The Movie Review and Discussion Thread

[volcomsocal]

We Are Marshall - 2006

Pretty good flick. Sad at times, good script, good acting, great cinematography, great college football sounds.

I enjoyed this movie, but I would put The Express as the better college football movie, easily.

PQ - 4/5
AQ - 4/5

3.5/5

[Al_The_Strange]

Next greatest rental: “Treasure Planet.”

This film came out during the dark and immoral times when I lost all interest in Disney. I’ve always felt their modern films were mere cash-ins, lacking in the proper staying power and craftsmanship that makes their classics phenomenal. But it was the slick-looking graphics from the trailer that embedded itself in the subconscious of my mind, and begged for a closer look.

So, nine years later, I finally gave it a shot. I knew this would be an adventure flick, but I wondered if it was trying too hard. Within the first ten minutes, I was reminded a bit of “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Nausciaa,” “Castle in the Sky,” “Outlaw Star,” and “The Last Exile,” making me wonder if Disney was trying to make an anime film.

These parallels were quickly forgotten when the spaceships took off and the adventure kicked-started. There’s definitely a lot of high-flying action, futuristic swashbuckling, peril, intense pursuits, and some slick eye-candy. There’s plenty of lighthearted comedy; the farting alien probably won’t sit well with most grumpy adults, the crazy robot might be a bit much, and the floating blob might be a little annoying, but none of it really bothered me that much. For the most part, it’s a fun ride.

This story is a sci-fi adaptation of “Treasure Island,” which I barely remember, so I don’t know how this movie compares with its source material. Obviously, many liberties are taken, at least in swapping out the high seas for deep space, and refitting pirate ships with laser beams and solar sails and other cool stuff. The story remains fairly strong, with a really cool final act and a strong focus on the relationships between the characters. But Long John Silver’s character comes off as a little soft, and the film borders on being overly-sentimental at times.

The film shows the same style and quality as “Titan AE,” blending slick CGI backdrops with cel-animated characters. Disney’s production seems to hold up a little better, for its graphics are nicely-rendered and highly colorful. Movements are smooth and slick. Voice-acting seems pretty good. Production designs are very good; it’s maybe a little weird blending sci-fi with old-fashioned pirate stuff, but for a cartoon it works. Music is okay.

4/5 (entertainment: 4.5/5, story: 3.5/5, film: 4/5)

Recommendation: A definite yes for kids. A rental for everybody else.

If they Blu-Ray it, I’d probably buy it.

[menaceuk]

Originally Posted by Steve46

Maybe I haven't seen them?

It worked for me.

I know you have at least 1 of them on Blu-ray, Dark City Guess you could also put the Matrix in there too as the premise is similar in that too.

[Foggy]

Super 8

About goddamn time...

Just under 2 months I waited for this film, that's possibly the longest I have ever waited to see a film after a US release, I haven't got a problem with the August release, this is the perfect August film, it's risky, it isn't a franchise. This is why films like Rise of the Planet of the Apes are released here (from what I've heard, a very solid and daring attempt at creating a very serious drama from a dead franchise), Cowboys and Aliens (Unknown source material) and Conan (R rating) are released around this time, because the big films have left and the great films have nothing left to battle, my problem is the June release, between X-Men and Lantern and Transformers, this was buried very fast, if they were released in sync with the UK, this would of made a lot more money (however Apes have this weekend, so I'm not so sure)

However, forget that, and remember this, I was hyped as hell for this film, I traveled extra far to watch it in Digital HD and I even brought a large drink, I've never done that since I was about 13. I was hyped as hell, so if Czar was here, it's already clear, I'm biased (just kidding), no, I tell you what it really means...instant 10/10... Weeeellllllllll....

I'm not going to deny it, I couldn't really find a flaw in it saying that, there's one problem, I LOVE THE FILM!!!!

Hate to fall into my pre-set stereotype of loving these nitched films, but I can't think of a single film that packs what this film has since, Jurassic Park, E.T., the original Indy trilogy, etc, you see what I'm getting at

This did salute back to the films that captivated me in my childhood, the imagination, the characters, the humour, the horror, the mystery, the suspense, the action of which you could be a part of, but you just know that you would die if you did It's a movie!!!

