Note: After an eight month respite Shafe returned in late February
2001 to reviewing movies on-line. The password to returning to writing reviews
is "pithy." Short, focused, to the point, that's what you will find
in the newest reviews. Shafe feels there is plenty of information about the
plots of films, who stars in them, etc. at sites such as Internet
Movie Database, and the popular press. Here he tries to share his opinion
in a brief, easy to read format.
You can browse through all the reviews by scrolling down or click
on a letter to jump to that section,
Well, enough of the explanation, on with the reviews....
| A
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A.I. Artificial Intelligence (7/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.0 
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 1.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.0
Disappointing, violent, and heartless. Like David, the robot boy
played by Haley Joel Osment, this film is never truly able to find its
heart – maybe because it simply doesn't have one. The flash of production
and big name stars, including Steven Spielberg as director, make you think
you're off to see a wonderful film, that unfortunately is not the case.
Besides a film that doesn't seem to know where it wants to go, it seem
to offer about three places to end, but just won't give up. Spielberg's
public persona seems to be one of a concerned and sensitive member of
society, given that someone with the clout of Spielberg would have control
over the movie's previews it is profoundly disappointing that what is
cast as loving story about a child robot is in many cases a grotesquely
violent film that clearly deserves an "R" versus a "PG-13" rating. This
is not a film for children, and decapitation, and numerous scenes of robots
being destroyed by acid being purposeful poured on their heads or other
forms of violence for human gratification are far from what we've been
sold. Spielberg should be ashamed, and joins the legions of Hollywood
Hypsters who care more about money than the truth.
TOP
Almost Famous
(9/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
It did it! It promised a good film, and gave us a great one. A delightful
story, a fantastic sound track (worth the purchase on CD), and actors
and story who just make you wish the film would never end. Full of life
and for baby boomers memories from our past.
TOP
American
Beauty (10/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
Brilliant, superb, memorable. One of the finest films I have ever seen.
The irony, dialogue, and movement of the story through time as well as
an emotional space is riveting. A brief description - a family starts
to fall apart as the husband quits his job (wishes to seduce his daughter's
best friend), the wife has an affair and the daughter begins a relationship
with the abused boy next door – in no way prepare you for such a fine
film. The movie's ability to tell the story without relying on cultural
cliches is wonderful. Multiple academy award nominations, all deserved.
TOP
America's
Sweethearts (7/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.0
This movie rival's last year's Pay
It Forward in terms of disappointment. Staring Julia Roberts, Billy
Crystal, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and John Cusack, I figured it was destined
to be pretty entertaining. What you get is Billy Crystal lite (if that's
even possible), as he co-wrote the script. No edge, lackluster at best.
The most enjoyable part is John Cusack who holds up his end of the bargain
by turning in a delightful performance - alas, not enough to save this
stinker of a film.
TOP
American Pie (7/22/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5 
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Say what you will, this movie will hold up as a classic coming of age,
sex-filled, low-brow, comedy. The phrase, “remember the part where….,”
will become the battle cry for this film. From start to finish the over-the-top
visuals, risqué humor, disgusting jokes, and nudity, make you laugh. Add
in a healthy helping of just about the most embarrassing situations you
can imagine, with some delightfully rude and crude characters and you
have a winning sophomoric comedy. Even if it is about high school seniors.
For the older viewer (I guess that’s anyone over, say, 30) bits of The
Graduate, and Porky’s will make this even funnier. Go with a group, sit
together, and what the hell, talk a bit to each other during this movie.
You’ll be glad you went.
TOP
American Pie
2 (9/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Loved it, laughed, howled, stomped my feet, and nudged poor Laura (person/friend
to my left) so many times with my elbow I may be charged with battery.
The original was better in terms of well... being the original. Overall
this one was a better all-round movie. Not for the faint of gross-out
humor, but if you are tough enough to take it, this is one funny movie.
I'll likely see it again. Sure you'll say some scenes are terrible, and
then you'll spend the next week telling people about them.
TOP
Analyze This (3/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.5
You may have heard of the plot... Billy Crystal is a very reluctant psychiatrist,
Robert DeNiro is a mafia boss desperately in need of counseling (by his
own diagnoses). You take it from there, mafia boss wants to be tough,
therapist wants him to get in touch with his feelings. Funny? Yea, it
was. There really are some cute lines, I'd even say I laughed out loud
a few times. Would this one work on video? You bet, I wouldn't run out
to see it on the big screen, but if ya had the time and wanted some fun,
sure go to the movies. Lisa "how boring can I be" Kudrow plays Crystal's's
wife, please...... The best parts are the mafia guys being mafia guys,
just enough over the top to make it pretty darn fun. And the last scene
in the warehouse is a stitch. Not great, not bad, mostly just what you'd
expect.
TOP
Apocalypse
Now Redux (9/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
A masterpiece, one of the best films ever made, simply made better.
TOP
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| B
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Bandits (10/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
So much promise, such mediocre delivery. With Brice Willis, Billy Bob
Thornton and Cate Blancett obviously having a good time on screen, the
screenplay just didn't snap enough to bring this film to life. A disappointment,
though on video a fun time.
TOP
Being John Malkovich
(November 14, 1999)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Like the many strange paradoxes of this movie I think this movie will
become better over time. The scores above reflect that five year now this
will become a better movie than it is today. How is that possible? How
is it possible to enter a portal into John Malkovich’s mind through a
small door behind a filing cabinet on the 7 ½ floor? Neither questions
have good answers. (Okay maybe one of them does. Which one is up to you.)
This film works on many levels, as comedy, as introspection as to why
so many people long to be someone else, as creative piece worth viewing.
The scripts moves the plot right along, nothing boring here, and the puppetry
itself is an amazing sight. Confused don’t worry, you will be.
TOP
Big Daddy (7/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
What a pleasant surprise. I was out of town for work, a hot muggy evening
in the southland, and there wasn’t much to see at the local theater. So,
what the heck, I’d check out Bid Daddy with Adam Sandler. Funny, well
written, cute, only gross in a few spots, and all-in-all a positive message
about taking care of each other, love between parents and kids and some
good hearty laughs along the way. No masterpiece, but certainly worth
a viewing, a bargin at video prices and the big screen is not required
to get the basically heart warming tale.
TOP
Blast From the Past
(2/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 1.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 0.5
The idea sounds good, even funny. A family goes under ground into a 35
year time-locked bomb shelter. The son, played by Brendan Fraser finally
gets to see the real world at age 35 (he was born shortly after the family
scurried for cover), and meets a nice young women, played by Alicia Silverstone
(of Clueless fame which I loved). Anyway.... it should be funny, it should
provide insight into how 1962 is so much different than now. It doesn't.
For a better time than the movie just have someone who has seen it tell
you about the funny parts... trust me it will be much better this way.
Hokey, corny, and without an edge. I'd give this one a miss.
TOP
Blow (5/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
A "based on a true story" film looking at one man's rise and fall in the
marijuana and cocaine industry in this country. A sure hit for Johnny
Depp afficionados, and not a mad film all together. At times characters
seem cut-out versus true to life. I suspect there are much better films
about drugs in the country, Traffic to name one.
TOP
Bowfinger (on
video 2/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
A funny, cleaver, cute film with some real laughs. Steve Martin starts
in this script he wrote and provides us with a film that amuses from start
to finish. The dual Eddie Murphy role is perhaps the best part, and the
poking of fingers at various Hollywood stereotypes is pleasurable to watch.
Definitely worth a video rental.
TOP
Bridget
Jones Diary (5/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Wonderful, fun, well written and very funny movie. The only thing, fair
or not, that keeps this form from getting four Shafe's is that Notting
Hill is even better. This film will work both at the movie theater
and on video. Fun twist and turns, and just a rousing, jolly good time.
