295 of 1001 Movies: Full Metal Jacket (1987)

Full Metal Jacket is disturbingly intriguing and real, but that defines a Stanley Kubrick movie. Released a couple of decades after the Vietnam war, I'm sure it still resonated vivid for many, including R.Lee Ermey who played Gunnery Sergeant Hartman, and was also a real U.S. Marine Drill Instructor during Vietnam. This movie puts everyone on the same feelings while watching the movie. There are many points within in the movie, and within the points themselves, but ultimately this isn't a patriotic movie nor one anti-war, it's about being human.

Summary: During 1967 in the Vietnam War, new recruits are arriving at Parris Island for basic training. Upon arriving most the guys are young, and excited to explore. They haven't recognized what they got themselves into though. After several weeks of training together, and even graduating the first cracks in sanity are beginning to show among some of the men, and one, Joker, witnesses it firsthand. The rest of the movie conveys the men in Vietnam fighting for a cause even they seem confused about.

The first half of the movie involves the training. Most might note this as their favorite part. Hartman provides many memorable liners, though I would hope I would never hear any of them repeated around me. In keeping with the realism of it though, Ermey ad libbed many things he had said as an actual drill instructor. Kubrick directs well in conveying the breakdown of one character nicknamed, Gomer Pyle.

The scene building up to the break of Pyle could easily be noted as one of the most memorable. While it was intense and kept me on edge I couldn't help but think of earlier works like The Shining or A Clockwork Orange. It's always done well when he conveys the breaking of the psych, but also I felt there were more unique moments and realizations in the movie. I think the oncoming breakdown of Pyle is obvious, but what it does to Joker not so much, who witnesses it firsthand.

I don't think Pyle's scene where he breaks is as much as it is about what happens to Pyle as it is what happens to Joker when he sees firsthand what he is already signed on to do, and the effects it will have on those around him. He stands loyally by his friends, but he approaches the leadership with skepticism. He embodies many feelings people had about the war, and shows they were also rising in those fighting it.

Joker perhaps justified what he was doing with a light and protective attitude regarding his friends, but he never becomes inhumane. I think seeing what can happen early on keeps him the most levelheaded though he is damaged.

The range of other characters make for an interesting mix up to the story. You have some who seem to have justified their acts in various ways. None seem to be quite patriotic anymore.. Most are fighting back in revenge, because they believe the Vietnamese are unthankful, some who seem to enjoy killing, and others who are just trying to survive. Whatever the reason the whole thing is a bad situation, and in their own human ways everyone is trying to cope. It's not as much about the war as it is about the depths a human might plunder into without good reason to stay afloat.

294 of 1001 Movies: Force of Evil (1948)

There are things to like about Force of Evil, and to not be so much into. It was only an hour and a half film from the 40's though, so the story can leave a bit to be desired, especially considering it flaunts a lot of ladies and scenes on the poster that don't really make a difference to the movie, except for one, and guess what? It's the lady who has two short scenes he has his arms wrapped around flailing a gun out with. The posters for these movies can be a bit comical, and at least make me thankful we don't market movies like this anymore.

Summary: Joe Morse is a lawyer dealing with some big time gangsters. He has the idea to consolidate all the small number rackets into one operation. His brother, Leo, is one of the small racketeers who wants to stay that way, and now that Joe has convinced the gangsters to become involved, he must convince his brother Leo to do the same. Ben Tucker has no patience for Leo though, and this puts his brother in danger of a tide he has set in place.

The main two faces in this movie are Leo and Joe. It works especially with the correlations with Cain and Abel, even if East of Eden beat them to the punch in a much better story. Anyways, the actors do good with their stories though, and we at least grow to care about these people. Who can help but like the bad boy gone good, after meeting a girl and caring about his brother scenario?

The ladies in this movie take a huge back seat though, and while Beatrice provides a nice dynamic of romance, and him making a leap away from his affair with the gangster boss' wife. I have to say the affair was so poorly indicated I didn't realize it was an affair till my husband noticed a called this a film-noir, and he asked did it have the ingredients of crime and an affair? It's my fault for missing the fact she was in her robe in one of two scenes with Joe the lawyer though. Ladies aren't wearing robes in these movies, unless their up to some funny business.

There are some remarkable achievements that put this movie on the 1001 list, and kept it compelling for me to watch. One of these things was the usage of the poetic dialogue. It rings with more emotion, and kept with the time and the personality of the characters. It's worthy of people repeating the lines as quotes in their day to day life.

Another part of the movie that is stand out, is the usage of real life scenery from the city instead of other backdrops. You have a lot of wide shots that don't only focus in on the characters, but it brings element and depth to their surroundings. This cast the mood better as well.

Force of Evil is a good film noir movie. It has a lot of basic elements there, it keeps you caring about the people, it's well shot, and it has suspense. It lacks a bit in developing the story itself, especially when it cuts off at the end, but that is what you get on short time. I felt some of the ideas they were trying to encompass needed more depth though.

292 of 1001 Movies: Enter the Dragon (1973)

I've heard about Enter the Dragon my whole life. I decided to finally watch it and also found out my husband is a fan. I can see why. Bruce Lee choreographed the fight scenes very well, and they did shape an intriguing story around the scenes that not only show off the skill, but give you something to follow. Truly this movie is for the 70s action fan or a martial arts enthusiast.

