Eva's Reviews
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Lots of coarse language, crime scenes with graphic images of human bodies cut into pieces, etc. Not my cup of tea and overall not convincing from psychological point of view.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
French film with English subtitles. Did not like it, too disconnected from reality.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
German language film, with English subtitles. Includes a brief interview with the director in extra features. Film takes place in suburbia near Vienna, during a heat spell, over one weekend or so. Six stories of ordinary people are interwoven into one film. Includes some real sex scenes. Dialogue is improvised by non-professional actors but according to the story outlined/ written by the director. Reminds my of Fassbinder films, but is even better, more crisp and real. Excellent cinema, in my view but will not please many viewers. No Hollywood celebrities in this film!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
TIMEWASTER in our opinion; two stars is very generous of me...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Four stars for WEIRDNESS. I think this film is about a mental ilness, most likely a schizophrenia?...
Watching it makes you tired, very hard to understand indeed!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Typical american thriller, with good looking actors in two main roles.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Takes place in Mexico, about 100 years ago.
Suitable for viewers who like Latin American "Magical Reality" novels and films.
The novel on which it has been based contains some recipes such as quails with rose petals, etc (I think)....
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Slightly old fashioned (and long) melodrama. However, both socio- historical and geographical backgrounds are of some interest to people interested in Vietnam's past struggles against French imperialism. Three stars.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
nice helicopter shots, but petrol sniffing and football playing are not my real interests, a bit boring for me...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
MUSICAL INTELLIGENCE and overall both clever and quirky! Highly Talented man, indeed!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It is a children's tale and a bit too long. For lovers of FANTASY...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
It is a children's tale and a bit too long. Only for lovers of FANTASY...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
It is a children's tale and a bit too long. Only for lovers of FANTASY...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Takes place in a coastal town of Bermagui (in part).
Not a heartwarming film at all, in my opinion, on the contrary, may make you feel even more insecure about this world and the cruel nature of things, injustices, stupidity, etc. The ending does not fit the rest of the film, in my view, overall a disappointment, below expectations!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
A mix of voodoo, glamour and Survival. Has some contuinuty problems and overall not very realistic, in reality they would suffer from being very sunburnt, etc.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Nice French landscapes and period costumes. The plot however is super-silly: an angel giving advice on growing grapes?... Also I did not like casting half-Maori lady as a French pheasant's wife from centuries ago. overall not great. the disk has several extra features, but nothing great in my view.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Nice French landscapes and period costumes. The plot however is super-silly: an angel giving advice on growing grapes?... Also I did not like casting half-Maori lady as a French pheasant's wife from centuries ago. overall not great. the disk has several extra features, but nothing great in my view.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
The aerial images were very nice, music also nice, but the spoken text was often plain silly; statements like "it is too late to be pessimistic", or "trees are defying gravity", etc. I give 5 stars for images only.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
The aerial images were very nice, music also nice, but the spoken text was often plain silly; statements like "it is too late to be pessimistic", or "trees are defying gravity", etc. I give 5 stars for images only.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
The idea is silly but it does lead to some important questions about relationships, etc. takes place in L.A. Very light viewing; the DVD contains some extra features.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
The idea is silly but it does lead to some important questions about relationships, etc.
takes place in L.A. Very light viewing; the DVD contains some extra features.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Have seen on TV part one (out of three parts on the DVD). Kate Humble does not come across as acting naturally, apart from that is informative. Mixture of history, geography and culinary.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Very stereotypical plot. (Visually nice but all the rest is c**p. ) Only for funs of action packed silly Sci-Fiction.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
The DVD has several extra features including Dick's offer of high financial award to a young person or group who will take the issue of sustainable population into the public domain and initiate political debate, etc. More info on the website
dicksmithpopulation.com or similarly worded. The award is still available to the right person, I believe.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Spoken in French, with English subtitles. There are some kinky scenes, such as the cigarette smoking in highly unusual fashion (!) and some of the last scenes, etc. I would not give it 5 stars nor 4 stars, not a real "masterpiece".
I think 3 stars is about adequate/high enough for this classic semi-pornographic film...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Already 20 years old, but still of interest; there are some funny moments and some drama. Overall an entertaining mix.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Yes, an embarrassing film, mostly because of violence. Curious combination of breasty females, the background of Nevada(?) desert with cactuses, service station, etc. I did not watch it till the end but have been told there was plenty of violence. Very Russ Meyer.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
A British TV "travel" program, but with a difference. (An overview over many centuries, going back to ancient Romans, medieval times and so on.)
Also traversing many continents and various spices/recipes. As such lacking depth a bit, attempting to cover "everything" but very briefly. Should please people with low attention span, lasts 50 minutes or so.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
I agree with the reviewers below. Form over substance and the film seems very pale with passage of time. Of only passing historical interest, I would say.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Consists of three parts. Highly recommended in today's competitive world of consumerism and materialism.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Not completely believable, especially the character of Alexandra (a wife), on the one hand she complains that she has no power and is such a "helpless housewife" and on the other hand she has "her business" on side, i.e. is very "enterpraneurial" and promiscuous, I would say, so the story seems inherently inconsistent...
Only for lovers of suspense, over all rather unpleasant film. You have been warned!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Yeah, like high octane collective madness...Drinking, fighting and very loud...
We did not watch it till the end, it was that bad. I agree with all reviewers (see below) who gave it one, zero or two stars only.
Not funny at all. Just excruciatingly loud madness; watching it makes you tired very quickly.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
I feel I should not really comment on this film if apparently 50 minutes have been cut out, presumably by censors? Would like to see the uncut version, otherwise it is a waste of time, I think.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Intriguing darkish film, indeed "Mulholand Drive" does come to mind a bit, but at least there is a "rational" resolution to the story (unlike in Lynch's films), keeps you interested till the very end. Alison Lohman is great looking, Kevin Bacon is intriguing, over all not too bad at all, well edited and directed, there are several extra features on the DVD, does deserve four stars at least!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Three short films, in French but with English subtitles, each by different director and with different stars. Each one is different. Not great but not bad either. Worth ordering.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
After a lot of discussions with my partner we have decided to give it 3 stars or so (I slept through about 1 hour of it). It is a very long film indeed (4 hours in total!) and oh-so-French!....But there are some redeeming points too...Read all the reviews below and then decide...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Did not like it at all: not funny, not interesting, no anything!
Felt like a TV soap series! Rubish. Dogma or not, Zero stars from me and my partner!
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
I liked it a lot, especially the second part of the film. You have got to view it till the end to see what an intelligent film it is, the ending will surprise you too! It stars like an ordinary film like many others but then it becomes very multilayered and revealing so much about how politics works, how media work and so on and on. The old saying comes to mind: Justice is open to everybody, just like the Ritz....Fully deserves 5 stars and check out the extra features too!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
There are two good things I can state about this film: 1.) truly interesting choice of background landscapes (Yorkshire) and 2.) Highlights the issue of class division in Britain, from a fresh viewpoint. Apart from that it was not that interesting to me and not terribly believable, but still I give it 3 stars for originality. (Faked Yorkshire accent was difficult to understand for my non-British ears...)
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Nice costumes and Arnold is very good as Conan. A classic. Was entertaining. (Is also available as a blue ray.)
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Nice costumes and Arnold is very good as Conan. A classic. Plenty of extra features on the disc. Was entertaining.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Really great costumes and decorations. Lots of eroticism (arguably bordering on sexism?) but nothing too serious, so fairly entertaining classic; "must-see".
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Old animated Japanese cross between sci-Fiction and children's story. Suitable for entire family, fairly traditional, a nice change from Disney perhaps. (THis film is also available in blue ray.) One could call it a steam punk story...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Old animated Japanese cross between sci-Fiction and children's story. Suitable for entire family, fairly traditional, a nice change from Disney perhaps.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Main emphasis is on cartrhography, topography, etc. But also you do get some glimpses of underwater creatures such as deep corals, hot vents creatures and a bit about bioluminescence (and even about seals, enexpectedly). Overall fairly good documentary, four stars from me. Also contains a small fragment of "Aliens of the depth" film.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
I liked Uma Thurman's performance only. Henry was shown as a pedestrian/primitive brute and Anais was not believable , switching from overly romantic to something else...Nice costumes, acrobats, etc. But overall not a masterpiece in my view.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
This is a Canadian version of French film "Nathalie". The plot has been changed and more twists and turns added in this version, which also feels longer. I much preferred the relative simplicity of the French version. Having said that, the acting and direction in "Chloe" are overall not too bad. It was interesting to view both films and compare them. View first the French film "Nathalie" and then this film!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Great folkloric music from Armenia plus an interesting study of relationship breakdown and questions about compatibility of main characters. Also about cultural and language barriers existing between people, especially in multicultural societies such as Canada. Oldish film but still of some value.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Did not like improvised acting, too jerky, (switching from one mood to over for no reason). Three stars for originality, but it is not a masterpiece, a bit amateurish production overall.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Did not find it interesting.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Family entertainment = for children. Too many scenes taken in a studio instead of travelling to real locations!
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Lots of martial arts, guns, specials effects. Not that interesting to me. Perhaps good for teenage boys...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Lots of martial arts, guns, specials effects. Not that interesting for me. Perhaps good for teenage boys...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
There is a twist at the end, worth viewing till the end.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Highly educational, good for most viewers, both young and old.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Great visuals and unique setting. Not much is happening, indeed, but it is something different, for sure.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
I agree with most of reviewers below. Three stars from me too. Looks very different from most animated films.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Combines music from Opera (Carmen) with Flamenco dancing. Got colour and rhythm and sensuality!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Not as good/informative as "How Earth was made" series (less informative) but still OK, good quality images.Part 2 concentrates on Fire (coal, gas/oil, etc.) and influence of humans on climate of the planet. Well worth viewing.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Just like the first reviewer has said: this is an ordinary blue ray and NOT 3D. Perhaps wait till true 3D version is available. Only then worth considering ordering, perhaps...
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Most irritating film in ages! Total nonsense. Only for silly teenagers.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Most irritating film in ages! Total nonsense. Only for silly teenagers.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Most irritating film in ages! Total nonsense. Only for silly teenagers.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Most irritating film in ages! Total nonsense. Only for silly teenagers.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Excellent highly educational documentary. This disc (number 2) consists of three parts/locations
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Not as good as "I stand alone" but still very good! Challenging viewing, brave film-making!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Typical Hollywood pulp; only for lovers of Science-Fiction Fantasy/Nordic myths. Stars Natalie Portman.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Typical Hollywood pulp; only for lovers of Science-Fiction Fantasy/Nordic myths. Stars Natalie Portman.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Typical Hollywood pulp; only for lovers of Science-Fiction Fantasy/Nordic myths. Stars Natalie Portman.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
I agree, it is an outstanding documentary, (order a 3D version and view it in 3D if you can!) , was amazing and if you are in to surfing or just interested in testosterone-driven men who push the envelope this is a great movie and well worth watching!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
I agree, it is an outstanding documentary in 3D , was amazing and if you are in to surfing or just interested in testosterone-driven men who push the envelope this is a great movie and well worth watching!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
we particularly liked scenes filmed in natural environment of high mountains. Could have been edited to be slightly shorter. Overall highly recommended, especially to young males who are into snowboarding and surfing, etc. but order it in a 3D version instead and watch it in 3D if you only can!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
we particularly liked scenes filmed in natural environment of high mountains. Could have been edited to be slightly shorter. Overall highly recommended, especially to young males who are into snowboarding and surfing, etc. but order it in a 3D version instead and watch it in 3D if you only can!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
This 3D doco worked very well in 3D , we particularly liked scenes filmed in natural environment of high mountains. Could have been edited to be slightly shorter. The DVD contains some extra features. Overall highly recommended, especially to young males who are into snowboarding and surfing, etc.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Completely unpredictable Australian film. Slightly over the top/absurd. I give it 4 stars for originality. I liked the contrast of the megacity (Tokyo) with the Australian bush. Something different for adventurous viewers, so go for it!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
I liked old fashion /cloths and interior designs, etc, but the story is not worth anything, B grade old movie...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Old musical, of sorts... Only for fans of this style of music, younger generations will not particularly like it, I think...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Old musical, of sorts... Only for fans of this style of music, younger generations will not particularly like it, I think...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
This film is a part of Trilogy, the general themes of this film are very close indeed to "Dancer in the Dark" (also part of the same trilogy), namely disability (both physical and mental), female friendship, being ostracised by the public, naivity, etc.
The overall aura is the same as in "Dancer in the Dark'. Arguably this the best film of this director, but not easy viewing, very gritty, thought provoking, different. The DVD contains several extra features such as deleted scenes and interviews. Worth viewing but not an uplifting film. (Does not deserve R rating, no shocking sex scenes at all, in my view.)
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
This is only guitar music plus images of parrot fish and corals with no words or information to accompany the images.