TOP
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| C
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Cast Away (12/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
A wonderful film, but interesting to note that the same film with minor
actors would have been at your local art house. Forty-five minutes without
dialogue or music is unheard of in modern films, though a much welcome
break from the over production of many films. A gentle story, that does,
as it sets out to do, leads to ask questions about our own lives. Better
to see on the big screen, but worth seeing on any medium.
TOP
Chocolat (12/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
What a fun movie. You cared, you hoped, you laughed, you became angry.
And afterwards you really wanted some chocolate. A fun time with love,
and how we judge each other. Rated PG-13 and good film for young adults
to see as a vehicle to how outsiders are treated in new environments.
TOP
Cider House Rules
(2/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
I loved it! What can I say. A story of compassion, life, decisions and
love. Based on the John Irving novel by the same name, this film tells
the story of a young man growing up in an orphanage, setting out to see
the world, and ultimately having to make some difficult decisions. I was
truly touched by the way the orphanage is depicted, as a home for many
youth, all aching for a home of their own. The prayer said by those left
behind when one of their own is adopted is sincerely touching. The best
part of this film is simply that it sets out to tell a story and does
that very well. Nothing fancy, just solid acting that engages the mind,
and spirit. What else could one ask for?
TOP
(The)
Contender (11/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
A political story the way they should be told: great plot, engaging characters,
someone to hate, questions raised, a few twists and turns (but not too
many), and a truly entertaining experience. A wonderful movie experience.
Some felt it would be better without the last ten minutes, I chalked it
up to "Hollywood" and still give it four Shafe's.
TOP
Cookie’s Fortune
(4/20/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Pure Altman project. Crisply defines characters, a screenplay built as
much on story and dialogue as plot. Moments of pure real life followed
by quirky snippets of insightful behavior. Like a gentle raft ride on
a Spring say, much of the time you just watch the incredible scenery as
you drift by, the occasional riffle gives you cause to giggle, then it’s
back to relaxing. Why strain as the warm sun coats your body, why over
think as this enjoyable movie tells its tale. Wonderful jazz and blues
rifts provide a keen sense of time and space, and the notable stars seems
to be enjoying themselves more that in the usual Hollywood vehicle. Nothing
explodes, only one person dies, justice is and is not served, and few
plots send you home delighted that you took the time to see this movie.
TOP
crazy/beautiful (7/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
A smart film that left me feeling like there are film makers who know
how to combine films that appeal to teenagers and grand stories. Actually,
the story is not so grand – rich, Caucasian, privileged girl wastes her
talents, while poor, Hispanic, struggling boy makes the most of his life
– but, the telling of it is. Skillfully made with a soundtrack that works
without being over powering. A film most folks won't see, but should.
TOP
Crouching
Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Amazing blend of visual text and spoken (if subtitled) text. Time flew
by, as did characters on the screen. Strong female roles. Fun on video,
great on the big screen. Only drawback was confusion among some characters
– who was who. Others confirmed this confusion. Well worth seeing.
TOP
Cruel Intentions
(3/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Can you imagine spending your time on such a movie as a teen treatment
inspired by the French, Les Liaisons Dangereuse (Dangerous Liaisons).
Sure Cruel Intentions received fairly high praise in many circles, and
is enjoying a decent run at the box office. So, "if" someone were to see
this movie this is what I suspect they might say: It's Body Heat for teens.
Body Heat (the Cathleen Turner, William Hurt flick) is known for it's
steamy sexual undertones. A favorite movie trick question is how many
times did Turner appear nude in Body Heat? People swear she did, she didn't
Her sexuality and sensualness was more intensified with her clothes on
than off, it was all in the suggestion. The same goes for the trio of
Cruel Intentions. Years from now teens will recall seeing Sarah Michelle
Gellar nude, but they will be mistaken – it never happens. The movie plays
like a big cartoon of ruthless characters, but like comic books with great
characters you can't bring yourself to turn away. You enjoy it, you know
you shouldn't, and wonder just where the plot will turn next. Get a big
hat, buy some oversized sunglasses, a Groucho Marx nose and treat yourself
to one of the better teen treatments I've.. I mean someone might see.
Sinfully good.
TOP
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| D
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Deuce Bigalow Male
Gigolo (12/18/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.5
Low brow, potty humor, more potty humor, juvenile, twisted, unrespectfull
of people and their physical and emotional deformities. Funny, gut busting,
really funny – you want the humor? You can't handle the humor! It's less
than a hour and half long and does a right fine job bringing some really
big laughs to those who are open to such a silly movie with such a silly
premise. Deuce Bigalow is a fish tank cleaner, Deuce brakes the fish tank
of the gigolo he is house sitting for and has to become a gigolo himself
to make the money to fix the tank so he won't get in trouble. Add the
women he "dates" a huge African-American women (450+ lbs.), a 9 nine foot
tall gal (you never see her head), a women with Tourette Syndrome, and
the wife of a local cop hot on the gigolo's trail and you get the picture.
The film is rated "R" that's a big hint to leave the kids at home.
TOP
(The) Dish (9/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
Thoroughly delightful tale of what happens in Australia as they man the
station with the "Dish" (satellite dish) that will received the first
images on man walking on the moon. Cleaver, fun, funny, well-acted, smart,
touching.
TOP
Dr. Dolittle 2 (7/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.5
Yes, I saw this movie. Didn't see the first one so I have nothing to compare
it to. I got a bit, a wee-bit, of a kick out of this. Funny enough, though
certainly no gut busting laughs, and let's face it – the type of film
is one children would enjoy much better. Eddie Murphy seems reined in
a bit, and playing a bit more "outside" might have helped
TOP
Dogma (12/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
When folks from Hollywood saw the movie The Player, they must have enjoyed
the inside humor of this very inside movie. Well, now I know how they
felt. Being raised Catholic, and knowing a bit more dogma that is safe,
and a lot less than is totally necessary to completely get this movie
- I had a great time. It is funny, but not a comedy. It is insightful,
but not a bellybutton staring competition. And it is violent and even
gory in places, but not to the point (or near) repulsion. It is an engaging,
creative look at religion, rules, rule breakers and the ridiculousness
of "getting into heaven" if you happen to an angel placed on earth by
an angry God. I loved it, and think it will get better over time.
TOP
Down to Earth
(3/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.5
Chris Rock lite is what it was. and that's not all bad. The remake of
1978's Heaven Can Wait,
which is the remake of 1941's Waiting
for Mr. Jordan. A man taken to soon from earth and the put back in
another body. Some good laughs, good natured and at PG-13 not a cuss,
sex, violent-vest at all. Real fun for the home video, a so-so comedy
for the big bucks.
TOP
Duets (9/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
What can I say, sure I'm a bit embarrassed, and while this might not seem
like a four Shafe film, I just ate it up from beginning to end. Just enough
karaoke singing scenes to delight, not too many to more. Add in some characters
which the previews never hinted at and you have yourself a downright fun
and delightfully entertaining film. I say, a must see. And, I'll be seeing
it again on video.
TOP
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| E
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EDtv (sneak preview)
(3/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.0
What was about this movie? The theater was full for the sneak preview,
I was in a good mood, dinner was tasty, no one was kicking the back of
my chair. The premise was relatively engaging, I have a mini-crush on
Jenna Elfman (at least in her role of Dharma in real TV's Dharma and Greg),
and I even laughed out loud a few times. But something was both missing
and not missing. What was missing was a heart, the ability to really get
into the mind of the characters. The bad guys (and gals) were bad enough,
and the good guys (and gals) were fun enough but that spark of enjoyment,
of "good" humor was lacking in too many places. What wasn't missing was
about 20+ minutes of this film. The film runs about 120 minutes, I say
let the first 85 run, clip out the next 20 (leave them on the cutting
room floor), and finish up with last 15 minutes. That would make for a
much tighter movie. There are funny lines, you'll get to laugh, it's worth
seeing if nothing better is playing, just don't expect As Good As It Gets.