Summary: Lee is a Shaolin martial artist from Hong Kong. He also has philosophical insight that helps his skill. He is recruited to visit an island as a spy to investigate Mr. Han. Mr. Han was a former Shaolin student until he was expelled. Now it is alleged he running a drug and prostitution ring. The arrival of Lee is very warm from Mr. Han, but as suspicions begin to rise on the island so does the comfort of blending in. The other people who are coming to the island to fight are Roper and Williams, both con men. Even their comfort is threatened among the growing concerns a spy has come on the island. Without the jurisdiction of the government thy could be in a lot of trouble.

The movie does have great fighting scenes, and if nothing else you'll be intrigued by what the human body is capable of. I think in some ways this might take forefront over the story, which isn't really a bad thing.

Bruce Lee also seemed to want more in the original, and it has since been rereleased, as stated by his then wife at the beginning of the movie. The version I watched was the version he was hoping would be released. I like how Lee wanted to use this as a tool to introduce people to his culture and the philosophy of it. As said, the story itself might take away from some of that.

Now I did enjoy this movie. There are some actors who struggle though, even though they are small, and there are a bunch of sound effects. What does work is the soundtrack.

There were several sound options you could choose from when beginning the movie. You could choose just the English format, one without speaking and just the soundtrack, or one with commentary. The soundtrack is very catchy, and it adds a lot to the scenes. Plus it immerses you in the 70s culture, and an interesting blend of Chinese instrumentals.

Robert Clouse does a good job at directing, but I think the well captured fighting shots may have been more so Bruce Lee's part. There are some moments it seems the scenes end awkwardly, and there are some moments that flow long, but overall it's an entertaining movie, and the lead actors get us to care about them.

291 of 1001 Movies: Fanny and Alexander (1983)

I was unsure of what I would be embarking on when I rented Fanny and Alexander from Swedish director, Ingmar Bergman. This autobiographical tale gives us the view of an adult world, mostly through the eyes of a child, and it's disturbing to say in the least what the experience is. It appears to be almost eventless on the service, but the deeper layers of mental abuse are frightening.

Summary: Fanny and Alexander's family is close, and it is captured by opening with a scene of the family at Christmas. Fun is of most importance when they are together, but apart much of the family is having their own struggles. Whether is finance, promiscuity, or working too hard everyone is going through something. After Fanny and Alexander's father dies they are spurred into a completely opposite direction. Their mother is taken away from the theater she works for, and marries a priest who is overbearing and imposing. The children's life is also drastically changed, and it seems almost unimaginable to them all how much this will affect them.

The film is intriguing because it combines different elements of what people experienced in their lives, including the actors to make a film that is telling many tales, but what takes the forefront is the one about Fanny and Alexander.

I thought everyone did good in their portrayals of their roles. No one had to over express to make you feel what they were feeling, even the kids. The movie seems lighthearted at first with serious undertones. I do wonder about the other dynamic in the families we didn't seem to return to like the one uncle in financial troubles with the theater company? I felt everyone's story and voice was given proper attention though.

This movie in it's own way has a timeless quality too. The shots and color are vivid, yet the pale tones keep it only settled to the time it's based in. It doesn't feel like you're watching an 80's movie.

The story becomes more surreal as the story moves on, and I think this also depicts the child mind of Alexander well, and how he is perceiving these serious issues. You ask about the reality of the ghosts he sees, and you wonder about the encounter he had with Ismael more in an adult way than how maybe his imagination was taking it in?

Fanny and Alexander is an arthouse movie, and if you're a lover of those movies then this is one to watch. The story is a hard one to forget, and you can't help but question the lines of right and wrong with this one.

290 of 1001 Movies: Groundhog Day (1993)

Groundhog Day is stranger and wackier than I thought it would be, and this turned out to be a good thing. Only Harold Ramis, the director, and Bill Murray could have brought it to life in the way they did. There is something valuable to be taken away from this movie as well about living in the moment, and trying to approach each day with a pleasant demeanor, that seems to particularly resonate around this time year. With it being Groundhog Day I bring you my thoughts on the movie.

Summary: Phil is a weatherman, who is moving on to bigger and better things after he fulfills his last day on the job after covering Groundhog Day. He also sadly has the same name as the groundhog he is covering. Phil will find out this isn't his last day on the job after he wakes up to find it is the same day again and again. With no help from his fell crew, Rita and Larry, he decides to make the most of his days on repeat, including trying to pursue a relationship with Rita. The ultimate question is Phil trapped to repeat everyday, or is there a way out of it?

This movie seems light on top, but underneath there seems to be much for the reader to read into. There are also many things that make this movie intriguing, and surprisingly not a science fiction or fantasy. It's only a comedy. There is no rhyme or reason to how Phil got into this, nor how he will get out. I liked this, and it made the movie unique.

Bill Murray is also the only guy who could play Phil. He's a very unlikable guy, but Murray has us relating and feeling like him. He does everything that a person would do or imagine doing if this happened.

What does puzzle me is how Andie MacDowell had the acting career she did in the 90's?  I thought maybe the character was poorly written in Four Weddings and a Funeral, or she was miscast, but she is bland. Perhaps she is just an under actor, and that isn't my thing? When paired with the expressive Billy Murray though it feels unevenly matched. She isn't memorable in anything yet plays quirky women, you would think you would remember.

