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Movies the giraffe watched: September 2012
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The breakdown: 31 films watched - 7 on DVD, 4 in the theatre (one of which was a short), and 20 via Netflix instant; of those 21 were first views, 10 were re-watches, one was a documentary, one was a short-lived TV series, and they came from the following decades: 30s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s, & 2010s.
Aside from a trio of focuses my viewing habits were all over the place this month it seems. I had a number of "serious" films watched, which required some lighter fare get mixed in to maintain some stability/personal sanity. Revisiting the Rocky series proved to be overall worthwhile though perhaps not as rewarding as I'd hoped for.
I managed to get out to the theatre 3 times this month which is better than usual, one of which was my daughter's first proper theatre experience. She did awesome & has asked to go again since, so I'll have to keep that up in the future provided there are movies appropriate for her to see. Too bad Drafthouse's Saturday "Kids Club" screenings are ages 6 & up only or we could hit those up. Guess they'll have to wait.
By far the best choice this month was sitting down with Sunset Boulevard, which immediately joined my favorite films & in the top 10 area no less (not that I know for sure which 10 films those are, but I know it's one of them). The downside to watching it was that all other films that followed in its wake seemed a little paler by comparison (which should help explain why it's the only film watched that I rated a 10).
I had 4 films from phillydude to watch this month, but wound up setting one aside for next month since it should fit in nicely for my Horrorfest. The rest were all well worth watching, though I'm not sure I'd re-watch any of them simply due to personal taste. But were it not for our Exchange Program I doubt I would have got around to watching them, which is one of the best benefits to our project.
In the Netflix area, I lost about 10 films from my IQ at the end of the month without watching them. I doubt that any of them were great losses though, and a couple of them were films I wanted to watch again so no biggie. Aside from that I managed to get everything else watched that I cared about that left. Fingers crossed that they don't interfere too much next month when I'll be focusing on horror almost exclusively.
Best film for September: Sunset Boulevard
Best hidden gems: One-Eyed Jacks/Wheels on Meals
Worst film: Andy Kaufman World Inter-Gender Wrestling Champion: His Greatest Matches
Aside from a trio of focuses my viewing habits were all over the place this month it seems. I had a number of "serious" films watched, which required some lighter fare get mixed in to maintain some stability/personal sanity. Revisiting the Rocky series proved to be overall worthwhile though perhaps not as rewarding as I'd hoped for.
I managed to get out to the theatre 3 times this month which is better than usual, one of which was my daughter's first proper theatre experience. She did awesome & has asked to go again since, so I'll have to keep that up in the future provided there are movies appropriate for her to see. Too bad Drafthouse's Saturday "Kids Club" screenings are ages 6 & up only or we could hit those up. Guess they'll have to wait.
By far the best choice this month was sitting down with Sunset Boulevard, which immediately joined my favorite films & in the top 10 area no less (not that I know for sure which 10 films those are, but I know it's one of them). The downside to watching it was that all other films that followed in its wake seemed a little paler by comparison (which should help explain why it's the only film watched that I rated a 10).
I had 4 films from phillydude to watch this month, but wound up setting one aside for next month since it should fit in nicely for my Horrorfest. The rest were all well worth watching, though I'm not sure I'd re-watch any of them simply due to personal taste. But were it not for our Exchange Program I doubt I would have got around to watching them, which is one of the best benefits to our project.
In the Netflix area, I lost about 10 films from my IQ at the end of the month without watching them. I doubt that any of them were great losses though, and a couple of them were films I wanted to watch again so no biggie. Aside from that I managed to get everything else watched that I cared about that left. Fingers crossed that they don't interfere too much next month when I'll be focusing on horror almost exclusively.
Best film for September: Sunset Boulevard
Best hidden gems: One-Eyed Jacks/Wheels on Meals
Worst film: Andy Kaufman World Inter-Gender Wrestling Champion: His Greatest Matches
2328
7.7
7.8
First viewing - Sept. 1st
Kicked off September with a gift from phillydude. And quite a gift it was as this is a pretty damn good movie. The performances are perfect across the board which yields some great characters & there are some memorable scenes one of which I felt like I've seen somewhere before (and probably I have on some retrospective or something). I was very caught up by the tale & was even on the edge of my seat a time or two.
And yet I felt like that special something was lacking that marks a perfect 10 film for me. Perhaps a re-watch down the road will help determine what that was or else encourage me to bump it up a notch, but for now it sits firmly at a 9/10.
Kicked off September with a gift from phillydude. And quite a gift it was as this is a pretty damn good movie. The performances are perfect across the board which yields some great characters & there are some memorable scenes one of which I felt like I've seen somewhere before (and probably I have on some retrospective or something). I was very caught up by the tale & was even on the edge of my seat a time or two.
And yet I felt like that special something was lacking that marks a perfect 10 film for me. Perhaps a re-watch down the road will help determine what that was or else encourage me to bump it up a notch, but for now it sits firmly at a 9/10.
the giraffe's rating:
896
5.8
6.2
The Rum Diary (2011)
First viewing - Sept. 2nd
After finishing The Untouchables I chose The Rum Diary from my IQ to watch. I wouldn't say they complement each other really, though both feature memorable characters wearing hats (a stretch perhaps, but true).