This entire summer has not understood the concept of a movie, it's all EPIC CONCLUSION, LEAVE YOUR BRAIN AT THE DOOR ENTERTAINMENT, THE LAST PIECE OF THE AVENGERS PUZZLE everything this summer seems to have some alteria motive, nothing is something that can stand alone, the only thing that came close to it was Fast Five, and that was because it was trying to run away from it's own series, oddly enough.

This film just gets it, it gets the fact that movie is a storytelling device, it gets that compelling character will get the audience to invest in the film. And that action should be a reward, not because you've sat through the film filled full of crap, but because you don't know whats going to happen, you don't know what characters are going to escape or come out alive. It rewards you for caring.

Films, simply put, should not be rarity like this, hidden away. It should be every film released, regardless, this shows no excuses to films like Transformers (You know I was going there), where you're characters are just a waste of time and a deterioration from the expensive stuff that people pay top dollar for. And that they don't have to wise cracking, comedy characters to be likeable, make them human, and the humor will come naturally.

Everything just fits with Super 8, there is rarely a moment that does not work, and at the moment I can't think of a single moment that didn't work. There are no wasted seconds through out this film, I laughed more than I laughed at any film this year, I've welled up in the eyes more than any film this year (considering this is the summer my childhood apparently ended) and I was more scared that any film I care to mention than this film, any positive emotion I felt throughout Super 8, it's just a film that made me smile, for once this year a film that had me smiling like the Cheshire Cat throughout

10/10

Sorry for fitting into stereotype

[SquidPuppet]

Originally Posted by Foggy

Super 8

[Show spoiler]About goddamn time...

Just under 2 months I waited for this film, that's possibly the longest I have ever waited to see a film after a US release, I haven't got a problem with the August release, this is the perfect August film, it's risky, it isn't a franchise. This is why films like Rise of the Planet of the Apes are released here (from what I've heard, a very solid and daring attempt at creating a very serious drama from a dead franchise), Cowboys and Aliens (Unknown source material) and Conan (R rating) are released around this time, because the big films have left and the great films have nothing left to battle, my problem is the June release, between X-Men and Lantern and Transformers, this was buried very fast, if they were released in sync with the UK, this would of made a lot more money (however Apes have this weekend, so I'm not so sure)

However, forget that, and remember this, I was hyped as hell for this film, I traveled extra far to watch it in Digital HD and I even brought a large drink, I've never done that since I was about 13. I was hyped as hell, so if Czar was here, it's already clear, I'm biased (just kidding), no, I tell you what it really means...instant 10/10... Weeeellllllllll....

I'm not going to deny it, I couldn't really find a flaw in it saying that, there's one problem, I LOVE THE FILM!!!!

Hate to fall into my pre-set stereotype of loving these nitched films, but I can't think of a single film that packs what this film has since, Jurassic Park, E.T., the original Indy trilogy, etc, you see what I'm getting at

This did salute back to the films that captivated me in my childhood, the imagination, the characters, the humour, the horror, the mystery, the suspense, the action of which you could be a part of, but you just know that you would die if you did It's a movie!!!

This entire summer has not understood the concept of a movie, it's all EPIC CONCLUSION, LEAVE YOUR BRAIN AT THE DOOR ENTERTAINMENT, THE LAST PIECE OF THE AVENGERS PUZZLE everything this summer seems to have some alteria motive, nothing is something that can stand alone, the only thing that came close to it was Fast Five, and that was because it was trying to run away from it's own series, oddly enough.

This film just gets it, it gets the fact that movie is a storytelling device, it gets that compelling character will get the audience to invest in the film. And that action should be a reward, not because you've sat through the film filled full of crap, but because you don't know whats going to happen, you don't know what characters are going to escape or come out alive. It rewards you for caring.

Films, simply put, should not be rarity like this, hidden away. It should be every film released, regardless, this shows no excuses to films like Transformers (You know I was going there), where you're characters are just a waste of time and a deterioration from the expensive stuff that people pay top dollar for. And that they don't have to wise cracking, comedy characters to be likeable, make them human, and the humor will come naturally.

