Reviews
The Bridges of Madison County (1995)
A brilliant movie!
I love "The Bridges of Madison County." Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood, two of the best actors of their generation, have surprisingly amazing chemistry. It's a beautiful story of a lonely housewife and a photographer who comes into her life for 4 days in the summer of 1965. Although the love was inevitably doomed, because Francesca is married, they never cease loving each other, even at death.
"The Bridges of Madison County" is a fantastic movie, brilliantly directed by Clint Eastwood. Streep and Eastwood both give unspeakably magnificent performances. This is a must-see movie for anyone, but especially anyone who loves a great romantic drama. I highly recommend it!
In the Line of Fire (1993)
Easily one of Eastwood's best
"In the Line of Fire" is a magnificent movie! I can't imagine anyone other than Clint Eastwood in the role of Frank Horrigan, a Secret Service agent with a haunted past. John Malkovich gives, in my opinion, the greatest performance of his already stellar career. Nominated for 3 Oscars, including a Best Supporting Oscar nomination for Malkovich, "In the Line of Fire" is one of the best movies of the 90's, and one that needs to be seen. I highly recommend this movie!
Airplane! (1980)
One of the funniest movies I've ever seen...plain and simple!
How can I possibly put into words just how funny this movie is? Sure, some of the jokes are more silly than witty, but sometimes, isn't that the best kind of humor? It's also great to see some fantastic stars known more for their serious work being funny as hell in this movie! "Airplane!" is one of those movies that has so many classic quotes that make you laugh hysterically every time you hear them. I dare you to attempt to make it through this movie without laughing. If nothing else, watch it to see June Cleaver jive talking! I give this movie a very enthusiastic 10 out of 10!
Separate Tables (1958)
This is David Niven's movie...
David Niven, who was never given the credit he deserved for his enormous talent, gives the performance of his career in "Separate Tables." Instead of playing the perpetual nice guy, he is a definite shady character. He deceives everyone into believing that he's a reputable person, especially shy Deborah Kerr. But soon, it is revealed that he's not the person he appears to be, with possible disastrous outcomes...
Featuring a fantastic all-star cast, including Burt Lancaster, Rita Hayworth, and Rod Taylor, "Separate Tables" seems to be a forgotten masterpiece. It was nominated for 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress, and won two...including one for the magnificent David Niven. I highly recommend this movie!
Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison (1957)
One of Huston's best
I absolutely love this movie! It's a great character study of a nun and a Marine who questions religion, both marooned on an island. With only each other as company, the two become close...very close. Sister Angela has not taken her final vows yet, and Corporal Allison is wondering if he should admit his true feelings for her.
Beside fighting their growing love for each other, Sister Angela and Allison must defend themselves against the Japanese, who may discover their secret hiding place at anytime. With action, hints of romance, and great drama, "Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison" is a must-see movie. You'll appreciate this movie even more if you've seen Huston's "The African Queen." You'll notice some similarities in the stories.
I think this is my favorite role Robert Mitchum ever played. He is tough as nails, but also sweet and tender when it comes to his feelings and treatment of Sister Angela. And Deborah Kerr is brilliant in her Oscar nominated role. Bottom line: see this movie! It's a treasure!
An Affair to Remember (1957)
This movie gets an unjustly bad rep!
"An Affair to Remember" is always associated with the words 'cheesy,' 'unreal,' and the ubiquitous statement, 'That movie's a chick flick!' However, I think it's a great movie. People always think of the end, which some pass off as sappy. I, on the other hand, think it's beautiful. The looks Cary Grant gets on his face say more than words ever could. And people: there's a great movie before the end! It's a movie filled with romance, and believe it or not, tons of comedy! After all, it's a Leo McCarey movie...the man behind "Duck Soup" and "The Awful Truth."
In my opinion, this is one of Cary Grant's greatest performances. He's his usual debonair self, but in this, his heart gets broken. His acting is superb! And Deborah Kerr is radiant, as always. This is a movie that should be appreciated by everyone (yes, including men!) Sure, maybe it's not for everyone. But see it before you make harsh judgments against it. :)
His Girl Friday (1940)
Classic movie wit!
Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell shine in this magnificent and witty comedy about a divorced couple who agree to collaborate on one more big newspaper story before she gets remarried. Of course, what woman can resist Cary Grant? So the more interesting story is, will Hildy remarry, or will she once again fall for Walter?
