Quick Reviews - Letter A - www.QRmovie.com




RATED 8	< PREVIOUS RATING \| NEXT RATING >
13 Conversations Abre Los Ojos After Hours Amores Perros Auto Focus Beautiful Girls Before Sunrise Ben-Hur Big Kahuna, The Blair Witch Project, The Blood: The Last Vampire Brian's Song Bridge on the River Kwai, The Brotherhood of the Wolf Bullitt Capote Catch Me If You Can Changing Lanes Charade Chicago Chicken Run China Syndrome, The City of God Confessions of a Dangerous Mind Deep End, The Delicatessen Diabolique Die Hard Die Hard 2 Don't Look Now Elephant Man, The Equilibrium Fast Times At Ridgemont High Ferris Bueller's Day Off Fireworks Following For a Few Dollars More Fresh Frida Grosse Point Blank Harry Potter: ATSS	Harvey Heavenly Creatures Hours, The Ichi the Killer King Kong Kissing Jessica Stein Last Castle, The Last Seduction, The Lawrence of Arabia Let the Right One In LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring Manhattan Menace II Society Midnight Express Minority Report Moon Narc Natural Born Killers November On Edge One Hour Photo Others, The Panic Room Pianist, The Princess and the Warrior, The Punch-Drunk Love Ref, The Ring, The Road To Perdition Rules of Attraction, The\ Sanjuro Say Anything... Seconds Sex and Lucía Silence of the Lambs Spirited Away Syriana Tadpole Third Man, The Vanilla Sky Zoolander
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13 Conversations About One Thing (2002)

8 /10

Thought provoking character driven film, dealing with finding happiness in life and uncontrollable circumstances one must deal with. Well acted across the board by the likes of Alan Arkin and John Turturro, with career standout role from McConaughey. [English, 104min, R]

Abre Los Ojos (1997)

8 /10

Source material for Cruise's Vanilla Sky is virtually identical, with all plot twists just as effective although Penelope Cruz has more fleshed out character. Plot-critical face makeup FX is less successful than in American remake. [Spanish, 117min, R]

After Hours (1985)

8.5 /10

Criminally under-seen Martin Scorsese dark comedy has Griffin Dunne as a bored office worker who's late night date with a sexy young Rosanna Arquette leads to a Muphy's Law escalation of strange events. Expertly shot with Hitchcockian flare that makes most of NYC locations, most notably the eerie empty SoHo streets. John Herd, Teri Garr, and a very neurotic Catherine O'Hara make up colorful supporting cast. Clever Howard Shore synth score nicely accents increasingly bizarre circumstances. [English, 96min, R] 5/09

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Amores Perros (2000)

8 /10

Three part movie centered around a spectacular car crash has excellent performances across the board, unfortunately ultra high energy of first story surrounding brutal underground dog fighting isn't matched in latter two. Incredibly assured directorial debut from Alejandro González Iñárritu. [Spanish, 153min, R]

Auto Focus (2002)

8.5 /10

Newest entry in "downward spiral" genre; tells the story of 70's TV star Bob Crane's career ending obsession with sex. Suffers standard issues of off putting and depressing material, but elevated tremendously by Greg Kinnear's impressively convincing lead performance (deserving Oscar attention). Excellent recreation of time period, and quite fascinating when dealing with first generation video equipment. Dafoe adds another creepy role to his resume, playing Crane's pivotal best friend. [English, 105min, R]

Beautiful Girls (1996)

8 /10

Well written story of a group of men and their views on relationships with some very funny moments. A young Natalie Portman makes a strong impression post-Leon. [English, 112min, R]

Before Sunrise (1995)

8 /10

Extremely grounded "infatuation story" which captures all the awkward moments and natural conversation while defying movie conventions. Hawke and Delpy create a rich, natural chemistry that becomes backbone of movie. [English, 105min, R]

Ben-Hur (1959)

8 /10

Grandiose epic with Heston commanding in lead and featuring amazing chariot race sequence, but gets bogged down with heavy Biblical angle (reliance on religious themes is one of it's faults). Despite massive production, film did not need full three and a half hours. [Spanish, 212min, G]