The direction of the movie is good though, and Ramis keeps it moving so it never can boring. At first I was a bit baffled by the silly humor, and the sudden change of events, but it works because Ramis never gives us too long to focus on it, and more so directions our attention to the purpose of the movie. This guy ultimately has to learn to live in the moment without the next big thing to happen he's looking toward.

If you're at home this Groundhog's Day then you might want to grab this movie. It feels like the long months after Christmas in the winter, when you're waiting on spring.

288 of 1001 Movies: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

It was a random decision to finally watch Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and I didn't regret it. So far the 1940's had proven a strong time for movies, but the 1950's had a liveliness and upbeat nature that came out of the 40's. On top of that, the popularization of technicolor was taking flight, an it makes a film pop so amazingly. I'm a fan of technicolor. This movie provides some of the most memorable song movies of all time like, "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend." Not only that but it has tons of memorable song and dance scenes, and the undertones definitely make it at least PG-13.

Summary: Lorelei Lee and Dorothy Shaw are showgirls who have different perceptions about love. Lorelei believes you need to marry rich to be comfortable to focus on love, and Dorothy Shaw wants to find a passionate love despite the circumstances. Lorelei finds herself in trouble after she becomes engaged to Gus, a rich heir, and boards a cruise ship with a wealthy man who owns a diamond dynasty. The temptation lands her in trouble, and her friend Dorothy caught in an interesting triangle between a friend and possible love.

The movie stars Jane Russell as Dorothy, and Marilyn Monroe as Lorelei. I think the two actresses balance each other well. Russell has the charm of Katharine Hephburn. Unlike many movies at the time both sexes seem to mock and have fun with the stereotypes in the 50's culture, and even turn the tables while Dorothy's character admires the Olympic sports players who have boarded a ship with them.

The movie seems to make light of, while also giving thought to how women are known for marrying men with money, and men are known for marrying women who have looks. Dorothy's character wants in on known of that, but Lorelei is all about that.

The movie never becomes too deep, but it does analyze what has brought these characters to these conclusions as well. Lorelei only slightly indicates the hurt she has had in the past that makes her more reliant on diamonds and money for happiness than men, even though she seems to find a balance by the end.

What is most likable about the movie is how this seems to be a buddy comedy for women though. It's rare, especially for this era, to draw out women's friendships like this that will stick by each other as these two do. Many times we see women pitted against each other over men and vanity, but in this one they stick to one another.

By the end the movie calls out many double standards, and even ones that still exist today. It's impressive that Howard Hawkes has the range he does to direct the variety of movies he has brought to the screen.  While the topics have serious undertones, the movie itself always stays light. Some may like the fairy tale, and some may not, but considering this was the 50's it was set in, it's not exactly surprising. Regardless, this is at least a fun movie that catches the attention.

287 of 1001 Movies: Once (2006)

This is my second full viewing of once, and I love it as much as the first time I viewed it. It's a movie I enjoyed so much  want to see the musical show, which I've heard good things about as well. I also recently watched, Begin Again, so this stirred my curiosity to rewatch Once with my husband since he hadn't seen it. I did enjoy Begin Again, but after watching Once, I couldn't help that they both seemed to focus on the same type of story. Not in a bad way, but you would have to not be overly critical of that to enjoy.

Summary: A guy and girl, whose names remain unknown, have a chance meeting on a street, after the girl stops to admire his street performance. From there they form a friendship that is tied together by their interest in music. Together they begin collaborating on music and seeking to make him a demo record he can showcase. The week in Dublin, tells their love stores inadvertently through the songs they write and perform. Their complicated pasts must be dealt with first. In the end it will have to be decided their meeting will lead to a once in a lifetime type of romance, or a once upon a time week.

The movie was shot on a low budget, but the passion that John Carney puts into his movie by far makes up for the budget. They use their money wisely on highlighting the best parts of the movie, like the emotions from the music and hiring talented performers to perform them. You don't need to try to over do glossing the music, if you have performers who can achieve much of what needs to be done without help.

The set is also a beautiful location for the movie. The clouds and Dublin setting suit much of the vibe you have from the characters throughout as they deal with difficult decisions they have to make. While romantic, this casts the feeling they have over their budding romance.

Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova also have enough chemistry to fill a room. I rarely see this much authentic chemistry between two on screen leads. Hansard is pouring his heart out through the music, and Irglova is patiently voicing her concerns. The balance winds up with a real on going love story. You can't help but what may happen for these two as the story doesn't feel over even when it ends.

The music is what gave the movie all the notice and rightfully so. They would receive an Oscar win. I find the music to be so good, it ranks as one of my top favorite albums. It's never grown old.

If you're looking for an independent movie to check out, I highly recommend this one. The R rating is the only oddity that stood out misplaced for this movie. It has no violence nor even sexuality in it, yet it garners a worst rating than much more disturbing images I've seen. While you're at it go ahead and check out Carney's other one as well, Begin Again.

285 of 1001 Movies: Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)

From director Mike Newell, and famed screenwriter, Richard Curtis, comes one of the most British films there is, Four Weddings and a Funeral. I have to admit I didn't overly enjoy Love Actually, but I really loved About Time from Richard Curtis. Maybe he just needed to dump Hugh Grant finally? I think overall I enjoyed the story, but I've never been huge into this specific type of romance, and the acting left something to be desired.