Everything just fits with Super 8, there is rarely a moment that does not work, and at the moment I can't think of a single moment that didn't work. There are no wasted seconds through out this film, I laughed more than I laughed at any film this year, I've welled up in the eyes more than any film this year (considering this is the summer my childhood apparently ended) and I was more scared that any film I care to mention than this film, any positive emotion I felt throughout Super 8, it's just a film that made me smile, for once this year a film that had me smiling like the Cheshire Cat throughout

10/10

Sorry for fitting into stereotype

That movie was old fashined FUN.

[Foggy]

Originally Posted by SquidPuppet

That movie was old fashined FUN.

Way to fit my entire review into a 6 worded sentence

[jvince]

Originally Posted by Foggy

Super 8

[Show spoiler]About goddamn time...

Just under 2 months I waited for this film, that's possibly the longest I have ever waited to see a film after a US release, I haven't got a problem with the August release, this is the perfect August film, it's risky, it isn't a franchise. This is why films like Rise of the Planet of the Apes are released here (from what I've heard, a very solid and daring attempt at creating a very serious drama from a dead franchise), Cowboys and Aliens (Unknown source material) and Conan (R rating) are released around this time, because the big films have left and the great films have nothing left to battle, my problem is the June release, between X-Men and Lantern and Transformers, this was buried very fast, if they were released in sync with the UK, this would of made a lot more money (however Apes have this weekend, so I'm not so sure)

However, forget that, and remember this, I was hyped as hell for this film, I traveled extra far to watch it in Digital HD and I even brought a large drink, I've never done that since I was about 13. I was hyped as hell, so if Czar was here, it's already clear, I'm biased (just kidding), no, I tell you what it really means...instant 10/10... Weeeellllllllll....

I'm not going to deny it, I couldn't really find a flaw in it saying that, there's one problem, I LOVE THE FILM!!!!

Hate to fall into my pre-set stereotype of loving these nitched films, but I can't think of a single film that packs what this film has since, Jurassic Park, E.T., the original Indy trilogy, etc, you see what I'm getting at

This did salute back to the films that captivated me in my childhood, the imagination, the characters, the humour, the horror, the mystery, the suspense, the action of which you could be a part of, but you just know that you would die if you did It's a movie!!!

This entire summer has not understood the concept of a movie, it's all EPIC CONCLUSION, LEAVE YOUR BRAIN AT THE DOOR ENTERTAINMENT, THE LAST PIECE OF THE AVENGERS PUZZLE everything this summer seems to have some alteria motive, nothing is something that can stand alone, the only thing that came close to it was Fast Five, and that was because it was trying to run away from it's own series, oddly enough.

This film just gets it, it gets the fact that movie is a storytelling device, it gets that compelling character will get the audience to invest in the film. And that action should be a reward, not because you've sat through the film filled full of crap, but because you don't know whats going to happen, you don't know what characters are going to escape or come out alive. It rewards you for caring.

Films, simply put, should not be rarity like this, hidden away. It should be every film released, regardless, this shows no excuses to films like Transformers (You know I was going there), where you're characters are just a waste of time and a deterioration from the expensive stuff that people pay top dollar for. And that they don't have to wise cracking, comedy characters to be likeable, make them human, and the humor will come naturally.

Everything just fits with Super 8, there is rarely a moment that does not work, and at the moment I can't think of a single moment that didn't work. There are no wasted seconds through out this film, I laughed more than I laughed at any film this year, I've welled up in the eyes more than any film this year (considering this is the summer my childhood apparently ended) and I was more scared that any film I care to mention than this film, any positive emotion I felt throughout Super 8, it's just a film that made me smile, for once this year a film that had me smiling like the Cheshire Cat throughout

10/10

Sorry for fitting into stereotype

Great, great movie. It is old-fashioned fun, and I really can't wait to own the blu-ray. Super 8 and I Saw the Devil are my top two films so far this year. I just received my Korean import of IStD, and I'm planning to rewatch it to see if the rating stands.

[Lepidopterous]

Originally Posted by jvince

Great, great movie. It is old-fashioned fun, and I really can't wait to own the blu-ray. Super 8 and I Saw the Devil are my top two films so far this year. I just received my Korean import of IStD, and I'm planning to rewatch it to see if the rating stands.

My rating went up on my second viewing, so I am confident your rating will stand. I also gave both of those 5/5 but I Saw the Devil is a 2010 release. Have you seen A Bittersweet Life? I haven't seen any of the director's other efforts but that looks like it might be good.