The Big Kahuna (1999)

8 /10

Is preaching about Jesus any different than selling lubricants? That's one of many loaded question tackled head on in this compelling character study built around a then-sizzling Kevin Spacey and a surprising full-drama mode Danny DeVito. Theater roots lead to an hour and a half of continuous conversation, questioning everything from job commitment to a purpose in life. Climactic confrontations are stellar displays of writing and acting, especially DeVito's phenomenal speech on "character." [English, 90min, R]

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

8.5 /10

Immensely polarizing, landmark Indie film overcomes cliché horror setup (three college students lost in woods) with novel concept of "actors" shooting footage themselves, resulting in hyper-real depiction of paranoia and fear. Despite falling into uninspired Real World-style arguments one time too many, limited budget results in truly terrifying less-is-more moments, in particular a late night tent attack and the chilling climactic cabin sequence. [English, 86min, R] 5/09

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Blood: The Last Vampire (2000)

8 /10

A school girl hunting vampires in 1960's Japan? I'm sold. Definitely lacking story, but the animation is a visual treat; short and sweet. A must see for any fans of Anime. [Japanese, 48min, NR]

Brian's Song (1971)

8 /10

Emotionally charged TV movie from back when TV movies were good. Billy Dee Williams and James Caan are football rookies competing for the spotlight who become close friends, despite racial differences. Then tragedy strikes in the form of cancer leading to a final act that is devastating with a capital "D." [English, 73min, G]

The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

8 /10

Alec Guinness is especially good in this classic war movie. Character tension at camp is the strongest attribute but is discarded right when it gets interesting for lesser characters; makes up with suspenseful finish. [English, 161min, PG]

Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001)

8 /10

Completely over the top mixing of Kung-fu and fantasy genres, anchored in 18-century France. Bites off too much at times (no pun intended) but wonderful photography, beautiful women (Belucci is seductive as ever), and sheer creative ambition, make for a largely unique, engrossing film experience. [French, 142min, R]

Bullitt (1968)

8.5 /10

Hard hitting, violent detective story featuring excellent camera work, one of the best filmed car chases in history, and Steve McQueen as the ultimate cool cop. Surprisingly ahead of it's time with style and content. [English, 113min, PG]

Capote (2005)

8.5 /10

Yes, Phillip Seymour Hoffman really is as brilliant as everyone says, but what truly makes this biopic of famous eccentric author excel is insight into his thought and writing process. Multi-layered relationship between Capote and convicted murderer Percy Smith is backbone of story, and pays off strongly thanks to deliberately structured interactions (final confession is surprisingly jarring). Well photographed with particularly noteworthy use of extreme wide shots that at times resemble framed artwork. [English, 114min, R]

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

8 /10

After years of historic recreations and challenging sci-fi dramas, Spielberg returns to trademark family fare with highly entertaining, if surprise free, results. DiCapro, very much the star, balances confidence of deception and fear of youth as famous 1960's con-boy Frank Abagnale. Hanks makes a light turn, aiding cat ‘n’ mouse relationship that is emotional core of story. Real surprise is Christopher Walken's truly moving performance. [English, 141min, PG-13]

Changing Lanes (2002)

8 /10

Refreshing product from the Hollywood movie machine: instead of a standard revenge story, this drama focuses on character emotions and life style differences during a "worst case scenario." Affleck puts forth one of his best efforts and Jackson is reliable as usual. [English, 99min, R]

Charade (1963)

8 /10

Cary Grant (as a con-artist) and Audrey Hepburn (as an unknowingly wealthy widow) have that special old school chemistry in this entertaining romantic comedy thriller. Sarcastic banter and growing attraction between the two results in a number of memorable scenes. Walter Matthau stands out as dry, yet very funny CIA agent. Has problems in middle when danger is portrayed less seriously, making tone too light, before raising stakes for final stretch. [English, 113min, NR]

Chicago (2002)

