michellemurmurs6244 Reviews

Kingpin (1996)

You call this funny?

[2/10 · 19 August 2005]

A promising bowler leaves home to become a champion the town folk can be proud of. Idealistic and naive he falls prey to a rival bowler's plot to remove his competition and ends up losing a hand. Interesting plot so far. What is done with it is supposed to be a rip roaring slap-your-knee laugh fest. Well I've laughed more at online postings than I did well watching this. Maybe I just don't get the Farrelly brothers type of humor if that's what you call it. There's a bunch of sight gags that go nowhere and look really lame. There are jokes that you see coming a mile off and just repeat themselves. There are some usual disgusting scenes that make you cringe. What this movie doesn't seem to have is any originality. OK so there's an Amish bowler but he comes off as stupid just so we can laugh at the predictable stupid things he does. Like the other characters he's two-dimensional and not that likable. It's a shame that a otherwise talented cast is stuck with this turkey on their resumes.

Henry & June (1990)

Beautifully filmed, a bit overlong

[8/10 · 17 August 2005]

The title characters in this film are writer Henry Miller and his wife June. Two friends of Anais Nin. And more. The fact is she is frankly obsessed with both of them. A writer of erotica, she wants to experience sensuality in bold and daring ways. She gets the chance when her husband Hugo brings Henry to stay with them while he works on his novel. After June arrives Anais finds herself secretly thrilled at the hidden lascivious feelings the couple seem to bring out in her. Before long she is acting them out in abandon. This takes place in 1930s Paris and scenes of sex are are everywhere. They are as casually shown as if walking through different rooms. There is a richness and matter-of- fact manner about this film. Even though it is NC-17 I don't see it as "dirty" just boldly erotic. There are terrific performances by all involved. Actress Maria de Medeiros looks like a beautiful wide-eyed waif and is emotionally perfect as Anais. Fred Ward gives an unforgettable portrait of gruff and down to earth Henry Miller. Uma Thurman in an early role as June is beautiful and tragic.

The Young Ones (1982–1984)

Now that's what I call anarchy!

[10/10 · 16 August 2005]

Back in the days when MTV really meant MTV they would show this imported britcom on Sunday evenings. I always looked forward to watching it. This show was so different than any other kind of show I had seen before that it absolutely fascinated me. The characters of Rick, Vyvyan, Neil and Mike had me hooked with their loud, obnoxious and rowdy behavior. On one level it's lowbrow, juvenile and shrill. On another it's clever, original and refreshingly unlike anything else. It's partly a situation comedy, partly a musical variety show. I love the arguments between Rick and Vyvyan and Rick and Neil and well.....Rick and anybody! I love Vyvyan's random destruction of the house and random abuse of well.....everybody. If you want a reason to really laugh out loud this is the show that will help you do it.

Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Charming comedy

[8/10 · 15 August 2005]

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan make a great team. Even when they don't spend that much screen time together. In this story that often references An Affair To Remember, Tom Hanks is recently widowed father with an intrepid 7 year-old son and Meg Ryan is engaged to devoted but bland Bill Pullman. Meg hears Tom on a radio talk show one night and is so touched by his recollections about his late wife she can't get him off her mind. On impulse she writes to him but then changes her mind and tosses the letter. Her best friend played by Rosie O'Donnell decides to mail the letter anyway. When Tom's son wants to go to New York To meet the woman who wrote the letter Tom resists. But fate intervenes. Perfect for helpless romantics.

Truly Madly Deeply (1990)

My feet will want to march to where you are sleeping.......

