nicorama

Syndromes and a Century (2006)

(DVD)

Verdict: Some well crafted shots > very slow > little to no character goals, desires, development, just time spent. Interesting to a point.

Atonement (2007)

(DVD)

Verdict: Technically a very strong film — directing, cinematography, but the narrative is a bit too sentimental, and Keira Knightley is not the best of actors. Also of note, Anthony Minghella appears as the interviewer at the end of the film, in the present day. The beginning of the film, the first 30 minutes or so, are much stronger narratively compared to the rest of the film. The multiple points-of-views, the deceptive appearances, the sexual suggestions are very well depicted internally, though the eyes of the younger sister — reminds one in a slight way to The Diving Bell and the Butterfly. The long take on the beach is quite remarkable but does not provide much information.

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)

(DVD)

Verdict: Much stronger sequel, but for an archaeologist Indiana Jones sure destroys a lot of artifacts!

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)

(DVD)

Verdict: A very weak sequel, which loses much of the adventure atmosphere that made Raiders so exciting. This is mostly studio, and it shows.

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

(DVD)

Verdict: Obvious in many ways, but a great, fun, easy-to-watch classic.

Love in the Afternoon (1957)

(DVD)

Verdict: The Gypsies are fantastic! A musical accompaniment at all times.

Gimme Shelter (1970)

(BCForum at SBCC)

Verdict: Still excellent > only two days since I last saw it.

Thou Shalt Not: Sex, Sin and Censorship in Pre-Code Hollywood (2008)

(DVD)

Verdict: Interesting film of many unavailable films.

Gimme Shelter (1970)

(DVD)

Verdict: Incredible film!

Monterey Pop (1968)

(DVD)

Verdict: The Hendrix sequence and the Ravi Shankar performance are extraordinary!