One parting shot: Rob Reiner has a significant part in the film as a TV
executive, and I'm guessing that he's good friends with this movie's director
Ron Howard. As you may know Rob Reiner is a big anti-tobacco advocate,
for which I really admire, support and praise him. So why is that the
moral compass of this movie, a character (played by Ellen DeGeneres) who
in many ways is smarter than them all, who is seen in scene after scene
working out seems to always be seen with a cigarette in her hands. It
doesn't fit the character and it doesn't fit the movie... I just don't
get it.
TOP
Election (6/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
Fun characters, swift script, not your average high school movie. Intertwined
plots that show each is not as they seem, and each has weaknesses as well
as strengths. Reese Witherspone does a remarkable job as the over achieving
wanna be student body president. This is a perfect home video rental movie.
It does require the big screen. Seen with others I'm sure it would be
even funnier. (I viewed with a handful of other movie goers, it would
have viewed much better on a full house.) Like many similar movies the
"way are they now" glimpse at the end of the movie does provide some food
for thought.
TOP
Enemy of the State
(1/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
I'm still trying to decide of I'm disappointed I didn't see it sooner,
or that I'm thrilled I had the sense to go at all. "Enemy of the State,"
where have you been all my life? Okay, that's a bit much, but for the
hi-tech, common man against the self-anointed high-level government bureaucrat
genre of films this is about as good as it gets. I think most people who
see this movie have a half-inch indentation on their derrieres from sitting
on the edge of their seats for a couple of hours. It moves, it rocks,
it twists, it turns, it delights... it makes you wonder.... just how much
does the government know about us... as this review is posted to my web
page is the government downloading my entire computer (all letters, my
financial documents, my password protected files) in lest than five seconds,
all I have to say that if you have any sense I strongly suggested that
by order of the
United States Departments of Defense, Interior and Posterior.
TOP
Enlightenment
Guaranteed (7/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
What a delight! This German film (with English subtitles –do NOT let that
stop you) is so much fun. The story of two brothers, one who is about
to visit Japan for a once in a lifetime stay in a Zen Monastery, and his
brother (whose wife and family has just left him) who tags along bring
his baggage of pain and suffering. Without being stupid or silly this
film provides a narrative of the struggle to survive in a different culture
and the thrill of not only doing so, but the thrill of the journey in
trying to do so. This is one of those film I was a bit reluctant to see,
and I'm so glad that I did.
TOP
Entrapment (5/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
Formula, fun, and fetching. Super thief meets super thief, they are only
to have "professional relationship," yea right. Things are not always
what they seem, and that's fun (and formula). Catherine Zeta-Jones is
indeed fetching, and can even act a bit. It was not the inventiveness
of Enemy of the State. It is worth seeing, moves
along nicely and you don't seem to even mind the holes in the plot. The
Y2K tie-in is a nice twist, if not described in enough detail to provide
a real spark. A good movie for the theater, a even better movie for a
home rental.
TOP
Erin Brockovich
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.5
Julia Roberts (pretty much) is Erin Brockovich. Grittier, more "down"
to earth, and more pushed "up," this story of a common woman's fight against
the giant PG&E utility empire passes quickly and enjoyably. Sporting perhaps
the widest assortment of cleavage producing clothing seen recently on
screen Roberts leads us through this story of how a giant company sought
to lull a small community into a false sense of security by only partially
telling the truth. It's the whole truth, and the truth of cancers, cysts,
and miscarriages that the good Erin Brockovich seeks to expose. Add Albert
Finney as her lawyer boss who's not sure he can stand up against the PG&E
mega-litigation team and you have yourself a women with three kids, a
biker boyfriend/neighbor/babysitter and a whole lot of gumption to keep
her boss (Finney) on track.. Unlike other movies where she seemed to be
the character, this film seems to portray Julia Roberts playing the down-to-earth
actress, not being the down-to-earth actress. Nonetheless, at over 2 hours
plus the movie entertains and even provides some moments of both tender
reflection and all out laughter. Add an underdog you can't help but cheer
for and it's a pretty good movie.
TOP
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| F
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Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (8/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
"Motion Capture Actors" Rating: 4.0
A few disclaimers: One - I am not a huge fan of the animated phantasy
genre, and two - my very good friend Wes
Mann did a great deal of "motion capture" for this film – that's the
main reason we went to see it. The visuals are amazing, and this film
has generated a great deal of press about how life-like the characters
look, and has raised the question: Will such animation ever replace real
actors? Based on this film - while stunning - the answer is no. The movie
tells the tale of the future and the saving of the earth, what more do
you need to know. A lot more things exploding than I need I to see, and
the last thirty minutes seemed a bit confusing. If you like films like
this, or perhaps have kids (or yourself) who enjoy the video game (which
I've never seen), you might like this film.
TOP
Finding
Forrester (1/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Predictable as all get-out, and I loved it. An inspirational story, well
acted that drew me in. I cared abut the characters and enjoyed this discussions
about writing. The key issue of sacrifice and comfort of one's own lifestyle
for another plays a pivotally important role. A great movie to see on
video.
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Frequency (5/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
The plot line – son and father talking via ham radio over space and time,
with the father in the 1960s and the sun in the 1990s – is pretty cleaver.
The idea of the boy being able to talk with the father he never new, thanks
to some solar flares and a little mystical luck, is all well and good.
Where the film fails is that while the murder/ who-done-it plot moved
along nicely the emotional content lacks in terms of truly bringing the
viewer along for the ride. It's fun, it's entertaining, but it could have
been so much more. Bottom line, an above average plot idea, with below
average connection to the material. A good movie to watch on video.
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Galaxy Quest (12/27/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
It's a send-up of sci-fi conventions and the lives of sci-fi stars 20
years after their series ends. In this case the story of what would happen
in the crew of Star Trek (in this case called Galaxy Quest) was actually
taken by aliens to outer space to fight a war. This film works, it's cleaver,
fun and has some great gags, like the crew member who was killed during
the first ten minutes of his only appearance on Galaxy Quest - he spends
the film in fear that he'll be killed at any moment. The footage of "Questarians"
(like Star Trek's Trekers) at conventions is worth the price of admission.
TOP
(The) General’s Daughter (6/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
A watered down A Few Good Men. No “You can't handle the truth”s in this
one, a week later you’re only likely to have vague memories of this film.
At the moment you’re watching it’s engaging, but you leave and there’s
not much left behind. Twists and turns, will he or won’t he be a cop or
soldier (will he go after the criminal or will he protect the army)? It
moves along smartly for 80% of the fill, than seems to unravel a bit at
the end. Standard cloak and dagger stuff. The previews don’t hint at the
strong violent sexual content of this film. It is rated R for good reason,
and those who would be disturbed by such acts might be best not to see
this film. Not a bad video rental, but no need to rush out to this one.
TOP
(The) Green Mile
(12/13/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
The Green Mile has received good reviews, I know others will like it.
Yet, it just didn't do it for me. Though, I will admit, I find myself
liking it more as days go by. It's the story of a the staff of a particular
wing of a prison, The Green Mile, and the interaction they have with the
prisoners. These interaction are combination of hope and empathy, mixed
in with true cruelty. One guard and one prisoner are particularly heinous.