[10/10 · 14 August 2005]

This gem of a film came out around the same time Ghost was making such an impact. If you missed it the first time around you might want to look for it next time you rent a movie. Nina is grieving over the death of her lover Jamie. So much so that she barely functions. Just going through the day by day routine. In a riveting scene she breaks down to her therapist. "I miss him!" Back home she listlessly plays the piano when suddenly she realizes she hears cello music accompanying her. To her shock and overwhelming joy Jamie has returned. It doesn't matter that he's a ghost with cold lips. They pick out shapes in clouds. They play silly word games (it's where the movie's title comes from) and sing and dance around the flat with abandon. However reality refuses to be put off and as Nina starts to become part of the living once again she is given a chance for a new relationship and has to decide whether she can once and for all let Jamie go. Juliet Stevenson and Alan Rickman are brilliantly touching and funny.

Absolutely Fabulous (1992–2012)

Eddie and Patsy 4-Ever!

[14 August 2005]

Comedienne Jennifer Saunders has created two of Britcom's most unforgettable and hilarious characters, Eddie Monsoon and Patsy Stone. Two hedonistic, narcissistic and self-indulgent middle-agers. Eddie is the mother of Saffron (Julia Sawalha) a politically aware, studious, responsible young woman who often harangues the two ladies for their lifestyle choices. Patsy is a man-hungry shrew with a sharp tongue whose bragging and defensive attitude is often a cover-up for her own incompetence and uncertainty. It's pretty obvious the Eddie is her only friend in the world. Eddie herself is often torn between her friend and daughter who hate each immensely. More often than not it's Patsy she sides with though in her own way she does love Saffy. The dialog is often fast, sarcastic and witty. The situations are outrageous and side-splitting. I hope Jennifer Saunders keeps writing for this series. We need all the genuine talent we can get.

Once and Again (1999–2002)

Reality TV should be so involving

[14 August 2005]

The best TV had to offer would never be quite the same when instead of interesting, imaginative, well-written character dramas like Once And Again we get "reality TV". The plot of the series involves two 40 somethings Rick and Lily who find themselves falling in love after ending their respective marriages. We see the effect their relationship has on the people in their lives. Their children, their exes, their siblings and business partner. In a clever plot device, characters will give a monologue to the camera occasionally in order to reveal the feelings they are going through. In addition to Rick and Lily's love story we see their kids coping with their lives and how their exes move on with theirs. There's not a family member on either side that you don't find yourself caring about. Nobody is perfect. All have faults, hurt others sometimes but ultimately learn their lesson and redeem themselves. The entire cast is perfect. It's a shame this only lasted for three seasons.

Ghost (1990)

Can you feel me? With all my heart.

[10/10 · 13 August 2005]

This is an inspiring touching movie. The love of Molly and Sam overcomes the obstacle of Sam's death when his spirit stays earthbound in order to protect Molly from the crooks who killed him. At first he is unable to communicate with his loved one. A chance visit to a fake psychic named Oda Mae reveals that she is the only person who can hear him. He quickly obtains her help in contacting Molly and getting even with people responsible for his death. All three leads are marvelous in their roles. Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore make a wonderful yuppie couple. Banker and artist. Whoopie Goldberg gives the best performance of her career as the feisty Oda Mae. Funny romantic and suspenseful everything you could want in a good ghost story.

Light in the Piazza (1962)

Beautiful scenery

[9/10 · 13 August 2005]

American Olivia De Havilland is vacationing in Italy with mentally impaired daughter Yvette Mimeux when fate intervenes. They meet up with George Hamilton who is instantly attracted to Mimeux. Seemingly oblivious to the reason for her childlike enthusiasm he falls for her. This causes some consternation for her mother. Should she encourage this pairing or not? After the girl's father shows up the mother finds herself having to make a decision will affect her daughter's life. A very well acted drama. George Hamilton is fine in an early role. Olivia De Havilland does another magnificent turn as the over protective mother. Check this one out.

The Fury (1978)

Interesting psychic thriller

[7/10 · 13 August 2005]

When his son is kidnapped by government agents who want to exploit his telekinetic powers, Kurt Douglas is determined to get him back. Staying one step ahead of the organization he goes after Amy Irving. She's a young woman who is dealing with her own psychic powers. Together they attempt to save Andrew Stevens who is being driven insane by the inability to control his gift. John Cassavetes is convincingly chilling in a villainous role. There are plenty of shocking scenes. A woman is turned into a human sprinkler in one. The ending where Amy Irving takes her revenge is one of the most gruesome scenes ever. Director Brian Depalma lives up to his reputation for creating inventive scenes. Be prepared, blood will flow.

