Thats funny because i though hot fuzz was hilerious!
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Miss Potter ~ Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor
I really like this film alot. I did not know very much about Beatrice Potter's life so it was interesting to me as an artist to learn about her and the film was stunning ~ beautifully photographed, fabulous scenery in the Lake District, fine nuanced acting and good casting. The score by Rachael Portman I will be seeking. It was lovely. I found the film a total delight from beginning to end and very realistic of the times and how difficult having a profession was for women. I would have to give this film a 9/10
I would most certainly watch it again, not a complicated story, but very heartfelt and enjoyable with just a touch of CG to make it interesting and come alive. I love Peter Rabbit and her other tales so I liked this charming little movie.
I am now watching all the special features on the DVD - the true story of the woman herself was great and I will watch other features tonight....they are not to be missed! A very nice DVD presentation. Also included subtitles for the hearing impaired - glad of that since my mother wanted to see it and she was able to today and she loved it, too. So two votes for it!
December Boys... I'm going to rate it only 1/10. I hate to admit, but the movie was pretty boring. The reason why I watched it was because it was the only choice that I've got; the other movies showing was not really my type. So this is what I chose, besides Daniel was there and I used to like him a lot (because he's Harry Potter and all that). But I never watch that movie just because of him. Right now, I don't like him. It was all in the past. Anyways, about the movie. It was about four orphan boys who were born in the month of December (that's why they call themselves December Boys) and been sent to a place by the sea to celebrate their birthmonth. When they were there, Misty (one of the orphans) discovered that the couple lived next door is going to adopt a kid. He later told the others about it and they all competed for the place. The ending was fine and it was very sad. I even let a tear fall down on my face. However, I will only rate it 1 out of 10. *sighs*
"Swing Kids"
6/10
"Swing Kids" - only 6 out of 10? Amalia! I loved that film. I have seen it a couple of times now, in fact I own it. Why did you rate it so low - just curious? Of course, you have a right to your own opinion and we can't agree on all things. What did you not like about it though?
I saw two films last night - two very intense ones and still not sure what I fully think about them. I will try to come back later to comment. I saw "Copying Beethoven" and "Chrystal". Both had me thinking for a long time, but I still don't know how I truly felt about them...were they amazing, stunning or strange? Both definitely had lot of strange elements, but the performances in each were intense and interesting. If anyone has seen either let me know. I would like to hear your opinion on them, too.
amalia, did you see "The Illusionist"? I ask this because they were out at the same time here. They were similar with the whole illusionist aspect. If so, which one did you think was better?
Janine, this is another Scarlet J. film that I saw that I liked. Forgot that she was in it, though! I really liked "The Prestige". She is in there so little, though, that I didn't really get why they used a "name" as that character. Someone else could've done it just as well. I would've said that about anyone that was a "name" that they may have cast as that character.
I have this film coming next month from Netflix. :D So a positive review helps.
Was that a knife in your heart, Janine? :p
LW, how funny....you are asking amalia this question and here am I answer it from my point of view. Lets see what amalia has to say, too.
First off, I was encouraged by a friend to see this film - 'The Illusionist" and he is a big fan of Ed Norton, and he had raved and raved over the film to me; so that when I saw it I think I expected more. I don't know what it was and I still can't put my finger on what bugs me about this film. It seemed to have no life to the setting first off - it was just too tonal and dismal to me. It needed something. Visually I did not really enjoy it. It was well-constructed and interesting, although the story is really not that complex - not as complex as 'The Prestige", or so I think. I believe it was taken from a short story, which makes sense, but I could be wrong about that. I was also quite confused about the outcome and actually had to see it twice before I fully 'got it". I am still unsure and confused about that one ghost figure?illusion? wandering through the audience. I think of the two films, I liked 'The Prestige' better - I felt it had a lot more to it. I felt it was wonderfully acted and intense, with many notable surprise stars who are also fine actors, Scarlett being one (just had to get that in LW!:lol: ). I felt, maybe that in the other film, that Norton's nuanced performance was just a little too nuanced and subdued for me; some parts it felt forced or flat. I felt he could have used a little more scope and fluctuation in emotion, but he is not a particular favorite of mine, although mostly I have enjoyed him in a very 'devious' type role, like in the film with Richard Gere who defends him at a trial; sorry, I can't recall the name of that film presently.