8 /10

Largely entertaining return to traditionally based Hollywood musical, full of visually captivating dance choreography, elaborate stage sets, and surprising turns by marquee cast. Zellweger, no doubt impressive if not very likable, is star of story, but it’s Richard Gere who steals spotlight along with supporting cast, leaving Catherine Zetta-Jones shortchanged on screen time. Musical numbers are effectively integrated as character’s inner-monologues. [English, 113min, R]

Chicken Run (2000)

8 /10

Nick Park doesn't disappoint with his first feature-length claymation film. Clever humor, fun movie references, and thrilling visual sequences aid a plot that actually improves as it progresses. [English, 84min, G]

The China Syndrome (1979)

8 /10

Book-ended by two exceptionally tense scenes, this unsettling look at a potential nuclear meltdown stings with documentary-like rawness. Acting by leads is outstanding, especially Lemmon, who embodies fear with unnerving authenticity as whistle blowing plant worker. Despite minor strains in credibility, a penetrating look at hazards of nuclear power, red tape of news reporting, and "money-over-safety" mantra of big corporations. [English, 122min, PG]

City of God (2002)

8.5 /10

Hard hitting gangster epic told with Goodfellas style flair maximizes it’s South American setting, though distinct style at times overwhelms substance. Aspiring photographer trying to escape titular city provides fly-on-wall narration, detailing brutal violence in jump-around chronology. Intertwined character stories are effectively unified by Shakespearian themes, ending on twisted note of hope. Lil Dice makes for wickedly memorable “bad seed.” [Portuguese, 130min, R]

Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (2002)

8.5 /10

Clooney thankfully avoids blatantly imitating Soderbergh, instead taking an "inspired-by" approach for a visually unique, highly entertaining biopic. Sam Rockwell delivers an all-out star performance as TV-trash father Chuck Barris, carrying story through it’s diverse emotional territory. Kaufman’s humorous, semi-surreal treatment of source material allows outrageous aspects of CIA spy story to cleverly coexist with standard "fall from success" timeline. [English, 113min, R]

The Deep End (2001)

8 /10

Extremely well shot film noir-ish story of a mother willing to do almost anything to hide a murder that involved her son...who also happens to be a closet gay. Plot twists around conventions often and Tilda Swinton is impressive, but never emotionally engages. [English, 101min, R]

Delicatessen (1991)

8.5 /10

Years before the stunning Amélie, Jenut made his feature length debut with this remarkably original, surreal dark comedy. Dominique Pinon leads wholly eccentric cast as quirky’n’charming ex-circus star taking refuge in an apartment of situational cannibals during post-apocalyptic future (!). Whether it’s elaborately staged suicide attempts, a bed-squeak induced music number, or the intricately woven mayhem of finale, every scene thrives on pure imagination. [French, 99min, R]

Diabolique (1955)

8 /10

Slow burning thriller has passive wife seeking revenge against abusive husband with help from his no nonsense mistress. Strong suspense in first half as both women plan and commit murder, only to have the body vanish. Rest of film is an increasingly tense journey, as the wife, played to great paranoid effect by Véra Clouzot, tries to uncover the truth. Last revelation is a shocker, especially considering it’s time, and imitated countless times since. [French, 114min, NR]

Die Hard (1988)

8 /10

A on the verge of stardom Bruce Willis tears through one liners AND terrorists in this explosive (pun intended) pre-CGI invested 80's action movie that almost single-handedly defined the genre for a decade (along with it's sequels). Alan Rickman chews scenery as German hostage-taker mastermind and all around bad man. A pre-Family Matters Reginald VelJohnson has entertaining rapport with Willis throughout movie. [English, 131min, R]

Die Hard 2 (1990)

8 /10

Exciting, over-the-top sequel to the groundbreaking action original features plenty of cool action pieces and fun self aware humor, although the underdeveloped villain, blandly played by William Sadler's, leaves more to be desired. Contains a rather horrific tragedy half way in that is especially disturbing in post-911 world, and for same reason would be taboo today. [English, 124min, R]

Don't Look Now (1973)

