(8935,1633,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1204816800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Lee Chang-dong\'s Secret Sunshine (S. Korea / 2007)','Review: \r\n\r\nLee Chang-dong\'s exceptional \"Secret Sunshine\" is the single most emotionally ravaging experience of the year. It is an instantly sobering, brutally honest character piece on the reverberations of loss and a graceful memento mori that resonates with a striking density of thought, yet remains as inscrutable as the emotions it observes. Through its layered naturalism and stunningly trenchant view of small-town dynamics, Lee implicitly deconstructs the traditional Korean melodrama by pulling apart the cinematics of excess and ripping to shreds the arcs that shape its characters and grounds the proceedings into a crushing grind of stoic realism. \r\n\r\n\"Secret Sunshine\" remains an immensely compelling, fluid work throughout its 142-minute runtime. Its bravura first hour is filled to the brim with subtextual insinuations, remarkable foreshadowing and adroit reversals of tone brought about by humanistic capriciousness. Adapted from a short story, Lee infuses the film with his sensitivity for the sublime paradoxes of life, last seen in his transgressively comic and irreverent \"Oasis\". Understanding how personal revolutions are forged when views of our universe are changed, Lee not only sees the emotional cataclysm of a widow\'s sorrow through an inquiring scope but also feels the tumultuous existential currents that underpin the film when religion becomes a narrative scapegoat in comprehending the heinousness of the human experience. \r\n\r\nDo-yeon Jeon\'s (\"You Are My Sunshine\") Best Actress accolade at Cannes in 2007 is well deserved. Her performance as the widow Shin-ae remains an unrelenting enigma. As a character pulled apart by forces beyond her control, the sheer magnificence of this performance is central to the film\'s turbulent nature. With Jeon essaying one cyclonic upheaval after another, there\'s a tremulous sense of collapse that the film, to its credit, never approaches. Instead it finds a delicate balance that saps the charged theatricality and subsequent banality from ordinary tragedies and its fallouts. She becomes the centre of the film\'s universe as well as ours. Filmed in glorious handheld CinemaScope, the film demolishes the cinematicism of frames and compositions by becoming visually acute just as it is quietly harrowing when the camera never relinquishes its gaze from Shin-ae through times of happiness, guilt and remorse. \r\n\r\nLee captures the details of life in the small, suspicious town of Miryang - the awkwardness of communal situations, its uncomfortable silences and its devastations spun out of personal dramas. Shin-ae\'s interactions with the townsfolk rarely inspires dividends, especially when they are merely done out of obligation to fit in for the sake of her son, Jun (Seon Jung-yeop). The one recurring acquaintance is Jong-chan (Song Kang-ho), a bachelor mechanic of uncertain intentions who helps her en route to Miryang in the film\'s enchanting open sequence set to a captivating stream of sunlight. Song has situated himself as a comedic anti-hero in South Korea\'s biggest films but his nuanced, low-key delivery here purports the director\'s thought process of never having to reveal more than plainly necessary. \r\n\r\nIf pain is ephemeral, then grief can never truly dissipate. And Lee finds complexity in subsistence. When Shin-ae attempts to head down the path of reconciliation only to be faced again with unimaginable heartbreak, she unsuccessfully employs the fellowship of evangelical Christianity as a foil to her sorrow. But Lee knows better than that when he understands that religion, in the context of the human canvas of strife and misery, is never a simple solution. But Lee never rebukes the essence of religion as he realises the value of salvation for some through a higher power even if it serves a form of denial in others. The scenes in its latter half which deal with religion doesn\'t allow itself to become aggressively scornful, which is a feat in itself considering how many filmmakers let the momentum of the material take over from what they need to say to be true to its story and characters. \r\n\r\nLee\'s first film since his call to office as his country\'s Minister of Culture and Tourism is an uncompromising dissertation on human suffering. In a film so artless and genuine, it arduously reveals that there\'s nothing as simple as emotional catharsis, just the suppression and abatement of agony. \"Secret Sunshine\" leaves us with tender mercies pulled out of evanescence, and points towards a profound understanding of despair and faith.','2a90a2aed573054e3d9a17619b852470',0,'','tWf0S6T5',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8936,1634,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185268500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Tuya\'s Marriage (Tu Ya De Hun Shi) (2007) (China)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Wang Quan An\r\nCast: Yu Nan, Bater, Sen Ge\r\n\r\nThis film garnered the Golden Bear at Berlin International Film Festival 2007.\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nThe film tells the story of Tuya whose husband was injured when he tried to dig a well. Although she was initially reluctant to divorce and re-marry, she soon faced the risk of hurting her backbone permanently if she persisted in handling all demanding chores of the family. Eventually, she gave in to her husband\'s request to divorce and re-marry, but her condition to the proposal was -- her ex-husband had to stay with them and be taken care of as well ...\r\n\r\nMy Thoughts\r\n\r\nI particularly like three aspects of the film ... \r\n\r\n-- THE LINES (realism and humor).\r\nAs the film does not thrive on a convoluted plot nor an intense pacing, we are allowed to live life like the herders do. I particularly like the realism in the lines delivered. They are not crafted to philosophize but they speak much of human relationships in real life ... say, the conversation btw the couple, the conversation btw the kid and his mum, or the neighbor, etc ...\r\n\r\nIn particular, I would like to highlight (because few reviews mentioned it) ... I actually thought it is rather amusing to watch the neighbor (Sen Ge) in action ... ha ha ha ... you can\'t help but chuckle at the scenes whereby he appeared ... not slapstick humor, not those hearty laughters, but it might just bring about a smile or a chuckle ... \r\n\r\n-- THOUGHTS ABOUT LIFE. \r\nIf one is willing to scrutinize beyond the obvious plot of Tuya scouting for a new husband, I thought lots of issues are being raised\r\n... about the love of life (especially)\r\n... the spirit of survival\r\n... the meaning of marriage\r\n... the future of family\r\netc etc etc\r\n\r\n-- THE ENDING. \r\nI think the film ends very well, hinting at the complextity and irony in life. Often, hope and helplessness are intricately intertwined ... When an old problem is seemingly successfully resolved, we are confronted with an entire set of different problems that come forth with the resolution and an uncertain future ... that is LIFE ...\r\n\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nHighly recommended. A deceptively simple film that chronicles and celebrates life ... Even though audience do feel the underlying helplessness at times, the film never loses its sense of humanity, hope and even humor!','b35a7670395a0de93471f59bc973650b',0,'','QF7VGwDl',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8937,1634,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185287280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Tuya\'s Marriage (Tu Ya De Hun Shi) (2007) (China)','You\'re lucky to see so much East Asian cinema hengcs, the sad thing is, most of the ones you do see are unlikely to ever receive a dvd (never mind theatrical) release here in the U.K.\r\n\r\nKeep up the good work though, at least you\'re likely to provide business for the import companies. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','fef13295320fc5edabb4b89ae338357a',0,'','tocLrUys',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8938,1634,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185338460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Tuya\'s Marriage (Tu Ya De Hun Shi) (2007) (China)','Since you are keen on this film, here is the DVD, with English subtitles.\r\nclick\r\nglobal.yesasia.com/en/Prd...004778604/\r\n\r\nWith the British Pound ... I guess it is rather affordable for you ... as for me, it is still quite an amount ... ha ha ha ... ;P\r\n\r\nPS: As usual, do not expect an intense film. Just sit down and enjoy it. It works its power slowly ... I think the film wins with its powerful message about LIFE and surviving all odds ...','e14c9d319357254c34740e45ae740b09',0,'','JMihf1VN',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8939,1634,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190981280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Tuya\'s Marriage (Tu Ya De Hun Shi) (2007) (China)','According to this Chinese article,\r\nclick\r\nent.sina.com.cn/m/c/2007-...3751.shtml\r\n\r\nthe film is doing very well in France, Germany, Italy and Europe (i.e., for a foreign film) ...','75a17f7ad77a38d16d0bf0f94fbc544b',0,'','9rxJVowP',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8940,1635,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190947140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Jindabyne (2006) (Australia)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Ray Lawrence\r\nCast: Gabriel Byrne, Laura Linney, Chris Haywood\r\n\r\nThe official website\r\nclick\r\nhttp://www.sonyclassics.com/jindabyne/\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nBased on the short story of So Much Water So Close to Home by Raymond Carver, the story tells of 4 men who think nothing much of a \"harmless\" act (in their opinion) but get themselves, their family and their community into trouble, including racial tension ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\nWhat I like ...\r\n\r\n(i) THE PLOT/PACING ...\r\nBecause I did not read any synopsis prior to watching, I have to admit that ...\r\n-- the initial 5 minutes or so is engaging ...\r\n-- the next 20-30 minutes is less thrilling ... they are \"paving\" the way as the film moves on to several protagonists and their daily lives. In a way, it is realistic about \"normal\" people but in another way, the audience may not know where the film is exactly going ... \r\n-- the last 1.5 hrs is engaging ... the moment we see the discovery of a corpse, the film grips and has remained engaging throughout ... that is why I end up liking the film ...\r\n\r\nPS: for a moment, I did wonder if the film is based on a real story ... but later I gather, it is NOT ...\r\n\r\n(ii) The INTERPRETATION\r\nThe film can be interpreted at several layers\r\n-- at its simplest, it is just about 4 men who happen to do the wrong thing, and get the community into racial tensions ...\r\n-- at another level, it may be about the Whites versus the Aborigines in Jindabyne (and Australia) ...\r\n-- at other level, it may be about traditions/past versus modernization/future ...\r\n-- and regardless of level, there are issues of life, death, love, hate, young, old, etc\r\n\r\n(iii) THE ACTING ...\r\n-- The performance by the two leads are particularly engaging (i.e., Gabriel Byrne, Laura Linney). They portray very well \"normal\" people who are flawed but can be empathized with ... should you hate them or pity them?!\r\n-- The two kids also stole the show in some scenes ... wow ...\r\n\r\n(iv) THE MUSIC\r\nI like the soundtrack ... very haunting indeed ...\r\n\r\nWhat could be better ...\r\n\r\n(i) To some extent, I feel the starting shld be trimmed ... \r\nAnd to some extent, I think the ending is too \"politically correct\" ... the racial harmony tension becomes kind of resolved (dep on individuals, you may feel that it remains unresolved).\r\nAlso, I am okay with the very LAST scene, but I know that some people may be upset with that non resolution ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nRecommended, esp. the last two third of the film.\r\nIt comes across as a serious drama rather than a thriller ...\r\n\r\nSome people may not like the ending though ...','42f2ece983a8743c9096fab04f991054',0,'','UNX8f3uy',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8941,1636,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190948640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','The Sun Also Rises (2007) (China)','\r\n\r\nThe Sun Also Rises (Tai Yang Zhao Chang Sheng Qi) (2007) (China)\r\n\r\nDirector: Jiang Wen\r\nCast: Jaycee Chan, Jiang Wen, Joan Chen, Zhou Yun, Anthony Wong\r\n\r\nThe official website\r\nclick\r\nhttp://thesunalsorises.emp.hk/ (with English version)\r\nclick\r\nhttp://sun.sohu.com/ (the music at this website has a better \"feel\" of the period)\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\n\r\nediting ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\nediting ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nRecommended. I actually enjoy the film, although I am not overwhelmed by it. In particular, the 2nd segment is interesting and well acted. \r\n\r\nI humbly believe that the factor that appeals to those who love it is the same factor that makes others hate it. \r\n\r\n(1) In essence, the director does not explain many things (respecting the audience in their wisdom as well as inferences). By doing so, audiences can choose to believe what they think really happens or what are the underlying psychology in those characters ... thereby generating conversations out of these \"gaps\" in story telling ...\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, many audiences are likely walking out of the movie wondering what exactly is the director trying to tell (in terms of plot and messages). The many unexplained events/psychology may be baffling to many. They may then criticize the director for opting the \"easy\" way out, and leave the \"thinking\" to the audience ...\r\n\r\n(2) Critics/reviewers/film fanatics/etc may like to believe there are a lot of allegories, symbolisms, analogies, parallels, hints, nuances and what have you ...\r\n\r\nWhereas those who dislike the film will dismiss all these opinions as simply reading too much into the film, crediting the director for things that are never meant to be more than what they are ...\r\n\r\nSo, which side are you on? Do watch and decide for yourself.','43b806e318575daf59bbbb9e61d74e70',0,'','QhNjecuB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8942,1637,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190421960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Caetano x 2: Bolivia & Pizza, Beer & Smokes','[OP - 2005 / From Arg Journal]\r\n\r\nBOLIVIA (Argentina-Ned / 2001)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nArgentinas financial collapse of the late-90s, which resulted in vast socio-economic instabilities, has been broached since then in one form or another in numerous documentaries and films. Filmmaker Adrin Caetano (Pizza, Beer & Smokes [1997]), one of the numerous talented young filmmakers of the Argentinian New Wave, has attempted to expose that burgeoning underbelly of corruption and hatred in his excellent second feature, Bolivia. The films rather ironic title, however, also hints towards the fact that even in dire circumstances, Argentina was more or less still considered the \"land of opportunity\" for the denizens of its neighboring countries whove been in worst shape all along. Caetano, himself a Uruguayan immigrant, perhaps knows the account quite well. Like recent Argentinian films such as Pablo Traperos Crane World (1999) and Diego Lermans Suddenly (2002), Bolivia is shot in a gritty, neo-realistic fashion, thus enabling the aesthetic to help establish the overall tone of the film, which also takes a no-nonsense approach towards its simple yet powerful narrative. It concerns an illegal Bolivian immigrant, Freddy (Freddy Flores), whos come to Argentina in order to support his family back home. He lands a job as a cook in a small restaurant in Buenos Aires. Naturally, Freddy is unwelcomed for various reasons, most importantly being that hes taking an opportunity away from a local in that flailing economy. Freddys employer (Enrique Liporace) isnt paying him much, but hes certainly not in a position to negotiate. Caetanos protagonist simply wants to live and work in peace, but the rowdy patrons of the restaurant continue to make life difficult for him and a fellow waitress (Rosa Snchez) he\'s fallen for, which ultimately results in violence. Winner of a plethora of awards from major festivals like Cannes and Rotterdam, this 75-minute-film approaches its subject with the sort of humility thats rarely seen nowadays. And while doing so, it proves once again that important films can be made on a modest level.\r\n\r\n_____________________\r\n\r\n*BOLIVIA premiered at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival (Critics\' Week). \r\n\r\n*Available on U.S. DVD from New Yorker Video.\r\n\r\n*\"Watched the short but effective Bolivia today as part of my Latin American Cinema course. I liked how despite the tones of being \"realistic\" it didn\'t utilize a bunch of amateurish camera work and piss poor lighting. There is a way to be refined but unpolished and this film accomplished that. The limited running time also served it well because the film didn\'t feel stretched, and everything had its reason. The subject is of course relevant in this country with the substitution being Mexicans for Bolivians, however the debate remains the same. A cinema of desperation that somehow managed to not be moralizing in its tone\" (wpqx, 9/20/07).','6445312abb26ccba5c13a98259f311c0',0,'','iqKWjHfy',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8943,1637,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190422800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Caetano x 2: Bolivia & Pizza, Beer & Smokes','[OP 10/12/06 - Arg Journal]\r\n\r\nPIZZA, BEER & SMOKES (Argentina / 1997)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIn early to mid 90s, such acclaimed films as Rapado (1992) and Historias Breves (1995) paved the way -- both commercially and aesthetically -- for the new generation of Argentinian filmmakers now considered the \"New Wave.\" Historias Breves, a much heralded effort which comprised of 10 shorts, brought the likes of Adrin Caetano, Daniel Burman (Un Crisantemo Estalla en Cinco Esquinas [1998]), and Lucrecia Martel (La Cinaga [2001]) into the publics eye for the first time. For his remarkably assured debut feature, Pizza, Beer & Smokes (Pizza, Birra, Faso), the Montevideo-born Caetano decided to team up with filmmaker Bruno Stagnaro, whose short was also featured in the aforementioned film. Their joint effort ended up being one of the major early successes of the New Argentinian Cinema, and established a cult-like status among the youth, perhaps just as much for its colorful language (even the latter two words in the Spanish title of the film are local slangs) as for the pertinent socio-economic issues it conjured up. Shot via a documentary-style aesthetic and with a mostly non-professional cast, Pizza, Beer & Smokes features a gang of disaffected, unemployed street-youth who commit petty crimes in order to get by. Each endeavor introduces a new set of challenges for them which theyre barely able to meet. And this eventually ends up alienating the pregnant girlfriend (Pamela Jordn) of their leader, El Cordobs (Hctor Anglada), who is now forced to make a decision regarding the path he wants to traverse as the authorities close in. Certainly a premise ripe enough to be engaged in melodrama or didacticism, but Caetano and Stagnaro do away with both; instead, they channel their energies in implementing a gritty, low-key realism that the Dardennes\' films are regarded for. And speaking of great films, Buuel\'s Mexican masterpiece, Los Olvidados (1950), is paid an homage by the filmmakers in a sequence involving an attack on a paraplegic.\r\n\r\n_______________________\r\n\r\n*Available on DVD in the U.S. (Cinematica).','9fa10591ff3036ed50d649de46abe599',0,'','KZYAnbF9',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8944,1637,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190766780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Caetano x 2: Bolivia & Pizza, Beer & Smokes','I found the film a bit disappointing. Maybe I\'m just bothered by the whole concept of realism, a term which gets thrown around far too often. Why does \"realism\" have to imply a petty life of criminals? The film can be applauded for its non-moralizing tone but it fails in a way for its singular vision.','74f738c2c0b8f1e79f0b2d5de0cc94a0',0,'','KxencXC4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8945,1637,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190769240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Caetano x 2: Bolivia & Pizza, Beer & Smokes','I agree that this concept is utilized far too ofen as an expression for approval or admiration, but I don\'t see a problem with employing it as an explanatory tool. \"Realism\" doesn\'t imply \"petty life of criminals,\" it simply is the means through which the said life is depicted. Many filmmakers attempt to do so, but as we know, only a few truly succeed. The neorealistic Bolivia is certainly the superior film.','301a81658bd4ce538136670dc4eea417',0,'','DgYVzRLs',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8946,1637,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190863740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Caetano x 2: Bolivia & Pizza, Beer & Smokes','Agreed I think that said far more relevant things and focused on a situation that seems parallel to one in our own culture.','7b617ce0e5eee3bed5821c54ed10e65f',0,'','MGNUKmhf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8947,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144810320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Journal: ARGENTINA','Please utlilize this thread to review/discuss Argentinian Cinema. But if you prefer to start a new thread on a film, then also feel free to do so.\r\n\r\nINDEX (in order reviewed)\r\n\r\nPage 1 :\r\n\r\nFAMILIA RODANTE (Pablo Trapero / 2004)\r\nBOLIVIA (Adrin Caetano / 2001)\r\nANA Y LOS OTROS (Celina Murga / 2003)\r\nLOST EMBRACE (1) (Daniel Burman / 2004)\r\nINTIMATE STORIES (Carlos Sorin / 2002)\r\nLOST EMBRACE (2) (Daniel Burman / 2004)\r\nEL PERRO (Carlos Sorin / 2004) \r\nVALENTIN (Alejandro Agresti / 2002)\r\nNINE QUEENS (Fabin Bielinsky / 2000) \r\nPIZZA, BEER & SMOKES (Adrin Caetano / 1997)\r\n\r\n___________________\r\n\r\n*For more Argentinian film reviews, please visit our main FILM INDEX.','6fc10fef9c4c1e7adc5f4f5a2bcf077b',0,'','jlevurUW',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8948,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144843500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Thank\'s for starting this thread arsaib4, it\'ll be interesting to find out more about Argentinean cinema. For my contribution, here are my comments for a film I\'ve just seen.\r\n\r\nFamilia Rodante (2004) Rolling Family \r\n\r\nDirected by Pablo Trapero\r\n\r\nFeaturing Graciana Chironi, Marianela Pedano\r\n\r\nIts funny cos its true!\r\n\r\nThis is one of those films that hits you immediately (or the majority of us anyway), why? Because these people, this grouping, this matriarchal family structure is so universal.\r\n\r\nIts Grandmas birthday, we open with her sat at a garden table reminiscing with old friends, switch to the inside of the house, her daughters and grandchildren hustle and bustle, continuously getting in each others way or just being a nuisance as they prepare the celebration meal. \r\n\r\nThere is a war going on, sisters vie with each other for their mothers attention, this despite the fact that they have husbands, children of their own and their mother is at least 80 years old. Yes I know this family, I know this structure, Ive been there, seen it, done it, got the T-shirt. These are my in-laws and Ive no doubt there are many families that are exactly the same all around the world. \r\n\r\nDuring the celebrations Grandma receives a phone call, she has been invited to her nieces wedding, along with the entire family group, indeed she has been requested to be the matron of honour. So without further ado the family prepare for the 1,000+-km trip from Buenos Aires to the rural town of Misiones. \r\n\r\nNow the fun begins, twelve family members, from Grandma to great grandchild pack into a camper van for the journey that will take two days, cramped together like sardines, a true test for any family.\r\n\r\nApart from the bickering fretting daughters, there are the husbands and their children, in one case, a daughter (with best friend in tow), in the other a daughter (with a baby) and two sons. There is tension, not just between the wives/daughters but also between the husbands. There is also a case of kissing cousins (but the boy is far more interested in his cousins best friend) and further into the trek we meet the father of the great grandchild (who doesnt exactly get on with his partners father).\r\n\r\nBreakdowns, the steamy heat, young lust and familial tensions all add fuel to the fire on this trip of a lifetime but when Grandma speaks, everybody stops and listens. Will they make the wedding; indeed will they survive this trip intact? Only time will tell. \r\n\r\nThe film struck me with its reality and honesty, non actors took the majority of roles and together they felt like a real family, theres no deliberate comedy element, the humour is genuinely felt because you know these people. You may have been within a large family gathering such as this and if so I have no doubt that many of the occurrences will ring bells with you. \r\n\r\nWhile the family may feel universal, the film is without a doubt Argentinean, the constant references to mate (a form of herbal drink) which is known as Argentinas national drink. The countryside, from vast open plains to beautiful rugged wooded mountains, the police with their constant checks, and of course the horses, Gouchos and celebrations.\r\n\r\nRecommended? Yes, its a well-made film, nice performances and great views of Argentina. If it had been a Hollywood film, the comedy would have been laboured to the point of excess, as it is, if you find it amusing itll be for the right reasons. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rating 15\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Artificial Eye includes short \"making of\" doc.','c70e519bbc428e2c73a2f8794ed1d7ff',0,'','lJTVgbZn',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8949,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144891020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Good review. I liked the film quite a bit even though I think it\'s his third best: others being Crane World, which is one of the great Argentinian films of recent years, and El Bonaerense. Rodante has done quite well internationally, so hopefully it will not only help expose Trapero\'s previous work but raise awareness for his future projects as well.','2c6b82a2bd32b61bd9ca2a836d11bc94',0,'','27eXfy6a',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8950,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144896300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Thank\'s for your kind comments. Regarding Trapero\'s other films, El Bonaerence is definitely his biggest hit here so far, unfortunately Crane World hasn\'t been released, one day maybe.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','9286abf2933027f43b93eba23249b4e7',0,'','JBqDaYHX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8951,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144930500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','should we migrate the rest over?\r\nhee hee','f2cfdc8ea6ec2c388a07f0c38b59c003',0,'','D0JWzqjr',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8952,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144983780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','If there are single threads for films then I think we should let them be; I prefer not to make this an \"all-encompassing\" thread. But if you, or anyone else, wants to move their own reviews then that\'s great.','ed66213bfb51d5781f253c56c54b81c1',0,'','l005dbX6',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8953,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1145415540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','\r\n\r\nLost Embrace (El Abrazo Partido) (2004) (Argentina) \r\n\r\nDirector: Daniel Burman\r\nCast: Daniel Hendler, Adriana Aizemberg, Jorge D\'Ela\r\n\r\nI think I have written the review on the old foreignfilms.com\r\nI will re-edit this if I have the time ...\r\ntoo many movies to review, too little time ... hiaks hiaks ...\r\n\r\nThis movie has won the Jury Grand Prix (Silver Bear) and Best Acto r (Daniel Hendler) awards at the 2004 Berlin Film Festival. Without doubt, it represented Argentina in Oscar 2005.\r\n\r\nThe official site is here.\r\n\r\nhttp://www.ocean-films.com/lefilsdelias/accueil.htm\r\n\r\nWhat I like about the movie?\r\n-- The second half of the movie.\r\n-- Despite being a comedy, it is peppered with philosophy.\r\n-- The movie is pretty quick pace.\r\n-- The performance of the male protagonist and his mother.\r\n\r\nWhat may be problematic?\r\n-- I believe a lot is lost in translation. A number of jokes are either very cultural or embedded in the Spanish language. Well, pardon my ignorance, the audience sometimes laugh and I do not know why ... \r\n-- Likewise, the song that is sung by the grandmother is not translated/subtitled. Can someone please translate (if you have watched the movie)?\r\n\r\nNote: Do not leave the theater when the credit rolls, the grandmother will appear. In fact, there is a pun, she asked, \"Do you like it?\" Is she refering to her song? or the movie ... \r\n\r\n;PPP\r\n\r\nPS: Don\'t you think the original poster is much much better than the US version? \r\n\r\n__________________________\r\n\r\n[Edit]Trevor\'s Review.\r\n__________________________','45daa4084f66cc7b340b997a16e63a83',0,'','KTcvJZ35',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8954,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1145416980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','\"PS: Don\'t you think the original poster is much much better than the US version?\"\r\n\r\nGood point. The original does a better job portraying the film\'s central theme than the U.S. version. (One of the characters in the U.S. poster is barely part of the film.)\r\n\r\nAnyway, I liked the film, but perhaps not as much as you did. At times the film felt more like a stage play, which might have been the point. Loved the performance by Daniel Hendler though.','907f147b8edef8b1e73f4045f4aa28da',0,'','zl1r6Wi8',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8955,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1145861400,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Didn\'t like this one, and also didn\'t like the new one by Daniel Burman \"Derecho de familia\". I think he\'s a waaay too commercial director. And too cold and conservative for me. But Daniel Hendler is imo a revelation in both of them. The only reason for sitting through this kind of crowd-pleaser.\r\nThe people at cinema who watched \"Family Law\" seemed delighted.','9639c542c7fbd89a50f504aef925305c',0,'','btxnYezh',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8956,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1145864520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Hendler is also pretty good in Burman\'s earlier effort, Esperando al mesas (\"Waiting for the Messiah\"), which is arguably his best film so far. Compared to a few others, he\'s certainly more \"commercial.\" Haven\'t yet seen Derecho de familia.','402ed955006a613bc32970f4e0ad26fa',0,'','kqVRx7cg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8957,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1152893640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Historias Mnimas (2002) - Minimal Stories aka Intimate Stories \r\n\r\nDirected by Carlos Sorin \r\n\r\nA film that gives you exactly what it says, minimal stories, each set around journeys, each small but wonderfully humanistic tale leading to slight changes in the lives of the central characters. \r\n\r\nMaria, a young mother who lives in the sparsely populated town of Fitz Roy has to travel to San Julian to take part in a low budget T.V. quiz show. Justo, also from Fitz Roy is an old man who is treated like a child by his son and daughter in law, when he hears from a friendly lorry driver that his long lost dog Badface has been spotted in San Julian he decides to make his way there. Last but not least, Roberto is a salesman; hes been travelling the long roads and vast open plains of Patagonia for twenty years, every day is a journey for him but this day is special.\r\n\r\nJusto sneaks away from his home and family like a thief in the night, he knows his son will never let him go so this is his only option. Badface is his life and for reasons revealed later in the film, he feels the need to seek forgiveness from his dog. \r\n\r\nRoberto has had a birthday cake made for the son of a young widow; he has feelings for her and obviously sees this as an opportunity to spend some time with her. Although impressed with the cake it isnt quite as perfect as he would like, this leads to a series of trials and tribulations until he is at last satisfied with the end result.\r\n\r\nMarias trip is the easiest, we dont share the journey but meet up with her at the garish Multicoloured Casino, the T.V. quiz she will appear on. \r\n\r\nConnections and crossings are made between the characters throughout the film whether directly or indirectly, for instance Roberto picks up Justo in a caf and gives him a lift to San Julian, or while staying in a depot overnight, Justo switches the telly on as Multicoloured Casino starts with Maria as a contestant. \r\n\r\nThere are several other little things that tie the stories together as well, one of them is turtles but to explain further would necessitate adding spoilers. The characters may also be connected in a roundabout way, certainly Justo and Roberto but this is left vague and open to interpretation, it would certainly make the overall story more fate driven. \r\n\r\nThe vast wild desolate windswept plains of Patagonia and the beautiful skylines are integral to the journeys, especially for Justo who starts his 300 km journey on foot, you get the impression that this is one of the few areas of the world where you could still get truly close to nature.\r\n\r\nHistorias Minimas is a delightful film, no action, no violence, only a hint of romance and one of the scariest nurses Ive ever seen (and Ive seen quite a few in my time), it gets a big thumbs up from me. If you give it a chance, Im sure youll also appreciate and enjoy it.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15?\r\n\r\nR2 dvd available from Optimum Releasing. R1 dvd available soon from New Yorker Films.','2332ed68d1bd886f4d6301219a384b96',0,'','7Vq2ek0w',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8958,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1153404840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Import or Confront?\r\nBy Lorena Cancela\r\n\r\nwww.fipresci.org/undercur...import.htm','45e4ccda50a317f7f34b72818ae546d9',0,'','Ur83YgsF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8959,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1153520160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Interesting article.\r\nSeems like the same problem in all \"minor\" film countries. In Germany (or Slovenia) you also discuss basically foreign theories and place yourself in a position.\r\n\r\nquote:\r\nIn the end, the main thing is to think about the relationship that we establish with different theories and concepts. In order to, as Godard said, illuminate cinema. \r\n\r\nYeah, I guess that\'s the main thing. Of course we shouldn\'t forget that a theory is always a theory and just a theory. There are millions of it, and none hold the exclusive truth. But they can help you with your own theory (or praxis ) of film/life.\r\n\r\nTo Argentina:\r\nI\'m still illiterate regarding the New Argentinian film movement (or the \"old\" one), so your reviews are a grwat help.','63bf53d17d0c810f39a3797129c1d1c0',0,'','NkwpC1YQ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8960,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1156471320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Sorry, didn\'t realise there were already comments for this, but hey what the heck! The more the better.\r\n\r\nWhen is an Argentinian film not an Argentinian film?\r\n\r\nWhen it\'s Lost Embrace (2003) Directed by Daniel Burman.\r\n\r\nThis is a Jewish film that just happens to be situated in Buenos Aires. Set in a shopping mall that looks as though it\'s on the verge of collapse and given an extremely closeted claustrophobic feel by the hand held camera work we follow the main protagonist (Ariel) as characters are introduced around the different shops and stalls. \r\n\r\nAmong the traders are an Italian family, a Korean couple and Jewish people who emigrated from European countries at the time of the Holocaust. Ariel works in his mothers shop, his father left for Israel when he was a baby and all he wants to do is to leave Argentina to spend time travelling around Europe where he feels life will have so much more to offer.\r\n\r\nDreams and aspirations aside, Ariel has a deeply held resentment for the father he\'s never seen. Everything he does know about him has been passed down by his mother, as the film progresses and Ariel seeks family documents to get his passport sorted out, the truth about his father slowly and surely seeps out. \r\n\r\nIt\'s only when his father suddenly reappears towards the end of the film that Ariel comes to realise how much of the truth has been hidden from him down the years but there is little if any anger shown towards his mother for all the lies. Everything slides to a happy end with the family reunited as far as that is possible, as to whether Ariel will follow his dreams of going to Europe, who knows? \r\n\r\nI must say I didn\'t enjoy Lost Embrace, it isn\'t because there wasn\'t exactly much of a story or the performances. No, it was because it was non stop talk, talk, talk from start to end, it is meant to be a light comedy but it felt as though the whole Jewish angle was really overplayed where the cast ended up as stereotypes and caricatures rather than genuine characters. \r\n\r\nIf you thought that My Big Fat Greek Wedding was irritating then believe me, you are not going to enjoy this film. It was funny and bearable for around twenty minutes but by the time Ariels Grandmother bursts into song I was wishing I was anywhere except in the cinema. I don\'t think there was one Argentinian character in the whole film (though the porter may have been) and I found that slightly disturbing, come to think of it, there were hardly any customers either!\r\n\r\nSo I\'m sorry, Lost Embrace did absolutely nothing for me except irritate me.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15.\r\n\r\nFilm distributed by Axiom films in the UK.','aa023c19be687e906263f3ab0f8d9ad0',0,'','UD2TX8YF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8961,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1156529760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Moved from its original thread.\r\n\r\nEl Perro (2004) Bombon El Perro\r\n\r\nDirected by Carlos Sorin\r\n\r\nStarring Juan Villegas, Gregorio\r\n\r\nAn offbeat and optimistic road movie which like Historias Minimas from the same director is set in the wide-open plains of Patagonia. Juan (or Coco to his friends) has been sacked from his job as a garage attendant/mechanic after 20 odd years when it is sold, he lives with his daughter, her children and her feeble husband desperately trying to help make ends meet. \r\n\r\nAfter helping a stranded motorist, hes offered a pedigree Dogo in thanks and suddenly his life turns around! Thanks to some chance meetings, he gets together with a trainer and Bombon is entered and comes third in a dog show. Bombon is requested for studding duties but for some reason, hes not up to it so Coco leaves him with the trainer hoping he can sort out this little problem.\r\n\r\nBut Coca has become very attached to Bombon, he misses him so much that he goes to retrieve him only to find that Bombon has run away, the story then follows Cocos efforts to find him.\r\n\r\nThis is a very positive film, when we first meet Coco hes at his wits end and is pretty demoralised. Apart from trying to help his daughter hes also looking for work in an area that has very little to offer, especially for someone his age. Hope comes in the form of Bombon and surprising new options open up for Coco, the life that was drained flows back and despite his success with the dog show and the money to be made from studding, Coco remains down to earth and unassuming, just happier with life.\r\n\r\nThe performances are very natural, once again most of the cast aren\'t professioal actors. The wide and wild expanses of the Pategonian plains are shown in their full glory and the dog is a true performer. Bombon El Perro (as it has been marketed in the UK) is definitely worth at least a rental. If you enjoyed Historias Minimas I have no doubt at all that you will also enjoy this.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15.\r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Pathe, loaded with extras.','faded908cb5cff89094f07ae8c852389',0,'','VPMbvNiQ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8962,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1156530300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Moved from \'The Last Movie You\'ve Seen\' thread.\r\n\r\nValentn (Argentina - 2002)\r\n\r\nDirected by Alejandro Agresti\r\n\r\nStarring Carmen Maura, Julieta Cardinali, Rodrigo Noya\r\n\r\nA bittersweet drama about familial life, love and conflict through the eyes of a precocious 8 year old in late 60s Buenos Aries. \r\n\r\nValentin lives with his somewhat lonely and bitter Grandmother, (an excellent performance from Carmen Maura) while his father carries on with his own life which appears to add up to nothing more than working and dating. His mother disappeared with another man when he was a tot and hes never seen her since (listening to Valentins father and Grandmother you could understand why anyone would want to run away).\r\n\r\nAlthough he tries his best to be good, if Valentin says or does anything out of place, he gets an ear-bashing from his Grandmother who once started just rants on and on. He is a friendly child willing to help wherever possible and dreams of becoming an astronaut when he grows up, unfortunately (for him) hes also honest in a way that only a child can be, this honesty leads him into conflict with his father and at times with his Grandmother although he wouldnt intentionally hurt either.\r\n\r\nThe story is made up of a series of events that include his Grandmother becoming ill and his father finding yet another girlfriend, minor things but major aspects in the life of an 8 year old.\r\n\r\nA short but delightful feature at 79 minutes, honest and enjoyable.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated PG. \r\n\r\nR2 dvd released by Metrodome. The cover design must qualify as one of the blandest I\'ve ever seen.\r\n\r\nExtras include:\r\n\r\nTrailer.\r\nInterview with the Director Alejandro Agresti.\r\nCast and crew biographies.','9560a05e7e94bd9ba69771a270886d6c',0,'','wEKyD9PX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8963,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1156641300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Nine Queens (2000) Nueve Reinas\r\n\r\nDirected by Fabin Bielinsky\r\n\r\nStarring Gastn Pauls, Ricardo Darn, Leticia Brdice\r\n\r\nNine Queens is a taut well constructed crime drama that without the odd social comment could easily be from anywhere. The performances are good; the editing slick and the plot holds the viewers attention right to the end without the need for heavy violence, car chases, gunfights or explosions. Further than that it has a lot to say regarding the nature of people and how very easily any of us can be fooled. \r\n\r\nA young small-time con artist (Juan) tries to pull the same scam twice in a shop, second time around he gets caught out. A police detective who is also in the shop takes control of the situation and leaves with the Juan in tow.\r\n\r\nThe detective had been watching Juan and once clear of the shop reveals that he too is a fake, another confidence trickster (Marcos) but a far more experienced one. He convinces Juan to become his partner though its a very temporary arrangement, they agree to give it just one day to see how they get on together.\r\n\r\nIt doesnt take long before Juan realises that Marcos has absolutely no scruples at all, he has second thoughts about the partnership but then a telephone call changes everything.\r\n\r\nA con has been set up by another shyster but due to ill health he is unable to complete it, a scam to sell forged stamps (the Nine Queens of the title) to a multi-millionaire who has to leave Buenos Aires the next day. The prize is too big to be ignored for these small-time crooks and Marcos with Juan in tow takes control of the situation.\r\n\r\nFrom then on the pair face increasing problems in their attempt to complete the scam of the century, one big problem is Marcoss sister who happens to work in the hotel where the deal must be completed. There is certainly no love lost between these siblings, she believes that Marcos has conned her and a younger brother out of their inheritance and threatens to contact the police each time she sees him near the hotel.\r\n\r\nTwists and turns abound during the film, Juan doesnt trust Marcos, in fact nobody trusts Marcos (and for good reason) but they eventually manage to contact the intended victim and get the deal rolling. There are many more twists that carry right through to the end credits plus a few surprises along the way; the finale certainly gives you food for thought.\r\n\r\nCertain aspects of life in Buenos Aires are highlighted, from the pretty high level of street crime to the children who make a living selling religious style cards on trains. This does bring up one wonderful moment, Juan is travelling by train when one of these boys goes around leaving a card with each passenger, if the passengers want the cards they put out a small amount of money for it, if not they just leave the card. Juan takes the card and leaves a $10 note on one knee and a toy car on his other, the boy hesitates but eventually opts for the money, Juan calls the boy back and gives him the car. The boy who had looked drained of life smiles, his face beaming, a simple gift but one that means a great deal to the boy.\r\n\r\nThere is also a serious crisis at a bank in the film and strangely this story was replicated in real life soon after with thousands of customers seeing their life savings dwindle to virtually nothing. Strange how life sometimes imitates art.\r\n\r\nRecommended viewing, definitely worth a rental at least. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15\r\n\r\nR2 dvd released by Optimum Releasing, extras include a behind the scenes doc with some interesting info on how the film was funded.','9e699c43a1fec8739777d1f5598008d4',0,'','yU5i8opR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8964,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175070240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','I watched Intimate Stories as the first of what may turn into a minor Spanish-language film fest. Rather low key as I expected it and enjoyable in a non-eventful sort of way. I loved the landscape of the film, and how the film felt like you could have shot it.','38b13c2391b139c3c2e2cf16b6cfeaef',0,'','1vxtrYGn',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8965,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175070780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Will be viewing Fabin Bielinsky\'s last film, El Aura (2005) in the next couple of days. I\'ll share my thoughts on this soon.','f41f23022a9b1dd9dec5a7a8b3f91a07',0,'','PkGgcDl8',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8966,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175128800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','Hey justin,\r\nare you watching from a DVD?\r\nor is it gonna make it to Singapore screen?','7e6bb8d517dbfb60eecde814249c7e27',0,'','wUhGa96D',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8967,1638,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175157480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Journal: ARGENTINA','DVD unfortunately.','df5c89931fc9d2c16bd0016337f5925f',0,'','9Gehs2nu',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8968,1639,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186141740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','881 (Singapore) (2007)','Courtesy of MX\r\n\r\nReview:\r\n\r\nTheres no better argument for the severity of form witnessed in Royston Tans 4:30 than his Getai (song stage) themed, 881. The films dangerously epileptic flashiness is pockmarked with plenty of familiar Stephen Chow paraphernalia pandemonium, mania, indulgency, lunacy etc as if to suggest a broadening of his repertoire to include more commercially viable (potentially vapid) notches to his belt. And to his credit, Tan channels more than just the Hong Kong comic maestros playfully absurdist takes on conventional wisdoms but also audaciously attempts to mimic filmmaking compatriot Jack Neos distinctive use of local patois to reinforce his assaults on the heartlands fragile sensibilities, and in the process finds himself traversing the same pitfalls Neos seemingly encumbered by even after a decade.\r\n\r\n881 drops a bomb of overwhelming pageantry on the serious business of Getai, a series of concerts performed for spirits during the seventh lunar month in various estates around Singapore. While being ethnically isolating or perhaps just intensely focused on a singular Singaporean theme, the film aggrandises the antics assumed with the sub-culture and amplifies it into camp hyperventilation. Much of the fun comes from the acceptance of musical staples (songs apparently culled from real Getai sources) with no requirement to pin down a number against the hoary extravagance of a Getai stage or inside a character\'s head.\r\n\r\nTans stylistic flourishes through explosions of colour and visual panache, aims for ebullience when its main duo, the Papaya sisters (Yeo Yann Yann and Mindee Ong) relish in their newly refined ability to sing, granted by a flamboyantly decked out Goddess of Getai played by a fearlessly exuberant Liu Ling Ling in a separate role, in addition to the sisters goofy guardian and mother to a stoic stud (Qi Yu Wu) who refuses to choke his chicken from time to time.\r\n\r\nRegardless, the film certainly takes its time in circling the drain at its terminus, taking a few pit stops into accidental hilarity along the way through the sheer overwrought verbosity of familial melodramatics that border on parody and eventually desiccates the brimming life force from the rest of the proceedings that endeavours to move along at the speed of light. Granted, eventually Tan soldiers through the silliness of taking a crack at female bonding to get to its inevitable, grandiose showdown between the Durian skanks and petite yet potent Papaya sisters, but by then all anyone can be thankful for is that Royston Tan understands why a good @#%$ joke never grows old.','394a9474e5358d790423544efca218e8',0,'','tf0hxCJm',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8969,1639,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186213260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: 881 (Singapore) (2007)','I am watching it this National Day.','7e6ccbaef967aa607f058ccbb23a0306',0,'','7CFnQPMz',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8970,1639,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187094900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: 881 (Singapore) (2007)','\r\n\r\nDirector:\r\nCast:\r\n\r\nThe official website\r\nclick\r\nhttp://www.zhaowei.com/881/synopsis.html\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\nTo be honest, I think it is the weakest of his 3 films ...\r\nIn order of decreasing preference ...\r\n(i) 4:30\r\n(ii) 15 (the 25 min version, not the movie version which is kind of draggy)\r\n(iii) 881\r\n\r\nBut let\'s start with what I like ...\r\n\r\n(i) definitely the costumes ... to be fair, it may even have a chance of being nominated at the Golden Horse Award this year (will they be submitting to the organizers? gonna thnk me for reminding hoh ... just kidding ...) ... however, winning dep on which other films are in competition ... maybe Lust Caution?! maybe other period drama?! etc ... but frankly, the costumes at the \"getai\" (i.e., stage show) is worth commending ...\r\n\r\n(ii) the songs ... well, they are well performed ... also, the main theme song is very meaningful ...\r\n\r\n(iii) the film starts off well (in terms of art direction/cinematography) ... and it boasts of POTENTIAL ... BUT BUT BUT as the film proceeds, the potential is not exploited ... it does have a great setting/theme ... very Singaporean; very local; rather unqiue ... but somehow, in its entirety, the film does not deliver ... why?! (see next)\r\n\r\nwhat i thought could be better ...\r\n\r\n-- it tries to adopt the \"formula\" of FIRST LAUGHTER, THEN TEARS ... but somehow, it comes across as rather contrived (and \"familiar\" from other films) ... also, it does not \"build\" sufficiently in terms of plot/characterization to make you feel very sad when misery finally sets in ...\r\n\r\n-- i am fine with puns or even crudeness (that are relevant) ... but somehow, it fails this time ...\r\n\r\n-- i am also fine with \"fantasy\"/\"martial arts\" like segments (i.e., the flying darts, etc) ... i thought it could be very well exploited ... but somehow, this time, it feels more like secondary school kids \"fooling around\" with each other when they play pranks ... again, it is not well executed ...\r\n\r\n-- i know it exists ... but the \"fight\" between the old and the new (or the east vs the west) is getting a bit \"repetitive\" ...\r\ncf. the parallel between these two films ...\r\n(a) In 881, \"papaya sisters\" (chinese/tradition) vs \"durian sisters\" (westerners/modernization)\r\n(b) In 15 the movie (NOT the short), \"hokkien beng/gang\" (chinese group) vs \"angmoh gang\" (english group)\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nIt does boast of potential, but I humbly think it is the weakest of his 3 films ...','eb498259bf2d2bfb17336cfeeed16d49',0,'','7V1Dc296',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8971,1639,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190337360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: 881 (Singapore) (2007)','It is Singapore\'s submission for Oscar 2008.\r\n\r\nThe box office in Singapore has been reasonably encouraging ...','73cdcb7ea49cac086dcc676eb12281d5',0,'','UNDQYi1R',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8972,1640,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186044720,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','China: Stolen Life (2006)','.','5058f1af8388633f609cadb75a75dc9d',0,'','jgknmQxG',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8973,1640,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186044780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: China: Stolen Life (2006)','[Moved from the Chinese Journal / OP 04/03/07]\r\n\r\nSTOLEN LIFE (China / 2005)\r\n\r\n\r\n***possible spoilers***\r\n\r\nBased on a controversial true story, Stolen Life (Sheng si jie) credibly charts the moral and physical struggles of its young female protagonist as she attempts to come in terms with life in contemporary China. Initially seen as a child who is left by her working-class parents in care of her resentfully committed aunt and granny, Yan\'ni (Zhao Xun, of Suzhou River [2000] fame) grows up as a sullen, detached individual waiting for an opportunity to find herself. It soon arrives in the form of university acceptance in Beijing. But the downfall of its naivet begins on the very first day of school, as she runs into a handsome and charming young man who first deceives her into love before impregnating her for profitable reasons.\r\n\r\nStolen Life is a \"sixth generation film\" directed by fifth generation filmmaker Li Shaohong, who graduated from the Beijing Film Academy in the early-80s with the likes of Tian Zhuangzhuang and Zhang Yimou. Shot on DV (most likely in HD), it is quite a departure from her previous effort, the fantastical Baober in Love (2004), which also featured the alluring Zhao. Here, during the second half of the film, Li attempts to institute documentary-style realism with her intricate shots of the citys bustling \"underground,\" where Yan\'ni ultimately ends up and hibernates. While her protagonists first-person voice-over, which presages the pitfalls she endures, takes away from the dramatic tension and at times hints towards preciousness, it also guides by eschewing any sensational or melodramatic elements in this otherwise austere production. After Yan\'ni becomes acclimated with the truth, she abruptly decides to take matters into her own hands, but, as film critic Amy Taubin rightfully stated, \"what\'s marvelous about the film is the way she gradually overcomes her pain and desire for revenge and finds agency through her misfortune. Together Li and her expressive lead actress convince us that this change, rather than being grafted on to fulfill a political agenda, comes from within the young woman herself.\"\r\n\r\n_____________________\r\n\r\n*STOLEN LIFE premiered at NYC\'s Tribeca Film Festival in 2005. It won the Best Narrative Feature award. \r\n\r\n*Now available on U.S. DVD (First Run).','b80c526b961ec5f1380472c0bdcee00f',0,'','BRQYUwrt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8974,1640,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187066520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: China: Stolen Life (2006)','\r\n\r\nStolen Life\r\n\r\nIf I have time, I will rewrite this ...\r\nBut as of now, this is my conclusion \r\n\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nI also highly recommend this film. I thought it has a rather well written script. The beginning grips, as it hints at the unknown past, and the known future -- we are eager to know what has happened and what will happen. Despite the possibility that we may have heard of similar accounts before, the director/script writer/cast has done an excellent job in making us feel for the characters, along with a few unexpected scenes. In essence, I thought the film gets more and more compelling.\r\n\r\n\r\nPS:\r\nActually, this film is 1 out of 10 stories in a made for TV film (also docudrama). The cast is all amazing, and the budget is huge. As some of the stories were so compelling, they were subsequently released on the big screen (at times using another film title). That is why the original Chinese title \"Life and Death Plunder\" is being replaced with \"Stolen Life\"\r\n\r\nThe stories were based on the book by An Dun, who wrote it based on actual accounts of real people. \r\n\r\nOf the 10 stories, I have also watched another (I will try to complete all 10, but time is not on my side). The other film I have watched is entitled \"We\" (Wo Men). Again, I think the original title was \"Brothers\" (Xiong Di).','9232d3c282db4237b52b4e0dde189daa',0,'','PHhsFaM1',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8975,1640,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187246640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: China: Stolen Life (2006)','I\'m glad you liked Stolen Life. Interesting info regarding the series. In hindsight, the film at times did feel like a television production. Do you know who directed the other \"stories\"? Also, did you watch this film on the unsubtitled Chinese DVD or the U.S. one?','b3b5bf681f509d3277105da5bd743843',0,'','8YUAq9iJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8976,1640,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190129820,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: China: Stolen Life (2006)','Did you watch this film on the unsubtitled Chinese DVD or the U.S. one? \r\n\r\nI watched the China version ... \r\nI wanted to purchase the US version, but I thought it is kind of expensive compared to the China version, \r\nis it worth buying?!\r\n\r\nDo you know who directed the other \"stories\"? \r\n\r\nThe three directors are Li Shaohong, Zeng Nianping, and Andy Friend\r\n\r\n1. Xing Fu Zai Xie E Zhong Chuan Xing\r\n2. Zhao Jun De Mi Mi (The Secret of Zhao Jun)\r\n3. Sheng Si Jie (Life and Death Plunder)\r\n4. Wo Men (We)\r\n5. Jue Dui Yin Si\r\n\r\n6. Bie Ti Guo Qu Bie Wen Jiang Lai\r\n7. Ren Zai Bei Jing\r\n8. Chen Yue De Hun Sha\r\n9. Ke Wang Yi Fen Zhen Ai De Gan Jue\r\n10. Feng Qi De Chan Hui (The Confession of Feng Qi)\r\n\r\nPS: The male actor of Feng Qi De Chan Hui (The Confession of Feng Qi) is nominated in the International Emmy Award\r\nclick\r\nwww.variety.com/awardcent...ntlemmys07','96e9abe2f7f827020ef5461e40c370b2',0,'','s2KcB6RW',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8977,1640,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190181120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: China: Stolen Life (2006)','Very thorough, hengcs. That\'s exactly what I was looking for.