Unsure about most people who watched this film, but I speak as someone who has read the novel it was adapted from & therefore can say that this film succeeds at capturing the spirit of its source material. It's been a few years since I read the book, but from what I remember the main points are covered & so I'd say it's a good adaptation. I'll concede the main complaint here, which is that Johnny Depp is too old for the role now. Not entirely his fault though, as he's been trying to get the movie made for some time now (since 2000 according to wikipedia & back then he would have been much closer to the appropriate age). But while he may be too old he still manages to bring Paul Kemp to life well, no doubt thanks largely to his close relationship with Hunter S. Thompson.
The supporting cast is mostly strong too though. I thought Michael Rispoli did a great job as Sala, and miz Heard perfectly portrays Chenault. Meanwhile the story is a lot of fun from start to finish. The only problem here is that the flow of it doesn't quite work. The film seems more like a collection of related scenes rather than a coherent whole, and thus falls short of ever achieving Greatness. But then that was my sole complaint with the novel too...sometimes faithfulness to the source material isn't always the best thing.
Currently streaming on Netflix
After finishing The Untouchables I chose The Rum Diary from my IQ to watch. I wouldn't say they complement each other really, though both feature memorable characters wearing hats (a stretch perhaps, but true).
Unsure about most people who watched this film, but I speak as someone who has read the novel it was adapted from & therefore can say that this film succeeds at capturing the spirit of its source material. It's been a few years since I read the book, but from what I remember the main points are covered & so I'd say it's a good adaptation. I'll concede the main complaint here, which is that Johnny Depp is too old for the role now. Not entirely his fault though, as he's been trying to get the movie made for some time now (since 2000 according to wikipedia & back then he would have been much closer to the appropriate age). But while he may be too old he still manages to bring Paul Kemp to life well, no doubt thanks largely to his close relationship with Hunter S. Thompson.
The supporting cast is mostly strong too though. I thought Michael Rispoli did a great job as Sala, and miz Heard perfectly portrays Chenault. Meanwhile the story is a lot of fun from start to finish. The only problem here is that the flow of it doesn't quite work. The film seems more like a collection of related scenes rather than a coherent whole, and thus falls short of ever achieving Greatness. But then that was my sole complaint with the novel too...sometimes faithfulness to the source material isn't always the best thing.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
353
6.3
6.6
Killer's Kiss (1955)
First viewing - Sept. 2nd
I've still got a couple of Kubrick's films left to watch, but from what I've seen I'd say this is his weakest film. That's not to say there's not plenty here to admire, as the camerawork is excellent & the story has its moments. The cast does a solid job & I was fairly entertained. But overall there's not much especially impressive about Killer's Kiss & thus it's only really worth watching if you're a fan of Kubrick's work to the point of feeling a need to watch everything he's done. I liked seeing how he started out (well, more or less given this was his 2nd film), but I doubt I'll ever watch it again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I've still got a couple of Kubrick's films left to watch, but from what I've seen I'd say this is his weakest film. That's not to say there's not plenty here to admire, as the camerawork is excellent & the story has its moments. The cast does a solid job & I was fairly entertained. But overall there's not much especially impressive about Killer's Kiss & thus it's only really worth watching if you're a fan of Kubrick's work to the point of feeling a need to watch everything he's done. I liked seeing how he started out (well, more or less given this was his 2nd film), but I doubt I'll ever watch it again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
1650
7
7.4
Man on the Moon (1999)
Place-holder for Andy Kaufman World Inter-Gender Wrestling Champion: His Greatest Matches, a documentary DVD with no IMDb page
First viewing - Sept. 4th
Basically this is 60 minutes of footage from the period where Andy Kaufman was wrestling against women. As a Kaufman fan it's a subject I find interesting, but I was a little disappointed with the end result. There's no Jerry Lawler to be found (though he gets mentioned a time or two), the footage is sometimes poorly shot (one cameraman was apparently too short to shoot over the crowd in front of him & yet they used his footage anyway), and after a while the sound during the wrestling matches is replaced with mediocre, often annoying songs (all of which were seemingly written just for the film). On top of all this the wrestling matches eventually overstay their welcome, which is kinda sad for a 60 minute runtime. I really enjoyed the first half of this documentary, but the second half left much to be desired.
Die-hard Andy Kaufman fans only need bother.
Rating: 5/10 Currently streaming on Netflix
First viewing - Sept. 4th
Basically this is 60 minutes of footage from the period where Andy Kaufman was wrestling against women. As a Kaufman fan it's a subject I find interesting, but I was a little disappointed with the end result. There's no Jerry Lawler to be found (though he gets mentioned a time or two), the footage is sometimes poorly shot (one cameraman was apparently too short to shoot over the crowd in front of him & yet they used his footage anyway), and after a while the sound during the wrestling matches is replaced with mediocre, often annoying songs (all of which were seemingly written just for the film). On top of all this the wrestling matches eventually overstay their welcome, which is kinda sad for a 60 minute runtime. I really enjoyed the first half of this documentary, but the second half left much to be desired.
Die-hard Andy Kaufman fans only need bother.