8 /10

Director Nicolas Roeg's creepy hypnotic thriller is reminiscent of The Wicker Man in its slow burning dread and sinister, cryptic plot. Opens with tragic drowning of couple's daughter, phenomenally edited through intercut matched action, a technique used to brilliant effect during the film's much lauded love scene. Donald Sutherland, as unraveling father, carries story though lapses in logic, leading to a shocking conclusion (albeit slightly unsatisfying). Water logged labyrinth of Venice is utilized well. [English, 110min, R]

The Elephant Man (1980)

8 /10

The often inconsistent David Lynch was at his most focused here (along with Blue Velvet), adding his share of controlled weirdness to story of famous Victorian era deformed man John Merrick. John Hurt is very good under all the makeup as titular character and his relationship with Anthony Hopkins, as a London doctor, is quite touching lending to a poignant conclusion. [English, 124min, PG]

Equilibrium (2002)

8 /10

Unfairly lost in the shadow of The Matrix, this solid B level sci-fi actioner depicts an "emotionless" future society, borrowing unapologetically from 1984. The always intense Christian Bale classes up the proceedings as a brutal law enforcer who has a reawakening after skipping his daily dose of mega-Prozac. What follows is a highly entertaining Man vs. Big Brother showdown, thick with multi-layered conspiracy and truly inspired fight sequences, particularly in the open and closing moments. [English, 103min, R] 5/09

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Fast Times At Ridgemont High (1982)

8.5 /10

Serves as a sad reminder of how much the teen movie empire has fallen. Cleverly funny and not afraid of sex (or nudity!), this is one of the ultimate high school films. Featuring the iconic Sean Penn role of surfer-stoner Jeff Spicoli and of course, the uber-famous Phoebe Cates pool-side topless scene. [English, 90min, R]

Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)

8 /10

A genre classic with a career defining performance by Matthew Broderick, who may never eclipse role recognition. Made towards the end of John Hughes 80's hot streak, which included most of the era's most well known teen comedies, this high schooler "fantasy" has a number of memorable scenes and characters, serving as a reminder of how crappy these kinds of movies have become. [English, 102min, PG-13]

Fireworks (1997)

8.5 /10

Ying-Yang grouping of graphic violence and absolute tranquility. Uses silence better than most movies use sound, built around Japanese superstar Takeshi Kitano's ultra-understated performance as a cop dealing with an injured colleague and a dying wife. Ends on a devastating, graceful note that is far too provocative for American film to attempt. [Japanese, 103min, R]

Following (1998)

8.5 /10

Short'n'sweet noir from Memento director Christopher Nolan, particularly impressive considering it was shot with friends as actors on weekends over the course of a year. Budgetary limitations are transcended by intriguing premise that toys with chronology while packing some good surprises along the way. Definitely worth making an effort to watch, especially from a director evolution standpoint. [English, 69min, R]

For A Few Dollars More (1965)

8.5 /10

Leone aggressively raises the ante from A Fistful of Dollars by giving Eastwood more personality and adding great revenge story to anchor some superb shoot offs. Volonté's "bad guy" is just as good here and excellent music score critically enhances drama during pivotal moments. [Italian, 130min, R]

Fresh (1994)

8 /10

An intriguing, powerful inner city drama that makes unique stylistic choices (especially in the music & cinematography department) that defy genre expectations. Helped by an outstanding cast and screenplay that create powerful, assured drama. One of the best films to be centered around a child character. [English, 114min, R]

Frida (2002)

8 /10

Salma Hayek is perfectly cast in this stylish biopic that avoids normal superficial trappings of genre. Wisely skips overdone "painter at work" montages, making artwork an extension of Frida Kahlo's tormented subconscious. Exceptional art direction, cinematography, and music enhance every scene, not to mention many star filled cameos. Alfred Molina also fairs well as unfaithful longtime lover. Good pacing, but episodic structure leaves murky areas towards end. [English, 123min, R]

Grosse Point Blank (1997)

8 /10

Effective black comedy with Cusack in top form as hit man on verge of reforming when his 10 year high school reunion pops up while on assignment. Quirky romance with Minnie Driver is refreshing, during what may have been her best acting years. Successfully walks line between harsh violence and light tone: a rarity. Dan Aykroyd makes impression as rival hit man in one of his few memorable roles of past decade. [English, 107min, R]

