RogueSix_85 Reviews

The Hunt for Red October (1990)

The action-thriller to end all action-thrillers

[10/10 · 20 January 2006]

After seeing this movie, you'll wonder how Hollywood manages to turn out so many junk-action movies, now that they've figured out the right formula. To be fair, the vast majority of action movies don't have the benefit of Tom Clancy's greatest novel (granted, 'Sum of All Fears' was a very, very close second, for me). High tension and realistic (emphasis on that last word) depictions of modern warfare make for an excellent story.

Nonetheless, there are a few key qualities that shouldn't go unnoticed to today's directors. First (again) is the basis of a good plot that actually captures your attention, makes you think, and puts you on the edge of your seat. Second is the high caliber of actors: James Earl Jones, Alec Baldwin (I'm a Harrison Ford fan, but I still think Baldwin was far better for the role), and - last but certainly not least - Sean Connery. I'm sure this wasn't cheap, but when you look at the product produced by three of the best professional actors, it's worth every penny. Third, is the great music; nothing too over the top, but well-orchestrated, and featuring a great set of pieces by a Russian men's choir (hard to go wrong!). Lastly, the great use of special effects, from which George Lucas himself could use a clue or two: it smoothly supports, and doesn't take the place of or interfere with, the development of the plot.

This is my #2 favorite movie of all-time, but you don't have to take my word for it. See it yourself! You'll be glad you did.

Amadeus (1984)

You'll think, you'll laugh, you'll cry - and you'll learn something, too

[10/10 · 20 January 2006]

Very, very few movies have all their pieces - acting, photography, plot, music, etc - come together in a more powerful way than they do in this film. Salieri is magnificent; the camera captures every subtle gesture while still taking in the staging of each delightful scene; the story is fascinating, and made only more dramatic by the exquisitely-performed soundtrack, featuring music by Herr Mozart himself and a few other contemporary pieces (played by St Martins-In-The-Fields, it fills three CDs and is worth every penny).

Even my friends who do not enjoy classical music had to admit that this was a very well-done period piece. It poses an interesting philosophical dilemma, a hero-villain for whom we cannot help but feel empathetic, and gives us a glimpse into the fascinating politics, power, and music of the Classical Age.

One word of advice: Do NOT see the Director's Cut. Several key scenes were added and changed that, I found, made a tremendous difference to my evaluation of the main characters and events in the film.