\r\n\r\nAs for the U.S. version, I haven\'t had the chance to check it out yet, but FRF\'s Global Lens DVDs are usually of good quality and contain a few notes as extras. Currently, it is the only edition with English subtitles. I wish the ultra-cheap Chinese one had subs...','470d476981aba1d298e6a7407b0cc433',0,'','p8S1ylfn',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8978,1641,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1190107860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Joachim Lafosse\'s Private Property (Belgium-Fra-Lux / 2006)','*A 2007 (U.S.) Release*\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis may sound futile considering the vastly disparate lot she has already embodied in her rich filmography, but Pascale is one of the more interesting characters Isabelle Huppert has had to personify in recent years. Essentially a \"child-woman\" who perhaps married far too young and took too long to recognize that she chose the wrong companion, Pascale can\'t help but betray a palpable essence of vulnerability; she appears to be someone who could easily be taken advantage of. \r\n\r\nIn the early goings of writer-director Joachim Lafosses riveting domestic drama, Private Property (Nue proprit), this divorce is often seen on the receiving end of the sarcastic and ill-natured remarks of her irresponsible twin teenage sons, Thierry and Franois, whom she resides with in a large decaying farmhouse on the outskirts of a French-speaking Belgian town. Living rather peacefully with his new family nearby, Pascales ex claims to be the rightful owner of the domicile. But once Pascale relates her plans of possibly selling the house in order to finance a business venture with her Flemish lover, the tensions which had long been brewing underneath the surface come to the fore.\r\n\r\nLafosse, who boasts a theatrical background, largely favors single-camera setups with little to no movement, as if to emphasize the boundaries (or lack thereof) which at once cradle and impair the members of this family. Well played by real-life brothers Jrmie and Yannick Renier (the former being the star of Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardennes La Promesse [1996] and LEnfant [2005]), the overgrown Thierry and Franois, who under certain circumstances appear emotionally susceptible themselves, could be said to represent those who come of age in a broken, fatherless home. Even though Franois is less aggressive and more in tune with his mothers aspirations, hes just as aimless as his brother, and they along with others in Pascales life chart their misfortunes on her as it suits them. Not surprisingly, however, Huppert\'s Pascale doesn\'t ask for our sympathy; her complex gestural vocabulary enables her to toy with the audience, not to mention those around her. Perhaps too silly to be \"Shakespearean,\" her Pascale is ultimately more akin to Mother Nature, who sometimes simply does what she\'s supposed to do, though leaving nothing but disaster in her wake.\r\n\r\nGrade: B+\r\n______________________\r\n\r\n*PRIVATE PROPERTY premiered at the 2006 Venice Film Festival (in-competition). It also played at TIFF \'06.\r\n\r\n*Distributed in the U.S. by New Yorker Films and Red Envelope Entertainment. \r\n\r\n*Joachim Lafosse has directed two other features thus far: Folie prive (2004) and a rend heureux (2006).','2c713941ac4bc11863e22350be2a7d92',0,'','iJHFhg3s',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8979,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1123702860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','Director: Zhang Yi Mou\r\nCast: Ken Takakura, Shinobu Terajima, Kiichi Nakai, Li Jiamin, Qiu Lin, Yang Zhenbo\r\n\r\nOk ... the review won\'t be here till December ...\r\nBut hey, here is the poster ...\r\n\r\nThe Chinese title is \"Qian Li Zou Dan Qi\"\r\nThe English title is \"Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles\"\r\nThe two Chinese lines (below the film title) read ...\r\n\r\n\"Without extending your arms, embracing is still possible ...\r\nUnder the sky/heaven (i.e., in this world), there must be true love ...\"','f268ddd9e50d2a932aad98fcedf1cd66',0,'','4yD8aAvf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8980,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1123705320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'kookook','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','can\'t think of something man...maybe later....','735c18b81a07796c67c67dea61eaf29e',0,'','xzWGKYRa',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8981,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130136240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','\r\nThe press conference at Tokyo International Film Festival.\r\ntiff-jp.net/en_report_76_press_1022.html\r\n\r\nThe Chinese news (not translation)\r\n-- Apparently, the audience has very positive feedback \r\nent.sina.com.cn/m/c/2005-...73111.html','f73daef656ce0c2c890b64bf1a55f4cb',0,'','U6BrbnQk',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8982,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130216100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','\r\nThe Japanese website\r\nwww.tanki-senri.com/\r\n\r\nThe trailer\r\nwww.tanki-senri.com/asx/tanki-y01.asx\r\n\r\nThe teaser\r\nwww.tanki-senri.com/asx/tanki-t01.asx','c5606e6dc7096915afcd867c320a1b5e',0,'','rmJfjckD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8983,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1137647880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','\r\nI have NOT watched it.\r\n\r\nBut according to the website, the DVD has English subtitles.\r\n\r\nglobal.yesasia.com/en/Prd...004104346/','fed5c44fb87ae9446bec3996e3264f83',0,'','L86enfvR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8984,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1148185800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','Director: Zhang Yi Mou\r\nCast: Ken Takakura, Kiichi Nakai, Jiang Wen\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nThe story follows a father into China to fulfill a wish of his dying son ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\n-- wow ... i think it is well scripted and acted ... the performance by the ENTIRE cast is commendable ... the show depicts the relationship among people very well (be it between father and son, between friends, between strangers, etc) ... \r\n\r\nit highlights the old\'s (and even the young\'s) non revelation of feelings (i.e., often we feel more than we show); it notes that people often role play, behind some kind of masks/facades; it depicts \"imprisonment\" and \"reformation\", etc ...\r\n\r\nit relates loneliness (but also love), it deals with uncertainty and the unknown (but also some predictability of humanity), it deals with the harshness of life (but also the tenderness of mankind), finally, it hints at cross cultural similarity and harmony (amidst diversity) ...\r\n\r\nin essence, the film has a lot of nuances, subtleties and parallels (although i think the director has decided to \"explicitly\" say out some of them so that mainstream audience can \"see\" the parallels immediately ... * slight pity *) ... \r\n\r\n-- in terms of cinematography, i especially like those scenes where Ken is at the seaside ... wow ... watch for the \"sunrays\" (kind of obscure but definitely there ...)\r\n\r\nalso, the scenes at Japan are well framed and beautiful ... credits to the crew in Japan\r\n\r\nso, go watch it on a BIG SCREEN!!!\r\nonce again, thnks to The PictureHouse \r\n\r\n-- the film should captivate BOTH artsy and mainstream audience ... because it has BOTH tears and laughters ... (even though it is slightly on the artsy side)\r\n\r\nthe title \"riding alone for thousands of miles\" come from the story of \"Romance of the Three Kingdoms\" and it relates how one would go all the way to help a friend ...\r\n\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nHighly recommended ... \r\n\r\nPS: hurry international distriubutors, pick it up ... \r\n* i am really not related to the film makers in anyway ... \r\nha ha ha *','49c81f1ecc00f66f0877161913a10c2b',0,'','nmAqy10e',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8985,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1148186340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','Finally a new film by Zhang Yimou. I thought he wanted to make another \"martial-arts\" film after the previous two, but maybe this will be next. I\'m looking forward to watching it on the big screen as I have done with Hero and House of flying Daggers. But hopefully without dubbing this time.','929543fc23afba8ed146a36fa11b5dd4',0,'','c48MVAYU',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8986,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1158752040,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles \r\n\r\nCertain international directors are on the fringes of popular entertainment. The few who\'s films have the capacity to reach the general audience who only occasionally glimpses a foreign film of their own free will. A few who\'s name can guarantee some audience and at least an American distributor. Almodovar is probably chief among these, but in the Asian world, few film makers have earned as much respect and esteem as China\'s Zhang Yimou, and quite deservingly so. Yimou won his reputation with a string of exciting, exotic, and powerful dramas that introduced much of the western world to their first taste of Chinese Cinema. Since then his abrasive social commentary has died down and his films have alternated between the grand operatic martial arts epics (Hero/House of Flying Daggers) to the more intimate contemporary dramas (The Road Home/Happy Times). Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles is of the latter variety, which may be an apology to the people who found his last two martial arts films a little superficial. It also helps to explain why this internationally bankable filmmaker\'s new movie is only playing in one theater in all of Chicagoland.\r\n\r\nLuckily for this reviewer, that theater (which was once a painful hour drive) now happens to be the closest one to me, and if the weather was nicer I could have walked if I wanted to. At times Riding Alone reaches depths of untold human emotion, and reminds us that before all the splendid choreography and action, that Yimou\'s films were known for their emotional appeal. I was reminded of To Live, which hits you so hard, you\'re convinced you\'ve never seen suffering on screen portrayed quite so powerfully (and that\'s just in the first 10 minutes). Riding Alone doesn\'t beat its drama into you, it isn\'t overly deliberate (which occasionally To Live was). However there are twists and turns that seem rather predictable, but they\'re handled in a less obvious manner. The film, as the title would suggest is a journey, one without a clear destination, so therefore we don\'t really mind if we get taken on a bit of a detour.\r\n\r\nThe film isn\'t so much about one man\'s journey to connect with his son, as it is a celebration of China. Yimou may have gotten flack for being \"international\" and it seemed for a time (following the banning of To Live) that he may in fact spend the rest of his career in exile. However, Yimou has remained quite active in mainland China, and this film is a testament not only to the nation, but more importantly to the people that inhabit it. Its a rare breath of humanism in a cinematic world that seems overwrought with disassociation, and isolation. Yimou\'s China is one of beauty, community, and good will. This is a far cry from the China of Jia Zhang-Ke\'s films, and its not surprising, because these two men are at different stages of their lives and careers. Yimou had his rebellious stage, and seems to have settled in his ways, whereas Jia is still critical and doubtful, searching for truth. Yimou seems to have found his truth, and its a positive reaffirming truth. At times you may be slightly skeptical of his Capra-esque \"everyone helps everyone out\" type of attitude, but it is a deliberately positive affirmation, and one that celebrates the rural ideology of cooperation. Even in the most remote village, no one seems poor, and no one seems unhappy. When Yang Yang\'s (Yang Zhenbo) mother dies, it is the village that takes to raising the child, and all of them provide for him as well as make decisions regarding his well being. There really is no concept of possessions in this village.\r\n\r\nThe characters are unmotivated by money, and take to helping Gou-Ichi Takata (Ken Takakura) on his quest not out of friendship but out of compassion. As we progress through the story we realize that Takata\'s dying son Kenichi wasn\'t even all that close with these \"friends\" helping along Takata, they are simply doing this for him basically out of the kindness of their heart. The journey isn\'t necessarily important to the story. Takata decides to try and film a masked opera for his dying son that he never got to see. Well naturally it has to be made a little more complicated, so numerous obstacles are thrown in the way. If we take the film as a literal story, then we\'d be bored out of our minds. However it is a film of discovery. Takata is learning about his son (who he had no contact with for nearly 10 years) and discovering a great many similarities to himself. Takata also sees himself, as well as his son in the paralleled relationship between Li Jiamin and his son Yang.\r\n\r\nOne of the things Kenichi loved about China wasn\'t just the opera\'s but the landscape of China. Early in the film we see a great many shots of the mountain ranges of mainland China, and we get a sense that Takata has a great appreciation for them. Therefore it isn\'t surprising to hear that most of Kenichi\'s time spent in China was simply gazing at the mountains. Takata gets a first hand look at them as he and Yang get lost wandering off. Yimou got his start as a cinematographer and this has remained obvious in all of his films as a director. His eye is for the visuals, not so much on continuity or rhythm. He takes his camera high above viewing the winding roads, and extreme long shots of the mountains and the great wilderness that is the heart of China. In a move paralleled in the Constant Gardener, he contrasts the rich orange and yellow colors of China to a sterile, pale, hospital like atmosphere of Japan. I think the contrast is unnecessary and demeaning (as I did to a far greater extent in Gardener). Luckily it isn\'t as blatant, and is only something that appears later in the film. The sun always seems to be shining in China, and even at night the moon is so bright it creates shadows. In Japan the sun always seems to buried behind clouds, whether it be in Tokyo, or even in Takata\'s seaside fishing home.\r\n\r\nThe film is flawed, and comes off as a slight disappointment coming from Yimou\'s 2004 releases. However its a different film, and you get a sense that he needed to make a smaller film like this that not only was a little more intimate, but also allowed him to deal with a contemporary China, just as the flawed but important Story of Qiu Ju did. Takakura gives a splendid understated performance in the film, and is always capable of letting us in on exactly how he\'s feeling without ever really being able to express it as a character. Sometimes his voice over narration helps to oversimplify already obvious moments, but you have to remember Yimou is a popular International filmmaker, so you can\'t blame him if he has a tendency to dumb it down on occasion.\r\n\r\nGrade B','684b588aec9f98eb235d12dd86fff64a',0,'','JxT2DduY',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8987,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1158786900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','I am glad that you gave it a chance at least','77afe19ff8eb8381934137787a19d134',0,'','DHWse0CN',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8988,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1159259340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'howardschumann(d)','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','RIDING ALONE FOR THOUSANDS OF MILES (Qian li zou dan qi) \r\n\r\nDirected by Zhang Yimou (2005)\r\n\r\nFar removed from his politically and socially conscious films of the 90s that reflected the institutionalized oppression in early twentieth-century China, Zhang Yimou\'s latest efforts have ranged from martial-arts films that come to terms with the status quo to bland character studies of village life. Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles, an unconvincing drama about the emotional fallout from the lack of communication between a taciturn father and his seriously ill son, continues in the same lightweight vein. Although it is a well-crafted film, the best thing it has going for it is the wonderful performance of 70-year old veteran Yazuka actor Ken Takakura whose emotionless persona makes Clint Eastwood look like Robin Williams. \r\n\r\nThe story involves the estrangement (never explained) between Gou-ichi Takata and his son Ken-ichi (Kiichi Nakai) who is dying of Liver Cancer in a Tokyo hospital. After traveling from his fishing village to the hospital and being turned away by his son, Takata resolves to make a final gesture of reconciliation. He watches videotape given to him by his daughter Rie (Shinobu Teraima) that was filmed in the Chinese province of Yunnan where Kenichi had been gathering material for a research project on Chinese folk opera. Takata decides to travel to China to fulfill his son\'s thwarted goal - to film the opera singer Li Jiamin (Li Jiamin) singing a selection from the folk opera Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles.\r\n\r\nBattling a language barrier, Takata\'s trip to China is Lost in Translation redux, only with some unlikely characters showing the happy face of Communism. These include a prison warden with a soft heart toward his prisoners, robust, happy villagers in a remote area of rural China, and a bright, uninhibited eight-year old who is constantly tugging at our heartstrings. Takata, assisted by earnest interpreters Jasmine (Jiang Wen) and Lingo (Lin Qui), learns that the singer Li Jiamin is serving a prison term of three years and an appeal for filming in the prison means getting permission from high level ministers in the Chinese bureaucracy. Unlike the experiences of Qui Ji in an earlier Zhang film, however, the experience is not overly daunting for Takata who is singularly resolved to accomplish his goal. \r\n\r\nAfter viewing a filmed message from Takata pleading for permission to film Li performing a song from the opera in prison, the Bureau Chief is moved and grants him permission. Unfortunately, when the filming is set, Li has too many unresolved emotional issues concerning his own son to allow him to continue and Takata resolves to find Yang Yang, Li\'s son, and bring him to his father in order to allow him to complete the filming. Ultimately the journey of Takata for his son turns out to be one of discovery for himself and, as he must rely on the good will and support of the people around him to achieve his purpose, he discovers his own ability to give and receive love. Riding Alone has a good message - that open and honest communication in a family is more important than being right but the message is undercut by a surfeit of schmaltz and plot contrivances and Yimou again fails to reach the magic of the earlier years.\r\n\r\nGRADE B-','bff855033aa3297e5041eba880473654',0,'','phUnZSN4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8989,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1159301880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','I\'m surprised you gave it such a good grade Howard, considering how judging by your review it is far weaker than his earlier films.\r\n\r\nI haven\'t felt the slightest impulse to seek out this film and just hope this is a one off, I felt Chen Kaige\'s \"Together with you\" was horribly schmaltzy and I certainly don\'t wish to repeat that experience.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','50d06e85a09d59c09cf1989fd023e62a',0,'','0zsG4Na2',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8990,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1159303020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'howardschumann(d)','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','B- for me is not a particularly good grade but the film does have outstanding performances which cannot be overlooked.','e79e0460995143a89444151bba028b89',0,'','sGylh6QM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8991,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160025840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','oh no ...\r\ni actually quite like \"Together\"\r\ncould it be a \"cultural\" thing? ha ha ha ...','990c5e032a832933d7226dd3d8e1e0c9',0,'','qFA74Wxe',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8992,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160122440,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','I found Together weak, at least for Kaige, although I\'ve avoided his American debaucle and still have The Promise in my to watch pile. I would probably agree with Howard\'s grade on the film, more or less. At times it just felt too safe for me.','9143a1f60f9f59a9fc511c1dc87b2b92',0,'','M2jLozaC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8993,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160373600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','The Promise?!\r\noh no ... u will even like it less ...\r\n* hiaks hiaks *','87d22771b379e41e05593e88febc8927',0,'','Nk5wF6aK',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8994,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160704980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','I also have to warn you, wpqx.\r\nI had to watch this piece of sh** at the Berlin Film Festival, and it is probably the worst film I\'ve seen. \r\nSimply put it out of your to watch pile, and forget you\'ve ever heard of it. You won\'t be able to keep your good opinion on Kaige after that.','b93f2185769ebf2531813dc309f221ad',0,'','PMfRvVsK',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8995,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160722500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','','d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e',0,'','x8uEKJpb',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8996,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160769300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','That\'s only going to make me more curious. I love a good train wreck sometimes.','58e9dfd63cc735b4abf24b6b3952a9c7',0,'','h5g4tsba',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8997,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1177028220,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (Qian li zou dan qi) (2005)\r\n\r\nDirected by Zhang Yimou\r\n\r\nStarring Ken Takakura (Yasha - 1985), Shinobu Terajima (Vibrator - 2003)\r\n\r\nWelcome to a long advert from the Chinese Tourist Board.\r\n\r\nA few reviews have noted this as a return to Zhang Yimou\'s earlier films, don\'t believe it, sure there\'s a little bit of this and that, bureaucratic problems - The Story of Qiu Ju, a runaway child - Not One Less but that\'s as far as it goes. This certainly takes a different turn from all his other films, it is his first full on tear-jerker, and judging by some of the females in the audience, in that sense it works.\r\n\r\nSince Hero I\'ve had the feeling that Zhang is working hand in glove with the Chinese government to target different groups to show that China is changing, opening up to a wider world.\r\n\r\nHero is one primarily for the Chinese populace, an admission of the past that has previously been pushed away, neglected and demonised. Presented in a highly theatrical manner it shows the brave commoners trying to destroy the soon to be first Emporer of China.\r\n\r\nWhy do they fail? Because the chosen assassin realises that although the slaughter and destruction of all the smaller provinces is a despicable act, it will lead to a unified strong country which will of course lead to the China we recognise today. Hence what happened in the past was wrong but what it lead to was right. \r\n\r\nVery different in tone from Chen Kaige\'s The Emperor and the Assassin where Qin was painted as almost lunatic.\r\n\r\nHouse of Flying Daggers, made primarily for a western audience, took a leaf from the success of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. A take on the tragic romance but with far more of a classic western feel. No clear cut good or bad guys, sumptuous set pieces in a tale of impossible love that could have come straight from a Shakespeare play. \r\n\r\nOne strong feature is missing in HoFD from all previous films directed by Zhang Yimou, one that sends a clear political statement, the colour Red. Oh yes you\'ll see red blood and the odd little uniform detail, but for a colour that has been so predominant in all his other films, its absence is stark. Politically of course it\'s saying to the world that China has moved away from its hard line communist stance. \r\n\r\nHaving not seen Curse of the Golden Flower yet, I can\'t make any comment on it. \r\n\r\nSo we come to Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles. A double meaning to the title, the name of a traditional Chinese mask opera, the type banished under the hard line communist regime and the central character Gou-ichi Tanakas journey to film this opera for his dying son. \r\n\r\nIn typical quest fashion, a number of trials face Tanaka San before he can reach his goal, though each problem is easily solved through the friendly Chinese bureaucrats and village chiefs, a far cry from the turgid time faced by Qiu Ju or Minzhi Wei (Not One Less). Tanaka San is aided in his travails by a tourist guide/ translator called Lingo, terrible at translating Japanese but far more capable with English, a point to note for anyone wishing to travel into the far reaches of this amazing country and culture. \r\n\r\nEvery town and village is very photogenic, either pretty or quaint, very different from the town idepicted in Zhang Ke Jias Xiao Wu, this along with the varied fabulous scenery and the constantly friendly crowds of happy peasents and officials carries a clear message. A tourist board Welcome to China and that, rather than the journey of a father to try and connect with his estranged dying son was the thought that the film left with me.\r\n\r\nZhang Yimou will never recapture the days of Raise the Red Lantern or even Happy Times, so I guess all we can look forward to are more over the top martial arts epics.\r\n\r\nAlthough I cant give the film a big thumbs up, I thought the performances were fine and the film was far better than Chen Kaiges Together With You.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','14d2ddd96d9129f9ae57fa637a47cfc8',0,'','mdQkywH7',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8998,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1189284660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','On the whole, I have to agree with all of you on this one except hengcs. This was a nice try, but nothing more. The story and the acting are quite good, but the directing must be one of Zhang\'s weakest, and the rhythm, editing, cinematography and the way the topic was handled were rather weak. Although it seems that I found it much more emotionally rewarding than most of you (as I got almost moved to tears in certain moments - not the deliberately \"cute\" stagings of the little boy - I\'m rather with hengcs considering this aspect), the artistic quality of the film seemed extremely low to me. Yes, it is more on the \"artsy\" side, and I found the Japanese segments , which were not shot and directed by Zhang Yimou and his crew (!) particularly rewarding, but the oversimplifications and pondering to the audience during other segments was sometimes almost unbearable. A very uneven film, I wouldn\'t recommend it to a fan of Mr. Zhang, but overall i still found it a good movie, with the positive traits outweighing the negative ones. I think the biggest problem while watching the film might be your own expectations, and the fact that the story offers an incredibly huge potentialof possibilities which are rarely explored. If anything, the film at times bites of more than it can chew, yet the result in my opinion isn\'t unsatisfying. If you take the film for what it is, you should have a rewarding experience. \r\n\r\nPS:\r\nThe biggest disppointment for me was the lensing of the Chinese segments. Having seen the excellent photography of some of Zhang\'s other films, this uninspiring work was a huge let-down. Seemed almost like it was made for a small TV screen and not for the cinema','2624b268410ccdfa84c8f44001a2f82a',0,'','U0NFVeYw',1,0,'',0,0,0),(8999,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1189287300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','I found the Japanese segments sloppy. There was poor coverage and the editing was amateurish. The rest of the film didn\'t leave enough of an impression on me to adequately comment on it a year later. Yimou seems better suited to martial arts epics now, and I\'m all in favor of it.','b241d0d038b297b114df47cd76f54bcf',0,'','nQMFeXVk',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9000,1642,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1189340220,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) (China)','Well judging by the wall to wall spectacularly staged choreography in Curse of the Golden Flower, the opening and closing of the Olympics next year should be a huge success as these are also being directed by Zhang Yimou.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','b3f668e564797eed3026e2c8a32967d4',0,'','6c5gRuYH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9001,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164781560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','My Czech Film Festival','Well ladies and gentlemen, I am embarking on my own private marathon of Czech cinema. I\'m not sure to what extent this shall go, whether it be 5 films, 10 films, or 20. The point is I shall attempt to find and watch every film from Czechoslovakia I can get my hands on. Now there are a few reasons to attribute for this.\r\n\r\n1. My own ignorance of Czech films. Sure I\'ve seen a few, but nothing to be anything close to an authority.\r\n\r\n2. Madhuban - Well I\'m inspired a little here, and I certainly can\'t have you running around being the expert on something without at least trying to contest it now can I?\r\n\r\n3. I live in Chicago - With Facets only a few blocks down the street and several well stocked libraries I shall be rather well provided for in my quest. Facets is internationally known as being the foremost proprietors of Czech and Eastern European cinema in general, and with a headquarters here, I\'m in good shape. Leaving the Harold Washington Library I grabbed 5 Czech films (the most I could check out considering I also grabbed Visconti\'s Ludwig), and I didn\'t even scratch the surface. \r\n\r\n4. A girl - There\'s always a girl involved in these stories and well why not? One of the waitresses I work with happens to be from Czechoslovakia. Sure she\'s pretty and all that jazz, but when her face lighted up when I was able to name several films I\'d already seen I got greedy. Likewise I may very well find myself having a partner in this minor film festival, and with any luck some type of contextual interpreter.\r\n\r\n5. Boredom - I\'m done with school for at least the next 6 weeks, I have one job that I only work 2-3 days a week, and I\'ve been drinking far too much. So with some constructive film watching I shall positively direct my abundant energy, and I actually feel like focusing on a topic rather than my usual extremely random movie watching. Don\'t misunderstand I plan on getting a few outside films in the mix, perhaps a trip to the cinema, and I have the above mentioned Ludwig as well as Pasolini\'s Teorema to get watched and returned within the next week.\r\n\r\nNow as far as the rules for this thread. Interjection and comments are more than welcome. If I mention a film you have seen, by all means offer your opinion, or even a full review if you feel like it. If you care to submit your own reviews into the mix, I\'m not opposed either. If any of you have recomendations as to where I should go with this, feel free to voice them. My comments will most likely range from the sparse plot synopsis (so as I can at least remember what the film was loosely about) to a full interpretive analysis as I become inspired. I promise to at least chronicle each and every film that I watch in this, if for nothing else a record. So Madhuban, if you care to keep your title, you might want to start renting some films yourself. \r\n\r\nFestival Program (as of today)\r\nWolf Trap \r\nDaisies\r\nMurder Czech Style\r\nDita Saxova\r\nLarks on a String\r\nDiamonds of the Night\r\nCapricious Summer\r\nAdelheid\r\nTereza\r\nA Prayer for Katarina Horovitzova\r\nMandragora \r\nLemonade Joe\r\nBlack Peter\r\n\r\n...much more to come','f65d8a1149622eaf880bb77a26391e67',0,'','mqlEGc8r',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9002,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164782760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Well, you wish you were living anywhere near the \"greatest city on Earth.\" (BAMcinmatek\'s Czech Modernism: The 1920\'s to 1940\'s.)','8ec4a318d5c3d498ff23f782791831d6',0,'','sYof3vEC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9003,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164784200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','NYC always trying to one up us small towns. I\'ll admit that seems immensely interesting to me, and far more exciting than the upcoming French Festivals going on at Facets and The Gene Siskel Film Center.','965a0c4667d081bdd5f107039df62fa9',0,'','U941R0VE',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9004,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164785280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Wolf Trap (1957) - Jeri Weiss \r\n\r\nA precursor to the New Wave this lacks the humor of those films and political allegory, but it shows that even before he had a proper movement to latch onto Jeri Weiss was an extremely competent director. The film\'s style borrows much from traditional Eastern European films of the era, particularly Hungarian and Russian cinema. The camera moves frequently, and a great deal of the film is photographed in wide angle lenses. However like many films outside of major film producing centers, the widescreen was yet to quite catch on. \r\n\r\nThe film\'s premise is simple enough. A married couple adopts an orphan (although rather far along in her adolesence) and well there becomes a little strife. The wife in this couple is older, fatter, uglier, and more domineering, and the husband well you can\'t blame him for finding his new foster child something to behold. The film is extraordinary in its casting, not just in looks but in acting ability as well. Jana is equal parts beautiful and emotional. You almost want to weep for her throughout. Her devotion is mixed as well. Despite also falling in love with her stepfather she nevertheless feels a daughterly aattachment to her stepmother, who she calls auntie throughout the film. This gives the film an odd differentiation and made me think for the first 20 minutes or so that the couple that adopted her weren\'t married, but siblings. \r\n\r\nWe\'re not supposed to like Auntie, and Weiss does a great job of setting her up early. She recognizes the grace of Jana and has aspirations to make her more \"ladylike\". However her treatment of her housekeepers is abominable and her smothering of her husband is wretched. She gets more intolerable as the film progresses, but we\'re almost never on her side, and this can also be due to the casting. Robert is just smart, talented, dignified, and moderately young enough to be a romantic lead, and something that not only Jana would be attracted to (following some sort of father fixation) but also make someone like her aunt monstrously attached to him.\r\n\r\nWatching this film without the pretext of a film movement or style you wonder exactly how its going to play out. Traditional American cinema would offer some devious murder plot as the only way out, however as I\'ve already explained there is a geniune attachment that Jana feels for her aunt. In a more liberated context a divorce would have worked wonders. However this film is stuck in the middle between melodrama and liberated cinema. Perhaps there is a tie in to the present Communist regime and the message isn\'t revolution, but quiet patience and everything will eventually work out? Most Czech films are comments on the political climate disguised as farces or melodrama, so read in this light Aunt Klara certainly seems totolitarian. Also the beuracracy that keeps Robert away from home so long is an example of government innefficancy that keeps families apart? Food for thought, and something to leave part 1 of this marathon with.\r\n\r\n*Wolf Trap is available on VHS from Facets','816b34dfd1f98f23dbe15d5551c0ccd0',0,'','NL4YvsQe',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9005,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164794040,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Good start. I think mentioning the availability of these films will be beneficial to readers.','35549dba39c592c3e5633b8ba5601876',0,'','zGo3NESc',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9006,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164794220,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Done and done.','bf4c82323c24bac7fe1504ed6e1dfb3d',0,'','GVaXh7oK',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9007,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164797760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Daisies (1966) - Vera Chytilova \r\n\r\nOne of the best known, and most bizarre films of the New Wave, Vera Chytilova\'s Daisies is a fresh and at times baffling cinematic experiment. The plot is easy, two girls decide to \"go bad\" and proceed to try and top each other with hilarious antics of open rebellion. The film is destrucive as can be, and nearly every cinematic trick is employed. This is an expansion of many of the great silent avant-garde films with sound equally being distorted, with mismatched sound effects and over exageratted noises, everything in this film is out of perspective. There are so many collages, photographic effects, and bending of our perspective that its hard to adequately list these devices. A fresh and vibrant film that rightfully holds its place as one of the movements best.\r\n\r\n*Daisies is available on DVD from Facets','5cda052a440342d0edba779aaee32c4f',0,'','H4gUzhJf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9008,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1164810000,1,0,1,1,1,1,'madhuban','Re: My Czech Film Festival','@wpqx\r\n\r\nWow!!! I am more than glad to have potential company (if you are suitably impressed after a while) as the somewhat lone canvasser (no, I am simply no expert) for Czech cinema Great thread! Never mind what the inspiration is - my somewhat annoying insistence or your new Czech friend - but it feels wonderful to know that you are doing full justice to the Facets collection. The flipside is that I wish I had a Facets next door! The renting library here has the most predictable things - one Menzel, one Forman and Klos & Kadar. I have a far better collection actually! Looking forward to your responses to films I have a particular fondness for, and more than willing to be enlightened about those I have no access to. You\'ve already addressed both experiences with your first set of reviews - Daisies and Wolf Trap! Keep up the good work \r\n\r\n@arsaib\r\n\r\nOh hell! I\'ve seen only three films from the Czech Modernism list of screenings - Kreutzer Sonata, Tonka of the Gallows and Virginity! \r\n\r\nM\r\n\r\nP.S. If one is allowed to predict, Daisies and Larks on a String might be the top picks from the first set','03d10918b2f55c17cd8d742e6c69e0ee',0,'','pPtURq6D',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9009,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165036680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Murder Czech Style (1966) - Jeri Weiss \r\n\r\nMy second Weiss film among this fest, and this one is a lot more akin to the New Wave than Wolf Trap. This film plays with fantasies and surrealism to a much greater extent, and the direct parody of beuracracy is in full force. This makes it a bit more scathing than the previous film, but also a little more interesting. The hero here is anything but a heartthrob, but he still manages to score a pretty beautiful girl, but keeping her is another mess. I\'ll admit this film jumped around enough to get me rather confused as to what was happening, but at least it was something different. I\'m running on low sleep and this was my third film of the day.','eff3715e326e8d0106228ac828665c06',0,'','s3WJYbvN',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9010,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165037640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Oh hell! I\'ve seen only three films from the Czech Modernism list of screenings - Kreutzer Sonata, Tonka of the Gallows and Virginity! \r\n\r\nThe Village Voice\'s Jim Hoberman, who is one of the best film critics in the U.S., has written about the series. Here\'s a sampling which mentions the three films.\r\n\r\n\"The series opens sophisticated with Gustav Machat\'s 1926 adaptation of The Kreutzer Sonata. Machat, who spent the early \'20s in Hollywood working with Eric von Stroheim among others, brought a measure of Stroheim\'s \"European\" cynical realism back home; updating Leo Tolstoy\'s once scandalous account of sexual jealousy with deco sets and expressionist lighting, he similarly uses crime and confession to critique the institution of middle-class marriage.\"\r\n\r\n\"That Czech filmmakers were making montage-driven melodramas as late as 1937 is evidenced by the glossier but not dissimilar Virginity. Shot in Prague\'s capacious Barrandov studio by Otakar Vvra, who, still active at age 95, is the great survivor of Czech cinema, this urban romance concerns an impoverished girl, blamed for her stepfather\'s unwelcome advances and thrown into the street by her mother. She finds work as a cashier and even love but ultimately has no choice other than to sell herself to her boss. \r\n\r\nA more startling evocation of female martyrdom, Karel Anton\'s 1930 Tonka of the Gallows is an expressionist ballad in which a kindhearted country girl turned big-city prostitute volunteers to keep a condemned man company on his last night. No good deed goes unpunished: Tonka is expelled from the brothel where she works and, like Hans Christian Andersen\'s match girl, winds up dyingamid visions of happinesson the pavement.\"','1f6c2971896ccc3a2d288f5cf5991140',0,'','SxEWqbvr',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9011,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165116600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Dita Saxova (1967) - Antonin Moskalyk\r\n\r\nCan\'t say much due to time, just writing down having seen it. This is one of the few (if only thusfar) Cinemascope film I\'ve seen from Czechoslovakia. The large canvas helps in some respects, but the film is hardly the ambitious project one would expect of the larger frame.','b80f2d099f58535bd208e705d67b69df',0,'','VfGHCSaQ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9012,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165117680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Try watching Kadar\'s Adrift.','fa74fdb069f09700e618546a083f7d27',0,'','WxgQ6UhT',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9013,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165165560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','The film (Dita Saxova) seemed a lot like a French New Wave picture, at least in terms of the acting. Very removed and unemotional. Not sure entirely why this film was banned, but such was the case with many films of the era.','9ad7adaa18883240c2275692bf4b92b0',0,'','2fJ3hcqm',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9014,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165278180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Larks on a String (1969/1991) Jeri Menzel\r\n\r\nThis long banned film from Jeri Menzel was something of a follow up to his astonishing success Closely Watched Trains. Had this been released in a timely fashion it may have very well been the centerpiece of the Czech New Wave. The film is imbued with all the subversive humor one would expect from the movement, and the film is so self critical its not surprising that it was banned. However so many films that were far tamer were also kept away from the public. The film takes place in a junkyard and one has to laugh when this group of workers goes on strike. A playful bit of spying on the women\'s prison camp made me think of the shower scene in Altman\'s MASH. The wheels of industry look to be coming to a crushing halt. Every line about the greatness of their nation comes with a grain of salt. I loved the old man in the group who consistently spouts revolutionary rhetoric. A clear highlight in this first part of my little marathon/fest.','fdeaaf9ba6f4718169dd55d008fea8ab',0,'','xgUQVHlF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9015,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165317120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'madhuban','Re: My Czech Film Festival','@arsaib\r\n\r\nThanks for the excerpts from Hoberman\'s take. I wouldn\'t rave about any of them, though I\'ve seen them long ago. Maybe a re-watch would help. In fact, while we are on the subject of Vavra, Witches\' Hammer is an incredible film! Since Facets has it, wpqx might like to add it to his Czech cinema marathon \r\n\r\n@wpqx\r\n\r\nAin\'t I glad that you found Larks on a String to be a highlight! Following it up with Capricious Summer might not be such a bad idea','ff63158e0da7f73d90fff036ccdfdd99',0,'','JmhBTKWb',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9016,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165318080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','@madhuban\r\n\r\nI\'ll have you know that Capricious Summer is next on my list to watch.\r\n\r\nDiamonds of the Night (1964) - Jan Nemec\r\n\r\nI\'ll be honest I had to watch this one twice. @#%$ around on my computer forced me to miss nearly everything the first time around. The second time around I realized that even with paying attention this film is still a head scratcher. Nemec bounces from fantasy to reality so often its like you\'re stuck in a perpetual dream. The film is constructed as though you are periodically waking up and falling back asleep instantly. The films hand held camera and long shots make us feel as though we\'re running with these two Jews. The film is all very subjective, and quite possibly the finest Czech film I\'ve seen.','f3d8aae35e66a8e0a86cf3ae44fb5cfe',0,'','wstFlXK0',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9017,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165371720,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Capricious Summer (1967) - Jeri Menzel\r\n\r\nWell this might be the first film in my festival not banned. Nothing really subversive about this film, just simply a tale of misadventure and a summer holiday gone wrong. The film is accurately described as a coming of middle age story, and that puts an interesting spin on it. This could just have easily been a tale of youth experiencing life lessons while in a summer resort. However Menzel playfully makes his cast far from youthful in appearance. Their antics however gradually become more and more immature as the film progresses. Menzel himself plays the magician who comes to town with a remarkably beautiful and luscivious daughter. This temptress of a daughter inspires all the desires of these gentlemen, causing fights and havoc all over. Even the morally superior major succumbs and while attempting to force himself upon the girl he winds up falling asleep on her just as she\'s ready to give in. Not a major work, but certainly a nice lighthearted effort from the man many consider to be Czechoslovakia\'s greatest filmmaker.','b5ff93a6c814fffef39bb2f9166bd9c3',0,'','gxqH9wbC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9018,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165379940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Adelheid (1969) - Frantisek Vlacil\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful Czech films of the era, Frantisek Vlacil\'s Adelheid ranks more alongside the era\'s Russian and Hungarian films than with his fellow countrymen. The story deals with the aftermath of WWII (not entirely new to the movement) but the cold isolation of the film evokes the bitter ties of conflicted loyaly found in the more ambiguous films of other nations. A love story blossoms but a cold and detached one, that ultimately leaves one half completely removed. Vlacil stages most of the action in one house where the title character is now working as a maid. The house was owned by her family during the war, but a family of German\'s naturally lost a little following the armistace. The film is cold but powerful and perhaps its only detraction is the fact that the subject matter has been so painfully covered before.\r\n\r\n* as a side note I am still looking for Vlacil\'s Marketa Lazarova which sounds like one of the best films ever, but likewise far from the norm for his country.\r\n\r\nAdelheid is available on VHS courtesy of Facets.','1687628f7e7ae27ccfbe70eed63f9e05',0,'','yFkvn6lV',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9019,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165406520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'madhuban','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Superhappyfun has Marketa Lazarova, if I am not mistaken. I found the film very overrated \r\n\r\nM','ff64c451596a7b51db306ffb5fc79c9e',0,'','m9NBK2Ub',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9020,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165407480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I\'m not surprised, the longer you wait to see a highly rated film, the more likely the disappointment. Tomorrow I\'ll most likely go find some more to watch.','ee4c41400dc66fd738cc43f0d5829dd4',0,'','2n4rpjvA',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9021,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165407540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I believe Second Run in the U.K. has Lazarov on its 2007 schedule.','b61375bae9504f844e471644c31898d7',0,'','fWtXs9DS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9022,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165659480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','So, what else is playing at the fest?','8d710f6e35e597d2b7595599945711a8',0,'','4hTuFkPG',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9023,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165672680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I won\'t be able to check out any new films for a couple of days, but there are certainly more on the way.','270cbf264e332907ccacc0ff2c58a9cc',0,'','tgmHJMQD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9024,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1165994340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Tereza (1961) - Pavel Blumenfeld\r\n\r\nA complicated murder mystery with a victim that no one seems to care about avenging. The film is that same type of slightly subversive picture quietly scrutinizing the powers in charge, and the female detectives progress parallels the hopeless plight and misleading information one would encounter through official bureaucracy. I\'d say much of the film was lost on me as my attention started to wander into lala land during the picture.','1bed8d09e81b8c0eafcbfc33d7f856cc',0,'','dB1mGTHg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9025,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166076240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Prayer for Katarina Horovitzova (1969) - Antonin Moskalyk\r\n\r\nThe cover of this video makes it look like something out of the 80s, but oh quite a different story on the inside. Eastern Europe (and all of Europe for that matter) favorite topic, that of World War II is the backdrop once again. The film is based on an incident involving several vacationing Jewish Americans who were captured by Nazis in Italy. They bargain to get the Jews to trade their lives for captured Nazi prisoners, but along the way the deal becomes more and more lopsided. The film is compelling in itself, and uses the double edged sword of smooth talking \"friendly\" nazis who are the most corrupt imaginable. The creepiest moment of the film comes when the half crazed former rabbi shows the title character his shop where all the prisoner\'s hair is. A worthwhile and largely unseen film made at the tail end of the movement.','4e3ad46db622cecbaaf447b917a9b678',0,'','tJS9w65h',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9026,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166152740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Mandragora (1997) - Wiktor Grodeckl\r\n\r\nMy first venture into moderately contemporary Czech cinema is something you might expect from Larry Clark, but with more violence. Mandragora is a bit of an epic, and much of it repeats itself but that doesn\'t make the film boring. More than enough goes on to capture an audiences attention, however much of the film does seem to border and occasionally step over the line of exploitation. I\'d say certainly a captivating film with moments of supreme drama, but perhaps too bleak to really make a decent impression.','57f3663751a372f2bd25e72c14ed23d7',0,'','wcm5tr1B',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9027,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166353680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I\'m not sure if Juraj Herz\'s The Cremator is available at Facets or the library, but it\'s a must for every Czech fest.','7a04ba9d361d0f8fc331e0a67721fb6e',0,'','HxY78cRh',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9028,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166415540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','There is a region 2 DVD of it available for order on Facets, but $50 is a little rich for my blood.','b9bc620c706e956a27c644f17034912f',0,'','mMvHSb6V',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9029,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166425140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','That\'s a rip-off! One could simply purchase it from Amazon (U.K.) for about half of that price. But Facets have recently released a few films that were originally put out by Second Run (Kawalerowicz\'s Mother Joan of the Angels, Makk\'s Another Way, etc.), so it\'s possible that The Cremator is on their 2007 schedule.','4b6f630ec7d99bb868bb377f243bcef0',0,'','Lbzdny52',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9030,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166436420,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Considering their reputation for Eastern European films (the founder was an immigrant) I would say its quite likely. They may have it available for rental as they\'ve been offering more and more import dvds, but with my expired membership I\'ll have to check back during more prosperous times.','38deab7fa2f36bd43c1c5a44174465fa',0,'','BVoLsZjc',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9031,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166454000,1,0,1,1,1,1,'madhuban','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I second arsaib\'s recommendation Buy it off amazon if you can, or rely on the damn good quality superhappyfun DVD \r\n\r\nFor some hilarious, Czech sci-fi, check out Vaclav Vorlicek\'s Who Wants To Kill Jessie\r\n\r\nM','9618a70a4f24ccea42cb38b6043c7806',0,'','CHMnd15K',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9032,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166494500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Lemonade Joe (1964) - Oldrich Lipsky\r\n\r\nOh lord now we\'re talking. Without rival the silliest film I\'ve seen on this fest, and recalls the anarchic filmaking of Daisies but made two years earlier. Lipsky plays with any and all conventions of the genre, with hilarious sounding musical songs thrown in the midst. It is hard to keep a straight face for more than a moment or two watching this, and a great deal of cinematic experimentation persists. Nearly all of the film is tinted in various different colors, animation, stop motion, canted angles, reverse action, etc. The opening fight in the bar sets the tone perfectly. Obvious stuffed dummies are used, people are thrown about defying all logic, and the fun never stops. Its hard to make an accurate ploy with the film, but it never really ceases to be amusing, and along with the much different Diamonds of the Night I\'d put it as the best film of the fest.','a2260f8adeb6b893ddba89d4d7271117',0,'','5EK4auM1',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9033,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166787780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Black Peter (1964) - Milos Forman \r\n\r\nThe third of Forman\'s Czech films I\'ve seen, and this one does nothing to raise my already unimpressed thoughts on his early work. This film was dismissable and forgettable, and was revised to slightly better extent in Loves of a Blonde (another film that didn\'t do much for me). The coming of age story is a little stale, and most of the humor is lost on me. This is temporarily the end of the festival, and I was hoping to go out on a higher note, perhaps I should have stopped with Lemonade Joe.','8659a250c243ba058e7018338cc6e6d1',0,'','DWmljx1Q',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9034,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166792280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','THE EAR (Czechoslovakia / 1970/89)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWidely recognized as one of the best and most important Czech filmmakers, Karel Kachya (1924-2004) made over 50 films in his long and fruitful career. But his best work came in collaboration with novelist and screenwriter Jan Prochzka during the ten-year span they were together -- the time-period which coincided with the rise of the Czechoslovak New Wave. Their partnership produced nearly a dozen films. Those which were openly critical of the socio-political situation at large are now considered as \"black\" series films. Hope (1963), Long Live the Republic! (1965) and Coach to Vienna (1966) were a few of the key efforts of the series, though its best might be The Ear (Ucho), a masterful study/critique of the fear and paranoia which comes to fruition under totalitarian regimes.\r\n\r\nAdapted from a story by Prochzka, The Ear begins with a stoic Prague deputy minister, Ludvk (Radoslav Brzobohat), and his crude, boisterous wife, Anna (Jirina Bohdalov), as they arrive back home after a hard night of \"socializing\" with their comrades. Anna appears to have misplaced the keys at the party, but the couple end up getting in through the doors which were meant to be locked. They initially suspect that its their young sons folly. But once they discover that their house is the only one on the street without power, and a trio of trenchcoated men are lurking in the garden, their minds start to wander.\r\n\r\nLudvk attempts to recall the smallest possible details of the conversations he had at the party and what they might all signify. (Kachya has shot those flashbacks from his protagonists point-of-view, thus heightening the claustrophobic nature of the milieu.) Not taking any chances, especially since his boss was recently taken away by the authorities, he begins destroying any papers that might be considered suspicious. Anna, however, still doesnt quite recognize the delicacy of the situation at hand, and takes this opportunity to berate her husband about their dysfunctional marriage. As the personal and the political merge, they form a damning portrait of the societys mores and values. At this point, the \"Ear\" (one or more electronic listening devices that they believe are present in certain rooms) exerts its presence in their thoughts, especially after they recognize the severity of a few of their remarks about the Party.\r\n\r\nThe Ear brings to mind several films that feature similar themes and motifs -- the most prominent among them being LAveu (1970), The Conversation (1974), 1984\r\n(1984), and Triple Agent (2004). Much like the Rohmer film, the conversations shared by the protagonists here have a deceptive quality. However, unlike Rohmers Fiodor, Kachyas Ludvk appears to be in much less control of his situation, even though hes sharp enough to decipher his comrades prevarications. Both chamber pieces feature excellent performances, and they heavily rely on their mise-en-scnes, which are mostly comprised of medium master-shots. (One of Kachyas best assets is his visual sense, undoubtedly the product of the time he spent at FAMU in Prague, which was where the likes of Vera Chytilov, Milos Forman and Jaromil Jires also graduated from). But if Rohmer primarily preferred his narrative to remain anti-dramatic, Kachya continually ratchets up the tension as his couple spend the night in dread considering what might happen to them in the morning. And then a shock arrives which causes them to have trouble believing their own ears.