At three hours it moved along well enough, but it never really brought
me into the story. A final note: My recollection of the preview was that
is was portrayed as a film of hope and even has a tag line like "sometimes
miracles do happen." The tag line should have read, "Sometimes previews
and tag lines don't let you know how violent, evil, sadistic a film is
or anything about three dramatic, drawn out electrocution execution scenes."
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Heartbreakers
(3/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
Just like the previews. Fun, shallow, funny and lots of Gene Hackman vamping
as the old man, and Jennifer Love Hewitt and Sigourney Weaver doing there
best as the mother and daughter con artist team. This movie deserved some
twists and turns to keep us guessing, and the ending could have been so
much more. If you have a Jennifer Love Hewitt thing you'll get your money's
worth. Otherwise wait for it on video.
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Heist (11/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
The latest David Memet film. I love David Mamet, but not this film. Gene
Hackman is good, parts of the plot have the Mamet touch for incredible
dialogue, but the film stumbles and trips and falls during the last twenty
minutes, making this hard to recommend. Rebecca Pidgeon, who was wonderful
in Mamet's (her husband's) State and Main is fun to watch here, and as
sultry as I've seen her, but even she can't save this film.
TOP
High
Fidelity (4/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
I thought it might be good, but I had NO!!! idea it would that good. This
story of a used record store owner (John Cusack) is about as much fun
as I can imagine a script could be. From start to finish the movie moves
along in a way that leaves both satisfied and wanting more. Cusack's tale
of his top five most pain relationship break-ups takes us through his
life in such a way as to leave you both laughing about and pondering life.
The script is smart, imaginative, cleaver and brings together characters
from inside and outside the record shop to keep us entertained throughout.
Life a dream, after the movie I awoke to discover that I couldn't really
visit Championship Vinyl. To spend an afternoon in this store would be...
an experience. I know everyone won't love this movie as much as I did,
but for my movie dollar this is THE movie to see right now. You'll laugh
in the moment, and think about the content for some time to come. I'll
be seeing it again soon.
TOP
(The) Hurricane
(1/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
The story of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter comes to life on the screen with
Denzel Washington taking on the title role. It doesn't try to answer all
the questions, it just tries to tell the story. It doesn't lay out each
observation as most films do, decidedly refreshing. You leave wondering
so many things: Who could one person endure such injustice? How could
others foist such injustice on another knowingly? Viewed best after setting
aside the media hype and taking this in as much as a story as reality.
Clearly told in a style that lends itself to being clearly followed.
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Holy Smoke (2/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Engaging, thought provoking, subversively humorous, wonderfully exotic,
and even erotic at times. Holy Smoke takes us behind the scenes as an
American "exiter" (cult deprogammer) travels to Australia to "save: a
young women who's been fooled to come come home from India with lies of
a dying father. In retrospect there is much to like about the movie (the
cinematography, dialogue and acting), and little to like about most of
the characters (stupid, lazy, shallow, conceited). Yet, the film work
on many levels and that fact that it continues to float about my mind
is proof of this. The exiter (Harvey Keitel) vs. cult fanatic (Kate Winslet)
main story line never loses its edge, and we easily buy-in to what is
happening here. Add the fact that it's not your usually movie fare and
this is one is well worth seeing.
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(The) Insider (November
5, 1999)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Solid, compelling, anger provoking, heart breaking. The Insider tells
a story that sickens me, of creed, of corporate harassment of the worst
kind, of one man believing in what he had to say. I question if I would
have anywhere near the strength of tobacco whistle blower Jeffrey Wigand
(Russell Crowe) to stand up to the tobacco industry. While he loses his
wife, his home, his ability to make a living -- he inspires us each in
some way to speak the truth more often. Nothing huge car chases, no one
is naked, just a solid story, filmed with a various eye for realism. Add
the point in history at which 60 Minutes turns the corner from true journalism
to cover-your-ass corporate decision making and you have a must see movie.
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K-Pax (10/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.0
Kevin Spacey redeemed himself a bit after the disappointing Pay It Forward,
but not enough to make this movie click. Others have loved it, I enjoyed
parts, but found this "Is he man, or is he spaceman?" film flat in too
many places.
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Keeping
the Faith (4/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
What can I say? It works. It delights. It was absolutely funny. The tale
of a priest and rabbi who are both in love – or fall back in love – with
their junior high tomboy pal, who they haven't seen in 20 years. The story
follows all three characters as they live their lives and grapple with
decisions about the future and how this future will effect each other.
This movie defines the "date movie" genre, and for good reason, it's fun,
it makes you want to hold hands, and you leave with a smile on your face.
I say forget things blowing up for a while and enjoy this romantic comedy.
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(The) Kid (7/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
This movie defines the prefect video rental. Easy to take, fun to watch,
and a smart story about a kid who meets himself as an adult (it's a film,
what can I say), and what they learn from each other. Just a delight and
worth a look, rated PG, so why not see it with a kid.
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The
Legend of Bagger Vance (11/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.5
They could have done so much more with this film. This golfing fable had
all the hope on an unwrapped present, only one thing. When unwrapped the
promise was worth more than what was delivered. Worthy of three Shafe's,
and I would recommend it, it just could have ben so much more.
TOP
Life As a
House (10/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Those who don't like sentimental films will likely not enjoy this Kevin
Klein vehicle of a man who uses the rebuilding of his house as a metaphor
for rebuilding his life and his relationship with his son. I enjoyed it,
and bought the premise. Fun neighbors add to the film.
TOP
Life is Beautiful
(12/19/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
The saddest part of this movie is that people will be put off by sub-titles,
and the notion of a concentration camp comedy. That is so wrong! Not that
part about it having sub-titles, it does (big deal). The wrong part is
that a movie where people use life, love of life and heart-felt, heart-given
humor and charm as a salve on an unbearable wound, could be so misunderstood.
One of the finest films I've seen in years and all the while romantic,
engaging, provocative, and understandable. Haven't you seen enough things
exploded for one movie season. This movie will hold up for years to come.
See it!
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Little Voice (2/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
I'll be honest, I was disappointed. I knew this movie was about a painfully
shy young women who only seemed to be able to find self expression through
singing in the remarkable styles of famous singers (Billie Holiday, Judy
Garland, Marilyn Monroe ). But while the film was full of "some real characters,"
most of them (save two) are unattractive. They are not people I would
want to spend time with. The story of L.V. (Little Voice) being discovered
by a less than honest talent agent and this emotional pain she suffers
at the hands of her mother (who delivers some of the wittier, if acerbic,
lines in the movie) just didn't seem to have the emotional quality I thought
this film would have. Yes, it is amazing that Jane Horrocks (Little Voice)
is in fact the voice of all the singers she portrays, but it takes more
than this amazing feat to make this movie fly. For me it did get off the
ground, but it just never really soared.
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Man in the Moon (12/26/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.5
It plays like a movie, but in retrospect all it seems to be is a
string of Andy Kaufman performances. It misses the mark by forgetting
to tell us about what Andy Kaufman's life was like outside of his performing.
You get the idea that Andy might not have been that much fun to be around,
and I was left wondering how intentional it was that this film doesn't
explore that side of Kaufman. Jim Carey IS Kaufman, for most of the film
you forget that you are seeing an actor play Kaufman. But that's not enough
to carry this film. I was bored for much of it and left wanting to got
see a real movie, this didn't meet expectations and viewers would be better
off waiting for the video.
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(The) Mask of Zorro (8/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
You know the story, the man behind the mask saves the day. Moved along,
kept me engaged, villains I could hate. A wonderful winter video at home.
Women love Antonio Banderas in this one.