________________________________________

On another note, I went to an early bird of Captain America today (2D) and both the film and Evans's performance exceeded my expectations. Also, I loved the Avengers footage at the end.

[jvince]

Originally Posted by DjMethod

My rating went up on my second viewing, so I am confident your rating will stand. I also gave both of those 5/5 but I Saw the Devil is a 2010 release. Have you seen A Bittersweet Life? I haven't seen any of the director's other efforts but that looks like it might be good.

I've seen A Bittersweet Life thrice, and it's such a badass revenge flick, you gotta see it. I even preordered the Korean digibook and I can't wait to get it and watch it again.

The Good, the Bad, the Weird is also pretty good. It's this crazy mix of East and West and classic Westerns and other genres. It shouldn't work, but it does so well. There's this spectacular desert chase scene in the middle that makes it worth seeing alone. Another must-see.

A Tale of Two Sisters was pretty scary, but I felt it was a little overlong. The remake, The Uninvited, was tighter.

His segment "Memories" from Three Extremes II is a cliched ghost story. The only movie of his that left me disappointed.

As you can see, I'm a Jee-woon Kim fan. lol.

[Aerodude73]

Originally Posted by SquidPuppet

That movie was old fashined FUN.

Originally Posted by Foggy

Way to fit my entire review into a 6 worded sentence

DITTO!! My Favorite movie of 2011, with CAPTAIN AMERICA, RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES & X-MEN: FC close, but a Wee bit behind.

[dag]

Tonight I attended a 70mm screening of David Lean's masterful epic, Lawrence of Arabia. What a remarkable film: absolutely stunning cinematography, majestic score, fantastic editing - I can't use too many superlatives. The sweeping desert landscapes are breathtaking.

Who was Lawrence? That question is asked frequently throughout the film, more than once directly to the protagonist. The subtle symbolism scattered in the movie imply that he is unknowable. And, remarkably, the political questions it highlights remain shockingly relevant literally today.

And this is all done in a serious, mature manner that I frankly think completely escapes modern film-making. The script is extremely serious. Unlike today's movies, there isn't anything computer generated; everything happens in real space, with a cast of hundreds. And Anthony Quinn steals every scene he's in.

An absolutely incredible film. I'm thankful for having had the opportunity of seeing it at a theatre.

[Lepidopterous]

Originally Posted by jvince

I've seen A Bittersweet Life thrice, and it's such a badass revenge flick, you gotta see it. I even preordered the Korean digibook and I can't wait to get it and watch it again.

The Good, the Bad, the Weird is also pretty good. It's this crazy mix of East and West and classic Westerns and other genres. It shouldn't work, but it does so well. There's this spectacular desert chase scene in the middle that makes it worth seeing alone. Another must-see.

A Tale of Two Sisters was pretty scary, but I felt it was a little overlong. The remake, The Uninvited, was tighter.

His segment "Memories" from Three Extremes II is a cliched ghost story. The only movie of his that left me disappointed.

As you can see, I'm a Jee-woon Kim fan. lol.

Hmm, I might end up watching them all if I enjoy that one. Korean revenge flick? Good? You don't say...

On your Korean release, do you know which cut is on the US release and if it's the superior/inferior (in your opinion) cut? Just curious about the differences between them because I might purchase the US release soon.

Also...

[Show spoiler]Adventure Time is the best cartoon on TV.

[Lepidopterous]

Originally Posted by dag

Tonight I attended a 70mm screening of David Lean's masterful epic, Lawrence of Arabia. What a remarkable film: absolutely stunning cinematography, majestic score, fantastic editing - I can't use too many superlatives. The sweeping desert landscapes are breathtaking.

Who was Lawrence? That question is asked frequently throughout the film, more than once directly to the protagonist. The subtle symbolism scattered in the movie imply that he is unknowable. And, remarkably, the political questions it highlights remain shockingly relevant literally today.

And this is all done in a serious, mature manner that I frankly think completely escapes modern film-making. The script is extremely serious. Unlike today's movies, there isn't anything computer generated; everything happens in real space, with a cast of hundreds. And Anthony Quinn steals every scene he's in.

An absolutely incredible film. I'm thankful for having had the opportunity of seeing it at a theatre.