See above comment - yes, not sure why but she was ok in it. I liked Jackman's performance and Bale did a fine job. I liked the surprises and their were quite a number of zingers. I enjoyed that! I did not like the role of the emperor for Rufus Sewel in "The Illusionist". I don't know exactly why but I thought he looked strange, maybe, in that mustashe...haha...silly me but I just did not think his performance up to par. Maybe it was the role I did not like, maybe just not my favorite role of his. Still trying to figure that film out. Actually, ever since I saw the two films (and wondered why they did two such similiar films in the same year for release...?) it has been like figuring out a magic actm as to whether I truly liked them entirely or what I thought of them finally.Quote:
Janine, this is another Scarlet J. film that I saw that I liked. Forgot that she was in it, though! I really liked "The Prestige". She is in there so little, though, that I didn't really get why they used a "name" as that character. Someone else could've done it just as well. I would've said that about anyone that was a "name" that they may have cast as that character.
So LW, which film did you like best? I am curious to know.
Oh good. Well I liked it. It all depends, if you like Zellweger. My friend can't stand her; says she hates the way she purses up her lips; but there again same friend loves Scarlett and says she is beautiful. I don't think she is at all 'beautiful', but she does have an oldtime movie star look, which I appreciate.Quote:
I have this film coming next month from Netflix. :D So a positive review helps.
Well, glad you are getting the film soon and that way we can discuss it....cool.
YES, my guy, our guy - KB was in that film and I own it. I love the film and my birthday twin, Robert Sean Leonard, starred in it.Quote:
Was that a knife in your heart, Janine? :p
amalia, I am still mortified....:lol: ....just kidding with you!
Actually, there is a part in the film - won't mention it because it would be a spoiler - that does drive a knife into my heart/soul. It involves the record collector friend - broke my heart.
i saw both of them, and they were both two of the best movies i have ever seen. i liked the illusionist better, though. i absolutly loved the ending!!!
Blades of Glory
9/10
I've seen it a million times and I laugh just as hard every time
(and that's pretty hard!!!)
Remember The Titans
10/10
I love that movie. =)
Children of Men - Pretty good. 7.5/10.
Ludicrous -5 million/10
Well, who asked you you're opinion, huh? :D Just kidding, of course! ;)
I liked "the Illusionist". It was good enough (though I do agree with the ghost illusion). I did think "The Prestige" was better, though. Yes, visually, "The Prestige" was far superior. I loved Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman in there. I just think that you had to "think" a little more with that film rather than with "The Illusionist". I liked that better. It was more complex. I wasn't crazy about Rufus Sewell in there either. I can't put my finger on what it was that I didn't like, though.
The film that I think you're talking about is "Primal Fear", with Edward Norton and Richard Gere. Did you ever see "American History X" or "25th Hour" with Ed Norton?
I am not the biggest Zellweger fan, but she is tolerable enough. She tends to be in movies that I have interest in watching. It is so funny that you should say that about her lips. A former boss of mine couldn't stand her. She'd constantly form her face that way, mimicking how she poses for pictures. It was funny because she would do it just like she does! :lol:Quote:
Oh good. Well I liked it. It all depends, if you like Zellweger. My friend can't stand her; says she hates the way she purses up her lips;
Well, glad you are getting the film soon and that way we can discuss it....cool.
I know which part you mean!Quote:
Actually, there is a part in the film - won't mention it because it would be a spoiler - that does drive a knife into my heart/soul. It involves the record collector friend - broke my heart.
Even though I thought it was very depressing, I really liked that movie, too!
Yesturday I saw Americian Gangster, and it was really good I thought, as well it did a good job of sticking to the facts pretty well and followed along what really happend.
:lol: :lol: :lol:
This would probably exactly match my assessment as well. I think someday I will have to watch both again and then I probably can get a newer prespective on each. Elements of surprise in both make the films though so more viewings might not have as much impact.Quote:
I liked "the Illusionist". It was good enough (though I do agree with the ghost illusion). I did think "The Prestige" was better, though. Yes, visually, "The Prestige" was far superior. I loved Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman in there. I just think that you had to "think" a little more with that film rather than with "The Illusionist". I liked that better. It was more complex. I wasn't crazy about Rufus Sewell in there either. I can't put my finger on what it was that I didn't like, though.