I expected more informational content; it it was not what expected. Below average.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Takes place in Hong Kong in 2029 or something like that. I liked the music and urban landscapes. I did not like all the shooting and fighting.
You can choose either English dubbing or subtitles; perhaps listening to original sound is preferred because they have modulated actors' voices in some very fancy way (explained in the extra features), so too bad it was lost on me (as we have opted for English dubbing not knowing about special effects in the Japanese version of sound).
Suitable for surround home systems!
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Takes place in Hong Kong in 2029 or something like that. I liked the music and urban landscapes. I did not like all the shooting and fighting.
You can choose either English dubbing or subtitles; perhaps listening to original sound is preferred because they have modulated actors' voices in some very fancy way (explained in the extra features), so too bad it was lost on me (as we have opted for English dubbing not knowing about special effects in the Japanese version of sound).
Suitable for surround home systems!
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Very nice film that the entire family will like!
Full of humanity and whimsical at the same time. Worth ordering for sure, (especially in 3D blue ray version if you can!)
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Very nice film that the entire family will like!
Full of humanity and whimsical at the same time. Worth ordering for sure, especially in 3D blue ray if you can!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Very nice film that the entire family will like!
Full of humanity and whimsical at the same time. Worth ordering for sure, (especially in 3D blue ray version if you can!)
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Disc 1 consists of compilation of several cinema news reels, mostly American (plus one short Soviet item, about canine experiments).
Also contains unedited moon landing broadcast , not very interesting but shows cosmic rays on the film as white momentary spots on the film. Overall was not very interesting, not enough technical details and too political (showing Kennedy and Nixon and the Russian leader as well). Of interest for historians and people truly fascinated by the topic of early space exploration (=Apollo programs).
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Based on true story of Wladyslaw Szpilman. Reminds me "Shindler's List" but seems even more sad and painful to watch.
Having said that, it is a great film based on great book , hope to read the book one day...Highly recommended but be warned: this is not a cheerful nor uplifting film.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Very long film from Taiwan (with English subtitles) about ordinary people, did not keep my attention...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Too slow for me. Also the relationship between husband and wife seems so very formal, even after 10 years of marriage, a bit hard to believe, but maybe it has something to do with the culture and in part this is exactly the subject of this film: an unhappy marriage and a love story unfolding very slowly in parallel. Very "zen", perhaps, but not for me.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Natural MAGIC, or Magic, naturally! Consists of two separate DVDs.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Natural MAGIC, or Magic, naturally!
Consists of two separate DVDs.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Excellent story, based on a classic American novel by Richard Yates. While not the most pleasant story to view, it is very truthful and universal, almost entire story is based in American suburbia in the fifties of last century, but encapsulates very well more general issues of personal aspirations in life, balancing obligations towards children and partners with own desires and dreams. Balancing mundane obligations such as paying the mortgage versus living "to one's full". Reminds me of "American Beauty" by the same director, just a bit, but this film is even better in my opinion.
The DVD contains many extra features such as deleted scenes, documentary about Richard Yates, etc. Highly recommended!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Excellent story, based on a classic American novel by Richard Yates. While not the most pleasant story to view, it is very truthful and universal, almost entire story is based in American suburbia in the fifties of last century, but encapsulates very well more general issues of personal aspirations in life, balancing obligations towards children and partners with own desires and dreams. Balancing mundane obligations such as paying the mortgage versus living "to one's full". Reminds me of "American Beauty" by the same director, just a bit, but this film is even better in my opinion.
The DVD contains many extra features such as deleted scenes, documentary about Richard Yates, etc. Highly recommended!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
This is a TV documentary in two parts (both parts on one DVD). It kept us interested: combining love affairs with politics. Not perfect but still quite well worth watching!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Possibly young viewers will like it, as it is sort of a fairy-tale/fantasy and was a high budget film (actually over the budget film!). Me and my partner are not in that age category, so not the best entertainment for us; only two and a half or at most 3 stars from me, for innovative visuals...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Possibly young viewers will like it, as it is sort of a fairy-tale/fantasy and was a high budget film (actually over the budget film!).
Me and my partner are not in that age category, so not the best entertainment for us; only two and a half or at most 3 stars from me, for innovative visuals... The DVD contains many extra features, including deleted scenes and interviews.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Liked some music (but the most "Carmina Burana" piece (which is about drinking alcohol, so actually relevant to the story!).)
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Liked some music (but the most "Carmina Burana" piece (which is about drinking alcohol, so actually relevant to the story!).)
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
A bit slow, mostly shows people talking while walking (on a religious pilgrimage). Perhaps will appeal to practising Catholics. To me it felt like a theatrical play, lots of talking. Overall Did not interest me, the only sort of likeable character was the fat Dutchman.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
A bit slow, mostly shows people talking while walking (on a religious pilgrimage). Perhaps will appeal to practising Catholics. To me it felt like a theatrical play, lots of talking. Overall Did not interest me, the only sort of likeable character was the fat Dutchman.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
It is silly, of course; at times funny. Consists of two parts on one DVD. The main character continuously jumps from one fantasy/fetish to other. From moral point of view he becomes worse and worse...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Classic British comedy, poking fun on how societies work, the tendency of crowds to just follow without much thinking and the tendency of politicians to provide lots of spin and at the same time avoiding inconvenient truths, etc. Still relevant and still funny!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Classic British comedy, poking fun on how societies work, the tendency of crowds to just follow without much thinking and the tendency of politicians to provide lots of spin and at the same time avoiding inconvenient truths, etc.
Still relevant and still funny!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Consists of 3 parts: cognition; personality and interpersonal interactions/recognition of emotions. Some experiments have been insightful (for instance showing that younger babies are better at recognising individual faces of primates other than humans than older babies, etc.). However some other experiments were very poorly designed (for instance positive responses of people to the lady trying on unflattering clothing reflect more on what is considered culturally appropriate in a given culture, not so much on people being able to "read the face" of the actress and her expectations...)
Overall a mixed bag, some trivialities , simplistic commentary and pseudo-science (psychology) but also some gems in between all that nonsense. Three stars from me.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
A variation on a chick flick. There is a happy ending, of course, as always in this type of film.
Not exactly my type of favourite cinema. Three stars only.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
A variation on a chick flick. There is a happy ending, of course, as always in this type of film.
Not exactly my type of favourite cinema. Three stars only.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
What a great Aussie doco! Really great! The DVD contains several extra features. Everything worth viewing! Five stars! And I liked music too!
(Order and view it in Blue-ray if you can)
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
What a great Aussie doco! Really great! The DVD contains several extra features. Everything worth viewing! Five stars! And I liked music too!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Not nearly as good as "Nanook of the North".
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Dark look at American suburbian life...
Was better than "Mulholland drive " but not my favourite style of film.
Maybe D. Lynch is simply not for me...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Dark look at American suburbian life...
Was better than "Mulholland drive " but not my favourite style of film.
Maybe D. Lynch is simply not for me...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Depicting American suburbia quite accurately (men collecting guns; teenage girls collecting money for plastic surgery, real estate agents projecting success in order to be successful, etc.) but also with a touch of surrealism (several red rose petals fantasies/scenes) ...I liked both the script and the cinematography and most actors delivered very well. Will be interesting to see more films by the same director...Worth viewing, for sure!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Depicting American suburbia quite accurately (men collecting guns; teenage girls collecting money for plastic surgery, real estate agents projecting success in order to be successful, etc.) but also with a touch of surrealism (several red rose petals fantasies/sceenes) ...I liked both the script and the cinematography and most actors delivered very well. Will be interesting to see more films by the same director...Worth viewing, for sure!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
The main emphasis of this DVD is on fauna of the Kimberley region: various birds, reptilians, marsupials, mammals, etc are shown. Also some plants (boab tree in dry season), etc. are shown, as well as aerial landscapes of waterfalls and tidal flats, etc. One Aboriginal family is shown, visiting the area during school holidays, as I understand, in order to show it to their younger generation. The rock painting are also shown, but are not really the main subject of this DVD. Overall it is good but not as good as BBC's nature documentaries, but if you are interested in that region of our continent then it is a valuable viewing!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
This documentary is jumping from one director to other, from one film to other, etc. Will only interest historians of cinema or particular fans of US cinema of that period. For me the message was that drug habit was widely spread, even among top directors. Then came blockbusters such as Jaws and the nature of the US cinema evolved (or regressed?) to B grade films with worldwide commercial success...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
(This film is also available in Blue ray version).
Part one takes place in North America and Africa; Second DVD covers South America, Asia and Australia, as well as the "making of" process. Shows various species of birds but also some marine creatures and big mammals such as lions, bizons, hienas, etc. Incredibly sharp images and ingredible close-ups. Collaboration and competition between species is nicely shown, Highly rewarding experience! Worth your time, for sure! Hire both DVDs!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
It was not bad. The shaky camera was off putting at first but then I got used it it. The acting was slightly overdone in some scenes. The most interesting aspect of the story for me was how the guests received the speeches of the main characters. It was like in "Emperor has no clothing" (classic fable/story) - out of politeness and conformance pretend that everything is perfectly all right even if it is not. That happens so often in our society, I liked this aspect being exposed in the film. The DVD contains several extra features, the most interesting one is the second one, titled "Disclosure". I do recommend it! Overall a nice surprise, it is definitely better than many contemporary Hollywood movies done on much higher budget and with famous actors and directors. Worth renting and viewing, despite imperfections, for sure! Something different!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
A sad, depressing movie that was lacking authenticity for me. The idea of a zoo suffering from the effects of war was taken from the war-torn Iraq, not from the conflicts of the Eastern Europe. Some landscape features in the film looked like Prague, did not fit the story. Also the costumes and the cars did not exactly fit, somehow from historical viewpoint it did not feel completely right. Overall it was sad but so what, we all knew that wars are a nasty business, didn't we?...
The DVD contains the extra feature ("the making of"), not very interesting either. Two stars only from me.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Part one takes place in North America and Africa. Shows several species of birds but also some marine creatures and big mammals such as lions, bizons, hienas, etc. Incredibly sharp images and ingredible close-ups. Collaboration and competition between species is nicely shown, Highly rewarding experience! Worth your time, for sure!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
This DVD contains several short films. The first two or so are black and white and I did not like them at all, you can see that they have been made by a student and not a fully mature director. They do not deserve many stars at all. On the other hand I did enjoy tremendously two last short films on the same DVD which are basically interviews with interesting people. One (titled ITALIAMERICAN, I think) shows the parents of the director, talking to each other and to the camera, talking about Italianas in New York at the beginning of 20th century, the immigration, etc. There is a recipe for family meat balls at the end of the film. The very last short film is basically personal storytelling by a young man called Steven Prince. And WHat a character he is/was! And what a brilliant storytelling! In summary, I do highly recommend the last two films on the DVD, but all the rest are not nearly as good.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Parts of this film have been recorded in Morocco instead of Tibet. The costumes, jewellery and interiors are all very pleasant to look at, full of colour and certain opulence. I do not believe in reincarnations so some parts were a bit boring to me, on the other hand the historical context was interesting, for instance the meeting with Mao, etc. The music by Philip Glass was great! The DVD contains several extra features. Overall definitely worth viewing, and especially in Blue ray!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Parts of this film have been recorded in Morocco instead of Tibet. The costumes, jewellery and interiors are all very pleasant to look at, full of colour and certain opulence.
I do not believe in reincarnations so some parts were a bit boring to me, on the other hand the historical context was interesting, for instance the meeting with Mao, etc.
The music by Philip Glass was great!
The DVD contains several extra features. Overall definitely worth viewing!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Intriguing plot, original story, reminded me of the last Kubrick's film "Eyes Wide shut", arguably this film is even better than Kubrick's last film! Well done Aussie film, not for everybody although, adult viewing only.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
I think I did not understand the idea(s) behind this film. Maybe one needs to be a Japanese to grasp it? Not sure...Have fallen asleep while watching it and my partner too...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Informative and very interesting; great contrast with our consumeristic lives of today. I did not know that igloos had windows made out of ice and reflectors on side of the windows, etc. Fascinating depiction of daily lives, very different from ours.
The white people offered to them starchy and sweet foods that made them seek. Then the white people offered some medication to treat problems caused by white people. Highly symbolic film from nearly 100 years ago!
