janusz-2 Reviews

Frequency (2000)

Interesting mind bend on probable realities.

[9/10 · 11 May 2000]

I really admire films that use the medium to do what other mediums can't do as well. This is one of those films. It is an engaging and well done movie that is definitely worth seeing.

Another movie that does this is Ground Hog Day (which I thought was brilliant) but it uses the genre of comedy to deliver its message. This movie is a fast paced action adventure film that is very well done and keeps you very interested.

The Horseman on the Roof (1995)

Focus is genius.

[10/10 · 26 February 2000]

I found this film to be excellent. Though I am a student of history, I really do not know all the details regarding this episode of the freeing of Italy from Austrian authoritarianism. Though interesting, the historical aspect of the movie was not that important to me. It was a highly enjoyable adventure film that could have been placed in lots of different historical times.

Besides being a great adventure film it masterfully dealt with a most wide range of emotions. There were many undertones and harmonics dealing with fear, desperation, horror, escape, passion, love, honor and divine, or natural, justice.

What was so fascinating to me was how the movie showed the power of freedom, courage and focus. The protagonist was raised by his mother (a most curiously powerful presence in this movie even though we never see or hear her)to be independent and freedom loving and this movie shows how strong and almost invincible this makes him because he believes it and lives it with all his heart. All around him the world is literally falling apart and going mad from fear and disease and yet, by neither railing against it nor taking on these thoughts, he triumphs with his will to live and being true to his own vision at all times.

And as an added bonus, the visual artistry of this movie, from the titles all the way to the end is beautiful to behold. The scenery, costumes, sets, actors, camera angles and etc. are all brilliantly satisfying. The movie was a joy to see.

Galaxy Quest (1999)

Pleasant Surprise

[10/10 · 5 February 2000]

This is a movie I went to strictly to accompany the kids, but I was pleasantly surprised by the high quality of this film. It has a great sense of humor, the special effects were very good, the acting was first rate and the story was well written.

And the movie stayed with us after we saw it, eliciting comments from everyone in the family. It had a respectful view of life, much in the same way as a good Norman Rockwell illustration in that it brought out the best in every character.

It is one of those movies that brings out a joyful attitude after seeing it.

Dangerous Beauty (1998)

Joyful & Exciting

[10/10 · 20 January 2000]

I did not even notice when this movie was released to cinemas, and was made aware of it by my local video rental store owner, who, knowing my rental history, highly recommended it. I was not expecting to see anything but a fairly good film and was greatly surprised with the highest quality of everything in this film. The casting, acting, writing of this film was excellent. The costumes and scenery is stunningly beautiful. The film is a joyful experience to watch and it would not surprise me if this film became a more known and more watched film over time. Most of the people I've recommended the film to have been very pleasantly surprised.

The tone of the film is high and the look at sexuality is surprisingly healthy, honest and entertaining.