That is it and I thought Ed Norton was brilliant in that - he kept one quessing all the time - so much was going on behind that face and those dark eyes. I have never seen the other two films but heard so much about the first you mentioned. I know, I'll have to see them both now, since you recommended them.Quote:
The film that I think you're talking about is "Primal Fear", with Edward Norton and Richard Gere. Did you ever see "American History X" or "25th Hour" with Ed Norton?
:lol: How funny. I have to let my friend know about your former boss and her impersonation - my friend will really laugh. I think in this film, Miss Z plays very shy at first, which suits her and yet she has inner strength, which emerges as the film progresses. The film is a very pretty one, visually. You will enjoy the scenery so much. It is a beautifully photographed and constructed movie; also, I like the way some of her drawings come alive and are perceived in her minds eye...quite interesting. Little details make the filming nice to view, too. I like details in films.Quote:
I am not the biggest Zellweger fan, but she is tolerable enough. She tends to be in movies that I have interest in watching. It is so funny that you should say that about her lips. A former boss of mine couldn't stand her. She'd constantly form her face that way, mimicking how she poses for pictures. It was funny because she would do it just like she does! :lol:
I thought you would. Sad.Quote:
I know which part you mean!
I did that film, "Swing Kids" . What I liked about it best, besides KB,;) was that it was not just another Nazi film, but one from a entirely different perspective - the kid's - young people's perspective, as Germans. It was quite interesting to me and I thought the dancing was phenomenal. I like films with dancing, anyway.
American Ganster-8/10-Denzel Washington is an amazing actor. "My Man!" Thats the best line ever! Haha, it was a pretty good movie...a little long, I know this because I fell asleep. Not because it was boring, but because we went to the last showing of the movie and we didn't get back to my place til 2:30...we as in the group I was with. Beware of nudity(not sex) and some gore. Totally not expected! Cuba Gooding Jr. is in it as is Russell Crowe...and some other good actors.
Janine and LadyWentworth, I agree with you. I liked both films very much, but while "The Prestige" was really satisfying to me, both in terms of plot, and in terms of acting, "The Illusionist" was weaker in terms of story, regarding the combination of all things together, and Jessica Biel was unacceptable, in my opinion. I am a fan of Edward Norton, I like his way of interpreting every part, and I think that Rufus Sewell was once again, our-well, my at least- good, dark, reaaaaaaly gorgeous villain. I don't know, "The Prestige" just stayed with me days after I first watched it, something that "The Illusionist" didn't do. You understand what I am trying to say, I'm sure.
Regarding "Swing Kids", there is the big mystery! Why don't I like that film? I couldn't really say for certain, and I am always honest. It just did not convience me, I think that the parts are a little over-acted and the story was not as a tight as I would want it to be. I had heard great things about the film, but I was somewhat disappointed, although I am the hugest Greek fan of Christian Bale.
I haven't seen "Crystal", but I have seen "Copying Beethoven", and I liked it well enough. Good story, Ed Harris did a decent job, but someone must threaten Kruger not to act again. At least, not in period pieces...Apart from that, it was a "strange" movie, as you said, Janine, but it was good.
amalia, I think you have pin-pointed my problem with fully liking "The Illustionist" in this line of yours "The Illusionist' was weaker in terms of story, regarding the combination of all things together, and Jessica Biel was unacceptable, in my opinion"....wow, I totally agree with that. I thought the plot was a weakish one and I did not feel it believable at all. Magic or no magic I just could not buy into it. Also, Jessica Biel was not acceptable - you are quite right - that was one very 'weak' link. I don't think the woman has done much acting, has she? I wondered why they cast her. I also thought that the young couple, representing the two in the beginning, looked nothing like the older characters. All in all I felt the story had poor casting. I didn't really even like Paul Giamoni in this film. I did not think he fit. I guess Rufus was a gorgeous villain, but I liked him and his more multi-layered performance in other films much more than this one. I have seen him, where he plays the enemy or the villain impecable...he even over-acted in this film. That fake mustache, just did not suit him in my opinion, making the story and his performance less feasible. Have you seen Rufus Sewel in Middlemarch - the BBC miniseries? He is great and sooo sooo appealing. He is also in my DVD of "Woodlanders" - adaptation of the Thomas Hardy novel...wonderful! He played a great Akgamenon (sp?) in "Helen of Troy" - there he became a ruthless villain, but he was so handsome and multlayered, complex. He plays Fortinbras in Kenneth Branagh's fine full-length "Hamlet". He is wonderful in that, although his part is not huge. He is one of my favorite actors.
