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stevenrspence
Reviews
Chopper (2000)
Entertaining, biopic of an Australian Legend
I went into the movie expecting to find out about Mark "Chopper" Reid, I came out not knowing a lot more except the fact Chopper was cool, and that is what the filmmakers wanted you to take out of it anyway. Despite a real lack of plot it doesn't matter because you are so entertained by Chopper. The writing is great, there are so many memorable quotes I was still thinking about them for days afterwards. You should see this movie at least to see the other side of Australia
The God Boy (1976)
Pioneering New Zealand Movie, Based on a Below Average Novel
Released back in 1976 this was a landmark New Zealand film, being the first one to be shown on British TV. Unfortunately being a pioneering film it is more than a little dated now. It is almost completely filmed on location and a lot outdoors. This means it suffers from poor sound quality, and a lack of variety in camera angles. Much of the acting especially in the minor roles is rather hammy.
However despite thes drawbacks the movies has many positives. Jamie Higgins is outstanding as Jimmy Sullivan who plays the part with a lot of credibility in what would have been a difficult role. Ivan Beavis as Jimmys old companion Bloody Jack, who Jimmy eventually turns on alsohas credibility. Thematically it is very similar to Neil Jordans "The Butcher Boy"or "Angelas Ashes", it contains a examination of the Catholic Church, Alcoholism, Old Age, Domestic Violence and most importantly growing up. Unfortunately it skips over these issues rather than providing any insight or original thought.
However if you can find a copy of this, it is not a bad movie which is certainly a lot clearer than the Ian Cross novel