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone (2001)

8 /10

After all these years, finally a good big budget production. Christopher Columbus creates a vivid world of magic not seen since the 80's, allowing the story of the now famous "special wizard" to thrive. The unknown kid actors range from adequate to good, but the real standout is Alan Rickman as the eccentric sinister Professor Snipe. [English, 152min, PG]

Harvey (1950)

8 /10

Jimmy Stewart gives a great subdued performance in this tale of a man and his imaginary (?) 6-foot rabbit friend. Only hindered by sometimes stagy feel left from play adaptation and "easy" happy ending, though ambiguity on titular creature's existence is nice. [English, 104min, NR]

Heavenly Creatures (1994)

8 /10

Director Peter Jackson left behind killer aliens, crude muppets, and zombie gore to craft this strikingly original tale inspired by unnerving true events. Channeling the eerie foreboding of Weir's Picnic At Hanging Rock, the film opens with a horrific glimpse at the tragic results of an obsessive childhood friendship between two social outcasts (one played by a stunning Kate Winslet in screen debut). Visual flourishes and inspired fantasy sequences invite viewer into sad, surreal world of unhinged minds. [English, 108min, R]

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The Hours (2002)

8.5 /10

Uniquely structured drama simultaneous occurs in three time periods, resulting in intriguing story parallels and distinctive performances (aided by exceptionally powerful musical score). Kidman makes greatest departure from previous work as mentally disturbed author, acting as backbone for women relationship theme. Julianne Moore stands out amidst solid female cast, though Ed Harris is uncomfortably effective as dying poet. [English, 114min, PG-13]

Ichi the Killer (2001)

8.5 /10

Relentlessly gruesome, operatically violent crime drama with a hint of dark humor, featuring two instantly memorable, completely psychotic characters. One is a flamboyant sadist who spends entire movie graphically (!) torturing to find his missing mob boss (while sporting a surgically "enhanced" mouth). The other, a mysterious crime fighter with retractable heel blades, slices and dices through the criminal underworld when not dwelling on traumatic childhood. Phew! Suffers from overkill towards the end. [Japanese, 129min, NR]

King Kong (2005)

8.5 /10

Jackson's $200 million upgrade of classic 1930's film is equal parts stunningly ambitious and self-indulgently bloated. Recreation of Depression Era NYC is absolutely spectacular in authenticity and Kong himself goes down as most accomplished computer generated character in cinema history, conveying complex emotions more effectively than human cast (excluding a heartbreaking Naomi Watts). In spite of flaws, an often extraordinary convergence of technology and entertainment. [English, 187min, PG-13]

Kissing Jessica Stein (2001)

8.5 /10

Tackles difficult subject of same-sex relationship and excels more than most straight relationship movies do. Good writing and some great acting merge into very natural characters; surprisingly potent scenes of drama add to lighter plot elements. [English, 97min, R]

The Last Castle (2001)

8 /10

By-the-numbers "group of guy's coming together despite differences" action/drama. However, it follows through so well that lack of originality is forgiven; Redford and Gandolfini (sporting a vulnerable lisp) make good opponents. [English, 131min, R]

The Last Seduction (1994)

8 /10

Linda Fiorentino, as a very sexy femme fatale, is in the league of Kathleen Turner in Body Heat. A tight little film that sizzles on emotional and sexual manipulation, topped off with reasonable plot twists and a few surprising revelations. [English, 110min, R]

Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

8.5 /10

Amazingly well made movie (especially in the cinematography department). Epic in every sense of the word but emotionally unstable title character, played otherwise superbly by Peter O'Toole, is difficult to relate to. Fully lives up to the cliché of "they definitely don't make 'em like this anymore." [English, 216min, PG]

Let the Right One In (2008)

