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Reviews
Hangman's Curse (2003)
Too much Spy Kids
I rented this movie basically because of its cover. It looked kind of spooky and dark and that is just what I expected; a dark and mysterious thriller. What I got was a family film, more in the vein of "Scooby Doo" and "Spy Kids".
It is basically about a family solving mysterious situations at a high school where the local law enforcers fail. The kids go undercover as students (duh, didn't see that one coming) and get right sucked into a rivalry between the popular football team, aka bullies, and the outcasts of the school. Not too original.
The acting is not mindblowing, but neither is it in any way annoying. The grand finale in the end where the mystery is revealed is kind of a letdown and if you spotted the clues during the film (you have great pointers by the way) you will see it coming a mile away.
This movie is a kids movie, but is PG-13 rated, which makes it fall between the chair of the kid audience and the sophisticated older watchers. The cover and the rating made me think of something more like "Wire in the Blood", but in the end, this movie is too much Spy Kids. Avoid if you are allowed to watch.
Chance (2002)
No, not really, no.
I will start by saying I don't really fancy low budget movies, I like my movies well produced (as in production, not advertising). Still, I appreciate a good plot when I see one. I'm sorry but this movie wasn't at all what I expected. I guess I got myself worked up over the "female Kevin Smith"-thing I read here somewhere. Honestly, this movie, or perhaps project is more suiting, should never be compared with Kevin Smiths masterpieces at all. The plot was messy, no thread to hold on to really, the characters was not convincing or interesting, and the acting was bad, except for James Marsters. But you should consider that it is a low budget movie, so perhaps I just had to high expectations. Personally, I understand why they have a hard time finding someone to ship this movie. I wouldn't recommend this project to anyone really. Go watch tv instead. 4/10
The Butterfly Effect (2004)
Bravo Ashton Kutcher
After starring in some seriously mediocre comedy movies, starring this feature was a stroke of genius by the young actor. I have never thought of Kutcher as a talented actor, more of a "always play the pretty guy" - not that I find him that pretty - kind of an actor. In actually having to do some serious acting, he immediately earned my respect. I am not saying he is Oscar material, but in this movie, he shows that at least he has the potential to become a really great actor. By starring in this feature, he also kind of broke away from always starring in comedy. Smart move. Now considering the actual movie; this is a smart and mystic well-acted film. I urge anyone to go watch it. The cast are more then convincing in their roles, I especially like the actors playing the early years. As for the script, there is not much to say. It's great. Thumbs up for a nice soundtrack as well. To summarize: One of the shiny gems that sometimes can be found in the enormous pile of Hollywood thrash. Go watch.
Harvard Man (2001)
Intense
I wouldn't say this movie is ordinary. There is something about it that makes it stick out of the crowd. Perhaps it is the exquisite camera work, perhaps the intensity and the tempo of it, or maybe merely the fact that the acting performance is excellent. It might be a bit intense at the start, but once you pass the threshold, you get sucked into the story. Anyway it is a good movie, and even if the story is not unique itself, the movie truly is. Watch it, it's worth the money renting.
The Unsaid (2001)
Not really that original, but still a solid movie
This is not a film with an amazing script, nor has it special effects that will blow you away. Still, there is something about it that makes it distinguish itself from others.
The plot is quite standard for this kind of psychological thriller, but it has its moments, and you can expect some surprises. But it is the solid acting combined with great illumination- and sound techniques that really makes this film worthwhile. Andy Garcia truly shows that he is a great actor, and the supporting actors seem more than believable to me.
All these factors combined results in a solid movie which I highly recommend to anyone.
Waking Life (2001)
Cannot be described in words
Something crucial with this film is the following: It is not the plot that is important, it is the message.
Everyone open-minded can in one way or another can take part of this message. At first glance, it seems that the film doesn't really have a plot, the animation is widely disappointing and nothing ever happens. But when the credits start to roll, you realize that the plot is amazing, and every little detail in the animation serves its purpose. I cannot justify this film in words, it has to be experienced.
All of you who don't like "talk"-films or/and philosophical nonsense, do not bother watching this film, because you will be hugely disappointed. Everyone else will definitely get something out of this film. And it will surely make you wonder if you're awake....
10/10
The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
"The Far Side" on screen
This is one of those movies you either love or hate. The subtle humor somewhat makes me think of Gary Larsons famous comic "The Far Side". All do not like it, but the ones who do like it, likes it a lot. But regardless of weather you like the script or not, you cannot discard the greatness of this film. No words can describe the brilliance of the acting this ensemble preform. This film has no flaws. Those who do not understand or appreciate this kind of witty and intelligent humor might find this film boring. Luckily, I was not one of them.
9/10
Ghost World (2001)
Boring...
I have never read the comic behind the film, and after this, I most likely never will. The director probably wanted to distinguish this film from other average teen movies. Well, the plot isn't exactly standard, and Enids cynical perspective of the world surely gives the film some extra spice. The only problem with this film is that it isn't funny at all. You only wait for it to end. Perhaps fans of the comic might appreciate this film, although I have my doubts. To summarize: A complete and utter failure. Not worth watching.
The Majestic (2001)
A Fabulous Feel-Good Movie About the American Dream
This is an all american movie, about the american dream. I think that line describes it well. Although I normally do not fancy this type of feel-good movies, I will have to make an exception for this one. In some way, this movie touched me on the inside. The plot is really nothing special, and to say that the movie is unpredictable would be a flat out lie. But what makes this movie special is the acting. All actors are convincing in their roles, but it is the sole effort of Jim Carrey that raises this movie to the skies. He is absolutely amazing, and certainly deserves an Academy Award-nomination. All these factors makes "The Majestic" a fabulous feel-good movie about the american dream.