Rating: 5/10 Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
1579
8.5
8.4
Sunset Boulevard (1950)
First viewing - Sept. 7th
While I'm never entirely sure exactly which films hold the spots in my top 10 films I've ever seen (a list that would take far too much time & thought to put together), I'm positive that this one just claimed a spot among them. I want to thank my fellow Listalites, as I'd never heard of this Great film before joining the site & your constantly high praise (my contacts' rating alone is 9.1) encouraged me to check it out the first chance I got. It hit Netflix instant this month & I immediately added it to my queue...now it won't leave there until either Netflix removes it or I get a copy of my own on DVD. So thank you.
Currently streaming on Netflix
While I'm never entirely sure exactly which films hold the spots in my top 10 films I've ever seen (a list that would take far too much time & thought to put together), I'm positive that this one just claimed a spot among them. I want to thank my fellow Listalites, as I'd never heard of this Great film before joining the site & your constantly high praise (my contacts' rating alone is 9.1) encouraged me to check it out the first chance I got. It hit Netflix instant this month & I immediately added it to my queue...now it won't leave there until either Netflix removes it or I get a copy of my own on DVD. So thank you.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
140
5.8
5.9
Kuffs (1992)
Re-watch - Sept. 8th/9th
In the wake of Sunset Boulevard and On Golden Pond, I decided I needed something fun & simple before tackling any other "serious" works. So I took another look at Kuffs, a film I loved in my teens & early 20s. I still dig it, but it's far from perfect or even great. Solidly entertaining though (unless you hate Christian Slater, in which case maybe not) and fun if a bit cliche & obvious at times. Ah, and the time of the film's events really doesn't work out, but since it's as much a comedy as an action film I suppose that can be forgiven.
Currently streaming on Netflix
In the wake of Sunset Boulevard and On Golden Pond, I decided I needed something fun & simple before tackling any other "serious" works. So I took another look at Kuffs, a film I loved in my teens & early 20s. I still dig it, but it's far from perfect or even great. Solidly entertaining though (unless you hate Christian Slater, in which case maybe not) and fun if a bit cliche & obvious at times. Ah, and the time of the film's events really doesn't work out, but since it's as much a comedy as an action film I suppose that can be forgiven.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
443
6.9
7.1
First viewing - Sept. 11th/12th
Yep, pretty much. I just enjoyed it a bit more than he did it seems & got more or less what I expected out of the film.
Currently streaming on Netflix
God Bless America aims its arrows at one of the easiest imaginable targets. That's fine. But rather than offering any insight or developing its characters, the movie feels like a way for the screenwriter to simply air out as much of his anger as he can; this makes the characters' thoughts and ideas feel inconsequential and inserted, rather than organic to their personalities. You see, the movie features an excessive amount of scenes in which a character simply sits there and lists the "types" of people he/she hates. In order to compensate for the lack of insight and for the easy target, the film should've at least featured a handful of bloody, gory, action-based fun (which is what the poster suggests), and while the movie does feature some of that, it's not nearly enough - the slow-motion shoot-out scenes get old after a while.
--lotr23, from his 2012 by star rating list
Yep, pretty much. I just enjoyed it a bit more than he did it seems & got more or less what I expected out of the film.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
28
5.9
5.2
Re-watch - Sept. 15th-21st
I remember watching this back when it was originally on TV, but even now I'm not sure how much of it I had actually seen before. I did recall that it was intended to be a proper series rather than a miniseries, but wound up getting canceled in its first season (thanks to IMDb for confirming that). And watching it again I'm rather surprised that it didn't catch on.
The story is so compelling I kept watching more of it to see what would happen next, the characters are well drawn and developed so that you care about them (and a few of them are very well portrayed, including Stephen Root's character and the scientist), and the performances are solid across the board. The show really should have gone on for another season, though it's possible that the idea would've run out of steam before making it to a 3rd.
That's not to say the show is perfect though. Some of the effects are cheesy (see the glowing eyes above), and along the way there are a few situations that aren't explained well or at all. Presumably some of it was left open to explore in future episodes, but in at least two cases we really need to see the scenes they left out. The ending is also problematic as it partly goes against expectations & while it does end the series it leaves plenty of unanswered questions & thus isn't very satisfying. I can let it slide a little on the ending though, as apparently they tacked it on when it went to video/DVD to give the series a sense of finality (kinda wish they'd left it alone though).
Thanks to phillydude for loaning this to me so I could watch it again.
Currently streaming on Netflix also
I remember watching this back when it was originally on TV, but even now I'm not sure how much of it I had actually seen before. I did recall that it was intended to be a proper series rather than a miniseries, but wound up getting canceled in its first season (thanks to IMDb for confirming that). And watching it again I'm rather surprised that it didn't catch on.
The story is so compelling I kept watching more of it to see what would happen next, the characters are well drawn and developed so that you care about them (and a few of them are very well portrayed, including Stephen Root's character and the scientist), and the performances are solid across the board. The show really should have gone on for another season, though it's possible that the idea would've run out of steam before making it to a 3rd.
That's not to say the show is perfect though. Some of the effects are cheesy (see the glowing eyes above), and along the way there are a few situations that aren't explained well or at all. Presumably some of it was left open to explore in future episodes, but in at least two cases we really need to see the scenes they left out. The ending is also problematic as it partly goes against expectations & while it does end the series it leaves plenty of unanswered questions & thus isn't very satisfying. I can let it slide a little on the ending though, as apparently they tacked it on when it went to video/DVD to give the series a sense of finality (kinda wish they'd left it alone though).
Thanks to phillydude for loaning this to me so I could watch it again.
