kballey Reviews

Cry-Baby (1990)

Extremely obnoxiously campy -- and not in a good way!

[1/10 · 18 September 2006]

I can understand the desire to do a campy film, but this one was hideously overdone -- it was painful and embarrassing to watch. Yes, there are a few laughs, but it is so not-worth-it! It is interesting to note how many talented actors are in this; thus making it sadder still -- such a waste of talent. The idea behind the movie is funny, but the screen-play could have used a few more re-writes and the director ought to have paid closer attention to the fact that the audience would be made to suffer through the boredom of watching the same grotesquely over-used facial expression and hearing the same flat delivery for a variety of stupid lines. I know this movie isn't supposed to be taken seriously, but it goes far beyond being just good farcical fun and ends up being a dreadful waste of film. Anyone who tells you this is a great movie is not to be trusted; their taste is obviously highly questionable.

Kung Fu (1972–1975)

Wonderfully made

[15 June 2005]

I was too young to have been able to enjoy this as a child and I never saw any re-runs while growing up, so I was just exposed to these shows recently. They are absolutely marvelous; they are well-directed and well-acted. Subtlety is used very well; unlike many things we see today that just beat you over the head with their agenda or their punchlines. What a wonderful example is set of using wisdom and soft-spoken patience rather than snappy comebacks and bravado when faced with conflict and contention. I recommend these to anyone who appreciates quality.

My children have been watching these programs and they all find them fascinating and compelling. The "fight scenes" in these shows are handled very well and are not overdone as would likely be done in one of our current productions. It is wonderful to be able to take part in the main character's spiritual education and to be given the words of wisdom that he received during his training. These shows will give you many things to ponder and appreciate.