On the set: Winona Ryder
Monday, 23 May 2016
Shock Waves (1977)
Visitors to a remote island discover that a reclusive Nazi commandant has been breeding a group of Zombie soldiers.
Sunday, 22 May 2016
Dial 1119 (1950)
A former mental patient murders a bus driver, then takes refuge in a bar, where he holds the patrons hostage.
Saturday, 21 May 2016
Cat People (1982)
A young woman's sexual awakening brings horror when she discovers her urges transform her into a monstrous black leopard.
I remember how excited I was when this one was released in 1982, a remake of the classic Cat People by Paul Schrader and Nastassja Kinski in it! The movie itself was a complete disappointment, such a mess, it doesn't even come near the subtleties of Tourneur's original.
Seing it again after such a long time hasn't helped, it' still not a better movie. Of course a genre pic needn't be plausible, but here the storyline is as if ridiculing the premise. Kinski is worth the watch, though.
On renewed viewing: it still has a silly plot, but some atmospheric scenes and - Nastassja Kinski.
Halliwell (no star): "One presumes that among the eroticism and bloodlust a statement is being made, but it is never evident."
Maltin**: "Sexy, bloody, technically well crafted, but uneven and ultimately unsatisfying; Schrader seems more concerned with camera angles and nudity than coherent storyline."
Eve's Bayou (1997)
Over the course of a long, hot Louisiana summer, a 10-year-old black girl discovers that her family's affluent existence is merely a facade.
Grand and fascinating Southern family drama that successfully studies the opalescent layers of truth and guilt behind situations; the wonderful cast gives the complex story credibilty and the excellent cinematography creates a realism steeped in a Southern Gothic atmosphere.
Halliwell**: "A family saga seen through the distacing eyes of a child; it is an itriguing story of shifting memories and blame, as the truth of situations change."
Maltin***: "Absorbing tale...Exeptional cast, led by young Smollett, give credence to the often fanciful story, which is drenched in Southern gothic atmosphere. Impressive writing and directing debut for Lemmons."
Friday, 20 May 2016
Beyoncé: Lemonade (2016)
A view of a woman's journey through life.
Powerful and intensefeminist audio-visual poem (or call it musical, if you like) aesthetically reminiscent of Terence Malick's recent work; a treat for eyes and ears.
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