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ayala-7
Reviews
Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)
Disappointing by any measures
I didn't expect this film to be a master piece. Neither did I expect it to follow the details and the story line in the book in a religious accuracy. And of course it didn't. In fact, this film is characterized by the most terrible pacing and timing, unconvincing acting, and is incredibly poorly written. Just like a money-driven Hollywood film should be. However, those important features (casting, acting, timing, screenplay, etc.) put aside, this film is also under-satisfying visually, with its many dark scenes that prevent one from enjoying the extravagant kimonos that were so carefully thought of. The set design also lacks the Japanese refined aesthetic that is so evident in the book. Not to mention the non authentic make up of the geisha (completely Westernized full red lips, rather than just the bottom lip and many other flaws that are quite disturbing and take away from the exotic allure of the geisha phenomenon). Also, there were many poor choices in changing crucial moments in the plot which made the story quite meaningless emotionally and very unoriginal. If you have read the book and loved it, you can definitely pass on this film. If you watched the film and thought it miserably made, don't let this prevent you from reading the book, which is an incredible experience on its own.
ScaredSacred (2004)
ScaredSacred finds Hope, Beauty and Compassion in a Devastating Universal Reality
ScaredSacred is a rare, beautiful, and emotionally and spiritually transforming film. It is a personal and spiritual journey, searching for light and hope amidst darkness and pain. That aside, it is beautifully filmed and edited, to tell a story of one's soul in search for understanding and redemption in its existence. The story is told as a mysterious tale and the cinematography is visually stunning and captivating.
It was personally touched by this film and it truly spoke to my heart. Having been raised in one of the "Ground Zero's" shown in the film, I found ScaredSacred surprisingly sincere and non-biased, and spiritually uplifting and transforming in a most positive and genuine way.
Velcrow Ripper's moving documentary film ScaredSacred is one of my favourite documentary films of all times.
A must see film!!!