Summary: The movie centers on Charles and his group of friends throughout the duration of four funerals and a wedding. Charles is a good guy, but he's also a bit awkward when it comes to expressing his feelings. He meets Carrie at a wedding, and he finds out that if he really wants to win over love then he might need to become better about expressing that then. Carrie doesn't waste time though, and through four weddings and funerals not only does a lot change in their own lives, but the lives of those that surround them as well.

The two main leads are Hugh Grant and Andie MacDowell as Carrie. I don't think neither were bad in their roles, but also they didn't hit in making the memorable impact that the screenplay seemed to showcase they could. Actually, Grant is fitting for his character here. As a guy who wasn't who he is now there isn't an energy of being uptight that is in this role that transcends into his other ones. I'm still not a huge Grant fan though. The character seemed capable of a lot more. Now MacDowell might have spoiled the movie for me, or at least the vibe of it. I don't think she is a bad actress, but not particularly suiting for the role. More so, my confusion was what laid in the motives of her character? Was she making the choices she were because the possibility of taking a chance with Charles scared her? MacDowell's portrayal left me unaware of what emotions the character was experiencing.

There was one character that I was transfixed by, but in a huge array of characters takes a back seat. Kristen Scott Thomas was Fiona in the movie, and the character that most intrigued me. I also enjoyed her in The English Patient as well. Seeing the chemistry that Hugh Grant had with her, sort of makes me think it wasn't him that he was wrong for the role, but more so the pairing with him, Andie MacDowell. Thomas seemed to have real emotions going on with her character that pulled her in, but the movie is trying to handle a lot, which I admire Newell for, but also it is too much to develop.

I can see why the movie is a charming one. For a time when the romantic comedy was thriving in the 80's and on, this movie brought in a new element with romantic movies. Not only was it trying to handle the two leads romance, but also the intertwining relationship of a group of people as this is all happening. It was like the Friends of movies for the time. I admire it for what it embarked on, but there was some heartstrings I wanted pulled that weren't. Then again I find the two leads personalities very unattractive.

284 of 1001 Movies: The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947)

For a rainy Monday I picked up The Ghost and Mr. Muir to watch, and it was suiting. The setting and characters add to the atmosphere the director, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, incorporates into the film. The movie is a bit slow throughout, and for some reason the characters lacked intrigued. There is a quality of magic that is maintained throughout the movie that was appealing to me.

Summary: Lucy Muir is a widow who want to get away with her daughter from her controlling in-laws. In a big movie she purchases a house by the shores of the beach to move to. Her in-laws think this idea is crazy, but Ms. Muir is going through with it. Upon arriving she receives a warning about the property but wants to purchase anyway. After moving in the ghost of Captain Daniel Gregg begins trying to spook her out except he finds she isn't very scared. The two grow closer, but with boundaries to the relationship someone might have to let go, and the person it might have seemed easiest to let go, may have a harder time than predicted.

The quality of the movie adds to the setting. The film has an overcast vibe, and the scenery they use contribute to casting that same effect. The movie also brings out the Victorian era it was set in as well with the costumes and vibe. The movie being filmed in California also contributes to a lot of a great scenery.

On top of that you have good acting from the cast. Rex Harrison is the captain, and while he seems a bit stiff in his role, and a little easy to predict, he still brings out the toughened captain, softened by a woman whole essence well. A little chessy? Yes.

Gene Tierney was Ms. Muir,and I thought she brought out the refined and strong aspect of the character well. She kept her interesting, including how she responded to the scenarios she was threw in. The only thing I did noticed was how the poster drastically changed her appearance from the movie. On the poster she has the 40's hair, even the dress, but obviously in the movie she looks nothing like that. It's odd ho far movies then might go in their own way, without the use of photoshop,to make a woman look appealing to draw a crowd into the movie.

Without special effects then to make us think of the captain as a ghost, they do a good job of casting the mood instead to create his presence as one. The movie does throw in the unexpected twist to the story line to keep things interesting, but for the most part it's a lot of dialogue and moving slowly with each scene. The director captures the growing feelings between these two well though,and leaves us wondering how it might progress.

283 of 1001 Movies: El Norte (1983)

If there were two movies that relate to what is going on in America right now that I would recommend watching, one would be Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing, and the other would be El Norte. I was surprised by how much the movie did move me. The movie explores a lot of things that many people may not be aware of regarding who immigrants are, the lives they come from, and even how they live once arriving to the U.S.

Summary: Enrique and Rosa's village in Guatemala is ravaged in the Guatemalan Civil War. The only way to continue to survive, and attempt to make a better live for themselves is to head north, where they have heard much about the wealthy livelihood many have claimed to find there. After the struggles to get there, including attempted robbery and having to go through the dirtiest and darkest place to the border, they find that the U.S. is as they hoped...for at least a couple of weeks or so that is. They both begin to quickly learn the threat of deportation and how easy it is to be taken advantage of with all the fear and courage it took to get here.

 The movie is intriguing because the director, Gregory Nava, grew up near the border in California. He had many relatives that did live in Mexico across the border, that he would go to visit. It's intriguing that he's used his experience and time growing up as a citizen who is Hispanic in a way to create such a complex and moving movie. I also was unaware that PBS sometimes financed movies, which they partly did with this one. The movie would be nominated for an Oscar that involved the screenplay, which was much deserved.