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(The) Matrix (4/11/99)
NEGATIVE SHAFE 
Yes, I give it a Negative Shafe, while at the same time rating it a 4.0
on what they were trying to accomplish scale. I assume they were trying
to make a vile, loud, violent, formula-ridden, gore in-your-face, no redeeming
social context movie. If so, they succeed. Had I known then (before I
saw the movie) what I know now (after seeing the movie) I would never
have gone. I would have left in the middle, except for the fact the soundtrack
was so loud I couldn't communicate with my buddy, Lee Hinde (of HD
Industries) to tell him I wanted to leave. (I later learned he wanted
to leave also.) The premise has promise, but then again so do large warm
smoldering cow patties. They can be food for plants (if properly treated),
or just large stinking heaps of smelly (well you know). This was simply
a big pile of the later. On a editorial note: If I were King (which I
am willing to be by the way), I would throw parents who bring their small
children to movies like this in jail for at least three months. You need
a licence to go fishing, to bad you don't need a license to be a parent.
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(The) Mexican (3/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.5
Julia (Roberts) smiles her smile , Brad (Pitt) looks 15 younger than his
38 years. The gun is claimed, then lost, then claimed, then lost, then
claimed again I think. Interesting that Julia and Brad spend the majority
of the film apart, doing separate things in separate countries, but that's
okay. Like Chinese food, I enjoyed it, and few hours later couldn't quite
remember why I wanted to see another movie. Never compelling, but pulls
you along none the same. I guess I'd say two and three-forth Shafe's,
but not having a three-forths image I'll go with three.
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Midsummer Night's Dream (5/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.5
Of merriment and jester true, this movie sure for you to view. Stars throughout
this tale sure, the story of Bill's it does endure. Listen hard if you
must, and will thou sure to bust a gut. It springs back forth, for now
and then, and comes around to now again. Well done says he who could not
read it, the actors breath of life does bring, to this tale a life, a
dream. The set design is bold and strong, and Kevin Klein can do no wrong.
Oh sure there are more quick of knowing, but this ones leaves your mind
still growing. So scurry now, and make the time, the tempo the meter is
divine.
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Mighty Joe Young (12/27/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
With beer you need pretzels. With summer you need camping. With chives
you need Cream Soda (okay maybe that one doesn't work.) With Mighty Joe
Young you need to have at least one person under twelve with you. That's
what made the movie work for me. A huge ape, with a huge heart, Charlize
Theron (the first of four new movies by this January 1999 Vanity Fair
cover girl), and some fantastic scenery. Okay it has a few "cheats" in
it, but what movie doesn't, okay many don't -- that's not my point. Go
with a child, that makes this mediocre movie fun, fun, fun!
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Miss Congeniality (12/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.5
Saw it the afternoon my Christmas vacation started, I was in a good mood
and had fun with this movie. Nothing special, funny in places, some light-weight
characters, a nice video rental. But I wouldn't get a pen and paper and
start writing home about this film.
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Mememto (on video)
(11/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
Not sure why it took me so long to see this film, but it first-rate story
telling. Yes, the story is told backwards, but I found I could follow
it and was surprised by just how good this film was. A must see.
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Monsters Inc. (11/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
It was fun, it was good, it was not great. Cut and adorable, yes. But,
without the absolute delight of Toy Story. Worth a few laughs, but not
as good as I thought it might be. In the viewer is over five I'd suggest
Shrek.
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Moulin Rouge
(6/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
Absolutely fantastic! Creative from the first frame to the last image
on the screen (for which maybe 5% of the people stayed). Alive, vibrant,
and simply wonderful to experience. A story well told, with music, costume,
sets and song expertly done. The renditions of Elton John's Your Song
and Sting's Roxanne will not soon be for forgotten, a film I'm
likely to see again and a film if viewed on a TV screen would suffer greatly.
Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor are engaging and their strong individual
performances make then a perfect movie couple. Finally, it was personally
interesting for me to discover, after seeing the film, that director Baz
Luhrmann also directed the (1996) Romeo + Juliet, a film (though seen
on a TV screen) which was so powerful, creative and energizing it left
me literally shaking.
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Never Been Kissed
(4/10/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
A coming of teenager coming-of-age story with a twist, it was good, real
good. I was hoping for passable, and I received a "fine entertainment
value." To use one of the hallmarks of a good film that Siskel (R.I.P.)
and Ebert often talk about, I cared about the characters. This film has
characters galore, from the nerds, to the newspaper editor and publisher,
from the guy in the sound/video van (shades of The Truman Show and EDTv),
to the school teachers. Snappy writing, amusing situations, and a variety
of interesting personalities made this a truly fun film to see. The nerds
have hearts, brain, as you'll learn by the end of the film looks. Dreams
are realized by many folks on a variety of levels. And, there are many
good lessons about facing fears, having courage, and being true to yourself.
This film is not just for teens. Take a break from the tear-jerker or
high-tech thriller of the week and sit-back relax and enjoy some fun.
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Notting Hill (6/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
There is a good chance that when the next edition of Webster's dictionary
comes out there will be a definition that reads: Without flaw; completely
enjoyable; quintessential romantic comedy; sharply defined characters
flawed in quirky and delightful ways; pure fun entertainment. And just
before this definition will be the words: Notting Hill (movie 1999). First
frame to last, each turn, twist and scene left me wanting more. Deliciously
romantic, and written with such a sharp eye to what would both engage
and amuse. Looking a bit deeper into the soul of this film are glimpses
of the lives Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant have both lead. It has been
a long time (Good Will Hunting and As Good As It Gets) since I have enjoyed
a movie as much. Sit back, relax, relish and enjoy the lives of two strangers
who come together on Notting Hill.
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Novocaine (11/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 1.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.0
Steve Martin is good, Laura Dern is great and the movie stinks. A
frustrating romp with a dentist who consciously takes the wrong turn at
every opportunity. Frustrating to watch, not particularly funny, gruesome
in places and fairly boring. I was expecting much more.
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O Brother Where For Art Thou
(1/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.0
Everyone else loved it, I found it overdone and dragging in places.
To get the most out of it find and read an outline of Homer's the Odyssey
before seeing this firm, as it is based on this famous fable. George Clooney
sings away in the film, that was fun to watch. But, the piecemeal styling
of the firm left we wondering what all the excitement was about.
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Office Space (2/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.5
Okay, so maybe you haven't heard of this one. In fact you might think
the actual title is Work Sucks since in many of the ads this slogan is
larger than the film's title. From Mike Judge, the creator of Beavis and
Butthead, comes this quick and in many ways hatingly affectionate look
at life inside the walls of cubical intense building. Having worked, until
last year, in a cubical #702 (I kid you not) and having survived a six
years stint in said cubical I could relate to this film. The story moves
along well enough, and I suspect with a theater full of people at 8:00
p.m. on Friday night, after a hard week's worth of work, this film would
have been even better, funnier. The drill is predictable, guy hates work,
guy undergoes life changing experience (in this case hypnosis), guy changes
for what would seem to be the worse (by some), and then (of course) succeeds.
Worth a peek, especially if your work sucks. A fun video rental with a
bunch of folks from the office.
Disclaimer and first chance to drop a "Hollywood" name in a review:
The hypnotist in this movie was played my Michael McShane, okay I was
introduced to Michael by my Hollywood pal Wes Mann, and yea I've sat next
to Michael at a movie (the avant-garde film Funny Bones with Jerry Lewis,
he loved it, I hated it), okay we went out for dinner in a trendy little
Mexican restaurant in the Los Feliz part of L.A. But, that did not effect
my review, I'm above all that.....
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Out of Sight (6/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
New on video, another Elmore Leonard classic. Didn't get too much press,
should of. Engaging, confusing (in a good way), dialogue that makes you
want to listen. On video a sure winner. Don't get me wrong, it's no Get
Shorty, but it's good. Rent it and enjoy.