"His Girl Friday" is a classic comedy that cannot be missed! Look for Cliff Edwards, the voice of Jiminy Cricket, in a small role as Endicott. I highly recommend "His Girl Friday." Watch it....you won't be disappointed!
The French Connection (1971)
A fantastic actor in his Oscar-winning role!
Gene Hackman is without a doubt one of the best actors of his, or any, generation. And he is magnificent as Popeye Doyle, a role that won him an Academy Award for Best Actor. It's a classic crime and detective story that is not only one of the greatest movies of the 1970's, but one of the greatest movies of all time. I strongly recommend this movie. "The French Connection" is one you absolutely cannot miss!! 10 out of 10!
Fort Apache (1948)
Great!
What more can I say about "Fort Apache?" It's another brilliant Ford/Wayne movie! John Wayne is fantastic, as always, as he clashes with Henry Fonda, who is also magnificent. I can't even begin to explain what in particular is great about this movie, because everything is beyond great. I can only say this: see this movie! Trust me, you won't regret it. 10 out of 10!
The Hunt for Red October (1990)
An exciting movie...Alec Baldwin's greatest!
"The Hunt for Red October" is one of the best movies from the past 20 years. Sean Connery is magnificent, as usual, in his role as Marko Ramius. Alec Baldwin gives his best performance as Jack Ryan. He is really fantastic, and I think it's his performance that makes this movie truly memorable. If you're a fan of Alec Baldwin, you really need to see this movie. It is a great action/adventure and a definite must see!
The Lost Weekend (1945)
Another triumph for Billy Wilder
I have yet to see a movie by Billy Wilder that I haven't enjoyed. And I think that "The Lost Weekend" is one of his best. Ray Milland is brilliant in his Oscar winning role of Don Birnham, a struggling writer who is an alcoholic. Jane Wyman is beautiful and gives a great performance as Helen, the woman who's devoted to Don, despite his problems. I think this is a must see film, especially if you're a Billy Wilder fan. 10 out of 10!
BUtterfield 8 (1960)
I liked it!
Even though Elizabeth Taylor didn't. Despite her indifference to this movie, I think she gives one her greatest performances as Gloria Wandrous, the prostitute who falls for one of her clients, played by Laurence Harvey. But as much as the audience would like to believe that this is a fairy tale, it sadly isn't, and ends with tragic results.
Elizabeth Taylor, one of the greatest stars every to grace the screen, won her first Best Actress Academy Award for her brilliant performance, and Laurence Harvey turns out a great performance too. I definitely recommend "BUtterfield 8" to any Elizabeth Taylor fan, so you can see her in all her glory!
Picnic (1955)
Really and truly one of the best!
I think "Picnic" is a movie that's been forgotten in recent years. But I consider it one of the greatest movies ever made! William Holden and Kim Novak are magnificent as small town lovers who face many complications because of his drifter background and her wealthy and important boyfriend. Besides the passionate story, it also features an unforgettable score. "Picnic" is a classic that should not, under any circumstances, be forgotten! See this movie! I give it an enthusiastic 10 out of 10!
Mister Roberts (1955)
Fantastic, unforgettable performances!
"Mister Roberts" features a great cast of stars directed by one of the best! Henry Fonda, William Powell, and James Cagney all shine in some of their most memorable roles. Cagney is magnificent in a different kind of part as the over the top, hilarious Captain Morton. Henry Fonda is wonderful as the kind-hearted yet strong-minded Lieutenant Roberts. And William Powell provides humor and sympathy as Doc, his last major screen role. Last, but certainly not least, newcomer Jack Lemmon shines as Ensign Pulver. He holds his own among some of the greatest Hollywood actors ever, and walked away with an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
Brilliantly directed by one of Hollywood's masters, John Ford, "Mister Roberts" is a movie that is hysterically funny at some times, and heartfelt and touching at others. It's definitely a must-see, classic film that I strongly recommend to anyone!
The Valley of Decision (1945)
An forgotten classic!
When one thinks of Greer Garson, movies like "Mrs. Miniver" or "Pride and Prejudice" come to mind. And when one thinks of Gregory Peck, movies like "To Kill a Mockingbird" or "Gentleman's Agreement" come to mind. However, both of these terrific actors are fantastic in "The Valley of Decision," which I consider to be one of the forgotten classics of the 1940's. It was deservingly nominated for two Academy Awards, including a Best Actress nomination for Greer Garson. I believe she gives one of her most touching, heartfelt performances as Mary Rafferty. This movie is a must-see for all movie fans. I give it an enthusiastic 10 out of 10!