There were a few scenes that really stood out to me. One was the scene where Enrique is offered a job that could potentially offer him a better life and pay in Chicago. What he thinks as an act of kindness though he mistakes for essentially what seems to be the American way. In the scene he's very excited and overwhelmed with the prospect, while the lady who is offering it is cold and finds him replaceable if he declines. To take the job he would have to also leave his sister, Rosa. The family unit is something that Enrique highly values, but to get by he will have to leave her.

I won't give away the ending, but the ending is also very memorable, and one to leave you speechless. I have to say that if you get the chance to view it with someone that the ending is definitely one worth discussing and exploring, and it goes from a tale that seems to be one that can be taken at face value, to one that drops over into fantasy, but dark fantasy.

I can warn that this movie isn't light viewing. It sits heavy after you've seen it, especially after you pick up on what is implied happened to one of the characters. If you still have the same views regarding immigrants after viewing this, well then I don't know what to say. It's insightful, well acted, and the story is well done. I viewed this movie alone, which I think was best as there is a lot to take in, and it's easier for me to follow, especially with a movie as serious as this.

282 of 1001 Movies: Halloween (1978)

What is more appropriate to watch on Halloween than the movie titled Halloween? It's not my favorite horror I watched, but it does set the atmosphere very well as John Carpenter seems to be good at doing. Thank goodness he is good at least at that because as far as the story, it's pretty weak. The music, the lighting, the screams...they all amp up this movie for an experience that creates the vibes. But I've got a lot of questions, and the remaining movies maybe all that can answer it.

Summary: Michael Myers is on the loose after escaping his transition from one asylum to another. The fact that Michael mercilessly targets and kills young teenagers, preferably blonde females, makes him one dangerous guy to end up escaping. Laurie is a girl living in a nearby neighborhood that Michael has escaped into, and very soon not only is she in danger but her friends as well.  Halloween night though is when things get scary as Michael begins targeting them, and setting out to get them one by one.

And so the movie begins as every horror movie after it would feel inspired to, with an incredibly eerie setting, preferably a two story house, and a teenage girl in danger. Now I did really feel compelled by the beginning of this movie. I think they did a great job of building the suspense. Carpenter utilizes a technique that seems new, or at least I don't remember seeing it used. We get the perspective of the killer though as he hunts his first victim. It sets up for a terrifying scene, Carpenter sets up the tone of the lighting to be perfection for the movie in various scenes, especially at the end as the killer begins finally killing his victim. The element that helps most of all is the music.

The music is very intense, and it shows that Carpenter really knows how to make it perfection when it comes to putting backing music with his horror movies. If you question this then also watch Christine. I actually prefer Carpenter's Christine to Halloween. Anyways, the music is where it is at, because without it I don't know that half the terror that is built would be built if not for it.

The acting leaves a bit to be desired though. For a movie with so much to analyze as far as cultural norms, and perhaps even the tampering of trying to identify with the killer? The acting just leaves the movie feeling standard. After all I hear about Jamie Lee Curtis, and even seeing her in a few things, she had a rough start in the first Halloween. It's basically her just weeping, being perfect, and remaining pretty lifeless. The same can be said for the rest of the crew too. They have sex, do some drugs, and get killed. Which leaves us with ever popular movies that sort of seem to make a satire of it, like Scream, of the killer's credentials for seeking out victims. The virgins stay alive, and well the others die.

You may be wondering why the killer sought this crowd to kill? And if the movie didn't seem so basic I might have been wondering this more as I finished watching as well, but instead the characters just didn't feel layered. If I had to make a judgement about it though, I would assume he is seeking out killing these teens because he never got to live out his teen years or feel normal as they have. Even as a kid, Michael Myers, knew he was weird, and instead of battling it, he just sought it. I wouldn't say he dictates who he kills by if he thinks they are doing right or wrong though...he seems to go after anyone in my opinion.

281 of 1001 Movies: The Shining (1980)

Earlier this year I read The Shining for the first time. I have certain movies I won't watch, until I've read the book, and this was one of them. I also found it intriguing that Stephen King has such hate for the movie considering other adaptations, like, you know...Under the Dome. The Shining definitely differs in a lot of ways, and Kubrick adds all his own touches to the film. I can't say that so far I'm hugely sold on Kubrick, but his stylish yet minimal way of shooting is entrancing, and brings out the horror more than anything else could.

Summary: Jack Torrance finds an opportunity for good work at the Overlook hotel. Upon being hired for the job it comes with a warning. The last family that lived there alone for the winter turned into a tragedy of a story. Jack takes the job with no hesitance though, and moves into the hotel for the winter with his wife, Wendy, and son, Danny. At first the weeks begin peacefully until the horrors that have happened in the hotel in the past bring the hotel to life, and it consumes Jack and Danny in very different ways.

The Shining is a classic horror movie that anyone, horror fan and not alike, have heard of. There a couple of reasons the movie is a classic. One being the performance of Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance, and the direction of Stanley Kubrick. This is one of the few movies that even a non-Kubrick fan can enjoy as for the first time he seems to drop a lot of the deeper and psychological analyzing in this movie, in lieu of just giving straight horror.

