xtrsmith-1 Reviews

Wristcutters: A Love Story (2006)

beautiful

[7/10 · 30 November 2007]

I don't know why this film hasn't taken off. Since its release it has gotten a ho-hum reception despite being one of the most inspiring films of the year. Goran is a director whose name will rise to the top sooner or later.

If you get the chance you should really check it out. A well-crafted story that you haven't seen before. You know how most people describe movies by comparing them to other movies saying things like, "It's Braveheart meets Ice Age," or something like that? Well, you really can't do that when describing Wristcutters.

I would see it again.

The Savages (2007)

well crafted, but long

[6/10 · 30 November 2007]

The things I didn't like about the film are a bit picky. I really enjoyed this movie though it was so depressing it made me want to kill myself at the end. I have had to deal with the loss of both my parents and The Savages is a very deft depiction worthy of acclaim. Yet at the same time there is something that happens when writers become directors: they fall in love with every word they write.

There are many scenes that should have ended earlier or been taken out. The movie is less than two hours but it feels like it goes on for four. Editors are usually too afraid to give their directors the truth when something needs to be cut.

While the performances were very strong from both PSH and LL. Laura Linney was at times a bit shrill and it didn't help her character who was walking a tightrope with the audience anyway. The chemistry as brother and sister on screen between the actors is wonderfully played and my hats go off to them. Strong performance from Philip Bosco as well.

Worth your time, if you have it to spare.