DANGEROUS BEAUTY
First viewing of this 1998 release for me. I'm aghast that this treasure escaped my radar. Starring Catherine McCormack
, Rufus Sewell, Oliver Platt, Fred Ward, Jacqueline Bisset, and Moira Kelly, to name a few, this lush, true story captures our attention and holds it until the end. The setting is 16th century Venice. What's a girl going to do when born of a rank lower than a good marriage match deems. Why, become a courtesan, of course, trained by her very own mother.
Catherine plays Veronica Franco, whose innocent heart belongs to Marco. He is, regretfully, not allowed to marry her. It seems her building courtesan skills attract him and she then spurns him, albeit skillfully. He simply burns for her more.
The story moves along parallel to a plague ravaged Europe, political unrest, war and The Inquisition. Guess who will get accused of witchcraft.
The music is nicely compelling and the entire production is lavish. This movie was a pleasure to experience.
, Rufus Sewell, Oliver Platt, Fred Ward, Jacqueline Bisset, and Moira Kelly, to name a few, this lush, true story captures our attention and holds it until the end. The setting is 16th century Venice. What's a girl going to do when born of a rank lower than a good marriage match deems. Why, become a courtesan, of course, trained by her very own mother.Catherine plays Veronica Franco, whose innocent heart belongs to Marco. He is, regretfully, not allowed to marry her. It seems her building courtesan skills attract him and she then spurns him, albeit skillfully. He simply burns for her more.
The story moves along parallel to a plague ravaged Europe, political unrest, war and The Inquisition. Guess who will get accused of witchcraft.
The music is nicely compelling and the entire production is lavish. This movie was a pleasure to experience.
WIN BIG !!!!
5 lucky winners will be chosen to win free movies for life. They will receive unlimited movies for the rest of their life from Intelliflix! The only requirement is that they have an active SuperPass account in good standing as of December 31, 2006.
Click the Win Free Movies for Life button below.
Click the Win Free Movies for Life button below.
A CHORUS LINE
This is a 1985 release, and stars Michael Douglas as a Broadway director casting dancers for a large production. I enjoyed the movie, yet completely agree with others that the stage version is much better and makes more sense of the story line. Many people saw the stage version first. I do understand their frustration with the film; in particular, it skews the number "What I Did For Love" into emphasizing the love story between Cassie and Zach. What it's really about is the love and dedication dancers have for what they do, through all the blood, sweat and tears.
I went out of order and saw the movie first, and wound up thoroughly enjoying the stage version, a positive experience last rather than the generally negative reception from those who sequenced the other way. Best strategy is to enjoy each, the stage version and film version, for what they are - entertainment.
I went out of order and saw the movie first, and wound up thoroughly enjoying the stage version, a positive experience last rather than the generally negative reception from those who sequenced the other way. Best strategy is to enjoy each, the stage version and film version, for what they are - entertainment.
THE IDOLMAKER
This movie was released in 1980, starring Ray Sharkey and Tovah Feldshuh. Ray is Vincent Vacarri, said character being loosely based on Bob Marucci, an idolmaker in his own right - Frankie Avalon, Fabian. Vincent is ever-seeking fame and fortune, but feels he can't cut it in the spotlight himself. Those who can't, teach (and capitalize from it). His drive to succeed is merciless, on himself, and others, but his character remains deep and thoroughly likeable. Tune in, Peter Gallagher fans, he is young and hot-hot-hot in this one, while Vincent molds him into idol material. As great looking as this guy is, physically it's not a far stretch but he benefits from instruction. Memories of Ed Sullivan rock and roll first viewings - Elvis, the Beatles, etc. - will hit strongly. Great music, interesting story line...Christine Taylor (Marsha in The Brady Bunch) is a reporter who wants to do more to our Idol than just interview him.
ERIN BROCKOVICH
This 2000 release stars Julia Roberts and Albert Finney. As much as I enjoyed Pretty Woman, that performance doesn't compare to the excellent work Julia did portraying Erin Brockovich. Years ago, Albert Finney gave an excellent Tom Jones (classic movie, not the singer) portrayal.
