Pia's Reviews

This series could only be done by the Brits! It ought to be renamed "In the epicentre of darkness", rather than "Edge of darkness"!! Although quite suspenseful, it nevertheless is sombre, "Heathcliffish" and devastatingly defeatist in its plot! Great to watch on a dreary winter's day, rugged up on the lounge, hot chocolate(s) in hand...

The fact that we are dealing with a true story, told by live witnesses makes this a powerful account of the power and life generating transformation that is found in Christ inspired and Spirit breathed forgiveness! It is unmistakably supernatural because we have too many stories of revenge to be counted; which proves that the natural response in people is one of revenge, when a loved one is killed. The outcome of the "higher way" is truly extraordinary! It should not surprise those who try to walk this walk for it is replicated in countless lives who have chosen that better path, with His help! Inspirational and life transforming viewing.

Thank God for Rick Stein and his tireless investigation into this cover-up. Some very sobering findings about the state of science in America, with the rest of the Western world surely on their heels. I learned heaps and believe every single person with minimal -, as well maximum intelligence should see this! Parents owe it to their kids!

Not for the fainthearted. I loved the acting and although the mother was a little superhuman, both Renee Zellweger and William Hurt were superb. Meryl Streep's performance was as usual faultless, except for her character.

This type of movie is rare indeed and all the more highly appreciated! Not only is it well acted but it provides much needed inspiration in our day and age. It speaks of the power of faith and because it is true to life, it has reality to back it up! Please, movie makers, give us more of this genre and less of the deluge of crime flooding our screens and homes!

This movie is tops! I like the portrayal of this incredible story in an atmosphere of destruction and devastation. Well acted, well put together and watching the making of it and the depiction of the real heroine at the end. Top effort and very uplifting!

I liked the performance of Elizabeth Taylor and the depiction of her character in the movie. Rock Hudson's character depiction seemed quite hollow to me and the portrayal of Texan society and their mannerisms nauseating, especially the women! I repeat, a hollow effort allaround!

Fascinating, unusual but what an ego! He could have raised funds for a worthy cause in doing it but it seems to be all to do with himself! For that reason, a waste of a great talent.

It is a fairy tale type story but credible nevertheless. Very satisfying to watch. Great family flick!

Another must see story! This is an issue which, under the guise of "cultural norms" continues to devastate the lives of women in particular but also affects their families in devastating ways. This is truly a curse upon millions of women, which has lasted for over 3 milleniums! It has to stop! Apart from that, the story is riveting and the acting credible. Watch it and become a spokesperson and supporter for the abolition of this curse!

Such a circus is only possible in America in the 60's. The villain becomes the hero, the police goes soft and only the FBI finally comes down with the iron hand of justice. The family background of the main character is potentially tragic, were it not in line with this whole melodramatic unfolding real life story!

A woman displaying an extraordinary loyalty to and faith in her sibling, willing to pay a huge price to herself and her family. Very well acted, it is a heart renching story of determination to see justice done.

see Disc 2

For some reason I find Erin intensely irritating. She seems the ultimate do-gooder bimbo, getting herself into complete mindless messes, which embarass and endanger others. A kind of female anti-hero. On the other hand, the depiction of her grandfather and his experiences are intensely riveting and give a real insight into Britain's role and experiences after the second world war in that much disputed territory then called Palestine and now the reclaimed land of Israel!

Ah Hollywood! Thou who stretchest truth! I'm just reading up on historical records of this famous saga and the heroes look rather like anti-heroes! Nevertheless, the plot is good in the movie and Peter Toole is quite brilliant in it.

Top movie. Spielberg has done it again!

I love this type of storytelling, especially about early Australian settlers. Apart from a riveting plot, the quality of the movie is a little dated, sadly. I would have liked to see more of Luke's sister and to probe into her life as well. Written from a guy's perspective.

We need a new version of present day issues and alternatives. Good to know the history but could have been told much more succintly!

Absolutely fascinating! Gee they were odd, especially the poor daughter! Best of all, real life situation! Very well acted!

Will I dare be different? Yes I will! To me a time waster. Not my kind of humour, sorry.

This movie, although well acted and insightful is purely descriptive and does not lead anywhere. I have no idea what its purpose is and what its message, if any, is trying to convey.

This is a strange mix of comedy, fiction and some historical content. It did not appeal to me at all, sorry! I would have rather watched the real story about the real character.