8 /10

A provocative tale of friendship between alienated youths? Or a sinister manipulation fed by animalistic survival? Interpretation aside, Swedish director Thomas Alfredson exquisitely photographed horror-drama humanizes the vampire genre in ways not seen since 1996's Habit. Both child leads impress, particularly Lina Leandersson, exuding a wisdom and sexuality beyond her years as Eli. Violence arrives in vicious, stylized bursts, no better realized than in the jaw-dropping poolside finale. [Swedish, 115min, R] 6/09

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LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

8.5 /10

One of the largest productions of the last 10 years pays off with breathtaking images creating a fantasy world unlike any before (and there's still 2 movies left!). Single most impressive aspect is the acting, typically sub-par for this genre, here elevated by likes of Ian McKellen, Christopher Lee, and Ian Holm...not to mention impressive turn by lil Elijah Wood. Hard to believe this is the same Peter Jackson that made Frightners in '96. [English, 178min, PG-13]

Manhattan (1979)

8 /10

More searing relationship commentary from Woody Allen; well shot in B&W with solid performances (especially Hemingway) and plenty of quirky humor. Great use of classical music throughout. [English, 96min, R]

Menace II Society (1993)

8 /10

Heavy drama graphically depicts violent L.A. ghetto life without giving any easy answers. Hughes brothers, incredibly only 22 at time of production, craft an exceptionally mature movie for their age making most out of then-unknown cast. Newcomers Tyrin Turner and Lorenz Tate give impressive, authentic performances. [English, 97min, R]

Midnight Express (1978)

8 /10

Harrowing, true account of young man's imprisonment in Turkish prison for minor drug possession. Brad Davis is absolutely commanding in lead role and should have at least been nominated for an Oscar. Opening sequence is one of the more intense filmed. [English, 121min, R]

Minority Report (2000)

8 /10

Spielberg crafts an excellent dark action flick with Cruise in top form, including masterfully done sequences of suspense and excitement. Then there's the A.I.esk forced happy ending that dumbs down major plot revelation for a 2 year old while bathing in sappy drama. Definitely worth seeing, but could have been 2000's Blade Runner. [English, 145min, R]

Moon (2009)

8 /10

Mainstream recognition continues to elude Sam Rockwell, despite a filmography defined by memorable, emotionally honest performances. Here, as a man coping with utter isolation, he is totally captivating. First time director Duncan Jones crafts an efficient, paranoid sci-fi thriller that borrows heavily from 2001 (Kevin Spacey does an entertaining "HAL"), yet manages to pose fresh, provocative questions about the ethical consequences of technology. Clint Mansell’s eerie score is a standout. [English, 97in, R] 6/09

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Narc (2002)

8.5 /10

Gritty throwback to 1970’s cop dramas puts refreshing spin on age-old devices with stylized presentation and dynamic relationship between leads. Ray Liotta practically runs on diesel, ferocious as hardened veteran officer avenging his partner’s death, though Jason Patric holds his own as more reserved counterpart. While depiction of brutal criminal world is effective, it’s the quieter dramatic moments shared by both that elevate story past genre trappings. [English, 105min, R]

Natural Born Killers (1994)

8 /10

Stylistically one of the most ambitious movies ever made, utilizing numerous film and tape stocks to craft acid flashback on 1990s. Works great as black comedy for first half, then gets darker and less likable for conclusion including violent prison riot. Harrelson and Lewis are great as twisted Bonnie & Clyde like killers. [English, 118min, R]

November (2004)

8 /10

Heavily cerebral “mourning drama,” inventively shot and edited on low budget, anchored by Courtney Cox’s refreshingly understated performance. Premise of coping with death takes early, convoluted turns, eventually questioning significant details about pivotal murder that opens film. Includes many uncomfortable, creepy moments in first half, becoming nearly indecipherable in last third before final moments answer questions with unexpected emotional charge. [English, 73min, R]

On Edge (2001)

8 /10

Very funny mockumentary on world of figure skating that manages to keep energy high and humor strong all the way through. Contains one of film's most comically disgusting characters played surprisingly by famous skater Scott Hamilton. Jason Alexander provides a decent understated performance almost making up for Shallow Hal. [English, 93min, PG-13]