Great words. Lawrence is a masterpiece if I have ever seen one. Some of the best cinematography I have seen in any film, yet it goes so far beyond its sweeping epic nature as an intelligent character study.

[Al_The_Strange]

Originally Posted by dag

Tonight I attended a 70mm screening of David Lean's masterful epic, Lawrence of Arabia. What a remarkable film: absolutely stunning cinematography, majestic score, fantastic editing - I can't use too many superlatives. The sweeping desert landscapes are breathtaking.

Who was Lawrence? That question is asked frequently throughout the film, more than once directly to the protagonist. The subtle symbolism scattered in the movie imply that he is unknowable. And, remarkably, the political questions it highlights remain shockingly relevant literally today.

And this is all done in a serious, mature manner that I frankly think completely escapes modern film-making. The script is extremely serious. Unlike today's movies, there isn't anything computer generated; everything happens in real space, with a cast of hundreds. And Anthony Quinn steals every scene he's in.

An absolutely incredible film. I'm thankful for having had the opportunity of seeing it at a theatre.

Niiiiiiiiiccccceeeee.

Good review too; I agree with everything you said.

[Foggy]

Originally Posted by dag

Tonight I attended a 70mm screening of David Lean's masterful epic, Lawrence of Arabia. What a remarkable film: absolutely stunning cinematography, majestic score, fantastic editing - I can't use too many superlatives. The sweeping desert landscapes are breathtaking.

Who was Lawrence? That question is asked frequently throughout the film, more than once directly to the protagonist. The subtle symbolism scattered in the movie imply that he is unknowable. And, remarkably, the political questions it highlights remain shockingly relevant literally today.

And this is all done in a serious, mature manner that I frankly think completely escapes modern film-making. The script is extremely serious. Unlike today's movies, there isn't anything computer generated; everything happens in real space, with a cast of hundreds. And Anthony Quinn steals every scene he's in.

An absolutely incredible film. I'm thankful for having had the opportunity of seeing it at a theatre.

Ah, you are so lucky!

[jvince]

Originally Posted by DjMethod

Hmm, I might end up watching them all if I enjoy that one. Korean revenge flick? Good? You don't say...

Yep, A Bittersweet Life is pretty darn good. One of the very best revenge films I've ever seen. This guy is a freaking master of the genre.

Originally Posted by DjMethod

On your Korean release, do you know which cut is on the US release and if it's the superior/inferior (in your opinion) cut? Just curious about the differences between them because I might purchase the US release soon.

If you're talking about I Saw the Devil, the Korean blu-ray has both the Korean (aka Theatrical) and the International (aka U.S.) Cuts. The U.S. blu-ray, I believe, only has the International Cut. I have yet to watch my blu-ray, so I can't tell which cut is better right now.

Originally Posted by DjMethod

Also...

[Show spoiler]Adventure Time is the best cartoon on TV.

Amen.

[Al_The_Strange]

“The Animatrix.”

As part of the hype generated by the “Matrix Reloaded,” this series of anime shorts was developed and distributed to provide more insight to the worlds in the Matrix saga (and ppossibly to wrangle up some more fans). With the efforts of Yoshiaki Kawajiri, Shinichiro Watanabe, Peter Chung, and other Japanese directors, it’s a varied collection that offers multiple insights and a variety of styles and quality. This collection is like a sampler plate for anime (incidentally, it was the first anime I really watched and got into, and it inspired me to check out the real thing).

“The Final Flight of the Osiris” is the first of the lot, and of all computer-animated films I know of, this one still shows superior quality. Characters look incredibly life-like at times; by modern standards, it resembles a video game clip more than anything, but considering that there aren’t a whole lot of CGI movies with human characters, this film is quite impressive. It’s a short, action-packed, and fairly invoking. Above all, it helps bridge the gap between the first two Matrix movies.

“The Second Renaissance” Parts I and II serve as the Matrix prequel, chronicling the war between man and machine. It’s extremely bleak and quite violent. With its portrayal of nuclear devastation, environmental warfare, and the eventual enslavement of the human race, these two episodes really get to me. The animation is quite smooth and slick, with lots of memorable imagery. It is fast-paced, almost erratically so, but the biblical-style narrative keeps it entrancing. In a proper Matrix marathon, I place these before the three main movies, and it is worthwhile seeing for all Matrix fans.