This one is riveting and another authentic Australian gem. Asta is a very satisfying character and role to watch. She could have been easily overplayed but the director and the actress herself keep it just realistic and earthy enough to remain credible. It's the classical theme of the oppression of the underdog (whether woman, Aboriginal, black, poor) and in this movie, women and the working class strata of society in a small WA country town. Loved it!

Wonderful photography and a touching story! Although the message behind is still controversial for those not willing to accept popular explanations, this is a movie that will touch young and old. The making of it is a must to watch, so don't be content with just the movie itself.

Very entertaining movie about D.H. Lawrence himself and Australia at the beginning of the 1900s. Judy Davies gives a breathtaking performance and her German accent and depiction is flawless as his German wife. Lawrence depicts himself as aloof, incorruptible and very much the observer, which seems to match the character of a writer and social commentator of his times. Well worth a look at for those who are familiar with Lawrence's books.

Simply outstanding, in every way!

Outstanding travel reporting with that unique Palin touch of humour. The Russian choir segment is a must! I could watch it over and over and never get bored! He certainly likes the pretty and young tourist guides, that's for sure!

This is a bold attempt to put our familiar everyday microcosm into the context of our surrounding macrocosm. I give it special credit for trying to go outside the tried and tested ways of movie making. Faultless acting, good depiction of dysfunctional parenting and its effect on the children but it leaves a wide chasm between the two worlds and therefore needs re-writing and further experimentation with this subject.

Joan Allan is one of those infuriating characters which jealous rage produces. She certainly engages her audience in emotions almost as contradictory as her own. That speaks of good acting and a good script. Kevin's role is a little shallow. I thought the plot was brilliant! It leaves you a little dumbfounded...

Audrey Tautou is always spellbinding. She does not disappoint in this movie and I like the surprise ending. The war scenes are gory but not as bad as Saving Private Ryan. Do yourself a favour and get it out and if you are squeamish just close your eyes during the gory bits.

I like good script and this one just doesn't clinch it for me.

Very forgettable movie. In my opinion, poorly "designed" characters, I didn't like any of them. The plot superficial. B-grade at best, despite having great main actors who can usually do much better.

This one is slow moving but very subtle and insightful in the depiction of the main characters. A credible story of hitting rock-bottom in the out-of-control life of a self-confessed alcoholic. There is a tragic-comic aspect to the main character and a surprising ability to read the people around him. I really liked the role of the young black teenage boy and the relationship which develops between him and the main character. As well, the relationship between the main character and the pregnant neighbour. Not typical Hollywood characters and that is a relief (ie. desperado finds Barbie doll and all is well)! The end is in the same vein.

I would say without hesitation; this is a must see movie! We know that many parts of Africa are in dire straits, with child soldiers forced to kill even their own families, AIDS rampant and leaving many orphans, starvation etc. etc. Unspeakable horrors but so easily forgotten. This movie, based on real events, actual and past, is an eye-opener about the reality of the lives some are forced to live. We cannot remain passive in the face of such misery. I highly congratulate the makers of this movie, which contrary to the mainstream entertainment media, tries to wake us up rather than lull us into escapism, as most entertainment tends to do. The director's comments, although lengthy, are well worth making time for. It sheds a lot of light on the movie itself. Suspense all the way, even for the adrenaline junkies! I liked the acting of the female main character best! Do yourself a favour and watch this one!

Unfortunate title but movie is very enjoyable. Good plot, good depiction of battle scenes. I give this one a four stars.

I enjoyed this but think it really is a movie for kids, pre- and teens. Some funny scenes!

This is a vow movie! Starkly realistic, touchingly human, depicting the horrendous cruelty of totalitarian regimes towards any whisper of opposition! This survival story is gripping and the main characters brilliant! Best of all; it's supposed to be a true story!

Very enjoyable story with some surprises. Humour and depth combined very successfully. I loved the unusual mix of both main characters and what a relief that we don't have to endure long lovemaking scenes, which should be classified as soft porn! Very satisfying viewing for those who love a little bit of romance thrown in the mix!

I found it as dreary as the landscape. The night scenes frustrating in their repetitive similarity. Many similar types of movies have been made, with a similar theme - much more successfully! The end tops it all! It leaves the spectator high and dry.

Grizzly story, brilliantly portrayed by the main female character. Some dark characters here, none a la hollywood, which is a relief!

I love most stuff by them, so enjoyed their nice wholesome fun. They are funny, even in themselves, especially Ronnie Corbett. You look at his grin and away you are chuckling...