Currently streaming on Netflix also
the giraffe's rating:
4677
7.4
8.1
Re-watch - Sept. 30th
Decided to end the month by revisiting Jaws as a primer for next month's overindulgence of horror films. I hadn't watched it in over 10 years, so I was anxious to see it again & picked up the 100th anniversary DVD recently to do so (and now I won't have to wait another 10+ years to watch it again). The DVD quality is wonderful & well worth picking up. Can't think of anything to say about this film that hasn't been said before really, aside from the fact that there's just something about it that holds me back from giving it a perfect score. I'm still not sure what it is even now, as I highly enjoy Jaws from start to finish & can't think of a single shortcoming. Must be personal taste or something I guess.
Decided to end the month by revisiting Jaws as a primer for next month's overindulgence of horror films. I hadn't watched it in over 10 years, so I was anxious to see it again & picked up the 100th anniversary DVD recently to do so (and now I won't have to wait another 10+ years to watch it again). The DVD quality is wonderful & well worth picking up. Can't think of anything to say about this film that hasn't been said before really, aside from the fact that there's just something about it that holds me back from giving it a perfect score. I'm still not sure what it is even now, as I highly enjoy Jaws from start to finish & can't think of a single shortcoming. Must be personal taste or something I guess.
the giraffe's rating:
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Big screen attractions
Films caught in a theatre
157
6.7
6
Pieces (1982)
First viewing - Sept. 4th
I've heard about Pieces for a long time now, so when I saw that Alamo Drafthouse was screening it in 35mm (and for a measly $3 no less) I decided I should go. And I'm so glad I did. Ridiculous, over the top, and frequently random only begin to describe this slasher film. After a while the dialogue made me feel like someone had a drunken bet to get some of the lines worked into the film & delivered with a straight face. The kills are Awesome and a big highlight of the film. You can tell the actors are making the best out of what they're given to work with, which means you won't find any breakout performances here, and honestly the ending is fairly predictable if you've seen enough movies. That said, horror buffs will have a LOT of fun watching this despite all its flaws. I know I did.
I've heard about Pieces for a long time now, so when I saw that Alamo Drafthouse was screening it in 35mm (and for a measly $3 no less) I decided I should go. And I'm so glad I did. Ridiculous, over the top, and frequently random only begin to describe this slasher film. After a while the dialogue made me feel like someone had a drunken bet to get some of the lines worked into the film & delivered with a straight face. The kills are Awesome and a big highlight of the film. You can tell the actors are making the best out of what they're given to work with, which means you won't find any breakout performances here, and honestly the ending is fairly predictable if you've seen enough movies. That said, horror buffs will have a LOT of fun watching this despite all its flaws. I know I did.
the giraffe's rating:
1035
7.1
7.2
The Master (2012)
First viewing - Sept. 23rd
Can't remember the last time I walked out of a movie with such indifference. Which saddens me, as I've loved every film P.T. Anderson has made prior to this one. The acting is great & there are some really good dramatic moments. The film looks great too, but in the end the story doesn't leave much of an impression. Some will find even less than I did to admire about the film if the couple sitting next to us is any indication...they slept through most of the film (I heard them during the final 30-45 minutes, but my "wife" told me they'd slept more than that).
Worth a look, but for me this is a big disappointment. Hopefully I can revisit it later on & I'll get more out of it.
Can't remember the last time I walked out of a movie with such indifference. Which saddens me, as I've loved every film P.T. Anderson has made prior to this one. The acting is great & there are some really good dramatic moments. The film looks great too, but in the end the story doesn't leave much of an impression. Some will find even less than I did to admire about the film if the couple sitting next to us is any indication...they slept through most of the film (I heard them during the final 30-45 minutes, but my "wife" told me they'd slept more than that).
Worth a look, but for me this is a big disappointment. Hopefully I can revisit it later on & I'll get more out of it.
the giraffe's rating:
99
6
7.4
First viewing - Sept. 25th
An amusing short (which led into Finding Nemo), but nothing too amazing. Perhaps if I liked dance music/raves/etc. I would have appreciated it more.
An amusing short (which led into Finding Nemo), but nothing too amazing. Perhaps if I liked dance music/raves/etc. I would have appreciated it more.
the giraffe's rating:
8370
7.5
8.1
Finding Nemo (2003)
Re-watch - Sept. 25th
First off, you'll all be pleased to know I found a better appreciation for this film than I had the first time around. I totally connected with it & thus enjoyed it & I can now see why so many people love it. I still think it's a little overrated, but it's definitely a solidly entertaining & heartfelt film, if a little cliche at times. It's now been bumped up on my Pixar list.
More importantly, however, this was my daughter's first time to watch a movie in the theatre. Alamo Drafthouse has "Baby Day" on Tuesdays for all showings before 2pm, where you can take your little kids & they're allowed to talk during the movie if they can't hold back. It was perfect for her, and she was very well behaved aside from the occasional comments & questions as the film went on (mostly she was quiet though). She stayed in her seat almost the entire time (wanted to sit on my lap for a few minutes at one point), and when it ended she sat all the way through the credits & asked me if we could watch another movie before we even left the room. Definitely my kid. ;)
First off, you'll all be pleased to know I found a better appreciation for this film than I had the first time around. I totally connected with it & thus enjoyed it & I can now see why so many people love it. I still think it's a little overrated, but it's definitely a solidly entertaining & heartfelt film, if a little cliche at times. It's now been bumped up on my Pixar list.