“Kid’s Story” doesn’t have the same momentum as the last few episodes, but it is a nice little story that shows how the Kid character comes into being in the Matrix sequels. Its slower pacing and sketchy graphics don’t really appeal to me, but it is another requisite bridge between the first and second movies.

“Program” has always been my favorite of the lot, featuring fantastic visuals and fast-paced action. The duel between two lovers is quite intense, and their actions really underscore the philosophical issue of whether or not it’s better to live a lie or suffer the truth. The animation quality here is strong and the character designs are excellent.

“World Record” is one of my least favorites in this collection. It does have a really funky style and quality, with interesting visuals. It is a pretty good story, but it is lacking in action. (I skipped this segment this time around)

“Beyond” strikes me more as a Miyazaki-style story, with its emphasis on child-like whimsy and wonder. It has a cast of likable kids, some wonderful visuals, and it is a cute little story overall. Once again, it doesn’t offer much action, but it isn’t totally dull either. (I skipped this segment this time around)

“A Detective’s Story” is my least favorite of the lot. It does have some nice film-noir style visuals and characters. I’m just disappointed in the story, which is a little too short to serve as an effective mystery, and by its conclusion it doesn’t really resonate. (I skipped this segment this time around)

“Matriculated” is something very weird and trippy, almost dream-like at spots. It’s a solid and original story with a profound conclusion and some interesting implications. Its visuals are fantastic, and it’s the one other story here that I consider most worthwhile.

All of these stories show quality animation style and quality; some of the digitally-animated backgrounds may show some anomalies, but it holds up for the most part. Voice-acting can be a little cheesy, but is still decent. Production designs are strong, with plenty of cool settings, vehicles, weapons, robots, and objects that correlate to the Matrix movies well. The feature also has one of the coolest soundtracks (I’ve played the “Animatrix” CD hundreds of times; it’s a favorite).

5/5 (entertainment: 4.5/5, stories: 5/5, films: 4.5/5)

Recommendation: Highly recommend at least the first three stories to Matrix fans; the feature as a whole I’d recommend as a rental to anybody who’s interested. But if you’re getting this as part of the Ultimate Collection, why not check it out?

This Blu-Ray looks excellent; it's much easier to see the film's textures and artwork in high-def than on DVD. Parts of the film seem a little soft and unrefined, but I believe it's a limitation of the animation rather than the disc. Sound quality is strong, but not quite as strong as the main movies (once again, it might be a limitation of the film itself).

PQ: 4.5/5, AQ: 4.5/5

[Al_The_Strange]

“The Matrix.”

There’s a certain mystique to computer hacking, which is either reflected or caused by this film, showcasing hackers as a group of unruly punks in grungy places fighting the powers that be. There’s also a certain coolness to cyberpunk stories (which have never really been translated to film that much, sadly enough), underscoring the symbiotic relationship between man and machine. If you’ve ever read (much less understand) William Gibson’s novel “The Neuromancer,” or seen the anime film “Ghost in the Shell,” you’ll see strong themes regarding the dangers and benefits of such a relationship.

Put these elements together, and you’ll get the foundations for this film. It starts off as a thriller, with occasional surreal moments that help keep a sense of mystery. In the second act, the movie spends its time explaining its premise, and laying down the rules for the environments the movie introduces (there is a dense universe to this film, on the same level as “The Terminator”). Then, in the final act, we are treated to a massive helping of glorious action sequences. There are plenty of solid thrills throughout the film’s middle, which keep the pacing tight and even. But toward the end, we get some of the coolest fight scenes ever filmed, one of the coolest gunfights ever filmed, and some of the most original and imaginative special effects ever developed. The action alone makes this film a must-see.

But it’s also the story that counts. It is as deep as it is original (well, original for a film anyway). The characters show decent depth, and by the end of the movie you really come to enjoy them. The story has a solid structure and it is well-developed. Just about every moment of it explores the main premise and all of its philosophical implications; hardly a moment passes that won’t make you wonder about the nature of reality, and the nature of the human mind. There are many nuances in the characters, story, writing, and even shot composition that underscore all the movie’s themes. On every viewing, the movie presents something new to discover and contemplate.