Highly recommended!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
I have no clue what it was all about but yes, "odd in a way that's so weird you keep watching, kind of like a car crash that you just cant look away from"...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
A CLASSIC "MUST SEE", with some nice wast landscapes, costumes, hair styles and shots of animals. Highly recommended!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Highly educational in fields such as natural history, geology, seismology , Earth's magnetism and history of life. Talks (among others) about the ongoing reversing process of the Earth's magnetic poles; stromatolites (both fossils and the living ones, in Australia), iron oxites, diamonds, peridots, etc. Also mentions bacterias living in extreme conditions, for instance deep underground. Highly recommended for people who want to understand the world we live in.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Documentary about life in modern China, some parts are in English and some are Chinese with English subtitles. Make sure you also view the extra features, in particular the "deleted scenes" are good. This film depicts lives of ordinary people in modern China, both in rural areas and in towns. Worth viewing, for sure. Plus you will also see some interesting landscapes filmed along the major river, and the process of flooding, of course.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Highly experimental Australian film, preferably listen to this film wearing headphones, for best sound effects. Worth viewing even although subject matter is difficult (incest, parental abuse, animal cruelty, mental illness, etc.). Some crude language. The ending is much too optimistic, but it is a fable not a "real story" so shouldn't be taken too literally.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Highly experimental Australian film, the DVD contains several extra features, preferably listen to this film wearing headphones, for best sound effects. Worth viewing even although subject matter is difficult (incest, parental abuse, animal cruelty, mental illness, etc.). Some crude language. The ending is much too optimistic, but it is a fable not a "real story" so shouldn't be taken too literally.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Russian film with English subtitles. Several extra features included.
This film has no plot, it is a collection of images, supposedly memories from childhood and other periods/life events/situations/landscapes.
It is conceived as a visual and musical hypnosis. Hard (or impossible) to comprehend in terms of logic. Among images included there is some art by Leonardo da Vinci and other European old masters. Lots of the background music consists of classical music by Bach, etc. The film includes poetry of the father of the director, recited by him (the father), the main female character is director's wife and the director's mother also plays in this film. So, highly personal film, not for everybody, that is for sure. One of the least accessable films by Tarkovsky. Only for fans and scholars of cinema.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Spoken in Indonesian, with English subtitles. Great cinematography, really enjoyable watching. Shows ordinary life both in the city and in the village from which the grandmother came from. Really nicely done. Possibly some acting has been involved in making it, so maybe strictly speaking it is not a 100% a documentary? I am not sure, but in any case is worth viewing! Too bad this is only part 3 out of three parts...Give it a chance and order today!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Mr Chomsky is an idealist who believes human nature is intrinsically good; he has very high moral standards for himself. He is a modest and admirable character; trying to evaluate American policy and "democracy" in an honest and objective way. He feels for the oppressed. Of course he is being ridiculed and criticised for his views. The film was made 20 years old but still so topical. Several extra features included on the disc; all highly recommended viewing for every thinking man and woman on the planet! Long live Mr Chomsky!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
German language film with English subtitles. Several extra features also worth viewing.
I obviously have got to disagree with "freo", see his review below. BUT I also loved this film, 5 vstars, no doubt about it. Brilliant plot and acting, sensitive and subtle masterpiece. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED to anybody indeed! Great stuff!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Mexican film with English subtitles. ( blue ray version)
Stars boring, but then becomes a story of travel across Mexican landscapes and villages and motels, etc.
The most important scene is at the very end, you have got to see it to fully understand the film.
What starts like a trivial film ends like a deep story about human condition.
Several extra features. Highly recommended.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Mexican film with English subtitles. (A blue ray version also available from quickflix).
Stars boring, but then becomes a story of travel across Mexican landscapes and villages and motels, etc.
The most important scene is at the very end, you have got to see it to fully understand the film.
What starts like a trivial film ends like a deep story about human condition.
Several extra features available on the disk. Highly recommended.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
This is an international collaborative effort: China Australia Germany. But quite frankly to me it feels like a Hollywood film, the main female character has perfect (artificially) "blond hair" all the time (in very difficult and poor war conditions? Being a busy nurse and a drug addict? How come?...), and there is a typically Hollywood-like romantic story of course to accompany (or dilute?) the main theme of orphans etc. Cliché after cliche. The topic of travelling for thousands of miles is treated only very marginally at the very end of the movie. It is not well explained what did they eat most of the time, etc. The logistics of their life are not really detailed. Also it is very hard to believe that the main male character has learned how to speak Chinese to such a high (i.e. truly oratorical level!) in a matter of weeks or months only. I simply can not believe it! The interesting part to me are only the credits where we see and hear real children of Silk Road as adults. Not a great film. Too bad because the story has some potential....
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
OK but not great. Mostly takes place in Ecuador, in one particular area. The seismic equipment they use looks quite ancient to me. Most of the documentary focuses on the issue/question "Shall we evacuate town now or wait?" as well as conducting escape drills, etc. People live normal lives in the shadow of active volcano for years, uncertain what will happen if ever. Long term they ignore the warnings, do not relocate.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Light comedy with some natural scenery in the background. The DVD contains several extra features (deleted scenes, "the making of", etc.). Reminds me a bit of another American comedy: "The Bucket List" in which we also see a rich man collaborating with a poor man, franticly travelling and trying to satisfy their dreams.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Light comedy with some natural scenery in the background. The DVD contains several extra features (deleted scenes, "the making of", etc.). Reminds me a bit of another American comedy: "The Bucket List" in which we also see a rich man collaborating with a poor man, franticly travelling and trying to satisfy their dreams.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
This is a famous and influential French film, in black and white, with a highly "non-emotional" style of acting. Apparently has been loosely based on Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment". Influenced other "classic" films, such as "Taxi Driver", etc. The novel thing (in 1959) was the extensive verbal narrative by the main character, as well as extensively using non-professional actors. Well, after more than 50 years, I think it not as "brilliant" anymore. There are numerous better modern films nowadays with a similar topic of crime, I think, take for example "I stand alone" by Gaspar Noe..So, only 2 stars for Pickpocket itself. But, there is also an extra feature on the same disk, featuring interviews with the non-professional actors, 50 years later. Do not miss this one. The main actor went to leave in Mexico, the female character ended in Austria, etc. Their memories are interesting. Three stars for the extra feature!
(Maybe) - review by Eva
This film is an international co-production (French, British and Polish). Several languages are spoken in this film (French, English, Polish, etc.). Takes place in Paris, in various locations. It starts like a normal movie with a main theme of child custody battle, but then, gradually, the main theme seems to shifts into the territory of "psychic breakdown" or a psychiatric disease (schizophrenia?), perhaps. Strong points of this film are: nice music (Eva Demarczyk's old song "Tomaszow"), highly poetic visual narrative (showing insects, old growth forest with owls, etc.), elegant and mysterious character of K. S. T., etc. The story line will not satisfy many viewers. This film reminds me of work by Kieslowski (in particular "white" (part of "Colour trilogy") as well as some films by Tarkowski. In other words: atmosphere and form over storyline. Not for everybody.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
80% of this film are interviews with real escort girls and street girls and with a male director of porn films, etc.
Most is spoken in Spanish, with English subtitles.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Australian film based on a theatre play. If you like theatre then perhaps you will like this film.
I disagree with the reviewers giving it only one star, it is not that bad. Several characters are quite likeable in this film. The décor of the brother is warm/tasteful, plus good looking ladies, of course. Yes, it is quite "humanistic" perhaps even going into "moralizing" teritory, a bit too much talking about religion and God, for my taste. But overall quite watch-able.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Do you find it sexually exciting viewing car crashes and injured bodies with deep scars, etc. If yes then perhaps this film is for you.
I am with Gerd on this one: I too find it unappealing and ridiculous. I would rather believe in sex with industrial chimneys or Eiffel Tower. I feel so perfectly normal after viewing this bizarre film.
Not worth your time, in my opinion.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
DOES deserve 4 stars for originality and artistic sensitivity. You have got to see it! And some sense of humour is a bonus.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It is not a happy movie at all! The main theme and emphasis is on dependence on drugs and narcotics and the way they will ruin your life. Not of great interest to me, quite frankly. I did liked other film by the same director (Black Swan) and that is why I have ordered this film, but these two films are so different...Will never view this film again, I think...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Spanish film with English subtitles; part of the so called "Testicle Trilogy", including "Jamon, Jamon" and "The tit and the Moon". Not as warm and whimsical as "The tit and the Moon", the main male character is very macho. Has two golden Rolex watches and two (or more?) sexy looking females. Is into making money, etc. Testosteron loaded vision of the world. The DVD contains an interview with the director. Overall perhaps worth viewing, but we preferred "The tit and the Moon". I give 3 stars to both films.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Great acting from two main characters but the relationship seems unlikely to me. Have seen it on TV before. A bit slow. Overall not superb but it does have something...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Aerial views of floods, not only in Lake Eyre but also in several other regions (including more north) of Australia and also showing the mouth of Murray river/lagoon. Many interviews with farmers, water birds biologist and tourists. Showing rescuing of sheep by helicopter and stranded cattle and emus and kangaroos, etc. wild flowers explosion in the desert, etc. Too bad it was not in Blue ray...The DVD contains several extra features (making of, etc.). Not too bad but not super outstanding either. Some nice landscapes but not in blue ray.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Yes, it was indeed ODD/STRANGE/BIZARRE/ECCENTRIC/WEIRD/ABSURD/MAD and AWKWARD and ....I did not like it!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
On a positive side: the music is pleasant and of fairly good sound quality and cinematography is innovative. What I did not particularly like was the commentary (both tone and substance of what has been said). In any case, if it was on blue ray I would probably give it 4 stars. But because it was not - only 3 stars from me, perhaps 3 and a half...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
It was really very good, good fun for the entire family.
Really very good film, above expectations!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It was really very good, good fun for the entire family.
The DVD contains several extra features, such as deleted scenes, documentary on voice recording, on the design of puppets, etc. Really very good film, above expectations!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
To view it in 3D you need sppecial glasses (MAGENTA AND GREEN glasses), not polarisation 3D glasses of a more common type!
We did not have MAGENTA AND GREEN glasses (where can I buy them? Perhaps QuickFlix could sell/distribute them?...Just an idea...), so we have selected a 2D version instead and it it was good, good fun for the entire family.
The DVD contans several extra features, such as deleted scenes, documentary on voice recording, on the design of puppets, etc. Really very good film/DVD (despite the 3D aspect not working for us).
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Typical Hollywood production. To maximise their profits they placed products such as Nike shoes very prominently, I do not like that. Also a calculated ethnic mix will ensure broad popularity. Two romantic couples are featured, one couple in a younger age group and the other a few years older; that too is a for profit calculated feature of the plot. Oh, well, I will forget this film pretty soon, quite frankly. Mostly for young people interested in pop culture/dance.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Typical Hollywood production. To maximise their profits they placed products such as Nike shoes very prominently, I do not like that. Also a calculated ethnic mix will ensure broad popularity. Two romantic couples are featured, one couple in a younger age group and the other a few years older; that too is a for profit calculated feature of the plot. Oh, well, I will forget this film pretty soon, quite frankly. Mostly for young people interested in pop culture/dance.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Typical Hollywood production. To maximise their profit they placed products such as Nike shoes very prominently, I do not like that. Also a calculated ethnic mix will ensure broad popularity. Two romantic couples are featured, one couple in a younger age group and the other a few years older; that too is a for profit calculated feature of the plot. Oh, well, I will forget this film pretty soon, quite frankly. Mostly for young people interested in pop culture/dance.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Classic Australian film produced in 1974, Depicts rural Australia from circa 1956. A real window into not only the male-dominated shearing business but also many historical aspects. Can you imagine today government sponsoring film on a topic of union movement/ successful strike? It shows how much modern Australia has shifted towards the right wing, both major parties have shifted right over the last 30 years or so. Australia was different when this movie was created. Worth a look because of its great historical value.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
I agree with some of the previous reviewers. The film is very firmly based in a bleak reality (except for the ending that was added on request of the young actors who wanted a positive, "hope inspiring ending").
The DVD contains several extra features such as interviews with the director and "Making of...", etc.
I liked the landscapes of Central Australia and the character of Nana who actually is a real Pintjubi (?) lady, (not able to speak much English). Overall the film is Of interest for people who want to know a bit more about real life in remote Aboriginal communities. Yes, you will remember it.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
I agree with the previous reviewer, Paul. The film is very firmly based in a bleak reality (except for the ending that was added on request of the young actors who wanted a positive, "hope inspiring ending"). The DVD contains several extra features such as interviews with the director and "Making of...", etc. I liked the landscapes of Central Australia and the character of Nana who actually is a real Pinjubi lady, (not able to speak much English). Overall Of interest for people who want to know a bit more about real life in remote Aboriginal communities.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Chinese film with some Japanese language as well, with English subtitles. The film Drags and drags and drags...
The main theme is relationships between fathers and sons. Shows a bit of landscapes of Yunnan province, but we expected more landscapes and less sentimentality. Not for everybody, that is for sure! (and not for us, we did finish viewing it but it was too slow and simply not that interesting for us). Contains some extra features (namely "the making of") which is very laudatory =an advertisement for the film, in my view..
(Maybe) - review by Eva
First DVD consists of 3 chapters, featuring aerial views of various landscapes and also showing animals (for instance various bears, snow leopards, elephants, pandas, etc.) and birds inhabiting Antarctic, Papua New Guinea, etc. Some marine creatures are also shown.
Huge flocks of migrating animals and birds as well as individuals hunting or being hunted, etc.
