Reviews
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Over-rated
Firstly, the lionisation of Spielberg must stop. He hasn't made a "Classic" film since Jaws. And SPR although interesting, is by no means in that category. My main problem with it comes from Spielberg himself. As a previous user commented, he contradicts himself with his attempt to unglorify war, and yet plaster patriotic and nationalistic symbols all over the screen. The 'war is pointless' theme is a meritable one, but in painting the US soldiers to be victims, there is no thought to the feelings of the ordinary German soldiers, who were surely experiencing the same fears. They are portrayed as ruthless, cold-blooded and evil.
Also, Spielberg would have us believe that US won the war on their own. Despite traipsing across French countryside for miles, not one British, Canadian, Australian, French (etc) soldier is seen. The bridge they defended at the end was actually in reality, held by a joint Anglo-American force. Spielberg's reputation is such that historical inaccuracies like these are damaging. As for the opening scene, yes it is involving, spectacular, scary and all the rest. But the camera techniques have been used before by Kubrick and Peckinpah etc. He is not a genius.
Carlito's Way (1993)
Awesome
This is one of the coolest movies ever made! It oozes sex appeal, excitement, suspense and style.
It is also Pacino's best film since Sea of Love and one of his
best ever.
Great cast, great script, great soundtrack and great film!!!!!
Small Time (1996)
Brilliant
This is one of the most under-rated films of all time. It perfectly describes life on a council-estate in nineties
Britain and is down-right hilarious. The women in this film play spot-on parts, and the whole thing is perfectly acted with a tight script and brilliant lines. It is very conversation driven, very fast and if you are not clued in, may miss some of the humour
The Godfather Part III (1990)
Very Good
It's an excellent film which neatly ties up the series.
It shows Michael's development and his redemption.
Sofia Coppola is not great but she brings a sense of family to the film.
It's problem is it is eclipsed by the other two films and if judged independently is a cracking good film.