Tommy (1975)

Bizarre and fantastic

[10/10 · 13 August 2005]

The combining of The Who's memorable rock opera with Ken Russell's unique and outrageous directing style is a perfect match. Taking each of the songs from the best selling album Russell creates a visual storyline that is both beautiful and surreal. The cast lip syncs to a pre-recorded soundtrack. As singers, some of the actors do a better job than others but it's still fun to watch them. The rock star part of the cast give outstanding performances. Playing the title role is Who lead singer Roger Daltrey in his film debut. It's no wonder he has since done several other acting stints. He has wonderful charisma on screen. After starring in this he went on to star in another Russell vehicle (Lisztomania) proving that he must be one heck of a good sport as well. Another good sport is actress Ann-Margret playing Tommy's mother. She required stitches in her hand during the filming. She was re-payed for her hard work with an Academy Award nomination for best actress. Highly recommended.

The Bride (1985)

A story for dreamers

[10/10 · 13 August 2005]

This version of Mary Shelley's famous story has often been heavily criticized surprisingly. Actually I find it a refreshing and imaginative effort. It concerns the efforts of Baron Charles Frankenstein (Sting) to create, control and ultimately to conquer the perfect woman. After an electrifying creation scene the baron's first male creation comes to claim his counterpart but disaster results and he runs off into the night. After rescuing the raven haired beauty from the flames engulfing his laboratory the baron decides to tell people she was brought to him after being discovered unconscious in the woods. He gives her the name Eva and begins educating her. In the meantime the male creature befriends a dwarf after rescuing him from a group of tormenting schoolboys. The dwarf looks beyond the creature's unusual appearance and sees a man simply longing for friendship and acceptance. He gives him the name Viktor teaches him about life on the road. The two stories intertwine until circumstances bring Viktor back to the Baron's castle to try to win back his "bride". The Baron's creations are played by Jennifer Beals and Clancy Brown. The late Dasvid Rappaport plays the dwarf Rinaldo. If I have any criticisms it's that Sting in his portrayal of the Baron has a constant irritated look on his face and final confrontation between Eva and the Baron could have been better written. Other than that I really enjoyed it.

Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)

Very good

[8/10 · 12 August 2005]

I saw this in the theater when it first came out. I was never that big a fan of Loretta Lynn but I found myself drawn into the story of her life. Mostly because of the actors involved. Sissy Spacek gives yet another outstanding performance as the country music legend. From an awkward 13 year old who finds herself a child bride of the ambitious Mooney Lynn to the star of the Grand Oprey who is dealing with raising kids and a womanizing husband. The cast includes musician Levon Helm as Loretta Lynn's coal miner father and Beverly D'Angelo as Patsy Cline, her mentor and best friend. Sissy Spacek even did her own singing surprisingly. She deserved the Oscar she won for this role. Even if you're not a country music fan this is a worthwhile film to check out.

Hysteria: The Def Leppard Story (2001 TV Movie)

Average

[5/10 · 12 August 2005]

With all the trauma Def Leppard has been through it's only right one should make a movie about their career. This is after all the band that is said to be cursed. Of course I don't see what's so unique about their problems other than that they are the only band whose drummer lost his arm. All the other stuff is pretty much standard fare with every other rock and roll band. The film itself holds no surprises or earth shattering revelations. The characters come across as two dimensional. You'd get the same stuff from the biography channel. Don't get me wrong. I have a great appreciation for Def Leppard and their music. To be honest I would much happier watching a Def Leppard music video. Recommended for hardcore fans only.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Imaginative and heartbreaking

[10/10 · 12 August 2005]

