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Reviews
Cool Money (2005)
Interesting for the time line of events but not much else.
I was eager to watch Cool Money as the idea for the heist was conceived in my home town of Rochester. The robbery of the Pierre Hotel in New York City actually took place in 1972 but the film is made to look like it could have taken place in the present. It seems to me that if you are going to make a film about a historic event (the largest robbery in New York City history), then you should make the effort to create it for the correct time period. The only hint of the period was Sammy's wardrobe. I know all about creative license but even most of the scenes that supposedly took place around Rochester were wrong. There is no "Rochester Downs" race track, the Rochester Police Department is not broken down by precincts and there has never been a Rochester Examiner newspaper. Perhaps the production company would have been better off coming to Rochester to film rather than go across Lake Ontario to Toronto. In my opinion, things like this only cheapen a film. The acting was pretty good (loved Margot Kidder's portrayal of Bobby's mother) though some of the characters were rather transparent. If you're looking for a film that gives some idea of the events that lead up to the heist, then this film is fine, otherwise, don't waste your time.
Thumbtanic (2000)
Who ever said 'Too many hands spoil the broth'?
It just goes to show you what a little money, a lot of imagination and a lot of friends can do. My compliments to the creators of this little gem. Brought tears of laughter to my eyes; one of the funniest films I've seen in a long time. Definitely worth taking the 30 odd minutes to watch for a laugh.
If I were Ebert and Roper I'd give it two thumbs up!
Last Night (1998)
A Bittersweet Story (just one tiny spoiler)
This is one of the most thought provoking films I've ever watched. The way the world ends is superfluous, the fact that the world is about to end in just six hours is more important. The range of emotions of the film's characters (including the extras) and the diversity of how they choose to live the remainder of their six hours is the real backbone of this film. One thing I really liked was the fact that the characters are so unassuming and true to life and that their surroundings were so average. I'm sure that many viewers can identify with at least one character to someone they know. Every character in this film has their own special purpose right down to the voice from the gas company. Every time I watch this film I find the ending to be so mind numbing because I can't find the emotion that is the strongest within me. Outstanding film in all aspects.
As a side note: I've been to Toronto many, many times over the years (it helps when you live across the lake) and it was a real pleasure to see the average, every day locations of the city and not the sparkle and high paced life that Toronto is known for.
Mother, Mother (1989)
Film comment with spoiler attached
A very good film that deals with the controversial issues of AIDS and parents who refuse acknowledgment of their gay children. My only complaint about the film was that it was too short. An hour-long film, in my opinion would have been better. This would have allowed for more in-depth study of the characters.
I gave this film such a high rating because I felt that the story line itself was very good and the actors were exceptional in their performances.