\r\n\r\nIt might be surprising to some that The Ear was the first of Kachya-Prochzka collaborations to be banned. The reason why their earlier efforts had been tolerated was because Prochzka was a respected member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party, and reportedly had strong ties with President Antonn Novotn. But things changed after the 1968 Warsaw Pact invasion. Kachya was fired from the film academy; Prochzka had trouble finding work (he died in 1971 due to cancer). But Kachya found a way to continue making films, though he largely stayed away from confrontational subject matters. After the Velvet Revolution in 1989 overthrew the communist government, Kachya was reappointed at the academy, and, along with numerous other previously banned films, The Ear finally saw the light of day. \r\n\r\n____________________\r\n\r\n*After premiering in 1989, THE EAR went on to play at the 1990 Cannes Film Festival (in-competition!).\r\n\r\n*Available on DVD in the U.K. (Second Run). The film is introduced by author and critic Peter Hames.\r\n___________________','a9a8cca84306717d223f477e65f32ebc',0,'','VBv8A741',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9035,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166808420,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Thank\'s for all these reviews, as stated quite a few of these films are available in the UK and there are more coming. The problem is that in all honesty I\'m completely ignorant of most of them so this thread is proving very informative. Now if only someone would release Daisies on dvd, it\'s one of the few I do know and one I thoroughly enjoyed, anarchic cinema at its best and great fun as well.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','9db57622a3277c2005e966e8955ddb3d',0,'','8dP5LwJg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9036,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166832540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Daisies is available in the US, and I just saw a DVD for Lemonade Joe yesterday as well, which is pretty much more of the same. I had thought of ending the fest here, but perhaps the next trip to the library might prove fruitful, and of course I have about 19 more Jan Svankmajer films to watch.','16eb0cb49581729813c519e7b8718ef4',0,'','Y9iZb0C1',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9037,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166853060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Right now, I wouldn\'t mind czeching out that waitress friend of yours. (Btw, I hope you didn\'t refer to Czech Rep. as Czechoslovakia.)','587c2476fb6f060088654619cc1048d6',0,'','zeRsWpra',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9038,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1166882940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Very clever with the czeching out. She\'s got a few years on me, but its all good. She calls it Czechoslovakia, so the gloves are off.','2b8101171ae3dbf3d011eb4e0f30a0ed',0,'','d9hyWLVR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9039,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167037980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Well according to Facets online catalog there are 43 more Czech films they have available that I haven\'t seen, so it looks like this fest might not be over for awhile.','6efc12cca1ee97956a370e6b60f59367',0,'','cYpCkMEu',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9040,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167039000,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Most of them are only available on vhs at this point. Hopefully that\'ll change in the near future.','9ea7e5109c238da51da592ff24c9e6b1',0,'','ZWq5FA7e',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9041,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167042360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I still have 3 working VCR\'s so I\'m not worried too much.','3be7545835cc9c8e87bccd6f28a65cf1',0,'','A4c86nNg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9042,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167116460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Quote wpqx,\"Mandragora (1997) - Wiktor Grodeckl\r\n\r\nMy first venture into moderately contemporary Czech cinema is something you might expect from Larry Clark ...\"\r\n\r\nHey wpqx, there is also a documentary prior to that ... Body Without Soul (1996) ... I watched it when I was in United States ... Frankly, I am still SHOCKED by the scenes in the mortuary ... dont know how to erase those away ... ;(','4133c2c98c53eea0d1c6a13b027f7780',0,'','yrpDVkxR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9043,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167125760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I am intrigued.','12955526de0dd11c45bbe9bf1d8ba2a8',0,'','VFjmJTzf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9044,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167884400,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I`m ashamed that I haven`t commented yet, with me being a Czech cinema lover and all. But during the last two months I didn`t have much time for our board, and there are still dozens of posts I have to read, yet (Thank god for the markers - though my PC is always stacked with hengcs` \"books\").\r\nSo, I just decided to start reading the thread, BUT\r\nI`ll have to postpone it, as I was invbited to participate at some boardgames right now. \r\nBut I`ll definitely add my two cents worth in the future on everything that has alreaady been said and more.\r\n\r\nBut as not to leave without any info, I strongly advise all of you to check out the Czech films by Alexander Hammid (also known as Alexandr Hackenschmied) and Otokar Vavra from the 30s!!','2ab239b50591d65dc26abaa324eb96c0',0,'','FbBiHv6y',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9045,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167904560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I plan on getting into as many contemporary and vintage Czech films as the majority of my viewing is that narrow margin between 64-67.','cc335c079ed66859f0df03e32855e0d3',0,'','5fBMzeNY',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9046,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167913440,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I was under the impression that you were simply concentrating on the New Wave in this thread.','335f9df576a9cc143b8a947cbd3c6d8c',0,'','roeybLRs',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9047,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167917040,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Not really, just that was what I found readily available. I plan concentrating on it again a little more later, but right now I\'m diversifying.','618713c6e01cb2549d4c39a3f74944db',0,'','WJfXchbH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9048,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167948900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'madhuban','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Maybe you could watch the fairly recent film, Something Like Happiness (2005) by Bohdan Slama, which created quite a stir in the Rotterdam festival. I didn\'t think much of the film, but would be keen to know how you respond.\r\n\r\nM','c23f60da29bd8925e8b9d354d706a17a',0,'','4cpb7iaH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9049,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1167975240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Ok, finished reading the last thread in \"World Cinema\" I hadn` yet gone through. Now I can finally click that MArk Forum Read button. \r\n\r\nI haven`t seen most of the films that have been reviewed so far, but at least I recall two thirds being mentioned some place or another. Here in Germany not much is available really, and if so, it`s on VHS which means dubbed, which means, for the most part, unacceptable. \r\nFrom the Czechoslovakian films I`ve seen, I liked \"Daisies\" (1966) and \"Diamonds of the Night\" the most. \r\n\r\nLet`s see who will be the winner in the end. Former heavyweight Czechian madhuban, or the young but hard training contender wpqx?\r\nThe fight over our boards Czechspert has begun.','c6ea0d4b3cb6a5b6ba72dc734049f5fa',0,'','iPfryckd',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9050,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168004880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'madhuban','Re: My Czech Film Festival','\r\n\r\nwpqx wins hands down simply for giving us so many good reviews from his czech festival. Just look at the number of Czech films I have reviewed with all my advertised enthusiasm! [dying with embarrassment]','25c36a9b373777a9234191dc3829f3e5',0,'','xN8D3cBH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9051,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168045080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','My reviews have been a little shoddy, mostly written for a point of reference later when I have to remember what films I actually watched, and what the gyst of them was. I tried to see if Facets had a copy of Marketa Lazerova but, to no avail. I have to do a presentation on film noir next Thursday, so right now all my cinematic energy is being devoted to that, so at least the Film Noir Journals shall prosper.','79014698ac4bb531640d09e22a3c6bfd',0,'','uFxYGWhD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9052,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168265160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Well arsaib, it looks like your precious NYC isn\'t so special after all.\r\n\r\nwww.facets.org/asticat?fu...hmodernism','7f32b0131062bb629ab2492a467c1114',0,'','6yRTM3Hu',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9053,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168318800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Looks like the Windy City is trying to catch up.','68a56a38e4856480a177f144ad4302b5',0,'','gde1jp3D',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9054,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168325520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I\'m content with getting everything second, as long as I get it eventually.','c8b0a691209f56e71a8c5a6fbbe83344',0,'','WAjFDSCt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9055,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168343940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Are you planning to attend?','1012d806b7f20871704ed31fa89f46b9',0,'','YJhTDeGs',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9056,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168345140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I may have to pull some teeth, but I\'m going to try and catch \'em all. Tell work that I need to do it for school, tell school oh well @#%$ school they have my money, why do they need an excuse?','c6604cd4c4d0d6db1d18963d7b46fe34',0,'','Mu6FeYKB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9057,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168345320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I was only able to get to a couple of \'em, so it\'s not like I took full advantage of the opportunity.','0e19dcf8a3cca232e973d54902e4e9d5',0,'','sEGYq59h',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9058,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168401660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','The Cremator (1968) - Juraj Herz \r\n\r\nIf Repulsion were a black comedy, then The Cremator would be it. Employing wildly distoring lenses, quick cutting, and a blending from Buddhism, Christianity, and Judaism, Herz film is quite loaded. Music plays a roll throughout. Eerie choirs sing during a murderous pursuit, and it is commented in the film, by Karl Kopfrkingl\'s (Rudolf Hrusinsky) love of music. Only a sensitive person can appreciate music, and he mourns for people who haven\'t experienced Liszt or Schubert. One of my favorite laughs was when he wanted to here \"Danse Macarbe\" because it was more lively. \r\n\r\nThe mysterious black haired woman has been interpreted as a few things. She is the silent character juxtaposed to the music, a watcher of sorts. Her role is like the masked performers in Double Suicide, frequently popping up, and possibly reminding us of the drama. The first time I saw her, I viewed her as the younger version of Lakme (Vlasta Chramostova), Karl\'s wife. She is a reminder of who he was vs. who he\'s becoming, and her appearance always seems a grim reminder. Likewise when he wonders where she will be incarnated after her death, this sheds a possible solution. Quite a good film, and I\'m glad to have revived the festival on the strength of this.','09c783f4404d4dbc3b29705fae5f0d93',0,'','VoRLnlUF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9059,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168404660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I\'ll expand later but I was very impressed by the editing, especially in the pre-credits zoo sequence. \r\n\r\n\"The first time I saw her, I viewed her as the younger version of Lakme (Vlasta Chramostova), Karl\'s wife.\"\r\n\r\nSame here.','453818c1c2a016c10664cd19e5a45416',0,'','BcxC9Kjo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9060,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1171763460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','On the Sunny Side (1933) - Vladislav Van&#269;ura \r\n\r\nWell the Czech Modernism series has finally reached Chicago, and this was the opening film. The film is not expertly made It has a clumsiness and incongruity that can alienate some modern viewers. What is endearing is the film\'s charm, much like Vigo\'s Zero for Conduct, which is so similar its striking. What\'s more amazing is both of these films came out in the same year, making it nearly impossible to cite one as influencing the other. The films flaw is in its design. The picture sets up some sort of narrative within its story that at times seems to fail. I thought that the story bounced back to the present tense, but only at the very end does the framing mechanism return. The film itself concerns an orphanage that is essentially run by the orphans. A sharp contrast to many films about horrific treatment at the hands of corrupt and unfeeling caretakers. This inmates-run-the-asylum principle is what makes the film fresh today. What\'s more striking is that the two main children have parents that are still alive. One too poor to support her child, and the other too dysfunctional. With any framing narrative within a narrative you\'re bound to have a certain suspension of disbelief, but once we forget the framing the story functions.','1f62541fdbae173fee572cd24d881b78',0,'','6i3Qc8KF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9061,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1171764120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','The Strike (1947) - Karel Stekl\r\n\r\nStrike was the first and only Czech film to win the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, and watching it today, the film has lost none of its power. It is not overtly heavy-handed like Eisenstein\'s similarly titled film. Karel Stekl doesnt\' make any attempts to intercut the greedy capitalist owners with pigs, or grotesquely shoot them. Seeing how this film was made right at a crucial time in Czech history, its subject matter was relevant. The film is based on a real incident in 1889, but this is used more to create a historical perspective than anything else. Like On the Sunny Side, is almost entirely shot on location. Stekl has a firm grasp of what to do with a moving camera, and some of his tracking shots recall Milestone\'s All Quiet on the Western Front. Now what is confusing in the film is the strike. There seems to be a strike, but it doesn\'t seem to be unified, and we are denied a great deal of information. There never really seems a unified front, and that way when the strike is declared officially over, we\'re not sure if it is any different. There are some great scenes for emotion, and what is most striking is the non-resolution. The film ends with the strike defeated, and no better conditions. The call to arms is much more effective though. We are so used to films of civil unrest ending with a victory for the once opressed, not for the opressor. This is painfully bitter, and makes a historical connection that this intolerable condition will be forever done away with by the Communists. It is a very left wing film, and in today\'s growing anti-right climate the film is well worth watching. Definitely the better of the two from the opening night.\r\n\r\n*As a side note, this series at Facets could not be handled worse. I am unable to attend tonight\'s two films (which will not be repeated), and I most likely will have to miss the films shown on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. This is by far the worst week that they could have this, and I\'m honestly pissed off that there are virtually no encore showings. I only hope that these newly rediscovered films can get an official release.','d9d857f9ddb7a4d9daca2a9494043167',0,'','q91aFA3W',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9062,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1171863600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','The Kreutzer Sonata (1926) - Gustav Machat\r\n\r\nHere\'s a rarity in Czech film, luxury. For the first, and as of now only time I\'ve seen protaganists that are very clearly in the upper class. This appears like it might be a Lubitsch-esque tale of marital infidelity if it didn\'t take itself too seriously. Unfortunately it does take itself too seriously. The tale utilizes the all too familiar prologue and epilogue of the story within a story. This story is about a man driven by an insane jealousy to kill his philandering wife. Despite the wife proclaiming innocence throughout, her husband tells the story as a defeated, bitter, and broken man. When the film begins he is the epitome of the 1920\'s socialite, and his surroundings could just as easily come from Hollywoood. As the film progresses, he settles down, and his once demure wife becomes the raging party animal. A double standard of types applies here, and proves fatal. A little heavy handed and melodramatic, but definitely a curiosity considering the nation it came from.','328a8c3a2a39489d69b39e96fea0e592',0,'','9PEB4pZF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9063,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1171864020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Such is Life (1929) - Karl Junghans\r\n\r\nA bit of an improvement this film is extremely European. Blending elements of German and Soviet cinemas Karl Junghans has created a remarkable film. The cutting in this film is extremely intricate. Junghans doesn\'t insert non-diegetic images, but he is frequently juxtaposing images, like a pepper grinder and a record player in one scene. The cutting is almost indistinguishable at times, with shots lasting literally one frame. Frequently during the film I thought my eyes might be playing tricks on me, and I was seeing superimpositions. Its structure however seems to originate more from Murnau. Each segment of the film is broken into a chapter title, and that is it. There is no dialogue in the film, and there is no burdensome exposition. This may take awhile for the story to really come together, but it can be followed. Now it may be a little hard to watch at times, and tragedy is abundant in the story, but its execution is done so well that a little melodrama isn\'t much of a problem.','32405cac4e64e008888086b509819741',0,'','xleTM5ic',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9064,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1172376840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Faithless Marijka (1934) - Vladislav Vancura\r\n\r\nA slightly fragmented and weak story about the life of a wood cutter. The film is a curiosity today in its depiction of the town\'s Jews, who are shown with characteristic long beards, big noses, and of course money grubbing swindlers. In ths light the film may seem a little tough, but looking at the time it was made, one shouldn\'t be too surprised. The main character here has his house burnt down, and after rebuilding it, eventually loses it to the hands of Jews because of his unpaid debts. In the process a little marital infidelity is thrown in. This film was none too captivating for me, and has gone largely forgotten.','feef270e606ce345f6dba2fbadc3161c',0,'','jHUKlS21',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9065,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1172377500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','The Distant Journey (1949) - Alfred Radok\r\n\r\nNow my thoughts on this film might be a little rough. This was the first time I have ever seen a film about the Holocaust where I wanted the main characters to die. The main characters are an interracial couple, a Jewish woman and an Aryan man. Now why I wanted them dead is slightly morbid, but they are not likeable characters. The woman is selfish and stubborn and her choices cause her whole family to die. She refuses to leave when the whole family could go, and the result was that they got sent away, she was spared temporarily because she was married to an Aryan. It is her husbands love of her that gets himself in a concentration camp. This pair is a little stupid, and caused unnecessarily death to their family. Also I might add that I was actually sick of seeing films about the Holocaust where the main characters live. The survivors of the Holocaust were a small minority, yet surprisingly occupy nearly 99% of all films about it. There were some good touches, and the film is rather well made in its compositions, I just found no ability to identify with these selfish and stubborn leads.','3f1eebbf0d065c66f5d2ce0b0b19ddff',0,'','XPlWoh19',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9066,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1174008240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Alright even though this is out of place, the ? marks replacing accent marks is getting really old. I just watched about a dozen Jan Svankmajer films, and my god the man is a genius. Its easy to see why his films are so short, because I couldn\'t imagine anyone having that sorto f patience. Even a film that uses live action, like Food is done with animation. His films rarely if ever make sense in a traditional sense of the word. Kino has collected the bulk of his shorts on a two-DVD set, and it serves as a fine introduction to his work. Hard to even imagine the type of patience he had to put these films together.','27d4ba30897f46554af6aa89c9c9beee',0,'','E9YFeAVj',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9067,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1174991340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Don\'t forget to watch his new film, Lunacy, which is now available on DVD.','9f059d562c29ab305e047b44d3417b8f',0,'','LWT1uZyR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9068,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175313000,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Conspirators of Pleasure (1996) - Jan Svankmajer\r\n\r\nWhat a strange film. Svankmajer\'s first largely live action film contains not a single line of dialogue, and is unsettling in its grotesqueness. These characters all have a peculiar fetish, and good lord the things that get people off. Svankmajer can\'t resist the chance to use some good old fashioned stop motion, a little clay, and the usual assortment of strange instruments. Bread crumbs snorted, a flying human chicken, a large variety of fur and nails, a very personal newcast, and some carp. Never ceasing to be on the outside, there is no traditional plot to it, but everyone\'s perversions at the end somehow start to bleed into each other, and you get the feeling that we could be in store for another round of perverted mayhem.','de29474fc32afc2abc9d30ed824b255f',0,'','H5X4thDg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9069,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1178929920,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','This insightful piece on The Cremator, one of the very best films I\'ve seen recently, expands on some of the points wpqx introduced earlier in his post. I\'m glad that the author referred to the New Wave as Czechoslovak.','5837f248b7e2dc3b59f6d6743c9d542a',0,'','HzbVtcPX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9070,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182300840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Three peat of Czech films yesterday.\r\n\r\n1. All My Countrymen (1968) - Vojtech Jasn\r\nFrom the New Wave this film has \"instantly banned\" written all over it. The film takes place during the socialization of Czechoslovakia and everyone\'s somewhat reluctance to accept this new system. Along the way nearly every authoritative figure meets with an untimely and ironic death. Certainly one of the most satirical of Czech films, and very openly so.\r\n\r\n2. The Plastic People of the Universe (2001) - Jana Chytlova\r\nThis is a documentary made about one of the most notorious bands in Czech history. Named after a Frank Zappa song and forming after hearing the Velvet Underground\'s first album this group is beyond odd, and their music reflects the tumultuous time between the Soviet clampdown. The group was eventually reunited at the insistence of the Czech president, and that was the reason for this chronological documentary. Certainly an interesting breed of characters, and spotlighting one of the lesser known oddities of music.\r\n\r\n3. Wonderful Years That Sucked (1997) - Petr Nikolaev\r\nWithout a doubt one of the best Czech films I\'ve ever seen. With an ironic title like that the film wastes little time in setting up its comedy, and remains extremely funny throughout, without ever really entering into slapstick. Based on the autobiographical writings of Michal Viewegh, the film is something of a coming of age story for a nation, trying to have some ideals and patiently waiting for things to get better. The film runs roughly from the years immediately proceeding the Soviet invasion and the Velvet Revolution. Along the way we have many fascinating characters and lovely portraits of provincial and city life. Not a dull moment, and the film even features a clip from The Cremator, so you can\'t go wrong with that type of inside reference.','31b3a28eb065d32e15b28af93a640308',0,'','LC8EkdVa',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9071,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182331260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I\'m quite intrigued by Wonderful Years That Sucked (who wouldn\'t be by the title alone). Are you familiar with the director or any of the cast members?','6111be6a6cdf13a48fbe35b7a61a37de',0,'','3MK91gbk',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9072,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182364260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Not at all. Some faces looked familiar but more like they looked like other actors. I wasn\'t able to find any existing DVD or VHS of the film, so unless this Velvet Revolution Czech retro comes your way, you might not be able to see it.','5c2641e540f4972d8ce8c61a8e8e9c01',0,'','006Rr34p',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9073,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184577900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','WRONG SIDE UP (Czech Republic-Ger-Svk / 2005)\r\n\r\nThe protagonist of Petr Zelenkas droll comedy of manners Wrong Side Up (Prbehy obycejnho slenstv) wouldnt look out of place in a Kaurismki film. Beautifully played by Ivan Trojan, Petr is a thirtysomething lovable, unambitious \"loser\" with a dead-end job at the Prague airport. Petrs ex-girlfriend (Zuzana Sulajov) who, despite his shortcomings, might still hold some feelings for him is about to marry someone with better prospects. His nagging pseudo-activist mother has driven his nearly catatonic father, a communist-era newsreel narrator, into the arms of a bohemian sculptor intrigued with his past. Petrs boss, who keeps a list of all the things his wife has thrown at him over the years, is falling in love with a wrongfully arrived mannequin. And if that wasnt enough, Petrs sexually adventurous neighbors would like to hire him to watch them in action. As strange and eccentric as these characters initially appear to be, Zelenka, who reportedly adapted the leisurely paced screenplay from his own successful 2001 theatrical play called Tales of Common Insanity (the Czech title of the film), delicately imbues them with pathos and a sense of longing for someone or something just out of their reach (there seems to an autobiographical edge to the proceedings). Humor doesnt always travel well, especially if cultural specificity is its forte: while Wrong Side Up contains moments and situations that may only find their mark with the local audiences, the composite effect of the absurdist, deadpan tone, which along with Kaurismki also reminds one of Iosseliani and, of course, Keaton (who gets prominently displayed on a wall), is bound to be universal and, ultimately, bittersweet. Regarded as one of the bright young lights of contemporary Czech cinema, Zelenka has said that he would like to be considered as a Czech Woody Allen. Looking at how the globetrotting American filmmaker has damaged his reputation in recent years, he might want to give that another thought.','17f24f4df8b49cbbd1ba26a951b06977',0,'','kfVRQH5q',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9074,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186789860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Little Otik (2000) - Jan Svankmajer\r\n\r\nWhat a strange world we live in. Svankmajer is back and quite ambitious. His live action films have steadily been growing in their scope, and at least the running time of this picture seems to top them all. Like Alice and Faust this story originates from an age old tale, although in this case it is more indigenous to Czech folklore. The beginning of the film has a much stronger surreal edge to it as babies seem to appear everywhere. They are sold on the fish market wrapped in newspaper, they are hidden inside watermelons and every single woman appears to be pregnant. All but one person that is. Bozena (Veronkia Zilkova) cannot conceive and apparently her husband Karel (Jan Harti) isn\'t capable as well. Karel decides to fashion a tree stump that resembles a baby into something of a wooden doll for his wife. She loves the stump so much that it eventually becomes living. The story can\'t end there, but unlike Pinocchio this child doesn\'t turn into flesh it is a flailing tree with infant tendencies (an ironic turn to a weeping willow). The poor beast also happens to have an appetite that can\'t possibly end. \r\n\r\nAny simple fable has a moral and well this one isn\'t much different. Of course these would be parents are receiving the same punishment as Dr. Frankenstein for his usurping of God\'s role. \"Little\" Otik however carries a great deal of compassion whereas Frankenstein\'s monster was sympathetic to the viewers rather than his creator. The mother is fiercely protective and refuses to let any harm come of it, and even the once critical father can\'t go through with his plan to kill it and becomes yet another victim. Otik finds a friend in Frantisek (Pavel Novy) who is the only child not just of her parents but in their entire apartment building. She becomes an adoptive parent to Otik and is on a quest to keep feeding it, going so far as to draw matches for which member of the building to feed it, including her own mother and father. She is the only one who has read the fable and knows how it will end, but rather than recognizing the destruction and trying to prevent it, she tries to prevent Otik\'s eventual death and even feeds its hunger. Quite ludicrous and completely absurd as most Svankmajer films are it is still a joy to view his animation at work.','cb498d11e97b8c261c19c574bf66b087',0,'','rbJv5jiZ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9075,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187053620,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: My Czech Film Festival','My youngest son is totally freaked out by Little Otik, in fact all my family are freaked out by Svankmajer\'s films. I recently watched Alice and my wife thought she might enjoy it as well, by the time it came to the transition from human to animated doll, she\'d lost it, just as well really, I don\'t know what she would have thought of the freaky skeletal creatures.. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','e2c5632569c7ccbf51d1bcec83a49240',0,'','XZiUryVY',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9076,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187335200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Faust (1994) - Jan Svankmajer\r\n\r\nImaginative as always, but this particular film seemed to be a little slow for Svankmajer. The legend is toyed with slightly, but the general premise remains the same. The highlight of the film is probably the summoning of Mephistopheles. The rest of the picture just feels not necessarily too long, just too slow mixed with not enough animation in my opinion. The scenes with clay, particularly the morphing face of Mephisto are all great. Sad to say, but probably the weakest Svankmajer film I\'ve yet seen.','d2ea5dfdfa95c3a9488fe34cb94f5324',0,'','NYGzplMF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9077,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1189128060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','ECSTASY (Czechoslovakia-Aut / 1933)\r\n\r\nThere have been a number of films throughout cinema history that have primarily etched their place in the hearts and minds of the moviegoing audience due to reasons other than artistic: Ecstasy (Ekstase) is one of them. Directed by Gustav Machat (1901-1963) -- one of the pioneers of Czechoslovak cinema who in his formative years served as an assistant under the likes of Griffith and von Stroheim -- the film is most \"notorious\" for the nudity and orgasmic exploits of its leading lady, the Austrian-born beauty Hedy Kiesler (1914-2000), who went on to achieve fame and fortune in Hollywood as Hedy Lamarr. \r\n\r\nAs thin as the variety of evening gowns she dons throughout the film, the storyline has young Eva (Kiesler) recently married to a stoic elderly capitalist (Zvonimir Rogoz) who either can\'t or won\'t cater to her physical and emotional needs. Eva eventually returns home to her fathers estate and gets the divorce proceedings underway. Ecstasy isnt a silent, but Machat essentially relates the events through his potpourri of cinematic techniques (Soviet avant-gardist, in particular) and Giuseppe Becce\'s expressive score. Both come into play during the two (in)famous, though relatively brief, sequences: one features a very naked Eva attempting to chase down her horse after skinny dipping, and while doing so coming upon a handsome and muscular foreman (Aribert Mog) toiling with his crew nearby; and in the other, the said young man becomes the catalyst for Evas orgasmic state (while tastefully shot, this scene is not nearly as sensual and erotic as the dream relay from LAtalante [1934]). \r\n\r\nBesides overtly relying on his at once precious and heavy-handed sexually suggestive symbolism, Machat also bogs down the film with late melodramatics. Due to its content, it\'s not surprising that various edited versions of Ecstasy have played around the world since its release, including the U.S. Even the relatively new remastered edition is the German cut of the film, reportedly one of the three initially prepared (the ending in it especially seem compromised). By most accounts, the original print contains even more of \"Eva,\" not to mention a horse-@#%$ session, and is devoid of the minor socially and politically correct inserts.\r\n\r\n______________________\r\n\r\n*Related: Machat\'s The Kreutzer Sonata (1926) by wpqx','74fea5ef8e196270328c43c9ef598c87',0,'','dE4s6k7Q',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9078,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1203315600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Marketa Lazarova (1967) - Frantisek Vlacil \r\n\r\nIt took awhile but I finally got to the film considered by some to be the best film to ever come from Czechoslovakia. I cannot find the list that apparently lists it at the top, but I think we\'re all familiar with its reputation. This is the third Vlacil film I\'ve seen and certainly the one with the largest reputation. His narratives have frequently been a little disjointed and confusing, but here it takes on a grandeur that is baffling for the majority of time. It takes roughly 170 minutes of the film to figure out what the hell is going on. Tense is something that seems to be of no concern here. The film goes forward and backwards, jumps ship, switches perspective in a way that can rival the most complex novels. It is a picture that transcends plot points and is much more attuned to feeling and mood. Vlacil wanted his characters to live in this world and spent nearly two years with them living in the forest fighting for survival like animals. Part of it recalls Sembene\'s Ceddo as a film between religions. Christianity is evoked but few heed the pious, converting many of their pagan superstitions into new stories. It\'s hard to even begin to explain the film where everyone seems to be evil yet occasionally good to the point were it becomes nearly impossible to root for anyone. The picture is broken into two sections and subdivided repeatedly with expository titles, which do an awful lot to help the plot of the film. The authenticity is alarming and I think this is far greater to its objective than that year\'s War and Peace adaptation.','7b434541a12946182273c3a2ed361c27',0,'','uFiCLnPT',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9079,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1203316260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Damn you, Yuku! One more review to edit. Anyway, does Facets have the DVD from Second Run?','75b3305f07ea5c300554e04c0db9ed49',0,'','9asVNlWo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9080,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1203317280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','No I got it from a specialty store called OddObsession which has provided me with lots of impossible to find stuff in year\'s past but I haven\'t been there for a while. I\'m just wondering where to go now in my Czech film watching, that was by far the most anticipated film of the bunch.','052eefc35620c5856aed5728be07a356',0,'','iaklEdrB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9081,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1203395880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I wonder if they named the store after Ichikawa Kon\'s claustrophobically perverse 1959 film. As for Czechoslovak New Wave, I wouldn\'t mind seeing that list you referenced.','e12a3c2ee991617dd411e3685688e6b1',0,'','fbUNu6is',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9082,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1203409260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','He did and one of the reasons I went back to the place was because of being reminded by Ichikawa\'s death, he had a tribute of his films set up in the front of the store. He also has about every Godard film so I might pick some of those up in the near future.','bee924cf386d1ce61198dd4d9965ded1',0,'','lfFH3K6c',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9083,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1203595740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I certainly wasn\'t expecting the answer to be a yes. Now I have to find a way to visit the place, especially if it holds every Godard film!','860763f743b8fa1f17a1cb15665df765',0,'','pRhNtDU4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9084,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1203627660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','I know he used to mail copies of his films, and there is a website www.oddobsession.com but the last time I checked it was very poorly updated.','0d3233dd70bbd8ba293bc7bc82c9f780',0,'','kJQVo5qn',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9085,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1206350700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','\r\n\r\nJOSEPH KILIAN (CZECHOSLOVAKIA / 1963) \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\"Such is the general currency of the concept \'Kafkaesque\' that it is frequently also applied to political films which introduce a surreal element to the depiction of political dictatorships. The main ingredient of the societies described in such films is an all powerful and incomprehensible authority which weakens the individual psychologically and physically\" (The Cambridge Companion to Kafka). Kafkaesque to its core, the wryly subversive and paradoxical Joseph Kilian (Postava k podpírání, which translates as \"a figure to support\") relates the predicament of an solitary individual in Prague vainly searching for the eponymous man.\r\n\r\nInitially seen emerging from a highly symbolic display of life\'s circularity (predominantly set to the ominous sound of marching soldiers), our protagonist Jan Herold (Karel Vasicek) eventually ends up in front of a cat-rental shop (one quite possibly owned by the state). He impulsively walks in and rents a tomcat for the day. But when he goes back to return the feline, the shop is nowhere to be found. Kafkaesque absurdities ensue as in an attempt to avoid the possibly significant late fees, Jan visits numerous governmental bureaus for assistance, and discovers that a certain Mr. Kilian just might be running one of them.\r\n\r\nCo-directed by Pavel Jurácek (1935-1989) and Jan Schmidt (who also collaborated on the screenplay and went on to work together on the apocalyptic The End of August at the Hotel Ozone [1967]), the film is a highly satirical account of totalitarian bureaucracy. More specifically, it imaginatively allegorizes the period of Stalinist \"cult of personality.\" Along with being thematically bold and inventive, it is formally so as well: the filmmakers only heighten the absurdity of the whole affair by their intermittent employment of rapid montage and optical effects -- the film is shot by the great Jan Curík (The Gleiwitz Case [1961], Valerie and Her Week of Wonders [1970]).\r\n\r\nJurácek may not be a well-known figure of the Czechoslovak New Wave, but his contributions cannot be ignored. A dramaturgy graduate of the Prague Film School (FAMU), he assisted Vera Chytilová on both Ceiling (1962) and Daisies (1966) and wrote screenplays for a number of other key efforts of the movement. Some might be surprised to learn that Joseph Kilian did not face any roadblocks in its homeland (which was not the case with one of Jurácek\'s later efforts; he left for W. Germany in 1978). The film went on to play at the Cannes (Critics\' Week) and New York Film Festivals in 1964. And, by the way, it is only about 38 minutes long.','00646472e264bb45479152984da9f94f',0,'','ZQurylBq',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9086,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1206375600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Where the hell did you get to see this, I\'ve been looking for it for 7 years?','55912ca8f18a0f750f55a7670783dd94',0,'','p3yNQXoh',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9087,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1206411360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','At the cinematheque. I don\'t believe it\'s available anywhere on DVD.','b6e5dc5328c171eb5ce0ef3bcfe305e8',0,'','0fBFenHU',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9088,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1206415380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: My Czech Film Festival','No it most certainly is not, just hope Facets or someone shows it here in the near future, how was the print quality?','7285b452c372f7e778ffda6c775c5145',0,'','GtS4BYzb',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9089,1643,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1206418980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: My Czech Film Festival','Incidentally, I\'m told that Facets did show it a few years back during a retro devoted to Jurácek. Hopefully it\'ll reappear in the near future. The print quality was fine; b&w films seem to pose less of a problem, at least when it comes to viewing.','ce81aff48c015a8d26f04d610824bc11',0,'','sZr2dvfg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9090,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1171295760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','Courtesy of MovieXclusive.com\r\n\r\nReview: \r\n\r\nIn an attempt to bridge the artistic visions of 18 internationally diverse directors, each successful in their own right, Paris, je taime (or Paris, I Love You) becomes a self-sufficient omnibus that does not need to be held together by a consistent narrative. Especially with a stellar cast that includes Fanny Ardant, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Elijah Wood, and Juliette Binoche et al. Bracketed by the timeless and magical appeal of Paris, it effuses itself with a searing sense of perception by its native directorial pool and an effervescent espousal by the outsiders who have embraced Pariss tapestry of cultures. \r\n\r\nThe directors (in order of appearance) are: \r\n\r\n1. Montmartre - written and directed by Bruno Podalyds\r\n\r\n2. Quais de Seine - co-written by Paul Mayeda Berges et ralis par Gurinder Chadha\r\n\r\n3. Le Marais - written and directed by Gus Van Sant\r\n\r\n4. Tuileries - written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen\r\n\r\n5. Loin du 16e - written and directed by Walter Salles and Daniela Thomas\r\n\r\n6. Porte de Choisy - co-written by Gabrielle Keng and Kathy Li and directed by Christopher Doyle\r\n\r\n7. Bastille - written and directed by Isabel Coixet\r\n\r\n8. Place des Victoires - written and directed by Nobuhiro Suwa\r\n\r\n9. Tour Eiffel - written and directed by Sylvain Chomet\r\n\r\n10. Parc Monceau - written and directed by Alfonso Cuarn\r\n\r\n11. Quartier des Enfants Rouges - written and directed by Olivier Assayas\r\n\r\n12. Place des ftes - written and directed by Oliver Schmitz\r\n\r\n13. Pigalle - written and directed by Richard LaGravenese\r\n\r\n14. Quartier de la Madeleine - written and directed by Vincenzo Natali\r\n\r\n15. Pre-Lachaise - written and directed by Wes Craven\r\n\r\n16. Faubourg Saint-Denis - written and directed by Tom Tykwer\r\n\r\n17. Quartier Latin - written by Gena Rowlands, directed by Grard Depardieu and Frdric Auburtin\r\n\r\n18. 14e arrondissement - written and directed by Alexander Payne \r\n\r\nSet around 18 neighbourhoods in Paris, each 5-minute segment begins with an intertitle with both the district and directors names superimposed over a shot of the area. Its a simple and effective introduction for each of the vignettes that segues the last shot of a story as the corresponding storys establishing shot. Theres a discernable effort to cement each vignette into a continuous and functional narrative that ends up tenuous and forgettable. But what sticks is the raison d\'tre of a cinematic effort of this magnitude, which is simply to explore the multitudes of Pariss most famous export Love. \r\n\r\nNever mind the romance. Different facets of love are given its fair share of discovery. Love found, love lost, parental love, love born out of guilt, unresolved love, obsessive love, unrequited love, love at first sight, floundering love etc. are all described hauntingly, poetically and at times downright amusingly, all through each directors idiosyncrasies. Theres no singular establishing tone or mood that is funnelled throughout the entire film. Paris, je taime is much more than a sum of its parts. Each segment is given the directors own treatment, indeed its plain to see that each luminary had been given carte blanche to create the instalment of their choice with the overriding criterion that it has to be set in their respective districts. \r\n\r\nWith varied focuses and styles on display, there are decidedly earnest segments that fall short when propped against its more flamboyant and visually stimulating counterparts, but in the end all are agreeable and piquant in the idealism that fuels each effort. The film stutters along in Bruno Podalyds opening but steadily picks up steam as Gurinder Chadhas sensitive but cursory multi-cultural love story kicks in. The crescendo reaches its peak early on with Walter Sills and Daniela Thomass Loin du 16e that crosses political and social lines to a powerfully rendered expos of childcare and economic trappings of immigrant life. It then soldiers on to Sylvain Chomets (of The Triplets of Belleville fame) Tour Eiffel, a live-action love story between mimes. He imbues his story with the imaginative animated characters and exaggerated Parisian attributes of his surroundings. \r\n\r\nOf course, there are also shorts that seem to be more about the directors style and exercises in facetious techniques rather than emoting a genuine feel of the citys spirit. Notably, Alfonso Cuarons 5-minute long take of a sidewalk conversation ambiguously held between an older man and a young French woman, Tom Tykwers return to his frenetic style seen in Lola Rennt and Vincenzo Natalis surreal vampiric tale replete with ensuing comic book imagery. \r\n\r\nWould the film have benefited more from the participation of several other masters? Undoubtedly. There seems a gaping, untenable hole that screams out for the input of Frances Eric Rohmer or Jean-Luc Godard but considering that plans are already in motion for segments to be filmed in New York and Tokyo, theres plenty of hope left that other directors from around the world will be apart of this anthology.','153befb6d871bc4b2643ce9ec23490a7',0,'','dl8JsqrY',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9091,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1172016120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'bamboomedia1','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','Where did you see this movie? I\'ve been waiting so long to see this that I had forgotten about it. I got excited when I saw your thread title but I don\'t believe it has been released on DVD. Do you know when it might be?','9610474925facc4ee22f6407c433afdb',0,'','vQj8X7em',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9092,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1172135820,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','Pardon me if I am wrong, I presume Justin watched it in Singapore ...\r\n\r\nIt is showing in Singapore now ...\r\nI will be watching this week','6ee99d5209a8e36136fd9a9f0c637fd1',0,'','65v4MjX7',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9093,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1172491920,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','I like the film ...\r\n\r\nIt would be interesting to discuss which are the stories that one like and one doesnt exactly like ... pardon me, i tend to remember each of the story/plot better than the director\'s name or the segment\'s title ... sorry ... so i shall say what are the \"stories\" i like ...\r\n\r\nwanna start? who else have watched?','84cd3adcc656f00a6f7df1d54e1d69a2',0,'','ZQdNahjC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9094,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175331720,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','hi to all \r\n\r\nthe DVD\r\nglobal.yesasia.com/en/Prd...004675001/\r\n\r\nrgds\r\nhengcs','6d0989c45a24eb46d3cb578a5a1af176',0,'','RsEkDxow',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9095,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188336780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','Posted by Chard09 (8/28/07 11:13 am)\r\n\r\n*possible spoilers*\r\n\r\nInitially published in Digital Buryong.\r\n\r\nMorsels of Liquefaction in Paris Je T\'aime (Various, 2006)\r\n\r\nDirected by Olivier Assayas, Federic Auburtin & Gerard Depardieu,\r\nGurinder Chadha, Sylvain Chomet, Ethan & Joel Coen, Isabel Coixet,\r\nWes Craven, Alfonso Cuaron, Christopher Doyle, Richard LaGravanese,Vincenzo Natali, Alexander Payne, Bruno Podalydes,\r\nOliver Schmidt, Nobuhiro Suwa, Daniela Thomas & Walter Salles,\r\nTom Tykwer and Gus Van Sant\r\n\r\nI am tired of seeing Paris in pictures. I can smell Paris in novels and short stories, but I feel that those authors are lying to me. And even a film like Paris Je T\'aime can\'t save me from this hole of desire, a surge as blindful as doses of squid inks, to visit this city where \"overrated\" seems to be non-existent.\r\n\r\nThe idea for this venture is brilliant. But like most good concepts, it is not delivered well. Or probably just falls short in overall direction. I am tempted to say coherence, but no -- it\'s not coherence. There is a smooth transition from one story to another: smooth and short enough to forget them easily. The transition could\'ve been better. I wonder why the producers took out Christoffer Boe\'s and Raphal Nadjari\'s segments just \"because they could not be properly integrated into the movie.\" Judging how the omnibus turned out, it seems like it doesn\'t matter if they included the two. In fact, only a few stand out, either really bad or really good. Everything just came and went.\r\n\r\nTrois mentions spcials:\r\n\r\nCoen Brothers\' Tuileries is fantastic. Steve Buscemi is still the Steve Buscemi I adore-- he still lives in oblivion. Forgetting the cardinal rule of eye contact, we know that even Mona Lisa cannot save him from two young lovers who considers kissing in public as their daily dose of Centrum.\r\n\r\nQuite surprised that a lot of fellow bloggers and friends dislike Sylvain Chomet\'s Tour Eiffel. Perhaps I just can\'t forget how lovely Triplets of Belleville is. I am either laughing or smirking from start to finish, I don\'t know why. I just find mimes really funny and that kid is cute. It succeeds in making me smile, no matter what Chomet\'s intentions are. At least now I understand why people around me are so silent and why all the shrieks are just coming from a single mammal.\r\n\r\nHands down, the best installment is the last. Alexander Payne\'s lonely tourist visits Paris, armed with her Je parle franais un peu and the osmosis of her past, and ends up more lonely than she ever expected. Its bitter ironies and the hilarity of her narration -- a language that French language beginners like myself finds very funny that I got teary-eyed -- save me from the disappointment that I thought I\'ll feel afterwards. Inoubliable: Practicing her French, she asks a store attendant how to go to a certain place. The girl recognizes that she is a tourist. She answers back in English. Harsh. Anyone knows where to buy modesty in Paris? Pardon the generalization. In Quatorzime Arrondisement, we realize how it\'s like to be in Paris after all.\r\n\r\nP. S. Whatever happened to Chris Doyle?','5ce00021fe6530e96c7b6ffc62578eaa',0,'','sRwPxiZJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9096,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188336960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','Hope you dont mind me moving your post to the thread Chard09, great to have more reviews etc from you. \r\n\r\nIt\'s always best to give the index a quick scan in case there is an existing thread. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev','c604de548dadb0c9d5bd857de6529dba',0,'','qMUDYETl',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9097,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188365580,1,0,1,1,1,1,'chard09','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','Haha I actualliy did a search, but perhaps this thread did not come out because the title is misspelled. \r\n\r\nSorry. Won\'t do it again. Promise.','9a5bd506b0d97c6e11c2a6e573fbb6b3',0,'','YVGFjykS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9098,1644,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188367380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Paris, je t\'aime (2006) (France)','Not your fault, chard. Our search function is currently out-of-order. But we\'ve indexed our reviews for easy access. Please click here to visit the Index Forum.','06350d61cf864804c72a0102164c97c9',0,'','eoswQTM7',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9099,1645,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187853540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Blood Brothers (Tian Tang Kou) (Hong Kong) (2007)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Alexi Tan\r\nCast: Liu Ye, Daniel Wu, Zhang Zhen, Tony Yang, Sun Hong Lei, Shu Qi\r\n\r\nThis film is the closing film for Venice Film Festival 2007. Yes, *this* year!\r\n\r\nI can\'t believe this ... \r\nFor the first time, we manage to catch the film before Venice\'s Opening ... \r\nhee hee ...\r\n\r\nThe official website (with English)\r\nclick\r\nhttp://www.bloodbrothersthemovie.com/\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nThe story revolves around the fate of three friends (two are brothers and 1 mutual friend) as they depart from their rural hometown in Zhujiajiao to seek a better prospect in Shanghai ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\n-- Well, I find myself in a dilemma ... becos I would hope that people support the Chinese cinema. What\'s more, it has been selected as the closing film for Venice Film Festival this year, not without reasons ... the film boast of a promising cast (Liu Ye, Daniel Wu, Zhang Zhen, Tony Yang, Sun Hong Lei, Shu Qi), a story of potential (modeled after John Woo\'s Bullet in the Head), dealing with interesting albeit common themes of brotherhood/friendship, trust and betrayal, interwoven with love and romance ... \r\n\r\n-- Frankly, the film has rather nice to look at frames, but somehow when pieced together, the entire story fails to captivate sufficiently inspite of its many turns of events, all cramped tightly into a 96 min film so that you will NOT find it a bore ... it is NOT slow nor boring, it just lacks something ... maybe characterization ... maybe contrast that will swing our emotions ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nIt has potentials, but something is amiss.\r\nWatch and decide for yourself','7ab4929b9683a215483406ae8313ea3c',0,'','oL9azq5w',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9100,1646,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188231960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Les Petites Vacances - Stolen Holidays (France/2006)','Les Petites Vacances - Stolen Holidays (2006)\r\n\r\nDirected by Olivier Peyon\r\n\r\nStarring Bernadette Lafont \r\n\r\nWoman on the verge of a nervous breakdown?\r\n\r\nThe nature of anyones state of mind is ambiguous and fragile at the best of times but little dents and chinks can push that fragility to the point of no return.\r\n\r\nDanile (Bernadette Lafont), a retired teacher regularly ferries her grandchildren between her divorced daughters and their father\'s for the holidays. Minor comments made by the grand daughter on the journey plus the fact that their father isnt there to pick them up from the train station prompt Danile into taking the children for a small holiday.\r\n\r\nThe problems start though when she refuses to inform either parent of their whereabouts, she also misinforms the children, keeping them in the belief that their parents know exactly what they\'re up to. The younger child, Thomas is quite happy to go along with the holiday but his older sister, Marine has countless confrontations with Danile. A petulant girl of around 13/14 years of age, she sees herself as responsible and mature, Marine cant understand her grandmothers actions and certainly doesnt like being told what to do. \r\n\r\nThere is a turnaround in Marine\'s attitude after she eavesdrop\'s on her grandmother, this causes her have a change of heart and to become a co-conspirator even though she has no idea, like the audience or Danile herself, where this will lead.\r\n\r\nThe strength of this story rests on its vagueness and squarely on the performance of Bernadette Lafont. She proves sublimely capable playing a woman who is balancing on the precipice. The film leaves the viewer in a constant state of unease because you cannot tell what will happen next or where the plot is heading. At times, Danile\'s behaviour seems completely rational, she certainly cares about her wards, more so than either of the parents appear to, but there are times, hinted at right at the start of the film where her mind appears to take a slightly sinister turn.\r\n\r\nI enjoyed Les Petites Vacances a lot, despite a couple of glaring plotholes. Bernadette Lafonts realisation of a woman on the edge was excellent. The fact that you cannot second guess the plot plus the vagueness of Daniles actions and indeed, the oblique nature of the end of the film all help to make this one worth looking out for.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated PG','27892fda38546bc8a6608fc28d8da58a',0,'','MF1vXE6t',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9101,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175005320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I will update this every month simply to have a direct listing and to garner any opinions for my future viewing.\r\n\r\nApril at the Chapter.\r\n\r\nI have listed the majority of the films screening during April, there are others including a back to back screening of the Lord of the Rings trilogy but Ive omitted this and others that I definitely will not be seeing.\r\n\r\nId be glad of any opinions as to which films from the list are not to be missed, I have listed previously seen films in bold but since Im still questioning whether to see them again, Ive left them in the list for now.\r\n\r\n* Play. (2005) Dir: Alicia Scherson. - My brief comment *\r\n\r\nLittle Children. (2006) Dir: Todd Field.\r\n\r\nThe Chances of the World Changing. (2006) Dir: Eric Daniel Metzgar.\r\n\r\nThe One-Armed Swordsman (Dubei Dao) (1967) Dir: Chang Cheh -Cinema China 07\r\n\r\n* Two Stage Sisters (Wutai Jimei) (1965) Dir: Xie Lin - Cinema China 07 - My thoughts. *\r\n\r\nFur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus (2006) Dir: Steven Shainberg.\r\n\r\nNotes on a Scandal (2006) Dir: Richard Eyre. \r\n\r\nFlags of Our Fathers (2006) Dir: Clint Eastwood. \r\n\r\nThem (Ils) (2006) Dir: David Moreau,\r\n\r\nA Guide to Recognizing Your Saints (2006) Dir: Dito Montiel.\r\n\r\n* Letters from Iwo Jima (2006) Dir: Clint Eastwood.My thoughts. *\r\n\r\n* Climates (Iklimer) (2006) Dir: Nuri Bilge Ceylan. My thoughts. *\r\n\r\nHero (Ying Xiong) (2002) Dir: Zhang Yimou - Cinema China 07\r\n\r\n* Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) Dir: Zhang Yimou - Cinema China 07 My comments *\r\n\r\nVive lAmour (1994) Dir: Tsai Ming Liang -Cinema China 07 - My comments.\r\n\r\n* Orchestra Seats (2006) (Fauteuils dorchestre) Dir: Danile Thompson. My thoughts *\r\n\r\n* The Family Friend (Lamico di famiglia) (2006) Dir: Paolo Sorrentino. - The thread.*\r\n\r\nAfter the Wedding (Efter Brylluppet) (2006) Dir: Susanne Bier. \r\n\r\nThe Science of Sleep (2006) Dir: Michel Gondry.\r\n\r\n* A City of Sadness (Beiqing Chenshi) (1989) Dir: Hou Hsiao-hsien -Cinema China 07 My opinon. *\r\n\r\nLos Olvidados (The Young and the Damned) (1950) Dir: Luis Buuel. \r\n\r\nInland Empire (2006) Dir: David Lynch.\r\n\r\nRunning with Scissors (2006) Dir: Ryan Murphy. \r\n\r\nId welcome any comments at all.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\n* = The films I saw during this month','281063f91ac0224d36a1cdcfb716e5a4',0,'','NQPU5EBL',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9102,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175022060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Well you\'re fired if you don\'t see Inland Empire or City of Sadness (which I\'d still like to see with subtitles).','7b322ff41ad0e351178c51e8bdb9f7d6',0,'','mRydMqSw',1,0,'',0,0,0);