Excellent DVD for both nature lovers and for arm chair travellers!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Contrary to the opinion of many reviewers (below), I think Peter Sellers' style of acting does NOT serve the main premise of this film very well. He acts as if his brain has recently suffered from a stroke or something, it does not make the film believable or interesting at all. The most believable characters of the film are the female servant at the very beginning of the film and perhaps the couple of polite solicitors, also at the beginning of the film. Overall I am not impressed, was not funny, was not believable, was ridiculous. My spouse did not like it either. Some elements of the story reminded me of Kasper Hauser's story (film by Werner Hertzog, which was also not convincing and which I did not like either).
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Black and white film from 1932 or so. Too bad that subtitles are not available because, as many reviewers have already mentioned (below), the sound quality is very poor. So, I am afraid I did not understand much of what has been spoken in words.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
WHAT A NONSENSE FILM...And yes, it is seriously overdubbed in English; not only the voices that they have used don't really match the actors, but also the accents do not match each other, how come that the daughter has extremely strong American English accent while her parents do not have that accent? How come?...We have been extremely bored and annoyed while watching this bunch of nonsense...
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
(Get this film in a blue ray version (if you can view blue rays.))
t is a long film. Thus you may wish to allow 2 evenings/two seatings to view it . I liked the depiction of nature, the landscapes and images of the Melanesian people. The film was recorded both in Australia (Port Douglas area) and on Solomon Islands. The battle of various moral viewpoints is very well depicted, especially egoistic drive of some military leaders to secure their own career even if it costs lives and suffering of his troops, probably very true to real life. It is based on a novel, maybe someday I shall read that novel, I am not a great fun of war films or war stories in general, but this one has more universal appear, I think. Four stars from me.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It is a long film and there are several extra features (deleted scenes, historical black and white American news coverage from the relevant events, etc.), Thus you may wish to allow 2 evenings/two seatings to view it all. I like the depiction of nature, the landscapes and images of the Melanesian people. The film was recorded both in Australia (Port Douglas area) and on Solomon Islands. The battle of various moral viewpoints is very well depicted, especially egoistic drive of some military leaders to secure their own career even if it costs lives and suffering of his troops, probably very true to real life. It is based on a novel, maybe someday I shall read that novel, I am not a great fun of war films or war stories but this one has more universal appear, I think. Four stars from me.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It is sort of a slapstick comedy bordering on burlesque ( but definitely not an "arthouse", in my view). Contains some extra features namely two interviews with the main actresses (extra features have been recorded many years after the film "Up!" was released) . Do not expect anything very high brow...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Great Australian classic film. I liked the scenery and I also liked the main questions of the story, such as shall we choose security versus our dreams,; How much shall we compromise our dreams in the real life situations, what is realistic and what is not? , etc. Of universal appeal, and as such Will/should appeal to many Australian viewers, I think. The DVD contains several extra features (worth viewing).
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Black and white Indian film with English subtitles. Is slow but but with great sensitivity, music by Ravi Shankhar complements very well the images. Shows daily routines of rather poor people living in some village, the relationships between mother and daughter; mother and her son, neigbours, etc. Reaching very deep into the human psyhe, highly recommended, I like the most the monsoon scenes/lotus plants in rain.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Spanish film with English subtitles. Lacking psychological truth, in my view; hopelessly romantic characters I do not believe in. Also actors playing main characters at different stages in their life did not look similar at all, I mean the facial features have been very different, people do not change that much over the years in terms of shape of the nose, darkness of eyebrows, etc. as they grow up. I consider this film a total waste of time. One star only.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
It is a TV series, not as interesting as I expected; takes place mostly in the USA (and not in Latin America as I have wrongly assumed/expected). In any case, people with strong interest in air planes (either from technical or commercial point of view) may find it interesting. Secretly tracking and appraising air planes is not a career path for me, that is for sure! (So I did learn something from it, after all, I suppose...)
(Maybe) - review by Eva
(Watch it in Blu-ray version instead, if you can!).
Chinese movie with English subtitles. Around 1000 extras have been used to film the battle scenes. Gong Li is beautiful as an empress. The story is on a cruel side but probably that is actually how things did work in those times, poisoning with a black mushroom was a common tool, just like using polonium is today ;) It was interesting to read on the internet (after viewing the film) about the fashion of Tang Dynasty, at first I imagined that the film cannot be correct at all, such low cut dresses (décolletage) But it appears actually women of high status were allowed to wear dresses like that, apparently! I still have doubts regarding the pearly make up worn by Gong Li, it does not seem historically correct, but after all, what do I really know about fashions of Tang Dynasty? The answer is not much! Worth viewing for all the spectacular opulence / gold silver, etc. One of the biggest Chinese film productions ever!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Chinese movie with English subtitles. Around 1000 extras have been used to film the battle scenes. Gong Li is beautiful as an empress. The story is on a cruel side but probably that is actually how things worked in those times, poisoning was a common tool, just like polonium is today :) It was interesting to read on the internet (after viewing the film) about the fashion of Tang Dynasty, at first I imagined that the film can not be correct, such low cut dresses (decolletage) but actually women of high status were allowed to wear dresses like that apparently! I still have doubts regarding the make up worn by Gong Li, it does not seem historically correct, but after all, what do I really know about fashions of Tang Dynasty? The answer is not much! Worth viewing for all the opulence and gold, etc. One of the biggest Chinese film productions ever!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It is not often that I rate movies at 1 star only. But this one was such a huge disappointment. I agree with one of the earlier reviewers stating: " This movies goes absolutely no where and I finished the movie thinking what a waste of time." Laura Harring is a beautiful actress (previous Miss USA, half Mexican half German) but that is not enough to make an interesting/ good film. Such a long string of nonsence...Not my cup of tea at all!
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
A movie about Geishas, made by Americans in English, in California, on a custom built set made to look like old Kyoto, cast is a strange mix of Chinese actors (or rather I should say actresses) and Asian American (young girl/actress), etc. The dreadful mix of various accents was a shocker indeed (it is spoken in English but with accents). The whole thing felt very phony/ Westernized. But On a positive side, it is very visually pretty, I mean all colourful kimonos, actresses, the hairdos, make ups, Japanese gardens and interiors, exteriors, etc. Make sure that you view the extra features explaining the costume designing, and "geisha boot camp" (training the actresses in geisha-like manners), also explains the music composition and performances using some oriental instruments as well as western string instruments, played by real virtuosos of viola and cello. I did not like the ending, too romantic for me; unbelievable to me. But overall worth viewing for it's . Worth three or four stars. I will be generous: lets say 4 stars, despite some dissapointments mentioned above...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It is not a travel documentary, it is more about personal identity, about finding "who am I" now that I am a grown up and revisiting childhood dreams /wishes of being cool, athletic, unique, etc. Consists of several episodes, some more funny than others. Lots of slapstick humour, etc. About growing up in a psychological sense, putting silly childhood dreams and fantasies behind. good insight into how many young people think. Gentle humour, worth viewing.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Only for real lovers of traditional opera. I am not a real lover and therefore felt rather disappointed with a silly story, relatively poor image quality (it is not a blue ray), sparse decorations etc. Not worth viewing in my opinion.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Better than expected, has both human interest and action/entertainment. Will appear to many people, the main character has got some charisma even if mostly motivated by his desire to be famous, an interesting character. His friends who supported him are also shown and are able to comment/reflect. Contains several extra features; certainly worth viewing!
Five stars from me!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Italian movie with English subtitles. It starts like a chick flick and also ends like a chick flick, but fortunately the middle part is slightly more interesting, showing in a fast paced manner some interesting relationships in crises, with a touch of comedy. I liked especially the character of an energetic traffic policewoman. Probably deserves 3 stars.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Enjoyable French film with English subtitles. Do not take seriously people complaining about animal cruelty in this film. The scene showing a cat being placed into a bin was done with an artificial animal, I am pretty sure of that, I could see it was not a real cat . Also the scene with the dog being tied to the bus does not show the dog really suffering from it, it is just a film story. Towards the end of the movie a woman is hand-cuffed to a heater and has to run with the heater in her arms, why is nobody complaining about this scene that it was cruel? It is just a comedy and not to be taken too seriously. Having said that, I did like the underlying moral /ethical dilemmas and messages in this movie. Well deserved 4 stars from me!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Entertaining 3D action film, (now also available in blue ray and even in 3D blue ray)!
My only objections are to the excessive product placement(s) and glorifying/excessive usage of guns.
The moral and philosophical questions of artificial intelligence were interesting. Probably deserves 4 stars overall.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Entertaining action film; (but order 3D blue ray instead, if you can). My only objections are to the excessive product placement(s) and glorifying/excessive usage of guns. The moral and philosophical questions of artificial intelligence were interesting. Probably deserves 4 stars overall.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Entertaining 3D action film. My only objections are to the excessive product placement(s) and glorifying/excessive usage of guns. The moral and philosophical questions of artificial intelligence were interesting. Probably deserves 4 stars overall.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Nice cup size, but not my cup of tea...
Black and white film, Combines curvy aggressive ladies with sports cars, wrestling, kidnaping, etc. If you like Tarantino films perhaps you will like this film too. For me it was just too silly and pointlessly aggressive.
Too much testosterone in it and too little brain
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Typical Hong-Kong fare. Lots of swords, masks, etc. paraphernalia. Pleasing visuals but not very surprising.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Not interesting (to me) in the slightest. (What do I care about whose child it is, who is sleeping with who exactly, etc.)
So boring! Two stars at most!
Maybe later Woody Allen's films are better? Or earlier? Not sure; avoid unless you do like chick flick/ soapy sort of trivial films like this one...
(or Maybe I am not "middle class" enough for Woody Allen's movies? Maybe I am too much on a bohemian side of things...)
(Maybe) - review by Eva
I liked the middle part of the movie, namely the "persona" of the computer. Artificial intelligence is one of the main topics in this movie (together with human evolution and the concept of God as an advanced extraterrestrial beings/civilisation).
(Excellent) - review by Eva
This DVD comes with several extra features, including numerous interviews; the very last extra feature is an interview (Voice only, no pictures of the interview) with the director himself, about his career and motivations, etc. Very interesting. My only advice is when listening to this particular interview, you better reduce brightness of your screen image to a minimum, otherwise you risk burning out some pixels on your screen (because the image shown is static, not moving at all). As for the movie itself, I liked the middle part, the persona of the computer. Artificial intelligence is one of the main topics in this movie (together with human evolution and the concept of God as advanced extraterrestrial beings/civilisation).
(Excellent) - review by Eva
My advice is to set the English subtitles ON, because some characters speak with Texan accent, it is very hard to understand in some places.
The director shows great skills in understanding human psychology, his movies often appeal to a wide range of viwer, including this movie. Perfect acting, broad range of characters, lots of action, worth viewing despite being an old flick. Viva Stven Spielberg!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
It is not often that human sex life is depicted in the cinema in a natural way. Sex in movies is often twisted and shifted towards either porn or glamour or in some other artificial directions. In This film it was (most of the time, especially in the first part of the film) shown as fairly natural, real and NORMAL thing. Three stars for that., finally sex shown as a NORMAL thing! As for the rest, I did not like all the crowded and laud rock concerts shown, drug taking, etc. Piano music on the other hand was nice/OK. Over all it does deserve 3 stars in my view.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Very hard to follow as many scenes from the original French movie L'appartement have not been included. Also the ending is different. I much preferred the French original, had more magic something. This movie is only good for falling asleep. Because I gave the French film only 3 stars it is only logical I give this one 2 stars at most.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
DVD contains several extra features including some deleted scenes, "the making of", commentaries from both the director and the main actor (G.R.), etc.
Fascinating depiction of a genius actor/comedian but at the same time what a deeply troubled man he was; both distrustful and self-absorbed, ultimately self-destructive. He was full of contradictions, very likely suffered from both manic depression and alcohol and cocaine addictions. The hart problems might have contributed too, although to quote somebody's response to his heart attacks: "You have to have a a heart before you can have an attack". He was an unbearable monster to his children, four wives, numerous directors and other actors. Left a trail of misery in his personal life. but At the same time a genius of mimicry, stagecraft, etc. "A comedian of great gifts but but faulty judgment". Congratulations to G. Rush for his excellent impersonation of P.S.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
French adult film with English subtitles. Yet another "psycho- sexual drama" from this director. Combines the theme of menstruation with garden implements and a supposedly a homosexual man, what a mix! Simple things complicated unnecessarily. It did not speak to me at all, too removed from reality. Highly "poetic" and "arty" but not credible at all in my eyes. Not enjoyable. Reminds me of "Romance" by the same director (which I did not like either). Maybe the director hopes that "bad publicity” is still publicity and is churning films like this one just to provoke and stir? The only good thing I can say about this film are its visuals, namely a good looking naked lady (with a healthy looking, light complexion) reclining on bed, pretending that she is asleep. Also the images of a Spanish-like house with tall cactuses in front of it were nice. Two stars for that. But overall not worth viewing.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
French film with English subtitles. The landscapes of Provence are nice and acting of D. Auteuil is very good. The melodramatic story turns into a really good comedy towards the end (when the gender and the surname of the infant is known).
