Doug384 Reviews

Face/Off (1997)

This has a 7.3 rating from IMDb users unbelievable!

[5/10 · 2 July 2010]

I saw in the theaters when it was released in 1997. I just recently saw it again on cable TV and decided to look up a couple of details. I am truly shocked that the majority of almost 100,000 IMDb users who saw this average action film gave it a 7, 8, 9 or 10 rating! When I originally left the theater, and now years later seeing it again for the second time, I shake my head and wonder why anyone would rate this movie any higher than a 6. Simply put, it is an unexceptional movie... even for a 90s popcorn action flick.

The voting bar for mindless action films MUST be lower than the same for all other genres. That's it. That's got to be the only explanation for the 7.3 rating Face/off currently has.

All you need to know about Face/Off is that it's absolutely NOT John Travolta's, Nic Cage's, or director John Woo's best action movie work, nor is it a movie that ought to be included in a list of the top 10 best popcorn action films of the 90s as the high IMDb rating might indicate.

If you have nothing else to do for 2 hours and 18 minutes and but watch an average action film that has a lot of people jumping in the air shooting guns, extended chase sequences that go on and on and on, and various big explosions but an completely unrealistic and implausible plot lacking any real substance, then be my guest.

The Guitar (2008)

An interesting take on the subject

[6/10 · 22 June 2010]

For fans of Saffron Burrows, it will be an enjoyable 90-minutes of your time. She does the best with what little material she has to work with and turns in a gutsy, raw performance. The first half-hour is especially strong as the camera focuses almost exclusively on Burrows as her character copes with the diagnosis of a terminal illness, losing her job and being dumped by her boyfriend… all on the same day.

This is a very small budget production and it shows. The 21-day shoot makes for a slightly rushed and rough finished product. The directing by Amy Redford is on par, or slightly better, for an indie film. The sound and lighting were all acceptable as the majority of the film takes place in a huge penthouse loft with ample sunlight during the day and candle light being effectively used in the evening. There isn't much in the way of a supporting cast as this is primarily a showcase for Burrows displaying how one person might cope given this horrible scenario.

Some people will openly criticize how the Melody Wilder character initially deals with her dire situation, but I had no problem with it. I rather enjoyed it, actually. If you like Burrows or the premise as stated in the plot summary, I recommend seeing this film.

However, I personally prefer "Henry Poole Is Here," also released in 2008, by the talented director Mark Pellington (Arlington Road, The Mothman Prophecies). It has a larger budget which is used wisely by casting some well known as well as virtually unknown actors, and possesses quality direction and superior production aspects. The camera work is especially good.

Wanted (2008)

Disappointed

[6/10 · 24 July 2008]

I really enjoy a good assassin or hit-man flick. Really… I do.

After a recent string of poor to very bad trained gunmen and assassin-type films (Hitman, Shoot 'Em Up, Smokin' Aces, etc.), I had high expectations for "Wanted" given the top-rate cast and after seeing the stylistic trailer.

Unfortunately, Wanted has way too many flaws to warrant plunking down your $10-$12 to see it in the theater. At best this is a rental. Or if you are patient, wait for it to make it onto HBO or Showtime.

While it has an interesting premise, begins with strong set-up and features some great action sequences, the negatives outweigh the positives. The acting is fairly weak, the development of the protagonist (McAvoy) is rushed and unrealistic (even with my disbelief suspended), the overall pacing is way off, and the plot becomes more and more unbelievable as the movie unfolds. By the time you get to the final act you'll be shaking your head as it is just that bad.

Overall, given the talented cast involved, I was unimpressed.

The Prestige (2006)

Go see it now before spoilers get out!

[8/10 · 22 October 2006]

Run, don't walk, to your nearest cinema.

See "The Prestige" NOW before a handful of idiots ruin the movie by giving away its secrets (much like "The Crying Game" and the more recent "The Sixth Sense").

There will always be those that ignore common decency and will post or tell the 'tricks' behind the general movie magic and tricks of the film.

The Prestige deserves better. It deserves to be seen untainted. Don't read the reviews or discuss it with anyone... just go see it.

Chris Nolan is a brilliant director and the acting (especially the supporting cast) and production is top notch.

Your brain will spin trying to figure it out... but in a good way.

Hearts in Atlantis (2001)

Absolutely worth seeing!

[8/10 · 29 June 2002]

Forget all of the negative comments any of the previous users have written about this movie. Just rent it on DVD and enjoy. You will NOT be disappointed. Great cast, wonderful acting, superb sets, amazing directing and cinematography. this is what REAL movie making is all about.

If you have time, don't miss director Scott Hicks' insightful commentary. it'll explain things for those of you who were- for some reason- unhappy with the story or characters.