One Hour Photo (2002)

8 /10

Possibly the first time in Robin Williams career that he has immersed himself in a character to the point of non recognition. As Sy 'the photo guy' he gives a haunting, disturbed performance of social isolation that manages all at once to be pathetic, menacing, unstable, and sympathetic. Stark "Kubrickian" cinematography fully utilizes sterilized mega-mart atmosphere. [English, 96min, R]

The Others (2000)

8 /10

Best haunted house movie since The Changeling (which it near-blatantly rips off towards the end), succeeds using old school mentality of less is more, sounds are creepier than in-you-face special FX, and creating a strong atmosphere is key. Some truly unnerving sequences and a sensational showing by Nicole Kidman, who could get an Oscar nod. [English, 104min, PG-13]

Panic Room (2002)

8 /10

David Fincher takes a simple premise and builds a stylish cat n' mouse thriller. Awesome opening credits, clever camerawork, and intense, exciting scenes throughout. Acting is solid with Whitaker putting forth his best in a while, and a nice thuggish turn by a dread-haired Jared Leto. Next movie, however, needs to get back to Fight Club complexity. [English, 112min, R]

The Pianist (2002)

8.5 /10

Proves itself a worthy post-Schindler’s List contribution, telling an exceptionally intimate story of one man’s survival, minus manipulative emotion or self-important presentation. Andrien Brody is potently understated as gifted Jewish musician hiding outside walls of Warsaw ghetto, with much of latter half literally seen though his eyes via POV camera angles. Eloquent in it's use of restraint and haunting in it's depiction of war torn landscapes. [Various, 150min, R]

The Princess and the Warrior (2000)

8.5 /10

Excellent follow-up to Run Lola Run; enchanting story of intersecting lives ambitiously takes on multiple genres with striking imagery and great music score. Captivating from start to finish, even if a little long. [German, 135min, R]

Punch-Drunk Love (2002)

8.5 /10

P.T. Anderson makes his most simple movie yet with this surreal and at times downright strange take on "boy meets girl." Any doubters of Adam Sandler's acting range should be silenced as he creates a sympathetic issue-ridden protagonist; low on self-esteem but big on heart. Although at times slightly pretentious in it's direction, P.T.'s creative risks yield a number of memorable results (hotel kiss is one of them). Noteworthy use of sound, music, and color throughout. [English, 95min, R]

The Ref (1994)

8 /10

Whacky holiday tale with married couple held hostage by fugitive burglar. Bounces back and forth from comedy to drama well (if not a little too much) and Denis Leary is fun in one of his better film roles. [English, 93min, R]

The Ring (2002)

8.5 /10

Has underdeveloped characters, unanswered questions, and pacing issues in the second half, but when the scares come...holy (bleep). Without a doubt the most effective American horror movie since the genres hay day in the 70's and 80's. Takes it's intriguing premise of a cursed video tape so serious that even the most outlandish scenes have a grounded quality. TV static has never been so menacing! [English, 115min, PG-13]

Road To Perdition (2002)

8.5 /10

So exceptionally well made and containing so many good performances (Newman stands out, Hanks is darker than ever, Law is effectively creepy) that it is easy to overlook rather simplistic story line and underdeveloped characters. Contains some of the most awe inspiring cinematography in years. [English, 117min, R]

The Rules of Attraction (2002)

8.5 /10

Wow! This dark teen comedy is an absolutely invigorating film experience, changing tone with the energy of microwaved tin foil. Van Der Beek torches his Dawson persona as a grade A charismatic a-hole; a career best. All others fair well, but it’s Russell Sams who chews up his short hilarious scenes like a rabid dog on speed. Real star is hyperactive camera work and editing, that, along with an 80’s pop soundtrack, lead to moments of cinematic brilliance. [English, 110min, R]

Sanjuro (1962)

8 /10

Sequel to Yojimbo has mercenary Sanjuro in new town, aiding group of inexperienced Samurai. Injected with humor and well choreographed swordplay but truly excels during extremely potent face-off climax that ends in a shocking (!) explosion of violence. [Japanese, 96min, PG-13]