Not as good as Jean de Florette or Manon des Sources simply because the story is more conventional, bordering on a chick flick. It is a very "safe film", by which I mean you can probably watch it with your mother in law and old aunts and teenage daughters if you have any and most likely nobody will get offended or upset. Having said that, the world has changed a bit in the Western world (at least) and there is more gender equality this day, the society is slightly less patriarchal nowadays.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Old production (from 1986, that is 26 years ago!) and therefore quality seems poor by today's standards, both visual part of it and also sounds. Not satisfying modern expectations...Cinematography rather poor, and regarding the storyline, yes it is a bit silly. Overall deserves 2 stars at most.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Gloopy studio fodder for some "retarded gorillas", to use the expression from the film. Avoid (if not a gorilla...)
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Russian film with English subtitles. The extra features include an interesting interview with the director.
This film is a bit different from "The return", but there are some similarities as well, namely lots of silence and "air". I do like this director, but I thought "The return" was better.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Not an easy film. Difficult, challenging, experimental, slightly provocative and daring, and also slightly sad and drab and perhaps pedestrian, on purpose. Deserves 3 stars for trying to be different and for trying to turn away from consumeristic expectations of the viewers. Deals with topics of social alienation, depression, poverty and similar common themes in the modern world but not in the Hollywood type of movies that all end with a happy ending. But this film does not... I recommend it only for brave people interested in art house/experimental films. Not the best film for a relaxing evening with friends.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
German film with English subtitles. Extra features included such as "Making of", and also a short feature about digital/computer generated/altered images in the film, plus some deleted scenes, etc. This film has been categorized as "tragicomedy" but for me it was mostly a comedy. In particular I liked the "TV news programmes" created by the two boys/young men. In general I do like movies with a main theme of creating an artificial reality around a person who is not aware of what is really going on ("The Truman show" is an example). This film is one of a kind, whimsical and quirky. Music is very similar to music from "Amelie". Overall definitely worth viewing! Good fun. Has been rated at position 91 on the list by Empire magazine on the list of "100 best films ever" or something like that... (What is also interesting to me is that both director and one of the main characters are actually from West Germany.)
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Gloopy studio fodder for some "retarded gorillas", to use the expression from the film. Avoid (if not a gorilla...)
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Just to clarify: The film does NOT end well for the main characters, but perhaps they well deserve it, who knows...
It starts as a realistic tale of love and crime. Then it progresses into a "ghost story" and one can even say a "detective story". What I liked the most was great scenery, depicting passing of various seasons, in a great Japanese tradition of admiring nature. The second half of the movie reminded me the atmosphere of some of Shakespeare's plays (fog, darkness, spirits, etc.). Highly recommended overall, will appeal to many viewers, visually nice and sounds are weel matching the rest, smooth direction indeed; a classic!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
It starts from the following words:"Reality. You mean this is the real world?...I never thought of that..." There are other jewels as well: "You ever seen a man's brains? [...] And if all four...of these balls or brains is functioning...you are not a one-track mind; you are a four track mind. And you can...Now, what I was telling you..." Yet another quote: "That is what God is: “just happened"". About the sand: "The sand grows. It crawls...” About a jewel: "What does a jeweller look for?" About turkeys: "They are a smart bird; the smartest we got in this country." and "You hear a turkey gobble you forget all about diarrhoea and everything..."; "Turkey fever is in me". And yet another Vernon character/person says: "When I have a need I just pray for it.” "I thank God this morning for the "therefore" of Paul here in Romans.” Another "therefore experience", bless you Errol Morris!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
A Masterpiece or a Masquerade? Innovative post-modern musical or a bad joke? "Meretricious fakery" or yet something else?.. This film is not easy to rate, I am still not sure whether it deserve two stars or maybe instead 4 stars out of five from me...? Bjork is an amateur actress, which shows, especially in the first part of the movie. But at the same time she has plenty of charisma and creates a truly intriguing character. I do like her vocals and musical style. The film can be described as a collage of traditional musical (think "House of music", etc.) and a very dark morality tale/drama such as in "Short film about killing". The juxtaposition is on purpose shocking. Is very melodramatic, also on purpose. Both Bjork and the director have very strong and perhaps not very easy going personalities, which is documented in the extra feature. Overall highly intriguing and controversial! Both ordinary viewers and professional film critics are highly divided over this film! Of course, that is exactly what Lars von Trier loves: to provoke and shock and be controversial!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
French film with English subtitles; starring young Monica Bellucci. Indeed, quite an intricate plot (especially in the second half of the movie) that is woven into a pattern of past and present segments with a hard-to-guess ending. I give it only 3 stars because to my taste there were TOO MANY twists and turns in the plot, TOO MANY surprises and flashbacks, etc. Not only hard to follow but also after a while you simply do not care, every minute a new twist or turn, a "comedy or errors" (but not a real comedy, just a complex love story). Still, if you like Monica's looks and romantic stories then you are likely to enjoy it ...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
I agree: so pretentious; psychologicaly not very believable plot, poor acting of some characters, overall very disappointing, I expected so much more from a combination of famous actors and famous director... I give it two stars only (and that is for the Tuscan landscape plus the background music which is nice (including Mozart and also an interesting selection of more contemporary music)). But as for all the rest: forget it!
(Maybe) - review by Eva
It starts very "artsy-fartsy", with what I can describe as an experimental contemporary performance "art " rather than pornography, more specifically a naked man doing pottery while positioned horizontally, semi-suspended in a strange position, slightly dirty in the literal sense of the word; is the wet clay supposed to be "pornographic" or kinky perhaps? Who knows... Then there is the "Balkan" short feature, directed by Marina Abramovic; I do not agree at all with the previous reviewer that it is "Borat like", it is not a comedy at all, actually I can see tears flowing from the eyes of many actors for some reason... It is more like an ethnographic or pseudo-ethnographic documentary, or again some experimental folk-inspired performance . Highly unusual and in my view that was the best short feature on this DVD. After that it goes downhill, more into the actual pornography territory. Noe's short feature is about a man being alone with perhaps some sadistic edge, using a large inflatable doll, a gun and watching a porn -video instead of being with a real woman. This DVD (overall) leaves you disappointed.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Avoid; B grade movie; silly and boring!
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Wow, what a movie! Indeed, very powerful and hard hitting! I do agree to some extent that it could be considered a French/Argentinian (Gaspar Noe has an Argentinian background) answer to American "Taxi driver" BUT frankly, let me tell you this: I have fallen asleep when watching "Taxi driver", I often fall asleep when watching various movies, but not when watching THIS MOVIE! Simply a must see... Five stars! Wow, what a gritty and unforgettable movie!...Highly recommended, not for pleasure and "enjoyment" but for a shock value of something refreshingly honest and straightforward, a stream of conciousness from an angry butcher , maybe living in your neighbourhood....One of the best movies I have ever seen, no doubt about it in my mind!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Very much below expectations; one star out of five, at most. Also it was much shorter than I expected, I reckon it lasted twenty and something minutes only (instead of fifty, I do not understand why, some mistake?....) Overall I do not recommend it.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
This documentary will appeal to fans of Tarkovsky's highly poetic /metaphysical style (who was inspired by Bergman and Bresson). Spoken in Russian and/or Swedish, with English subtitles. Concentrates on the very last film of Tarkovsky ("Sacrifice"), produced on the coast of Sweden. It is a documentary about shooting that last film, as well as about Tarkovsky's aesthetics, philosophy, etc. Contains fragments of interviews, comments from Tarkovsky's widow, etc. Will not appeal to the general viewer, too cryptic.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
I agree with other reviewers; not bad at all!
Good 3D animation and quite educational as well and even with a pinch of humour and history; nice landscapes of New Zealand and Red Sea as a backdrop for animations. In particular I recommend it for young people fascinated with extinct creatures, they will love it (I mean young people), but parents may learn something as well!
Better than expected!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
If you like watching theatre plays then perhaps you will like this movie. I personally did not like the style of acting which is very theatre-like. Some scenes are clearly over-acted. Also the story line has some invented elements hard to believe. While the main character is based on a real person (more info/his biography available on Wikipedia) the "Pigmalion"-like part of the story (and also the record book listing names of friends attending the same school) seems both completely invented by the script writer. Also the whole talk about "six degrees" seem not very related to the story of the conman. So, overall I do not rate it very high, slightly irritating overall.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
It is a long movie (2 hours or so) with a not so happy ending, to say the least. Starts pleasantly, a young couple starting a seemingly happy life together, cosy home cooked meals together, working together painting outside walls of beach holiday houses in bright happy colours against the backdrop of sunny weather, love making, etc. But as movie goes on things gradually shift towards a mixture of hedonistic and reckless behaviours. You start liking them less and less and things become more and more painful to watch, especially towards the end...The issues of sanity and emotional stability (or rather lack of them) seem central to this film.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Consists of three parts: a chronological overview; teenage sex and finally about so called "kinky sex". Make sure you have a piece of paper and a pen handy when viewing so that you scribble titles of movies perhaps worth viewing in the future...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
I do not recommend this movie; so much blood, torturing, etc. What a waste of my time. The story of sacrificing one person for hypothetical sins of other persons does not make any sense to me.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
I do not recommend this movie; so much blood, torturing, etc. What a waste of my time. The story of sacrificing one person for hypothetical sins of other persons does not make any sense to me.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Typical (slightly quirky) movie from the Cohen brothers. Strong accents sometimes difficult to understand, I do regret I did not select English subtitles ON, and also I regret not seeing the original movie "The Ladykillers" before viewing this remake...Some very contrasting characters, good acting including from the cat and from the the painting on the wall, mild humour, over all deserves three stars. (Contains some extra feature which I still did not view but I intend to view it tonight.)
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
After viewing this movie you may wish to compare it to a short documentary made about 10 years earlier by Jean -Jacques Benineix, titled "Locked-in Syndrome", also available from QuickFlix. The documentary seems (even) more bleak than the feature film: the paint on the hospital walls is much paler and peeling, the main character looks worse (as he is really very sick and not an actor playing sick, of course), and he is being fed by a pump attached directly into his bowels or stomach. No ballet dancers jumping in the hospital's corridors, of course, etc...
Apparently the chances of getting this syndrome are comparable with chances of winning a major lottery prize. In any case, it is an important topic, reminds us of fragility and finite of our life. Will seek and read the book painstakingly written by the main character, will admire strength of his imagination and creativity.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
A bit boring; depicting a bunch of rather self-centred Americans. One of the females in the movie goes for a breast enlargement plastic surgery to improve her "baits"/baiting ability. I think one of the main motivations for doing what they are doing is continually testing their self-worth, scoring numerous partners to prove some point about themselves, perhaps...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
This DVD consists of two basically not related documentaries plus one short feature film (in the middle, least interesting from my viewpoint). I think I liked the last documentary the most, exploring modern Japanese society, focusing on male fans of erotic anime/manga and related topics, their lack of social skills or lack of interest in traditional "family values". Figurines of school girls become "idols". I guess the only feature linking all three features on this DVD is men being alone, living aside /apart from "normal society". You can find the broad definition of "Otaku" on Wikipedia, could be translated as "geek", etc. Worth viewing.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Another shocking documentary, very well done and not boring at all. Story of a whistleblower who was trying for 10 years bring attention to Madoff's pyramid scheme, at high personal (emotional) cost. Neither the financial media nor the government regulator were interested. Why? A good question...Highly recommended!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
This episode was the best; some surprises/family secrets are revealed. If you do not have time or inclination to view all 4 DVDs then definitely choose this one; provides a good summary of the entire series.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
This is the fourth instalment in a series, but can be viewed as a separate film as well because there are some fragments included from previous episodes. Well. things become interesting, a new generation is growing up, interesting charactyers in their own right. Unlike in the British series "Seven up" here the director is as interested in the new generation as she was in their mothers. I give it 5 stars; it is like riding a cinematographic time machine! Can not wait for the NEXT episode!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
This instalment is slightly less interesting than the other episodes in the series, in my opinion, it mostly deals with Kerry's wedding. Kerry is one year younger than other two girls. The episode also includes many fragments from previous two episodes. I give it only three stars. If you do not have time to view each and every episode of the series then perhaps you can skip this episode, you will not loose much.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
The first part "Smokes and lollies" is very short, only 25minutes or so. Do not expect strong analogies with the British "Seven up" series; this doco was made on much lower budget, with smaller crew and also the original objective of this film was very different. It was rather meant as a stand alone project, story about "liberated young females", that is why all three girls are similar in some sense to each other: they all smoke, chase boys and hate school (unlike in the British "Seven up" series where the characters vary both in terms of gender, social class, talents, etc. The director was/is only 11 years older than the characters she shows. All the characters are boy-crazy, rough, from working class background. They all want to have children. It is a good series to show to young gils as a warning about premature becoming a mother, how it affects the entire life... I do recommend it.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Michael Moore has done it again: highly informative, well edited documentary, trying to scratch a bit deeper, to find the truth about American psyche. Michael was a member of National Rifle Association himself , so he challenges and tests his own initial views when making this movie. Why is it so that the violent deaths in Canada are seldom and in the USA are frequent? Why Canadian TV shows very different news than their US counterparts?