Jack Nicholson does a great job as the guy Jack Torrance, at least in making him look psycho. Movie wise there is no other guy you can imagine doing it. I don't know if this can be more attributed to the script, I would assume so, but the guy starts out crazy and ends crazy. Perhaps it's just me, or the fact I read the book, but I would have liked to see a guy who was more so a victim of his of his own weakness who was trying to be really just a good guy. Ultimately, that is one of the huge differences in the vibe between the book and movie. For Danny especially, he really wants to love his dad, and the moments his dad shows him love as a father, you have hope for Jack. Jack though battles with a lot of demons, most strongly alcohol. Without all those elements at play it makes the hotel taking him over look a little less scary, because they never had a guy to corrupt from the place he worked hard to recover from. Plus, the whole issue with Danny and The Shining, and what the shining even is seems a lot less prominent, and even not understandable in comparison to how the story could have played it.

As said, this is shocking considering Kubrick adapted the likes of, A Clockwork Orange. Maybe that is because I never cared for the writing of that book though, so the adaptation was clearer to me. It seems like he would be good at throwing us into the chaos of a troubled mind, particularly one that is naturally bad and you can't change no matter how much is tried. The huge different between the lead character in that one and Jack Torrance, is that Torrance was actually a guy the audience could try to hope changed because he wasn't hardened in the heart yet, but the movie makes it out that he is. The direction though is very sleek and Kubrick though. Everything from the scenes involving Redrum to the ending scenes in the garden capture the terror you imagine when choosing to watch a movie like this, and Kubrick still holds his own style in the middle of it all.

Overall,The Shining is a horror classic. For the time it was released it wasn't anything like the horror that was really driving the market of then, and it does have real terrifying moments. I hate to sound pretentious, but it's more so horror for the fan who doesn't want to openly like the genre of horror as a whole. By the way, I should bring up the only I didn't like about the movie because it was a distraction, and that was Shelley Duvall as Wendy. Why she was ever cast I don't know? Her role is just screaming, and running around in bewilderment. She doesn't contribute much, and isn't near as strong as the book version of her. Otherwise, I did enjoy the changes in the ending, was really terrified, and will drag the movie back out again for Halloween sometime.

280 of 1001 Movies: Fahrenheit 9/11

Several years ago when John Kerry and George W. Bush went up against each in the election, there was a movie that was released around the same time, and it would become the biggest earning documentary still to this day. The movie for some was just a biased opinion, and for some it had views they could believe. It really just depended on the political party you were in. What we do know is that Michael Moore isn't a fan of George.

Summary: George Bush was elected president in a way that was very whirlwind. Almost so much so, no one even knows how the election really ended up with the whole Florida debacle. Anyways, not long after being elected President Bush would have a lot of defining events happen during his presidency. This would also lead to much speculation from the public, and scrutiny, while some were left supporting the ideas. Whatever your thoughts Michael Moore tries to go really in depth in to why he thinks the way he does. He conducts interviews, he stakes out buildings, and he shares what his bases are in what he believes and why.

Plot: Going into this movie it's just safe to say depending on the political party that you already identify with will be what you think of this movie. I don't think this movie will convert conservatives to changing their minds about Republicans, or something, and I think when it was released it mainly just viewed to the crowd who already believes or speculates much the same. Anyways, regardless I think the movie will provide some food for thought.

There is a reason that Moore is so popular, and viewed, and that is because with the variety of movies he has released we can all witness a guy who doesn't cater to any party. If he thinks you're up to something fishy then he will cover it and expose it. I honestly think the positive for him is that he doesn't ever seem to be feeding into a politicians agenda just for the sake of feeding into a party. Now the movie has it's weak points though in covering the thoughts he has on Bush. Because even if you do agree the hate that you can hear in Moore's voice for the GOP and Bush are just too present, and perhaps that is the problem with narrating your own movie. You are already passionate about this subject, and well anyone watching is going to hear in your own voice how much you already despise the topic. Plus, there were moments where I felt Moore was talking about some legitimate issues with the system, like who is targeted for the military, and yet the tone of his voice sounds so relaxed and almost proceeding in a comical way as he has with various points of the movie. Perhaps I'm just looking at how my own emotions got when viewing those topics in the movie but I definitely didn't feel that any of the topics were comical as much as a I did a form of victimizing and causing terrible acts to fall on innocent people. I just found nothing very funny as I did shocking about what was being alleged in the movie.

The movie is a good overview though of some things to think on once you finish viewing. Depending how staunch on one side or moderate you are will be the guidance of how you ultimately feel about this one though. I think some little touches here an there would have strengthened it, like a different narrator, or a less relaxed approach in telling the facts. I understand that Moore narrated because he might feel he is the most passionate about the subject matter, and might be the best to share, but for me it took a few to get into. It hits an interesting pattern though, and if I doubt it will be hard not for someone to at least give an ear to what Moore has to say.

279 of 1001 Movies: The Elephant Man (1980)

After watching Blue Velvet I didn't respond how I had hoped to a David Lynch movie. I then unknowingly rented The Elephant Man without the knowledge it was  Lynch movie till I researched in the moments of watching. It gave me hope that I can be a fan of Lynch's movies, and it's revived the interest I had in seeing Eraserhead. The great direction is one thing, but I don't know if more so the power of The Elephant Man is more in the acting and story than it is Lynch's talent.

Summary: Frederick Treves is a doctor who stumbles upon a sideshow freak act, The Elephant Man, who's name is John Merrick. John though is known to no one else but as The Elephant Man though. Treves though takes interest at first in only Merrick's value as a new piece of study in finding what has caused his body to become deformed as it has. Instead Treves strikes up a friendship with Merrick, and introduces him to society as more than just a freak show act.