That is a good assessment and everyone is entitled to their oppinion. I agree that some parts were over-acted but all in all I liked the film, probably because I did not have any expectations going into it, as you did. I liked Christian Bale when he was younger in the film "Little Women"...did you see it? He sure was cute. He is a good actor.Quote:
Regarding "Swing Kids", there is the big mystery! Why don't I like that film? I couldn't really say for certain, and I am always honest. It just did not convience me, I think that the parts are a little over-acted and the story was not as a tight as I would want it to be. I had heard great things about the film, but I was somewhat disappointed, although I am the hugest Greek fan of Christian Bale.
I think Ed Harris did do a decent job, but I think the best scene was when he conducted the "Ode to Joy" - it was truly amazing. I do have to admit I had very mixed feeling about this film so I am glad you saw it and are commenting on it. Yes, Kruger is stunningly pretty but did she fit the role - I seriously doubt it. She is not that good really or believable. Apparently her character was based on several people so it was a sort of hybrid, or so they said on "Special features"....so she basically was fictional. I couldn't buy this pristinely clean looking beautiful movie star looking woman going to his house which was a pit of filth and working, no could I picture her doing household chores like scrubbing the floor or even bathing the mastro - come one I was saying to myself! Also inconsistent is her desire to be a independent type woman but she becomes almost a slave to his wims - so what was that all about? Photography was super interesting but can that save the film? Score also waS stunning. I think that Ed Harris did a better job on this portrayal of Pollack, the artist...another true story and real man characterization; this is why I bring it up. He was very complex in that role whereas in this role I felt he played Beethoven a little too brutish and cruel - like when he smashes that young man's bridge model. I can't picture the real man being that wild or demented. I think Harris pushed the envelop and went way overboard in some scenes like making fun of her composition - I would have strangled him with it and never stepped foot back into his filthy appartment! Also there were some crude moments I certainly could have been spared.Quote:
I haven't seen "Crystal", but I have seen "Copying Beethoven", and I liked it well enough. Good story, Ed Harris did a decent job, but someone must threaten Kruger not to act again. At least, not in period pieces...Apart from that, it was a "strange" movie, as you said, Janine, but it was good.
Gee, sounds like I just trashed the film, doesn't it? Well, I won't do that. I did think it worth viewing but would not repeat view it. It became a very exhausting film to watch.
ghost rider
not so good
especially not for Nicholas!
"Inland Empire" David Lynch 9/10...although after a while i was completely lost, but in such a pleasant way!!! The movie is visually stunning and some of the Lynchian actors star in short but memorable roles. I'd have given the film a 10/10 for the simple fact that it kept me and some other 60 people nailed to our seats for 3,5 hours and for the fact that you couldn't hear the tiniest noise in the theatre..it was like the spectators were holding their breath!
"Il Gattopardo" Lucchino Visconti 8/10. A great film, but slightly boring at parts.
Last weekend I watched Akira Kurasawa's 7 Samurai. It was very entertaining...not bad for a movie made in the 50's.
8/10
The Stand...I like the movie adaptations of the (King) books... but for comparison sake, I liked the Shining (movie) better..
8.75/10
:wave: Hi malwethien, great to see you on here again. I have missed seeing you but maybe our ships just did not pass each other lately...haha. :lol:
Well, AK was an amazing director - how can you beat it? I saw a documentary on the man and his life about a year ago; he was a genius in film. Of course his films will be some dated but I find them interesting non-the-less.
Hey, M, I hope you got my email. Thanks again for the PC!! :D
manolia, wow another David Lynch film! How cool is that? I never heard of this one. I must check it out sometime real soon. It sounds interesting and full of DL elements/symbolism/etc for another fascinating discussion - that is after I have viewed it first. :lol:
Hi manolia, Oh, now I must see it! I looked it up on Amazon and see is is available on DVD. Any chance my library will buy it, do you think? Maybe I will break down and go rent it. I still haven't seen "Lost Highway" yet either - I could make it a double feature Lynch night! Wow, talk about mind-boggling - now that really would be. I would probably mix up the two stories.