One day before wacthing this doco I viewed another American documentary about the "Waco" tragedy (by a different director) and the theme of excessive use of firearms etc. was a common central feature of both movies. Michael More rightly points out that it is not just individual private people who commit violent acts but also government's bodies (such as FBI and ATF in case of Waco) and soldiers. I disagree with Gerd's comment below, the linkages made by Michael Moore are insightful and relevant, obvious it was lost on Gerd. You have got to see the forest, not just the trees. In any case I am glad I do not live "the American dream", thank you very much.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Very personal movie from Michael Moore; both his father and grandparents and most of his family worked for General Motors and Flint (Michigan) is his home town. At the time of making this movie Michael happened to be unemployed himself. Excellent editing, with stark juxtaposition of the lives of the rich against the lives of the new unemployed. This movie did not loose it's relevance at all; there are more and more American towns just like Flint, take for example Detroit. Shows gradual decline in standards of life for average Americans, their day-to-day life starts resembling Third World standards. Michael tries to galvanise America to do something, to stop the standards slip, but in vein, I think. In the meantime the rich get richer. A must see for average Janes and Jacks...
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Five stars for the director who put together a very well researched and documented evidence; compelling and lesser known facts that will make your head shake in strong disbelief at the madness and cruelty of ATF and FBI agencies/people. To say that they failed in their duty of care to innocent people inside, including many children and women and old folks is a strong understatement. It is like watching documentary about Nazis' holocaust, really. Because it was that horrific and mad. Unbelievable madness of people who were standing at the outside of the compound. The fire brigade was not allowed to interfere. And there was no punishment for any of ATF, FBI people nor people above them. I agree with comments of Greta B. and Tom C., below. Shocking documentary! Testosteron driven madness and cruelty.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Invite your friends for a silly evening watching this classic comedy full of spoofs, puns, parody. It has got it all: a dance, a song, a romance, a dose of suspense/airport disaster and even a juggling scene. Features distinct fashion and interior designs from the seventies, wall tiles in shades of avocado, mirror disco ball, brown curtains, etc. How can you resist it?
I smiled several times, it was that hilarious. DVD Contains an extra feature: commentary by the directors; you learn a bit from it and at second watching you notice some moments/gags you missed at the first watching, it is that densy packed with humour. Highly recommended silly comedy classic. 4 stars at least.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
In French, Polish and even has a few words spoken in Russian, with English subtitles. Contains several interesting extra features about "making of" the film, interviews with the French actress and producer, comments from the director about his style/practical approach to movie making, etc. If you liked this movie I also reccommend to you "Short film about love", by the same director, has some similar themes such as viewing the beautiful object of desire (a women) from far away using binoculars, viewing her life by watching her window and telephoning her, etc. Both movies have very good acting. I liked this movie (White) much better than "Double life of Veronique". However, the story is a bit far fetched; why for instance such a beautiful, classy women would marry him in the first place? Also the character of Karol is a bit hard to belief in, on the one hand so senstisive "pathetic" dreamer and then being able to be really tough "cut-your-throat" businessman, almost a gangster able to plot cruel revenge? Also the sub-story of assasination on request was not really fitting the rest of the movie, unnecessary and strange. But overall 4 stars because it is memorable and highly lyrical.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Reminds me more recent similar documentary "Inside Job"; it is becoming such a familiar sad "old story" of unchecked human greed... Another documentary about lack of accountability, clear fraud, unhealthy links between politics and businesses, undisclosed conflicts of interests, etc. Also the really bad part is that not much has changed since then. It has happened again in 2008 and something similar will happen again and again. The rich will be richer and the poor will be poorer. The democratic system can fail us (and will fail us again and again) in the face of big money pushing own deregulation agendas very forcefully; the poor do not have that power.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Consists of two parts, the first one is very short (10 minutes or so) takes place in a hotel in Paris and fans of Natalie Portman will not be disappointed. The rest takes place on a train in India, mostly. There is also one extra feature about "making of" the film. Overall style over substance. Yes it is highly colourful (the saris, garlands of flowers, painted train (both inside and outside), etc. But it is aimless and pointless; flat fluff . The characters are boring, self-centred, odd, pathetic, damaged characters; they do not trust each other for very good reason, they are simply not trustworthy, not likeable. Garbage, thin story, uninspiring. The music has a strong presence, perhaps too strong, as somebody commented maybe the loud music is trying to fill out the void in the story and in the characters? Two stars for taste of India (colourful interior designs of the train, saris and garlands of flowers). But better order some informative documentary about India instead of watching the slow and boring long plot of this film....
(Maybe) - review by Eva
No artistic merit whatsoever. Do not waste your time nor money on this one. (If only you could give it some negative stars...), a total waste of time really.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Do not waste your time nor money on this one. (If only you could give it some negative stars...)
And the three dimensional effect is a very mild one, barely noticeable at all. Overall a total waste of time.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
French movie with English subtitles, has been rated as R, but arguably could have been rated as X or refused from classification (NC)/Not Rated. I do not have problems with rating, rather with credibility, as several people have already mentioned in their comments. This film is highly poetic, as many French movies often are, which can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on one's taste. It did not speak to me, too removed from reality, in my view... Was she a nymphomaniac? Was her boyfriend a homosexual perhaps? Not clear...
Reminds me of the following films (all of which could be fairly described as psycho-sexual dramas): "Piano Teacher"; "Belle de jour"; "The ages of Lulu"; “Shame"; and "Intimacy". This movie is not the best among these titles...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Very long movie (nearly 3 hours.) Based on a classic novel, which apparently was based on some real character... Combines several themes including parental love and ambition for upward mobility, selfishness, manipulation, etc. I liked the sentence at the very end along the lines: all characters depicted in this movie are long gone/dead by now and they are now all equal to each other...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Very long movie (nearly 3 hours.) Based on a classic novel. Combines several themes including parental love and ambition for upward mobility, selfishness, etc. I liked the sentence at the very end along the lines: all characters depicted in this movie are long gone/dead by now and they are now all equal to each other.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
A very well done and interesting story and good acting. Story based on a semi-autobiographical novel, takes place before World War II in Saigon, is not just a love story but also well depicted dysfunctional family with mental issues and drug addiction issues, etc. Add to this issues of cultural prejudice, differences in wealth, etc. Nice shots of Mekong river, colonial streets and lifestyles, although transfer quality to DVD not ideal. I would give it 5 stars if it was in Blu-ray.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Well deserved 4 stars, nice cinematography/landscapes, passionate classical violin music and thought provoking storyline; the ending can be interpreted as either good or bad, depending on your own values! it is (also) about upward mobility, money, new Chinese values/global culture as well as about relationships between the teenager and his "significant others". About "provincial "/rather pedestrian/poor looks and behaviours versus "modern" and "global" and more "polished", nouvelle rich and corrupt versus honest and simple folks, etc. The story is a bit melodramatic and far fetched but overall an interesting movie, for sure! It was in the official distribution in China, so it is also interesting to see what is nowadays officially allowed in China. "New cultural revolution", in some sense, very different from the previous one!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Good for children both small and big! Liked the songs in the second half of the movie and the landscapes/animation. Good for the entire family! (Note:This movie is also available in blue ray and even in a 3D format, go for it if you can!)
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Good for children both small and big! Liked the songs in the second half of the movie and the landscapes/animation. Good for the entire family!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Good for children both small and big! Liked the songs in the second half of the movie and the landscapes/animation. Good for the entire family!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Good review from Simon Miraudo, available here on QuickFix (see under non-blue ray version). He gave it 3.5 stars.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Good review from Simon Miraudo, available here on QuickFix. He gave it 3.5 stars.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Main character seems very cold /poker-faced; not a very convincing story in light of her broom-stick-like, indifferent acting. Of some historical interest, I would say. The world has changed since then...
I much preferred "Obscure object of desire" by the same director, showing much more self assured/assertive type of female personality. And yes, DVD has both English dub and French with subtitles, to choose from.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Hindu(?) language film with English subtitles . Most children characters in this film were played by actual street children. Contains some extra features including documentary on some of children actors as they live 20 years after acting in the movie. Interesting, showing a very different world from ours...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Another weird movie from the Cohen brothers. The main characters not very likeable in my view, lazy slackers with a sense of entitlement, spending plenty of their free time on bowling , drinking and socialising. Very different and quite opposite to the main character of "A Serious man". I much preferred "A Serious man". Could not identify with dudes in this film, maybe I am not laid back enough to enjoy it. maybe it takes a very relaxed viewer to appreciate it...
I do not even consider it to be a comedy. Just weird...Three stars for originality.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Another weird movie from the Cohen brothers. The main characters not very likeable in my view, lazy slackers with a sense of entitlement, spending plenty of their free time on bowling , drinking and socialising. Very different and quite opposite to the main character of "A Serious man". I much preferred "A Serious man". Could not identify with dudes in this film, maybe I am not laid back enough to enjoy it. maybe it takes a very relaxed viewer to appreciate it...
I do not even consider it to be a comedy. Just weird...Three stars for originality.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Another weird movie from the Cohen brothers. The main characters not very likeable in my view, lazy slackers with a sense of entitlement, spending plenty of their free time on bowling , drinking and socialising. Very different and quite opposite to the main character of "Serious man". I much preferred "Serious man". Could not identify with dudes in this film.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Hear, hear! The naked truth. Watched it twice (second time with the director's comments switched on). Contains also some extra features (deleted fragments). The most important chapters are the last ones: about lack of accountability for clear fraud, unhealthy links between politics and lobbyists, undisclosed conflicts of interests, etc. Also the really bad part is that not much has changed since 2008 and something similar will happen again and again. The rich will be richer and the poor will be poorer. The democratic system can fail us in the face of big money pushing own agendas very forcefully; the poor do not have that power. Obama's administration did not do much to prevent similar problems in the future, on the contrary, they reappointed some people who were co-responsible...
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Polish and French language film with English subtitles. Style over substance. The main actress is pretty and the light used for most scenes is yellowish-green. The music is very evocative. But over all I rank it very low; the plot is nonsensical in my view. Not my piece of cake. I feel I have wasted my time watching what I consider pretentious artsy-fartsy attempt...
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Based on a popular, dark novel. Contains some extra features (including "The making of...". Can be descibed as Kasper Hauser meets "Amadeus" and "Scent of a woman"....What I did not like was magical realism at the end of the movie. Entertaining, for sure, but not a real "masterpiece". Apparently this movie was being sold with samples of several fragrances to smell as you view the movie. The first smell (I guess) would be smell of old fish...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Yes, an amazing true story and what an excellend New Zealand movie. Good acting and directing, period costumes, cars, interior designs, etc. Highly recommended!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
(This movie is now also available in a blue ray version from Quickflix.)
Quirky story with gentle references to "Odyssey" (sirens, one-eyed "Cyclops", etc.)
My tip is to set the English captions early on in order to understand the American southern dialects a bit better...
Not for everybody because is so quirky and idiosyncratic. (Did not watch it till the end, sorry, maybe this movie was a bit too clever for me...?))
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Quirky story with gentle references to "Odyssey" (sirens, one-eyed "cyclop", etc.) My tip is to set the English subtitles on in order to understand the American dialect a bit better...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Not for those that are not fans; I agree with the review by Roger Ebert (available on the Internet) who gave this movie only 2 and a half stars.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
I give it only 2 and a half stars. It is a comedy about having a serious cancer plus some elements of romantic comedy, for sugar coating and for broader appeal. Of course there is a happy ending, what else can one expect from an American movie... The main character can move normally despite having a serious spinal cancer. Even after the major surgery where they supposedly removed lots of tissue from his hips and spine, etc. he still can move as if nothing serious was going on. The only signs of major surgery is a nit vertical wound along his spine. There is also one mild scene of vomiting and one scene of shaving his hair (but no signs of loosing hair before that shaving scene). No real loosing weight is shown, instead they merely show the image of the scales suggesting that he is loosing weight, and so on and on. In other words the whole cancer is depicted as if it was a mild flue. It actually can be offensive for people who suffered (or had a close family member who suffered) a real serious health problems like for instance a devastating cancer. The movie shows a funeral of some other cancer patient but the main character of course goes on to live happy ever after....American movies are so predictable, the plot serves maximasing the profits, the audience wants a happy ending both health wise and regarding the romantic story. The audience gets what the audience wants. End of story.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
I give it only 2 and a half stars. It is a comedy about having a serious cancer plus some elements of romantic comedy, for sugar coating and for broader appeal. Of course there is a happy ending, what else can one expect from an American movie... The main character can move normally despite having a serious spinal cancer. Even after the major surgery where they supposedly removed lots of tissue from his hips and spine, etc. he still can move as if nothing serious was going on. The only signs of major surgery is a nit vertical wound along his spine. There is also one mild scene of vomiting and one scene of shaving his hair (but no signs of loosing hair before that shaving scene). No real loosing weight is shown, instead they merely show the image of the scales suggesting that he is loosing weight, and so on and on. In other words the whole cancer is depicted as if it was a mild flue. It actually can be offensive for people who suffered (or had a close family member who suffered) a real serious health problems like for instance a devastating cancer. The movie shows a funeral of some other cancer patient but the main character of course goes on to live happy ever after....American movies are so predictable, the plot serves maximasing the profits, the audience wants a happy ending both health wise and regarding the romantic story. The audience gets what the audience wants. End of story.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
One can select either an extended version or normal version. I have selected the extended version, but it was long and boring. Not for those that are not fans...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
It is hard to give just one rating, as each story was a bit different. My favourite one was the seductive conversation of a writer to a sex worker.