INSERT INTO `phpbb_posts` VALUES (9103,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175022480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Plenty of screenings which the general populace liked and the critics loved. Even vice versa.\r\n\r\nI\'ll just do 6 I think you might like.\r\n\r\nFur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus (2006) Dir: Steven Shainberg.\r\n\r\nNotes on a Scandal (2006) Dir: Richard Eyre. \r\n\r\nA Guide to Recognizing Your Saints (2006) Dir: Dito Montiel.\r\n\r\nOrchestra Seats (2006) (Fauteuils dorchestre) Dir: Danile Thompson.\r\n\r\nAfter the Wedding (Efter Brylluppet) (2006) Dir: Susanne Bier. \r\n\r\nInland Empire (2006) Dir: David Lynch.','81c83d97e5ebb823490c1f72230610f0',0,'','EhD8W2qJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9104,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175085600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','A City of Sadness is a definite, along with the majority of the Cinema China 07.\r\n\r\nI know I\'ll do my best to see as many matinee screenings as possible including:\r\n\r\nPlay. (2005)\r\nLetters from Iwo Jima (2006)\r\nOrchestra Seats (2006)\r\nThe Family Friend (2006)\r\n\r\nI may not bother with Flags of Our Fathers (2006) simply because it\'s released on dvd around the time that it\'s showing.\r\n\r\nHasn\'t anyone seen Climates or Little Children? \r\n\r\nInland Empire will hopefully get a general release, long films can be hard work within the cramped confines of the Chapter.\r\n\r\nThank\'s for the comments on the other films wpqx and Justin, by the way, have you seen After the Wedding?\r\n\r\nCheers Trev','f72a0af354b986071bc30c3eb1050f03',0,'','9oYU4JHt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9105,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175087100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I saw Little Children. Did not like it at all. That\'s 2 hours of affluent, suburban dullards with sexual dysfunctions. Such a manufactured movie. It just seems a rehash of every dysfuntional suburban WASP film since American Beauty with nothing original or heartfelt in it.\r\n\r\nPerformances were flawless as expected but that usually is expected in a cast like this. Felt like a sombre Desperate Housewives episode that took itself too seriously. Definitely one made for awards, nothing you can thrust your hands into and grab some ounce of genuine feeling from it. Characters were limited and quirky in that very filmic way disguised as novel people with intensely different strains of lives, including a voiceover that reveals too much too often. Basically it wants to leave you wondering who the little children actually are while showing us that the kids in movies are born precocious. I really disliked it, for its insistently long runtime (almost like if they let us out early, we might catch an actual award worthy film superior to this), its artifice and its insistence of making its inherently smart characters stupid in the face of life\'s mundane decisisons in order to make some big yuck about hypocrisy. These suburban household prestige films are really starting to grate.\r\n\r\nBut for the record, I liked Field\'s debut, In the Bedroom. What a step backwards into functionalised mediocrity.\r\n\r\nAbout After the Wedding, not yet. Waiting for the film fest in Singapore to catch that one.','be90f9c071c89e753ebcaa0bd517360e',0,'','UavGteFE',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9106,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175107380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks for the info justin.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','749c51fe7b5aac409ee853a49f549196',0,'','SbDrFlfe',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9107,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175138340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Nuri Bilge Ceylan\'s CLIMATES.','93674cbdb6668d3a4b6a05266c65e9b0',0,'','0P6jwYNc',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9108,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175167980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks arsaib4, I was sure you had written a review but it\'s absence from the index made me think I\'d imagined it. \r\n\r\nLooks like I\'ll be making around 10 visits there next month provided there are no problems. It\'s nice for me to plan out my screenings like this, during Feb I only had the time for 2 visits. Early booking equates to cheaper ticket prices, it also means that I will make every possible effort to get there, last year I missed a lot of films (to my regret) using my bad feet as an excuse, it\'s not going to happen this year. \r\n\r\nTalking of the Chapter, my last March screening there today - Abderrahmane Sissako\'s Bamako (2006), looking forward to this one.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','50aca26d75813ff64851bd78010aeab8',0,'','Kp7x38Ys',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9109,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175238720,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Yeah, the index needs some repair work. Hopefully, we\'ll be able to divide the duties in order to get it done as soon as possible.\r\n\r\nThe programmers at the Chapter have certainly brought in some wonderful films. It\'s tempting, but I won\'t mention the ones I haven\'t yet seen. I believe I briefly brought up Play to you earlier. Whether it was here or in an e-mail, I\'m not sure. Anyway, you\'ll get the chance to experience it in another format very soon (though it\'s possible that the film\'s visual-aural dynamics won\'t be as affecting) . In fact, same goes for Climates, but since I\'m sure that you\'re well aware of the vagaries of distribution, you\'ll act accordingly.\r\n\r\nI agree with wpqx; I wouldn\'t want to miss the Lynch and the Hou on the big screen. Same applies to the Cinema China series. You also can\'t go wrong with the Eastwood films, but again, you\'ll have another opportunity to get to them.\r\n\r\nOrchestra Seats is one of the many titles of this French rom-com. Perhaps it\'s appropriate considering how familiar it seems. You\'ve seen and reviewed a few of them, so you know what to expect. I\'ll be watching Little Children and Notes on a Scandel tomorrow.','82fb8bf03034403496848245b9156acd',0,'','EKGUwHyq',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9110,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175239080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I forgot to mention that I loved Sissako\'s previous feature, Waiting for Happiness (coming soon on DVD from New Yorker), and I\'m looking forward to his much talked-about Bamako.','f172e50eb1782ab240447f0b341fbe9e',0,'','e0o8DmxA',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9111,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175239740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','As far as the Eastwood films go, I\'d recommend Flags of Our Fathers on the big screen. I watched it on DVD and felt next to nothing. However when I saw Letters From Iwo Jima I was completely immersed, and the Oscar winning sound was something I could not adequately experience on my television.','5beb3cac2ef1030ec48e8a05a03a4713',0,'','pq1uBzMf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9112,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1175274960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I\'ve had \"Waiting for Happiness\" on dvd (Artificial Eye) for quite a while now after initially catching it on TV, needless to say it pushed the right buttons for me. \r\n\r\nBamako is a very different creature, a formal trial set in a communal courtyard where witnesses from several African countries raise tough accusations against Europe, the U.S. the World Bank and the IMF. Sub stories intertwine and there is an air of the surreal to the whole film.\r\n\r\nMore later.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','bec2fc8163dbd6b8a8fa11ee4dc0a42f',0,'','7NL069wD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9113,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1176033960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Having seen Play & Two Stage Sisters I\'ve picked up my next tickets for Letters from Iwo Jima, Climates and Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles. I will probably catch Inland Empire in early May, terrific trailer btw.\r\n\r\nI\'ve yet to decide whether to see Vive lAmour and Los Olvidados again and probably won\'t reach a decision until the last minute.\r\n\r\nI haven\'t made any definite plans for this next week due to the prolonged Easter holiday but may well catch a film if I can make the time.\r\n\r\nIn the meantime I\'ve promised to see Danny Boyle\'s Sunshine and Zhang Yimou\'s Curse of the Golden Flower with my sons and for my wifes birthday in early May, Spider-Man 3.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','10fc2bd9ef66c9073e0a188ee453b8d6',0,'','pT2oFsP4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9114,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1176071640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Reading through all the replies, there isn\'t much i can add. But since you asked for everyone\'s opinion, here is mine!  \r\n\r\nAs wpqx pointed out, I\'d definitely go and see Hou\'s film and the new Lynch. The trailer really is terrific, and I wouldn\'t miss anything by Hou on the big screen (my one time experience was worth the admission and my 10 Euro taxi fare to get there in time at least five times!!).\r\n\r\nFrom the rest I\'ll comment on the one\'s I\'ve seen and you haven\'t (Personally I would rewatch Hero, Science of Sleep amnytime on the big screen, to mention only two).\r\n\r\nIf you have anything going with Hong Kong Cinema and at least a bit of appreciation of Shaw Brothers actionfilms (I\'m sure you have), you need to watch \"The One-Armed Swordsman\". It\'s a classic and one of the best. You\'ll probably leave the cinema with a big grin on your face. \r\nI would also recommend you watch\r\nClimates (Iklimer) (2006) Dir: Nuri Bilge Ceylan. I\'m not as enthusiastic about it as arsaib (though I haven\'t read his review yet) but it\'s a good film, and i wouldn\'t miss Ceylan on the big screen. He isn\'t a professional photographer for no reason!\r\n\r\nOk, I\'ll say something more. I haven\'t seen it, but you should probably check out The Family Friend (Lamico di famiglia) (2006) Dir: Paolo Sorrentino. His previous \"The Consequences of Love\" impressed me a lot and Sorrentino is surely one of the most talented Italian directors working at the moment. \r\n\r\nPS:\r\nI\'d like to read more of your thoughts on Bamako. I watched it twice at the cinema and enjoyed it a lot. And the music is terrific.','d4830d2eadfbc3d4749d8c4b191f5943',0,'','nsXaldFm',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9115,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1176117480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks for your comments A, I will write more on Bamako but I\'m still reading through all the paraphernalia that was handed out after the film, hopefully you\'ll add your thoughts as well.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','df97dd7eaeaddbead04ec4734a19157c',0,'','xdAiSzWZ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9116,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1176896700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I have finished my April selection, after seeing:\r\n\r\nPlay. (2005) \r\nTwo Stage Sisters (Wutai Jimei) (1965) \r\nLetters from Iwo Jima (2006)\r\n\r\nI have my tickets for:\r\n\r\nClimates (Iklimer) (2006) Dir: Nuri Bilge Ceylan. Seeing this tonight, the beautiful trailer and arsaib4\'s review have really raised my hopes for something outstanding.\r\nRiding Alone for Thousands of Miles (2005) Dir: Zhang Yimou - Cinema China 07. Tonight as well, will have a tough time following Climates.\r\nA City of Sadness (Beiqing Chenshi) (1989) Dir: Hou Hsiao-hsien -Cinema China 07\r\n\r\nand will also definitely see\r\n\r\nOrchestra Seats (2006) (Fauteuils dorchestre) Dir: Danile Thompson.\r\nThe Family Friend (Lamico di famiglia) (2006) Dir: Paolo Sorrentino.\r\nAfter the Wedding (Efter Brylluppet) (2006) Dir: Susanne Bier. \r\n\r\nHaving now seen the May listings, it will be better for me to put off Los Olvidados and Inland Empire until then when I can catch both at matinee screenings.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','5e8baa7e904271ebe947e6b9efd47fdd',0,'','XM4fasjo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9117,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1176915960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','May at the Chapter.\r\n\r\nThe May listing is not quite as instantly appealing as the last few months but hopefully there are a few good to very good films to see. \r\n\r\nPlease advise on any must see films, all comments are welcome. Previously seen films are listed in in bold. \r\n\r\nRunning with Scissors (2006) Dir: Ryan Murphy\r\n\r\n* Inland Empire (2006) Dir: David Lynch. *\r\n\r\n* Los Olvidados (The Young and the Damned) (1950) Dir: Luis Buuel. *\r\n\r\n* Days of Glory (Indignes) (2006) Dir Rachid Bouchareb *\r\n\r\nThe Caiman (Il Caimano) (2006) Dir Nanni Moretti\r\n\r\nHaxan: Witchcraft Through the Ages (1922) Dir Benjamin \r\nChristensen with live accompaniment, unfortunately this one off screening falls on my wifes birthday so Ill be seeing Spiderman 3 instead. \r\n\r\nLove Story (2006) Dir Chris Hall\r\n\r\nThe Red Shoes (1948) Dir Powell & Pressburger \r\n\r\nThe Queen (2006) Dir Stephen Frears\r\n\r\nEl Aura (2005) Dir Fabin Bielinsky\r\n\r\nJoe Strummer: The Future Is Unwritten (2007) Dir Julian Temple\r\n\r\nHonor de la Cavalleria (2006) Dir Albert Serra\r\n\r\nFresh Air (Friss leveg) (2006) Dir gnes Kocsis\r\n\r\nUnder the Skin (1997) Dir Carine Adler\r\n\r\nOpus Dei / I Love Pinochet documentary double bill from director Marcela Said\r\n\r\nTricky Life (En la puta vida) (2001) Dir Beatriz Flores Silva\r\n\r\nThe Right to Live in Peace (El Derecho de Vivir en Paz) (1999) Dir Carmen Luz Parot\r\n\r\nEstado Nacional (2001) Dir Carmen Luz Parot\r\n\r\nKardia (2006) Dir Su Rynard\r\n\r\nBelle de Jour (1967) Dir Luis Buuel\r\n\r\nCasablanca (1942) Dir Michael Curtiz\r\n\r\nMutual Appreciation (2005) Dir Andrew Bujalski\r\n\r\nThe Lives of Others (Das Leben der Anderen) (2006) Dir Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck\r\n\r\nLa Belle et la Bete (1946) Dir Jean Cocteau\r\n\r\nFor Your Consideration (2006) Dir Christopher Guest\r\n\r\nAway From Her (2006) Dir Sarah Polley\r\n\r\nThe Gigolos (2006) Dir Richard Bracewell\r\n\r\nThis is England (2006) Dir Shane Meadows\r\n\r\nJindabyne (2006) Dir Ray Lawrence\r\n\r\nThe Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (Le Charme Discret de la Bourgeoisie) (1972) Dir Luis Buuel\r\n\r\nLos Dos Lados de la Cama (2005) Dir Emilio Martnez Lzaro\r\n\r\nId be grateful for any comments, particularly regarding the Spanish/Latin American films.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev','c1bf91d231d32a89ac40bce548686014',0,'','dRxqnjPt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9118,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1176952920,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I would say \r\n\r\n- (i like it) Days of Glory (Indignes) (2006) Dir Rachid Bouchareb\r\n\r\n- (maybe) El Aura (2005) Dir Fabin Bielinsky\r\n\r\nrgds','5f07c064eaef4f3bba3e7db22face84f',0,'','CeJdPwck',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9119,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1177023480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I\'m sure arsaib4 mentioned El Aura before, I\'m also pretty sure that justin has seen it as well.\r\n\r\nDays of Glory has a matinee screening so it\'ll almost definitely make the list.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','bd8e00764e7def01635ad71cf6d19c7a',0,'','Gj2dMcxB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9120,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1177080600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','The Spanish and Latin American films are part of the Viva! Film Festival which is touring through May and June. The full Manchester based festival is screening around 30 feature length films plus shorts and more, by the look of it only 6 will be screened in Cardiff:\r\n\r\nMay\r\nEl Aura (2005) - Fabin Bielinsky\r\nHonor de Cavalleria (2006) - Albert Serra\r\nLos Dos Lados de la Cama (2005) - Emilio Martnez Lzaro\r\n\r\nJune\r\nEl Habitante Incierto (2004) - Guillem Morales\r\nUn Franco, 14 Pesetas (2006) - Carlos Iglesias\r\nCrimen Ferpecto (2004) - lex de la Iglesia\r\n\r\nCheers Trev','b4089e4b516a11f1fb746ed2671b7489',0,'','lpkeA0hW',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9121,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1177318140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I\'ve seen a few of these films. I\'ll respond as soon as I have some free time.','19384a673aadd341ba422ef2f11b3bc3',0,'','U1g3MAYS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9122,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1177404600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Honor de Cavalleria is a minimalist, contemplative gem in the recent tradition of Blissfully Yours (a few classics also come to mind but I\'d rather not mention them at this point). In order to watch it, one doesn\'t need to be familiar with Miguel de Cervantes\' monumental \"Don Quixote,\" the novel this film primarily borrows its outline from, because \"nothing happens.\" Quixote and Sancho simply travel across the vast Catalan landscape, long enough to allow for various existential /spiritual/ mythological readings. (Expect walkouts!)\r\n\r\nEn la puta vida is/was a popular Uruguayan effort which made the festival rounds a few years ago. It\'s intermittently engaging but doesn\'t do a good job of avoiding the clichs that go along with films that deal with prostitution. Good performance by the lead, though.\r\n\r\nCrimen ferpecto has an interesting premise (fate alligns a hotshot salesman with an unattractive co-worker) but the film doesn\'t exploit it to the fullest. I don\'t feel strongly about El Aura one way or the other. Same was the case with Nine Queens, the debut feature of late Argentinean filmmaker, Fabin Bielinsky.','1689abb31bd5662d81960399f35e9aa4',0,'','dNkPBYCh',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9123,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1177413840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Honor de Cavalleria sounds like a definite then, unlike the mainstream multiplex cinemas you rarely get walk-outs at the Chapter. With the majority of the audience at the matinee performances being 65+ you are far more likely to suffer the odd bout of snoring. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','2412509d466fdc50e102f3ebfcecf993',0,'','LMfvomrX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9124,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1178485680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Quite impressed by Polley\'s debut feature, Away from Her. Nuanced, complex, thoughtful, much like many of her performances. Great work by the cast she\'s assembled, especially Julie Christie and Olympia Dukakis.','b1619894e3a039a37ea829a7fbf9b407',0,'','Vov5XYr8',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9125,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1178489640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','That\'s good to hear, I had it marked as a maybe but I\'ll try and make it a definite now. I\'m surprised nobody has seen The Caiman yet.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','a34756e55e373d08b89b5dd11a69de55',0,'','vUugB6mG',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9126,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1178524140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Hasn\'t there been a Singapore Italian Film Festival?','a7d7c7cf18fdd90c13b5e4a2468b6e15',0,'','hTE8WnSw',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9127,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1178555100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Yes, you should definitely watch Polley\'s Away from Her, possibly with your wife (and family). I think it will be a unique experience.','9aa4eca3fb3bd37e3da0d4156fecf71b',0,'','Vd6yFSAq',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9128,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1178574600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','It\'s hard enough getting any of my sons to trudge the 3.5 miles to the Chapter (especially when they know they\'ve got the same walk back ), I don\'t think my wife would ever go there. The last time we walked anywhere near that distance she moaned about her legs acheing for days. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev','487e9fd3343749f8c5d38d2aa2ce8a01',0,'','StoDBETU',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9129,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1179097140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thank\'s to me catching a cold, three tickets went to waste:\r\n\r\nThe Caiman (Il Caimano) (2006) Dir Nanni Moretti\r\nHonor de la Cavalleria (2006) Dir Albert Serra\r\nFresh Air (Friss leveg) (2006) Dir gnes Kocsis\r\n\r\nNot too bothered about The Caiman as I\'m sure it\'ll get a dvd release soon but pretty pissed about the other two.\r\n\r\nNothing for a week or so now so I\'ll catch up on delayed reviews.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','da25322564c58d4633580cd1d496291b',0,'','qYXdiG1g',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9130,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1179300180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Sorry to hear that. It would\'ve been nice to discuss Cavalleria. Hopefully, it\'ll catch the eye of a distributor down the line.','24fa4ff9ddb02fc99aec9e9393e271a3',0,'','kq5VBHgt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9131,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1179801960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Now I\'m not sure if Trevor got the opportunity to watch Away from Her. I was hoping that he\'d do a full review of the film. It appears that A has also been pretty busy lately.','74a7233685d8c93bd3796aeaccc4e9b0',0,'','AQKB7wy4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9132,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1179807300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','And I will be out of town after this week ...','f2a11964e2d77565e82cce662e9c9091',0,'','ZCm491nk',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9133,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1180258980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','For now, this wonderful review of Away from Her should do. It\'s from A.O. Scott, the literary-minded critic of The New York Times who\'s actually familiar with Alice Munro\'s \"The Bear Came Over the Mountain,\" the short story Sarah Polley has based her film on.','134a945d9b9eae0380f0ee53d068a2df',0,'','dP9pRn6a',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9134,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182042900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','First, it\'s good to be back.\r\n\r\nSecond, unfortunately I still haven\'t seen Away from Her, and missed quite a few others, but I will catch it on dvd.\r\n\r\nThirdly,\r\n\r\nHumidity is rising - Barometer\'s getting low\r\nAccording to all sources, the street\'s the place to go\r\nCause tonight for the first time\r\nJust about half-past ten\r\nFor the first time in history\r\nIt\'s gonna start raining men.\r\n\r\nIt\'s Raining Men! Hallelujah! - It\'s Raining Men! Amen!\r\nI\'m gonna go out to run and let myself get\r\nAbsolutely soaking wet!\r\nIt\'s Raining Men! Hallelujah!\r\nIt\'s Raining Men! Every Specimen!\r\nTall, blonde, dark and lean\r\nRough and tough and strong and mean\r\n\r\nYes it\'s that time of year, the Chapter has been screening the touring films from the 21st Lesbian & Gay film festival, I must admit I\'ve felt out of place at the couple I\'ve seen so far but hey! I can live with it. At least all the gay couples know I\'m too ugly to be on their team.\r\n\r\nI\'ve listed the films for the Chapter for June, July and August below and would love to hear your opinions, some have already been reviewed and are definites but quite a few haven\'t as yet.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','8807119ac54305c97712fd67eab3bf86',0,'','cyVsAWb7',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9135,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182043200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','June at the Chapter\r\n\r\nInstead of listing most of the films, Ive only detailed the ones Ive seen and those Im thinking about, any opinions on the latter would be appreciated. There are notes on Black Gold on site and this is a definite.\r\n\r\n* = Touring films from the 21st Lesbian & Gay film festival. \r\n\r\nHave seen:\r\n\r\nNight of the Sunflowers (La Noche de los Girasoles) (2006) Dir Jorge Snchez-Cabezudo\r\nLights in the Dusk (Laitakaupungin valot) (2006) Dir Aki Kaurismki - My comment\r\n4.30 (2005) Dir Royston Tan * - 4.30 thread \r\nSonja (2006) Dir Kirsi Liimatainen *\r\nMy Best Friend (Mon Meilleur Ami) (2006) Dir Patrice Leconte \r\nCrimen Ferpecto (2004) Dir lex de la Iglesia\r\n\r\nWould like opinions on:\r\n\r\nBlack Gold (2006) Dir Marc Francis Tickets booked\r\n\r\nRed Doors (2005) Dir Georgia Lee * Tickets booked - My brief comments.\r\n\r\nDans Paris (2006) Dir Christophe Honor - Cancelled till late August.\r\nFast Food Nation (2006) Dir Richard Linklater\r\n\r\nThe Last Laugh (Der Letzte Mann) (1924) Dir F.W. Murnau\r\n\r\nEternal Summer (Sheng xia guang nian) (2006) Dir Leste Chen * Tickets booked. - Cacelled due to storm damage.\r\n\r\nFrom those I have seen, 4.30 has been the standout film of the month.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','cad15903eea26575d6ad27244c086ef5',0,'','vuAqTXGH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9136,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182043440,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','July at the Chapter sees the touring films from the London Australian Film Festival plus all three of Deepa Mehtas elemental trilogy two of which I\'ve seen on well worn videos so I may catch them, overall it should be an interesting month.\r\n\r\nAny opinions as to what should be seen and what to avoid?\r\n\r\nThe Caterpillar Wish (2006) - Sandra Sciberras - My thoughts.\r\n\r\nClose to Home (Karov La Bayit) (2005) - Vardit Bilu, Dalia Hager - Review to be done.\r\n\r\nThe Balanda and the Bark Canoes (2006) - Rolf de Heer, Tania Nehme - My thoughts.\r\n\r\nWater (2005) Deepa Mehta - My thoughts.\r\n\r\nFire ( 1996) Deepa Mehta - Comments to do.\r\n\r\nTaking Liberties (2007) - Chris Atkins - My thoughts.\r\n\r\nNot Here to Be Loved (Je ne suis pas l pour tre aim) (2005) - Stphane Briz My thoughts\r\n\r\nEarth (1998) Deepa Mehta \r\n\r\nLa Vie en Rose (2007) - Olivier Dahan\r\n\r\nFive Moments of Infidelity (2006) - Kate Gorman\r\n\r\nTell no one (Ne le dis personne) (2006) - Guillaume Canet - Already seen, my comments.\r\n\r\nStranded (2005) - Stuart McDonald\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','d27c4258145ee31fdf8dd4a72016dc82',0,'','zetQLgnM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9137,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182043680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','August at the Chapter.\r\n\r\nAfter omitting any films Ive already seen or have no interest in, these are the remaining choices, there are a few of Werner Herzogs docs screening but Ive seen most of them in the last few months, I left The Wild Blue Yonder in though as I did note in my original comment that it may be far more impressive on the big screen.\r\n\r\nOnce again, any and all opinions are appreciated.\r\n\r\nMoliere (2007) - Laurent Tirard\r\n\r\nKlimt (2006) - Raoul Ruiz\r\n\r\nWelcome 2 My Deaf World (2005) - Helen Gaynor\r\n\r\nLonging (Sehnsucht) (2006) - Valeska Grisebach\r\n\r\nThe War on Democracy (2007) - Christopher Martin, John Pilger\r\n\r\nTen Canoes (2006) - Rolf de Heer, Peter Djigirr\r\n\r\nPrivate Fears in Public Places (Coeurs) (2006) - Alain Resnais\r\n\r\nParis Je TAime (2006) Assorted directors \r\n\r\nThe Wild Blue Yonder (2005) - Werner Herzog\r\n\r\nWheel of Time (2003) - Werner Herzog\r\n\r\nLes Petites Vacances (2006) - Olivier Peyon\r\n\r\nThe Golden Door (Nuovomondo) (2006) - Emanuele Crialese\r\n\r\nFlanders (Flandres) (2006) - Bruno Dumont\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','c2a9cdd2e5913761e470a884a812e908',0,'','lnXvtxjV',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9138,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182060780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Some interesting sounding films, but I haven\'t seen almost any of them. \r\nI\'d recommend you watch Valeska Grisebach\'s \"Longing\". I didn\'t particularly like it, but it seems it\'s just me. The film is a unique form of naturalist melodrama, mixing styles which are usually deemed incompatible. It\'s definitely a film that shows the way how cinema might look in ten years, possibly one of the most innovative of this decade. I\'m pretty sure you\'ll like it very much. \r\n\r\nYou also might enjoy Resnais\' Coeurs. I saw it a couple of days ago and it was the first of his films I disliked, and didn\'t enjoy over the whole running-time. I thought it wasn\'t artificial enough and fairly conventional. But most people are quite enthusiastic about it. \r\n\r\nEmanule Crialese\'s new film might be interesting. I have seen her previous Respiro (2002) which had some very impressive moments. Probably an interesting Italian director to look out for.\r\n\r\nAnd Murnau\'s Der letzte Mann (1924) is one you shouldn\'t miss on the big screen, if it is a restored copy.','c8ed0342bf3acd31cc9b16c1671dbfab',0,'','lMP8bTLD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9139,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182106560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thank\'s for the advice A, have you written any comments for the ones you\'ve seen? Guess I should take a good look through the index as well as asking here.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','9e378b1d11c26eb88f8da00201fed03f',0,'','8TLPaq3b',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9140,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182106800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Crimen ferpecto has an interesting premise (fate alligns a hotshot salesman with an unattractive co-worker) but the film doesn\'t exploit it to the fullest. \r\n\r\nIt\'s unfortunate that this was the only film from the Latin season that I caught, at its best as a gory black comedy but tries too hard at social commentary and lasts too long, very entertaining but unsure in direction.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','52e6795f36b3b593cffabb4803b5ef13',0,'','01Ql2bRJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9141,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182114600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Nope, haven\'t written any comments on them. \r\nYou know, I\'m a lazy bone','1d3b728d3c5b071c614a8e6b60624c4a',0,'','NBVKdHPJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9142,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182237480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','\"Second, unfortunately I still haven\'t seen Away from Her, and missed quite a few others, but I will catch it on dvd.\"\r\n\r\nI hope you do. Perhaps A could review the film in the meantime; if not, then I\'ll write one when the film appears on DVD.','e258d22a2f9ca10df7792bbb0d72db9e',0,'','3JGRcjNC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9143,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182281100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I hate to admit it, but Away from Her is actually one of the dozen unfinished reviews i have started in March after the Berlinale. And it\'s one of the most demanding. Maybe I\'ll be able to finish it or bring it to a closure in a simpler form. But the Sokurov has already been much work to finalize.\r\nI won\'t promise anything (Oh, I have already made too many promises on unfinished reviews), but it\'s possible \r\n\r\nYou should definitely rent or buy the DVD when it\'s out Trev - that\'s for sure!','14fad227415c0b0b7e00a3dc7a09b570',0,'','zYWrmRTj',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9144,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182329760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Fast Food Nation would\'ve been more effective as a documentary, but Richard Linklater has done the best he could with investigative journalist Eric Schlosser\'s dense novel of the same name. The film makes the case for how random and disconnected things really are even though they don\'t appear to be so. But, thankfully, Linklater doesn\'t employ propaganda techniques to convey his point; he\'s too literate to do so. Issues are balanced out nicely at key moments (Bruce Willis\'s character isn\'t likeable but there\'s a lot of truth in what he has to say). I\'ll comment on more films later.','bc2e5c29c55795c218930357666ce5ad',0,'','j75kUmi8',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9145,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182364140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thank\'s arsaib4, looking forward to any further info.\r\n\r\nLa Vie en Rose is screening in the mainstream multipex\'s so I may catch it there, the problem though is that I\'ve always found Edith Piaf\'s singing really annoying. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','852e1a1277643107c5d2db6eb83e07fb',0,'','BkjTZfVS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9146,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182372540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I did watch half of La Vie en Rose','09e3cdd67f31692d199ff9ed99af552a',0,'','RWKhjVyF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9147,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182376620,1,0,1,1,1,1,'jcdavies','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','For August, i\'d be interested in Golden Doors, The War on Democracay and Ten Canoes. The Pilger film i\'m likely to support politically- as he takes shots at US anti-democratic interference in S.America. Some critics have said Pilger could be more critical of Hugo Chavez, but so far i think his- Chavez- faults have been slightly exaggerated. Of course power corrupts. Mark Kermode (UK TV and radio critic) doesn\'t seem to like Pilger, even while agreing quite a bit with his views.\r\n\r\nTen Canoes sounds like my cup of tea, not rushing headlong with plot development, described as too slow for some tastes-but with proper respect for Aboriginal culture. And the Crialese film had excellent reviews, one from last year i\'ve long wanted to see.\r\n\r\nI was in Cardiff last week, and was even thinking of one day getting an apartment by the bay, if things still don\'t work out for us abroad- was thinking of you and Chapter, Trev!','80e80dec916e380e75c4a095e93e213c',0,'','4gQG6Mqf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9148,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182376920,1,0,1,1,1,1,'jcdavies','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Taking Liberties is another political documentary i fancy, critical of Blair\'s \"Big Brother\" Britain- a real problem as far as i\'m concerned. each intrusive measure trumpeted by Blair and Reed as if a sign of their triumphant approach when of course it can only ever be a sign of failure and desperation. The Iraq war was supposed to make us safer not ever more at risk. We are already the most spied on nation in Europe if not the world- millions of cameras here.','a15ecccc1430eb9b8a430903bf33ea18',0,'','VfPkz62H',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9149,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182392100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Since I\'ve always been a big fan of Piaf, it would\'ve taken something special for me to be satisfied. La Vie en rose was certainly not that. I thought the best aspect of the film by far was Marion Cotillard\'s performance.','04f08cb2af7b29a674a148ea53b56944',0,'','Z8hEUkB9',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9150,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182401760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Quote jcdavies, \"For August, i\'d be interested in Golden Doors, The War on Democracay and Ten Canoes. \"\r\n\r\nhmmm ... i just wanna say The Golden Door would surprise pple ... it is not a \"typical\" film ... with interesting \"fantasy-like\" imagery ... i am not sure if many pple really like/appreciate the \"plot\", but i think many would leave the theatre remembering some of the images from the film ...\r\n\r\nas for 10 canoes, there are some reviews on this board ... i have yet to give mine *guilty* ... but i would say it is another film which comes across as \"different\" ...','2ca2bc95dc89106f0a407cd0db556c4c',0,'','ul3YEeDH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9151,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182437880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks everyone, it\'s great to get feedback especially when many of the films have a single screening. 10 Canoes has to be a definite though it\'s a little awkward that the documentary concerning the film, The Balanda and the Bark Canoes is screening the month before.\r\n\r\nRe: arsaib4 - La Vie en rose, would you recommend it to someone who wasn\'t a fan of Edith Piaf, for the acting, editing, photography etc? The main reason I\'ve been put off her singing was because my father-in-law used to launch into awful renditions of her songs whenever he was drunk.\r\n\r\nNice to have you back John, Cardiff house and apartment prices have risen tremendously over the last couple of years, good luck if you do intend moving back. \r\n\r\nHopefully Madhuban will reappear soon to rejoin our happy band.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','9431cc6f98b3963f931d116e5acc9ea7',0,'','9JD8FqsW',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9152,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182439320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I\'d recommend La Vie en rose for the exact reasons you cite for doubting it, \"wasn\'t a fan of Edith Piaf, for the acting, editing, photography etc? \"\r\n\r\nWhat better way to make a convert out of you?','379c455195da02cc5feefe3db8310b4e',0,'','hU3ARp0C',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9153,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182486180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','\"Re: arsaib4 - La Vie en rose, would you recommend it to someone who wasn\'t a fan of Edith Piaf, for the acting, editing, photography etc?\"\r\n\r\nIf you\'ve watched and enjoyed such recent musical biopics as Ray, Walk the Line, Beyond the Sea, etc., then it\'s something you may like. As I implied earlier, Cotillard performance goes a long way to make it palatable (I won\'t be surprised if wpqx is forced to watch this for his research one day). The technical aspects or the achronological structure aren\'t worth writing home about.','885c803fe205265715f5ba9a34191eb3',0,'','kTXqd8PW',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9154,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182785940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Dans Paris has been cancelled till the end of August, unfortunately replaced by a film I\'d already seen a few months ago, The Page Turner.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','5e4b59bd074b1d24cdb916c443dbfcef',0,'','0hkatHZM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9155,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182843120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Time permitting, I\'ll add to your review of The Page Turner. But as I mentioned somewhere in the Last Film Seen thread, you\'ve pretty much nailed the film.','1a2bc01e92b43de2763efe31b9341d34',0,'','gdciMfky',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9156,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1183481880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I\'ve got my first tickets for July and have decided to try and catch all the Aussie season, I\'ll do a thread for them which\'ll tie up with Ten Canoes.\r\n\r\nThe only one on the July list I\'m still dubious about and which I may not bother with is \'La Vie en Rose\'.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev','2e8539a94b62ec00d4a1418720fa14dc',0,'','9Xe8G6j4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9157,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184252940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','After seeing the trailer for La Vie en Rose, I\'ve decided to give it a miss.\r\n\r\nThese bio-pics are fine if you\'re a fan or have any interest in the person but nothing has really attracted me to this one.\r\n\r\nMoliere may well suffer the same fate next month though I\'m sure I\'ll see Klimt.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','7c940dbc9b5569d43a7f06d56cdb8128',0,'','34pF7oRh',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9158,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184296740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Klimt isn\'t one of Ruiz\'s best films (he\'s made about a 100 and only a few of them are groundbreaking), but it\'s definitely worth a look.','4dd67b9cd30e21c98c9cb1bdd0322b83',0,'','GHjv8VPo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9159,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184603460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','The only film I know I\'ve seen from Ruiz is Time Regained, but I love the originality of Klimt\'s art so hopefully the film will appeal.\r\n\r\nI\'ve read comments comparing Moliere to Shakespeare in Love which doesn\'t exactly inspire me to see it.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','8992e7a799860c1196d164097a11b565',0,'','8eih9p2E',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9160,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184665980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','It certainly helps if one is actually familiar with the Austrian Symbolist painter. Have you seen anything in particular from him? \r\n\r\nLamentably, films about the great French playwright/actor have managed to escape me so far. The new Molire has an intriguing enough cast -- Morante, Luchini, Duris, Sagnier, etc. -- to pique my interest.','80358156b5f6716384863cf23fd89508',0,'','AxpXVUei',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9161,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184787840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Re: Klimt.\r\n\r\nI\'m not fond of his standard portrait work but his more stylised work is like a mix of Pre-Raphaelite and medieval art, I prefer his rougher work to the at times too clinical finish of some of his more famous paintings. Like Renoir and Degas, his nudes are outstanding and have a very individualistic style and eroticism to them, he was extremely influential but an often underrated artist.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','500a45e6a8183bc6b1ee43374298f862',0,'','X49n1Rcy',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9162,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184927520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Good. It appears that you\'ve seen more than me. I was fortunate enough to come across Hope, II (1907-08) a couple of years ago at an exhibition and simply fell in love with its rich palette. Only then I started to read about him and have since also watched a documentary, appropriately titled Klimt.\r\n\r\nIt looks like Flanders is coming up shortly. I guess you\'re already familiar with my somewhat mixed reaction. The film is also being released on U.K. DVD pretty soon.','7240583b522f4cf4f649133cb1445793',0,'','gQXjerHR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9163,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184929200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Re: Hope II, an excellent example of his work, almost religious and medieval in its approach, I\'d love to se the original as it\'s the type of painting that you can dwell upon while discovering so much within the minutia. The styling also brings the Japanese block prints to mind which proved influential for quite a few european artists at the time.\r\n\r\nRe: Flanders, I\'ll definitely see it in the chapter, it\'ll be my first theatrical screening for a Dumont film. I\'m a little annoyed that the videos I had taped of La Vie de Jsus and L\'Humanit have vanished.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','6b2ab52013eb1369f94ab7d2b854d9eb',0,'','DyBTXJwp',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9164,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184938500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','If you need a copy of the first two Dumont films, I could send them to you. I\'ve recently seen Twentynine Palms at the cinema. A friend of mine fell in love with it, and I had high expectations as I own the DVD and was blown away by the images when I looked into it a bit. The film as a whole did not impress me much though (aside from bringing up some unpleasant memories from my own relationships..). I\'m was trying to write something on it, but gave up after three pages of convoluted text - I guess it will end up as one of the two dozen unfinished reviews I have lying around.\r\n\r\nI also love Klimt btw, though I haven\'t seen any of his paintings at an exhibition, yet. A friend of mine absolutely adores Klimt, and she kind of introduced me to his work some two years ago (before that, I didn\'t like him )','b86ca81c2cab85187566ff9152f6cd43',0,'','RXCdV5bH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9165,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184986440,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Trev: I\'m glad to hear that you\'ve seen Dumont\'s earlier films. I think that\'s important going into Flanders. You know what to expect and have a set of parameters to guide your critical reaction.\r\n\r\nYes, Klimt was said to have been influenced by the Japanese woodblock prints (Ukiyo-e). It\'s interesting to note that he originally referred to Hope, II as Vision, but since he\'d earlier painted a similar portrait which was called Hope (1903), this work came to known as its offspring of sorts.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA: My reaction to Twentynine Palms was perhaps quite similar to yours. But I don\'t dislike the film as strongly as many do. Nevertheless, it has \"cult classic\" written all over it.','7454664b12ef957d61ae98b6312b302d',0,'','Vomy31Mf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9166,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185017040,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','If you need a copy of the first two Dumont films, I could send them to you. \r\n\r\nI may take you up on that one day A though I\'m surprised that they haven\'t had dvd releases here.\r\n\r\nI saw the films several years ago and I\'m sure I wrote some notes on them during the first incarnation of this site. I also have Twentynine Palms on dvd but haven\'t found the inclination to watch it again.\r\n\r\nRe: Hope, Hope ll, similar yet stylistically so different, I love the way he experimented so much with his techniques to produce such a diverse range of finishes. Isn\'t it strange that so many paintings from this period, Klimt, Monet, Toulouse-Lautrec, etc were once condemned and considered controversial yet now adorn almost everything from chocolate boxes to handbags and casual clothing.\r\n\r\nB.t.w. hasn\'t John Malkovich played another artist during his career? \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','2bfe6373fc1c64d59c3c01f607fb8039',0,'','fq43vgAe',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9167,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185085980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Oh, yes, he has! ;)\r\n\r\nI\'m not positive but I think L\'Humanit is available in the U.K. from AE.','57d297b5df5a50f9f01079b9076071d4',0,'','ltKeh3wy',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9168,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185112080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Oh, yes, he has! \r\n\r\nWho was it? \r\n\r\nRe: L\'Humanite, you\'re right arsaib4, just checked on A.E.\'s site plus I noticed that I\'d listed it on the UK dvd release thread. \r\n\r\nI\'ll try and get hold of it soon. As regards \'La Vie de Jsus\', I remember how much I detested it the first time I saw it, simply because it was such an incredibly honest piece of filmmaking, I\'d really appreciate seeing it again sometime.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','921ca774ccf7c105db79f45aa34c7e3e',0,'','jwXB81Jc',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9169,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185168060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Hmmm,\r\nI cant believe the resemblance ...\r\n\r\nValkyrie (200 \r\nwww.imdb.com/gallery/ss/0...f.JPG.html','8e74d3a9e588866b7bc2371da77585b7',0,'','DS8ClgKz',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9170,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186056660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','A.E.\'s site have 12.08 East of Bucharest (A fost sau n-a fost?) (2006) - Corneliu Porumboiu down for a September screening at the Chapter so that\'ll be something to look forward to. It will probably be another week or two before the full month\'s listings are available.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','7de107197cb55edae59bab188aeec022',0,'','j21kesyp',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9171,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186992240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Corneliu Porumboiu\'s 12:08 East of Bucharest won the Camera d\'Or at Cannes \'06. For those in the U.S., the film is scheduled to appear on DVD in October.','c9767a42b383ba162881dafff49ed0b1',0,'','fw84ye5a',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9172,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187053080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Info for September is creeping in, two specials, one for John Cassavetes with screenings of Shadows (1959), Faces (1968), A Woman Under the Influence (1974) and The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976).\r\n\r\nThe other, which in all honesty appeals far more to me is for Jan Svankmajer with screenings of Faust (1994), Conspirators of Pleasure - Spiklenci slasti (1996) , Lunacy - Slen (2005) and several shorts.\r\n\r\nShould have the full September listings in a few days.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','6ffa1c72e0f0bab0d7d024e48405b29e',0,'','P5jF3T4U',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9173,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187054880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Kinda sucks that the Cassavetes films are all ones readily available and his harder to find films (at least in proper additions) like Husbands and Love Streams are left out.','6549edf7682c939e24fb70b7065c325b',0,'','Kb0dw159',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9174,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187141520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','You\'re right re: Cassavetes, hardly rare screenings by any means.\r\n\r\nAnyway, I\'ve listed everything screening in The Chapter during September, obviously there are quite a few I will not make any effort to see but at least you can get an idea of the typical diversity each month. As per usual, any and all opinions will be appreciated.\r\n\r\nItty Bitty Titty Committee (2007) - Jamie Babbit\r\n\r\nMr Beans Holiday (2007) - Steve Bendelack\r\n\r\nFaust (1994) - Jan Svankmajer\r\n\r\nDans Paris (2006) - Christophe Honor\r\n\r\nThe Walker (2007) - Paul Schrader.\r\n\r\nShadows (1959) -John Cassavetes\r\n\r\nBad Film Club: Road House (1989) - Rowdy Herrington\r\n\r\nThe Seventh Seal (1957) - Ingmar Bergman\r\n\r\nA Year Without Love (2005) - Anah Berners\r\n\r\nUnveiled (2005) - Angelina Maccarone\r\n\r\nBeyond Hatred (2005) - Olivier Meyrou\r\n\r\nWhistle Down the Wind (1961) - Bryan Forbes\r\n\r\nShut Up and Sing (2006) - Barbara Kopple, Cecilia Peck\r\n\r\nLady Chatterley (2006) - Pascale Ferran\r\n\r\nTaxidermia (2006) - Gyrgy Plfi\r\n\r\nRope (1948) - Alfred Hitchcock\r\n\r\nFaces (1968) - John Cassavetes\r\n\r\nSvankmajer shorts:\r\nThe Flat (1968), \r\nA Quiet Week in the House (1969), \r\nDon Juan (1970),\r\nLeonardos Diary (1972),\r\nDimensions of Dialogue (1982)\r\nDown to the Cellar (1983).\r\n\r\nCalon Gaeth aka Small Country (2006) - Ashley Way\r\n\r\nTales from Earthsea (2006) - Goro Miyazaki\r\n\r\nReprise (2006) - Joachim Trier\r\n\r\nDie Hard 4.0 (2007) - Len Wiseman\r\n\r\nBringing Up Baby (1938) - Howard Hawks\r\n\r\nA Throw of Dice (1929) - Franz Osten.\r\n\r\nA Woman Under the Influence (1974) - John Cassavetes\r\n\r\n28 Weeks Later (2007) - Juan Carlos Fresnadillo\r\n\r\nBlack Snake Moan (2006) - Craig Brewer\r\n\r\nConspirators of Pleasure (1996) - Jan Svankmajer\r\n\r\nOceans Thirteen (2007) - Steven Soderbergh\r\n\r\n12:08 East of Bucharest (2006) - Corneliu Porumboiu\r\n\r\nEagle vs Shark (2007) - Taika Cohen\r\n\r\nLunacy (2005) - Jan Svankmajer\r\n\r\n4 - Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007) - Tim Story\r\n\r\nRed River (1948) - Howard Hawks\r\n\r\nT he Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976) - John Cassavetes\r\n\r\nZodiac (2007) - David Fincher\r\n\r\nHuman Traffic (1999) - Justin Kerrigan\r\n\r\nShrek the Third (2007) - Chris Miller\r\n\r\nFunny Ha Ha (2002) - Andrew Bujalski\r\n\r\n2 Days in Paris (2007) - Julie Delpy\r\n\r\nEdmond (2005) - Stuart Gordon\r\n\r\nWritten on the Wind (1956) - Douglas Sirk\r\n\r\nFilms by Humphrey Jennings:\r\nSpare Time (1939), \r\nWords for Battle (1941),\r\nListen to Britain (1942), \r\nThe Silent Village (1943)\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','a9f538c468ead7624b1fca3015db26d8',0,'','e4zK5fVF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9175,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187153520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','My take\r\n\r\nReprise (2006) - Joachim Trier\r\n12:08 East of Bucharest (2006) - Corneliu Porumboiu\r\nEagle vs Shark (2007) - Taika Cohen (optional)\r\nLunacy (2005) - Jan Svankmajer\r\nHuman Traffic (1999) - Justin Kerrigan\r\n\r\nBy the way, I cannot seem to locate the DVD for Reprise,\r\ndoes anyone know of any region\'s?\r\n\r\nrgds','cd1b80fa3a3c8bee9ff10759af414608',0,'','GLBH16NV',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9176,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187178120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks hengcs, I\'ll probably see the majority of your recommendations but Eagle vs Shark (2007) has been described as New Zealands answer to Napoleon Dynamite which is a real turn off for me.\r\n\r\nRe: Human Traffic, I have seen it a couple of times but only because the majority of it was filmed in Cardiff, some of it within 5 minutes of where I live. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','24ed1ad53263a41ee59868b30a5eac9d',0,'','FBUJjo5Q',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9177,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187179140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','From the initial Sept listing, the ones I\'m most interested in and would therefore appreciate opinions on are:\r\n\r\nItty Bitty Titty Committee (2007) - Jamie Babbit\r\n\r\nDans Paris (2006) - Christophe Honor (which was due to be screened in July)\r\n\r\nThe Walker (2007) - Paul Schrader.\r\n\r\nA Year Without Love (2005) - Anah Berners\r\n\r\nUnveiled (2005) - Angelina Maccarone\r\n\r\nBeyond Hatred (2005) - Olivier Meyrou\r\n\r\nCalon Gaeth aka Small Country (2006) - Ashley Way\r\n\r\nTales from Earthsea (2006) - Goro Miyazaki. Very negative comments from Japan but one of my son\'s is keen to see it.\r\n\r\nReprise (2006) - Joachim Trier\r\n\r\nA Throw of Dice (1929) - Franz Osten.\r\n\r\n12:08 East of Bucharest (2006) - Corneliu Porumboiu\r\n\r\n2 Days in Paris (2007) - Julie Delpy\r\n\r\nEdmond (2005) - Stuart Gordon\r\n\r\nI will defitely see the Svankmajer films, may even take in the shorts.\r\n\r\nFilms by Humphrey Jennings will also a definite, The Seventh Seal on the big screen is another.\r\n\r\nOut of the mainstream screenings, I may very well see Zodiac after all the positive comments here.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','faa09b565bf9f6b881232ce378d9f109',0,'','J5N86Fs1',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9178,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187481480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Since I\'m a fan, I\'d still try to get to a Cassavetes or a Bergman screening, but perhaps not over films that may never appear again.\r\n\r\nLuncay, a co-production between Czech Rep. and Slovakia, isn\'t nearly as wry and subversive as Svankmajer\'s best work (it\'s also a tad too long). The stop-motion animated sequences however provide much needed relief. I graded it a C+/average.\r\n\r\nUnveiled has an interesting premise (the reason why I gave it a go) and it starts off strongly, but \"stranger in a strange land\" clichs do pile up eventually. The film doesn\'t quite add up narratively as well. Still, you don\'t see an Iranian lesbian falling for a possible German one every day. (C+)\r\n\r\nZodiac I feel very strongly about as you already know. Beyond Hatred finished pretty high on A\'s Best of \'06 list. I agree with hengcs re: Bucharest. There\'s another film here which I\'ll try to comment on some time next week.','b769ca86e20b81e14e14a99c00f34680',0,'','kVMr7HuJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9179,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187523840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I\'m getting more wary re: the Svankmajer films after several comments on site plus after seeing the trailer for Lunacy which did very little for me.