More importantly, however, this was my daughter's first time to watch a movie in the theatre. Alamo Drafthouse has "Baby Day" on Tuesdays for all showings before 2pm, where you can take your little kids & they're allowed to talk during the movie if they can't hold back. It was perfect for her, and she was very well behaved aside from the occasional comments & questions as the film went on (mostly she was quiet though). She stayed in her seat almost the entire time (wanted to sit on my lap for a few minutes at one point), and when it ended she sat all the way through the credits & asked me if we could watch another movie before we even left the room. Definitely my kid. ;)
the giraffe's rating:
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Listal Group Project
321
7.2
7.6
On Golden Pond (1981)
First viewing - Sept. 8th
I vaguely recall hearing great things about this film as a kid, but it never seemed like the kind of film I'd want to watch. As an adult, however, it's a film I could appreciate far more than I would have even as a teenager. The acting is stellar with the chemistry between Henry Fonda & Katharine Hepburn making for the film's best moments. The characters & situations are mostly believable, and in the end it's a pleasure to watch.
My only complaint is that some of the film's messages are so obviously put forth that I was occasionally put off by it. They occasionally seemed forced into the film for the benefit of the audience rather than completely organic. Still, the film is definitely worth a look & I'm glad I sat down with it.
I vaguely recall hearing great things about this film as a kid, but it never seemed like the kind of film I'd want to watch. As an adult, however, it's a film I could appreciate far more than I would have even as a teenager. The acting is stellar with the chemistry between Henry Fonda & Katharine Hepburn making for the film's best moments. The characters & situations are mostly believable, and in the end it's a pleasure to watch.
My only complaint is that some of the film's messages are so obviously put forth that I was occasionally put off by it. They occasionally seemed forced into the film for the benefit of the audience rather than completely organic. Still, the film is definitely worth a look & I'm glad I sat down with it.
the giraffe's rating:
588
7.4
7.6
Sophie's Choice (1982)
First viewing - Sept. 21st/22nd
I had heard of this film a few times before, but odds are I wouldn't have watched it had it not been included among the films for this month. And while I'm glad I've finally seen it, it's not the sort of film I'd ever watch again. The acting is good (Meryl Streep's performance is definitely Oscar-worthy & thus well earned), the story is good, but I was never really swept away by it. That's not to say I wasn't engaged & entertained (I was), but I simply never felt excited about it.
I had heard of this film a few times before, but odds are I wouldn't have watched it had it not been included among the films for this month. And while I'm glad I've finally seen it, it's not the sort of film I'd ever watch again. The acting is good (Meryl Streep's performance is definitely Oscar-worthy & thus well earned), the story is good, but I was never really swept away by it. That's not to say I wasn't engaged & entertained (I was), but I simply never felt excited about it.
the giraffe's rating:
1405
7.6
8
Gandhi (1982)
First viewing - Sept. 28th/29th
Gandhi is definitely a fascinating subject, and this film does an excellent job of showing who he was & what he fought for. Ben Kingsley gives a Great performance as he truly disappears into the role, and the rest of the cast is excellent as well. It winds up feeling like more of a documentary than a movie overall with so much care taken with the details along the way, and while I enjoyed it I'm sure others will be annoyed by how long the film is. I can only think of a couple things that might make the film even better than it is, but really it's very well done & worth watching once.
Gandhi is definitely a fascinating subject, and this film does an excellent job of showing who he was & what he fought for. Ben Kingsley gives a Great performance as he truly disappears into the role, and the rest of the cast is excellent as well. It winds up feeling like more of a documentary than a movie overall with so much care taken with the details along the way, and while I enjoyed it I'm sure others will be annoyed by how long the film is. I can only think of a couple things that might make the film even better than it is, but really it's very well done & worth watching once.
the giraffe's rating:
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Series focus for Sept.: Rocky
Since the Rocky films keep threatening to leave Netflix instant I've decided I should re-watch them to see what I think of them now before they actually do leave (whenever that may be). I plan to at least watch the first 4 films, then we'll see how that goes before deciding whether to watch the 5th (Rocky Balboa is NOT streaming as of now).
3011
7.5
8.1
Rocky (1976)
Re-watch - Sept. 6th
OK, so previously I had this rated at a 7/10 & as you can see that's no longer accurate. I watched the first four Rocky films with my dad when I was growing up & haven't seen any of them since the '80s, so I gave them all a 7 or 6 depending on what I could remember of how much I enjoyed them back then. My tastes have changed significantly since then, as the jump here has proved...but then 20+ years will change anyone's tastes, yeah?
And honestly I'm probably still underrating this film. It's probably a perfect 10, but the fact is it's not the kind of film I get excited enough about to love everything about or want to revisit too often. Blame it on my general apathy toward most things sports. Fortunately you don't have to like sports to appreciate the multiple levels this film works on (see the above review for more on that). I definitely have a better appreciation for this film now & am glad I decided to finally watch it again. Let's hope the sequels are as well worth my time.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Review by PvtCaboose91
OK, so previously I had this rated at a 7/10 & as you can see that's no longer accurate. I watched the first four Rocky films with my dad when I was growing up & haven't seen any of them since the '80s, so I gave them all a 7 or 6 depending on what I could remember of how much I enjoyed them back then. My tastes have changed significantly since then, as the jump here has proved...but then 20+ years will change anyone's tastes, yeah?