My main complain is that there were too many glamorous looking women, it is very typical for American movies that they cast such pretty faces, in reality most women do not look like that; In "Paris , je t'aime" I did not notice that discrepancy so much, not to such a degree. Also, I think, stories in "Paris , je t'aime" were perhaps more "warm" and poetic and humanistic. I could understand "Paris , je t'aime" much better than this film, I did not relate to these characters/this culture as much, there was some coldness to this movie. See also the extra features (2 short films excluded from the final version, apparently "not good enough" or not matching the rest maybe...) Overall not very bad.
If you like short movies about people you may like it, or at least some of them.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
I agree with Susan, a different look at the natural beauty of Kenya and Tanzania. And If you can see it in a Blue ray version (also available from QickFlix) then it would be even more worth watching!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Shows great natural nature of Kenya and Tanzania; new and interesting, stunning mountain scenery, sunbirds and other birds, interesting flowers and plenty of interesting animals, including rare apes, lions in the rain, monkeys sleeping in the caves, etc; various hunting scenes, local Masai people ingeniously collecting water condensed from volcanic steam, and much more! A must see.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Reminds me a bit "9 and 1/2 weeks" but not nearly as good; Poor acting, did not like it over all. I give it two stars only for good drumming and dancing scenes.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
German language movie (English subtitles available). Would be OK as a TV movie. Not great.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
So much fighting in it; was there any fighting at al in Dante's poem? I do not think so... What a waste of my time...
For lovers of stupid computer games only; not for lovers of intelligent cinema...
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
So much fighting in it; was there any fighting at al in Dante's poem? I do not think so. What a waste of my time...
For lovers of stupid computer games only; not for lovers of intelligent cinema...
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
I have seen it previously in VHS format but it is best to see it in blue ray format, if you can... it is 20 years old but still impressive both in terms of music and images. A must see (preferably in blue ray version/ormat if available to you....).
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Look, I agree with the reviewers below who gave it 4 or 5 stars. I have seen it previously in VHS format but it simply does not compare with the latest version in a blue ray and with decent sound quality, etc. View it in Blue ray if you can. it is 20 years old but still impressive both in terms of music and images. A must see.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
French movie with English subtitles. Not much action, lots of dialogues (about art (including modern art), growing vegetables, the weather, etc). Many scenes are recorded in charming French countryside, in summer. There are two main characters: an artist/ Painter (=Dauber) and a retired railways worker who is now a Gardener. Charming, warm and humanistic movie. The best conversation of the movie (in my opinion) is at about 1/3 of the film, a criticism of snobbish modern art articulated using the expressions coined by the Gardener.
A gentle film about beauty in simplicity in life.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
In general I am not a big fan of romantic comedies but this one has some bonuses/additional elements such politics, "science versus faith" arguments, Yemen, etc. Therefore three stars and not two. But would not watch it again. The love story very boring. But Highly recommended if you are into fly fishing, for sure! A light movie.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Stand-up American comedian, who was more popular in Great Britain than in his native USA, quite possibly. Some of the topics covered in this DVD are drinking, smoking, drug use, consumerism, advertising, etc. Contains some extra features (such as recordings of other /similar performances from his early carrier, biography, etc.) If you are not familiar with this artist at all then perhaps start with some other DVD (from his slightly later period). He died at 32 or so, from adverse effercts of anti-cancer therapy. Can be described as edgy and confrontational.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
In general I am not a big fan of romantic comedies but this one has additional elements such politics, "science versus faith" arguments, Yemen, etc. Therefore three stars and not two. But would not watch it again. The love story very boring.
But Highly recommended if you are into fly fishing, for sure!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
In Spanish, Catalonian and French, with English subtitles. Features Flamenco singing and Edith Piath's singing. Whimsical, quirky and with some gentle humour and warm/good ending. Contains an extra feature (interview with the director). If you like a touch of fantasy and warmth of the movies by other well known Spanish director Almadovar, you may also fancy this gentle film.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Good Australian flick! Starts as an adventure story but very quickly becomes a real HORROR movie! It is good to know that the real events by which the script was inspired were not nearly as horrible as the story depicted in this movie. Do not watch it if you suffer from serious claustrophobia. Some scenes were shot in the Gambier cave system, South Australia; other scenes have been recorded in a film studio in Queensland. Worth viewing if you do not mind very scary adventure stories/horror. (I do not give it 5 stars because indeed, the plot was a bit (or frankly much more than just "a bit"!) over the top...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Good Australian flick! Starts as an adventure story but very quickly becomes a real HORROR movie! It is good to know that the real events by which the script was inspired were not nearly as horrible as the story depicted in this movie. Do not watch it if you suffer from serious claustrophobia. Some scenes were shot in the Gambier cave system, South Australia; other scenes have been recorded in a film studio in Queensland. Worth viewing if you do not mind very scary adventure stories/horror.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Good Australian flick! Starts as an adventure story but very quickly becomes a real HORROR movie! It is good to know that the real events by which the script was inspired were not nearly as horrible as the story depicted in this movie. Do not watch it if you suffer from sever claustrophobia. Some scenes were shot in the Gambier cave system, South Australia; other scenes have been recorded in a film studio in Queensland. Worth viewing if you do not mind very scary adventure stories/horror.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Superficial, populist and lacking focus. Jumps from topic to topic, such as attributing longevity of people of Okinawa to drinking sake then talking to Dalai Lama about trivialities of infants suckling milk from mother's breast , then to a crazy "gorilla run", then some positive public speaker talking to school children, then family members of victims of Japanese death from overwork are singing in public, etc. This film is clearly lacking focus, in my opinion. In my opinion there are many hormones and neurotransmitters and neuromodulators at complex play (oxytocins, endorphins, dopamine, and many others), but this film lumps everything into one bag, trumpeting the good things/influences and ignoring the bad. It is simply not that simple, I am afraid to say...
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Well observed scenes from lives of insects, snails and plants, with well matching music, sometimes humorous (for instance opera music as a background for copulating snails, etc!). I agree with other commentators that not having a commentary puts this film into a completely different category, more artistic and less educational, I would say. Something certainly different.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
An American classic. While the movie itself is good, I do not like the culture depicted, where everybody can purchase guns with all the tragic consequences that follow... Interestingly (and how ironic!) a few years later or so there was an attempt on president Ronald Raegan's life, inspired exactly and directly by the story and characters depcted in this film... (Read about it on Wikipedia if interested (under "Taxi driver film"). What a crazy world...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
An American classic. While the movie itself is good, I do not like the culture depicted, where everybody can purchase guns with all the tragic consequences that follow... Interestingly (and how ironic!) a few years later or so there was an attempt on president Ronald Raegan's life, inspired exactly and directly by the story and characters depcted in this film... (Read about it on Wikipedia if interested (under "Taxi driver film").
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
The music was great (Bach, etc.) Not an easy movie; reminds me of "Intimacy", similar subject matter, but emotionally even colder .... At one point in the movie I started to believe that incest is the main subject matter of this movie. Later on it appeared that not; the movie is mostly about a man who is seemingly devoid of warm or romantic human emotions. He is into mechanical sex without commitments. Not a nice man, but I suppose there are millions of men like him on this planet. At least he has a job of some sort and an apartment, so can be seen as a responsible man, unlike his wayward sister...Not easy to rank this movie; not heart-warming/uplifting sort of story, and not a story at all, rather a character study...I give it 3 stars (mid rank) only because I am not sure how many stars I "should " give it; but music was nice, at least!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Not an easy movie; reminds me of "Intimacy", similar subject matter, but emotionally even colder .... At one point in the movie I started to believe that incest is the subject matter of this movie. Later on it appeared that the movie is mostly about a man who is seemingly devoid of warm or romantic human emotions. He is into mechanical sex without commitments. Not a nice man, but I suppose there are millions of men like him on this planet. At least he has a job of some sort and an apartment, so can be seen as a responsible man, unlike his wayward sister. Not easy to rank this movie; not heart-warming/uplifting sort of story...I give it 3 stars (mid rank) only because I am not sure how many stars I "should " give it; I am that unsure!...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Not exactly what I expected; I expected a nature documentary but instead it was about the logistics of the trip/stay and also about how did they try to entertain themselves=spend their free time, etc. Self indulgent movie. Easy to fall asleep when watching it. Avoid.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Does not matter that yes, it is a bit dated and perhaps slightly overly romantic; what matters is the story, it's historical value, ethnographic values, and also not too bad cinematography (was filmed on location, near Mataranka). Interesting music (watch the extra feature for some explanation regarding music composed and played). PLUS: Contains an excellent extra feature, namely a documentary (titled "Walkabout", but do not confuse it with the later feature film, not related to it) about a trip by camels in Central Australia, depicting lives of the local Aborigines, including children at play (and at work, collecting food, etc.). The relationship between men and women was an interesting aspect of both movies on that disc. Both movies on the disc are highly recommended by me (for educational purposes, at least).
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
I agree that the original 'Nine Queens' was/is better if you can handle subtitles, especially the female character was so much more interesting and in style in the original Nine Queens'...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
An American classic. Contains some extra features (interviews with actors and directors). Despite lots of blood, gun violence, corpses, etc. I give it 4 stars because it also has some gentle and humane side, namely the character of the policewoman and her husband are very warm characters.
They should not state that it was based on a true story if it was not, I feel confused about that detail. In any case, worth seeing once, at least.... Lead to some urban legends (search for "Takako Konishi" on the Internet, for instance, the urban legend says the Japanese woman (she) went to look for the one million dollars in the suitcase abandoned under the snow, as depicted in the movie Fargo...Eventually she died).
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Contains some extra feature, explaining what most probably went wrong. The story can be interpreted as a story of wishful thinking both on Andrew's and on his wife's part. Not enough testing done on the new design of the capsule (called "Casper"), new brave design plus harsh weather/powerful nature has cost him his life...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
German film with English subtitles, contains some extra feature.
Not as good as expected, and not heart warming, not uplifting (as I hoped it to be, the title "Soul Kitchen" is just a name, do not have big hopes for the movie bases on that name..). Not funny enough for a comedy and not dramatic enough for a drama. Rather ordinary story line; mildly happy ending, etc. Also not much about food itself or food preparation. Rather it deals with health problems, tax office problems, girlfriend problem, brother's problems, con man trying to buy the place, tenant not paying his rent, trying to maintain resilience in the face of numerous but quite ordinary life obstacles etc.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Not as good as expected, for several reasons: firstly, there is some corporate advertising at the very beginning and possibly also some product placement throughout the film. Secondly, not enough 3D scenes showing white water rafting and flying through the canyon. Instead you get self absorbed family stories, images of his daughter and ranger's daughter, etc. Thirdly, it is not focused enough on one particular subject, at the end they sort of advocate access to clean drinkable water in Africa, well, that is not sticking to the main topic of the movie, in my opinion, it is a slightly separate issue...Another problem issue with this movie is the way the meteorological /rainfall data are presented: they show projected rainfall in a misleading way, projected data should be shown as a dotted line or dashed line, etc, to make it clear this are projections, instead they show it together with past data on the same graph and in the same line, even faking the noise over that projected curve. That is just plain pure manipulation, eroding my trust into whoever made and sponsored that movie. Will never view it again, for sure!
(Maybe) - review by Eva
In the spirit of the original Fantasia. I eagerly await the next version, and it has got to be in 3D! Will it be Fantasia 2015 or Fantasia 2020, perhaps?...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Contains a very nice bonus in the "extra features" namely a short (6 minutes) animation titled "Destino" (read about it on Wikipedia) as well as an interesting documentary about collaboration between Salvador Dali (the famous Spanish surrealistic painter/artist) and Walt Disney. Did you know that Dali has been working in Disney's studios for several months? The resulting 17 seconds of animated film has been included into "Destino". Highly recommended for all people interested in art and/or music!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
In Spanish language, with English subtitles. Clever morality tale about a "good conman" interacting with a "bad conman" (and innocent people as well) ; story is both educational and entertaining, with plenty of surprises, till the very end. There is info about this movie on Wikipedia. It was awarded many international awards, was highly profitable and was remade into other languages. The title comes from a rare and highly valuable set of nine post stamps that features in the plot of the movie. I agree with mostly positive comments from viewers (see below). Looking forward to more movies by this director!