Acting: Anthony Hopkins is the noticeable lead in this movie as Fredrick Treves. Hopkins brings his best as he usually does in a story about a man who is fighting his own want to be known for a new discovery in the doctor field by finding John, and also his own growing friendship with John who is beginning to convict him of how he is using him. He rides the line well, and still makes Treves feel like a real guy. The less noticeable lead who is John Hurt as John Merrick. Hurt brings one of his best roles to life as the guy who has been ridiculed by society for his appearance. Considering he was wearing more costume makeup than I've ever seen, he still brings the emotions through enough even though he can't make a lot of facial expressions. You still grow to really like John. There are also other cameos in the movie that are worth watching for like Anne Banecroft as the actress, Ms. Kendal. Even with her short appearances she adds a lot to the movie. There is John Geiglud as Carr Gomm who helps Treves navigate his treatment of John Merrick as well.

Plot and Filming: There has been a lot of questions as to why the movie was filmed in black and white, and in some ways I don't know how after watching you could even ask? The movie wouldn't have captured the time period the same way, and I imagine the makeup artistry just wouldn't have looked as good had the movie been in color. There is an atmosphere about the time in England they are trying to capture that is so much better brought to life in black and white, and I'm not someone who would often say that.

As for the story, it's based on a real account of a man who had the same physical deformities. The fact that it is based on his story makes the movie that much more impacting and tragic. This movie I don't think is to leave you with any greater deeper knowledge about the world than most might already know, but it is a reminder of how we treat others affects them, and how the norm for us isn't the one for others. At the very least you are getting the account of someone told that did exist, and become aware of some interesting historical stories that exist out there.

I ended up enjoying The Elephant Man more than I expected. Lynch throws in his own bought of being an artist in how he captures the flashbacks of Merrick's childhood without giving us a full blown flashback. For those searching for some deeper connection, that just isn't what this movie is about. It seems more powerful emotionally in a more human and personal way.

278 of 1001 Movies: Horror of Dracula (1958)

It's no secret that I really love horror movies, or at least horror movies from the 90's and before. I can't think of many that really have sold me since the 2000's started. If I had to pick a favorite decade it really is a toss up between the 70's and 80's. Before those decades though there were ones to inspire those, and they are some strong contenders for some of the best of the best like Horror of Dracula. It's creepy, a little over the top, and gives a great go at old school horror of the 30's and 40's even though this was the 50's moving into the 60's.

Summary: Jonathon Harker arrives to much mystery at the castle of Dracula, where he thinks he has arrived to just be a manager of estates. He ends up attacking Dracula though, and setting off a series of dangerous events for his own family after Dracula finds an attraction to Harker's fiancee. Now he is stalking his family, and the only help they might have is with Van Helsing who knows more about what is happening than he is letting on.

Acting: Christopher Lee might be best known currently for his role in the Lord of the Rings movies, but he at one time made the staple performance of Dracula. He is the strongest actor of the movie, and does create a really eerie Dracula. If you're into a less gory Dracula, or even darker one for that matter, then you might be into this version that goes more into the traditional portrayal. Now the other actors went a bit more traditional too in their acting of terror. With lots of over done faces and lots of high pitched screaming to last you a while. Peter Cushing is Dr. Van Helsing, and while it was a little over the top it makes the movie a bit more worth watching.

Filming: This is one of the first horror movies I know of that was done in color. While I love the color, and feel that technicolor is really beautiful, it does detract from some of the horror that you get from the older movies. You may lack in a lot of gore or frightening images that occurs later in movies, but the black and white layers on mystery you don't normally get with modern movies. Regardless, I have to say I love the color, and the fun of an old school horror movie is still there.

Plot: This movie seems even more vaguely based on the book than other versions I have seen. They did make a series from this first movie though. It seems the goal before the 70's was to cram a horror movie into at least 80 minutes. There may have been a few that pushed further than that but a 90 minute horror movie was like the Ben Hur of horror for the day. Anyways, I still think they do a good job of summing up the story, and considering they don't give you much more to work with as far as characters here you might as well pull out the frights and end.

If you're into checking out, or even continuing to watch classic horror movies then this is a good one. To be honest there are very few weak ones considering the formula they all stick to is quite the same. There are others that try to dig the characters to be a little deeper, and by 1958 well you were just churning out horror characters.

277 of 1001 Movies: Kill Bill Vol.1 (2003)

Though I haven't been amazing at keeping up posts I keep trying to get back into it. Along with that might come some revamping soon. Anyways, for now here is a review of a movie I recently watched and enjoyed, Kill Bill Vol. 1. I have to say I was a bit skeptical going into it. I've loved all the Tarantino movies I've seen so far, but I felt like this one might throw me off with the martial art aspects of it, especially since my husband doesn't like the movie. I came out really enjoying it though, and I found the movie intensely fun to watch.

Summary: A woman only known as the Bride, wakes up from a coma to find herself living a nightmare to know that her wedding didn't happen, and the baby she was pregnant with died. Now she is out to seek revenge on those that destroyed her life, but these people she at one time thought she could trust. There also just as skilled and trained in fighting as she is, but her vengeance is a strong force, and her targets will hopefully lead to her main one, Bill.