And honestly I'm probably still underrating this film. It's probably a perfect 10, but the fact is it's not the kind of film I get excited enough about to love everything about or want to revisit too often. Blame it on my general apathy toward most things sports. Fortunately you don't have to like sports to appreciate the multiple levels this film works on (see the above review for more on that). I definitely have a better appreciation for this film now & am glad I decided to finally watch it again. Let's hope the sequels are as well worth my time.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
1506
6.6
7.3
Re-watch - Sept. 14th
The only thing that holds this film back from greatness is the fact that it's basically a rehash of its predecessor. It follows the prior film's main points from start to finish, with slight alterations along the way. Fortunately the characters are just as strong as they were the first time around & the storytelling is every bit as captivating. The same characters return & most of them get further developed which makes the film rewarding to watch. I'll admit that a few things could have been better explained (Adrian's change of heart for example), but they don't take much away from the overall enjoyment of watching this movie. So while you can fault the film for a bit of laziness, you can't fault it for carrying on the spirit of the first film, which it does successfully.
Currently streaming on Netflix
The only thing that holds this film back from greatness is the fact that it's basically a rehash of its predecessor. It follows the prior film's main points from start to finish, with slight alterations along the way. Fortunately the characters are just as strong as they were the first time around & the storytelling is every bit as captivating. The same characters return & most of them get further developed which makes the film rewarding to watch. I'll admit that a few things could have been better explained (Adrian's change of heart for example), but they don't take much away from the overall enjoyment of watching this movie. So while you can fault the film for a bit of laziness, you can't fault it for carrying on the spirit of the first film, which it does successfully.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
1373
6.3
6.8
Rocky III (1982)
Re-watch - Sept. 21st
Currently streaming on Netflix
Rocky III is a lean movie - it's twenty minutes shorter than its two predecessors, and the focus is more on boxing action and confrontations. Elements such as character progression, dramatic growth and insightful dialogue were kept to a minimum here. Furthermore, by this point in the series Stallone was happy to follow the same old boring formula, and in the process neglected the heart and soul that allowed the first two movies to belie their formulaic nature. For lack of better word, Rocky III is a commercial vehicle which situates the trademark Rocky characters within a simplistic revenge tale. It almost goes without saying that character behaviour in the film is predictable to the point of being groan-worthy, and the outcome of the climactic boxing match can be figured out long before it occurs.
On the upside, Rocky III benefits immensely by the presence of Mr. T and Hulk Hogan. The boxing/wrestling crossover which constitutes Hogan's cameo is absurd, but it's fun and enjoyable nevertheless. Meanwhile, the Mr. T vs. Rocky battles are entertaining, well-crafted and fist-pumping. Not to mention, Mr. T is the true highlight of this feature. With his mohawk and feather earrings, Mr. T is a brutal beast to behold, and, though his performance is single-note, his presence affords the film a touch of personality.
While Mr. T is a fun villain, the depiction of Rocky Balboa is unfortunately lacking in this particular installment. As presented here, Rocky has lost a degree of his lovable edge. Not to mention, Stallone's performance is lazy and, at times, utterly naff. For an example of this, witness Stallone moping over Mickey's corpse - it's almost painful to see acting that woeful. Despite this - and despite the film's cheesiness, simplicity and lack of human drama, as well as its adherence to a painfully familiar formula - Rocky III still delivers a number of the pleasures associated with the series.
--from the Review by PvtCaboose91
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
1425
6.2
6.9
Rocky IV (1985)
Re-watch - Sept. 27th
It's a good thing this film is so entertaining, or I'd really regret re-watching it. This time Carl Weathers finds his way out of the franchise for good, which is best given how little life there is left in it. Stallone found enough to work with for the first sequel, but at this point he doesn't seem to know what to do with the characters beyond keeping Rocky fighting & those around him supporting him even if they might disagree briefly. Enter the Russian Ivan Drago, in a ridiculous story idea that he's "invading" American boxing even though he runs back home after his only fight in the country. Cold War theme? You bet. I probably should've watched this with Red Dawn, but I'm not sure I could've handled two of these in a row.
On the plus side there's so much spectacle & the fights are well put together which kept me entertained. And at least the final message isn't "America is better than Russia" (thanks Stallone). But the whole film feels like MTV put it together with the 10 montages set to music (I might be exaggerating a little) & a James Brown performance to fill in the space between the two fights. Entertaining enough as I said, but it makes me long for the care taken with the first film. Ah well.
At this point the odds of my checking out the other two films are pretty slim.
Currently streaming on Netflix
It's a good thing this film is so entertaining, or I'd really regret re-watching it. This time Carl Weathers finds his way out of the franchise for good, which is best given how little life there is left in it. Stallone found enough to work with for the first sequel, but at this point he doesn't seem to know what to do with the characters beyond keeping Rocky fighting & those around him supporting him even if they might disagree briefly. Enter the Russian Ivan Drago, in a ridiculous story idea that he's "invading" American boxing even though he runs back home after his only fight in the country. Cold War theme? You bet. I probably should've watched this with Red Dawn, but I'm not sure I could've handled two of these in a row.