I'm a paralegal and relate strongly to this movie - all the research and paper processing, the concern for clients, the knuckle-biting waits hoping verdicts are delivered favorably. It's a true story making it even more interesting.
Erin is a down-on-her-luck divorced mother of 3, just trying to make ends meet. She has a personal injury case after a vehicular accident, and is represented by the attorney who, after her case is lost at trial, becomes her boss (she kinda forces herself into his payroll). While working at the attorney's office, Erin happens upon the beginnings of a major class action suit against a water company that has been knowingly poisoning the residents of a town with chromium, a rust inhibitor. Nasty stuff, that chromium, when ingested. Will Erin and her boss persevere for their clients?
The real-life Erin Brockovich plays a bit part in the movie - she's a waitress at a diner.
and Albert Finney. As much as I enjoyed Pretty Woman, that performance doesn't compare to the excellent work Julia did portraying Erin Brockovich. Years ago, Albert Finney gave an excellent Tom Jones (classic movie, not the singer) portrayal.I'm a paralegal and relate strongly to this movie - all the research and paper processing, the concern for clients, the knuckle-biting waits hoping verdicts are delivered favorably. It's a true story making it even more interesting.
Erin is a down-on-her-luck divorced mother of 3, just trying to make ends meet. She has a personal injury case after a vehicular accident, and is represented by the attorney who, after her case is lost at trial, becomes her boss (she kinda forces herself into his payroll). While working at the attorney's office, Erin happens upon the beginnings of a major class action suit against a water company that has been knowingly poisoning the residents of a town with chromium, a rust inhibitor. Nasty stuff, that chromium, when ingested. Will Erin and her boss persevere for their clients?
The real-life Erin Brockovich plays a bit part in the movie - she's a waitress at a diner.
QUEEN MARGOT (La Reine Margot)
A 1994 release, this movie remains steadfastly high on my list. Settle in for French and subtitles, but it's okay, the story will sweep you away. We focus on the royal family, political unrest and Paris town events on August 24, 1572, official French history date of the Massacre of St. Bartholomew. It's a religious war (and oh, aren't those the most violent, odd, isn't it). I suppose the traditional incest has sparked THIS generation of royal idiots to think a forced wedding of Margot De Valois, sister of King Charles IX, to King Henri of Navarre will fly well. Catholics versus Hugenots. Digression: I am reminded somewhat of the Serge-Colin Angelique romance novels which capture much of the same religious/political unrest in France. End of digression. This film has it all: sex, intrigue, blood and guts, poisonings, incest, and epic beauty. Great costumes too.
Margot is played by Isabelle Adjani. She is GORGEOUS, by the way. Brother Charles is played quite convincingly by Jean-Hugues Anglade. I think Daniel Auteuil who is King Henri is enjoyable in all his performances.
Winner of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Jury Prize.
My husband, who detests epics AND subtitles, was drawn into it. Fascinating movie to experience.
Margot is played by Isabelle Adjani. She is GORGEOUS, by the way. Brother Charles is played quite convincingly by Jean-Hugues Anglade. I think Daniel Auteuil who is King Henri is enjoyable in all his performances.
Winner of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Jury Prize.
My husband, who detests epics AND subtitles, was drawn into it. Fascinating movie to experience.
New Price reduced from $13.99 to $10.99 (21% reduction)!!
EXCALIBER
This version of King Arthur's story was released in 1981. Has anyone not heard the words "the sword in the stone" at some point in life, even if simply due to an animated or book version during childhood?
Bring on the myth, Wagner and more-more-Merlin. It's definitely a fave from younger days. Lancelot to Guenivere: "As long as you live, I shall love no other." That's gotta be top ranking in the ultimate most romantic things to say.
The scene near the end with King Arthur riding out to reclaim his kingdom, Wagner at fever pitch and the scenery changing is forever etched in my memory.