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Pay It Forward (10/00)
NEGATIVE SHAFE
It has been so long since I looked forward to a firm so much. One
of the most disappointing movie experiences in a long time. What happened
to this film? The life and charm were sucked right out of it. A major
film disappointment of 2000. For all its sins a Negative Shafe must be
awarded.
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Patch Adams (12/25/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
It's preachy. You got a problem with that? I don't. It preaches what I
like, people who care about others, are willing to take changes, make
me laugh, and most all understand that in serving others they are helping
themselves. Robin Williams stars as the Doc who walks his talk. It's miles
from ER, and that's a good place to be. Will it work on video? You bet.
Should you wait? Your call. If you want a fun night, good laughs, and
few touching moments -- go now. If you want to keep one in the bank for
sure thing when you can't take the bube-tube any more, that's cool too.
Either way it's worth seeing.
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Princess
Diaries (8/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
I loved it! Delightful, funny, and well acted. Just what you'd think of
a Disney movie would be, and as rated G film I thought it pushed the limits.
While a film for the entire family a few mild scenes surprised me for
such a rating. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this tale of a highschool
girl who discovers she is a princess of a European country and must decide
what to do about accepting the responsibility. At the same time we have
the Pygmalion/My Fair Lady issue of the girl being a bit of bumbler. I
suggest this fun film for adults as well as kids.
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Pushing Tin (on
video 12/19/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
How could I have missed this on the big screen. Start to finish amazingly
entertaining, fun to watch and outrageously intense. Who could have thought
two air traffic controllers could have so much ... stuff going on in their
lives. Sure it's full of testosterone, but as I recall nothing blows up
and there are only a few punches thrown. The dialogue, especially the
supper fast talking controllers, is a delight to take in. Action, romance,
technology, good looking guys and gals, this film has it all. Just rent
it, pop it in the video and buckle up for some high flying fun.
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Raising Ned Devine (12/31/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Look let's face it. If you abhor small charm, far away places and humor
(or should I say humour) and movies with more than a dollop of "cheek"
-- go rent Twister, this movie isn't for you. Now, if yer lucky enough
to have a wee bit of the charm blessin' ya, this is a keeper. Beautifully
filmed on the Isle of Wight, and with a glorious nude scene of a skinny
old man, what have you got to lose. Through caution to the wind, do something
different, bring yourself some luck. Who knows you just might win the
lottery. Finally, a special note. There's an important scene towards the
very end (don't worry I'm not giving anything away), in the bar, the women
who has the child, and one of the chief-schemers sit and talk on a bar
bench. Their conversations explains a great deal. Okay, I didn't get,
neither did Sheri -- we had to ask Kurt and Margaret. But now we understand,
if you see the movie and no one gets what they're explaining, email
me and I'll explain.
TOP
Rat Race (8/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 0.5
Ho humm, another farce. It could have been better, could have had wit
and cutting edge of style, it doesn't. Chalk one up to just what you would
expect -- zany, mad cap humor. A bunch of folks are rushing to claim the
$2 million in money from the bus locker. I'd take a pass if I were you.
TOP
Reindeer Games
(2/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 0.5
A "guilty pleasure" movie - bad guys, some nudity, cussing, and a
big heist. You know going in, at least I did, that someone gets out of
jail, and the con's girlfriend's brother wants the con to help commit
a crime. The amount of violence is a given (if overdone). Like many films
of this type there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing,
and lots of things go boom. As far as cops and robbers, and films like
this that are intelligent in some small way, this one fall shorts. Actually
I didn't feel all that guilty, and it wasn't all that pleasurable. Wait
for video.
TOP
Return to Me (4/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.5
His wife dies, her heart is given to another young women. He meets this
women (not knowing she lives due to his wife's heart), they date, they
make a movie that was just to contrived for me. Others have really liked,
I really so-so'ed it. What Keeping the Faith
has, this movie lacks. The best part isn't our two leads, but rather the
background characters of her family – and that just isn't right. A maybe
on video.
TOP
Runaway Bride (7/30/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.5
Julia Roberts is cute, Richard Gere is handsome, the script is perky,
the plot is predictable, the sky is blue, the jokes are both funny and
un-memorable, the audience loved it. Guess I could stop right there. But
I won’t. Touching story of love, or silly comedy with over-written characters,
it just wasn’t sure what it wanted to be. If you are looking for harmless
fun, and a smile or two, you won’t be disappointed. If you haven’t seen
Notting Hill ( a much, much better movie) I’d see
that first. If you do go see the Runaway Bride, and you find your mind
wandering see how many “piece” of other romantic comedies you can spot
in this film. I’ll give you a hint, one from Pretty Woman appears when
Robert’s character drops in on high school football practice and her maybe-
soon-to-be husband/coach has the boys “give my princess a ride on her
chariot.”
TOP
Rushmore (2/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
I don't have much time to write this review of Rushmore because I'm off
in a bit to see the movie Rushmore. Hold the presses! Is this a sign of
some type of less than ethical movie review process being allowed on the
Shafe movie web site? You bet it's not. How can that be? Simple, I'm off
to see Rushmore for the second time in three days. That's how good it
was. Some will call it quirky. Some will ask where the old Bill Murray
is. Some won't get it, at least that's my guess. But this I can tell you
-- with all the ho-hum, hum-drum movies out there this is like a breathe
of fresh air on a Sacramento to Chicago flight on one of these little
six seats across jets. This movie sparkles, amazes, invents, and holds
completely true to itself during the entire 92 minutes of the film. Rushmore
is the private boys high school where Murray and new comer Jason Schwartzman
, playing a nerdy but confident student, both compete for the same one
true love. It's not the plot that delights. It's the language, the script,
the way the movie is put together. Bold, different, fully-followable,
this one is worth seeing now.
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(The) Score (7/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
It twists and turns heading you in one direction, and not always handing
you a U-Turn where you might expect it. Fun to watch Norton and DeNiro
tangle in a well thought out heist caper. Good while you're there and
forgettable when you leave. Marlin Brando provides some interesting visuals
as the man who knows too much. Edward Norton, doing a bit of his character
from Primal Fear (1966), is the most engaging character and shows the
most complexity. This is no Hot Rock, but is tons better than 3000
Miles to Graceland.
TOP
Serendipity
(10/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Cute, fun, smart. You root for this couple to get together the entire
way through the film and John Cussack and Kate Beckinsale are a delight
to watch. Jeremy Piven as Cussack's best bud has some screen stealing
scenes that are a riot. Interesting to note that Piven and Cussack once
shared an apartment. In any event, add in a little Eugene "Jim's Dad"
Levy and you have a very fun and funny film.
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Shakespeare in Love (12/29/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
The folks who run the Rio Theater in Santa Cruz, CA need to find out where
the thermostat is in that theater and turn it up -- way up, but even with
my coat zipped to the top, and gloves on, this movie was pure delight.
Sharp, witty (really witty, not stupid witty, sarcastic witty, or pompous
witty), and a breath of fresh air to inhale. It moves, it glides, it struts
with a pleasure, making you think that you could be watching the genuine
Shakespeare on the screen. See it now on the big screen, not because it's
screen hungry like Titanic, but because it is even more full of life this
way. Or should I say: Grand pallet of silver screen does harken thee to
view this day, for the 'morrow brings a landscape much to small and square
to understand the words of old I wish to speak.
TOP
Shrek (6/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Fun, intelligent, well done and enough humor for children and adults alike
to hold the interest of both. Delightfully creative animation and a story
with a moral compass that points to true north. Loveable characters worth
rooting for and some belly laughs along the way.