On the plus side there's so much spectacle & the fights are well put together which kept me entertained. And at least the final message isn't "America is better than Russia" (thanks Stallone). But the whole film feels like MTV put it together with the 10 montages set to music (I might be exaggerating a little) & a James Brown performance to fill in the space between the two fights. Entertaining enough as I said, but it makes me long for the care taken with the first film. Ah well.
At this point the odds of my checking out the other two films are pretty slim.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
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Year-long series focus: The Marx Bros.
I've decided this year I want to re-watch all of the Marx Bros. movies in order. Since there's 12 of them total, that gives me one per month.
80
7.1
6.7
Room Service (1938)
Re-watch - Sept. 6th
Not quite as good as I'd remembered, Room Service starts out pretty weak with few laughs. Fortunately as it rolls along it picks up steam & there are some hilarious moments to be had. The ways they get rid of a collections guy are great, there's a funny bit with a turkey (with the unintentionally funny addition of being able to see the wire it flies on), and the ending is solid. Unfortunately some of the cast isn't that good, and Lucille Ball shows up & gets little to do (rather disappointing given her eventual star status). The story is decent though, it's just that in the end it's not as strong a film as most of their others. I still think it's worth a look though.
Not quite as good as I'd remembered, Room Service starts out pretty weak with few laughs. Fortunately as it rolls along it picks up steam & there are some hilarious moments to be had. The ways they get rid of a collections guy are great, there's a funny bit with a turkey (with the unintentionally funny addition of being able to see the wire it flies on), and the ending is solid. Unfortunately some of the cast isn't that good, and Lucille Ball shows up & gets little to do (rather disappointing given her eventual star status). The story is decent though, it's just that in the end it's not as strong a film as most of their others. I still think it's worth a look though.
the giraffe's rating:
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Netflix exorcisms
Films I watched before they left my IQ this month
345
6.6
6.8
The Man Who Knew Too Much (1934)
First viewing - Sept. 10th
The best reason to watch this film is that Peter Lorre is awesome in it. But then he tends to be, yes? Anyway, I thought the story was OK (if it was original at the time it's far from original now) & it's really well told up until the ending which drags on far longer than necessary. So it's a decent film but I know Hitchcock was capable of much better ones.
The best reason to watch this film is that Peter Lorre is awesome in it. But then he tends to be, yes? Anyway, I thought the story was OK (if it was original at the time it's far from original now) & it's really well told up until the ending which drags on far longer than necessary. So it's a decent film but I know Hitchcock was capable of much better ones.
the giraffe's rating:
171
7
7.1
One-Eyed Jacks (1961)
First viewing - Sept. 12th/13th
I'd never heard of this until I came across Mr. Saturn's Quentin Tarantino's Favorite Films list, after which I added it (and several other films) to my IQ. It's an excellent revenge film, one that doesn't take the expected route to its obvious conclusion. The acting is excellent across the board & Brando is captivating every moment he's on screen. I really dug the story & there are some really great moments along the way. I personally thought the love story side of things worked well, whereas often in these cases one can easily derail & ruin a revenge tale.
There are some places where the editing is obvious though, even to someone like me who didn't study film. There may be a couple other things that could've been done better, but still...for what it is I thought this was a really good film & one I'd watch again.
I'd never heard of this until I came across Mr. Saturn's Quentin Tarantino's Favorite Films list, after which I added it (and several other films) to my IQ. It's an excellent revenge film, one that doesn't take the expected route to its obvious conclusion. The acting is excellent across the board & Brando is captivating every moment he's on screen. I really dug the story & there are some really great moments along the way. I personally thought the love story side of things worked well, whereas often in these cases one can easily derail & ruin a revenge tale.
There are some places where the editing is obvious though, even to someone like me who didn't study film. There may be a couple other things that could've been done better, but still...for what it is I thought this was a really good film & one I'd watch again.
the giraffe's rating:
115
6.2
6.2
Edmond (2006)
First viewing - Sept. 14th
Checked this out due to my interest in Stuart Gordon as a director, and didn't realize until after it was over that I've seen the play it was adapted from. Heh. Either way, it's a very thoughtful, existential piece that I really dig. There are some great moments, a couple of which are very intense, and William H. Macy does an excellent job in the lead role even if he wouldn't be my first choice to play it.
Some of the acting could be better (*coughcoughMenaSuvaricoughcough*) and in the end it's nothing especially groundbreaking or anything. But if you're looking for a solidly entertaining intellectual film, give it a look.
Checked this out due to my interest in Stuart Gordon as a director, and didn't realize until after it was over that I've seen the play it was adapted from. Heh. Either way, it's a very thoughtful, existential piece that I really dig. There are some great moments, a couple of which are very intense, and William H. Macy does an excellent job in the lead role even if he wouldn't be my first choice to play it.
Some of the acting could be better (*coughcoughMenaSuvaricoughcough*) and in the end it's nothing especially groundbreaking or anything. But if you're looking for a solidly entertaining intellectual film, give it a look.
the giraffe's rating:
104
7.4
7.2
Dragons Forever (1988)
First viewing - Sept. 17th
It's been a long time since I gave a damn about any movie Jackie Chan is involved in, but I really used to dig his films. This one reminded me of all the reasons why that was. The action scenes here are Amazing & there are many laugh-out-loud funny moments to be had, all of which makes for a highly entertaining, fun film. The only thing I didn't find exceptional was the story, which has been done before. Fortunately I enjoyed it so much I hardly cared.