\r\n\r\nI\'ve just searched the BBFC for info re: Itty Bitty Titty Committee (2007), but all I came up with was another film called Itty Bitty Titties and Big Fat Cocks. \r\n\r\nI see the director has worked on a lot of lightweight lesbian series and films, and the title suggests a light feminist or lesbian comedy, I note it was screened at the Berlinale 2007 as well, probably too lightweight for me but who knows. \r\n\r\nOn the other hand, Unveiled sounds pretty heavy though I could happily live without \'cliched\' cinema at the moment.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','b3f93e1a57d8d59f871caf37256afb5e',0,'','wuZ3460f',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9180,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187564100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','For what its worth, Babbit\'s previous effort, The Quiet, was very atmospheric and had a wonderful sound-design; it worked as a low-key genre film. The latest does sound more like a comedy. (I wonder how that porno was handled by the board.) Frankly, you won\'t be missing much with Unveiled; there are better, more intriguing films on the list.','c7a4e126b5539832b3eeae6a1a4f83ff',0,'','BT7QexqR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9181,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187783520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks for that info arsaib4, following my August listing, this is how it\'s gone so far:\r\n\r\nMoliere (2007) - Laurent Tirard - Didn\'t bother, not enough interest.\r\n\r\nKlimt (2006) - Raoul Ruiz - In terms of construction, it felt like a poor copy of Time Regained, I guess I was hoping for something a little different, definitely had my expectations set too high.\r\n\r\nWelcome 2 My Deaf World (2005) - Helen Gaynor - Unfortunately missed.\r\n\r\nLonging (Sehnsucht) (2006) - Valeska Grisebach - My opinion.\r\n\r\nThe War on Democracy (2007) - Christopher Martin, John Pilger - My thoughts. \r\n\r\nTen Canoes (2006) - Rolf de Heer, Peter Djigirr - Film thread.\r\n\r\nPrivate Fears in Public Places (Coeurs) (2006) - Alain Resnais - Film thread.\r\n\r\nParis Je TAime (2006) Assorted directors - unfortunately, this clashed with one of my sons 21st birthday so I missed it.\r\n\r\nThe Wild Blue Yonder (2005) - Werner Herzog - as above.\r\n\r\nWheel of Time (2003) - Werner Herzog - seeing today.\r\n\r\nLes Petites Vacances (2006) - Olivier Peyon - seeing today.\r\n\r\nThe Golden Door (Nuovomondo) (2006) - Emanuele Crialese - tickets booked.\r\n\r\nFlanders (Flandres) (2006) - Bruno Dumont - tickets booked.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','523e1aea743c9cd945821a299e736865',0,'','UTcDfLwM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9182,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187785500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','The European DVD of \"Moliere\" is out locally as an import here so I borrowed it from a friend of mine who bought it. I have to say I enjoyed it tremendously. Romain Duris does not at all take his character seriously or in an overly respectful sombre way which really makes his character fun and flawed and opens up a whole new avenue to explore. I enjoyed it more than \"Shakespeare in Love\" which is its aptest comparison. It references its fair share of Moliere\'s work so I would say that it would be a fuller experience for anyone that\'s familiar with it. Again, the best part of the film is how it works as a farce in a refreshing way of acknowledging it when it approaches it. Great supporting performances across the board as well. Would have loved to own a copy if it wasn\'t ridiculously priced for an import, had better extras and more importantly if there was another copy available since the last time I checked.','c213b7e9a117d255312328a8352f446c',0,'','QPqaZ9Hv',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9183,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187793000,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks Justin, I\'m sure I will catch Moliere sometime once the dvd has been released here, though Shakespeare in Love did nothing for me.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','c1b003ce0b9006f01bec9c82ebdd15c6',0,'','JmdF8pQZ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9184,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187853900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','The Golden Door (Nuovomondo) (2006) - Emanuele Crialese - tickets booked.\r\n\r\nI have watched it (last year\'s Italy submission to Oscar) ... but I think I did not write the review ... \r\ncomments: a very weird film indeed ... ha ha ha\r\n\r\nParis Je TAime (2006) Assorted directors - unfortunately, this clashed with one of my sons 21st birthday so I missed it.\r\n\r\nget the DVD ... i think i posted the link to it before ...','2435fc3c974ebab30ceced90d549af24',0,'','82HVPCp7',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9185,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187879220,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I\'ll wait for the R2 dvd, I\'m sure it\'ll be released soon.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','987815e52221b0cf45f048b9320ebaa0',0,'','Lq8sl9Ho',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9186,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188086940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','From what you singled out I urge you to watch as much Svankmajer as possible. He isn\'t always successful, but which filmmaker is. You should at least watch some of the earlier shorts (the one\'s that are being screened are some of his best!). If I were in your shoes I\'d try and see all of it. \r\n\r\nUnfortunately I don\'t have the catalogue for the Berlinale 2007 at hand right now, but you may check on Itty Bitty Titty Committee (2007) - Jamie Babbit on the official website (www.berlinale.com I believe).\r\n\r\nBeyond Hatred (2005) - Olivier Meyrou\r\n\r\nYou need to see this! I was completely blown away by it when I saw it last year at the Berlinale. Arsaib is right, I ranked it quite highly, actually by far the best new film I saw last year. His most recent feature I saw at this year\'s Berlinale was incidentally also the film I rated the highest at the festival (although I was more impressed by Lady Chatterley). I would love to see what you think about the technical aspects and the aesthetic choices Meyrou made with \"Beyond Hatred\". I thought they were incredibly sublime. Judging by the two films he\'s made so far he is a top-notch filmmaker who has to be watched.\r\n\r\nTales from Earthsea (2006) - Goro Miyazaki. \r\nIf you see this I\'d love to read your response as a fellow Miyazaki admirer.\r\n\r\nReprise (2006) - Joachim Trier\r\nMuch praised debut, where I at first wondered what the fuss was all about. But after giving it some more thoughts I believe I can see why this film was so enthusiastically received by numerous critics. Very fragmentary approach with remarkable camerawork, the film as a whole was sometimes too obvious and stepped a bit into the trap of many first feature films, in wanting to pack in too much into its short running time. But it also has its sublime moments. If you are keen on Trainspotting this is a film that emulates similar feelings with more success than the many imitations floating around. A post-modern mainstream movie that entertains and leaves much food for thought. If commercial cinema would be at this level, we would all live in paradise. Very good for a first effort and it might become a cult film in the future.\r\n\r\nOut of the mainstream screenings, I may very well see Zodiac after all the positive comments here.\r\nFrom what I\'ve heard and read, this is a must!\r\n\r\n\r\nConsidering the rest of the films:\r\n\r\nI\'d love to see all those Cassavetes movies. Maybe it\'s because I still haven\'t seen anything by the man (though some of his films have finally been released on DVD in Germany). You\'re not a big fan, or seen them all often enough?\r\n\r\nBad Film Club: Road House (1989) - Rowdy Herrington\r\nIf this is the Patrick Swayze Movie you should go and watch it. An unusually trashy hollywood film. I\'m sure you\'ll have a good time with the right mindset.\r\n\r\nShut Up and Sing (2006) - Barbara Kopple, Cecilia Peck\r\nI\'ve heard and read this is very good but can\'t confirm anything.\r\n\r\nLady Chatterley (2006) - Pascale Ferran\r\nYou absolutely have to see this! Filmmaking at its finest. One of the emotionally most rewarding experiences at the cinema I\'ve had this year. Too bad you missed Polley\'s Away from Her \r\n\r\nWritten on the Wind (1956) - Douglas Sirk\r\nYou don\'t like Sirk, or seen this before? If the answer to both is no, you have to see this!\r\n\r\nAnd you are not going to watch such classics as Rope, Red River or Bringing out Baby on the big screen. Shame on you','a9acdc7ec0a94491f793b5a631d6a1ce',0,'','JEuQcglf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9187,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188131160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Thanks A, in response and especially as regards the majority of the older films. If I lived fairly close to the Chapter, I have no doubt that I\'d be there a lot more often, as it is, it\'s a long trek there and back (between 6-7 miles) and the timing, especially late screenings can be very inconvenient. That\'s why, unless it\'s something I really feel I have to see or a classic I\'ve never seen, I strike them off the list.\r\n\r\nThe Seventh Seal stays because it\'s at a very convenient time (2.30pm) plus it\'s one I\'d love to see on the big screen, I\'ve seen all the other oldies apart from A Throw of Dice (1929), so hopefully I will catch that.\r\n\r\nRe: Bad Film Club: Road House (1989), I love the concept of seeing a bad movie with a live commentary and a good atmosphere but again, the timing of the event makes it impractical. It is the \"Patrick Swayze Movie\" and I do remember seeing it years ago, it definitely fits in the \"Bad Film\" category, in fact dire would be a better description.\r\n\r\nI will be seeing Lady Chatterly, but from the comfort and proximity of Cineworld, a multiplex theatre, really looking forward to this despite the running time, in fact from the brief notes from yourself and arsaib4, I\'m beginning to wish it was the full version rather than the cut down theatrical release.\r\n\r\nRe: Svankmajer, I\'ve recently picked up the excellent BFI release, Jan Svankmajer: The Complete Short Films, I may see the features shown but I\'m not 100% on that yet apart from Conspirators of Pleasure (1996) which I\'ll be doubling up with Reprise (2006).\r\n\r\nMy choices so far are as follows:\r\n\r\nDans Paris (2006) - 2.30 matinee\r\nThe Seventh Seal (1957) - 2.30 matinee\r\nTales from Earthsea (2006) - 2.30 matinee\r\n12:08 East of Bucharest (2006) - 2.30 matinee\r\nZodiac (2007) - 2.30 matinee\r\nReprise (2006)\r\nConspirators of Pleasure (1996)\r\nFilms by Humphrey Jennings (various) 5.00 matinee\r\n\r\nStill under consideration\r\n\r\nTiming issues:\r\n\r\nItty Bitty Titty Committee (2007)\r\nUnveiled (2005)\r\nBeyond Hatred (2005)\r\nA Throw of Dice (1929)\r\nSvankmajer features\r\n\r\nLack of info:\r\n\r\nThe Walker (2007)\r\nCalon Gaeth aka Small Country (2006) \r\n\r\nAs far as 2 Days in Paris (2007) and Edmond (2005) are concerned, they come at the end of Sept and may have better screening times in Oct, I\'d definitely like to see 2 Days in Paris (2007) but I\'m a little dubious about Edmond (2005).\r\n\r\nA point I should mention, having seen dozens of John Wayne films I could very happily leave this mortal coil without ever having to see or hear him again.:lol \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','f1a054173fe6a6d5e36a7b84e89e0600',0,'','ibGhLaDj',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9188,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188179580,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Hi\r\n\r\nI have finally found justin\'s comments about Tales from Earthsea, 2006 \r\n\r\nMaybe we could start a new thread becos many pple here would watch it some day ...\r\nI have the DVD but just could not afford the time to watch ...\r\n\r\n------------\r\n\r\nfrom justindeimen 29/07/2007\r\n\r\nTales from Earthsea, 2006 \r\n- I can honestly understand its appeal domestically. But I found it to be a dour adaptation that took itself very, very seriously. The final act is its best part, while the rest of it was not involving at all and bland with no creative flourishes.\r\n\r\n------------','ff217cc33be62d1f5e30156fac92dbc9',0,'','JWemM4jr',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9189,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188182640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','I aslo saw only the theatrical cut at the Berlinale though the film is fine like this. The longer version was shown on German TV last month, but I missed it! I would have even watched it with the dubbing...\r\n\r\nAnd I urge you again to watch \"Beyond Hatred\". Who knows if this film will ever get a release with english subs','7095bac362d0d7106652a7f41c2ace08',0,'','tBrsXYVl',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9190,1647,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188216420,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Future screenings at the Chapter, Opinions wanted.','Will do my best to try and see it A, time permitting. The film appears to be one that\'s a fairly regular visitor to the Chapter, this will be the third time in the last 12 months that it\'s been screened.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','5c1e7ba5455aa024be27a1e5d50a078f',0,'','aYqNlgb3',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9191,1648,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168948200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Cyrano\'s Love Letters','hi to all\r\n\r\n(1) i cant recall, but what is the movie(s) (i think there could be several versions) ... whereby the guy asked another man (who is a better writer) to write love letters on his behalf ... can you PLEASE name the movie(s) for me ... and what are the endings like ...?\r\n\r\n(2) this may be a BIG favor ... i would really appreciate if anyone could do it ... if you happen to have the video or DVD ... would you mind just capturing 1 to 2 minutes of the clip when he asked the man to do so and email me?\r\n\r\nGREATLY appreciated ...','19877122df416dec14d16f43aeaca27c',0,'','q2k8unAf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9192,1648,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168948320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Cyrano\'s Love Letters','Sounds like Cyranno de Bergerac, but slightly modified. I do however know of a French film that was very specifically like this, but I can\'t recall the name of it either.','8840b2e8d25f058484bc9a376f87bbba',0,'','4exykrdE',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9193,1648,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168969080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'jcdavies','Re: Cyrano\'s Love Letters','Sounds like Il Postino with Philippe Noiret as exiled poet Pablo Neruda helping friendly Italian postman chat up the village beauty in a more poetic + enticing manner','85b7aa1b959ad2ee1f29a9abacf63f77',0,'','Lndpes4r',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9194,1648,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1169010600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Cyrano\'s Love Letters','hengcs: Are you thinking of certain films you can\'t fully recall at the moment, or do you simply want us to name the ones in which that occurs?\r\n\r\nI like the choices above. There are numerous film versions of Rostand\'s play about Cyrano. \r\n\r\nWilliam Dieterle\'s Love Letters (1945) features a similar set-up. And I\'ve come across at least a couple of Bollywood melodramas that do also.','99ff1d170b3754cd0590515902c4b89f',0,'','QUqPgxzl',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9195,1648,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1169065680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Cyrano\'s Love Letters','Roxanne (1987) with Steve Martin is another take on Cyrano.\r\nAs arsaib pointed out, there are really dozens of films featuring such a scene.','71397f45e63279ba4f009466c6dbac1c',0,'','LlCekESM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9196,1648,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1169796600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Cyrano\'s Love Letters','\r\njust want to say THANKS to all ... \r\ni just needed an example ... preferably of a clip ... in a presentation ... \r\n\r\nnow that it is over ... i can delete this thread ...\r\nwould you ppple want to keep it?','bcada6403237516b78528d2ea799728d',0,'','Nn35BeUf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9197,1648,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1188084720,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Cyrano\'s Love Letters','No, no, we can keep it. You could just edit the title of the post. Maybe something like Cyrano\'s Love Letters \r\n\r\nI hope your presentation was successful, btw.','542a409fbe18cfa06680dc9bb51854f2',0,'','VA80LgEo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9198,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1120773180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','Director: Wang Xiaoshuai\r\nCast: Gao Yuanyuan, Li Bin, Wang Xueyang, Qing Hong, Yan Anlian, Tang Yang\r\n\r\nAt Cannes Film Festival 2005, it won the Prix du Jury !\r\nsee \r\nwww.festival-cannes.fr/fi...lm=4279993\r\n\r\nThe movie tells the story of a 19 year old girl who had a strict father who dreamed of returning to Shanghai because that was where he believed his children would benefit. He reluctantly went to Guizhou under his wifes persuasion, but he had always felt that he belonged to Shanghai but did his daughter think so? In the 1960s, a lot of families had moved from the large cities to help develop the poorer regions of the country as well as form a third line of defense.\r\n\r\nWhat I like \r\n-- Definitely the written dialogue for the parents. The way the parents reasoned and rationalized with their children really transported me back to those younger days of how typical Asian parents used to educate their kids (at least in the past, say in the 60s 70s) The parents firmly believed that it was the best for their children and they liked to say, I would rather you hate me now than to let you regret later in life How familiar?!\r\n-- At the end of the movie, it was for the audience to decide whether the plight of the female protagonist was indeed her dads fault (for being too strict), her own fault (for being too conforming) or that of times \r\n-- Although at first glance, many would dismiss the novelty of the theme (i.e., another movie about generation gap where parents and children did not meet eye to eye) I thought there slightly more to the movie \r\ne.g., it probed at belonging (where you are born or where you live? is it your house/family or a haven outside)\r\ne.g., it challenged issues of choice and helplessness (of the parents and also of the children) (do we always have a choice in life? Is conformity wise or defiance better?)\r\ne.g., it wondered about dreams (the parents or the childrens?)\r\ne.g., it reiterated the issues of stereotypes (the city dwellers and the rural people; good influence and bad influence; etc)\r\n-- Technicalities of the movie there are lots of attention to details \r\ne.g., cinematography and lightings the exteriors (also, the outside world) were always brighter than the interiors (also, the present situation)\r\ne.g., sounds most are simply that of Guizhous monotonous/boring daily sounds until the last 3 gun bangs that shattered the silence to signify a new era and a new beginning \r\n-- I also like the ensemble cast, in particular the parents and her lover (albeit few scenes) \r\n\r\nWhat I thought could be better \r\n-- The movie is pretty slow paced at times, one wonders if it could be faster \r\n-- Mentioned above, it could be easily dismissed as one of the overdone generation gap Hollywood movies but there is something more (or am I crediting the director too much?!) although much has to be inferred or would be feel by those who have gone through similar situations \r\n-- * MAJOR SPOILER *\r\nAt the end of the movie, it was unclear if the female protagonist still liked her lover. I would think so, or at least a mixed emotion Also, when she finally broke down and attempted suicide, it was unclear whether she broke down because she was raped, or because her parents chose to charge her lover with rape, or simply both. I believe different audience would interpret it differently (is this good or bad? Ha ha ha)\r\n* END OF SPOILER *\r\n\r\nConclusion:\r\nI recommend the movie only if\r\n-- you like art film and want to reminisce about those old (or younger) days \r\n-- you like to understand how many (not all) (Asian or strict) parents (at least in the past) used to educate or rationalize with their children \r\n\r\nI think it is a divisive film whereby you will either like it or simply dismiss it as another overdone film about generation gap \r\n\r\nTrivia: \r\nThe original title was I am 19. However, as the director did not want the audience to harp on the fact that the actor and actress may not be 19, he amended the title. The new title Qing Hong is simply the name of the female protagonist in the movie.','9cf249e526e3ce421c486dd07fda1f88',0,'','GMrdWkf8',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9199,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1120938540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','To those who do not need English subtitles,\r\nyou may watch the movie on DVD ...\r\nus.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1004026028/code-c/section-videos/','313fe13722e2a24d490d09c5fc9ae9ba',0,'','d6vKyWg4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9200,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1127882640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','Hi arsaib4,\r\nIt seems like you have finally gotten to watch this film.\r\n\r\nDo you care to share your review?\r\n\r\nAlso, what do you think about the following?\r\n\r\n* MAJOR SPOILER *\r\nAt the end of the movie, it was unclear if the female protagonist still liked her lover. I would think so, or at least a mixed emotion Also, when she finally broke down and attempted suicide, it was unclear whether she broke down because she was raped, or because her parents chose to charge her lover with rape, or simply both. I believe different audience would interpret it differently (is this good or bad? Ha ha ha)\r\n* END OF SPOILER *','f676c3fb6cfd710552843b2a8f49e27a',0,'','T4kzUK7L',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9201,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1128046260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','[From TIFF \'05]\r\n\r\nSHANGHAI DREAMS \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nUnlike most \"Sixth Generation\" Chinese filmmakers, Wang Xiaoshuai is a consummate storyteller. His beautifully concocted and paced narratives often contain a classic, timeless quality which is hard to find in the works of his counterparts. Wangs latest, Shanghai Dreams (Qing hong), which is his most personal film to date, sees him continuing down the same path even though at times Wang\'s narrative introduces certain tragic operatic elements with mixed results.\r\n\r\nShanghai Dreams is set in the early 1980s but it has its roots deeply dissolved in the Chinese Cultural Revolution of the 60s, when Mao initiated major relocation of industries and workers to rural areas in order to form a \"third line of defense,\" primarily for the possibility of war with the strengthening Soviet Union. Wangs parents, much like the ones of the films 19-year-old protagonist Qinghong (Gao Yuanyuan), suffered the same fate. As the film opens in the Guizhou province in southern China, reform is underway and that has led many of the migrants to wish for a return back to the cities. Qinghongs parents, especially her sullen father Wu Zemin (Yan Anlian), are hopeful for Shanghai but since the best years of their lives have now come and gone, they\'re more concerned about their two children, primarily the older Qinghong. \r\n\r\nWhile Wang expertly establishes the tense relationship which exists between the father and daughter, his major accomplishment here is that he allows us to see things from both perspectives. Wu might follow Qinghong home everyday from school and generally constrict her burgeoning individuality, but were allowed to conceive his cause also. Wu has endured the kind of hardships that he doesn\'t want his children to suffer through, so his belief is that the approach is for their benefit, even though he fails to recognize the effect his behavior is having on Qinghong who doesnt quite know where she belongs. Theres a quietly devastating scene between Wu and a local boy who Qinghong cherishes, in which he placidly explains the situation to him. And, ultimately, it\'s his character, along with that of Qinghong\'s fiery best friend (Wang Xueyang), who end up seeming more actively conflicted and complex, thus leaving more of a residue, than our one-dimensional protagonist.\r\n\r\nShanghai Dreams is Wangs first \"officially approved\" film without any cuts. It\'s handsomely produced and directed -- the lush period detail is beautifully attended to by Wang\'s skillfully composed and choreographed shots. As one could imagine, the overall tone is quite somber for a narrative whose outline is tragic enough, but it seems like Wang didnt quite trust his material on occasion. There\'s a false note or two late in the film which could\'ve easily been avoided. While the overall experience remains untarnished, it\'s disappointing especially considering the fact that Wangs previous effort, Drifters (2003), was so consistently poignant and compelling.\r\n\r\n______________________\r\n\r\n*SHANGHAI DREAMS premiered at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Jury Prize. (No U.S. distribution at this point.) \r\n\r\n*Available on DVD in the U.K. (Artificial-Eye). (Special features: Theatrical trailer, Filmographies, Production notes.)\r\n_____________________\r\n[Edit]Pic/DVD info','c8b905b5a50579622527f1a903349fd1',0,'','fl8H5xsm',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9202,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1128046800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','* MAJOR SPOILER *\r\nAt the end of the movie, it was unclear if the female protagonist still liked her lover. I would think so, or at least a mixed emotion Also, when she finally broke down and attempted suicide, it was unclear whether she broke down because she was raped, or because her parents chose to charge her lover with rape, or simply both. I believe different audience would interpret it differently (is this good or bad? Ha ha ha)\r\n* END OF SPOILER *\r\n\r\nI think there were plenty of reasons. The obvious one is what happened that night, but then if she was in another situation, it wouldn\'t have occured. I simply think that the film could\'ve done without such a thing.\r\n\r\nDo you think it was important in any way?','bfa25cfdab3eed033510e4563da383a8',0,'','MtNB1W4h',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9203,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1128414780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','\r\nQuote arsaib4, \"I simply think that the film could\'ve done without such a thing. Do you think it was important in any way?\"\r\n\r\n* MAJOR SPOILERS *\r\n\r\nWhy is the rape scene important?\r\n-- Without that scene, it would be difficult to comprehend/appreciate the way most Asian parents who adopt a tough stance on their children ... it would be a one sided view of the parents being too conservative and outdated ... with the incident, it became less clear whether the parents were at fault (i.e., for disallowing their relationship) or the children were at fault (i.e., for failing to believe their parents) ...\r\n-- The scene also reiterated how people are often compelled by circumstances and/or changed by circumstances (e.g., for him and for her) which ties in with the overall theme ... \r\n-- More importantly, I thought it was also symbolic of the \"migrants\" who were \"raped\" of their dreams (like the children\'s) ...\r\n-- Finally, due to the rape scene and the sequence of events that followed, it allows the audience to ask, \"Does he really love her? Does she really love him?\" \r\n\r\nWhy did I want to figure out the \"crying\" scene?\r\n-- Well, if she cried only because she was raped, but she was the one who called the police, then she might have ended her love over him ...\r\n-- But, if she cried because her parents have insisted on charging the guy (and eventually caused his execution and death), then she probably still loved him ...\r\n\r\n* END OF SPOILERS *','3f028892007d155e3c25851570f3289f',0,'','CvkNjLbg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9204,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1128673800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','Why is the rape scene important?\r\n...with the incident, it became less clear whether the parents were at fault (i.e., for disallowing their relationship) or the children were at fault (i.e., for failing to believe their parents) ...\r\n\r\nI thought that the dual nature of the relationship was established prior to that. Qinghong\'s suffering was internalized early on, and I think Wang should\'ve left it as such. \r\n\r\n-- More importantly, I thought it was also symbolic of the \"migrants\" who were \"raped\" of their dreams (like the children\'s) ...\r\n\r\nThat\'s rather heavy-handed \"symbolism\" don\'t you think? Perhaps something that wouldn\'t look out of place in a TV Drama.\r\n\r\n-- But, if she cried because her parents have insisted on charging the guy (and eventually caused his execution and death), then she probably still loved him ...\r\n\r\nAre you sure that he was given the death penalty? I thought his name was one which received the life sentence.','7263db69bf5199edcf123cbbd0ca6e54',0,'','bTmsCwtr',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9205,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1128676440,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','* MAJOR SPOILERS *\r\n\r\nThe guy was sentenced to death by gunshots ... and the last three bangs signalled that ...\r\n\r\n* END OF MAJOR SPOILERS *\r\n\r\nBy the way, the film could also be interpreted at the individual or society level ... either way, it was about the quest for a better life ... either way, it was also about the failure to seek a better life ... how sad ...','2a1f4dc2337cfce330abb09534160194',0,'','sdVhkC2Q',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9206,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187628900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','Just finished watching Shanghai Dreams and can only agree with the previous comments, beautifully shot and perfectly paced, a real gem of familial and social conflict with a scene that seems totally out of place and was unnecessary.\r\n\r\nMature writing and direction especially as regards the father/daughter conflict and obviously filled with personal recollections of youth, you just have to love the \"underground dance\" sequence in particular.\r\n\r\nRegarding the rape, the scene was absolutely out of place, I felt as though the director was looking for some dramatic impetus to push the family to take the final leap and head back to Shanghai, but in all honesty, it just didn\'t need it.\r\n\r\nI\'d still give it a hearty recommendation despite my one misgiving, quality filmmaking that far outshines the recent output of certain \"Fifth generation\" Chinese directors.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15. \r\n\r\nR2 dvd released by Artificial Eye, very good sound and picture quality.\r\n\r\nLimited extras, a short \"making of\", trailer and director\'s filmography.\r\n\r\nNow the \"making of\" though short, is very interesting, it also raised a query. The subs were quite different to those of the dvd and to be honest, they seemed more natural, I would guess they were from a region 3 release. I\'m just wondering if there\'s any major difference brought about by the differing interpretations in the subs, if so I\'d probably invest in the R3 dvd as well.','159f3151182adfd2ddba9224d37094f3',0,'','VCSwFLnU',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9207,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187698860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','Re: the rape and attempted suicide, since it\'s been brought up over previous posts.\r\n\r\nThere is an alternative chain of thought hengcs, a lot of women who have been raped or sexually assaulted believe that they have in some way brought it upon themselves (no matter how ridiculous that sounds). This in turn brings a strong sense of guilt, this plus the fact that she cared for her attacker, added to his arrest and imprisonment would be more than enough along with her continuing suffering under her father\'s heavy handed parenting to tip someone over the edge.\r\n\r\nI still think the whole episode was completely unwarrented though.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','b821bb339a03fb5f98027fdebae0b276',0,'','laVZTJNF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9208,1649,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187744160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Qing Hong (Shanghai Dreams) (2005) (China)','Quote trevor, \"Limited extras, a short \"making of\", trailer and director\'s filmography.\"\r\n\r\nThere is a 2 disk China edition (incl. making of).\r\nUnfortunately, it was released AFTER i have bought the 1 disc DVD (and that was like 2 years ago?!)\r\n\r\nI procrastinated purchasing it ...\r\nnow, it seems to be out of stock ...\r\nI am just wondering, if it is the same \"making of\" or a different version ... sigh\r\n\r\n* spoiler *\r\n\r\ni \"think\" (cos i cant be sure now) i originally posted the crying at the end because unlike many other audience/online reviewers?!, i choose to believe that she still likes the guy ... and the guy wouldnt have been sentenced to death if she had not told her parents about it ...\r\n\r\n* spoiler *','e46b2ff5e06b9c9e9c0f239197de5793',0,'','FJRVtSuU',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9209,1650,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187515620,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','The Willow Tree (2005) (Iran)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Majid Majidi\r\nCast: Parviz Parastui, Roya Taymourian\r\n\r\nThe official website\r\nclick\r\nhttp://www.cinemajidi.com/\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nWhat happens when a blind man is given a chance to regain his eyesight ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\n-- Whether you like the film will depend on 2 factors ...\r\n(i) whether you like the performance of the male lead ... because he is given a very tough role to play, having to grapple with internal struggles, dilemma and contradiction ...\r\n(ii) whether you buy into the plot and philosophy of what may happen when a blind man regains his eyesight ...\r\n\r\n-- There are some scenes that will remind you of scenes from earlier films of the director ... for better or for worse ... for better becos it does evoke some memories (and allow him to be consistent in his style/approach) ... for worse if you think a director should seek to innovate in every new film ...\r\n\r\n-- I like ...\r\n(i) the beginning scene, the ending scene and the last 2/3 of the film (starting from the eve before he removes his bandage) ... \r\n(ii) the music at the ending credit is also good ...\r\n(iii) it makes you think about LIFE ...\r\n... what is beauty to those who are blind\r\n... what is beauty to those who can see\r\n... is blind a curse?!\r\n... is seeing a blessing?!\r\netc\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nGiven that the lead has a very tough role to play, and the film has an important message, I will say, recommended.','43c7671281c5ddbad311b0df394bc3a8',0,'','r4iyhVCF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9210,1650,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187695680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: The Willow Tree (2005) (Iran)','Review:\r\n\r\nThe least political filmmaker of Irans new wave of cinema, Majid Majidi is also its most humanistic and spiritually attuned. His films emerge like fables, stories that reveal more about the human condition and the existential graces of being than mere character driven narratives. Unlike his Baran and Oscar nominated The Children of Heaven, Majidi now focuses his attention on Irans bourgeoisie adults in The Willow Tree but retains his exploration of the disability last observed through the young, sightless Mohammad from 2000s The Color of Paradise.\r\n\r\nMajidi sees divinity in all things human nature, love, anger, innocence and sensuality. Working from the understanding that there has to be a bigger picture, a force larger than what is perceivable, Majidi offers a tacit journey of negotiating the tenuous line of acceptance and indignation. He annotates his display of religiosity through Youssef (Parvis Parastui), a middle-aged professor of literature who despite being blind since young, has carved out a promising career and a family devoted to him. \r\n\r\nThe professor feels a deep connection to God and just like the director, views obstacles and tragedies as a series of tests to be endured and to fortify his spiritual constitution. Just as suddenly, its determined that Youssef has an operable tumour behind his eye, setting the road for events in a clinic in Paris that lead to Youssef regaining the use of his sight.\r\n\r\nWhile in most films, the abatement of despair comes from the healing of illness and disability; The Willow Tree sees beyond the banality of a happy ending and reacts to the capricious impact of change and shattered cognitive inventions. It considers the substantiality of what is imagined to be true and the veritable, hardened realisation of reality that comes with Youssefs portentous gift. After convalescing in Paris, he returns home to Iran and rediscovers and reevaluates the beginning of the rest of his life.\r\n\r\nThe stark, striking shots that consists of small spaces and laconic characters are precisely calibrated to instill subtext thats analogous to Youssefs poetic stance on life. Most prominent are the glorification of the newfound sense, reinvigorating our latent appreciation for sights and sounds. The Willow Tree is most enthralling when it boils down to a microscopic level of reassessment of a middle-aged man who reconnects with his desires and the world, while fixated on the paralysing panic of a life misspent and the reconciliation of his past and future.','21511e164151c8d22e26f076e949e392',0,'','PqV1yNkA',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9211,1651,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187701260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'chard09','Todo Todo Teros (John Torres, 2006)','*Try to catch it if this one is screening on your shores. \r\n\r\nA short review: (from the author\'s personal blog)\r\n\r\nTodo Todo Teros is groundbreaking.\r\n\r\nJohn Torres\' reconstruction of filmic language soars with beauty and depth -- a magnificence so rare that seeing it evokes a sense of pride. This is the film that every one of us should be proud of. Its narrative voice is our own: the pain of living, the love we are all dying to regain, and the identity we lost for centuries. No other film can tackle malaise, terrorism, and political unrest in such a grand way than it did.\r\n\r\nIn a scene which I think is the film\'s delusional take on the psyche of the Filipinos, Khavn, the narrator, a man, and a woman inside a car are sharing stories about the Spanish occupation of the Philippines in the 16th century. Khavn recounts the Pigafetta stories that he read, punched with impeccable wit and street humor, and babbles everything he remembers about the book. The other two continue in making side comments while the narrator, his mind far away with the memories he had with Olga, is silent.\r\n\r\nAs years pass by, we are getting passive. The pain is too much that we can no longer speak, as if the agony of our past flows in our blood. And the next line of generation has no escape.\r\n\r\nRemarkably, Torres alludes to Jean-Luc Godard\'s early works (particularly Pierrot le fou) without losing his individuality. The way he worked on a collage of footage, wrote an impressive script filled with painful verses of sublime poetry, and ended it unimaginably -- it is indeed one of the finest films that Philippine cinema has ever produced.\r\n\r\nSimply beyond admiration.','def1f8451dcddbbccf320e18cdb2e785',0,'','6tJHKZx5',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9212,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187268900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','Private Fears in Public Places - Coeurs (2006)\r\n\r\nDirected by Alain Resnais\r\n\r\nStarring Sabine Azma, Lambert Wilson\r\n\r\nAlain Resnais, as soon as I hear the name my mind automatically springs to classic titles such as Last Year at Marienbad, Hiroshima Mon Amour and Night and Fog. Recent films such as Not on the Lips havent even received a theatrical or dvd release in the UK so it was a little trepidation that I decided to see his latest output, Private Fears in Public Places.\r\n\r\nThose expecting anything like the classic titles listed will be sorely disappointed, this is not the Resnais of the 50s or 60s, in fact you would be pushed to tie anything in with the directors earlier period. But as the saying goes to be forwarned is to be forearmed and luckily I was. \r\n\r\nFor many years, Alain Resnais has been taking short breaks in the north of England, to be precise, in Scarborough. Why! you may well wonder when he could probably jet off anywhere in the world? He is a big fan of the plays of Alan Ayckbourn and regularly makes the trip to Yorkshire to see them performed by Ayckbourns theatre company. \r\n\r\nPrivate Fears in Public Places is actually the second adaptation of an Ayckbourn play, the first Intimate Exchanges became the 2 part Smoking/No Smoking (1993). Thus although I havent seen Smoking/No Smoking I knew that in most respects this film would be a fairly direct translation of the play.\r\n\r\nSo to the film itself, 6 characters lives are intertwined in their comings and goings in Paris, fear is the key, and for the main part its the fear of being alone. There are other fears including that of commitment and guilt, fears that show through the public and private facades of each of these individuals. \r\n\r\nThrough the many scenes the viewer is given snatches of conversation, some truth and some lies though at times (as in real life) its difficult to discern one from the other as characters connect/disconnect. \r\n\r\nOne person seems to float above all this, Charlotte, played by Resnais wife Sabine Azma works in an estate agents in the daytime and as a carer in the night. A devout Christian, shes the type who never gives up but even here, there is a hidden wicked side that comes out towards the finale of the story.\r\n\r\nEach separate small scene is interconnected by falling snow which is the only thing that gives an air of the unreal, several of the settings have an almost stage feel but everything fits together very well. All the performances are very good though it did bother me that the age gap between the actors who played the brother and sister made them look more like father and daughter. \r\n\r\nHumorous and serious by turn, this is a warming adaptation of Ayckbourns play, well edited and paced, it\'s an enjoyable drama with fine performances. The move to Paris and minor changes add warmth to the overall tone, just try to forget that it is an Alain Resnais film. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 12a\r\n\r\nDistributed by Artificial Eye.','f2eb00393d67f4e0c0e3c82c627eabcf',0,'','vZageysS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9213,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187333280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','\"The move to Paris and minor changes add warmth to the overall tone, just try to forget that it is an Alain Resnais film.\" \r\n\r\nOuch! \r\n\r\nBesides Private Fears, of course, which previous Resnais film, chronologically speaking, have you seen?','534df374f631a821886e3e938f38f537',0,'','z5MR3lVt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9214,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187333520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','I missed this film at the European Cinema festival, at the Music Box premiere, but its on DVD, so come hell or high water I\'ll get to it. I need to work on some Resnais, and wouldn\'t mind revisiting a few films of his I\'ve already seen, particularly Muriel and Le Guerre Est Fine.','23fa17bf41ee2965081b976b26437f40',0,'','GDJry8AQ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9215,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187345400,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','I found the film enjoyable, more so than I expected but I was thinking back to A\'s comment,\r\n\r\nYou also might enjoy Resnais\' Coeurs. I saw it a couple of days ago and it was the first of his films I disliked, and didn\'t enjoy over the whole running-time. I thought it wasn\'t artificial enough and fairly conventional. But most people are quite enthusiastic about it. \r\n\r\nIt is fairly conventional but that\'s purely down to Resnais interpreting and respecting Ayckbourn\'s original play, that\'s why I\'d say try to forget that it is an Alain Resnais film and just enjoy it for what it is.\r\n\r\nLast film chronologically was Mon oncle d\'Amrique (1980), though to be honest, I can\'t remember much about it. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','5b6de759877c284944add6d5c2d32c29',0,'','sUbwDCR9',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9216,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187405340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','Amazing that you liked the film so much, trevor!\r\n\r\nI watched it together with A at a local cinema (Fortunately, the output of french films by german distributers is very large) and also liked it. I was amused by it, but a bit disappointed because I was ONLY amused, not more.\r\n\r\nBut now, a few months later, it seems like a really big disappointment to me. Almost as just another french \"RomCom\" like they were released in masses, more than before after the huge success of \"Le Fabuleux destin d\'Amlie Poulain\". And I\'m not convinced that it is the kind of film that grows after the second viewing. Not to mention the fact that Resnais has done some breathtaking masterpieces in the past.\r\n\r\n6 out of 10.','9bac40b3f4e7b85fc054c047b6d984ef',0,'','nXAplZix',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9217,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187435700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','I watched but I guessed I was toooooooooooo tired.\r\nI felt asleep after 20 min or so.\r\nI guess I will rewatch it.','90f180e4185ad79e0dbe68a3b64301e9',0,'','U8GswvKH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9218,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187438280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','I\'m sure that Private Fears in Public Places will not make my top 10 for the year but it is the best of the few French light comedy dramas I\'ve seen this year.\r\n\r\nIt seemed like a huge step down for Resnais but as previously mentioned, he is a big fan of Alan Ayckbourn\'s plays and as such, this is a good translation with a touch of Gallic warmth. I have to wonder what the general populace of France thought of it though as it still has a very British feel, particularly to the sometimes acerbic nature of the humour.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','cf5ed16d339f2b82e75866d2d66bef97',0,'','mWyxqBDC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9219,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187439660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','The film won the Best Director at Venice Film Festival 2006.\r\n\r\nIn case anyone should misconstrue my post as ... the beginning was boring. Nope, it wasnt. My intention in posting was simply to inform that: I was VERY keen on this film. And so i wanted to watch it (you could tell that I am procrastinating on other films). But I was VERY tired ... So, I am DEFINITELY going to watch it again.\r\n\r\nPS: it is so rare that many of us happen to watch a recent film ... i.e., with all of us being located at different parts of the world ... cf. other posts, usually only 1 or 2 of us manage to catch it ...','886098d7f57d0ee94566d308271d89da',0,'','eN2apm1F',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9220,1652,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187480520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Private Fears in Public Places (France/Italy)','That\'s pretty much what I gathered from your comments, Trevor; I didn\'t think that you liked it a lot (though a tad more than Orchestra Seats, I presume).\r\n\r\nIf the likes of Mlo, Smoking/No Smoking, Not on the Lips, etc, were available in your neck of the woods and/or you had seen them, then you probably wouldn\'t have been as surprised with Private Fears as you appear to be (though I must say that I\'ve yet to see the film, but from what I\'ve read it follows in a similar vein). When compared to, say, a Rivette or a Chabrol, Resnais\' career has been slightly more varied. Coeurs was a critical and box office success. And, as I briefly mentioned earlier in the U.S. DVD thread, Muriel is now available.','cd67c0b8d83e90f771a0676f371ab8af',0,'','ip71GaJ0',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9221,1653,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187436900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Bastards (Svolochi) (2006) (Russia)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Aleksandr Atanesyan\r\nCast: Sergei Rychenkov, Aleksandr Golovin, Andrei Panin, Andrei Krasko\r\n\r\nThere is much controversy over this film as Russians challenged the truth and accuracy of the film, demanding that the director produced evidences ...\r\n\r\nWhen it won the award at MTV, \r\n\"Presenter refuses to reveal MTV Russia film winner\"\r\nclick\r\nhttp://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200704/s1903637.htm\r\n\r\nQuote, \"Vladimir Menshov gasped as he read the contents of the envelope, looked up and said: \"I\'m not going to hand over an award to a film that discredits my country, let Pamela Anderson (another of the evening\'s presenters) do it instead\".\"\r\n\r\nQuote, \"MTV spokesman Vladimir Smirnov said Menshov\'s reaction had been totally spontaneous and \"was not part of the scenario\" planned by MTV. \"Vladimir Menshov offered his own point of view on Svolochi. We treat Vladimir - one of the most well-known Russian film directors - with great respect, as well as the MTV viewers who made their choice,\" he said. \"They watched the film and liked it.\"\"\r\n\r\nFrom other source, it seems like the director has based the story on Vladimir Kunins autobiographical novel, Mika and Alfred. But the author has later confessed that the story is fictitious.\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nIt tells the story of boys who are sentenced to death penalty being given a supposedly second chance to pay back to their motherland, USSR. In the \"school\", they are taught tactics and skills to break into enemy line ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\n-- I humbly think the director did break away from a few \"moulds\" that we are so accustomed to seeing in this kind of film ...\r\n\r\n(i) Although the training \"school\" is tough, it does not take the typical route of \"sadistic\" trainers who have a heart, nor \"in the end, you will know i am a good instructor\", etc\r\n\r\n(ii) Although many tragic incidents do occur, it does not fall into melodrama ... instead, they are depicted straight in the face, with all its grimness and gravity ... and life goes on ...\r\n\r\n(iii) Although it seems to be a story about war, it does not have many \"bombs\" and \"attacks\" ... instead, it should be understood as a film about undertsanding humanity and bonds ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nIf we are willing to overlook its historical accuracy, the film is very stirring and depressing ... recommended!','b097e63656cc77fc68855fccfa742f61',0,'','invctBJf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9222,1653,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1206079380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Bastards (Svolochi) (2006) (Russia)','A review from a website that I rather like \r\nclick \r\nhttp://www.kinokultura.com/2006/13r-svolochi.shtml','fded5a351aae662287c09d9f208360b3',0,'','KuXn9AoC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9223,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119341880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Just came back from watching two films by acclaimed turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan, and I\'m not quite sure what to make of it. Despite travelling problems - though the films were shown in the same city i live, i travelled 1and1/2 hours there and 3 1/2h back - i nevertheless enjoyed 4 1/2h of european auteur cinema. \r\n\r\nFirst I have to admit that I had very high expectations, especially for Uzak, (which must have won almost all major film awards it seems) and also a bit for \"Clouds in May\".\r\n\r\nThough Uzak imo isn\'t quite the masterpiece it could have been, the themes of alienation in a big city are presented in an original way. A director who has lost (and maybe betrayed9 all his former ideals (He wanted to make films like Tarkovski once) lives in Istanbul, where a male relative comes to stay with him for a short time, searching for work, and turning the loners regulated and terribly boring and redundantive life upside-down. Confronted with his despicable self and his cynism, the protagonist (great performance by Mustafa zdemir) must at the end realize that his life(concept) has failed, while the visitor returns as suddenly as he has appeared. In one very impressive sscene the protagonist is shown with his great fear of life and love, his wounded heart and the scars that he\'s received during his life at once exposed. It is only a minute in a car in the midst of a breathtaking countryside, and two or three words of dialogue. In between we see two short talks with the ex-wife who is moving with her new husband to Canada to start a new life. At the first of the two meetings she tells the protagonist, that she can\'t have children any more, probably because of a former abortion during her divorce with the protagonist. This most intimate scene in the whole film is filmed static (as the whole film) and very laid back, with no change in the framing, mise-en scene, lightning, or anything else than where Ceylan has filmed the characters watching TV. The very static takes and minimalist dialogue establish a mood in the film that is at the same time hyper-realistic and hyper-sensitive/, somewhere between Kiarostami, Ozu and Bergman. There is also a dream sequence in the film, which hardly stands out from the rest. Under a carpet of snow the films Istanbul seems like an unidentifiable moloch that sucks out the souls of its inhabitants, while seemingly staying the same over the year. As one character exclaims in \"Clouds in May\" one cannot distinguish the seasons in Istanbul. The characters are helplessly lost and trapped in their lives and any escape is only an escape from oneself. Nevertheless at the end of the film there is almost a feeling of hope, as a new day begins, if not for the protagonist, at least for the viewer who has learned a life lesson in only two hours in the dark.\r\n\r\nClouds in May from 1998 Ceylan\'s second film (about the filming of his first) must be somehow the second part of an (until now?) unofficial trilogy, with Uzak at its end. The same protagonists are presented here though not yet as disillusioned and estranged by life. Three generations are presented in this tale of birth and death, showcasing nature and mans place in it he tries to find. While shooting a fake documentary the protagonist fails to record (Ceylan does it instead for us) the wonders of life happening around himself, and is unable to connect with his fellow people. Traditions are vanishing, family\'s fAlling appart, in short, life is moving on without anybody noticing. At the end we have a beautiful finale where the sense and fulfillment of one life are shown, and the viewer is released with a feeling that he has somehow become a better person.\r\n\r\nNow 7 hours later at 7 o\'clock in the morning the two films appear to be better than when i saw them.\r\nStrange, how writing about a film can change our opinions of it.\r\nMy initial rating of **1/4 / **** for clouds in may has jumped from **1/2 / **** two hours ago, to **3/4 / ****, and Uzak is Now on ***1/2 / **** and maybe a masterpiece after all...\r\nI\'ll report if my opinion of the films will be even higher tomorrow :lol :lo:eek','8568350a5648cd87b4a14459c858c98c',0,'','apdEuv2z',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9224,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119383640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Uzak has some great moments, it also made me think, it\'s so easy to give up on your goals and settle into a routine existence which is why I described it as a wake up call for the middle-aged in a previous (now lost) post. It\'s a grower of a film as well, I wasn\'t too sure how I felt after seeing it the first time but elements of it stuck in my mind and I found I appreciated and enjoyed it more on subsequent viewings. I haven\'t seen any of the directors other films but I would like to.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','eb8b85ec3086849899287eb0ba69e921',0,'','nDwBVkUt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9225,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119408180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Good reviews, A. I prefer Ceylan\'s earlier work (Kasaba/Clouds of May) over Uzak. It just felt overly familiar to me. Kiarostami of course have been an influence, but for stretches it felt like I was watching a Tsai-Ming Liang film set in Istanbul.','8e88989b857310afba12372ddf3d6e3e',0,'','ofthXe3Z',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9226,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119435600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','I can see the similiarity with Tsai-Ming Liang, although at times I felt I was watching a Kaurismki film, the difference for me is I could unfortunately associate more with the central character in Uzak, not something I\'m too happy about.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','aa85abd660c3f5a74e4670f66166bdd7',0,'','vaPdQErB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9227,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119612120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Yes, Tsai Ming-liang is a good comparison, though I find his characters and views more subtle. My initial enthusiasm has worn off a bit again, but the two films were a good double-feature. I could also associate myself with the central character, but he was very unsympathetic (is that a word?) to me, meaning I didn\'t like him at all :)','bec1a305903ec10702e32e5fe8c76255',0,'','Z5eC8WaM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9228,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119621840,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','the difference for me is I could unfortunately associate more with the central character in Uzak\r\n\r\nBy this I meant he\'s everything I don\'t want to be but everything we could all easily slip into, losing your dreams and ideals and living everyday in a dull routine.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','61ba1659f1f06570f60e40fc2a07eec9',0,'','u8b7BakP',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9229,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119651900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Yes, I agree with that. It\'s also what I meant, only with a bad tendency, if I look at myself...','9f2a9bf5e7422c92698c327e91c14052',0,'','VtN0URpD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9230,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185210420,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Originally posted by Sara 9/25/05\r\n\r\nWhat an interesting film. Lots of snowy scenes - adding to the loneliness one feels here - and distance between people - if only they would talk to each other. So much introspection and introversion.\r\n\r\nCeylan was a great lover of Tarkovsky. And there were clips on the TV set (that the character was watching) of Stalker and Solaris - (when the character didn\'t switch it to a porno DVD!)\r\n\r\nThere were long takes of the faces and you could feel their thoughts. Things were paced beautifully.\r\n\r\nCeylan is a bit like Bresson, I think, in that he does not use \"actors.\" And there is not a lot of talking.