The Untouchables (1987)
A great crime-drama
This is definitely Brian De Palma's best film, and an ultimate crime movie. Sean Connery shines in his Oscar-winning performance, and this could also be Kevin Costner's best performance. This is definitely a must-see movie that I strongly recommend!
The Children's Hour (1961)
Great!
"The Children's Hour" is a great movie that was very much ahead of its time in 1961. Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine play teachers who are accused by a deceitful student of having a lesbian relationship. This causes much friction in the school community, as the two women are shunned. And as might be expected when your whole world is turned upside down, these rumors cause tragedy.
Audrey Hepburn is radiant as always, and Shirley MacLaine gives one of her best, most underrated performances. James Garner and Fay Bainter are also great in their supporting performances. "The Children's Hour" is a fantastic drama that you definitely don't want to miss!
The Simpsons (1989)
One of the greatest shows in television history!
I just can't say enough about "The Simpsons," which I think is one of the funniest shows ever! It gets better all the time, whether the comedy is witty or just plain knee-slapping, silly humor. I never miss an episode, and neither should anyone else!
Cheers (1982)
Without doubt, the greatest TV show of the 80's!
I love "Cheers!" The plots are hilarious, and often have a little lesson to learn. And the best part is, the characters are the perfect foils to one another. I always wanted to be a part of the bar where everybody knows your name. Watch this show! You definitely will not regret it!!!
They Shoot Horses, Don't They? (1969)
Great!
"They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" is a gripping tale of just how desperate people were for money during the most difficult years of the Depression. Jane Fonda gives one of her greatest performances as Gloria, one of the many people who struggles during a dance marathon to gain some money. This is a great character study, and one of the most memorable movies of the 1960's. While it's very depressing, it's a powerful movie that's not to be missed. I strongly recommend "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" to any film fan!
The Usual Suspects (1995)
Kevin Spacey is magnificent!
This is a great movie that echos the classics from Hollywood's Golden Era. Kevin Spacey is great in his Oscar winning role. And even though his part was technically considered a supporting role, he really steals the movie and makes it truly memorable. I highly recommend "The Usual Suspects" to any movie fan!
Scent of a Woman (1992)
Pacino's brilliant Oscar winner!
Al Pacino gives one of his best performances as Col. Frank Slade, a blind man who just exists after a drunken accident caused his blindness. Chris O'Donnell is also great as student Charlie Simms, who agrees to be a sort of guardian to Slade during the holidays in order to raise some money. The relationship that develops between the two men is, in my opinion, one of the most memorable in film history.
Everyone remembers certain scenes (the tango scene, Colonel Slade driving, etc.), but the rest of the movie is also fantastic. This is a must-see movie for every film fan. I give "Scent of a Woman" a 10 out of 10!
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Perhaps the best prison story ever
Tim Robbins gives the performance of a lifetime as Andy, a man wrongly accused of killing his wife and her lover. He is an unconventional prisoner who forms a friendship with Red, played brilliantly by one of the greatest actors of his generation, Morgan Freeman.
To give away any more of the story is a crime, because this is an incredible movie that needs to be seen by everyone. I give "The Shawshank Redemption" a 10 out of 10.
Jaws (1975)
Fantastic!
This movie is absolutely great! I just watched it again recently, after I hadn't seen it in several years. And it does get better every time you see it. The three lead actors are brilliant in their roles. Their interactions with one another makes "Jaws" more than just a story about a shark. The way each man is a foil to the other two makes for a very interesting story, and it's great to see how they all feel about each other at the end, after their incredible adventure.
"Jaws" is a classic movie that has to be seen by everyone at least once. And trust me, it gets better each time you see it. I give this movie a 10 out of 10!
Cape Fear (1962)
Mitchum in one of his greatest parts
Although Gregory Peck is one of my favorite actors, anyone who sees "Cape Fear" would have to agree that it's Robert Mitchum who delivers the more memorable performance. This is definitely one of his greatest roles. I highly recommend this movie, especially if you enjoyed the more recent version. Both actors deliver terrific performances, and it's a definite must-see classic film.