It's been a long time since I gave a damn about any movie Jackie Chan is involved in, but I really used to dig his films. This one reminded me of all the reasons why that was. The action scenes here are Amazing & there are many laugh-out-loud funny moments to be had, all of which makes for a highly entertaining, fun film. The only thing I didn't find exceptional was the story, which has been done before. Fortunately I enjoyed it so much I hardly cared.
the giraffe's rating:
151
7.2
7.2
Wheels on Meals (1984)
First viewing - Sept. 20th
Had two choices tonight of films leaving my IQ & only time for one. I think it's safe to say I chose the better of the two. This one came highly recommended by Netflix & they were right as it's a hell of a lot of fun from start to finish. If you like martial arts movies & haven't seen this one, you're missing out.
Had two choices tonight of films leaving my IQ & only time for one. I think it's safe to say I chose the better of the two. This one came highly recommended by Netflix & they were right as it's a hell of a lot of fun from start to finish. If you like martial arts movies & haven't seen this one, you're missing out.
the giraffe's rating:
53
6.2
6.1
The Hebrew Hammer (2004)
First viewing - Sept. 24th
Wanted something fun & silly after sitting through The Master, and since this was leaving my IQ I gave it a look & it fit the bill perfectly. By no means is this a great movie, but I found it very funny more often than not (the jokes range from side-splitting to eye-rolling & head-shakingly bad) & you're not likely to find another film inspired by the blaxploitation genre that stars a Jewish guy. I enjoyed it for what it is, but it definitely could have been better.
Wanted something fun & silly after sitting through The Master, and since this was leaving my IQ I gave it a look & it fit the bill perfectly. By no means is this a great movie, but I found it very funny more often than not (the jokes range from side-splitting to eye-rolling & head-shakingly bad) & you're not likely to find another film inspired by the blaxploitation genre that stars a Jewish guy. I enjoyed it for what it is, but it definitely could have been better.
the giraffe's rating:
611
7.7
7.7
Love and Death (1975)
First viewing - Sept. 25th
I'm sure if I was more familiar with the Russian literature this film pokes fun at I'd have an even deeper appreciation of this movie. Fortunately it's not a requirement as I laughed many times throughout & was well entertained by it. Some of the dialogue seems unnatural at times, which took a little away from the experience I thought, but still it's worth a look especially if you like Woody Allen's work.
I'm sure if I was more familiar with the Russian literature this film pokes fun at I'd have an even deeper appreciation of this movie. Fortunately it's not a requirement as I laughed many times throughout & was well entertained by it. Some of the dialogue seems unnatural at times, which took a little away from the experience I thought, but still it's worth a look especially if you like Woody Allen's work.
the giraffe's rating:
400
6.1
6.4
Red Dawn (1984)
First viewing - Sept. 26th
The second Russian-related film I watched was merely OK. The acting is pretty bad considering how much better most of the cast went on to do, the story is ludicrous, and it's basically a pro-American propaganda film. It's entertaining enough though that I never felt like turning it off (having a couple beers along the way helped), and I'm glad I finally watched it after all the years of hearing others talk about it. I wouldn't say it's essential viewing by any means though.
The second Russian-related film I watched was merely OK. The acting is pretty bad considering how much better most of the cast went on to do, the story is ludicrous, and it's basically a pro-American propaganda film. It's entertaining enough though that I never felt like turning it off (having a couple beers along the way helped), and I'm glad I finally watched it after all the years of hearing others talk about it. I wouldn't say it's essential viewing by any means though.
the giraffe's rating:
470
7.2
7.5
Radio Days (1987)
First viewing - Sept. 27th
Thought I'd try another Woody Allen movie before it left my IQ. Should've picked something else. While it looks great as a period piece I can't say I was particularly caught up by any of it, due largely to the fact it's simply a bunch of small stories tied together by a connection to the radio in the 1940s. For me it was barely entertaining, though I wouldn't say it's a bad film. Just not something I cared about.
Thought I'd try another Woody Allen movie before it left my IQ. Should've picked something else. While it looks great as a period piece I can't say I was particularly caught up by any of it, due largely to the fact it's simply a bunch of small stories tied together by a connection to the radio in the 1940s. For me it was barely entertaining, though I wouldn't say it's a bad film. Just not something I cared about.
the giraffe's rating:
701
6
6.1
Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)
Re-watch - Sept. 30th
After Gandhi I needed something more fun/not serious to watch, so I gave this a look before it left my IQ. Not as good as I thought I'd remembered, but still a solid '80s slasher film. I was entertained, but I no longer think it's great...though I do appreciate seeing Jason without his hockey mask.
After Gandhi I needed something more fun/not serious to watch, so I gave this a look before it left my IQ. Not as good as I thought I'd remembered, but still a solid '80s slasher film. I was entertained, but I no longer think it's great...though I do appreciate seeing Jason without his hockey mask.
the giraffe's rating:
For the most part this month I'm watching whatever strikes my mood, rather than having a main focus. Yes, there's still the Movie Exchange Program section to watch films for, and I'm revisiting a series I haven't watched in far too long to see what I think of it now. But aside from those anything goes this month. Next month will be much more focused.
See also:
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