Acting: The lead is the well cast, Uma Thurman, as The Bride. I haven't seen Thurman in much, but there is something about her in this movie that radiates the best amount of silence and kick butt with a lot of emotions going on to make the portrayal more realistic. My favorite other thing about Tarantino movies is how random the cast can get. From television actors to big Hollywood actors you never know who will pop up. Daryl Hannah appears as one of the assassins who gives off only bad, and then there are ones like Vivica A. Fox's character who we know is bad yet somehow Tarantino gets us to feel a little for her. One of the more stand out performances outside of Thurman's though is really Lucy Liu as O-Ren Ishii. She is one of the final targets of The Bride's in this movie, and it leads to one of the best final epic scenes to a movie I've watched. The battle is intense and keeps you compelled for all the minutes it runs between them. David Carradine is Bill though, and the hopes of more from him are yet to come.

Filming: I have to come to know that I love the bold colors that Tarantino utilizes in his movies. You can always expect gore and revenge with Tarantino, and if that isn't your thing then you might want to pass on his movies. It would be interesting to know why that does drive many of his plots though. Somehow he makes it where it isn't the gore that stands out to you, and he does let the characters shine for more so there endeavors in revenge that comes off as selfless.

Writing: There aren't many current movies I watch in this genre that enthrall me. It utilizes some vibe about old school horror and action that I really enjoy. The final scenes are barely any talking yet the feelings of betrayal and revenge are oozing off the screen, and even though it's obvious who comes out on top during these scenes, that is if you're aware this series is getting a third movie soon, then you might expect you don't feel as much anticipation on what will happen, but I felt the same suspense I would not knowing the outcome.

Kill Bill Vol. 1 is allowing Tarantino to explore a bit more of his love for kick butt women in this movie. Where they might take second screen in movies like Inglorious Basterds, they instead take the forefront of this movie. He proves that women can be just as entertaining and fitting for these parts as male can for these movies.

276 of 1001 Movies: Doctor Zhivago (1965)

With someone who has such a terrible attention span, sometimes tackling a movie that is an epic romance and drama is not something I should choose to do. This movie though for the romantic at heart knows how to pull at you, and even in a recent Entertainment Weekly was listed as the romance of it's era in the 60's, falling into the same list with Titanic that made the romance of it's era in the 90's. For me though there was something very intense and over dramatic that kept me from really getting into the characters though.

Summary: Yuri is a poet, but while he struggles with his writings he finds himself being a doctor. In this three hour epic though his life changes drastically for a man who married a woman, and started a family, and expected to hope to settle down normally, after he meets the wife of a political activist that he falls for. He now is tempted to pursue her especially as the revolution draws them closer together. For Yuri though a lot is at risk as he gets closer to Lara.

275 of 1001 Movies: Breaking the Waves (1996)

After seeing a couple of movies from controversial director, Lars Von Trier, I thought I was prepared to go into watching Breaking the Waves knowing it would be dark and odd, but unlike the other movies I've seen from him this had an ingredient the others didn't quite have, and that was heart. With performances that actually feel real, and not just odd for the sake of being weird you actually begin to feel the emotions happening in the movie. This was a good movie, but so emotional that I could only watch it once. It made me feel what the movie was feeling, but I also would never want to experience it again.

Summary: Bess feels on top of the world after she is married to the man she loves, Jan. She is warned by her very religious and uptight village though that she shouldn't marry a man that is unfamiliar to their village. Soon after they are married Jan has to return to his job as an oilman. Bess is devastated that he is gone, and is desperate to find any way she can have him return sooner. She prays that God will bring him home, and well she gets her prayer fulfilled. Jan does come home, but only after an incident leaves him paralyzed from the neck down. Now Bess believes that the more sexual acts she does with other men the chances of him healing can happen.

274 of 1001 Movies: Down By Law (1986)

I've watched a few Jim Jarmusch movies by now, and while I can appreciate it I also can't help but feel something is keeping me from getting into them as I would hope. Broken Flowers was great, and I can see the value in Dead Man, but once you watch Down By Law then you may be less enthused with Dead Man. I know about I'm about to sound "film dumb", but I can't get into black and white very well after the method of using black and white became an artistic choice, and not just an automatic default. Jarmusch though chose a great cast to lead this film, which keeps it alive with characters at least.

Summary: DJ Zack and Jack, a pimp, both end up in prison. They were framed, but didn't really care enough to fight it. It seems they feel their lives were bound to catch up with them. When an Italian immigrant, Roberto, gets locked away with them they begin plotting how to escape. Roberto has some distracting eccentrics they utilize. Anyways, their journey from the prison to their escape will be a learning experience for these guys as well.

273 of 1001 Movies: Dersu Uzala (1975)

 Now I can see the appeal of this movie that is based on the works of a Russian man who met a man, Dersu Uzala, and wrote about the time he spent with him. For me this wasn't the most interesting of movies to watch though, but for men they may like the whole explorer and friendship aspect. I felt there were a lot of opportunities to explore the history of the time, and a lot else, but instead it's limited to a whole bunch of interactions. It's a movie filled with dialogue.

Summary: Arsenev is a Russian explorer who is sent into the wilderness with his team into Siberia on an expedition. When he gets there though he finds that it's more than he can really handle, but when he meets a local hunter, Dersu Uzala, he begins to learn survival skills that will help them survive and complete their expedition. They depart only to meet again years in the future, but since Dersu Uzala has aged so has the map of the world and what he is able to help with.