Displaying Review 6 - 10 of 11 in total

• So that was the 80s ? — for Highlander
  Written by Simzilla on 21.01.2023

  The film is about immortals who can only die when beheaded and have been battling for centuries, and the last one alive will win "The Prize".

  The film has a unique and intriguing premise, but its execution leaves something to be desired. The pacing is slow in parts and the story jumps around in time without clear explanations, decreasing the spectator focus. The special effects, while impressive for the time, appear dated now, just like the vision of the ultimate bad guy, being far more ridiculous than he is scary.

  The performances are also a mixed bag, with Christopher Lambert as the lead giving a wooden and unengaging performance. On the other hand, Sean Connery as his mentor, Ramirez, gives a strong and charismatic performance.

  To remain on stars giving, the last fight contains timeless shots and the soundtrack by Queen adds to the film's epic feel.

  However, it does not make up for the film's shortcomings.

• Nun Taken — for The Sound of Music
  Written by Simzilla on 22.01.2023

  What a masterpiece filled with laughters, tears and incredible music !

  Even though it may sounds and looks just a little bit cheesy, you have to acknowledge the healing power of music.
  It manages to turn undeservedly deprived of attention (thus rude) children into regular (thus charming) ones.

  The "sassy" captain Von Trap (Christopher Plummer) is also warmed by music and learn to love again, both his children and their governess Maria (Julie Andrews).

  The songs are amazing, with a great austrian touch and consequently as enchanting as a waltz. The austrian touch also provides an overall consistency to the musical atmosphere and to the movie.

  As well, Austria plays a huge role in this movie. The beautiful landscapes, from the massive green mountains to Von Trap's villa, including Salzburg's architecture, strenghten the beauty of a story taking place in a territory threatened by Nazism.

  The story is all the more powerful given that it was inspired by real events.

• What happens when you do your homework properly — for The Pelican Brief
  Written by Simzilla on 24.01.2023

  "The Pelican Brief" is a suspenseful and thrilling film that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
  Directed by Alan J. Pakula, the film stars Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington in lead roles, and they both deliver powerful performances.

  The plot follows Roberts' character, a law student named Darby Shaw, as she uncovers a conspiracy involving the murders of two Supreme Court justices, and teams up with Washington's character, a journalist, to uncover the truth. The film is based on the bestselling novel of the same name by John Grisham, and it does a great job of bringing the story to life on the big screen.

  One of the main asset of this movie lies in its title. The whole story, the whole ordeal of Darby Shaw is based on a student theory almost innocently named after an endangered bird, largely glorified by a great opening scene.

  The pacing is brisk, the suspense is sometimes palpable, and the plot is simple but full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.

• Today's assignment : kick some a** ! — for The School of Rock
  Written by Simzilla on 26.01.2023

  "School of Rock" is a rousing and entertaining tale that showcases the talents of actor Jack Black in a way that is both endearing and unforgettable. The film, directed by Richard Linklater, tells the story of Dewey Finn, a slacker and struggling musician who, after being kicked out of his band, poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school.

  Once there, Dewey discovers a group of musically gifted students and sets out to form a rock band with them, with the ultimate goal of winning a local Battle of the Bands competition.

  The gap between Dewey's goals and prep school kids' is largely responsible for the fun and kind conciliation bewteen those two entities.

  Along the way, Dewey not only teaches the kids how to rock, but also learns valuable lessons about responsibility and the importance of following your dreams.

  Black is a force of nature as Dewey, delivering a performance that is equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. He is able to convey the character's charm and vulnerability, as well as his passion for music, with ease. The young cast is also impressive, with standout performances from Joan Cusack as the school's principal and the child actors playing the band members.

  The film's soundtrack is a highlight, featuring classic rock tunes. The musical numbers are well-choreographed and expertly executed, adding to the film's energy and excitement.

  The last concert literally gives goosebump and is an absolute crowd-pleaser.

• The Great Beauty's tree... and the forest behind — for La grande bellezza
  Written by Simzilla on 27.01.2023

  In front of Jep Gambardella, Roma and its great beauty. Behind Jep and Roma, a paralysing atmosphere built with mundanities, classy boredom, and a sense of unfinished.

  This atmosphere is disguised behind Roma’s timeless appeal and Sorrentino’s pleasing light. The whole movie seems to be a declaration of love to Roma (the closing credits along the Tevere confirms it).

  It is also disguised by the Italian phlegm and class of Jep, by the odness of his life and by his eventful nights.

  However, the dichotomy is clear. Each time he wakes up, Jep is alone, getting older while he thinks about his first love and first novel, both reminding him happier days.

  Still this movie makes you want to speak Italian, dress well and live in Italy.

  In that way, as a very young and inexperienced cinephile, this film reminded me of Fellini’s 8 ½ . Women, childhood and religion (spirituality) takes a huge place in the main character’s philosophy. Poetic landscapes and powerful monuments both gives the character a great stature while reminding him of his human condition : you’re barely someone against the strength of time and History.