go and cover a pressing story. This particular episode is famous for an ongoing gag where Curly can't seem to smoke a cigar without getting it smashed prior to lighting. It also has the classic "parrot in the turkey" gag which was seen in a few other Stooge shorts.

Some other moments that come to mind in this one for me are when Larry gets a scalding hot turkey platter placed on his back by Moe. Perfectly timed to occur when he bends over after getting gum on his shoe. This one has so many great moments, so many great one liners. Everytime Moe sings that song to the turkey in the sink, "Nice little turkey, getting its bath at 7:30 and will be well cooked by 8 o'clock" I roll on the ground laughing my head off. As if it would only take half an hour to cook one. Watch this one if it ever runs on TV or on video. It's a classic!

The Abyss (1989)

Director's cut is a great cinematic experience

[8/10 · 16 February 2004]

I really enjoyed the theatrical version of this film when it first came to home video. I then saw the director's cut of the film and felt that an entertaining movie became a fantastic one. In the theatrical version it seemed as though the aliens kind of popped up at the end to save Ed Harris. The director's cut is by far a much better viewing experience because it gives more depth and reasoning for why the aliens are there and what there purpose is. It has some underlying messages in the film about the dangers of nuclear war, but that was seen in many of James Cameron's flicks from the original Terminator thru True Lies. Some of the characters are a little annoying at times, but I felt The Abyss is a great roller coaster ride with its action sequences. The movie also did a great job in making the viewer claustrophobic at times, especially in the diving scenes aboard the sunken sub.

It amazes me that there is some negative feedback that appears on the IMDB regarding this film. I sit there thinking to myself…what film did that person watch? You only have to watch the documentary, Under Pressure: Making The Abyss, to have respect for the finished product, and an all-new respect if you have seen the film already. Don't listen to the negative feedback about The Abyss. Decide for your self by watching the director's cut today. It is a great cinematic viewing experience.

Spider-Man (2002)

Greatest Comic Book Adaptation since Superman: The Movie

[9/10 · 5 May 2002]

It has been a long time since I went to the movies to watch a comic book adaptation and come away so completely and utterly satisfied. I drove 65 miles to an AMC Theatre in Overland Park because the theaters in Topeka are relics that should be condemned. It was worth the trip out there!!

Sam Raimi hit a bull's-eye with Spiderman sticking closely to the comic book's central theme. He also succeeds in having a good balance between the drama and the humor in the film as well as presenting a lot of storyline detail in a movie that is just over 2 hours long. I have quickly become a huge fan of his over the last few years, and after seeing Spiderman, I enjoy his work even more than before. There are some minor problems and changes with Spiderman compared to the comic book, but they are just that...minor.

Tobey Maguire made a believer out of me as Peter Parker. I was quite skeptical when I first heard the announcement he was going to play this role. He turned out to be a great pick proving me wrong. I felt he did a good job carrying out the transformation his character goes through from high school nerd to an individual presented with great gifts who, through various trials and tribulations, quickly learns that with great power comes great responsibility. Willem Dafoe pulled off Norman Osborne beyond my expectations playing him and his evil alter ego, The Green Goblin, with diabolical delight. I liked the fact that the director allowed the movie to be dark in tone when it needed to be and also to be violent in its portrayal of The Green Goblin as he wreaks havoc and carnage towards his enemies and in the finale as he meets his demise.

The movie doesn't necessarily have an upbeat ending, but rather nicely sets up for the upcoming sequel. It showed the viewer that the abilities Peter Parker now possesses are not just a gift, but are also a curse because of occurrences that took place due partly in fact to his being Spiderman. For example, the events that took place with Mary Jane and his Aunt Mae. When his enemy learned who the man behind the mask really was, those closest to him were tormented. There is also great tragedy in the fact that Peter Parker is between a rock and a hard place as his alter ego, Spiderman, when it comes to his best friend Harry Osborne. As the movie winds down, Harry has animosity and bitterness toward Spiderman because he thinks he murdered his father, but at the same time considers Peter Parker the only real family he has left.

It was also very cool to see Bruce Campbell have a cameo as the ring announcer during the wrestling scene. Although brief, it is a memorable scene for Bruce Campbell fans. I will definitely see this one again. Just a wonderful 2 hours of movie making that gives me hope knowing there are still moviemakers out there that know how to bring superhero flicks to the big screen with major success. This movie was meant to do nothing more than entertain its audience and it goes above and beyond that. Go and watch Spiderman today!!!

