Grumpyoldman Reviews

Deliverance (1972)

Still scary, after all these years

[8/10 · 3 June 2006]

Never a huge Burt Reynolds fan, I believe he gives a spot on performance here as a tough city man trying to stamp his mark on nature. Jon Voight gives his usual great value. Were this film to be made in the 21st Century, it would doubtless be over-produced, cost a fortune and be all the worse for it. This film is one of a good number of examples of the fact that a tense, disturbing story does not need a huge budget. Naturally, the film is now dated in many ways but the period feel adds to its appeal now and the events could occur as easily today as in their early 70s depiction. The duelling banjos tune is hauntingly used throughout the picture and skillfully brought into the story early on in the drama. If you haven't watched this movie for a while, take the opportunity when it arises and enjoy the performances and the tale.

Thelma & Louise (1991)

Road movie with a twist

[7/10 · 20 May 2006]

Thelma & Louise is a celebration of life. Ridley Scott makes a very different film once again and seems to refuse to be pigeon-holed. There is much comment about this being a "male bashing" film. I would say ignore it: I have found this movie to provide great entertainment each time I have watched it. The protagonists are likable and, as with every good anti-hero, we start wanting them to get away with it. Road movies usually appeal to me but they can be variable in quality. Thelma & Louise is one which holds you from start to finish. The storyline is far fetched at times but I doubt that the film was intended to be super realistic, rather to provide an engaging thrill ride. They got the job done without question.

Ride with the Devil (I) (1999)

A masterful movie

[9/10 · 20 May 2006]

Ang Lee is one of a small group of directors who rarely make a disappointing film. Ride with the Devil contains many elements that are woven together to provide an absorbing film. These include gritty, realistic action sequences, stunning cinematography, a fascinating romance, terrific dialogue, great acting and a well crafted plot. I had been unaware of this aspect of the American Civil War and the film brings home just how divisive such a conflict is. Tobey Maguire is spot on but all of the cast contribute to a powerful experience. Watch this for a film that is about giving you superb entertainment and not a cynical attempt to cash in at the box office.

Falling Down (1993)

Michael Douglas turns in a superb performance

[7/10 · 19 May 2006]

I watched this film on TV last night, having seen it on a number of occasions before, although not for several years now. It is now feeling rather dated but still delivers a great picture of alienation in modern society. I am not normally a huge fan of Michael Douglas but this is his finest hour. It is also one of those films that you get something else out of each time you see it. Of course, one might say that of virtually any picture but some just seem like Russian Dolls. The scene in the burger bar is still great: "The customer is always right - that's not our policy, Sir". So if, like me, its been a while, watch it and see a life unravel before your eyes.

The Bourne Supremacy (2004)

One of the best sequels I have seen

[7/10 · 19 May 2006]

The sequel to a successful film is so often a disappointment. In this case though, a second gripping thriller has joined the franchise. Matt Damon reprises his role as Jason Bourne in fine style. Nevertheless, I personally feel that the film fell a little short of the superb standard set by The Bourne Identity. The jerky camera and disjointed editing were perhaps just a little bit too much. I appreciate that these techniques were employed to add atmosphere and to assist in the delivery of the necessary twists in the plot. Having said that, this film is well worth seeing and would surely please if you are seeking an exciting movie for the evening.

Shadowlands (1993)

A beautiful film

[10/10 · 19 May 2006]

This film would not normally be the kind I would choose to see. However, it is the only movie to make me cry as an adult. This is despite the fact that the subject matter seems far less important than, say, "Schindler's List". Perhaps though it is as important because it operates at a human level that is easier for most of us to relate to. Although I was familiar with C. S. Lewis, I had not previously known enough about him to be aware of his love for Joy Gresham and the outcome of their relationship. That perhaps made it all the more powerful. Perfect acting and a story that is simple, yet so moving. Less is most certainly more.