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Simon Birch (9/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
The movie version of John Irving's "A Prayer for Owen Meany." I finished
this book, with tears streaming down my face, on Monkey Forest Road at
the Happy Inn in Bali, Indonesia. The book would rate as one of my all-time
top 10 favorites. The movie works admirably at conveying the wisdom, grace,
and beauty of Simon Birch (Owen Meany). Worth seeing, touching, who knows
you might end up questioning your own place in God's great plan.
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Shallow Hal
(11/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
Just what you would expect, not much more or less. Fun, and if you open
your mind and heart it poses some difficult questions about how we see
ach other. Not a must see at the movies, but definitely worth a video
rental.
TOP
Slums of Beverly Hills (9/98)
NEGATIVE SHAFE
Boring, unfocused, unmoving, uninteresting. Simply, well, un! Thanks Centruy
for giving me a credit for a future movie when I walked out. Well, at
least they made a few coins on my popcorn purchase. This movie focuses
on an ever moving family living just inside the city limits of Beverly
Hills. Then you have a bouquet of negative relationships between just
about every member of the family, and every person they come in contact
with -- the bouquet stinks. It's just that the relationships are so flat
as not to be interesting. Save your mind, save your time, skip this one.
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Snake Eyes (9/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
Hey Nick (olas Cage), good to see you again. And Gary Sinese has his legs
back. Life is good. The bad cop Nick, seemingly always on the take, can
take it no more when his best bud gets involved with a government backed
assassination of an innocent citizen trying to do her part to alert the
Secretary of Defense that a certain bomber's results are not what they
seem. A bit shorter than the last sentence, the movie makes you hate the
government and care a bit about Cage's character. A small set production
taking place taking place within the confines of a boxing auditorium you
are easily whisked away inside this story. Moves quick, entertains, forgotten
a few hours later. Perfect for video.
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Someone
Like You (4/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.5
I want to see this movie. I don't want to see this movie. Oh, I hear it's
cute, oh it's kinda stupid. – mixed reviews, that's what I heard before
seeing this movie. Me.... well, I give it a mixed review. Very much a
forgettable movie, while at the same time fun to watch. A perfect video
rental, and certainly not offensive in any way (to me at least). Fun,
cleaver at times, immediately forgettable, a nice way to spend a few hours.
Is that mixed enough for someone like you?
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Spy Games (11/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Loved it! A thinking man's (woman's) action pix. Lots of head stuff, and
not just a lot of stuff blowing up. Really enjoyed the predicament that
Redford's character was in and how he got out of it. Well thought out
and some great "bad guys" who work for the CIA. You love to hate them.
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Austin Powers: (The) Spy Who Shagged Me (6/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
I agreed, Lee agreed, Jimbo agreed, Maria agreed (I’m not sure where Matt
went) that the new Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me is even better
then the first. Doesn’t happen often with sequels but, they pulled it
off this time. Still as crude, still with titillating women sidekick (a
very easy on the eyes Heather “Roller Girl from Boogie Nights” Graham),
and two new characters (Minnie Me and Fat Bastard) to join the old group
of Austin, Dr. Evil, Number Two, Scott Evil and company. If you like this
kinda of movie, you’ll love The Spy Who Shagged Me. True to form, tasteless
where it should be, and fun throughout. Judging from the opening night
crown I’d same I’m not alone in my Shagadelic review of this summer comedy.
Enjoy.
Star Trek: Insurrection (12/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 1.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 1.0
I really wanted to like it, really I did. I swear I showed up with my
a whole bag full of I'm going to like this movie. The bag wasn't big enough,
what can I tell you. Predictable, not engaging, seemed like they were
just going through the motions. You'd think with all the people out there
with ideas for these movies they's have something better. If you believe
in Star Trek then you must see it (you have no choice), otherwise wait
for the next one.
TOP
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (5/99)
NEGATIVE SHAFE
I was in a fine mood, having a spent a positive afternoon working with
a community group. I arrived at the theater early and found plenty of
seats. No little kids kicked my seat from behind, no adults kept talking
during the film. So, all I can assume is that reason I thought Star Wars:
The Phantom Menace was so incredible bad was that it is. I'm writing this
review a few days after seeing the film, I wanted to be sure that I wasn't
simply another person experiencing backlash to a case of over-hype. I
feel quite confident I'm not, you could even say that the Force is with
me. I will simply tell you this: Most the actors can't act, it's as if
they're showing up and simply speaking lines, if this is meant to show
somber states of mind they aren't. I dare anyone who has not seen the
original trilogy over 50 times to explain the plot to me, it's convoluted,
poorly developed and uninspired. Jar-Jar Bing (or whatever his name is)
is unintelligible, you had to struggle to understand most of what he has
to say, and they have saying a lot. Simply put the film is uncreative,
uninspiring, slow, formula driven (as in baby formula that is very uninteresting
and not that appealing to anyone over one year old). For a day or so I
thought I'd give this film one Shafe, but the fact of the matter is that
it doesn't deserve it. I know that the negative Shafe is only for movies
I left before they were over, but since I thought of leaving at least
ten times during this film a negative Shafe it is. As Yoda might say:
Coming to this movie without hopes or not, you are. Disappointed, you
will be.
TOP
State and Main
(1/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Fantastic, I loved this film from the moment it started to the last. Since
many of you will not have heard of this film, quoting from the Internet
Movie Database I'll share, "A movie crew invades a small town whose
residents are all too ready to give up their values for showbiz glitz."
This description belies the wonderful writing and direction of David Mamet.
Rebecca Pidgeon (Mamet's real life wife) and Philip Seymour Hoffman combine
to give us a wonderful new couple, I can't recall when I wanted two characters
to kiss more. See this film, you'll love it.
TOP
(The) Straight Story (12/27/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
This is not your ordinary film, which is just one of the aspects
of The Straight Story that makes it so remarkable. It doesn't rush, it
tells a story so clearly that you wonder why the people being filmed didn't
notice the cameras. They seem so real, wasn't it strange to have a film
crew near by? As you may know, this is the story of elderly Alvin Straight
who decides to go visit his estranged brother who has had a stroke. Only
thing is that Alvin can no longer drive, so the 350 mile journey takes
over five weeks as he rides a lawn mower tractor at something like two
to three miles an hour, you could literally walk faster. But Alvin has
bad hips and can't walk. The people Alvin meets on the way are what the
story is really all about. And, for me the fact that typical Hollywood
conventions were not used made this film all the more enjoyable. This
film is not to be missed.
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Tailor of
Panama (4/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
To be quite honest I thought it would be a fair bit better given all the
positive reviews. Don't get me wrong, it's an okay film. The twists of
what is the truth, who is fooling who, and who is fooling themselves,
is all very cleaver. I think part of the problem is that "Hollywood" tends
to cast the wrong person for certain roles. You take Pierce Brosnan, looking
all James Bond-is, dressed in that dapper way of the rich, yet ask us
to think of him as spy cad and it's not that easy to do. Nothing particularly
ingenious about this film and doesn't hold a candle to films like of Hunt
for Red October or the Spy Who Came in From the Cold.
TOP
Tao of Steve
(8/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
An art house film, that we saw in an art house. The plot, "Underachieving,
overweight kindergarten teacher Dex finds a woman who forces him to reexamine
his Zen-like system of seduction." - as quoted from Internet
Movie Database gives a glimpse but not the entire picture of this
film. Unlike the over-produced main stream film this is a film that was
actually crafted. And, despite the plot described above, it is definitely
accessible to most movie goers. I found it very enjoyable.