9/10

Mystery Men (1999)

Who are these Mystery Men?

[8/10 · 4 May 2002]

Mystery Men is a comedy that is not for everyone. You either get it or you don't. It takes a certain sense of humor to enjoy this film because a lot of the humor in the film is subtle. This is why I feel a lot of people did not understand the film or thought it was stupid.

I never get tired of Mystery Men. It never takes itself too seriously and often displays a witty sarcasm when dealing with the main characters. Fans of Ben Stiller who are really familiar with his style of humor will have a much better appreciation for the kind of corny dialogue he expels throughout the movie.

The set designers, art directors and Kinka Usher did a great job in capturing the mood of what a real super hero city could possibly be like. I think the setting and mood of Mystery Men is much more appealing as a comic book world than any of the Batman movies ever were. The Batman movies were just too fake. Another reason I think I enjoyed this film is that much of the mood and setting of this film reminded me of The Tick (animated show), another one of my favorite super hero shows. The supporting villains and super heroes, the dialogue and atmosphere could all be part of the Tick universe. Unfortunately the FOX live action show failed to capture what I feel Mystery Men did quite well as far as creating a comic book world. I for one would love to see another movie with the Mystery Men, but in all reality I know this will never happen. No matter, I still consider this to be one of my all time favorite comic book films.

The Rookie (2002)

A Good, Clean Family Film

[8/10 · 3 May 2002]

I saw this recently in the theaters. The main draw for me was the theme of baseball, but their was much more to the movie. The Rookie tells the story of a high school teacher, Jim Morris, who pursues his dream after the baseball team he coaches issues him with a challenge to try out for a major league team if they win their division title. Dennis Quaid did a wonderful job as Jim Morris. He really breathed life into the role. The story was very good in showing the theme of making choices and how those choices affect our lives and the individuals around us. A particularly memorable scene is when his wife first learns of his attempts to get back into baseball. You would expect his wife to initially be supportive of him because it is something he really wants to do, but there is an expression of mixed emotions as she honestly expresses her real feelings on his attempt at trying to get into the majors in his late thirties. She isn't particularly supportive and prefers he not do it in the beginning. The film will leave you with a "feel good" attitude after you watch it, and you do not necessarily have to enjoy baseball to enjoy the film. Whether you see it in theaters or wait until home video please make sure you make an effort to see this film.

The Abbott and Costello Show (1952–1957)

Classic television that never gets outdated

[26 April 2002]

When I heard this was originally coming out on DVD I knew it was going to be added to my collection. This show has a lot of nostalgia for me. I have been watching it in syndication since the 1970's. Abbott and Costello had some funny movies but it was this TV show that really left me in stitches. Yes, many of their routines were taken from their movies and from other comedy acts (Niagara Falls, for ex., was seen in a 3 Stooges short), but their timing and a great supporting cast, that included Sidney Fields as their landlord, Gordon Jump as Mike the Cop, Joe Besser as Stinky and Hilliary Brooke, made this a fun filled 30 minutes of television that I never get tired of watching.

These 2 comic greats shine with episodes that included their famous "Who's On First?" routine, and one of my favorites where Costello runs for mayor. Abbott explains that Costello is a combination of both a Democrat and a Republican, and someone in the audience yells out: "He sure is. He eats like an elephant and thinks like a jackass!!" Classic television. Costello was a true comic genius and this show was a great platform for letting him display his great timing for physical slapstick and funny dialogue. Thanks to the creators and writers for giving us this classic TV show. It will be a favorite of mine for the rest of my life.

Mr. Majestyk (1974)

One of my favorite Bronson flicks

[14 April 2002]

Charles Bronson is great as Vince Majestyk, a melon farmer who absolutely has to get his watermelon crop in. Paul Koslo plays Bobby Kopas, a thug who tries to get Majestyk to use his crew to pick melons. He throws Kopas off his property and ends up in jail where he comes across a mafia thug, played by Al Lettieri. The rest of the film focuses around the mafia thug, Renda, going after Majestyk when Majestyk commandeers a prison bus and drives off with Renda during a failed prison break that Renda's men attempted. He wants to use Renda as a trade with the police in exchange for his freedom, but Renda escapes from Majestyk, and begins his obsession with taking out Majestyk. Little does Renda know that Majestyk knows how to take care of himself. He was a former soldier and his actions through the rest of the film give support to this. I remember seeing the film as a little kid at a drive-in and thinking it was a very cool action flick. The film introduced me to Charles Bronson as an action hero for the rest of the decade and into the 1980's. I really enjoy the lines that Charles Bronson delivers. The movie has a lot of fast paced action. Some of the supporting acting seems a bit stiff at times, but I do feel Paul Koslo did a good job as a slimy jerk who you quickly want to see get what he deserves. Mr Majestyk has some clichés as far as action films go, but for Bronson fans I guarantee the experience will be an entertaining one.