Bring on the myth, Wagner and more-more-Merlin. It's definitely a fave from younger days. Lancelot to Guenivere: "As long as you live, I shall love no other." That's gotta be top ranking in the ultimate most romantic things to say.
The scene near the end with King Arthur riding out to reclaim his kingdom, Wagner at fever pitch and the scenery changing is forever etched in my memory.
THE VIKINGS
This is what entertainment's all about! Directed by (and starring) Kirk Douglas, this movie released in 1958. Ernest Borgnine is a Viking king, compelling in this rude/crude role, and Kirk is his son. A viking's life is active, raping and pillaging, and partying at night. I read somewhere that this film was tops in the box office for the 1950's, and I'd believe it.
Tony Curtis believes he's a slave. Can't imagine a better lookin' slave, rivaled only by his other slave role in Spartacus! Tony and Kirk vie for the affections of Janet Leigh (who married Tony in real life), Tony in a more endearing manner and Kirk with the grace of a wild boar in the woods.
The battles are great, the ship maneuverings fascinating, the scene with the hawk still haunts me. I've never forgotten the music either. Definitely one to add to a must-be-viewed list.
Tony Curtis believes he's a slave. Can't imagine a better lookin' slave, rivaled only by his other slave role in Spartacus! Tony and Kirk vie for the affections of Janet Leigh (who married Tony in real life), Tony in a more endearing manner and Kirk with the grace of a wild boar in the woods.
The battles are great, the ship maneuverings fascinating, the scene with the hawk still haunts me. I've never forgotten the music either. Definitely one to add to a must-be-viewed list.
SE7EN
This clever and gruesome film was released in theaters in 1995. Definitely not for the squeamish but if you can even try to peek through fingers, this movie will keep you riveted.
Morgan Freeman is a soon to retire police investigator, who gets paired with a nearly-rookie, Brad Pitt. Our young hero is married to Gwyneth Paltrow. The idea is vaguely reminiscent of the Lethal Weapon duo but it's not a laughing matter. The crimes they are investigating are heinous, and point to a diabolical serial killer who has a penchant for rendering justice upon those who have committed the "seven deadly sins." Kevin Spacey is particularly brilliant in his performance as the mad man, but all actors shine in this one creating a stark contrast with the gruesomeness. Nicely done.
Everyone has a weakness....
Morgan Freeman is a soon to retire police investigator, who gets paired with a nearly-rookie, Brad Pitt. Our young hero is married to Gwyneth Paltrow. The idea is vaguely reminiscent of the Lethal Weapon duo but it's not a laughing matter. The crimes they are investigating are heinous, and point to a diabolical serial killer who has a penchant for rendering justice upon those who have committed the "seven deadly sins." Kevin Spacey is particularly brilliant in his performance as the mad man, but all actors shine in this one creating a stark contrast with the gruesomeness. Nicely done.
Everyone has a weakness....
EDDIE IZZARD - DRESS TO KILL
Eddie Izzard, the "executive transvestite," is by far, hands down, up one side and down the other, absolutely-positively my favorite comedian. I have never laughed so hard in my life, and still enjoy popping in this 1999 dvd release to experience him all over again. My collection includes more of his standup performances, but I recommend this one as the best for first viewing. My family uses Izzard-isms daily! Do not let his self-proclaimed description and appearance deter you, this man is spectacularly hysterical.
TWO MOON JUNCTION
This one is on my guilty-pleasure list. It's a soft-core romance/drama, 1988, starring Sherilyn Fenn (Twin Peaks fame) and Richard Tyson (the dad in Kindergarten cop). Sherilyn plays a southern belle from a wealthy family, engaged to Martin Hewitt - hmm, I'm remembering him with Brooke Shields in Endless Love with the same-named theme song - the approved rich boy. She winds up having a torrid fling with Richard and ultimately has to choose between what is right for her heart, or maybe just loins, and what her family has endorsed. Her grandmother is played by Louise Fletcher (an older, sophisticated and very platinum Nurse Ratchet from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest!). Burl Ives is the Sheriff assigned to break up the lovers. Kristy McNichol is all grown up and makes an appearance vying for Richard's attention too.Shall we add more obstacles to Sherilyn's interest in Richard and her family's disapproval? Well, sure...he's a CARNEY. Let's add Herve Villechaize to the carnival craziness, and no, I'm not kidding. I figure the next time I watch this movie he'll finally reward me with a familiar cry of "the plane! the plane!"