TOP
That's the
Way This Town Works (3/01) (On video)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 5.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 5.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 5.0
The only film ever rated five Shafe's. Put a leash on life and take it
out, strutting, for a walk, not just any walk but a wonderful three day
triumphant journey to La$ Vega$. The triumph here is not one of monetary
gains, but rather the story of three men and their ability to gulp from
the very barrow of life's greatest mystery: will three guys who shared
a hotel room with two beds, visited the buffet twice, ate at Quark's Bar,
located and enjoyed (number not specified) Krispy Kreme doughnuts, experience
the courage to drink four beers found in the hallway of the Mandalay Bay
Hotel and Casino. That's the Way This Town Works, while some would argue
short at twenty-three minutes and currently available only on video for
$500 per copy (email
for video order form), is the bravura performance of first time chief
cinematographer, editor, and produced Dennis "Professor' McKee. McKee
also stars in this heart-warming, exciting, mesmerizing tale along with
Wes "Hollywood" Mann, and Gregory "Mr. Vega$" Shaffer. Uncredited are
several moving performances by a variety of cab drivers (one who has walked
- literally - around the world), bellmen, and other Vega$ employees, like
those who work at Shark Reef. A microcosm of life this film follows the
birth, adolescents, maturing and ultimately the end of this three day
trip. Like all great films it leaves us wanting more. A special note about
the editing of this magical firm. All editing was performed in a Macintosh
3000E, Ultra-Glide, Mach IV computer using, Flow and Go software, and
a pre-port Phalmgartner Relay for transverse video output to LGSM (Linear
Gray Strip Medium). The results are nothing short of amazing and will
leave audiences rolling in the isles (or in front of their couches), and
later pulling off the side of the road to ponder the ordinary meaning
of life, as raised by this extraordinary film. A must see, arrange
for personal screening -- in Los Angeles, Oakland or Sacramento --
hosted by one of the film's stars, simply by proving dinner and drinks.
TOP
There's Something About Mary (7/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Note the 4.0 "What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating, this movie will
offend some, but for those who want to laugh until there side splits (and
for days after the movie), this one's for you! My buddy Jimbo didn't think
it would be worth $7, so I paid with the agreement that if at any time
in the film he felt he got his money's worth he would repay me. Less than
a hour into the film I had my money back, heck he would have paid more
if I let him. You've heard the hype. it's all true. This one separates
the truly happy, adjusted adults from the stick-in-the-muds.
TOP
3000 Miles to Graceland (2/01)
NEGATIVE SHAFE
A total waste of time. Things explode, the plot goes nowhere, and I didn't
care about any of the characters. A La$ Vega$ heist film could be so much
more. Costner and Russell you let me know. Why I didn't walk out I'll
never know.
TOP
Toy Story 2 (12/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Better than the first. Jokes that will delight both children and adults
and just plane good fun. Toy Story 2 is a more engaging story, of heroics
and caring, of investing in a relationship for the joy it brings at the
moment even if it doesn't last forever. The animation, which should be
seen on the big screen, amazes me still. The ability to move from close-up
to miles away in animated seconds is wonderful, and you'll leave feeling
you've seen a movie that had something to say to everyone.
TOP
Traffic (1/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
A real "film" with smart editing, engaging characters, and story that
pulls you right along without you even knowing it. Many of the flaws in
our "war on drugs" become obvious without being hit over the head with
it. Well crafted and worth high Oscar consideration.
TOP
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Waking Life
(11/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
Folks may not understand it, they may wonder just what the point is of
this film -- that is animation painted over real film -- is. That's the
point, this film is a meditation, and does a fine job on taking us on
a journey most films don't dare to address: the meaning of life. Not soon
forgotten, it is well worth the investment of your time.
TOP
What Planet Are You From (2/00)
NEGATIVE SHAFE
I really feel that every person who reads this review -- and had thought
about going to this movie, and has now changed their minds – owns me a
dollar. I had such high hopes, I was in such a good mood, and this movie
is one of the worst I have seen in a long time. I lacks imagination, it
is certainly not funny, and despite a first-rate cast, is a bore through
and through. Want a funny movie about aliens coming to Earth, then rent
Earth Girls Are Easy. I think Gary Shandling's work on Larry Sanders was
nothing short of brilliant, the results of this film would land him with
a dunce cap. Save your money, save your time.
TOP
What Women
Want (12/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.5
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 2.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 0.5
Oh so funny.... Mel Gibson is so cute... please!!! I was bored, it wasn't
that funny, give me a break. A second tier comedy with only a few of the
right moves. Watch on video if you must, but there's much better out there.
TOP
(The) Whole Nine
Yards (2/00)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
At the movies I give this a solid three Shafe's, on video maybe even four.
In what could be a slapstick, and even stupid movie the actors (mainly
Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry) pull off a delightful comedy. I tried
explaining the plot to someone after seeing the movie, sounds very complex
– a dentist living next door to a hit man, a wife who wants the dentist
killed, the dentist assistant who is really a rookie hitwomen. But, the
movie rolls out so effortlessly, keeping us engaged, amused and wondering
just what will happen next, that you smile from first frame to last. I
saw the movie in a pretty full theater and there were times of true uproarious
laughter. If you're look for fun, laughs, and want to see the mob portrayed
in a humorous light, then this is the film for you.
TOP
Wild Wild West (7/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 1.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 0.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 0.5
I heard it was bad, I read it was bad, I should have know it was bad.
It was bad. Flat, boring, unimaginative in trying to be imaginative. What
was it like for Will Smith and Kevin Kline to make such a dull picture.
I wasn’t expecting, great, I was hoping for good, and got just plain lousy.
Not worth the big screen, not worth a video rental. A sleep walk of a
script that simply doesn’t deliver, adventure, humor or fun.
TOP
Wonder Boys
(Fall 2000)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.5
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.5
A fine movie. The media buzz on this movie was non-existent and despite
an unheard of re-release of such a movie, it was still missed by many.
Some call this Michael Douglas' best movie, and I'm nor sure about that,
but I am sure this a fine dramatic effort and well worth seeing. The interplay
of Douglas with Robert Downey Jr., and the innocent Toby Maguire is a
delight watch. Great on the bid screen and well worth a watch on video
is you missed it.
TOP
The World is Not Enough (12/99)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
“What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 3.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
Bond. James Bond. Back, and better than the last few times. Why say more.
Everyone knows that things will blow up. Everyone knows that there will
be beautiful women, almost, but never entirely, naked. This one seems
to have a bit more spark and is more likeable. But, it's still James Bond.
You either like him or you don't.
TOP
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You Can
Count On Me (3/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 4.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 4.0
Dialogue. Pure, simple, real, forceful, empty, full, everyday, emotional....
dialogue. A movie of pure thought, a story told of a sister and brother.
Their relationship, their challenges and how they deal with life. Wonderfully
told, simply shared, as small movie with a few big name stars (Laura Linney
and Matthew Broderick), and wonderful Mark Ruffalo as the brother. Written
and directed by Ken Lonergan who also makes a few brief appearances as
the minister counseling Samantha (Laura Linney). If only all movies could
be this good, simply brilliant.
TOP
You've Got Mail (12/18/98)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 2.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 1.5
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 2.0
I'm supposed to think they are both so cute, they are so adorable. They
are, doesn't mean the movies works, at least not for me. I gotta care
more and I didn't. If you're looking for When Harry Met Sally then stop
by the video store and rent When Harry Met Sally. Too many other good
movies to waste time on this one right now. But as Dennis Miller says,
then again I could be wrong.
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Zoolander (9/01)
"At the Moment I Walked Out of the Theater" Rating: 3.0
"What It Was Trying To Accomplish" Rating: 4.0
"Five Years From Now" Rating: 3.0
Ya either get or ya don't or, maybe, more accurately, you either like
it or you don't. I liked it, thought the campiness worked and love the
battle of the models in the walk-off. Cleaver and fun, definitely worth
a rent on video if you missed it at the movies.
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0.0 Terrible, stay at home, save your money for a
root canal 