The film also shows apt quality. Its photography and editing are top-notch and highly distinctive. Acting is swell all around; this is probably Keanu Reeve’s best performance in his career; Lawrence Fishbourne, Carrie-Ann Moss, Joe Pantiliano, and Hugo Weaving all inhabit their characters very well. Writing is exceptionally strong. Production value is strong and highly detailed; some sets look a little fake and some of the special effects show their age, but they are decent overall. Most sets, props, and costumes are cool. Music is very cool too.

5/5 (entertainment: 5/5, story: 5/5, film: 5/5)

Recommendation: Hell yeah!

This Blu-Ray is great; it's highly-detailed and sharp, with fine color and contrast, and no obvious sign of digital manipulation. Some shots look a little soft and a few other shots show weaker contrast, but such problems are few, far between, and marginal. Sound quality is very good.

PQ: 5/5, AQ: 5/5

[Pirate King]

Originally Posted by dag

Tonight I attended a 70mm screening of David Lean's masterful epic, Lawrence of Arabia. What a remarkable film: absolutely stunning cinematography, majestic score, fantastic editing - I can't use too many superlatives. The sweeping desert landscapes are breathtaking.

Who was Lawrence? That question is asked frequently throughout the film, more than once directly to the protagonist. The subtle symbolism scattered in the movie imply that he is unknowable. And, remarkably, the political questions it highlights remain shockingly relevant literally today.

And this is all done in a serious, mature manner that I frankly think completely escapes modern film-making. The script is extremely serious. Unlike today's movies, there isn't anything computer generated; everything happens in real space, with a cast of hundreds. And Anthony Quinn steals every scene he's in.

An absolutely incredible film. I'm thankful for having had the opportunity of seeing it at a theatre.

I was lucky enough to see it in the theater twice during the summer of 1963. (After it had already won the acadamey awards) The movie was released in '62, but we only had three screens in my town, and it was sometimes months before new releases finally made it to town. A lot different than today! I believe Lawrence of Arabia is one of the best movies ever filmed. Simply Stunning.

[Steve46]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

“The Matrix.”

There’s a certain mystique to computer hacking, which is either reflected or caused by this film, showcasing hackers as a group of unruly punks in grungy places fighting the powers that be. There’s also a certain coolness to cyberpunk stories (which have never really been translated to film that much, sadly enough), underscoring the symbiotic relationship between man and machine. If you’ve ever read (much less understand) William Gibson’s novel “The Neuromancer,” or seen the anime film “Ghost in the Shell,” you’ll see strong themes regarding the dangers and benefits of such a relationship.

Put these elements together, and you’ll get the foundations for this film. It starts off as a thriller, with occasional surreal moments that help keep a sense of mystery. In the second act, the movie spends its time explaining its premise, and laying down the rules for the environments the movie introduces (there is a dense universe to this film, on the same level as “The Terminator”). Then, in the final act, we are treated to a massive helping of glorious action sequences. There are plenty of solid thrills throughout the film’s middle, which keep the pacing tight and even. But toward the end, we get some of the coolest fight scenes ever filmed, one of the coolest gunfights ever filmed, and some of the most original and imaginative special effects ever developed. The action alone makes this film a must-see.

But it’s also the story that counts. It is as deep as it is original (well, original for a film anyway). The characters show decent depth, and by the end of the movie you really come to enjoy them. The story has a solid structure and it is well-developed. Just about every moment of it explores the main premise and all of its philosophical implications; hardly a moment passes that won’t make you wonder about the nature of reality, and the nature of the human mind. There are many nuances in the characters, story, writing, and even shot composition that underscore all the movie’s themes. On every viewing, the movie presents something new to discover and contemplate.

The film also shows apt quality. Its photography and editing are top-notch and highly distinctive. Acting is swell all around; this is probably Keanu Reeve’s best performance in his career; Lawrence Fishbourne, Carrie-Ann Moss, Joe Pantiliano, and Hugo Weaving all inhabit their characters very well. Writing is exceptionally strong. Production value is strong and highly detailed; some sets look a little fake and some of the special effects show their age, but they are decent overall. Most sets, props, and costumes are cool. Music is very cool too.

5/5 (entertainment: 5/5, story: 5/5, film: 5/5)

Recommendation: Hell yeah!

I agree that there's a lot of depth. I showed The Matrix to a friend who loves action movies. He didn't like it. That makes no sense to me.