Okay, it's definitely a chick flick but the soft-core factor will hold your attention as well, gentlemen. The bachelor and bachelorette parties are...well...fun.
A PATCH OF BLUE
Elizabeth Kata's novel released on film in 1965. Selina, played by Elizabeth Hartman, is a blind white girl befriended by Gordon Ralfe (Sidney Poitier). The atrocities Selina has endured makes this movie particularly poignant. Gordon is kind to her, and his advices and simple sharings open up a new world for Selina. Intense emotions develop. Shelley Winters plays Selina's mother, and won a Best Supportiong Actress Oscar for her performance.
TO SIR WITH LOVE
An outstanding performance by Sidney Poitier in this 1966 film. Sidney stars as Mark Thackeray. An engineering job market hasn't panned out for him, and he somewhat reluctantly takes a teaching position in a working-class London high school. His students are out of control and must be tamed. Ultimately, we can smile wondering who learned the most - the students or the teacher.
The theme song, To Sir With Love, is performed by LuLu, who also portrays one of the students.
I think all families with children ages 10 and up would benefit by setting aside some time to share this movie.
The theme song, To Sir With Love, is performed by LuLu, who also portrays one of the students.
I think all families with children ages 10 and up would benefit by setting aside some time to share this movie.
SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS
I am interspersing musicals slowly and carefully into my list so as not to scare off my non-musical audience, but this 1954 release is just too good/too fun to pass up. Adam (Howard Keel - oh my god, what a voice) needs a wife and zeros in on Milly (Jane Powell) to drag back to his Oregon Territory farm and six unruly brothers. The tiny beauty has a backbone and rises to the challenge. Milly makes believers out of them. The brothers decide they want wives of their own and kidnap more cuties from town. Whoops, they forgot to drag the preacher along too and the pass gets snowed-in for winter.
The songs are lovely, the story charming, but it's the dance choreography that brings me back again and again. There are two numbers in particular which showcase the brothers' dance skills, and they are outstanding. Julie Newmar of Catwoman fame is one of the kidnapped cuties. They stick her in the back or whisk her out completely for the more involved dance routines, but who cares, it's Julie Newmar!
The songs are lovely, the story charming, but it's the dance choreography that brings me back again and again. There are two numbers in particular which showcase the brothers' dance skills, and they are outstanding. Julie Newmar of Catwoman fame is one of the kidnapped cuties. They stick her in the back or whisk her out completely for the more involved dance routines, but who cares, it's Julie Newmar!
DEAD AGAIN
This is a thoroughly enjoyable murder-mystery/modern noir thriller starring Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson, playing love interests as well as married in real life at the time. The two learn they are also connected to each other in a past life - in the movie, that is, not necessarily in real life. With this interesting twist, the story blends two stories 40 years apart. Kenneth Branagh is convincing as a private-eye.
INVINCIBLE
I ventured to the theater today to see Invincible, starring Mark Wahlberg. Mark plays Vince Papale, a bartender who tries out for the Philadelphia Eagles. This movie has a lot of heart. It also stars Greg Kinnear as the coach...as new to the team as Vince is. Elizabeth Banks is a potential love interest, as Janet, cousin of the bar owner where Vince is employed. Her character is quite charming while rooting for the NY Giants in the heart of Philly.
It's based on the true story of Vince Papale, who did play receiver for the Eagles for three seasons. Definitely a feel-good, formula movie, along the lines of Rudy - but who doesn't love 'em. Brought to us by Disney, which has branched out in the past several years with adult releases but they still maintain a wholesomeness which is quite welcome in the midst of other movies enundated with sex, profanity and overly freakish violence. A nice breath of fresh air to check out.