\r\n\r\nThe scenes are beautiful - especially the snow scenes and those by the river with the boat going by.\r\n\r\nIt moves slowly. And there is humor. But I was left with a feeling of loneliness at the end.\r\n\r\nIncluded on the DVD is a short film by the director called \"Cocoon\" (or \"Koza\" 1995) that featured the director\'s mother and father (both old) and a young boy. Black and white. Please, if it is on the DVD you see, tell me what in h*** it is about. I am lost on this.\r\n\r\nBut Distant is good, and I recommend it. The faces are beautiful.\r\n\r\nI have not told you about the plot or reviewed the film. Go to IMDB for that. \r\n\r\nOr maybe some of you have seen it and will talk about it here.\r\n\r\nSara','6df22380120e650cb8cd7362b7ab3104',0,'','Ev0clSiZ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9231,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185210540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Originally posted 9/26/05 \r\n\r\nKoza (1995) (Cocoon) seems to me to be full of reflective memories brought to life by the surrounding sounds and images. I would guess that the child we see was the old man and though we often see the woman, she has either moved or passed away. \r\n\r\nThe photos, sounds and sights collectively trigger these responses in someone alone and left with a lifetime of memories wrapped up in his own cocoon.\r\n\r\nAs for Uzak - Distant, I enjoyed the film, surprisingly so did my sons. It has certainly taken a lot of influences from elsewhere including films from directors such as Tsai Ming-liang and Tarkovsky of course.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','131507567abe1ea4b13ac372257f8891',0,'','pcG6eoZX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9232,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185210720,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Originally posted by Sara 9/27/05 \r\n\r\nThanks, trevor, for the insight into Koza. I need to see it again sometime. Somehow I thought the boy was Ceylan - as the credits say both the man and woman are his parents. But even so, what you say about being alone in a cocoon makes sense to me.\r\n\r\nGlad you liked Distant. I had never heard of Ceylan, and from now on I will be on the lookout for any new films he directs.\r\n\r\nSara','9435c2d180a420dda6574081076399de',0,'','am0EglbX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9233,1654,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185210780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Uzak + Clouds in May - not quite a review + Koza (Turkey)','Originally posted 9/27/05\r\n\r\nThe old people in the film were played by his parents I don\'t think they are meant to be his parents. If you see it again you\'ll note there isn\'t a single shot where you see the older pair and the young boy in the same frame, they\'re always seperate and the triggers both aural and visual point to recollections of youth. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','ce6c19058fda59b8fdd62ff343588875',0,'','md4GVH2p',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9234,1655,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187337480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Brave Story (Japan) (2007)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Koichi Chigira\r\n\r\nThis film was in competition for the Best Anime in Japan Academy Awards 2006. It however lost to The Girl Who Leapt Thru Time.\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nit tells of the adventure of Wataru (an eleven-year-old kid) who wishes to undo the past and save his beloved. In order to do so, he has to go through some tests that challenge his wits and guts ...\r\n\r\nPrior to watching, I was not aware that Brave Story also deals with a similar theme/message to the winning anime (The Girl Who Leapt Thru Time)... that is, if we could turn back the clock ... could we?! should we?!\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\nWhat i like\r\n\r\n-- The first 20 min or so (until the moment Wataru ventures into this other world) is very gripping ... For a moment, I thought the beginning was more exciting than The Girl Who Leapt Thru Time.\r\n\r\n-- The last 20-30 min or so is also great ... although there is predictability in its morality and message, it still manages to hit the right chords and bring some sadness into its supposedly \"happy\"?! ending ... I thought the last scene was rather great ... reminding me of some Hong Kong TVB drama (in the sense that the character\'s face is never shown, but we all think we know who they are) ...\r\n\r\nWhat could be better ...\r\n\r\n-- Pardon me, but I think the \"adventure/challenges\" in the other world is kind of similar to many other Japanese anime ... there is no huge surprise ... It is not bad, but it did not wow me away ... \r\n\r\nBecause of this entire middle segment, I humbly think The Girl Who Leapt Thru Time is a better film dealing with the same theme/message ... Why can\'t we simply do away with all these \"other\" world (with different creatures) and keep it simple?! If the entire middle is revamped, I might have liked it much more ...\r\n\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nI like the front and the end, the middle is so-so.\r\nAs a whole, I prefer The Girl Who Leapt Thru Time ... \r\nBut in terms of beginning, I think Brave Story is rather engaging ...','8d41b9c240b53093ca64abd58c8eb09a',0,'','L8gfA7Cq',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9235,1656,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186042800,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Flash Point (Dao Huo Xian) (2007) (Hong Kong)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Wilson Yip\r\nCast: Donnie Yen, Louis Koo, Collin Chou\r\n\r\nThe official website\r\nclick\r\nhttp://www.flashpointthemovie.com\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nThe story revolves around a capable cop who is great at capturing his criminals (except that he often uses excessive violence) and a gang of three brothers ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\n-- Well, another commercial film targeted at audience who loves action. \r\n\r\nIn terms of shock, violence and gore, it sure beats the other film \"Invisible Target\".\r\n\r\nBut in terms of story, I would have preferred the latter. As usual, the female characters often take on too minute a role in these films. \r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nCan watch ... If you love action and violence, this is it.','bf065f2f0532681ea33925e00297ae92',0,'','wPX1A0Jc',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9236,1657,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185338880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','2 Sons of Francisco (2 Filhos de Francisco) (2005) (Brazil)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Breno Silveira\r\nCast: ngelo Antnio, Dablio Moreira, Marcos Henrique, Dira Paes, Mrcio Kieling, Thiago Mendona\r\n\r\nNot only was this film Brazil\'s submission to Oscar 2006, but also it broke the box office record for the past 25 years ...\r\n\r\n\r\nSynopsis \r\nThe film tells the story of the successful country music duo Zez Di Camargo & Luciano from their birth to the present days (i.e., in 2005) ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\n-- Well, it is tough for me to comment on this film. But to be fair, I would say, there are 3 aspects that I like, and 2 aspects that I do not.\r\n\r\nI like it for \r\n(i) its VERY meaningful songs, not just 1 but 2 or 3 (very touching indeed); I guess I could listen to them again ... hee hee ... esp. \"O dia em que eu sair de casa (The day I left home)\" and \"E o Amor (It is love)\" ... wow ...\r\n(ii) three particular scenes, 2 are touching, and 1 is shocking ... * no spoilers here * \r\n(iii) a more compelling 1st half of the film (i.e., their younger days), even though it gets a while to be engaging ...\r\n\r\nI thought it could be better on the following ...\r\n(i) somehow, the film does not grip sufficiently; IMHO, I feel that it is \"inconsistent\" in terms of its overall quality ... there are scenes that are really good, but a number of other scenes simply feel inadequate ... most impt of all, I think the 2nd half (i.e., their adult days) is kind of weak ... it is a bit out of sync with the 1st half, and it is not well developed ...\r\n(ii) i recall that the film did not explain how Emival learned to play the guitar, although it did feature how Mirosmar learned the harmonica ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nWatch it and decide for yourself. \r\n\r\nRegardless, I think we should applaud the film for its awesome songs which are VERY meaningful ... and with the story, the lyrics mean even more ...\r\n\r\nPS: Some synopsis does give away the SHOCK in the film ... read at your perils ...','1c929f35fe565e7c2ea6597abd91b177',0,'','0Lf3wg7T',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9237,1657,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187250900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: 2 Sons of Francisco (2 Filhos de Francisco) (2005) (Brazil)','I can\'t believe this\r\nI am watching the film again, BUT now on a BIG screen ...\r\n\r\nPS: If you are a singaporean reading this, you would like to know that this film has replaced Pel Eterno in the current Brazilian Film Fest.','8999f1efc55cc8ea7ae49d05fc467559',0,'','g3rjcdoL',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9238,1658,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187093100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Secret (Bu Neng Shuo De Mi Mi) (2007) (Taiwan)','\r\n\r\nDirector: Jay Chou\r\nCast: Jay Chou, Kwai Lun-Mei, Anthony Wong\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nIt traces the first love of Lun (or Jay) (a newly transfered high school kid) and Yu (or Rain). They both love the piano, and they both love each other ... but as the title states ... SECRET ... so do not read any reviews that give the plot away ...\r\n\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\nWhat I like ...\r\n\r\n(i) Definitely the piano pieces. if you are a fan of piano and music, you will like the film. there is even a segment where two parties are competing their skills on the piano. also, i like the segment whereby the girl asks him, \"why do you love to play the piano with one hand?\" ... and guess what is the answer?! ... hee hee\r\n\r\n(ii) Considering that it is Jay\'s directorial debut and the film is completed within 40 days, you have to give credit to him. It at least does not bore, and it does not feel too unpolished. While I would not claim that it is totally awesome/flawless, I think it is highly commercially viable ... \r\n\r\nPS: and to those who are not aware, jay is rather popular with the teenagers (i.e., as a singer) ... so his popularity has helped boost the box office ... and apparently, the film is doing very well in regions with Chinese ...\r\n\r\n(iii) If you do not know the secret, the film does have that added surprise ... my \"fun\" was spoilt because one of the headlines in certain article gave the story away ... sigh ...\r\n\r\nPS: if one were to know the secret, the film might come across as rather \"familiar\" and less \"surprising\", maybe one could draw some similarities from other Korean films, Japanese films, or even a few US films ... did you guess it?!\r\n\r\nWhat could be better ...\r\n\r\n(i) Although there are some great moments, there are some moments of inconsistency and some scenes of \"exaggerated\" acting ... don\'t tell me this is unavoidable just because one wants to incorporate comical scenes ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nConsidering it is his directorial debut, worth watching.','e25e0a66993407283aa7b5b31790fe3f',0,'','wZjgW0Qh',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9239,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1169643360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','\r\n\r\nedited by admin \r\n\r\nhi arsaib4, \r\nsorry for merging the two threads','242b79e0ec0b757c483b73eac16a1158',0,'','fKblH6ic',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9240,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160508240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'howardschumann(d)','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Seen at the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF)\r\nSTILL LIFE (Sanxia Haoren) \r\n\r\nDirected by Jia Zhanke (2006)\r\n\r\nThis week China announced that about 300,000 more people than planned will be relocated as a result of the construction of the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River, bringing the total displaced to more than 1.4 million. The $22.5-billion US dam, a megaproject five times the size of the Hoover Dam, which has been heavily criticized by environmental and human rights groups, was begun in 1993 but will not go into full operation until 2008. The project\'s effect on ordinary Chinese is the focus of Jia Zhangke\'s latest film, Still Life, the surprise winner of the Golden Lion Award at this year\'s Venice Film Festival. \r\n\r\nSet in the village of Fengjie, since submerged in water to make way for the dam, Jia\'s slow-paced, class-conscious effort dramatizes the life of villagers who have been forced from their homes, had their traditional way of life destroyed, and sent to live in cities against their will, often having to resort to begging and garbage collecting, or even prostitution to stay alive. The film, along with its companion documentary Dong, tells overlapping stories of the emotional trauma of local people caught in the dislocation at Fengjie while a new village is being built. \r\n\r\nIn the first sequence, Han Sanming, a middle-aged coal miner from Jia\'s home Shanxi province, arrives on a ferry to look for his ex-wife, Missy after sixteen years of estrangement. All he has to rely on is an address given to him many years ago, completely unaware of the demolition and flooding in the area. Avoiding local swindlers, he tracks down Missy\'s uncle who tells him that his former wife is now in Yichang with his teenage daughter. Staying on to work in the demolition projects, Han engages in conversations with other workers who complain of the low wages they are receiving (60 to 70 Yuan a day) and want to return to Shanxi province with Han where they can earn 200 Yuan a day working in the dangerous coal mines.\r\n\r\nIn the second story, Shen Hong (Zhao Tao), a nurse arrives from Shanxi as well and is also searching for a missing person, her husband Guo Bin, who left the family two years ago. She is aided in her search by archaeologist Wang Dongming but it is uncertain what course of action Shen has in mind when she reunites with her husband. The film, however, is not about the story line but about the landscape and the atmosphere, playfully charged by the CG appearance of a UFO and a spaceship that takes off in the middle of the rubble. \r\n\r\nIn Still Life, Jia demonstrates to the world how one of China\'s most gorgeous areas, one that brings in 1.3 million tourists a year, has become a scene of squalor. Jia says: \"We all know there is major change going on in China and I wanted to get more people to know what\'s happening. I will continue to make films along these lines and explore the problems of the weaker social classes.\" If Jia\'s future projects contain the unmatched cinematography, compelling story, and characters whose lives touch us as Still Life, we have much to look forward to.\r\n\r\nGRADE: A','0e664dff073af56b5e0330afec4a7ecf',0,'','xNnRLZw4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9241,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160552280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','wow ... it is great that you have seen the film and like it ...\r\n\r\napparently, it was touted a \"surprise\" win becos many audience/critics (before the announcement of the awards) did not really like it ... claiming that it has not much plot and is too slow for comfort ... \r\n\r\ni have not seen it ... and i will try to catch it ...\r\n\r\nPS: By the way, do you know that the poster was intentionally designed to look like one of the currency denomination in China?','0aa1319dce23e91401e7ef7830eacede',0,'','kmDU1iCA',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9242,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160554560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'howardschumann(d)','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','I didn\'t realize that the audience or critics didn\'t like it at Venice. I hadn\'t heard this before. All I heard was that it was a late entry and most expected Bobby or some other hyped film to take the prize. Yes it is slow and there is not much plot but it is very natural and true to life.','c3dc8914c85031e8a148b8da5718de91',0,'','cJBZTmqi',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9243,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1169644200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','DONG (Hong Kong-China / 2006)\r\n\r\nIf Jia Zhang-kes masterful new narrative film, Still Life (2006), could also be seen as a documentary, then perhaps his first feature-length documentary, Dong (East), should be examined as a work which contains fictional elements. For instance, Jia regular Han Sanming, who plays one of the protagonists in the Golden Lion winning effort, appears in Dong as if he was in character, becoming thoughtful and morose while gazing across the Yangtze River to the town of Fengjie as it gradually turns into rubble due to the construction of the monumental (and controversial) Three Gorges Dam nearby. (Also, there are certain shots that surface in both films.) Jia was invited to the Sichuan province by acclaimed Chinese figurative painter Liu Xiao-dong -- who was previously seen in Wang Xiaoshuais The Days (1993) and Jias own The World (2004) -- to film him while he worked on a large polyptych of 11 haggard, near-naked laborers (many of whom are also present in Still Life). Jia captures the paintings and the bodies with slow pans that, much like the art itself, blur into the overwhelming milieu which surrounds them. (Since Dong was reportedly conceived first, its quite possible that Still Life simply ended up being the extention of what Jia discovered on his journey.) The second half of this 66-minute film takes place in Bangkok, where Liu attempts to do the same with just as many young female \"models.\" Much like what he did with Han earlier, Jia follows one of the girls in attempt to gain a scope of her displacement in this rapidly changing part of the world (when she appeared on a neon-lit overpass I thought Jia was about to pull a Hou). Exquisitely shot on high-definition video -- by Jia, his long-time DP Yu Likwai, along with Chow Chi-sang and Tian Li -- Dong is accomplished enough to stand on its own, but it functions best as a companion piece to Still Life.\r\n\r\n___________________\r\n\r\n*DONG premiered at the 2006 Venice Film Festival, where it won the \"Open\" and the \"Doc/It\" awards. No U.S. distributor at the point.','cb39d216902e871c49b489e9454332fe',0,'','Ng8r0m34',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9244,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1176787020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Dong\r\nHere\'s the English subtitled version\r\n\r\nglobal.yesasia.com/en/Prd...004749175/','786fcd733663f4a7eb754018592b9fc0',0,'','0R9BoaCA',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9245,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1206390600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','\r\n\r\nmerged','acb16029d94ad04f7786741d9952a829',0,'','gLpxGhHk',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9246,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1211447400,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Finally saw Still Life and was stunned by it. Not much happens and its not really all that important what we do see. The compositions are so amazing though that I found myself just transfixed by the images on the screen. I can certainly see how this film might cause a bit of controversy in China, but as a piece of filmmaking it is superb.','0208000d1d42c1e0356f63c62e2b3749',0,'','E1urdRt9',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9247,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1211969100,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Here\'s hoping that New Yorker will put it out on DVD within an appropriate time frame and won\'t take as long as it did with Moolaadé. \r\n\r\nChinese DVD (R6/PAL/English Subtitles): \r\n\r\nStill Life - U.S. $7.99','44dcdfb117d70daaf64f542d7ff52b35',0,'','8bgwsu41',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9248,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212015540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','I\'ve seen the Chinese DVD and decent presentation, but a bare bones disc for the most part and although with English subtitles the menus are in Chinese so just take a guess at what to select.','67e3dd22e6a235bbb713a8ff0248d73e',0,'','p6QwStW1',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9249,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212030240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','I was under the impression that you caught it on the big-screen (like I did, twice).','3aad5ad33b46257c64993bb3230b7015',0,'','rMWFJoza',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9250,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212077940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Facets got the DVD so I got it too. Poverty prevented me from seeing it on the big screen.','43de9ff96306fda72caa17fc102fab01',0,'','ZTGSvd3e',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9251,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212128220,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','I know what you mean. I really wanted to attend the screening of Antonio das Mortes recently but with the gas and the ticket prices as they are now it would\'ve amounted to a yet another $40+ trip, so I had to make-do with the third generation tape that I have. \r\n\r\nIt\'s good to see that Facets is keeping up with the imports.','179961965b9497fad4a6b7cf60b9023b',0,'','QC3sfVko',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9252,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212162900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Not bad, but you never know what they\'re going to get and when, luckily there\'s more than enough to watch while I wait.','4f0c91e1091c761027f447e822de1a89',0,'','XkztQDyu',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9253,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212194040,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Btw, next time you\'re there could you please check with them if they actually did release a new German film called Bungalow? I haven\'t been able to confirm that. Thanks, dude.','c01c9a1ebd16c6372ad172165b2815d6',0,'','FCHjB7JY',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9254,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212202080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Will do, what\'s the information on the film?','557b6d47d733a47d3c62128dad442050',0,'','ri7gUHvm',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9255,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1212206400,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','It\'s a 2002 film directed by Ulrich Köhler (my post). Facets was supposed to release the DVD late last year.','7f7272bbb36ed9b62b64a96c041a8855',0,'','sTRmAGED',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9256,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1216114500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Release Date: Oct 14 (New Yorker Home Video)','6249fc81b9985ac78d891278ad139a2e',0,'','j7YR0nZf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9257,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1216145880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Oh New Yorker is releasing it, so give or take a year? \r\n\r\nI did however find they released The Last Supper in relatively short time, so maybe there\'s hope with that dreadful company.','12f47e22cf65badfe47f76a3ce1dc9c3',0,'','f3wa1AF4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9258,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1216193760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','At least a year. It would\'ve been funnier if I had specified \'08, or, better yet, \'08 - \'11. Here\'s hoping that Bellocchio\'s The Wedding Director is also in the works.','ff62c0d8e239b1f806c392332aec0505',0,'','8Hzlt96M',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9259,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1216223340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','I know they had the theatrical rights to the Bellocchio and I\'m hoping that with their previous release maybe they\'ll get it done this decade. However I do not put a great deal of faith in the company and have ceased to pay attention to their \"coming soon\" titles. Still waiting on Moses and Aaron, and lest I be mistaken weren\'t they supposed to release Celine and Julie Go Boating?','b3d7eb1fd44a61ed1c6e3098092644de',0,'','dW4JsQka',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9260,1659,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1216253640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Still Life and Dong (Jia Zhang-ke / 2006)','Moses and Aaron is still listed on the website; no release date, though. \r\n\r\nCeline and Julie and Paris nous appartient are said to be scheduled for later \"this year.\" But we went through the same predicament back in \'05. BFI\'s editions, which have been available for nearly two years now, are quite fair.','84905292bf542409906dca5669211bf9',0,'','uVSZcrAP',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9261,1660,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186554120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes (2005) (Germany)','Review: \r\n\r\nAt once operatic and visceral, The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes is a dreamy revelation of intense desires and lush fantasies that recalls Jan Svankmajers early, fairytale horror stories rife with interpretive ingenuity. Aesthetically similar, the relatively distinctive visuals are densely shadowed in its approximation of pop and classical art, creating a shimmering phantasmagoric mirage bereft of the familiar pulse and lucid rationality of mere fables. The painterly pair of directors in the Quay brothers emerge here as designers first, and filmmakers second. \r\n\r\nDecidedly abbreviated in scale when compared to the duos vast reposits of imagination, they orchestrate a journey through a sleepy, enclosed dreamscape of fiercely intimidating idiosyncrasies that imbricates indulgence over implication. Impenetrable yet alluring, its gothic eccentricities seem to surface as a wondrous distraction from comprehending the genius beneath the eerie madness. In its most basic form, the film is an amplified variant of the treasured The Phantom of the Opera yarn, of its infernal desperation and its macabre imagery. While adopting a discernable structure, its sequencing is restless if resourceful and always interesting to look at. \r\n\r\nFantasy in film seems particularly difficult to pull off even if it is appreciated, as it requires a degree of supernatural awe that should feel sincere and effortless. The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes does not eke out that sentiment, in fact it seeks out to heighten the illusory process, that while luxurious becomes alienating and overbearing. The performances are wrangled in like puppets to its environment, permissive of wide-eyed expressiveness that mistakes staginess for emotions. \r\n\r\nThe narrative plants its own set of intrigues, most prominently the idea of reproduction between the fabled piano tuners within its diegesis that falls short of its ominous origins. However effective it might be as a manifestation of imaginative cognisance, the film ultimately undermines itself by becoming laborious and lethargic with a pace that is thoroughly enamoured with its artfulness. The Piano Tuner of Earthquake lends itself to a particular sort of sensibility, even if doesnt enrapture or convince others with its manqu artifice.','491601853dfb1222b8b3b4d43fedfc7f',0,'','0cEoFv1D',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9262,1660,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186903320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes (2005) (Germany)','Nice review. I\'ve only seen a couple of the shorts from the duo so far. This film definitely sounds interesting.','f05b52bcd78723995e26c84f4ee26a82',0,'','jku6Kye2',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9263,1660,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186978380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes (2005) (Germany)','It had a special mention at the Locarno Intl Film Festival.\r\nIt is now screening in Singapore ...\r\n\r\nBut I think the DVD is available too.\r\nDecision - to watch on a big screen or small screen?!','d6aff2b8ec0b35317e7d67686e906935',0,'','woc1gGev',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9264,1660,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187035860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'jcdavies','Re: The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes (2005) (Germany)','This is a marvellous film; the plot may be obscure or confusing at times (some would say pretentious)-though yes Phantom of the Opera is the obvious comparison- but the visual rewards are tremendous. \r\n\r\n\"intimidating idiosyncrasies that imbricates indulgence over implication\" eh?','fea7f1a28fab7c05681b6a496fb8c5f0',0,'','bDMkPc6G',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9265,1660,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187044860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes (2005) (Germany)','I caught it back in January and was fairly impressed with it. Interesting hearing the brothers speak about the Cremator and that film\'s potential influence. Very mechanically oriented and definitely sparse on dialog.','ea0ea06ca0e4d971d5fe793ae1699f74',0,'','SU4Q3RMf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9266,1660,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187046300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes (2005) (Germany)','I\'ve had the dvd for a while and must make every effort to watch it now. Should prove to be very interesting.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','336c4e549c1a711f5271dd316824eec4',0,'','VQLPgrcv',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9267,1660,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187066640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes (2005) (Germany)','ok, i will try to catch on the BIG screen ...','bd26ed5574b86d6111d0bc494506fb96',0,'','nlaqvjek',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9268,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160513160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'howardschumann(d)','Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','Seen at the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF)\r\nHANA (Hana yori mo naho) \r\n\r\nDirected by Hirokazu Koreeda (2006)\r\n\r\nHana Yori mo Naho is a Samurai film in which there are no flashing swords or bodies leaping over walls. Hirokazu Koreeda\'s (Maborosi, After Life) latest is a gentle comedy-drama that deconstructs the legend of the brave Samurai warrior and the Bushido code of seeking honor through revenge. The title of the film means flower, and Hana wants to change the symbol of the cherry blossom associated with the warrior spirit to one that represents a peaceful and nurturing life. Engendered by the earthy humor of the underclass, the film has many laughs, a wonderful soundtrack of joyous Renaissance music, and colorful characters brought to life by an excellent ensemble cast, yet it meanders and lacks a single crystallizing moment that brings its point home.\r\n\r\nSet in Edo (modern day Tokyo), Hana takes us back to the year 1702 where Soza (Okada Junichi), a young Samurai has come to the village to fulfill his father\'s dying wish and seek revenge against his killer, Jubei Kanazawa (Tadanobu Asano). Illuminating the conditions of the times, Soza lives in a dilapidated building that he shares with other impoverished residents: garbage collectors, fish peddlers, and debtors hiding out from collectors. Though he wants to restore honor to his family and collect the 100 Ryo reward from his clan to help his impoverished family, Soza lacks even the basic skills of a swordsman. \r\n\r\nThis becomes painfully evident when he is roughed up by Sodekichi (Ryo Kase), a local resident who resents the Samurai. A friend, Sadoshiro (Arata Furuta) also exploits the trusting Soza, claiming many times in restaurants that he has seen Kanazawa in order to have Soza buy his food. While seeking the man who killed his father, Soza establishes himself in the community, teaching the boys and girls in the village to read and write and finding much in common with Osae (Rie Miyazawa), a married woman who, with her eight-year old son, is waiting for husband to return. A satirical subplot questioning the legend of the 47 Ronin and the warrior spirit the story represents, complicates things as a group of samurai on their own mission of revenge, hide in the town disguised as professional people. \r\n\r\nThey distrust Soza, thinking that he is a spy and assign a fellow ronin to watch his every move. When the young Samurai finally crosses paths with his father\'s attacker, now a family man living with a widow and her child, he questions the Samurai code of honor and the ethics of revenge. Soza, sensitively portrayed by Okada - a band singer turned actor, is a good-hearted man who recognizes the need to better his society, yet Koreeda portrays him as a weakling and a coward, a role that undermines the film\'s anti-violence message. While Koreeda is to be congratulated for attempting a major stylistic departure and for condemning the endless cycle of violence, Hana falls short of his best efforts.\r\n\r\nGRADE: B','3668aee13775ac6ea379f83d9d36c12f',0,'','izLNj5X3',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9269,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160707140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','Sounds like a real departure for Koreeda. But his films always had some fantastic elements to them. And this one obviously also revolves about death - the right to kill. \r\nActually what piqued my interst the most was your mention of some joyous renaissance music. I\'m currently constantly listening to Monteverdi\'s L\'orfeo opera which I bought a couple of days ago. And I just love the \"dance\" music from the renaissance. \r\n\r\nCould you say more about the music used in Hana, Howard?','8d2bf9a9fd6155197f495737bc6ae5a5',0,'','D1tsVxko',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9270,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160811240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'howardschumann(d)','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','The music was the best thing in the film but I don\'t see any listing for it on IMdb. You can listen to it on the film\'s website:\r\n\r\nwww.kore-eda.com/hana','ec1cb9cc26357d3923e47e229ed50eef',0,'','RaFfWGpJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9271,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1161135960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','You can already get the Japanese DVD (with english subtitles) via YesAsia.\r\n\r\nus.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/code-j/section-videos/pid-1004480241/','e65938c275080b44b0558f30a281b043',0,'','Myrj9ovH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9272,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186978080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','I have bought it but I have not watched it.\r\nToo many films to watch, too little time.','755fd53702f13b3c8d0f8c32c6ad6dac',0,'','UH0uAQZF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9273,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187044860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','I didn\'t see this thread listed anywhere, so sorry for my double thread.','3d541f2b11c28525d70a66aa86dab741',0,'','aWDBsUSR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9274,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187044920,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','With a string of meaningful contemporary dramas Kore-Eda Hirokazu established himself as perhaps the finest Japanese director working today. Yet with Hana Yori Mo Naho he is entering into new territory, that of the traditional samurai film and historical drama. This might seem to take him out of place, but not long into the picture you realize this isn\'t a blood and guts decapitation fest but a meditation on the Japanese moral code and adapting to changing times. Nothing might be particularly new here, but to take a post modernist mentality, everything has already been done before. This in many ways continues the groundwork already laid out in After Life, Maborosi, and Nobody Knows (still haven\'t seen Distance). In addition it takes those themes somewhat further by letting us know that they\'ve been around for ages and probably aren\'t going to end.\r\n\r\nThe film is full of small touches to marvel at and observe. When three characters go to the temple to pray, they reveal what they prayed for. Of course the insight of a young boy reveals a poignant point \"How can one god answer so many prayers?\" Its mentioned in passing, but it brings up a good point. The nature of the afterlife which was so brilliantly covered in Kore-eda\'s earlier film is not so much the focus here, but something that people do think about because the picture is very much concerned with mortality. As one character who knows nothing of the subject exclaims near the end that for a samurai the most important thing is their death. For the particular samurai at the heart of our story, he quickly finds that life is far more worth living and that a never ending quest for vengeance is an empty pursuit. Dying a noble death is no more heroic than living a foolish life, and the 46 samurai who find they have nothing to do in a time of piece \"heroically\" commit hara-kiri at the film\'s end. It is a waste and thankfully Kore-eda spares us the bloodshed that so many other directors would find irresistible to leave out.\r\n\r\nThe irony of the film that so many of the male characters point out is that life isn\'t really worth living without wars, there\'s nothing to do. A foolish notion if ever there was one, and the village quickly finds that the smartest people living in it are the children, because they\'re the ones actually learning to read. The ignorant peasants in town dismiss the samurai\'s teaching because they still think its more important to know how to fight. They even take it upon themselves to teach the children sword skills, which none of them have, in fact they don\'t even have a sword. What does get revealed is that the avenging samurai who we have come to regard as a somewhat peaceful and endearing teacher bound by family duty to a task his heart isn\'t really in doesn\'t seem to have any samurai skills at all. Its a welcome relief from the typical \"super warrior\" samurai films we usually see, so much so that our initial reaction is to believe he\'s bluffing and will emerge a fierce warrior.\r\n\r\nHis bloodlust gets watered down a bit when he finds himself falling in love with a beautiful widow in the town. Her husband has died years ago from a lung disease but her son doesn\'t know this, and even makes the image of his father to match that of the man the samurai is looking to kill. It gets somewhat complicated, but we can tell instantly that these two are attracted to each other, but in a village this small every single person wants to know what\'s going on. In fact even the samurai\'s uncle who checks in on him believes the widow\'s kid to be his own, despite the fact that he\'s only been gone three years and the child is eight. In this world however nothing is quite as simple as two people who love each other being together. Along the way Kore-eda adds some dimensions to the film that make it appear a play within a play, but the fundamental issues remain the same. A welcome change to so many films of the genre, and one that when released here in the states (hopefully soon) will hopefully solidify his status as Japan\'s pre-eminent filmmaker.','d37d03b4983ac9a6cf0525f9d6505d57',0,'','i3eHah1Z',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9275,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1214373000,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','Hana just went straight-to-DVD stateside courtesy of Funimation Entertainment. Looking forward to watching it.','a342fe9063271c793db729a332ce2097',0,'','FKv5RBei',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9276,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1214381460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','I\'m still trying to get Distance, could have sworn Odd Obsession had a copy but I haven\'t seen it since.','b749eab6b16a6b9ba9d3b5652caac2cb',0,'','BnKg9C2a',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9277,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1214450400,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','If all else fails, you can consider the affordable (and English subtitled) HK DVD of the film. That\'s what I have. Distance probably resonates more deeply with me than any other Kore-eda film.','ccfb34b59569b351bcc46e3248967a92',0,'','fZhnNmWa',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9278,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1214512860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','Saw the Hana DVD at Best Buy yesterday and it is complete with zero special features just like Nobody Knows, damn shame.','167a1690c0b17c1b6546d162d1d0f06d',0,'','KymGxaPh',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9279,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1214726340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','I didn\'t particularly care for Nobody Knows but am interested in watching Hana which sounds like a mild-mannered samurai film in the vein of Yamanaka and, more recently, Yamada. \r\n\r\nMost U.S. DVDs of new foreign films don\'t have abundance of extra features, so I can\'t say I\'m surprised.','59a95ea724714bf06e1cd67d3f07c3cd',0,'','C8gALJec',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9280,1661,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1214727180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Hana by Hirokazu Koreeda','Yeah but these are bare bones almost to a fault like not even a trailer. I loved Nobody Knows, but I loved Hana as well and they\'re quite a bit different.','8ff8a0fa2558fa588855f5ff5e806dcb',0,'','sRWjLPDn',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9281,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1118427480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Korean Korner','Introduction and Index. \r\n\r\nSouth Korea has pretty much become the South East Asian equivaIent of Hollywood and indeed barring a few singularly minded directors, their output is fairly similar to the USA in terms of type and style of film. I believe this similarity and accessibility is why South Korean films are being distributed in the West on a far more regular basis than any other Asian country in the last few years. \r\n\r\nThe sudden spurt in growth has been aided by the government (particularly in terms of the quota system they had set up). Mainstream films bare the influence of Hollywood, Hong Kong, Japan and to a lesser extent mainland China but generally with a Korean perspective. \r\n\r\nHow will their film industry fare in its home and on the world stage now that the quota system is far more Hollywood film friendly? I guess we\'ll have to wait and see but at least it\'s very unlikely to affect the directors who truly have a unique style and vision. \r\n\r\nThis thread will be used to give a brief resume, comment or full review of each Korean film I\'ve seen, hopefully it\'ll be of interest to some.\r\n\r\nI\'m sure there\'s no need to add that the thread is open to everyone so please feel free to add your own comments, reviews, opinions and criticisms.\r\n\r\nSince I consider him to be a unique director, I have set up a seperate thread covering the films directed by Kim Ki-duk , please use the following link:\r\n\r\nThe Films of Kim Ki-duk\r\n\r\n\r\nFILM INDEX - In alphabetical order.\r\n\r\nAcacia - 2003 \r\n\r\nAd Lib Night - 2006 Thread started by justindeimen. \r\n\r\nAddicted - 2002\r\n\r\nAlmost Love - 2006 comments by justindeimen \r\n\r\nAPT (9:56) - 2006 comments by justindeimen \r\n\r\nArahan - 2004\r\n\r\nArdor - 2002\r\n\r\nArt Museum by the Zoo - 1998\r\n\r\nA Bittersweet Life - 2005 comments by hengcs.\r\n\r\nBloody Beach - 2000\r\n\r\nChristmas in August - 1998\r\n\r\nCrying Fist - 2005 comments by hengcs\r\n\r\nCut - 2004\r\n\r\nDoll Master - 2004\r\n\r\nFailan - 2001 comments by nate.\r\n\r\nFailan - 2001 further comment.\r\n\r\nH - 2002\r\n\r\nHappy End 1999\r\n\r\nHarmonium in my Memory - 1998\r\n\r\nHoliday in Seoul - 1997\r\n\r\nThe Host - 2006 Thread started by Howard Schumann\r\n\r\nThe Humanist - 2001\r\n\r\nIl Mare - 2000\r\n\r\nInterview - 2000\r\n\r\nInto the Mirror - 2003\r\n\r\nJoint Security Area - 2000\r\n\r\nKing And The Clown - 2005 comments by hengcs.\r\n\r\nLove Wind Love Song - 1999\r\n\r\nMarriage is a Crazy Thing - 2002\r\n\r\nMemento Mori, Whispering Corridors 2 - 1999\r\n\r\nMemories of Murder - 2003 Thread started by Howard Schumann\r\n\r\nA Moment To Remember - 2004 comments by hengcs.\r\n\r\nMy Sassy Girl - 2001\r\n\r\nNightmare - 2000\r\n\r\nOldboy - 2003\r\n\r\nOnce Upon a Time in High School - 2004\r\n\r\nOseam - 2003 \r\n\r\nPisces - 2000\r\n\r\nThe President\'s Last Bang - 2005 review by arsaib4.\r\n\r\nThe Quiet Family - 1998\r\n\r\nR-Point - 2004 \r\n\r\nRing Virus - 1999\r\n\r\nSave the Green Planet! - 2003 comments by arsaib4\r\n\r\nSex is Zero - 2002\r\n\r\nSpider Forest - 2004\r\n\r\nSympathy for Lady Vengeance - 2005\r\n\r\nSympathy for Mr Vengeance - 2002\r\n\r\nTell Me Something - 1999\r\n\r\nThis Charming Girl - 2004 comments by arsaib4\r\n\r\nThe Unforgiven - 2005 comments by hengcs\r\n\r\nUntold Scandal - 2003\r\n\r\nVirgin Stripped Bare by her Bachelors - 2000 Thread started by Howard Schumann \r\n\r\nWhispering Corridors - 1998\r\n\r\nWoman on the Beach - 2006 Thread started by Howard Schumann.\r\n\r\nWonderful Days - 2003\r\n\r\nYou Are My Sunshine - 2005 comments by justindeimen \r\n\r\n\r\nStill to come list.\r\n\r\nMany more to come.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','edd3f7c79f9285d5f7d97ba9da185b8a',0,'','ejdKVghS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9282,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1118427660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Oldboy (2003) \r\n\r\nDirected by Chan-wook Park \r\n\r\nStarring Min-sik Choi, Ji-tae Yu, Hye-jeong Kang \r\n\r\nIf one film has raised the general populaces awareness of South Korea in terms of film production then this has to be the one. \r\n\r\nOh Dae-Su is kidnapped and imprisoned for 15 years, why? On his release he is intent on finding out and exacting revenge! \r\n\r\nA paper thin plot with some stupendously memorable sequences guarantee this film a good reaction where ever it\'s screened. I have seen so many serious comments and reviews on Oldboy which in a way is more comical than the film. The film is based on a Japanese Manga of the same name by Minegishi Nobuaki and Tsuchiya Garon and it is a \"Black Comedy Revenge Drama\" see it, enjoy it, laugh with it (although an understanding of the Asian sense of humour is certainly beneficial) be stunned by the set pieces but please, please, please don\'t look for any serious messages, there aren\'t any! \r\n\r\nThe film asks you to make a few leaps of faith especially when the 2 main protagonists are supposed to be of a similar age and one looks old enough to be the others father, in actual fact the age difference between the actors is 14 years. \r\n\r\nKorean aspect - Well I don\'t know about Korean but eating a live squid/octopus? is definitely not something I\'d expect to see in my local restaurant. \r\n\r\nEssential cinema - No of course not but a spectacular slice of hokey entertainment. Highly recommended as a good night out at the cinema.\" \r\n\r\nCheers Trev. \r\n\r\nBBFC rating 18','21b2cc9072e43290f490a559a86c781a',0,'','25gfNjeo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9283,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1118427900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Boksuneun naui geot (2002) - Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance\r\n\r\nDirected by Chan-wook Park\r\n\r\nStarring Du-na Bae, Ha-kyun Shin, Kang-ho Song\r\n\r\nIn years to come when the fuss over \"Oldboy\" is but a distant memory, this film will still stand out. No outrageous set pieces, no ott displays of over-emotive acting and a story line that is believable, out of the 2 films this is by far the better.\r\n\r\nRyu who is deaf and dumb does everything he can to help save his sisters life, she is in desperate need of a kidney transplant. Unfortunately time and again everything he tries goes wrong until in the end he is seeking vengeance while others are seeking him for vengeance. Brutal but for the most part believable, the film illustrates that revenge isnt sweet and often leads to even greater levels of violence.\r\n\r\nAsian aspect Organs, kidneys etc are often stolen from the living and sold for large amounts to wealthy patients. The illegal trade in human organs is a serious problem in several Asian countries.\r\n\r\nRecommended viewing.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rating 18','dc97119a5fe511e0ad1ef46d8e622479',0,'','drTmUGC7',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9284,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1118851140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Gongdong gyeongbi guyeok JSA (2000) Joint Security Area \r\n\r\nDirected by Chan-wook Park \r\n\r\nStarring Yeong-ae Lee, Byung-hun Lee, Kang-ho Song \r\n\r\nA poignant film showing the futility of war and the stupidity of humans. \r\n\r\nFor years Koreans on both sides of the DMZ (De-Militarised Zone) have been raised to see the other side as enemies, the story covers an investigation into the killing of 2 border guards in North Korea. The problem is compounded because there are injured troops on each side of the DMZ as well and both their \r\naccounts of the incident are completely different. \r\n\r\nSwiss and Swedish investigators try and get to the truth of the matter but receive minimal help from those involved, we see the story unfold Rashomon style with variations of the truth, unfortunately the true story is more dangerous to \r\nthose directly involved than the cover stories theyve invented, will it ever be told? \r\n\r\nJSA is an impressive film which tries to see both sides as decent humans, which Im sure the majority are, it was a huge hit in South Korea and has hopefully opened the eyes of people to realise that North Koreans are the same as them, they are their kin and its only because of the super powers that the split occurred in the first place, Korea will hopefully be re-unified one day and then as in Germany the old views and stupidity will dissipate. \r\n\r\nRecommended viewing, well constructed and generally very good performances. \r\n\r\nThere is a classic Homer(ism) in the film where the Swedish investigator talks about the bridge at Panmunjeom in the DMZ, he comes out with a classic line something like, \"People who cross this bridge never return, that\'s why it\'s called The Bridge of No Return.\" And I thought Homer was still in Springfield! \r\n\r\nKorean aspect - something that pops it\'s head up in a number of Korean titles but without it this film wouldn\'t exist, the North/South split and the hopes of re-unification. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev. \r\n\r\nBBFC rating 15 \r\n\r\nedited by admin \r\na thread on JSA \r\nhttp://foreignfilms.yuku.com/topic/1896','ace794dac9475a0d74b25fb408204bc8',0,'','v1JEjD2A',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9285,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119023460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Three... Extremes (2004) Section 3 Cut\r\n\r\nDirected by Chan-wook Park\r\n\r\nStarring Byung-hun Lee, Won-hie Lim, Hye-jeong Kang\r\n\r\nA nice guy director finds his wife and himself terrorised by an extra whos worked in all his films but has gone slightly round the bend.\r\n\r\nNot much more I can say about the short film (around 45 mins) without giving spoilers, its mad, its graphically violent, and the ending makes no sense! \r\n\r\nFans of Chan-wook Parks Oldboy should love it, fans of his earlier films may find it slightly shallow.\r\n\r\nI found it entertaining but pretty much eye candy with no depth.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev. \r\n\r\nBBFC not rated almost definitely 18','2c40dd189ed7cea3dafcc0eac11835e9',0,'','D2QUtMNj',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9286,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119370440,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Sara','Re: Korean Korner','I just watched \"A Tale of Two Sisters.\" Wow - and weird - and eerie. Wonderful acting by the four characters. Great cinematography. Very atmospheric.\r\n\r\nBut I still don\'t quite understand it all. I think this film should be viewed at least twice to \"get it.\"\r\n\r\nAnyone else see it, and what did you think?\r\n\r\nSara','fdc1737ad345616ebbb5b5fff7e12e13',0,'','NSnvj2xs',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9287,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119381900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Sara','Re: Korean Korner','I just found out that there is a bonus disc for \"A Tale of Two Sisters\" with commentaries, deleted scenes, a making of featurette, and a few other goodies. I only rented the first disc and there were no commentaries or extras to help with understanding the film.\r\n\r\nHave any of you watched this bonus disc?\r\n\r\nThis film was quite dark and mysterious, and I want to get some more insight into it.\r\n\r\nSara','383f3d0994491734ddcb36278dd8eebf',0,'','nxpPWVqa',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9288,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119383160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Hi Sara, pity my old comments are still missing, A Tale of Two Sisters is intriguing, the basis of the story comes from an old Korean folktale although the film has only taken that as a starting point. It is a tricky film giving you the impression that your watching a variation on the Sixth Sense but that\'s just to lull you into a false sense of security, it isn\'t a horror despite the fact that it pretends to be one, it is a psychological drama with a little too much exposition at the end.\r\n\r\nAre there any particular points you would like to discuss? I don\'t have the 2 disc version but I\'ve seen the film a couple of times.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','2cc3310c4a8f4be6b4eefaaefbe62cf8',0,'','d8vrbHmj',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9289,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119543420,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','I\'m still hoping we may get the old data back, slim chance I know. If nothings happened by the end of June I\'ll start replacing the missing comments.\r\n\r\nStill it did teach me a valuable lesson, I save copies of almost everything now.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','255c4bdb9dd9923660d16403e864f500',0,'','WYGdpJEs',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9290,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1119900060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Gawi (2000) Nightmare\r\n\r\nDirected by Byeong-ki Ahn\r\n\r\nStarring Gyu-ri Kim, Ji-won Ha\r\n\r\nJust a quick note on this one, most horror films are average at best, most of them are pretty straightforward with surprise endings that dont surprise at all, now and again there may be an outstanding performance or something hits the right note and it is genuinely scary. \r\n\r\nNightmare has nothing outstanding about it, its a typical teen slasher movie. The performances are all pretty run of the mill, the twists dont surprise or shock and the film is just not scary. If youve seen a few horror films then this is totally missable and unmemorable.\r\n\r\nI cant recommend this film, its not badly made but its not good either, distinctly mediocre.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC not rated as yet, probably 15. \r\n\r\n__________________________________________________________________\r\n\r\nMight as well kill two birds with one stone.\r\n\r\nHaebyeoneuro gada (2000) Bloody Beach\r\n\r\nDirected by In Soo Kim\r\n\r\nWhereas Nightmare is average, Bloody Beach is abysmal. Yet another bunch of teens getting picked off one by one but this is far more likely to bore you to death.\r\n\r\nNot recommended at all. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC not rated as yet, probably 15.\r\n\r\nLuckily I was lent these 2 films, please don\'t waste your time or money on them.','a5d9694207c43ca5a69de38865c06311',0,'','atmgVbPD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9291,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1120419060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Holiday in Seoul (1997)\r\n\r\nDirected by Ui-seok Kim\r\n\r\nStarring Min-jong Kim, Hee-kyung Jin, Jin-shil Choi, Dong-Kun Jang\r\n\r\nImitation is the sincerest form of flattery. If that saying is true then Wong Kar Wai can consider himself well and truly flattered. If there was no Chungking Express there would be no Holiday in Seoul, certainly not as it is, the construction, editing, styling, photography, character narration, pacing, the whole shebang is a Korean version of Chungking Express.\r\n\r\nThat said, I found it to be a good film (once I could get over the similarities) the story revolves around two groups of two people, the first a bellboy who has an obsession with womens legs and falls for a leg model, problem is she has a boyfriend and a high flying career. The second half is centered around a taxi driver and a hotel phone operator, again he falls for her but she is already involved with a married man.\r\n\r\nThe biggest difference between Holiday in Seoul and Chungking Express is the overall feeling, Holiday in Seoul has an air of despair, inner city loneliness and sadness, you feel that the hotel phone operator in particular is in a severe state, clutching at straws and on the edge, another similarity with Chungking Express is the fact that she becomes an airline stewardess at the end of the film.\r\n\r\nThe acting is fine, the pacing is good (as it should be) and despite the obvious comparison its quite a decent film. \r\n\r\nThe title is actually wrong, it should be Holiday Inn Seoul, this is where two of the characters are situated and where a large amount of the film is set.\r\n\r\nRecommended, especially if you havent seen Chungking Express yet.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but probably 15.','068f387982d04e20d663110d5fbe51ea',0,'','MGnYEeDJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9292,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1120506960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Acacia (2003)\r\n\r\nDirected by Ki-Hyung Park\r\n\r\nStarring Hye-jin Shim, Jin-geun Kim, Oh-bin Mun, Na-yoon Jeong\r\n\r\nSlow paced horror about a middle aged couple who adopt a boy, the woman picks him because of his artistic talent, personally if I saw his pictures, Id send him for psychiatric treatment but thats me.\r\n\r\nThe boy Jin-Seung is always drawing trees, quite often with disturbing looking figures near them, it turns out he believes that his mother died and became a tree so if hes not drawing them, hes talking to or hugging them. \r\n\r\nAfter a little bust up one day, Jin-Seung runs out in a storm and disappears, the police are informed but then the adoptive father starts having recurring nightmares, the mother starts cracking up and the next door neighbours little girl starts talking to the Acacia tree in the garden, strange things also happen to the grandparents. \r\n\r\nWhat has become of Jin-Seung, what is the truth about the Acacia tree and why have the parents suddenly gone mad?\r\n\r\nIf you dont mind the pacing its not a bad film, far more thoughtful than the average horror and if anything, its the scenes that try to make this a horror film which stand out as weak, it didnt need them, this would have made a fine psychological thriller without them.\r\n\r\nThe gore hounds wont enjoy it, but those who like a bit more in the way of a cerebral thriller will at least get some entertainment value from it.\r\n\r\nIf you enjoyed A Tale of Two Sisters theres a good chance youll enjoy Acacia.