Say Anything... (1989)

8 /10

Solid 80's teen romance flick that gives good perspectives on relationships and an accurate depiction of high school life. Jon Cusack is strong in his quirky role, but John Mahoney is standout with his emotionally complex character. [English, 100min, PG-13]

Seconds (1966)

8.5 /10

Highly innovative 1966 film with hyper active cinematography (predating Requiem For a Dream's attatcho-cam by over 30 years) and creepy twisted sci-fi plot, exceptionally disturbing for it's time, but no less potent today. A movie that truly pushed the boundaries of cinema, even if it took decades to earn the proper respect. [English, 100min, R]

Sex and Lucía (2002)

8 /10

Struggling writer with a past meets bold woman admirer as he writes latest novel. Serpentine plot weaves through chronology, increasingly blurring boundaries of author's fiction while focusing on their sexually charged relationship (highly explicit!). Though at times mildly confusing, this complex puzzle of interlocking characters comes into powerful clarity by end, giving much to think about. [Spanish, 128min, R]

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

8.5 /10

Imitated countless times but never matched, this is a rare case of superior acting and directing in a genre normally lacking it. Anthony Hopkin’s creates one of modern cinemas most notorious villains in Hannibal Lector, with a performance light years ahead of watered down version he portrays in the sequels. Jodie Foster shows how effective reaction shots can be during their intense plexi-glass divided interpl8min, R]

Spirited Away (2002)

8 /10

Wildly imaginative adventure reminiscent of Alice In Wonderland, overflowing with a vivid cast of characters and creatures no where to be found in American animation. Starts swiftly, as young girl Chihiro is trapped in world of spirits, separated from her parents, and forced to work for eventual freedom. While her obstacle filled journey contains many exciting, wondrous moments, the sheer length is slightly overwhelming. [Japanese, 125min, PG]

Syriana (2005)

8 /10

No, a degree in rocket science is NOT needed to understand complexities of this engrossing exploration of global oil business - just some patience. Anchored by a sad and understated George Clooney as long-time CIA operative who discovers his patriotic work has devastating ulterior motives. An intricate dissection of world wide corruption where money is prioritized far higher than human life, or nearly everything else. Most intriguing is the very credible argument that it is all necessary for our way of life to exist. [English, 126min, R]

Tadpole (2002)

8.5 /10

Mini-DV feature with entertaining story of extremely bright 15 year old in love with his stepmother. Aaron Stanford plays titular character perfectly and rest of cast is equally as effective. Good example of video being shot like film and working. [English, 78min, PG-13]

The Third Man (1949)

8 /10

For nearly half it’s running time, a disappointingly drab whodunit…then Orson Welles emerges from the shadows, in spectacular character entrance fashion, and the film builds to a masterful final act. Incredibly rich B&W cinematography makes full use of war-torn Vienna, as during climactic Harry Lime sewer chase (a nugget of cinematic perfection) and hauntingly memorable final shot. Drama is surprisingly enhanced by upbeat music score. [English, 93min, NR]

Vanilla Sky (2001)

8.5 /10

An intriguing, wild emotional ride through a surreal twisted plot that's unsettling, exhilarating, and nearly every other emotion - Cruise's "WTF?!" expression on the poster says it all. Becomes nearly incomprehensible two-thirds in, almost self-destructing before answering major questions in a satisfying, unexpected way. Tom Cruise's most challenging role to date (Born on the 4th of July a closer runner up), sees him startlingly vulnerable and in sections, horrifically disfigured. [English, 136min, R]

Zoolander (2001)

8 /10

Ben Stiller directs and acts in this refreshingly original, frequently absurd comedy about the worlds dumbest male super model. Scenes like a tragic gas station accident set to Wham! or a David Bowie led "dance off" have an inspired lunacy, though at times movie is too stupid for it's own good. Wilson and Stiller have solid chemistry (echoed in later pairings), while Will Ferrell gives 110% as crazed fashion designer Mugatu. Numerous fun celeb cameos are sprinkled throughout. [English, 89min, PG-13]

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