The Jeff Corwin Experience (2001– )

Splendid Time Is Guaranteed For All

[7 April 2002]

The Jeff Corwin Experience is a show that everyone should watch. The show is hilarious yet educational at the same time. Jeff Corwin takes the viewer on a plethora of journeys all over the globe introducing them to exotic flora and fauna from Alaska to Madagascar to Borneo. One of the things about this show that appeals to me is how Jeff amuses his audience with funny voices, outlandish caricatures and a sense of humor that can be quite subtle at times. I always find myself wanting more of this show. It quickly has become one of my favorite shows on television. The program is good, clean fun. Look for it on Animal Planet. As a student of zoology I recommend the show to anyone interested in animals. Hope to see more experiences for years to come!

Jaws (1975)

It's a Carcharodon carcharias a great white

[9/10 · 31 March 2002]

No need to bore the reader with the plot details because anyone who is the least bit familiar with this film knows what it is about. Jaws is one of those movies I never get tired of. It is still as entertaining and suspenseful now as it was when I first saw it on the big screen in the 70s. Spielberg does a wonderful job in not showing the actual shark until the latter part of the film. It really helps to build the suspense, leaving it up to the viewer's imagination as to what Amity and its people are really up against. A masterful musical score by John Williams helps to move this along wonderfully. The score really breathes life in to the movie. The music is so recognizable today that most die-hards of the cinema are instantaneously familiar with it. Jaws is similar to his previous film, Duel, about strife between man and leviathan, the leviathan being a truck and its faceless driver. In Jaws the leviathan is a great white.

I feel the movie does a splendid job in showing the emotional strife that Chief Brody undergoes as the movie progresses. As the film opens, he is a sheriff who is quite happy doing his job on Amity without any real problems compared to what he once faced in his job prior to living on Amity. Then he transforms into a man under a great deal of pressure and anxiety as he encounters a problem bigger than anything he ever faced before.

Numerous films were compared to Jaws throughout the 70s and early 80s. It was a huge phenomenon when it came out launching a plethora of rip-offs, some good, some horrible. The movie has great dialogue, editing, music and characters that help to make this one of the classic films from the 1970s. Robert Shaw's role as Quint is one for the ages. He really brought his character to life with a memorable performance worthy of an Oscar.

For me, the best part of the film is when Brody, Hooper and Quint head out to sea to capture and/or kill the Great White. So many wonderful moments in the last part of the film that bring out a wide variety of emotions including laughter, tension, anxiety, sorrow and finally a sense of relief when the shark is killed.

I have a friend that feels there are a lot of correlations between Jaws and Moby Dick. Bruce the Shark is to Quint what Moby Dick was to Captain Ahab. It's up to the viewer to believe whether this is the case or not. And finally, for what it's worth, all the dress jackets that Murray Hamilton (Mayor Larry Vaughn) wears in the film, including the one with the little anchors, are some of the worst I've seen in movies to date.

The Tick (1994–1997)

Let's Hang Ten For Justice!!!

[23 March 2002]

The Tick ran on Saturday mornings for kids, but I knew of numerous adults that watched this show and loved it. The show is not for everyone, mind you. You will either understand the humor and love it, or not get it and quickly turn the channel. I was hooked on it from day one. The show had memorable characters, villains and very witty dialogue. It often left me thinking to myself that many kids were not going to get the humor because the show came off as more of a comic book satire than a kiddie show. The show did offer enough action and colorful characters to appeal to the Saturday morning crowd, though.

The writers of the show, which included Tick creator Ben Edlund, really hit a bull's-eye by creating such memorable heroes like Sewer Urchin (sounded very much like Dustin Hoffman in Rainman) and Die Fledermaus and great villains like The Terror and the unforgettable Evil Midnight Bomber What Bombs At Midnight. I also felt that Townsend Coleman did a wonderful job in bringing The Tick to life. He gave The Tick some real heart and soul. This show will always be one of my all-time favorites because of its satirical humor and memorable characters. I never get tired of it. I have as much fun watching The Tick now as I did when I first saw the show in the mid 1990's.