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15','3aa09c66cfea7f30d0fa61699fc893c8',0,'','sbkA5a9W',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9293,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1120986300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'nate','Re: Korean Korner','Hi trev, hope you don\'t mind me adding a korean movie that I\'ve watched recently \r\n\r\nFailan (2001) \r\n\r\nIn this movie, Hong Kong star Cecilia Cheung plays a chinese woman named Failan who after the death of her parents comes to Korea to live with her relatives and make a living. Upon arriving, she learned that her relatives already moved to Canada. In order to stay in Korea and make a living, she agreed to a fake marriage to get a working permit bu is sent to a prostitute den. In her wit, she has convinced them that she is sick and unillegible to work and found a job at a laundromat run by an old woman. \r\n\r\nThe main focus of the film is on her legal husband named Kang-Jae (played by Choi Min-Shik, the star of Old Boy), a third rate gangster whose life has no direction. Later, he was informed that her wife, Failan whom he has never met is already dead. \r\n\r\nThis film re-examines the life of Kang-Jae as his life was changed by Failan\'s death. There are unexpected emotions and mixed feeling that slowly unfolds as the story progresses. Despite having never met, they end up giving each other the dignity and self-respect that their lives had been missing for so long that leads to a heart-breaking scene that displyas what it means or feel to be in love. \r\n\r\nThis film is one of my personal favorite and should be watched by anyone who searches for an original story and that has great acting from Choi Min-Shik. Although, the film also has flaws as the female character was not presented with the same depth as the way they presented Kang-Jae. I\'d still highly recommend this film. \r\n\r\nedited by admin \r\ntrevor\'s review \r\nhttp://foreignfilms.yuku.com/reply/3852/t/Korean-Korner.html#reply-3852','be1c72b59bc3abfcc38aedfa639ea212',0,'','am3c1iuH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9294,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1120994640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Failan is one I\'ll definitely look out for. Of course you can post your comments nate, everyone can. The more the merrier.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nJust finished watching Failan, agree with \"nate\'s\" comments, another good performance from Choi Min-sik and very different to his other major roles, \"Oldboy\" and \"Happy Ending\". Could have done with more of \"Failan\'s\" story though.','577e141b0d8b6fbe8655192f73efde6d',0,'','cvzTrj2b',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9295,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1121353500,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Yeonpung yeonga (1999) Love Wind Love Song\r\n\r\nDirected by Dae-yeong Park\r\n\r\nStarring Dong-Kun Jang, So-young Ko\r\n\r\nTae-hee lives and works in Seoul, he has recently split from his fianc and is looking after his ill father. Young-suh lives and works on Cheju as a tour guide ferrying people around the Island, neither are outwardly searching for love but both are in need of it.\r\n\r\nA gentle romance set on the beautiful Island of Cheju, Tae Hee takes a well deserved short break and he and Young-suh constantly bump into each other till he asks her to be his guide around the Island, a favour turns into friendship which gradually takes a romantic turn to love.\r\n\r\nThey plan to meet before he has to fly back to Seoul but when she gets there she finds hes already gone on an earlier flight, her friends and in particular her mother are quick to put Tae-hee down as someone just looking for a holiday fling but Young-suh doesnt give up hope, love has taken hold and she doesnt want to let it go.\r\n\r\nPure escapist romance in a beautiful setting, the film has some nice little touches such as Young-suhs English classes where the phrases she learns reflect the state of the romance and her feelings. So if you just want to chill out especially with your partner, this is an ideal film.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but suitable for any age group - U.','7285492907ecee88db393abffd78da2a',0,'','Xl60C8s9',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9296,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1121900580,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Arahan jangpung daejakjeon (2004) Arahan\r\n\r\nDirected by Seung-wan Ryoo\r\n\r\nStarring Seung-beom Ryu, So-yi Yoon\r\n\r\nArahan was everything I thought Kung Fu Hustle should have been, it is a martial arts comedy that takes a great many sly digs at its own genre. As with Kung Fu Hustle, there are also scenes that parody The Matrix but theyre not overdone. \r\n\r\nThe joy of this film is it is a joke that the audience is carried along with; there are the odd winks and nudges when things look as though theyre taking a turn for the serious to lighten things up though there are a couple of scenes of (to me) excessive violence which are there to supposedly give the central character motivation (imagination is never at the forefront with this type of film).\r\n\r\nThe story itself is nothing new, good guy turned bad, locked up for centuries, accidentally released by workmen, tries to take over the world. Good guys arent powerful enough to stop him, find the chosen one just in time, chosen one saves the day. Now how many films does that remind you of?\r\n\r\nThe bad guy (former good guy) is a strange one though, he looks like a Korean version of Jesus (at least how were used to seeing him) or a rock star. The action scenes both armed and unarmed are very well choreographed, some of it on a par with Hero and the like but the comedy accent which is quite subtle and genuinely funny (not forced) isnt forgotten and its what makes Arahan stand out in the crowd.\r\n\r\nSo given the choice of seeing Kung Fu Hustle or Arahan again, Arahan would win hands down.\r\n\r\nRecommended rental for light entertainment and a good laugh.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15 justified for the odd serious violent scenes.','03f0658e6bcb16be86c0bfa2cfcdf569',0,'','ML3SKXAT',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9297,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1123949220,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','\r\nCrying Fist (Jumeogi Unda) (2005) (Korea) \r\n\r\nDirector: Ryu Seung Wan \r\nCast: Choi Min Sik, Ryu Seung Beom \r\n\r\nIn Korea Daejong Film Awards (Grand Bell Awards) 2005, it won the Special Jury Award and Best Supporting Actress Award . \r\n\r\nNoteworthy, it was nominated for a record of 12 awards, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actresses, etc \r\n\r\nAlso, at Cannes Film Festival 2005, it received the FIPRESCI Award (for Directors\' Fortnight) \r\nsee \r\nwww.fipresci.com/festival…es_ndx.htm \r\n\r\nThe official website (in Korean) is here \r\nwww.fist2005.com/ \r\n\r\nThe story of two men is run in separate trajectories. In one, Gang Tae Shik used to be a Silver medalist in the Asian Games. He had however lost his glamour and was down and out, trying to earn money by being a human punching bag on the street. In another, Woo Sang Hwan, a delinquent was filled with rage, committing crimes Neither character knew the other, and expectedly, they had to meet eventually yup, you guess it they finally met at the boxing championship in the final scenes BUT who will win? Will Gang be advantaged because of his better skills or will he lose because age was catching up on him? Will Yoo win because he was young with powerful punches or will he lose because he lacked experience and was too fired up? Hiaks hiaks hiaks I shant give it away \r\n\r\nWhat is good \r\n-- Both characters/stories try to buy the audience in, such that at the end, you may have some struggle as to who you prefer winning both are really down and out both desperately need to win both need some hope in life so, who should you root for? \r\n* Hmmm as for me, I think the story about Gang Tae Shik is more compelling * \r\n-- Why is it such a box office hit in Korea? \r\nI speculate that older men will be able to identify with the life of Gang (about career, about family, about stress, etc) while younger men will also be able to identify with the life of Yoo (about life, about society, about rage and bitterness, etc) . Even women would be able to identify guys in those roles too \r\n-- In addition, I thought the harsh realism depicted in Gangs story was very well captured \r\n-- At the end, some issues that provoke thoughts are what is hope? What is a win? What is family? What is friendship? \r\n\r\nWhat may be problematic for some \r\n-- If at all, it will be the overdose of boxing films in this recent year \r\n-- Some may also try to dissect each episode/vignette and wonder if anything is novel. Well, stories about underdogs are too prevalent (esp. if you have watched too many movies hiaks hiaks ). \r\n* In my humble opinion, it is not about dissecting individual events, but the way the film pieces them together makes it worth watching! * \r\n-- Occasionally, one may find the film a bit too long \r\n\r\nConclusion: \r\n-- Although it is rather commercial (i.e., it will please mainstream audience), I still recommend the film! \r\n-- and do tell me who you rooted for \r\n;)\r\n\r\nTrivia: \r\nHey, the director Ryu Seung Wan and Ryu Seung Beom are real life brothers','e418c8301b77a625d0578fe87da66a90',0,'','FJ0hfs8t',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9298,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1124682000,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Jungdok (2002) Addicted\r\n\r\nDirected by Young-hoon Park\r\n\r\nStarring Byung-hun Lee, Mi-yeon Lee, Eol Lee\r\n\r\nYet another Asian film thats getting an American remake, this time though (unlike everything from Ringu through Oldboy to Shall we Dansu) there shouldnt be any reason to change the story in the slightest way. This film could easily translate to almost any culture as there is nothing specifically Asian about it.\r\n\r\nAs with Happy End you wont understand the meaning of the title till the end of the film but unlike that you wont have to think about how the title applies. Ho-jin and Dae-jin are brothers, theyre very close despite the fact that theyre very different from each other. Ho-jin, an artist is married to Eun-su, after three years they still send each other love letters and are very happy together. Dae-jin has just completed his national service is single and his addiction appears to be speed, he races cars for a living, they live in the same house and get along really well.\r\n\r\nTragedy strikes both at the same time though, Ho-jin is involved in a car crash that puts him in a coma and Dae-jin suffers a similar fate during a race. Dae-jin pulls out of his coma but starts acting strange, instead of showing interest in cars he suddenly starts creating artworks and furniture just as his brother used to, he claims to be his brother confusing poor Eun-su. The rest of the film is spent trying to work out the truth, has Dae-jin gone mad or is he genuinely possessed by his brothers soul?\r\n\r\nTowards the end I was wondering if this would get a Hollywood style finish, Im glad to say the saving grace of the film is that it didnt. It is fairly slow paced and a lot of the acting is performed through the eyes which works very well. Not a must see film by any means but a tragic romantic drama that is well constructed with good acting. Addicted is one film that is likely to appeal to both men and women equally which is a rarity these days.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15.','4892a1de3ea0d8ab4b03291ddb281d28',0,'','cMswWjTN',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9299,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1124733480,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Palwolui Christmas (199 Christmas in August\r\n\r\nDirected by Jin-ho Hur\r\n\r\nStarring Suk-kyu Han, Eun-ha Shim\r\n\r\nWhereas Ikiru deals with every stage of grief having been told your dying, Christmas in August bypasses the first stages and is already on terms with the final stage, acceptance.\r\n\r\nJung-won runs a small photo shop/studio and is terminally ill, we never find out what hes dying of but that doesnt really matter. Hes obviously been ill for a long time, long enough to have accepted the knowledge that he will soon be gone. He spends his days quietly running the photo shop; drinking with friends and sharing time with his immediate family, his father in particular.\r\n\r\nDar-im is a traffic warden (meter maid) who starts using Jung-wons studio to get pictures of traffic violations developed, within a short time you can feel a mutual attraction developing.\r\n\r\nThe film is not a romance, nor a lamentation on death, there is little if any sorrow or misery. It is a film about a man preparing, ensuring that life carries on after hes gone, making the most of the time left to be with the people he cares about and sharing what he knows can only be a brief friendship with Dar-im.\r\n\r\nMoving and deliberately underplayed acting, some clever cinematographic flourishes and no melodramatics, all in all a quiet but powerful film that may just bring a tear to your eye.\r\n\r\nA definite recommendation.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 12','229434c0e3b1e075e5898cd682ac2e2c',0,'','Bszcyf8W',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9300,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1124918460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Nae maeumui punggeum (1998 ) The Harmonium in My Memory \r\n\r\nDirected by Young-jae Lee\r\n\r\nStarring Do-yeon Jeon, Byung-hun Lee\r\n\r\nA light romantic drama set in the early 1960s, Hong-yeon an awkward 16-17 year old girl develops a crush on the new teacher at her school, the story is told from her perspective and often throughout the film we hear her thoughts. The teacher is young, fresh out of University and takes the eye of more than a few of the villagers, his eye though is taken by another new teacher at the school, slightly older and with a common love of American music. \r\n\r\nThis is the set up then for a touching drama where love is ignored or cannot be returned. The pupils are chaotic, education not being their top priority, the fact that most of their parents are illiterate doesnt help but the teacher manages to organise them even quicker than Arnie did in Kindergarten Cop. The village itself provides a good backdrop with a few little scenes to break away (though not detract) from the main story.\r\n\r\nA rich colour palette, good acting and a real sense of a living community all help to strengthen what could have been a sickly sweet romance. Do-yeon Jeon in particular is exceptional as Hong-yeon, completely convincing as a shy awkward girl, she was 25 at the time and her performance in this as opposed to her role in the following years Happy End just goes to show what a terrific adaptable actress she is.\r\n\r\nThe storyline might seem a little familiar to those who\'ve seen Zhang Yimous The Road Home but thats only the basic premise, its certainly not art-house but it is a well played and for the most part a well constructed film.\r\n\r\nOverall then well worth seeing especially if youre only used to the Hollywood style romantic dramas.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 12','0f5778eb8ecdbdbb0800eced983d5995',0,'','P7AGns8m',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9301,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1124918760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','To be added.','a5408fec10da93c428b178b2d136fc75',0,'','EXqn3U64',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9302,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1125161580,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Korean Korner','Where do you actually get to see all these Korean films. Are they regularly available on DVD? I didn`t find any info on Imdb...','512bc4c4501f2e1eeddc2c7f1721ba86',0,'','B8UgXs6y',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9303,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1125168300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','All the ones with BBFC ratings have been released in the UK on DVD, the others have been imported.\r\n\r\nI still have around 30 to go through including replacing all my lost reviews.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','f81fe7346da544e79fd3d4ca3dbbc32f',0,'','y07kzAR5',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9304,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1125265020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Oseam (2003) \r\n\r\nDirected by Baek-yeob Seong\r\n\r\nAnimation.\r\n\r\nA tearjerker but not the best.\r\n\r\nBased on a novel by Chae-bong Jeong, this is the second interpretation although Im unsure whether the first was animated or live action.\r\n\r\nA Buddhist fable telling the story of 5 year old Gilson and his older blind sister Gami, they wander looking for their mother and are taken care of by Buddhist monks. Gami knows the truth of their mothers disappearance but finds she cannot tell Gilson because of the pain it would bring.\r\n\r\nAt the monastery, Gilson continuously gets himself into trouble until he is taken under wing by one of the monks and they head off to a nearby mountain retreat to meditate and learn, things go fine until the monk is caught in a furious snowstorm as hes heading back from the local town market and Gilson is left at the retreat by himself.\r\n\r\nThis is a tear jerker but cannot compare with Grave of the Fireflies for unadulterated misery, one weak point though is the character animation, its not bad but it is pretty bland especially compared to the backgrounds, some of which are amazingly beautiful. The only songs are Korean folk songs sung by the brother and sister plus of course you have the Buddhist monks chanting\r\n\r\nAll in all a worthy peace of work, the story will touch you and the animation while not outstanding is fine. Recommended viewing for all ages except the very young.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but certainly no higher than PG. \r\n\r\nOnce again, thanks to hengcs for his initial (now lost) review and recommendation.','25ee3eeddb19aec4f89300475872bfca',0,'','JDBM6kZ2',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9305,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1125321060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Saekjeuk shigong (2002) Sex Is Zero\r\n\r\nDirected by Je-gyun Yun\r\n\r\nStarring Ji-won Ha, Chang Jung Lim, Jae-yeong Jin\r\n\r\nIf you enjoy gross out comedies such as American Pie or Road Trip and the many other films of this ilk all the way back to Porkeys then youll probably appreciate this.\r\n\r\nOne of several films that have earned the Copywood title, an extremely tacky infantile comedy with some untimely drama tagged onto it. If the idea of someone eating fried sperm thinking its egg white or of course the obligatory shots of girls working out and/or guys jerking off appeals to you then this will probably please you, although the sudden switch to more serious subjects like abortion etc may put you off. \r\n\r\nOne interesting fact though, there is a scene where a girl is drunk and wretches up, after being sick she french kisses a boy. In reality for this shot, the girl had drunk a large quantity of water and some packet noodles, she made herself vomit and then kissed the guy, all done in a single take, yuck!\r\n\r\nIn all honesty I personally don\'t like this form of cheap comedy where ever it\'s from so in my opinion I find it pretty sad that Korea is making this sort of film. It won\'t get any recommendation from me.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but probably 15','2095a27202619b9ae1f714649312b6e5',0,'','VCiPLMKN',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9306,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1125321360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Haepi-endeu (1999) Happy End\r\n\r\nDirected by Ji Woo Chung\r\n\r\nStarring Min-sik Choi, Do-yeon Jeon, Jin-mo Ju\r\n\r\nThis is one hell of a film, we start off with a couple meeting up for an extremely passionate session. Switch to a middle aged man sitting in a second hand book store thumbing through some romantic novels, the owner of the shop asks him if hes going to buy the book hes reading, the man Min-ki says no, because to him A real love story, its so sad it breaks your heart and the book wasnt good enough. \r\n\r\nWhy should I quote what Min-ki said? Because I think its one of the most important lines in the film, people comment that the film despite its title doesnt have a happy ending, Id say for Min-ki it has a literal (in every sense of the word) Happy End.\r\n\r\nIt turns out that the couple we first met are old lovers, the passion is red hot but the problem is, the woman Bo-ra is married to Min-ki and they have a baby daughter. Bo-ra works at a school for teaching English as does her lover. Min-ki a former banker is unemployed and gives the impression that hes more than happy spending his days in the book shop and his evenings watching soaps. Hes pretty useless around the house too leaving most of the work for his wife; he comes across as lazy and uncaring so its no real wonder that Bo-ra is having an affair.\r\n\r\nBut not everything is as it seems, the overall story has started before we join it and Min-ki is aware of more than he lets on and is not the tame cuckold we are lead to believe. Little fragments of evidence add up and another important change occurs in the bookshop as he switches from reading romance to mystery novels. \r\n\r\nBo-ra on the other hand is finding her lover a little too clingy despite the fact that she is incredibly possessive with him and wants a break to put some effort into her marriage. But its too late, the plans are in motion and a few more nudges are all Min-ki needs to finish it.\r\n\r\nSpoiler alert \r\n\r\nWhat follows is one of the most brutally realistic totally premeditated murder scenes I can remember seeing, again Ive read reviews and comments suggesting he lost it and flipped, no chance! Everything he does is very carefully planned, not only the murder but also the incrimination of his wifes lover as the killer, there are tears after but these are the tears of his sad, broken hearted Happy End not tears of remorse. He is left with the one thing he does care about, his daughter, the strange thing about that is the baby probably isn\'t even his! \r\n\r\nEnd of spoiler alert\r\n\r\nBrilliant acting from the two leads, a well thought out if somewhat controversial plot and definitely only suitable for adults. \r\n\r\nI thought it was excellent but give it a cautious recommendation.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but without a doubt an 18.','514934dfb5401f7c07806b30e038e319',0,'','cHpLixT3',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9307,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1125369660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Still to come.\r\n\r\nOasis\r\nTears Unfair Life\r\nMy Wife is a Gangster\r\nLast Present\r\nArdor\r\nNowhere to Hide\r\nIndian Summer\r\nWoman is the Future of Man\r\nVirgin Stripped Bare by her Bachelors\r\nMy Beautiful Girl Mari\r\nDitto\r\nThe Way Home\r\nNatural City\r\nTake Care of my Cat\r\nMago\r\nMusa the Warrior\r\nThe Quiet Family\r\nGojitmal\r\nA Tale of Two Sisters\r\nPhone\r\nThe Day the Pig Fell Down the Well\r\nPublic Enemy .and more.','2a0814d5b826e95024d6ecb5d7a96dbb',0,'','6RbrLlNd',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9308,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1125979380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','The Humanist (2001)\r\n\r\nDirected by Mu-yeong Lee\r\n\r\nStarring Jae-mo Ahn\r\n\r\nA black comedy/thriller that falls far too short on the humour (as dark as it is) and fails as a thriller. One of the problems is it tries to be too clever, another is the cast, not convincing in any way at all.\r\n\r\nThis film is about a spoiled brat who while driving with his two retarded friends accidentally kills a policeman. The policemans partner sees a way of making a quick buck out of the death and demands a huge amount of cash to keep quiet. The only way he can find to raise the cash is to kidnap his own father and use the ransom to pay off the cop.\r\n\r\nOf course, relying on his two buddies everything and anything that can go wrong does which leads to a lot of double crossing leaving nobody unscathed.\r\n\r\nThis type of film has been done far better with the likes of \"Shallow Grave\" and to be honest its one Ill never bother with again. Funnily this is one of two really bad Korean films where Chan-wook Park is listed among the writing credits, the other being A Bizarre Love Triangle.\r\n\r\nSo unfortunately one for the scrap heap, it didnt help that the transfer was absolutely diabolical. The subtitles hadnt even been checked, they contained innumerable translation faults some of which made no sense at all.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15\r\n\r\nAvailable on R1 ntsc and R2 Pal from Taiseng. \r\n\r\nAnd a brief note to Taiseng, start double checking the subtitles on your releases, they\'re not good enough and not just for this film.','e3dcb55507d4c4e9a48f7059285a1c51',0,'','ZFkbXH3u',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9309,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1126711620,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Geomi sup (2004) Spider Forest \r\n\r\nDirected by Il-gon Song\r\n\r\nStarring Woo-seong Kam, Jung Suh\r\n\r\nKang Min wakes up in a dark forest, bloody and physically battered with little if any recollection of how or why he is there, regaining some of his consciousness he makes his way through the trees and stumbles across a cabin. Once inside he discovers a mans corpse, copious amounts of blood splatter the floors and furniture, he also finds the near dead body of his girlfriend, again severely battered. As she dies in his arms she points, he follows the direction and sees what he believes is the killer, the chase begins until he is the one caught out and knocked out. \r\n\r\nAs he regains consciousness again, he sets off in pursuit of the murderer until he enters a tunnel and gets knocked over by a car. The story is then taken up as he wakes up in hospital having been comatose for a couple of weeks.\r\n\r\nWhat starts as a fairly straightforward murder mystery is raised a few notches by the unfolding story which heads off on tangents that would please fans of David Lynch, a twisted path with some ends that lead nowhere and others that take intricate twists in oblique directions. \r\n\r\nThe murder scene itself is graphic and the film is definitely made for a mature audience, the performances are convincing and because of the innumerable twists and turns, the film has good rewatch value. \r\n\r\nThere is a chapter relevant to the film\'s title Spider forest which heads off into the realms of folk tales but I havent been able to find anything else to corroborate this mythology.\r\n\r\nWell constructed, nicely paced but not for those who like to be spoon fed, this gets a thumbs up from me.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but definitely 18\r\n\r\nAvailable on Region 3 DVD.','880ce509a46290926c54a2bb1164a96a',0,'','wil0o84L',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9310,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1126728600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Sara','Re: Korean Korner','I just received 3-Iron! I hope it is as good as SFWS&S and The Isle...\r\n\r\nSara','3867708710a354819fde65a455a352ca',0,'','P7X0nLtp',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9311,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1126732920,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Sara I\'d be very surprised if you\'re dissapointed with it, it\'s still among the best films I\'ve seen this year.\r\n\r\nLet us know what you think of it.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','046ef58fa3f6d26c6fc9f5f940bea57b',0,'','3t0jZxo6',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9312,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1127272560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Siworae (2000) Il Mare\r\n\r\nDirected by Hyun-seung Lee\r\n\r\nStarring Jung-Jae Lee (Dogme # 7 Interview), Ji-hyun Jun (My Sassy Girl)\r\n\r\nA romantic drama based around a house (Il Mare), a dog (Cola), a beautiful girl (Kim Eun-ju), a young architect (Han Sung-hyun) and a magical time teleporting mailbox. This wasn\'t a huge commercial hit in South Korea but judging by the IMDB rating, it\'s a big hit with the people who have seen it. \r\n\r\nYet another Korean film getting a Hollywood make-over, will the remake hit the spot? Well have to wait and see, but I have my doubts.\r\n\r\nThe very amiable cast take us through an easy going storyline of two owners/tenants of a designer house, separated by time yet connected by a mailbox and their attachment to a scruffy little dog, Cola. They correspond via the mailbox, first in disbelief then with growing attachment as they realise the truth in their unique situation. Han Sung-hyun, with the benefit of being in the past is able to see Kim Eun-ju in her slightly younger years and can help her with some minor problems, although of course she is unaware of his help at the time. \r\n\r\nThey arrange to meet at a set time and date on a beautiful beach on Cheju Island (also featured in Love Wind Love Song) but for some reason Han Sung-hyun fails to turn up. The rest of the film revolves around why he couldn\'t make it until after some serious heartache and soul searching from Kim Eun-ju the tale reaches its climax and resolution. Will they ever meet? Can they ever meet? The only way youll find out is by watching the film!\r\n\r\nVery easy going, light, fluffy and definitely one for a romantic evening. It wont tax your brain but it may well entertain you. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but no more than a 12.\r\n\r\nRegion 3 ntsc dvd available from several retailers.\r\n\r\nRemake update. \r\n\r\nThe remake is now on general release starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock and retitled as The Lake House. I\'d love to know if anyone has seen it, especially if they have seen both films.','4f2998abcf38a9e84b3e566dc02690a6',0,'','SALyNJmj',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9313,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1127412120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Wonderful Days (2003) Sky Blue \r\n\r\nDirected by Moon-saeng Kim, Park Sunmin\r\n\r\nAnimation\r\n\r\nAn imitation anime from South Korea, the basic plot could have come from any one of dozens of Japanese anime films or series. Its the usual world in a mess, polluted, most of humanity wiped out with a small percentage of the survivors living it up while the rest are just fodder to provide the luxurious lifestyle of the few.\r\n\r\nOf course someone is forced to rise up and cause a revolt against the few leaving the world a better place for everyone, ridding the world of the pollution that was deemed necessary to provide the perfect lifestyle for the elite. Its all been done before and with a lot more originality and style, Miyazakis Nausica of the Valley of Wind is the perfect example of a story with a strong environmental message. Wonderful Days aspires to be a Korean Akira but is unfortunately more of a Spriggan, the cliched storyline is only one of its problems.\r\n\r\nGraphically, theres a mix of 2D animation for the characters in a 3D computer generated environment, I have yet to see an animation like this work. A lot of scale models were also used then ditgitised to fit in with the overall look but they stand out like a sore thumb. CG only works with 2D animation when it is used sparingly and sympathetically within the style of the animation.\r\n\r\nA plus point, a really nice sound track with a good variety of music that blends well together and within the context of the film.\r\n\r\nI cant recommend this because of the Clichd plot, the bizarre mix of animation styles and the fact that it is sheer plagiarism.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15.\r\n\r\nAvailable on region 3 ntsc dvd.','65e7b3d2fcbe35f4bd54dbfea15d142b',0,'','FeTSf7y4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9314,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1127717880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','A Bittersweet Life (Dalkomhan Insaeng) (2005) (Korea)\r\n\r\nDirector: Kim Ji Woon\r\nCast: Lee Byung Hun, Hwang Jung-min, Shin Min-a, Kim Roeha, Lee Kiyoung, Oh Dalsoo, Kim Young-chul\r\n\r\nThe official website is here ...\r\nwww.bitter-sweet.co.kr/ \r\n\r\nAnd the trailer (with English subtitles) can be found here ...\r\nsee\r\nwww.shaw.com.sg/upload/ab...etlife.asf\r\n\r\nThe film was invited to Cannes Film Festival 2005 ...\r\nsee\r\nwww.festival-cannes.fr/fi...ition=2005\r\n\r\nIn the recent Korean Grand Bell Awards , it won the Best Supporting Actor award ... but was nominated for many categories, incl. Best Film, Best Director and Best Actor ... \r\n\r\nWhile the overall story hinges on revenge, it can also claim to be a story about chaos (in life) (i.e., the unpredictability in life ... can one really control one\'s life?), or a story about triad, or a story about forbidden love, or a story of betrayal (or being loyal), or a story about admitting mistakes ...\r\n\r\nWhat is commendable?\r\n-- Well, the opening and ending have 2 rather philosophical tales ... which I like \r\n\r\nFor the opening,\r\nThe disciple saw the branches of the trees swaying and asked the Master, \"Is it the branches that is moving? or is it the wind that is moving?\"\r\nWithout even looking at where he is pointing, the master replied, \"That which is moving is your heart and mind!\"\r\n\r\nFor the ending,\r\nThe disciple awoke from his sleep crying profusely ... \r\nThe master asked, \"Did you have a nightmare?\"\r\nThe disciple replied, \"No ...\"\r\nThe master asked again, \"Then it has to be a very sad dream ...\"\r\nThe disciple replied again, \"No ...\"\r\nThe master wondered, \"Then what was the dream about?\"\r\nThe disciple answered, \"It was one of the best dreams I have had ...\"\r\nThe master was puzzled, \"Then why are you crying?\"\r\nThe disciple sobbed, \"Because it will never be realized ...\" \r\n\r\n-- The performance of Lee Byung Hun and Hwang Jung-min\r\n-- Quite \"stylish\" filming of violence\r\n\r\nWhat is problematic ...\r\n-- As it was originally meant to be a 2 hr 50 min (or so) film, the theatrical version (about 2 hrs) might lack some character development (or plot \"convincing\") ...\r\n-- So, unless you have come across such stories/behavior, or unless you have come across the way some triads act, or unless you understand how in some society, \"loyalty/truth\" (i.e., \"not lying\") is valued, or unless you realize that for many triads, falling in love with your chief\'s \"woman\" is doomed, you may not understand what underlies such cruelty, nasty treatment and ultimately, vengeance in the film... \r\n-- Hence, to some, the film really borders at violence for violence sake ...\r\n\r\nConclusion:\r\nWell, this commercial film will please audience who like to see violence that is filmed rather \"stylishly\" ... or those who like to see Lee Byung Hun and Hwang Jung-min …','9f1bb9d100d039dbb7125dee29880c9b',0,'','eNWuXTmH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9315,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1127883240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','A Moment To Remember (2004) (Korea) \r\n(I have edited my review slightly and provided the trailer) \r\n\r\nDirector: Lee Jae-han \r\nCast: Jeong Woo-seong, Son Ye-jin \r\n\r\nIn the recent Korea Grand Bell Awards , it garnered the Best Screenplay, Adaptation. \r\n\r\nSee trailer (in Korean) here … \r\nmms://mmc.daumcast.net/mmc/2/theater/trailers/T0001832.asf \r\n\r\nhee hee … given that I am an Asian, I have to admit it is a very Asian melodrama … (be it Chinese, Japanese, Korean, etc) \r\nSo, if you like Asian TV melodrama, you will like the movie … ;)\r\n\r\nWell, it starts off with the typical comedy/humor in courtship … and it ends with the typical tear jerking romance … \r\n\r\nSo, what makes it good? \r\n-- This scene makes a lot of audience tear … \r\ni.e., the gal looked at the guy very dearly in the eyes, but called her ex lover\'s name instead (due to loss in memory) and uttered she loved him (the new lover) … and he had to hold back his tears and pretend nothing was wrong (as if she had called him correctly, and still believing that she loved him instead of the ex lover …) and replied he loved her too … sob sob … \r\n-- I guess the cast helps to make it believable, and the movie does not waste too much time on any event or episode … which may drag the plot down … \r\n-- While the story is not exactly original or novel (at least in Asia), it does have some cryptic/philosophical lines … \r\ne.g., To forget easily is a gift … \r\ne.g., I met you when I was forgetful, and I left you when I became forgetful … \r\ne.g., Forgiveness is about giving your hate just a little room in your heart … \r\n-- I also like the line/question in the last scene … \r\ne.g., Is this heaven? (with dual meaning …) \r\n ;)  What may be weak? \r\n-- Since the last half of the movie is grounded on an important event … the audience have to buy what happens … that it is indeed plausible albeit uncommon … if you refuse to believe what happens … then everything is kind of ridiculous … \r\n-- Also, due to editing (as opposed to the director\'s cut), the audience may find a few events not convincing nor well explained … \r\n\r\nConclusion: \r\nIn essence, it is just a simple story that is well told … \r\nIf you like Asian TV melodrama, you will like the movie … \r\n;)','d560f4b39421af3724fe7bc06d84204c',0,'','cpG2Y5ld',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9316,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1128785040,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','R-Point (2004)\r\n\r\nDirected by Su-chang Kong\r\n\r\nStarring Woo-seong Kam\r\n\r\nA disappointing start to Tartans Asia extreme tour 2005 at least IMHO.\r\n\r\nThis is a weak story of a platoon of Korean soldiers during the Vietnam war who are sent to R-Point to try and find out what happened to a previous group. R-Point itself turns out to be a misty area of land with a warning message carved in stone. A long time before the area had been a lake but a massacre had taken place, the Chinese killed hundreds of Vietnamese and had discarded their bodies into the lake, they then filled in the lake and a large temple had been built atop it. The warning stated that anyone who entered the area and had shed blood would not leave there alive.\r\n\r\nThe problems with the film are down to several things, its supposed to be a War/Horror movie but is lacking in both areas. The actors for the most part were awful, these are experienced troops, most of them held the rank of Sergeant yet when anything slightly strange happened they ran around like a bunch of headless chickens (I was going to say like a group of schoolgirls but thats an insult to them). The editing was all to pot, leaving you wondering what the hell was going on as characters would just disappear and end up somewhere completely different without any sense or reasoning.\r\n\r\nThe actual setting for the film was terrific very photogenic, although Im sure some of it must have been filmed in the ruined temples in Cambodia that have appeared in several other films. The atmosphere was also good, dank, misty and mysterious, nicely done.\r\n\r\nIf it was meant as some sort of antiwar statement, it failed! As a horror movie, its too generic and fails. I did get the impression of a film trying to be too many different things instead of concentrating its strengths and pulling off something far more memorable, the one thing I will say, it lasted almost 2 hours and I cant say it bored me.\r\n\r\nIt did pique my interest finding out that South Korean troops fought in the Vietnam War, something I was unaware of, I just wonder if they were there under pressure from the US as has been the case for several countries with the war in Iraq. \r\n\r\nSo a mediocre start to this selection of films, not boring but so much weaker than I had expected.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15.','9d1265c2b83db4ba774210a38f5e325b',0,'','F8nBiaED',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9317,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1129143960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Telmisseomding (1999) Tell Me Something\r\n\r\nDirected by Yoon-Hyun Chang\r\n\r\nStarring Shim Eun-ha (Christmas in August, Art Museum by the Zoo), Han Suk-kyu (Christmas in August, Shiri)\r\n\r\nFilm number three in the Tartan Asia extreme tour 2005.\r\n\r\nMemories of Murder dealt with the stupidity and incompetence of the police in the mid eighties and was very loosely based on a real unsolved case. Judging by Tell Me Something the police arent as incompetent these days, theyre even worse. \r\n\r\nThe film starts with a gruesome dissection taking place, blood flows freely as the scalpel slices slowly and carefully through the skin (I queried the flow of blood but the answer was given later). Following this body parts start appearing around Seoul in black bags, all the parts are there but they dont connect, they have come from a few different people. Further mixtures of body parts are found in different locations until one is identified by his dental records.\r\n\r\nThe police manage to connect the head to a museum curator Chae Su-Yeon who manages to identify the (by now) three heads found, they are people who have been lovers in her past so the killer obviously has a connection, if not very unhealthy obsession with her. They pick up a male friend of hers and grill him, he definitely qualifies under unhealthy obsession and he becomes the main suspect until parts of his body turn up.\r\n\r\nDelving into Su-Yeons past, we discover she was abused by her father as a child, now the father has disappeared and again becomes chief suspect until, yes youve guessed it!\r\n\r\nAs for the police, theyre bloody clueless! The main one Detective Cho almost gets run over twice yet fails to get any details of the car, other things give away his total stupidity (or should that be gullibility) but to explain them would give away too much of the story.\r\n\r\nOther reviews have compared the film to Se7en and Silence of the Lambs but to be honest, each of those were far stronger and more competent, this is more in the league of Basic Instinct but without the sex, it is superior to the similar German film Tattoo though.\r\n\r\nTo be fair the actors are good (although I preferred the two main stars in another joint vehicle Christmas in August) there are some very good set pieces, like the multiple pile up caused by a bag of body parts. Also because of its construction it almost demands a second viewing.\r\n\r\nNot bad but there are far better ones out there, worth a rental if you like this kind of film.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 18. \r\n\r\n------------------------------------------------------------\r\n\r\nDvd update.\r\n\r\nR2 dvd available from Tartan video.\r\n\r\nGood picture transfer.\r\nExcellent audio - stereo, 5.1 and stunning DTS.\r\nExtras - short making of concentrating on the body pieces, trailer and music video.\r\n\r\nSecond viewing, although it has risen slightly in my estimation, it doesn\'t match up to \"Memories of Murder\" but is certainly better than \"H\".\r\n\r\nAt least South Korea can be glad that they have had more films concerning serial killers than they\'ve actually had serial killers.','2ac53e2cabbbc5199da61ee111b8efa4',0,'','KNrt6TVa',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9318,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130089320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Unregistered(d)','Re: Korean Korner','eric, thanks for list of films - I\'ve bought 7 so far!!!','e397ccba74cc5bc5f48d8c0b6fdef82d',0,'','nufYvUlJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9319,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130089560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Unregistered(d)','Re: Korean Korner','trevor 826, Hi, I saw my first Korean film \"Memories of Murder\" and was hooked since!!\r\nYou list has saved me blundering through titles on HK & Korean dvd web sites buying hit and miss movies. A BIG thank you!!','5300a538d7419b73a94403a1596b7b2c',0,'','KM91NyVc',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9320,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130094240,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Thank\'s renard70, I\'m glad you enjoyed \"Memories of Murder\", it\'s a very well constructed and gripping film.\r\n\r\nHopefully you\'ll be able to recommend some films as well.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','5cb7265f5f536c9d728b2244d7e6eb46',0,'','EsjRPZve',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9321,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130196180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Interview (2000) Dogme # 7 - Interview\r\n\r\nDirected by Hyuk Byun\r\n\r\nStarring Shim Eun-ha (Christmas in August), Lee Jung-Jae (Il Mare)\r\n\r\nThis film is a simple tale but is told in a disjointed fractured manner, this method is entirely suitable and draws you in giving the feeling that you are involved. \r\n\r\nA director (Lee Jung-Jae) is filming interviews with a lot of different people discussing their first love. While filming he becomes entranced with one of the interviewees, just a normal girl who works in a beauty parlour but there is something quite enigmatic about her.\r\n\r\nThe girl (Shim Eun-ha) captivates his attention as she tells him about her job, her life and the love of her life who is in the army. The fragmentation occurs as we find out that a lot of what the girl is telling him is not quite the truth, slowly the pain and heartache of her past are revealed in a way that makes us, the audience not merely witnesses or voyeurs but participants in the story.\r\n\r\nShim Eun-has character is an enigma, we know as much about the truth of her story as the director does, given little snatches until the final denouement. This is clever film making which gives the impression at first of being nothing more than a bit of arty experimentation, get past that and you have a story that cant fail to draw you in and make you empathise with the central characters.\r\n\r\nShim Eun-ha is captivating and proves what a good actress she is, unfortunately this appears to be the last film shes worked on, unless anyone knows different!\r\n\r\nHighly recommended as an alternative form of romantic drama.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but probably 12.\r\n\r\nRegion 3 ntsc dvd available from several retailers.','0899f20dc3ee8642d7b5fb10ca245948',0,'','WMY2438Z',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9322,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130274060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Unregistered(d)','Re: Korean Korner','Hi, Saw \"3 Iron\" a fortnight ago. Kim Ki Duk didn\'t let me down - great film. The male lead shows more emotion with his face & body than most actors do with a good script. Loved it. I\'ve now bought the dvd for re viewing.\r\n\r\nBy the way does any one know when his other film \"The Bow\" will be released?\r\n\r\nA moan - I went through all the rigmarole of registering for world cinema and it seems to accept my password etc but my postings are still labelled unregistered member?? Any clues anyone??','8691ca1235075ad55ea19d844dc721ff',0,'','i4fPoygS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9323,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130291820,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Thanks for your comments on 3-Iron, sorry to hear about your problems re membership, I\'ll see if admin can help out.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','67f7882408d7141ea91fe75748bf1800',0,'','HvkPERaM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9324,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130305680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','\r\nQuote renard70, \"A moan - I went through all the rigmarole of registering for world cinema and it seems to accept my password etc but my postings are still labelled unregistered member?? Any clues anyone??\"\r\n\r\nHi renard,\r\ni am not sure if this is the problem but i suspect so. try the following ...\r\nbefore you even post anything, do make sure you go to the main page of the forum and LOGIN (the link is on top). After that, then you go to the respective forums to post. Whenever you post, they should NOT be asking for your userid and password again.\r\nrgds','a53dd75c91c4b007e2df608e9581ac33',0,'','s1UyeC50',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9325,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130362080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Unregistered(d)','Re: Korean Korner','Hello Hengcs, Thanks for helpful. I did try what you suggested - result ? It now says my password is invalid!!\r\n\r\nStrangely, after trying this I went to Korean Corner to make this reply and it asks for my user name & p/word. The answer might be to re register all over again this week end!!','d942bed8e33c36574e450bba03368ecd',0,'','n4vj1Rh6',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9326,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130362980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Unregistered(d)','Re: Korean Korner','Trevor, how long did it take you to take in and remember all the Korean stars names!! It\'s not all bad news, I am recognising certain faces in different movies.\r\n\r\nAnother Public Enemy? I enjoyed it. Having said that the main lead has been promoted from unshaven, ill dressed tough morose detective, to tough morose prosecutor with suit. Really,its Public Enemy remade\r\nThis film reminded me of the phrase that doctors use for repeat prescriptions - \"mixture as before!\r\n\r\nPS:\r\nI can see the link for replying to posts but where is the link to start new topic? Or do I need opticians appointment?','5e1de1971740a1af035d8e345fc710ce',0,'','sY1fbpEH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9327,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130370120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Like cinema anywhere in the world you tend to remember familiar faces and then it\'s easy enough to put names to them although in all honesty I find it easier if they\'re attractive or are very distinctive. \r\n\r\nThe start new topic link is at the top of the page on the right.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nPS. Nice to see someone else posting from the UK, where are you exactly?','de83dc4282fc4d10ad631d92fba17af5',0,'','uAkbXs0L',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9328,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130387760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','Quote renard,\"Hello Hengcs, Thanks for helpful. I did try what you suggested - result ? It now says my password is invalid!!Strangely, after trying this I went to Korean Corner to make this reply and it asks for my user name & p/word. The answer might be to re register all over again this week end!!\"\r\n\r\nHi renard,\r\nwhenever you have to key in your userid or password for individual posting, ezboard will indicate \"unregistered\". However, if you go to the top to log in, you can post a few posts without keying in the userid and password. also, they will track that you have read certain folders, so that you will know what are new.','b39fb045e7f34720a6cb736cf949885b',0,'','NVckvhxF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9329,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130426160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','\r\nQuote renard,\"By the way does any one know when his other film \"The Bow\" will be released?\"\r\n\r\nIf you are ok with Region 3 DVD, it is already available.','570b866632da40d78256b7ac7de25a7b',0,'','B2GrgWxL',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9330,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130528580,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Unregistered(d)','Re: Korean Korner','Looks like i need that eye test! \r\n\r\nI live in Manchester, city with reputation for rain & top quality football!!','6adba127a5a2523688f98883663a12d6',0,'','DVjgNHYd',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9331,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1130870280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Mulgogijari (2000) Pisces\r\n\r\nDirected by Hyung-tae Kim\r\n\r\nStarring Mi-yeon Lee (Addicted), Woo-jae Choi (Phone), Ji-hye Yun (Whispering Corridors)\r\n\r\nWhere do you draw the line between love and obsession?\r\n\r\nAe-ryun (Mi-yeon Lee} owns a video store called Sad Movie, she loves French films and has a thing about Kurt Cobain. Dong-suk (Woo-jae Choi) is a singer/songwriter and shares the same tastes, they form a friendship based on their mutual interests. \r\n\r\nDong-suk is also a bit of a depressive, he cant seem to get a recording contract no matter how hard he tries and ends up getting drunk and reeling off quotes about how You can get anything you want in life as long as you want it enough. This is the sort of talk that Ae-ryun needs to hear, she knows that he has a long time girlfriend but tries to make a move on him, although flattered he tells her that all he wants is friendship, nothing more. \r\n\r\nWhat started off with the air of a gentle romance turns into something a little darker, Ae-ryuns nature takes over, shes taken his drunken comments to heart and is determined to win him over. Feelings that appeared to be genuine and warm become obsessive and deceitful causing friction in Dong-suks relationship.\r\n\r\nThe plot takes an even bigger twist towards the end, which makes you re-evaluate everything thats gone before adding an extra dimension to the story.\r\n\r\nThis film belongs to Mi-yeon Lee, an excellent performance as a woman obsessed, the other actors are fine but she dominates the film. This is no bunny boiler and at the end you feel sorry for all the central characters that things work out the way they do. \r\n\r\nI have to mention Woo-jae Chois singing, its dire! No wonder he cant get a recording contract in the film, others may disagree but I didnt like his singing voice or his music.\r\n\r\nOverall then, not an essential film by any means but a very different treatment in comparison to the way Hollywood has presented this type of story of obsessive love.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but Id put it as probably a 15.\r\n\r\nRegion 3 dvd available from several suppliers','69c97fcbc95fd338ec92b4faf35bb51a',0,'','DyqMEXBW',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9332,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1131368700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','I\'ve finally seen The Isle! Wow. That\'s really all I can say. I never felt so many emotions while watching a film. \r\n\r\nAnd I also saw Bin-jip. Just wondering why it\'s 3-iron...\r\n\r\nanyway, I\'m recognizing a pattern, from the 3 Kim Ki-duk films I\'ve watched (Samaria aside from the other two I mentioned). I\'ve just noticed that his films are really quiet and at the end, there\'s a poetic commentary by the director. Wow, he\'s just so great. I\'m looking for his other films but can\'t seem to find them here...\r\n\r\nWill watch JSA later too. I\'m so excited! =D','8c3dfd0c3b92d25e7e8b5b00737b2258',0,'','RgLBMiPE',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9333,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1131378420,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Hi smurfrevolt, I did make a seperate thread for Kim Ki-duk\'s films, hengcs has already linked for 3-Iron and a link exists on the first post of this thread to his films. \r\n\r\nSounds like you had the same sort of reaction to The Isle as I did, have you tried \"Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter... and Spring\" yet?\r\n\r\nCheers Trev','de5c5485e83c5363af4dde4c935c7ad8',0,'','15ujGz7W',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9334,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1131379620,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','I think I\'ll ask my friend in Korea to get it for me. How would you rate the Kim Ki-duk films you\'ve watched, I mean, which is the best, in order? Thanks. Just want to know. =D I\'ve only watched three, so I might not be the best judge of this.','c96fc338cf7c72d2e6d94637091cc4c5',0,'','9hGNR8ew',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9335,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1131390780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','No scores or grades but in order of preference.\r\n\r\n1. The Isle, affected me like no other film I can remember.\r\n\r\n2. 3-Iron, still one the best films I\'ve seen this year.\r\n\r\n3. Samaritan Girl, constructed out of three very different passages.\r\n\r\n4. Spring, Summer etc, life in a nutshell.\r\n\r\n5. Birdcage Inn, early film, strangely beautiful, well worth seeing.\r\n\r\n6. Bad Guy, a tough film to watch still way above average.\r\n\r\n7. Real Fiction, more an experiment than a film, interesting.\r\n\r\nI haven\'t had the chance to watch Address Unknown yet so can\'t give an opinion.\r\n\r\nAll the films listed are far above the average in terms of cinema and carry his own unique style.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','8c5e62b642dc19e9bbdbd537f35e5774',0,'','yPCFSKUt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9336,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1132302900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','I have watched the top three films you\'ve listed and this is how I\'d rate them:\r\n\r\n1. The Isle\r\n2. Samaria\r\n3. Bin-jip\r\n\r\nI\'m still looking for the others... =D','2d0562c3e6447b2e9e283329d166ece3',0,'','z6vqdUsF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9337,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1132719360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Following nates comments, here are my thoughts on Failan (2001)\r\n\r\nDirected by Hae-sung Song\r\n\r\nStarring Min-sik Choi (Oldboy, Happy End), Cecilia Cheung (One Night in Mongkok)\r\n\r\nKang-jae (Min-sik Choi) is a lowlife thug of a gangster, despised by everyone including himself. His life is going nowhere and even the other gang members treat him as a joke, a has-been, garbage and pitiful.\r\n\r\nFailan (Cecilia Cheung) is a young pretty woman who has lost all her relatives apart from a couple who live in Korea. Its only on arriving there that she discovers theyve moved to Canada, leaving her stranded, nowhere to go and trying to find some way of staying in Korea.\r\n\r\nKang-jae marries Failan (for a price) but they never actually meet. She is taken to a town and put to work in a laundry, the only time that Kang jae hears about his wife, is when he is informed of her death, this is where the story really begins.\r\n\r\nFlashbacks show Failans life after the marriage, letters she has written to him (which he reads for the first time while travelling to her funeral) connect the past with the present. Something, a tiny little thing, affects Kang-jae. A tiny comment slowly but surely causes a genuine sense of feeling, of guilt, of affection and loss.\r\n\r\nThis man who the day before couldnt sink any lower finds something, a kindness from a stranger so touching that it literally tears his whole being apart.\r\n\r\nAs he goes through the inevitable ID and funeral service you can sense the change, this woman has given him something that nobody else can or has ever wanted to, a reason to live, a missed opportunity but a chance to gain some self respect.\r\n\r\nWhere will this lead him, how will the other gangsters especially his boss (who wants him to take the rap for a murder) react?\r\n\r\nA well constructed melodrama with very good performances from the leads, definitely recommended and quite an affecting/effective film.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but at least 15 (swearing and violence)\r\n\r\nRegion 3 ntsc dvd available from several suppliers.','64ef547f7fcb1dab314cbc699e7524f5',0,'','fY1t2dCB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9338,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1133042700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'Unregistered(d)','Re: Korean Korner','Just like to say that I\'ve watched \"Failan\" & \"address Unknown\" this week end. Suffice to say that \"Failan\" had me weeping buckets . A thoroughly enjoyable, emotional film. Superb acting. I\'ll have to ask the expert, Trevor, if the male lead playing the washed up gangster is the same actor who starred in \" Old Boy\"?\r\n\r\nFor me \"Address Unknown\" rates above \" The Isle\" in Kim Ki Duk movie work. I love the way he brings the seperate strands of the story together','3fa21a1173a1d43c77d6b895d0f397c5',0,'','EfiB5Fmz',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9339,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1133047740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Yep, Choi Min-sik was the principal actor in both films, he\'s also the lead in Happy End, a very different restrained performance, probably his scariest performance. He\'s also the lead in Chihwaseon as the artist Jang Seung-up, again a different performance, a brilliant artist but a drunken womaniser with more than a touch of arrogance. \r\n\r\nAlthough I\'ve had Address Unknown for a while, I haven\'t had (or made) the time to watch it yet.