It's based on the true story of Vince Papale, who did play receiver for the Eagles for three seasons. Definitely a feel-good, formula movie, along the lines of Rudy - but who doesn't love 'em. Brought to us by Disney, which has branched out in the past several years with adult releases but they still maintain a wholesomeness which is quite welcome in the midst of other movies enundated with sex, profanity and overly freakish violence. A nice breath of fresh air to check out.
LEGENDS OF THE FALL
Marvelous movie, marvelous cast in this 1994 release. Anyone noticing I'm into epics?
This blockbuster stars Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, Julia Ormond, Aidan Quinn, and Henry Thomas. It's a tale of an early 1900's family - a father and his 3 sons - who live on a sprawling ranch. Youngest son Samuel, played by Henry Thomas, brings home his fiance, Susannah. His brothers, Alfred and Tristan - Aidan and Brad respectively, also fall under her spell. Anthony Hopkins is the patriarch of the family as Colonel Ludlow.
The story itself is very good, weaving the characters in and out of passion and success, anguish, loss and acceptance. Off to war the brothers go, with an exceptionally unforgettable scene. Reunions are bittersweet and intense. That Susannah is loved by all three brothers is actually believable given the setting.
Brad Pitt is at his intense sexiest in this movie, with long hair quite appropriate for the wildness of his character. Anthony Hopkins has always been a favorite of mine, and he doesn't disappoint in this one. Julia Ormond as Susannah is lovely and tragically enraptured with Tristan (Brad). It would be difficult not to be, and yet Aidan Quinn is attractive in his more civilized way. I had a little trouble initially accepting Henry Thomas as the groom-to-be when I still see his younger face crying as E.T. left to return home, but I must admit he gave a great performance here.
This blockbuster stars Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, Julia Ormond, Aidan Quinn, and Henry Thomas. It's a tale of an early 1900's family - a father and his 3 sons - who live on a sprawling ranch. Youngest son Samuel, played by Henry Thomas, brings home his fiance, Susannah. His brothers, Alfred and Tristan - Aidan and Brad respectively, also fall under her spell. Anthony Hopkins is the patriarch of the family as Colonel Ludlow.
The story itself is very good, weaving the characters in and out of passion and success, anguish, loss and acceptance. Off to war the brothers go, with an exceptionally unforgettable scene. Reunions are bittersweet and intense. That Susannah is loved by all three brothers is actually believable given the setting.
Brad Pitt is at his intense sexiest in this movie, with long hair quite appropriate for the wildness of his character. Anthony Hopkins has always been a favorite of mine, and he doesn't disappoint in this one. Julia Ormond as Susannah is lovely and tragically enraptured with Tristan (Brad). It would be difficult not to be, and yet Aidan Quinn is attractive in his more civilized way. I had a little trouble initially accepting Henry Thomas as the groom-to-be when I still see his younger face crying as E.T. left to return home, but I must admit he gave a great performance here.
DAZED AND CONFUSED
Rich in period and rock music, this 1993 release depicts the last day of school, 1976. I graduated in 1978 - it definitely looked like my high school. I enjoy this movie, every viewing. It characterizes rights of passage and the struggles/successes within peer groups. Milla Jovovich is a character of few words but the usual striking beauty. Catch a young Joey Lauren Adams (the adorable girlfriend in Big Daddy). Ben Affleck is a bad guy! And we can't forget about Matthew McConaughey.
JEAN DE FLORETTE / MANON OF THE SPRING
These movie gems were released in 1987. They're in French so get ready for subtitles but they're worth it. Gérard Depardieu stars in Jean De Florette. The second film, Manon of the Spring, is about his daughter's revenge.
Manon is played by Emmanuelle Béart (who also played the angel in Date with an Angel - remember her beauty, movie merit in that instance debatable).
These movies are breathtakingly beautiful. Nice little twists and turns which are more apparent in the second movie, but don't cheat. Watch them both to feel the enormity of the conclusion.
THE BIG CHILL
Very high on my list.