The Flash: Pilot (1990) Season 1, Episode 0

Great Comic Book Adaptation

[7/10 · 23 March 2002]

This movie premiered in September of 1990 shortly after the 1989 Batman film. There are definite similarities between the two in mood, art direction, style and music. When I first heard about this show I was really excited because I had been a fan of The Flash and DC Comics for years prior to this show. I felt the creators of the show did a wonderful job in setting the mood for a comic book atmosphere. I thought the stories were entertaining and as I watch them years later they still appeal to me. The special effects for the time were pretty good. John Wesley Shipp made a great Barry Allen, and The Flash costume he wore was one of the better costume efforts I've seen for a superhero. I also felt the show created some real likeable characters. In addition, I felt the Barry Allen and Christina McGee characters had good on-screen chemistry.

Unfortunately, the TV show only lasted one season because CBS never knew where they wanted to put this show from week to week. I watched every episode of the TV show until it was cancelled. I can only ponder what could have been, where the show could have gone if it had been given a real chance to grow and develope into a premiere super hero show. Whenever any of the actors show up in anything else, I always think of The Flash immediately, especially John Wesley Shipp. It was only one season, but his performance as The Flash and his alter ego, Barry Allen, left a lasting impression.

The Frisco Kid (1979)

Great Western Comedy

[8/10 · 23 March 2002]

I am sure there are those of you out there that remember this western-comedy from the late 70's. For those of you that don't, I highly recommend this movie. Gene Wilder and Harrison Ford star as an unlikely pair traveling across America in the Old West. Gene Wilder plays a rabbi trying to get to San Francisco for his own wedding. On the way he is robbed by some two-bit thieves. He teams up with Harrison Ford and the two embark on a series of humorous mishaps as they try and get back the rabbi's stolen goods including his Torah. The movie really has some funny moments and even if you are not a big western fan this movie will leave you highly entertained. It will leave you with a "feel good" attitude when the end credits roll. The dance number with Gene Wilder and some Indians is absolutely classic. The movie is a must for Gene Wilder fans. I feel this is one of his best movies. Watch The Frisco Kid today!

Centennial (1978–1979)

The Best Mini-Series to date...

[10/10 · 23 March 2002]

This is without a doubt the best mini-series I have ever watched. A few have come close, but most fail in comparison to Centennial. I really became involved with the characters and the story development was wonderful. Great acting and an inspiring musical score also help to make this a mini-series worth viewing if you have never seen it before. Centennial does a wonderful job in showing the birth and rise of a fictional town and its people in Colorado along with presenting social and ecological issues. A truly moving and exciting piece of television history!

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965 TV Movie)

My Favorite Christmas Show!

[10/10 · 23 March 2002]

Charlie Brown Christmas really is on a plateau all by itself. Watching this Christmas special is a yearly ritual that I never get tired of. The magnificent Vince Guaraldi score really sets the mood for this great special. I truly am a huge fan of the Peanuts gang and I feel this is their best special, offering priceless moments, classic dialogue and a touching scene at the end when Linus explains the true meaning of Christmas to the rest of the Peanuts gang. This is not just for kids, but for adults as well. When the holiday season rolls around pop this video into the ol' VCR or DVD player and enjoy this classic!

Papillon (1973)

A Classic Prison Escape Film

[10/10 · 22 March 2002]

Franklin J. Schaffner felt that the obligation of motion pictures is to entertain, it's as basic as that, and that is exactly what Papillon does. It is also a movie that really triggers your emotions from start to finish. I feel this is one of Steve McQueen's best acting roles. It was probably the most physically demanding and emotionally challenging role of his career. Dustin Hoffman is simply magnificent as Louis Dega, a role that demonstrates how versatile the actor really can be. It eventually earned him a best supporting actor nomination. Unfortunately, McQueen was overlooked by the Academy that year. Another example of their stupidity!!

The film is emotionally draining, but I find myself watching this film time and time again because of its portrayal of one man's quest to gain his freedom no matter what it takes. Freedom always comes at a price. It is not something that is handed to us or exists freely. It must be earned and that is exactly what his character does by the time the credits role on this film. The viewer will not believe what the character of Papillon had to endure to gain his freedom. The trials he goes through are unforgettable and often left me wondering if I would persevere if I had to undergo the trials he faced.