Johnny Depp is unrecognizable in this touching portrait of a lonely creation made by a recluse inventor played by the late Vincent Price. Before he can add the final touches, a pair of hands, he drops dead of a heart attack leaving Edward with lethal looking shears at the end of his arms. Due to the intervention of a determined and cheerful Avon lady (Diane Weist) Edward finds himself becoming the neighborhood celebrity when his creativity with his appendages is discovered. However he is only appreciated for his unique appearance while he longs to become an ordinary everyday person. "But then there wouldn't be anything special about you. You'd just be like everyone else" he is told. Even his love for the Avon lady's daughter (Winona Ryder) is doomed thanks to her bullying boyfriend (Anthony Michael Hall). Director Tim Burton has created an imaginative tale that's unforgettably poignant.

McVicar (1980)

Intriguing and well-acted

[10/10 · 12 August 2005]

In the mid seventies Roger Daltrey read ex-bank robber John McVicar's autobiography and realized how similar their life situations could have been if he hadn't chosen to become a singer with The Who. He decided to buy the rights to the book and have movie made about McVicar's life in prison and his escape and life as a wanted fugitive. It was only right that Daltrey himself should play McVicar. He does an incredibly impressive job too. Looking and acting like the tough belligerent convict who is determined to break out of a maximum security prison. He succeeds with the help of a fellow inmate played by Adam Faith. Once on the outside he goes back to see his common law wife and young son. After he decides life spent constantly looking over his shoulder is not for him he pulls one more bank heist in order to afford to move out of the country with his family. Unfortunately it doesn't quite turn out as he planned. Recommended.

The Breakfast Club (1985)

John Hughs at his best

[10/10 · 12 August 2005]

The storyline of this movie is simple. Five teens spend the day in detention. For various infractions of the rules. As they all get settled in they are told they will be writing an essay explaining who they are. After laying down the rules (no talking, no moving, no sleeping) the teacher leaves them to their assignment. Thus begins a day of debate, revelations, rivalry, confessions, breaking of the rules, tears, alliances, arguments, self-discovery and ultimately the forging of lifelong friendships. Every teenage clique is represented. Athletes by wrestler Andrew Clark (Emilio Estevez). Pressured by his father to be number one. Brainy geek Brian Johnson (Michael Anthony Hall). Pressured by his parents to get top grades. Mall princess Claire Standish (Molly Ringwald). Caught in a tug-of-war between her parents. Outsider John Bender (Judd Nelson). Physically and mentally abused by his parents. And loner Allison Reynolds (Ally Sheedy). Ultimately ignored by her parents. This movie makes detention seem cool. In reality, I don't see anyone being able to get away with these antics (smoking pot, roaming the halls, playing loud music) but it does make a case for seeing beyond labels and preconceived notions.

Fawlty Towers (1975– )

Hilarious classic

[12 August 2005]

John Cleese and ex-wife Connie Booth wrote and acted in this popular British sitcom. John Cleese plays Basil Fawlty, a snooty hotel managers who barely manages to tolerate his guests, his wife or his hotel staff. Due to his own inability to leave things well enough alone and his uppity attitude, Basil Fawlty is usually faced with one crisis or another. The situations he finds himself in are almost as funny as his reactions to them. I love his acid-laced comments to his wife played by Prunella Scales, his constant abuse of Manuel played by Andrew Sacs and the save-the-day common sense of Polly played by Connie Booth. This series has been made over into an American version a couple of times and with disastrous results. What American producers don't seem to understand is that characters don't have to be ultimately likable in order to be funny. John Cleese's portrayal of Basil Fawlty is a classic that can never be reproduced so why even try?