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Chinese movie with English subtitles. Charming and highly humanistic, lushly emerald green landscapes of Hunan in the background (rice fields, bamboo forests, moss on the rocks, etc.) Gentle music and sounds of nature in the background (cicadas, birds, etc.). A nice antidote to too many American movies showing greed, blood, gun violence, etc; back to simplicity; highly recommended to anybody.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
In Polish, with English subtitles. May be of interest to people who like theatre -style performances/plays, also of interest to naturists or/and to Polish native speakers. Something a bit experimental. (Very low budget production, that is for sure.)
I give it 3 stars for bravery.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
This movie is also available from Quickflix in a 3D version.
For young boys with some interest in mechanical engineering, perhaps; not for me. (I note appearance of Sacha Baron Cohen as a policeman with a dog; what sort of accent is he pretending to have, German? German policeman in Paris?) In any case, not my cup of tea, that is for sure.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
For young boys with some interest in mechanical engineering, perhaps; not for me. (I note appearance of Sacha Baron Cohen as a policeman with a dog; what sort of accent is he pretending to have, German? German policeman in Paris?) In any case, not my cup of tea, that is for sure.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Yes, the ending does not make sense whatsoever; just stop watching it 5-10 minutes before the end, and you will not loose anything, on the contrary, this movie is much better without that stupid, cruel, unreasonable ending...
(Maybe) - review by Eva
(This movie is also available in a blue ray version.) Lots of blood, gun violence, corpses, wounds, etc. Relentless chasing/escaping and killing. Not my cup of tea. Takes place in Texas and in Mexico. Southern American accents are a challenge for me to understand, perhaps could be watched with English subtitles on, for that reason. The arid landscapes complement the harsh story. Surround sound system option available. Reminds me of "Simple Blood simple" by the same two directors.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Lots of blood, gun violence, corpses, wounds, etc. Relentless chasing/escaping and killing. Not my cup of tea. Takes place in Texas and in Mexico. Southern American accents are a challenge for me to understand, perhaps could be watched with English subtitles on, for that reason. The arid landscapes complement the harsh story. Surround sound system option available. Reminds me of "Blood simple" by the same two directors.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Spanish drama (bordering on comedy, a bit), with English subtitles. Yes, typical Almodovar, with mostly female characters, depicting ordinary people but slightly quirky on the edges. Penelope Cruz is easy on the eyes, as always.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Spanish drama with English subtitles. I agree with some reviewers' comments below who said it was disappointing and not thrilling enough. On a boring side, for me. Also I would never categorise it as a "comedy", "foreign drama", rather.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Nonsensical premise plus sentimental execution equals my wasted time.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
I am not giving this movie any rating, I have been sleeping for most of the time. When I woke up it was almost the end and the story got really really violent, criminal even... There was a rescue for the main character and hopefully a big lesson to learn for her; she went too far in her experimentations; she was not careful and at the end punished for her lack of caution and common sense...Strictly for adults only.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Foreign languages movie, with English subtitles. Will interest speakers of Hebrew and/or Arabic (there are also small passages in Russian and a bit of English spoken). I recommend it only to viewers interested in that region of the world (occupied Palestinian territories; outskirts of Israel, etc). This is NOT a heart warming/uplifting movie at all. Shows barbed wires; tall concrete walls, etc. Even the lemon trees are suffering, not watered due to the political turmoil... Appears to be a very realistic depiction of what is daily life like out there...Shows the political propaganda machine; the court system, the social and cultural context, poverty, violence, etc. Sad story and not much hope for real improvement of the situation, things will probably will only get even worse, sad but true, I think...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Fantastic! Great script, cast/acting, special effects, music, highly original, perfectly executed on several levels. Worth viewing more than once. One of the best American feature films of the 21st century, in my opinion! I put it onto my list of most favourite 10 movies ever! This movie was made on a "low budget " of only 13 million dollars, but produced over 300 million dollars, so was extremely successful, in other words; the director will become "Steven Spielberg" of this century if he continues producing great movies like this one...Highly recommended to most viewers.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
I completely agree with Simon Miraudo's review (see above). I also LOVE this movie. (But order and watch it in Blue ray version, if you can!)
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Japanese movie, recorded in China (in Yunan province, I believe); with English subtitles. Surround sound option available. I give it only 2 stars because technical quality of images was low, for whatever reason. Contains some violence in first part of the movie (one character is a Japanese mafia man). Over all, worse than expected.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Mixed feelings about this one; typical SBS "pop-science"; some theories of interest, for instance an assumption that autism and Asperger's may be a symptom of "too much/excessive brain plasticity". Contains an extra feature, repeating some elements of the main documentary. It was not convincing enough because did not show "control groups" using other approaches to therapy, such as perhaps playing chess, or various other exercises and possibilities. So, yes, for sure one can teach an old dog some new tricks, I do not doubt that is possible, but the real questions are at what cost and what are the best/most effective ways. Having said that, will be of interest to many people dealing with various mental disorders in their families. Many people can benefit from viewing it and trying to change same elements of their daily routines.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Can be described as British Arthouse, I suppose. Gritty, stark and highly existential. This is NOT a feel-good "chick flick"... Not for everybody, that is for sure! A memorable, sad experience.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Only now I notice that this documentary is available on blue ray as well, what a great BBC documentary!
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Another great BBC nature documentary! This part mostly concentrates on various aspects of volcanic activity and on fishing, great original footage, if you love nature and/or fish(ing) this is something for you! Also to do with evolution on isolate islands and how it can be easily disrupted by humans. Education combined with high quality entertainment
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Very shallow and superficial; what a waste of my time! Only for real silly "chick flicks" fans, not my cup of tea, for sure! Will never watch it again, that is for sure!
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Spanish movie with English subtitles; too chaotic and crazy for my taste; contains one supernatural scene just to make it even more weird, I guess; not my type of cinema; crazy dysfunctional family in a Spanish urban jungle; I am only sorry for the innocent green lizard, trapped in the human super crazy world...
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Not bad at all, contains some original, new footage. There are two separate parts. Worth a look. Requested second part to view soon.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Korean movie with English subtitles, but not much spoken text, you will be surprised to see how much can be conveyed with images only and without words. Contains several extra features. Some scenes are painful to watch indeed but over all highly original and visually stunning.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
This is part 2. (I missed part one...)
(Excellent) - review by Eva
3D nature documentary. Variety of underwater colours and shapes. Almost like being there yourself...
(Excellent) - review by Eva
With English subtitles. Contains some extra features, including an interview with the director. Depicts working conditions in Ukraine (illegal underground coal mining), Indonesia (collecting sulphur around volcanos), Nigeria (outdoors slaughterhouse) , Pakistan (converting large ships into scrap metal), China's smelter and closed down German industrial site converted into a museum of sorts.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
3D nature documentary. Shows not only sharks but also some other species (turtles, jellyfish, schools of fish, etc. Worth a look.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
The storyline is very hard to believe; creates a completely wrong impression for future generations of what Nazis' concentration camps have been all about. I can not support this movie at all, very politically incorrect, feels so wrong and simply not true at all; what was it based on, any real story behind it? I doubt very strongly. Zero stars from me. Despicable junk, indeed.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Documentary in Spanish, with English subtitles. Contains some extra features. elBuli does not exist anymore, after being named THE WORLD's BEST RESTAURANT for FIVE TIMES, it closed in July 2011. (Possibly the Global Financial Crisis has contributed to closing it). Ferran Adria has opened a cheaper tapas bar called "Tickets" (one can book online from 60 days in advance) plus a night cocktail bar "41", both in Barcelona. As for the location where elBuli existed for several years, (a two-hour drive north from Barcelona, in the Catalan seaside town of Roses) there will be a foundation dedicated to culinary creativity, opening in 2014.
As for the documentary, it shows the creative process, taking place for many months in advance of serving the dishes to customers. Relentless trial and error of numerous ingredients, cooking methods, combinations of flavours and imaginative and surprising ways of serving food, sometimes as simple (?) as a layer of frozen water, sprinkled with herbs and spices; a drink of water with a layer of oil; pasta-less ravioli, etc. Experimentation and artistic expression taken to the extreme. Most chefs in the movie are males. Curious subject matter.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
French movie with English subtitles; surround system option available. Good, original storyline, not predictable and well balanced; good acting, believable characters. something different, worth a look.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Chinese movie with English subtitles. Contains some extra features (interviews with the actors and the director). Dark movie, with scenes of violence and brutality. On the other hand the costumes are a pleasure to look at: silk dresses, diamond rings, hats, nylon stockings with a seam, etc. Beauty and brutality, in one movie.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Watched only the first two obstacles; too experimental for me; cinematographic exercises for the sake of mere exercises; who cares? All what I have learnt is that they drink vodka before noon and eat nice caviare with bone spoons (not metal spoons!) and smoke good cigars. Good for them.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
I agree, not realistic enough, calculated to please the crowds with beautiful /"cool" people (the driver wearing dark sunglasses even when it is a rainy weather, just for that extra style) plus a good dose of cuteness (a piglet, a puppy, etc.). Juliette Binoche plays a "naive" cutie too. Can smell Hollywood style undercurrents. Three starts only from me, overall not convincing to me, with undisputed superficial beauty.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Low budget, B-grade movie. Takes place in Adelaide, I think. Not very funny. Would make an OK TV series, along Kath and Kim, Pizza and similar shows. Shows differences between stereotypical men and women, as well as differences in lifestyles of the rich and poor Australians. Only one star from me.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
3D movie. Chapter on Sea-cows from Florida is the best (clear, highly transparent water and camera very close to the animals). Also some close-ups of the whales were good.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
Dutch movie with English subtitles (you have to select the language of subtitles). A blond gold digger and a bunch of bogans.
Contains some extra feature, namely commentary from the director.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Part two of Jean de Florette. Almost equally good as part one. Acting and landscapes and the story, all good. Highly recommended! What a pity it is not in a blue ray format.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
The cloud forest is the best part of the movie, too bad it is not in a blue ray...
The "love" scenes are a bit cheesy indeed, as pointed out by Bron, below.
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Charming French movie with English subtitles; about farming in harsh conditions in Provence; shows harsh competition for natural resources (water) and ambitions "to make it", struggling to succeed. Will interest farmers, vegetable and flower growers, etc. But also the general viewing public. The images and story will stay in your memory for quite some time. This is part one. The next one is "Manon des Sources".
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
After viewing the first disk I can say it feels like comedy or a movie for teenagers. Not a very "serious" movie. Shows lives of a Catholic priest in Japan and his son and two women in their lives who accidentally are close relatives (mother and daughter). Will view the second disk soon.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
Good documentary, even I could say very good indeed. Takes place in four different megacities, with English subtitles (except for New York), showing how ordinary or poor people try to make a living every day, and what motivates them. Classified as R (18 ), because it contains depiction of Mexican prostitutes/strippers. Slice of real life, gives you a good perspective onto your own life.
(Not to be missed!) - review by Eva
Arty-farty nonsense. Psychic powers meet depression meet global catastrophe. Watching this movie is like having a stone in your shoe, indeed. I often agree with Simon Miraudo's reviews/ranking, but not on this one.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
Arty-farty nonsense. Psychic powers meet depression meet global catastrophe. Watching this movie is like having a stone in your shoe, indeed.
(Maybe) - review by Eva
German movie with English subtitles; better known by it's subtitle: "Children from the Zoo Station" (i.e. subway station "Zoo").
Highly realistic depiction of falling into serious and really ugly heroin addiction. Also shows transition from childhood into adulthood. Takes place in Western Berlin in the early eighties [last century]. Should be viewed by parents of teenagers as a stark warning. Something to discuss with your children, the dangers of drug addiction and influence of pier pressure, etc. I viewed it after just viewing "Blue Lagoon" and "Return to the Blue Lagoon", how very different worlds, all three flicks showing young people/couples of similar age group. Interesting contrast between these movies!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Almost as good as the "Blue Lagoon"; watch them both, starting from "Blue Lagoon" first!
(Worth watching) - review by Eva
Better then expected. Will appeal to many viewers. Leo McKern charismatic as always, the young actors beautiful, the tropical island and the nature shots make a great backdrop. Highly recommended.
(Excellent) - review by Eva
This flick is long and makes you feel so exhausted, so much coarse language, drug use, gun use, vanity and stupidity... At the end vanity and stupidity prevails! I honestly regret I have wasted my time on this piece of rubbish.
(Don't bother!) - review by Eva