For me, Steve McQueen is one of those actors who really has a great on screen presence. I will almost always watch a movie just because he appears in it, good or bad. Papillon is no exception. Although Papillon is a character driven film, the movie must be viewed for more than just the characters. It also has wonderful cinematography, direction and a memorable, and at times haunting, musical score by Jerry Goldsmith. It is right up there with the best of the prison escape films.

Henri Charrière, the real life Papillon and author of the novel, talked about society and his real life experiences in this way:

"Society does not want free men. They talk freedom, democracy, anything you want, but they do not want free men. Society wants conditioned men, men who march in step." It's up to the viewer to agree or disagree with that statement while viewing the film.

I highly recommend you watch this film today!

Return to Me (2000)

A Truly Wonderful Film

[8/10 · 20 March 2002]

This particular film was one that I wanted to see in theaters, but never got around to it. When I finally rented it in the summer of 2001 I enjoyed it so much that I went out and bought the DVD soon after. Bonnie Hunt and Don Lake did a wonderful job with the screenplay and are wonderful to listen to on the audio commentary that is included on the DVD. They did a great job in creating characters that you really care about. I really felt a whirlwind of emotions watching this film including sadness, anxiety and joy. The film also does a great job in showing the importance of family (a rarity in film today), which is a reflection of the director, Bonnie Hunt, based on the comments she made on the DVD. David Duchovny showed me here that there is life beyond Fox Mulder giving a wonderful performance with some pretty poignant scenes. I highly recommend that you give this movie a viewing. I am really thankful to the creators of this film. They have given me a wonderful piece of cinematic viewing that I will recommend to all my friends. I have seen a lot of movies over the years and it is very rare that I come away with such a feeling of satisfaction after watching a film. I will watch this time and time again for years to come. Return to Me reminds me that there are still moviemakers out there that know how to sincerely please their movie audiences. Thanks!!

Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)

Should have been titled Superman IV: Rest In Peace

[1/10 · 2 March 2002]

This movie never should have been released. This movie is at the opposite end of the spectrum as far as favorites go for me. The 1978 original is one of my all time favorite films, while sitting through this one at the movies was like getting a root canal without the novocain. Special effects were horrible as well as character development and plot line. How could any studio head or those involved with the final print of this film feel comfortable with the finished project?

Talk about a film that rode on the popularity of its predecessors and failed to live up to any expectations that fans of the earlier films had. This movie certainly was the nail in the coffin as far as the Christopher Reeve Superman films go. And for what it's worth I fall in the category that feels Superman 3 was better than this mess. A waste of celluloid.

Westworld (1973)

Made me a Yul Brynner fan

[9/10 · 29 June 2001]

I saw this film back in 1975 as an 8 year old. I loved it then and it still holds up for me years later. Yul Brynner's role as the robot gunslinger really left an impact on me. He really is the highlight of the film, although there are many other good things to watch Westworld for. It is not the best sci-fi flick ever made, but I still feel that it holds up today as an entertaining movie. The musical score by Fred Karlin is especially disturbing at times and it really added to the excitement of the last part of the movie. Yul Brynner modeled his robot gunslinger after the character he portrayed in The Magnificent Seven. The first part of the movie follows a number of guests as they travel in to the world of their choice in Delos, a theme park of the future where eventually things go terribly wrong and most of the guests are killed off with the last part of the movie dealing with Yul Brynner tracking down Richard Benjamin with only one purpose...to kill him. Suspenseful action, a chilling musical score, good acting and an ending that left me drained when I originally saw it make this a movie worth watching. What are you waiting for...watch this movie today!

I Can Hardly Wait (1943)

My Favorite 3 Stooges short

[9/10 · 29 June 2001]

This is without a doubt the funniest of the Curly shorts and probably my all-time favorite 3 Stooges short. The one liners that Moe throws off in this one are classic! The first time I saw this one it left me laughing my head off. Some of the abuse that Larry and Curly take in this one leaves the viewer wondering if they did not receive some real injuries. Stooge trivia books, though, said Moe perfected his hand slap on his fellow Stooges. There is one funny moment where you can tell a fall was taken by Curly Howard's stunt double (as was the case in many other features). If you have not seen this one look for it on cable or buy it on video. I guarantee you'll watch it time and time again as I have over the years.