Carnal Knowledge (1971)

Ann-Margret is heartbreaking

[8/10 · 11 August 2005]

This is the movie most people point out as having saved Ann-Margret's floundering career. She well deserved the Oscar nod for playing the vulnerable Bobbie Templeton opposite Jack Nicholson's chauvinistic woman chaser. Jack Nicholson and Art Garfunkel play college roommates who have very different ideas about love and relationships. Candice Bergen is Art's girlfriend who has an affair with Jack. The scenes move from their college days up to their middle age years. Jack Nicholson is a convincing selfish creep whose first thought is always for himself. The dialog is sharp and biting. This movie might make you examine your own views on relations. Don't miss the scene where Jack Nicholson sardonically goes through his collection of "ballbusters on parade" Check this one out.

Shark Tale (2004)

Godfather meets Carwash underwater

[7/10 · 11 August 2005]

In this enjoyable family flick, Will Smith voices Oscar a big dreaming fish who works in a whale wash business. He's so preoccupied with hitting the big time and moving upwards in his underwater universe he fails to notice his friend Angie (voiced by Rene Zellweger) is head over heels for him. When he is mistakenly believed to have done away with a shark he quickly takes advantage of the notoriety. Robert DeNiro does the voice of Don Lino the mob shark boss who tries to make a vicious killer out of his son Lenny (Jack Black) who teams up with Oscar in order to escape the pressure of hiding the fact that he is a vegetarian. Also in the cast is Martin Scorsese as Oscar's boss and Anjelina Jolie as a femme fatal. The computer graphics are first rate with the actor's faces displayed on the animated characters. Fun way to spend the afternoon with the kids.

The Kids Are Alright (1979)

If you're not a fan already you will be

[10/10 · 11 August 2005]

It's hard to think of another rock documentary that so perfectly manages to convey the reason why someone would spend years lovingly planning, writing, searching archives and putting together such a project. Fans have watched this thousands of times and love to show it to others so they too can appreciate the phenomenon that is The Who. First there are the unforgettable live performances. Included are classics from Monterey Pop and Woodstock. From the opening clip showing their legendary American TV debut on the Smothers Brothers to a hilarious group interview on the Russell Harty show it captures the band's endearingly outrageous sense of humor. From an early clip of them performing I Can't Explain to a mind blowing performance of Won't Get Fooled Again it provides one with the irrefutable proof that The Who are simply the most unforgettable live band the rock world has ever known. Get this today (the two-disc DVD is well worth the price for all the extras) and then get ready to make believers out your friends. Long live rock indeed.

Ladyhawke (1985)

An all-time favorite

[10/10 · 11 August 2005]

I never pass up a chance to sit through this 80's adventure fantasy. This was made back in the days before Matthew Broderick became famous as Ferris Bueller and before Michelle Pfeiffer was a well-known and respected actress. I believe this was her third or fourth film role in the early days of her career. She is simply stunning as Isabeau, the title character. Rutger Hauer was at the top of his career and was perfectly cast as Navarre the cursed knight/wolf to Pfeiffer's ladyhawke. Matthew Broderick plays Phillip Gaston a pickpocket who becomes first an unwilling accomplice then a loyal ally to the lovers. Others in the cast include the late Leo Mckern as Father Imperius and John Wood as the Bishop of Aquila. It's a beautifully told story about love triumphing over evil. Highly recommended.

Luck of the Draw (2000)

Good actors and a so-so script

[3/10 · 11 August 2005]

After being unable to gain employment because of his criminal record, a young man fortune suddenly changes. A suitcase full of counterfeiting equipment worth millions comes into his possession when he literally walks into a shootout. Now the cops, crime boss and hit men are after him. Along the way he falls for a woman whose father is on the crime boss's pay roll. Everybody double-crosses everybody with gratuitous nudity thrown in for good measure. A cast full of top notch actors so it's a shame there's not much there to hold your interest. I saw this after Frank Gorshin passed away. He was a wonderful character actor. In this he gives credible performance as a man too far over his head in debt. Dennis Hopper is his usual bad guy persona as the short-tempered crime boss. Ice T makes an appearance as a rival crime boss. You pretty much can predict what is coming next all the way through the story. Not awful just not that great.