So yes, I must see it and then we can discuss it for months on end! :lol:
Hello Lady Wentworth, .....and when was your birthday??? I feel just dreadful and so embarrassed:blush: I think I missed the party. I was trying to find the thread just now....I will get there and post something nice for your B-day, belated of course...so sorry:( Please forgive me. Hope it was a great day!:bday_2:
Yes, I agree about Jessica Biel - something about her seems false and I can't put my finger on what it is, quite. Do you think she is a bad actress? I felt she was stiffling and so was Ed Norton in that film. Just something wrong with both performances....or maybe I was stiffled and it was just me.
Did anyone see "The Painted Veil" with Norton and Naomi Watts? I am just curious to know what others thought of it. I am still mulling that one over and can't make up my mind. I don't think I was that pleased with the acting.
Oh, that is Ok about being late for my birthday. After all, you made up for it by all the gifts that you bestowed upon me! :p
Do I think Jessica Biel is a bad actress? I suppose not. Would I classify her as a good actress? I don't know. Not really. I don't know. She is another person that I just consider kind of average. I really think she was an incredibly odd choice for "The Illusionist", though. Edward Norton wasn't as good as he could've been. His accent kind of irritated me.
No, I've never seen "The Painted Veil". I know it, of course. It just isn't one that I have seen yet.
kingdom of heaven
i liked it cause it was filmed on historical backgrounds plus it was filmed beautifully i had to watch till the end.
"a walk to remember" for 2nd time.
i liked it.
Perfume. It was an alright movie. I'm sure i would have injoyed it more if i hadnt been so tired.:( 6/10
No, Janine, although I like Edward Norton, Naomi Watts was the reason I didn't see "The Painted Vail"...
I'd been dying to see 30 Days of Night,
gorey, weak, hero-like movie,
i'd forgetton it was based on comic book, gosh-dern,
they never make any good vampire movies anymore; time to start watching reruns o teh darcula seqeuls i guess,
to be generous i'd say 3 STars
though i really wish i'd seen american ganster...
Amalia, well, manolia likes her and I can't decide. I don't seriously think this movie was her thing - wrong casting altogether. She was good in "Mulholand Drive"- the strange/weird David Lynch thriller, but "Painted Veil" had a lot to be desired, in my opinion. I thought that Norton again, was kind of 'wooden' in this role, but worst of all was when I saw a preview, or actually was listening to it, when I was waiting for another DVD to get to the menu; it was then I realised the script was really, really lame - it was just poorly written and delivered - you know it is so, when you can't listen to it and enjoy the lines without the picture. Maybe that can be the new litmus test for rating a film.:lol:
I've just seen "the hills have eyes". I really wonder who comes up with these ideas... I mean, the hills have eyes is just about the most bloody, gory and messy film I've ever seen. Are the people who make films like this really alright, mentally? It was better than many films of it's genre (ultra violent zombie/horror/freakshow), since had something that actually has a faint resemblance with a plot... It isn't good, and I would definately not recommend it to anyone but people who are obcessed with blood and gore.
I watched London yesterday. I came across this film by accident. There is a lot of drug use and crazy sex situations. It's about this guy Syd, played by Chris Evans, who is still in love with his ex girlfriend. He uses a lot drugs in the film and the movie keeps flashing back to key moments in their relationship. The character shouts a lot and really seems to have issues and it's no wonder he has no girlfriend.
I guess out of 10, I would give it an 8 just because it actually held my attention. All the characters were flawed and the film's conclusion was bittersweet, assuming you can muster any sympathy for this character Syd. Even if you can't muster any sympathy for Syd, the film's conclusion is satisfyingly plausible, given what we know of the characters.
I just saw Lions For Lambs, it was depressing but good.
A good year (2006, Russell Crowe)
Well, it's a feel-good film, simple plot, good actors, France, impossible to happen in real life, nice ending....
7/10
3:10 To Yuma
I loved it. It has to get a 10/10 for me. The acting was good, and it is the first really good western I've seen in a long time. Maybe it will start a trend, and there will be more like it.
I loved that movie!!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE CHRISTIAN BALE!!!!