All star cast: Kevin Kline, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldbloom, William Hurt, Tom Berenger, JoBeth Williams, Mary Kay Place, Meg Tilly. Kevin Costner is uncredited for his role...sssh, those in the know...those who don't know, try to find him in the movie.
I just adore this movie. Witty, intelligent, the dialogs are marvelous, and the comments quotable:
"I don't know anyone who could get through the day without two or three juicy rationalizations. They're more important than sex."
"Ah, come on. Nothing's more important than sex."
"Oh yeah? Ever gone a week without a rationalization?"
"It doesn't always happen the first time."
"That's not what they told us in high school."
"Amazing tradition. They throw a great party for you on the one day they know you can't come."
"He went out with a bang, not a whimper."
Great music selections as well. It's a must see!
All star cast: Kevin Kline, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldbloom, William Hurt, Tom Berenger, JoBeth Williams, Mary Kay Place, Meg Tilly. Kevin Costner is uncredited for his role...sssh, those in the know...those who don't know, try to find him in the movie.
I just adore this movie. Witty, intelligent, the dialogs are marvelous, and the comments quotable:
"I don't know anyone who could get through the day without two or three juicy rationalizations. They're more important than sex."
"Ah, come on. Nothing's more important than sex."
"Oh yeah? Ever gone a week without a rationalization?"
"It doesn't always happen the first time."
"That's not what they told us in high school."
"Amazing tradition. They throw a great party for you on the one day they know you can't come."
"He went out with a bang, not a whimper."
Great music selections as well. It's a must see!
FREAKS
FREAKS, for the true film connoisseur. Directed by Tod Browning, this is a 1932 black and white. I used this movie for years as a basis for good selection when new rental stores opened!
Fascinating little movie. It's only 66 minutes, about circus "freaks," using real circus people...most of whom ARE unusual....
Fascinating little movie. It's only 66 minutes, about circus "freaks," using real circus people...most of whom ARE unusual....
CLERKS and CLERKS II
I consider this type of comedy "dark" and these movies definitely tickle my funny bone. When I saw Clerks, released in 2000, I was charmed by its low budget black-and-white. The dialog is wonderfully clever. Viewers can follow Clerks II, in theaters now, quite well without having seen the first movie, but I honestly think half the enjoyment is missed if not seen in order. Clerks II revisits the same main characters, showing us what's happened since we've been gone.
Trivia question -- In Clerks, how many times throughout the course of the movie did Dante say, "I'm not even supposed to BE here today!"
Memorable quotes:
"My girlfriend sucked 37 d*cks!"
"In a row???"
"Cute cat. What's it's name?"
"Annoying customer."
"F*ck you, *sshole!"
"I hope it feels so good to be right. There's nothing more exhilarating than pointing out the shortcomings of others, is there."
"This job would be great if it wasn't for the f*cking customers."
Trivia question -- In Clerks, how many times throughout the course of the movie did Dante say, "I'm not even supposed to BE here today!"
Memorable quotes:
"My girlfriend sucked 37 d*cks!"
"In a row???"
"Cute cat. What's it's name?"
"Annoying customer."
"F*ck you, *sshole!"
"I hope it feels so good to be right. There's nothing more exhilarating than pointing out the shortcomings of others, is there."
"This job would be great if it wasn't for the f*cking customers."
BRAVEHEART
Probably my favorite movie, but I enjoy so many different types of movies it really is difficult to list them in order of preference.
Mel Gibson and Catherine McCormack, a winning combination. This movie was released in 1995. I can't believe it's been over 10 years! It should capture audiences with at least one of its story ingredients (romance, action, adventure, epic, battles, based on the life of William Wallace for history buffs), and will succeed in several at once.
In particular, the love theme encompassing the two stars, whose characters are William Wallace and his wife, Murron, is quite memorable and poignant. A good movie score adds so much to our enjoyment, and this one delivers. It is rated "R" for "brutal medieval warfare," and yes, there are some pretty vivid injuries in the battle scenes.
If you have not seen this movie...why not? If you have, please share your thoughts.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