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','b3917ed0e414ef7e94946d9079995911',0,'','Bq6Evy3U',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9340,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1133064360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Yeogo goedam (199 Whispering Corridors\r\n\r\nDirected by Ki-Hyung Park (Acacia)\r\n\r\nStarring Roe-ha Kim(Memories of Murder), Mi-yeon Lee(Addicted), Jin-hie Park(Love Wind Love Song), Ji-hye Yun(Pisces)\r\n\r\nA traditional style ghost story, slow paced and lacking the flash editing and effects that are overused in most modern horror films. Notable for a couple of reasons, as a platform for launching the careers of a fair few of its cast and for helping to create a better, healthier environment for learning within the Korean education system.\r\n\r\nStrange things are happening at an all girl school, a teacher is found hanged (assumed to be suicide) while an ex pupil returns to take up teaching. There seems to be a cycle of odd events recurring every three years since the sad death in the school of a student who had been ostracised from her peers and friends. \r\n\r\nDeath appears to be marking the teachers who take pleasure in bullying and brutally stamping their authority on the pupils, who or what is causing the deaths and why? Meanwhile the strict educational system is having a traumatic effect on the current pupils, one in particular has been pushed far too close to the edge.\r\n\r\nThe film ran into trouble by depicting the cruelty and punishments meted out by some teachers but it also did some good by bringing this taboo subject into the open and this alone makes this film stand out from the crowd. \r\n\r\nThe acting isn\'t outstanding but it is certainly adequate, the film\'s success relies on the plot rather than shock value. In essence, an old-fashioned ghost story with the disclosure of the real horrors that were happening in Korean schools.\r\n\r\nNot essential but certainly educational/controversial as well as entertaining.\r\n\r\nMore likely to remain a cult favourite than to achieve the success of a film like \"Oldboy\"\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15\r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Tartan, R3 ntsc also available.','4a10c3c7477e455dc9e7054b6fc7fcb3',0,'','7VDmgiUe',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9341,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1133589960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Yeogo goedam II (1999) Memento Mori, Whispering Corridors 2 \r\n\r\nDirected by Tae-Yong Kim, Kyu-Dong Min\r\n\r\nStarring Min-sun Kim, Yeh-jin Park, Young-jin Lee\r\n\r\nThe only connection between this film and the original Whispering Corridors is the fact that it is also set in an all girls school, and helped launch a few acting careers, this is not a sequel in any way.\r\n\r\nIncorrectly listed as a horror, this is instead a tragic romance. Two students, Hyo-shin and Shi-eun have been ostracised due to their relationship, which has gone beyond friendship. The problems for Hyo-shin run deeper as she has also been having an affair with one of the male teachers and has fallen pregnant. The two girls have kept a diary between themselves sharing thoughts and details of their love, Min-ah, another student finds the diary one-day and starts delving into its secrets.\r\n\r\nFrom there we flashback to various points in the relationship, there are no scenes of a sexual nature though its clear that they are a couple. We bounce between the flashbacks and the present taking in Hyo-shin\'s suicide with all the speculation and rumour attached. Min-ah appears to become possessed or haunted by Hyo-shins spirit until it takes control of the whole school finally gaining release once retribution has been sought.\r\n\r\nDespite the poor subtitling on the dvd I have, the story is easy enough to follow, with the release of the region 2 Pal dvd soon it should flow even better. Quite a decent film, very different from the first in the series and the favourite for many people. No CGI, very little in the way of special effects and turning its focus away from the standards of discipline in Korean schools to the topics of friendship, love and tolerance.\r\n\r\nCertainly worth a rental, entertaining though not in the slightest bit scary.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 12.\r\n\r\nRegion 2 Pal dvd available soon from Tartan, region 3 ntsc dvd available from several retailers including a 6 disc version','9adf01d63e9f451d8208f193fdd66951',0,'','duhH7L4M',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9342,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1134539460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Art Museum by the Zoo (199 Misulgwan Yup Dongmulwon\r\n\r\nDirected by Jeong-hyang Lee (The Way Home)\r\n\r\nStarring Shim Eun-ha (Christmas in August), Lee Sung-jae (Public Enemy)\r\n\r\nA light romantic drama that could easily have been named The Misfits or any one of a dozen other names.\r\n\r\nOn taking some leave from the army, Chul-su (Lee Sung-jae) returns to the apartment he shares with Da-Hye only to find she left the apartment and him 2 months earlier for another man. Instead he finds a new tenant, Chun-Hi (Shim Eun-ha), who works filming weddings and is an aspiring screenwriter. They are completely different from each other; she is messy and disorganised, he is loud, gruff but very tidy, at first they do nothing but argue and irritate each other but over the long haul its a case of opposites attracting as he helps her (or should that be hinders) in completing a screenplay for a competition. \r\n\r\nThe original concept involves two storylines running consecutively, the couple forced into sharing the apartment and the couple in the screenplay. The imaginary or screenplay sequences are filmed in delicate but muted tones, at times just sepia and generally with a soft focus lens but there are times when paths cross between reality and fiction which all adds to the atmosphere.\r\n\r\nA nice genial undemanding romantic drama with a touch of all to human comedy as this odd couple gradually fall for each other. \r\n\r\nThe soundtrack is an eclectic mix of saxophone dominated easy going jazz and 90s pop, I cant say I was particularly struck by it but it did tie in nicely with the story. Confession time; I really didn\'t like the soundtrack but I know from other reviews that I\'m in a minority on this one, I don\'t like lazy jazz style music and I can\'t stand \"The Beautiful South\" so even though it all fits within the context of the story, I found it annoying.\r\n\r\nIf theres one genre that typifies Korean films over the last 10 years or so its the romantic drama for 20+s, They generally appear to bring a unique idea to each one and this is a more than decent example.\r\n\r\nLike many others, its not essential viewing but its certainly a pleasurable way to spend an evening, recommended for those who enjoy quirky and original romances.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but probably PG.\r\n\r\nRegion 3 ntsc dvd available from EDKO.','9f412e59b1169017647656ea61189ec0',0,'','uaA4H0gL',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9343,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1134672540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Untold Scandal (2003) Scandal - Joseon namnyeo sangyeoljisa\r\n\r\nDirected by Lee Je-yong\r\n\r\nStarring Lee Mi-suk (3-Iron), Jeon Do-yeon (Happy End), Bae Yong-jun\r\n\r\nIf youve seen any of the numerous versions of Dangerous Liaisons or Cruel Intentions youll know the basic story which has transferred well in this Korean period/costume drama. If not, its quite simply about a wager, a wager that has deep repercussions for those involved.\r\n\r\nThis version brings full period details and archaic upper class manners to life. It\'s smart, sexy (not explicit) and only suffers from being a little too long. Set in late 18th Century Korea with the sudden rise of the new (to Korea) religion Christianity which plays its part in the plot and provides the intended victim of the wager, class and social structure/distinction are also very important elements to this tale. \r\n\r\nAn effective romantic tragedy, slightly humorous, very decadent and gorgeous to look at, a feast for the eyes and senses as European Baroque music plays in the background surprisingly fitting in perfectly within the context of the film and also connecting it to the original novel.\r\n\r\nAs you would expect the standard of the performances from the whole cast is excellent though Bae Yong-jun and the ever impressive Jeon Do-yeon deserve special mention for their roles.\r\n\r\nA definite recommendation, you wont find too much originality but you will find it entertaining. Unlike Japan, Korean period dramas are pretty thin on the ground and this is a welcome addition.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 18.\r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Soda Pictures. R1 ntsc available from Kino. Various R3 and R0 dvds also available from several suppliers.','485182f0055a529d24ab3f5895f7a4cc',0,'','Q7ksCLtb',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9344,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1136203200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'chard09','Re: Korean Korner','Hi trevor. Untold Scandal is a very popular film here among students. Sadly I haven\'t seen it yet. I\'ll find time.','e20a61ebdb08cfe12de96e7233fa0ec6',0,'','fQWs0qJa',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9345,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1137094260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','H (2002)\r\n\r\nDirected by Jong-hyuk Lee\r\n\r\nStarring Jung-ah Yum (A Tale of Two Sisters, Tell Me Something), Ji-ru Sung (Memories of Murder, Public Enemy}, Jin-hee Ji\r\n\r\nH is one of those films that Ive read so many poor comments about that I watched it with very low expectations. That was probably for the best because if I hadnt had low expectations Id probably just be carping on about how much it blatantly rips from Se7en and Silence of the Lambs. Despite the obvious connections it does have enough originality to hold it together and provide a decent serial murder mystery with some original ideas. \r\n\r\nA series of murders are taking place in Seoul, all the victims are women and are copycats of a serial killer (Shin Hyun) who has been behind bars for several months after giving himself up. Of course the police question the interned murderer, this is where it heads into Silence of the Lambs territory as he appears to be in control of the inquisitors, diverting the questioning and giving off an air of enigmatic superiority (certainly no Hannibal Lecter though) and a series of cryptic clues.\r\n\r\nAs for the elements that tie it in with Se7en, each victim has been chosen carefully and with reason, each has been killed in a way that (to the killer) suits their supposed crime, the crime scenes are also quite grotesque which is also similar to Se7en. \r\n\r\nTo find the killer the police must delve deeper and deeper into the mind and crimes of Shin Hyun, he is extremely misogynistic and further into the film the police discover why. There is a twist at the end that reveals the H of the title and although its fairly easy to work out what it means beforehand, the finale is still quite surprising.\r\n\r\nAlthough you may think the fact that all the victims being women and the misogynism of the original killer make this sound like a very masculine film youd be wrong. The two emotionally strongest and certainly most intelligent people are women, one a police detective whos boyfriend (also a detective) died during the search for the original killer and the psychiatrist who sees the confidentiality of her patients as more important than the murder of someone she doesnt know.\r\n\r\nQuite slow paced with a central character (detective) who is a little too melodramatic for his own good, this film wont change your life and does not compare with Memories of Murder or Tell Me Something (which I feel I may have underrated) but its not that bad either. If you do see it, expect the worst and you will find a fairly decent film, believe me, Ive seen far, far worse than H.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev \r\n\r\nBBFC rated 18 \r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Tartan Video','780bdf20892e1bc967e45f526701a246',0,'','XM3SDt9p',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9346,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1138554660,1,0,1,1,1,1,'nate','Re: Korean Korner','Been a long time since I haven\'t posted to the board, been busy with alot of things but I always find time to watched some movies but always forgot to post my thoughts in the forum.\r\n\r\nI have the same thought with hengcs with the movie A Bittersweet Life and the philosophy it presented in the opening and at the end credit gave a lasting moment for me and made me think.\r\n\r\n3-Iron is one of my favorite movie, and one of the three movies (the godfather, when I realised corleone\'s first wife is going to die; the second is citizen kane) that has emotionally moved me to react like it\'s really happening (the end scene when the woman says \"i love you\").\r\n\r\nKim Ki-Duk\'s early film is much the same in theme with his works today but there are more dialogue and more scene explaining the story as evident in his movie such as Wild Animals and Bidcage Inn.\r\n\r\nKim Ki-Duk\'s movie I\'ve seen:\r\n\r\n1. 3-Iron\r\n2. The Bow\r\n3. Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter....And Spring\r\n4. The Coast Guard\r\n5. Samaria\r\n6. Bad Guy\r\n7. Birdcage Inn\r\n8. Wild Animals','2c0a2b63a787aa3e3cf121a0be6e5175',0,'','mQt1okld',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9347,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1138630560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Hi nate, you\'ve seen a few I haven\'t including The Bow, I guess you must have enjoyed it. You haven\'t seen The Isle yet, I wonder how you would rate it compared to his others.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','4902e0da8010c369a0b273b78bbe9837',0,'','p9DqgsL4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9348,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1138644300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'nate','Re: Korean Korner','Hi trev,\r\n\r\nI missed The Isle when it was shown in Cinemanila last year, hope someone could lend me a copy since I\'m very anxious to see that film.\r\n\r\nThe Bow for me seems to fall flat against Kim Ki-Duk\'s other film, for me the lack of dialogue The Bow didn\'t worked out as much of his other films do but I would still recommend it, the visuals are breath-taking and will instill into your mind like a vivid dream.','11f68aa1f9a3a2509474a61f4083c423',0,'','98cM2GKf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9349,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1138823280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Thank\'s hengcs and nate for the comments on \"A Bittersweet Life\" I was surprised to find out that it has a general theatrical release in the UK and will try and catch it. It\'s only a shame that once again only the films that feature a lot of violence get this type of release but I guess it\'s the only type that\'s likely to draw the public.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','5c97fec3725c872e5f2972a6a4a0e64c',0,'','patgdfCX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9350,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1139341260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Since hengcs has already commented on the film and there\'s little if any difference of opinion, I\'ll just add a few notes.\r\n\r\nAs with Japanese film Ping Pong you follow two competitors knowing that they are bound to clash in the finale, the difference is with Ping Pong, there is really only one competitor to back, only one who hit rock bottom to rise from the ashes also the stories of both players are very much connected. Crying Fist does a good job of giving you two fighters whose stories never intersect until the final, both hit lows in very different ways and both manage to drag themselves out of the gutter whether as a matter of pride or redemption.\r\n\r\nIt\'s unusual to have two underdogs as central characters but the time is split well covering both stories, shifting from one to the other with ease.\r\n\r\nGood editing, grainy camerwork, convincing acting (could Choi Min-sik have had such a great career in Hollywood? With his looks and stature, I don\'t think so!) a mainstream plot but one that is well executed.\r\n\r\nAll in all an entertaining film that\'s certainly worth a rental especially if you\'re into boxing films.\r\n\r\nOne thing that I found very different especially from Hollywood films of a similar nature (Rocky is the prime example of course) was the soundtrack which was at times bizarre but at least, thankfully it didn\'t contain any banal rock anthems like \"Eye of the Tiger\".\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15.\r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Premier Asia.','e9876c6cb40200a4b6b3f88877ce93d3',0,'','zuo9Zlvr',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9351,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1140004380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','Finally saw Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance. did anyone review this film before?','0fd1635676098b126eaa7e0ae537b649',0,'','CgPDB593',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9352,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1140033300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','smurfrevolt, I have written brief comments, Sympathy for Mr Vengeance. I\'d like to hear your thoughts on the film though.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','8fe9f5f7b17d9e0f7cea25bb5fa4f18a',0,'','59WjoxlJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9353,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1140424680,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','I enjoyed this film a lot and i loved details like when the deaf guy and his girlfriend are conversing thru sign language, there is a mirror in front of them, and for some reason, I like the character of the deaf guy--he\'s just so endearing...I\'m not too sure if that sort of kidney \"trade\" really goes on in korea, but it could be true...\r\n\r\nHowever, it does have Old Boy to live up to. I don\'t think it quite makes it, but it is a great film nonetheless. Although I have a bit of a problem with the ending when he\'s also (oooops, spoiler) ...anyway, i guess it\'s a commentary on the absurdity of it all.','6554583973cda35eaa594998d63ad1a9',0,'','dmNCSEjY',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9354,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1140446520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Hi smurfrevolt, thanks for your comments. Re, organ theft/trade, there was a large gang busted in Korea in January this year, the leader was a pastor News link. (go fig!).\r\n\r\nI prefer the down to earth approach of SfMV to the almost cartoonish Oldboy but if I just want pure entertainment, I\'d pick Oldboy.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','e0acdaa32321d2791248bae93900bd6c',0,'','5QgiYAe4',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9355,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1141365960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Sympathy for Lady Vengeance (2005) Chinjeolhan geumjassi\r\n\r\nDirected by Park Chan-wook (Oldboy, JSA)\r\n\r\nStarring Lee Yeong-ae (JSA) Choi Min-sik (Oldboy, Crying Fist)\r\n\r\nThe third and obviously final instalment in Park Chan-wooks revenge trilogy feels like a weak pastiche of the first two plus, for me there also appeared to be a strong Tarantino/ Kill Bill influence.\r\n\r\nThe basic plot revolves around a 19 year old girl, Lee Geum-ja (Lee Yeong-ae) being wrongly convicted and imprisoned (due to her confession) for the kidnapping and murder of a five year old boy. Giving the impression \r\nof being a model prisoner she bides her time till her release when she can take revenge on the real abductor and killer.\r\n\r\nAfter a beautiful intro sequence with baroque music, we are treated to bits and pieces of the story as we jump back and forth in time. Each time a new relevant character is introduced we are treated to a flashback as to how they first met, (usually in prison) and find out what their part in the act of revenge will be. \r\n\r\nChoi Min-sik plays the real killer (Mr Baek) who used Geum-jas baby daughter as collateral threatening to kill the child if she does not confess to the crimes. After finding evidence of even more crimes, Geum-ja and her former arresting officer confine Mr Baek in an old barracks and take part along with others in exacting their revenge.\r\n\r\nThe first 90 minutes cover Geum-jas release with continuous flashbacks to her arrest and time in prison, the tone is light, like a cross between Oldboy and Kill Bill but with very little violence and a much lighter sense of humour, (the long imprisonment also attaches it to Oldboy). \r\n\r\nDuring the last 20 minutes or so there is a dramatic mood change, the story which started with a bungled kidnapping of a child (as with Sympathy for Mr Vengeance) leads into far deeper darker territory as the act of revenge takes place in an extremely brutal manner.\r\n\r\nThe film is a mash of styles, incohesive and disparate in tone, a case of style over substance leading to a very unbalanced story. Definitely the weakest of the trilogy, it is well worth seeing if you enjoyed the previous two but it doesn\'t have the strong albeit bleak storyline of the first or the outrageous set pieces and black humour of the second.\r\n\r\nLoved the music, the sly digs at organised religion and the central performances, disliked the sudden change of intensity and atmosphere (just as I didnt with Ab-normal Beauty).\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 18\r\n\r\nRegion 3 ntsc dvds available from several suppliers. R2 Pal dvd will be released by Tartan later this year.\r\n\r\n------------------------------------------------------------\r\n\r\nR2 dvd update. \r\n\r\nTartan Video\'s release maintains their high standard of picture quality, sound options include stereo, dolby 5.1 and an excellent DTS track.\r\n\r\nRather sparse on the extras though, a theatrical trailer and interview with Park Chan-wook plus product trailers.\r\n\r\nI\'ll write more on the interview once I\'ve seen it.','1820d258151ad096a171d13dc55f2889',0,'','wHepRXGt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9356,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1141379340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Korean Korner','Sorry to hear that; I was looking forward to it. (Just kiddin\' .) Many Kim Ki-duk films came out in the U.S. last year. It seems like this year belongs to Hong Sang-soo -- an extremely talented filmmaker who\'s yet to reach his full potential. It is encouraging to see other filmmakers, who may not have won a grand jury prize at Cannes, getting a bit more exposure.','7adfac0f3cc1fb33ac2660758ed47db6',0,'','8pfgHL3Z',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9357,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1141397280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Re: Lady Vengeance, I associated the dramatic mood change of the film with a similar change in Ab-normal Beauty and thinking about it, both changes happened with the discovery of snuff style video tapes, talk about plagiarism.\r\n\r\nI really believe Park Chan-wook wants to become the Korean Tarantino, apart from the use of flashbacks in a very similar way to Kill Bill he\'s obviously plundered the pulp B Movie stylings of \"Female Prison\" dramas and \"snuff movies\".\r\n\r\nThe film has a good rating on IMDB and I think the majority of \"Oldboy\" fans in particular will be more than happy with it.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nP.S I have two Hong Sang-soo reviews to redo and one I should have done early this year, I\'ll try and sort them out asap.','f941dd2c8d9e1ab0368c9e46823d7aad',0,'','6u0mQXHP',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9358,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1141862340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Into the Mirror (2003) Geoul sokeuro\r\n\r\nDirected by Seong-ho Kim\r\n\r\nStarring Yu Ji-tae (Ditto), Kim Myeong-min\r\n\r\nOriginal concept, adequate cast, high production values, yawn absolutely soulless, uninspiring, bland and boring.\r\n\r\nI saw this two years ago and thought it was pretty weak, since I wanted to cover a batch of Asian horror films (and because it was very cheap) I thought Id refresh my memory and rented the dvd. It wasnt as bad as I remembered, it was worse! Very slack pacing, terrible script and hackneyed performances dont exactly add up to a winner and it drags on and on and on, it may have been bearable at 90 minutes but it literally crawls towards the 2 hour mark.\r\n\r\nThe basics: Strange deaths are occurring in a new shopping centre that has replaced one which was destroyed by fire. The security chief is an ex cop who left the force after causing the death of his partner; he teams up with the police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic losses. Could they be suicides? Is there a serial killer? Perhaps it has something to do with the ghost that people have mentioned seeing late at night? I wonder if youll care by the end of the film, I didnt.\r\n\r\nThe shopping centre makes for a marvellous setting, mirrors everywhere and even where there are no mirrors you get reflections from puddles or windows, there is some clever camera work so at times youre unsure as to whether what you are seeing is real or a mirror image/reflection or illusion. I think a lot of the problems with the film boil down to the director coming up with a great idea but forgetting to make it interesting, engaging or well structured. \r\n\r\nAfter all the hoo-ha its just another hackneyed female ghost seeking retribution against those that lead to her death. It doesnt finish there though, a final attempt is made to provide an original twist, unfortunately this only helps to make it feel like a story from Tales of the Unexpected, definitely too little too late. \r\n\r\nIf mirrors scare you then who knows, this film may work for you. Personally, the scariest thing Ive seen in a mirror is my own reflection, especially first thing in the morning.\r\n\r\nSo in my opinion its one to avoid, despite the original concepts, it is a snore-fest, the plot is too drawn out and the characters are instantly forgettable (not good for what is, essentially a character driven movie).\r\n\r\nSomething that is strange for such a mediocre film, the dvd is outstanding in terms of extras, apart from a commentary you also have the whole film in storyboards and countless other extras, in fact well over 5 hours worth. A great example of what can be done with dvds, just a shame the film doesnt really benefit from or deserve it. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev \r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15\r\n\r\nR2 dvd available from Tartan Video. R3 ntsc dvd available from several suppliers.','ae47000b219cee1c4994e9c79a7ee402',0,'','lWtocwKg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9359,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1141877820,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Ring Virus (1999) Ring\r\n\r\nDirected by Dong-bin Kim\r\n\r\nStarring Eun-Kyung Shin (Uzumaki, My Wife Is a Gangster), Bae Du-na (Take Care of My Cat, Sympathy for Mr Vengeance)\r\n\r\nA Korean adaptation of Ringu, if youve seen that or the U.S. remake youll know this is a modern Urban legend concerning a video that brings death a week after its been viewed. The story follows the same well-trodden path as the original and is apparently more faithful to the source novel, despite this it does feel lacking in comparison.\r\n\r\nWith Ringu you get a real sense of danger and urgency, trails are followed and clues uncovered in a way that feels right, you know why the reporter and her ex husband go to the Island or visit a particular location. These points and the fact that the actors give strong performances make Ringu stand tall in the mire of recent Asian horror films.\r\n\r\nUnfortunately none of these are attributable to Ring Virus, why they go where they do or their actions when they get there, the sense of any real urgency, these are missing along with convincing performances and a real tangible sense of dread and danger. I have no problem with films that are slow paced but it doesnt really fit within this story, everyone seems laid back and theres no real spark between the reporter and her ex or even between mother and child.\r\n\r\nI was expecting a pretty bad adaptation but it was better than expected and without the original may have appeared to be a reasonably good and thoughtful film, unfortunately (at least in my opinion) it feels second rate or even amateurish compared to Ringu despite or maybe because it stayed truer to its source. The musical score for Ring Virus was interesting, probably the best feature of the film but the camerawork, acting and editing were very average. \r\n\r\nA further negative point is the dvd, Tai-seng again with a very poor transfer both visually and aurally, they really need to improve their standards to stay in the game, especially since theyre competing with companies like Tartan and Optimum, both of whom have produced stunning transfers and extras even if the films have been fairly average.\r\n\r\nOnly recommended for a variation on a theme, one for the Ring nut or completist.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15\r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Tai-seng. R1 ntsc dvd also available from Tai-seng but appears to be an improvement over the R2 release.','a9f5f801da556dba3390be0fc1224abd',0,'','MNw85HWk',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9360,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1142036640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Doll Master (2004) Inhyeongsa \r\n\r\nDirected by Yong-ki Jeong\r\n\r\nStarring Yu-mi Kim (Phone), Ji-young Ok (Take Care of My Cat)\r\n\r\nRight I wont waste my time or yours. Very typical horror plot, people invited to mansion, creepy place, one by one people die. Usually one or two survive, end of story.\r\n\r\nNow if you want a horror film this fails miserably, predictable, corny and dumbfoundedly stupid!\r\n\r\nThe only way youll get a kick out of this is if youre a fan or collector of Asian Ball Joint Dolls, apparently there are vast numbers of people all over the world who trade and collect them through the internet. If you are one of these or someone who gets genuinely freaked out by dolls or puppets then you will love this film. If not then dont waste your time.\r\n\r\nThe dvd extras will also please fans of Asian BJDs (as they are known in fan circles), apart from a 45 minute making of feature there are interviews with the doll designers who are just as nuts as the fans. They explain how to make the most of your dolls as well as showing the craftsmanship that goes into them.\r\n\r\nGreat for BJD fans, not so good for everyone else.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15\r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Optimum. R3 ntsc available from several suppliers.','20f830f81efb46fe51bcfc9177501ed9',0,'','yFNeWdqA',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9361,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144841580,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','Hi trevor, I also saw Sympathy for Lady Vengeance about a month or so ago. I don\'t know if it\'s just me, but if Old Boy, or the other one, Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance weren\'t made, I\'d have to say, I like this one best. Maybe because there\'s a female, and it\'s very stylish--very nice to look at--from that red/zebra room, and geum-ja\'s polka dot dress. Seems like Park Chan-wook was just enjoying himself with this one. He\'s not as serious as he was in the other two films...Also, I find this film less contrived than Old Boy, and more enjoyable than Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance. I guess I\'m just sick of brutality...and I\'m mellowing out... =D','c895117fff1d1ad5130256491318acd3',0,'','ynZvpdt0',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9362,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1144852080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Thanks smurfrevolt, I did enjoy the stylish nature and lightness of the majority of the film. it was only when it came to the actual scenes of revenge that I went off it, the change in tone was too much. I\'d assume that you saw the full version? Rather than the shortened \"Westernised\" release.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','a76ae92f281c9c43179a77a028253318',0,'','vezNxDqG',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9363,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1145424540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','I agree with you that the pacing of the film seemed to change towards the end. But I was willing to forgive that for the overall effect of the film...','fb35f65d71c9c8435fb0acfa7bad118e',0,'','lo06mzPB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9364,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1146574020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','As the dvd for Sympathy for Lady Vengeance is released here next week I\'ll be able to see how I feel after a second viewing. At least it should have decent extras.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','0d15ec5bfe54f676189d85bfd341312a',0,'','GhfEnVe8',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9365,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1146653700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Once Upon a Time in High School aka Spirit of Jeet Keun Do (2004) Maljukgeori Janhoksa\r\n\r\nDirected by Ha Yu (Marriage Is a Crazy Thing)\r\n\r\nStarring Kwone Sang-woo (Volcano High), Lee Jeong-jin (Bloody Beach)\r\n\r\nAnother film that along with Whispering Corridors highlights the grim side of the Korean education system up until recent times. Whereas Whispering Corridors wrapped it up in a traditional style ghost story, this film includes scenes of almost gross out comedy and seriously o.t.t. martial arts action.\r\n\r\nSet in the 70s with strict codes of almost militaristic discipline in schools, a transfer student manages to muddle his way through becoming best friends with another boy due to a shared passion for Bruce Lee films. He falls in love though this is unrequited, falls out with his best friend and goes through a series of (at times cliched) episodes that seem very familiar and universal.\r\n\r\nPersonally I felt the story and accurate portrayal of 70s Korea and of the schools in particular were enough to make this film successful. By adding the teen style comedy and martial arts they have no doubt widened the prospective audience but in my opinion it does cheapen and weaken the overall impact.\r\n\r\nAnother niggle, I think you can sometimes get away with passing off someone in their early twenties as a school senior, (even easier when they are female) but several of the main characters were in their mid to late twenties, and it showed. \r\n\r\nNone of these problems will stop the film being a major hit but Id imagine that because the fighting etc are over the top that most audiences outside of Korea will see the whole film as a kind of fantasy whereas in fact key elements of the strict discipline and physical bullying from teachers were the norm.\r\n\r\nThe song that plays over the end credits manages to say more about the damage inflicted by this form of educational system than the film manages in its almost 2 hour running time. \r\n\r\nSorry if the comments seem perfunctory, but theres nothing I can add except that this film has taken a troubling issue and turned it into an entertaining fantasy.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev. \r\n\r\nR2 Pal dvd available from Premier Asia, extras include interviews with the secondary characters, these are at times genuinely funny and info on the martial arts sequences.\r\n\r\nR3 ntsc also available in several forms.','66ecb3b31c905ec796fb5c6d240f3beb',0,'','oWjFCRue',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9366,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1148110020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'smurfrevolt','Re: Korean Korner','I have seen Once Upon a Time in High School as well...I enjoyed it, although, if your looking for a more serious film, maybe the comedy parts might be out of place, but then, Koreans seem like people who can laugh at themselves...but I totally agree with you about the actors; they looked too old to be in high school...','e118bb9155a39ffae4b618a8c62e47a3',0,'','oFN3erKQ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9367,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1149271140,1,0,1,1,1,1,'nate','Re: Korean Korner','Hi trev,\r\n\r\nYou mentioned that you have 2 Ho Sang-soo movies to review, I\'m anxious to read what you think about his movies.\r\n\r\nI\'ve only seen A Virgin Stripped Bare By Her Bachelors but I have a copy of his other films, The Day a Pig Fell into the Well, Power of the Kangwong Province and Turning Gate\r\n\r\nHaven\'t got the time to see it','8c6b42df22999ad84f23a77c976284cb',0,'','Gq6xHXDw',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9368,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1149421980,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Hi nate.\r\n\r\nYes I do have a couple of Ho Sang-soo movies including A Virgin Stripped Bare By Her Bachelors, The Day a Pig Fell into the Well and Woman is the Future of Man. I\'ll try and crack on and re-do my comments soon. Maybe you could write some notes on the others.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','c4f14b82ec261ee4572642441b07e89a',0,'','8vKDpESt',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9369,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1149596700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Re: Once Upon a Time in High School.\r\n\r\nSorry for the delay in answering your post smurfrevolt, I did expect a more serious piece despite the rather silly title simply because I\'d read some of the comments on IMDB. It is good that Koreans can look back and make light of what must have been a harsh time and of course the film needed to be financially viable but I guess I had my expectations set a little too high. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','11fb60346956cf94f79cf9306de37059',0,'','d5QZE2Gg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9370,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1151639640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','My Sassy Girl (2001) Yeopgijeogin geunyeo\r\n\r\nDirected by Kwak Jae-young (The Classic)\r\n\r\nStarring Jun Ji-hyun (Il Mare), Cha Tae-hyun (Windstruck)\r\n\r\nThe basis of this film apparently originated through a series of letters posted on the internet concerning the writer and his rather bizarre girlfriend. Whatever the case, this is a fun movie, distinctly Korean with a charming cast and plenty of humour (though a little is a bit low-brow).\r\n\r\nThe relationship starts when Gyun-woo prevents an attractive but very drunk girl from being hit by a train, they both take the same train and somehow he ends up having to take care of her after she has been sick. From then on they appear to be constantly fated or maybe doomed to run into each other.\r\n\r\nThe girl, (the only name she is known by in the film) is certainly forthright and sassy in every term of the word. Despite Gyun-woos efforts he consistently fails to break away from her, she orders him around, hits him and expects him to drop everything for her and for some reason he cant work out, he keeps coming back for more.\r\n\r\nThe film is episodic, just as the original internet posts must have been and the reasons for the girls behaviour and attitude are gradually revealed leading to an ending that lays a few coincidences into the mix to make their romance seem predetermined by fate.\r\n\r\nIm not particularly one for romantic comedies but I would hardly term this as a romance (certainly not by Western standards). It is comical and clever, the cast are pleasant and certainly get into their roles. Jun Ji-hyun is very attractive but doesnt mind gurning for the camera while Cha Tae-hyun plays the student slacker with ease.\r\n\r\nIf you like comedies, especially fairly lightweight rom-coms, youll almost certainly enjoy My Sassy Girl, I did, my sons did, my wife who very rarely watches foreign films enjoyed it as well, she particularly appreciated the lack of smut or sexism.\r\n\r\nRecommended as probably the best Korean comedy. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating (I find it hard to believe this hasnt been released in the UK or USA) but Id safely suggest a 12 rating.\r\n\r\nSeveral dvds are available, mine is the Directors cut with quite a few extras, the only problem with it is that the English subs are written for the hard of hearing and often include descriptions of sounds.','f1faafda35c2ffde0956c40ba427ac41',0,'','jeW27ouH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9371,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1152275700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','\r\n\r\nKing And The Clown (Wang-ui Namja) (Korea) (2005)\r\n\r\nDirector: Lee Jun Ik\r\nCast: Kam Woo-seong, Jeong Jin-yeong, Lee Jun-gi\r\n\r\nYup ... this film has broken all time Korea Box Office hit! \r\ni.e., more than Taegukgi, JSA, etc\r\n\r\nRecently, it received 15 nominations at the Grand Bells Awards (Daejong)\r\n\r\nNote: \r\nI feel that the lesser one knows about the plot of this film, the better it will be\r\nBut if you insist, here is the official website\r\nsee\r\nhttp://www.kingsman.co.kr/\r\nhttp://www.festivefilms.com/kingandtheclown/\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nBased on the play \"Yi\" and some historical figures, the film traces the survival of two clowns/jesters who performed on the streets, and due to survival needs, they had decided to venture into the city. Over there, they performed acts that mocked at the king and his concubine. What an audacity! So, they faced execution ... how will they survive? ... and how will all these end?! ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts ...\r\n\r\n-- I thought the theme of the film is much larger than the overhyped and marketed \"gay relationship\" ... In fact, the original title captures the essence of the entire film best ... i.e., \"The King\'s Man (or The King\'s Clown)\" ... suggesting the ambiguity in roles ... in the film, the king is likened to a clown, while the clown(s) are in control like a king. \r\n\r\nInterestingly, the film has also made a swap of \"colors\" in their costumes. Traditionally, the king is supposed to be in red, while the clowns are in blue ... this swap of colors further accentuate the theme of the film ...\r\n\r\nAs a result, I am rather perturbed that many media/publicity seem to emphasize on the \"probable\" gay relationship of the protagonists as opposed to the satire of the story ... in fact, after watching the film, audience would be more captivated by the wit and clever plot ... it is more about the survival of the the clowns (or jesters) in the palace (rather than the gay relationship) ... \r\n\r\nI also thought it is NOT a well comparison to parallel it to Brokeback Mountain nor Farewell To My Concubine ... the three are VERY different ... \r\n\r\n-- I thought the film is very well executed on three grounds ...\r\n(i) the wit in the plot (so please avoid reading too many synopsis/reviews that contain spoilers)\r\n(ii) the casting/performance of the three main protagonists\r\n... yup, the King\'s first appearance in the film is so dominating ... that serious and intense look ... wow ...\r\n... and yup, you have heard enough about how effeminate one clown is ...\r\n... and not forgetting the other clown, his performance is great too ...\r\n(iii) the very subtle but great portrayal of their relationships ...\r\n\r\n-- What do you have to be concerned about (if at all) ...\r\n(i) some of the mockery are kind of vulgar (so parents might be concerned)\r\n(ii) in order to believe the plot/acting, you have to understand that the King is kind of \"insane\" and experiencing lots of troubled past ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nHighly recommended ... mainly for a well written script and a great performance ...\r\n\r\nPS: Try to avoid reading too many synopsis/plot (cos what propels the film is its script and surprises (if any)) …','a6de14f2032c2b96b368eef46e652906',0,'','Qc2yVjY7',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9372,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1152708900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','\r\n\r\nDirector: Yun Jong-bin\r\nCast: Ha Jung-woo, Seo Jang-won, Yun Jong-bin\r\n\r\nwell, this is not Clint Eastwood\'s 1992 Oscar award film ...\r\n\r\nBUT controversy surrounds the film ... because\r\n(i) it is the director\'s project for his thesis\r\n(ii) more imptly, the director is being investigated for deceiving the military into filming on location (i.e., with a \"positive\" script about the military life); yet, the product is that of something else, one which portrays the military not exactly in a positive light ...\r\n(iii) it was featured at the Cannes Film Festival \"Un Certain Regard\"\r\n\r\nThe official website\r\nsee\r\nhttp://www.unforgiven.co.kr/index.htm\r\n\r\nSynopsis\r\nThe film basically traces the life of a new recruit into the military. There, he was fortunate to meet a senior in rank who was his old friend ... would he survive the military? ... would the two maintain their old bond? ... now in their \"present life\", how have their relationship changed ...\r\n\r\nMy thoughts\r\n\r\n- Having watched it some time ago, the film is good on several grounds ...\r\n\r\n(i) for guys who have been through the military, it may touch some chords ... nonetheless, the film does not seek to provide answers to the problem ...\r\n\r\ni believe many people would view the plot simply as ... the inevitable repeat of history (under strict regimentation) ... i.e., no matter how much one tries, one will bow to the sytem and probably be compelled to abuse one\'s authority when one is higher in the hierarchy ...\r\n\r\nnonetheless, i offer another interpretation to the film ... which i hope is more thought provoking ... can it also challenges the question ... i.e., when a person \"tries to be good\" (or \"thinks he is doing good\"), will he end up aggravating the situation instead, rather than improving it ... afterall, life is never a black and white, but rather gray ... \r\n\r\n(ii) told in flashbacks (hope it does not confuse people), the audience often wonders at the actual relationship between the two main protagonists ... and what actually happened in their military such that one is trying to distant himself from the other in civilian life ... does a bond in the past translates into the future?! ... * no spoilers here *\r\n\r\n(iii) hey, the director is rather convincing in his \"cameo\" role ... \r\n\r\nWhat can be better ...\r\ni find the film can improve on several aspects\r\n(i) as a matter of fact, some \"tell tale\" signs of a low budget film\r\n(ii) better pacing, after a while, it can be rather \"slow or uneventful\" ...\r\n(iii) this can work both ways, the \"down to earth\" depiction can make the \"hazing\" looks kind of \"mild\", yet realistic ... nonetheless, it may not bite as much ...\r\n\r\nConclusion:\r\nCan watch ... you will either like it or hate it ...','62732f1dea71bf06c054390f2e25c9b4',0,'','6Y4wEmgo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9373,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1153409940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','\r\n\r\nYou Are My Sunshine (Neoneun nae unmyeong) (2005)\r\n\r\nDirector: Park Jin-pyo\r\n\r\nThe official wesbite\r\nsee\r\nhttp://www.festivefilms.com/youaremysunshine/\r\n\r\nhey justin,\r\ni saw your review at moviexclusive.com, \r\nwanna post here?\r\nhttp://www.moviexclusive.com/review/youaremysunshine/youaremysunshine.htm','e0071fcfab42f03e54b40cbd0427d771',0,'','2T93Hp1B',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9374,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1154117460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Korean Korner','Hey heng, thanks for the heads up.\r\n\r\nSynopsis:\r\n\r\nBased on a true story, \"You Are My Sunshine\" tells the moving love story between a bachelor (Hwang Jung-min) and a good-time gal named Eun-ha (Jeon Do-youn). They get married. However, one day, tests show that Eun-ha is infected with HIV.\r\n\r\nReview:\r\n\r\nThe spectre of AIDS holds much gravitas over the movies gritty and raw romance. Its an obvious symbolism of the death do us part aspect of the marriage vows that they take. It also provides a means for director; Jin-Pyo Parks to instill relevant social messages into the film, just as he did with his gutsy introductory feature, Too Young to Live, which was about a pair of septuagenarian lovers. This time round, he takes on the largely taboo topic of AIDS and prostitution in his stride, he tackles these issues while never losing sight of the films purpose.\r\n\r\nTaking home 2 awards at the 26th Korean Blue Dragon Awards (Best Actor for Hwang and Best Director for Park), the films strength is rightfully in its performances. An underlying sense of self-loathing nuances Jeons heartbreaking portrayal of a desperate woman who hides her agony behind her playful eyes and cheerful exterior. She seeks solace in the cold comfort of the first man to ever treat her right and her complex faade is broken through by the simple affections of Seok-joong.\r\n\r\nHwangs character transitions both physically and emotionally, from a lonely farmer into a hardened and resolute man with a purpose. He is devastating in his conviction to the role as a nave but kindly lug that devotes his life to his wife.\r\n\r\nThe movie completely belongs to the 2 leads. Genuinely funny scenes stem from Seok-joongs interactions with his cow and friends while he woos Eun-ha. The endearing courtship rituals were whimsical in their executions, and while the beginning could have been the start of their decline in the romance, it teases us into hoping for an unrealisable happily ever after ending.\r\n\r\nWhile taking a formulaic approach to the genre, the director infuses his own edginess to the banality of the Korean melodrama by giving the couple a happy ending quickly by throwing in obstacles that are initially intrinsic, then creating a hopeless and desperate situation for both the leads. The film takes a sharp turn when it reaches the halfway mark as a contrasting shift in emotions and haunting music lacquers the emotional turmoil that both characters endure together and alone. Instead of referring to the film as a tale of two halves, it should also be seen as a magnification of the love shared between them even when they are apart.\r\n\r\nSeok-joongs mother (Mun-hee Na), the initially disapproving matriarch becomes the sole proponent of her sons bleak and fleeting hopes of leading the life he wants with Eun-ha. The supporting characters seem as real as they possibly can be, by becoming an unaffected reflection of the romance between Seok-joong and Eun-ha.\r\n\r\nAside from a rather contrived piece of foreshadowing in the middle of the film, it hardly veers into hokey and bathetic displays of affection of the two leads, whose on-screen chemistry carries a huge responsibility in the films success. Its no wonder that the film starts to meander slightly in the later parts of the film when Seok-joong and Eun-ha are left to their own respective devices.\r\n\r\nThe very idea of unconditional love against all odds is a daunting and unrealistic prospect by any means, perhaps even too indulgent to be taken seriously. The oneiric notion of idyllic everlasting love is put to the test when the awful truth and the characters past and present indiscretions are revealed. The dichotomy of the simple-minded and complicated lovers coupled with their innocent and seedy pasts does not go amiss. However, incompatible they seem on paper, the bare bones of their relationship is that they are 2 lonely souls finding what they needed in each other.\r\n\r\nThe title and famed ballad, You Are My Sunshine (originated by Jimmie Davis and Charles Mitchell) has never been more true than in this movie. Its a shining example of Korean melodrama done right. In its finale, the film shows that true love is indeed simple. Its just a matter of committing to it. \r\n\r\n4/5','97d6623e5fce6823e31900b680182ba5',0,'','km2rVWjo',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9375,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1154176020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Thanks justindeimen, good review. Do you have any other gems tucked away, also did you see it in a theatre or on dvd? \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','ac91368e21680e25044aba9f7d8c7192',0,'','Uw478hJg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9376,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1154188440,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Korean Korner','I see them in the cinemas usually, unless they are excellent films like the Revenge trilogy or something quite highly rated, I haven\'t seen the need to buy the DVDs. I usually reserve DVDs for European arthouse and/or American blockbusters.\r\n\r\nHere\'s another one for Almost Love (2006)\r\n\r\nSynopsis:\r\n\r\nJi-hwan yet a stunt who\'s dreaming to be an action star like Jackie Chan and Dalrae who is another actress wannabe have been friends for 11 years. But as Ji-hwan comes dating with a different girl, their relationship starts seesawing between a mere friendship and a love.\r\n\r\nReview:\r\n\r\nKwon Sang-woo and Kim Han-nuel team up again after 2003s My Tutor Friend, which unassumingly went on to be one of South Koreas most successful romantic comedies of recent times. It not only solidified that genres popularity with Korean audiences, it also made big stars out of its 2 leads. Reaching back into past collaborations can be a risky ordeal but the pairs fantastic rapport made Almost Love one of the most highly anticipated new Korean movies of the year and made their onscreen affinity its primary focus for audiences. Fortunately, that is not a problem at all. In fact, its the films saving grace.\r\n\r\nKim shines as the first among equals with her effervescent portrayal of the kind and shy girl-next-door, Dal-rae who is an aspiring actress with a debilitating stage fright. She manages to stifle her radiant beauty, seen in her past films to complete her plain-Jane transformation...........\r\n\r\nContinued at\r\n\r\nwww.moviexclusive.com/review/almostlove/almostlove.htm','c6de4d727ccaa7ce9b11b5653d6aa95f',0,'','02B8eKjz',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9377,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1155537720,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Korean Korner','[Originally posted 09/20/05 in the TIFF \'05 thread]\r\n\r\nTHE PRESIDENT\'S LAST BANG (S. Korea / 2005)\r\n\r\nThe Presidents Last Bang (Geuddae Geusaramdeul) is widely considered as one of the most controversial Korean films of recent years. The reason isn\'t necessarily its violent or sexual content, but rather its depiction of Koreas former President Park Chung-hee who was assassinated by the head of the Korean CIA, someone who was involved in a power struggle with the heads of the governments other agencies. Directed by Im Sang-soo, whose previous feature was the astute sexual drama A Good Lawyers Wife (2003), Last Bang is presented as a fictional and satirical account of the events of October 26, 1979. (In an interview, however, Im has claimed that he believes his take is true. President Parks daughter took the filmmaker to court which prompted removal of 4 minutes of footage.)\r\n\r\nThere isnt much doubt about the fact that Ims view of the president would be considered as a \"leftist\" or a popular one. But, as usual, there are two sides to every story, especially when it comes to politics, so it isnt difficult to come across accounts claiming that President Park, who came into power after a coup in 1961, was a key figure in fighting communism. But Im, along with many others, believe that during his rule only the rich got richer while the rest were stomped upon (the director has gotten a lot of mileage out of comparing Park to President Bush). The problem with this technically polished film is not the potency of Ims view but rather the method of its presentation, along with his seemingly lack of knowledge about the motive of the killings. \r\n\r\nMuch of the film unfolds on the evening of October 26th as President Park (Song Jae-ho) gets ready to meet the heads of the bureaus, including KCIA director Kim (Baek Yoon-shik) who doesnt see eye-to-eye with Cha (Jeong Won-jung), commander of the presidential guard. One KCIA agent under Kim, Ju (Han Suk-gyu), is responsible for producing the presidents lady of the evening (Im makes it clear from the opening scene that the president was a womanizer). Ju comes up with a young college girl named Cho (Cho Eun-ji) while another singer is also present to entertain the president who has a penchant for Japanese \"enka.\" (He and his staff also switch from Korean to Japanese on a few occasions, the language of Koreas former occupiers!)\r\n\r\nIm doesnt leave much to the imagination once the mayhem ensues. But his camera-work, that includes many long tracking shots, is exceptional as we roam from one palatial room to another. The word \"democracy\" is uttered a few times by Kim who believes that hes performing a service to the country through his deed, but to Im everyone was incompetent, making one wish for a bit more depth and political intelligence. (Also, U.S. president Jimmy Carter is referred to as a moron while Pakistani leader Bhutto was apparently nuke hungry.) Though, Last Bang isnt without its share of acerbic humor: Cho being told to not go overboard during sex in order to prevent herself from going down in history books as a whore is only second to an aid covering the presidents private parts with his hat. Last bang satisfies on many counts, and its certainly preferable to shameless Korean \"political\" panderers like Tae Guk Gi (2004), but it had the potential to be a lot more.\r\n\r\n_________________________\r\n\r\n*Available on DVD in the U.S. (Kino).','4eabbfef3bcb806ea707d5654d2bfef4',0,'','vZdr3p97',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9378,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1158470640,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Korean Korner','SAVE THE GREEN PLANET! (S. Korea / 2003)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\"I sometimes feel as if movies from all over the world have melted inside me.\" That Tarantino-esque musing came from young South Korean filmmaker Jang Jun-hwan, whose debut feature, a wild genre mishmash titled Save the Green Planet! (Jigureul Jikyeora!), does give one a feeling that this man has had an unhealthy appetite. His protagonist in the film, Lee Byeong-gu (Shin Ha-gyun), is also not quite well, but a recent tragedy or two in his life is to blame for that. Lee has become convinced that Kang Man-shik (Baek Yun-shik), a CEO of a chemical plant, is an alien from planet Andromeda whos here to destroy the \"Green Planet.\" So, with the help of his portly tightrope-walker girlfriend (Hwang Jung-min), he kidnaps Kang, and subsequently tortures him for more info. Things go from humorously bizarre to darkly berserk after a righteous detective, who had been sniffing around for Kang, meets his grizzly end. And from that point on, the film turns on itself by becoming something altogether serious and, dare I say, meaningful. While Save the Green Planet!s violent content could be toned down (this alone would shave off a few minutes from the overlong film), but that was perhaps just one of the various means employed by Jang to not let his film enter the \"crazy-Korean-comedy\" zone. The film skillfully carries its heavy genre baggage throughout and, for the most part, does so without drawing attention, which is because Jang seems to have an overall plan, not unlike a few of his \"characters.\" Though Jangs visual panache, not to mention the intricately detailed set-designs and sci-fi theories, only confirm a remarkable flaw: Save the Green Planet! has a few too many ideas up its sleeve.\r\n\r\n______________________\r\n\r\n*Available on DVD in the U.S. (Koch Lorber).','24029fec702bbd584c23235aeff2192e',0,'','JglWnLS8',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9379,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1158529320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Korean Korner','Hey, nice to read some thoughts on Save the green planet with which I can agree. Everybody else I talked to, seemed to think this was the new Tarantino or something. \r\nWhile the film had imo quite a lot of good moments it was totally tearing itself apart into different directions all of the time. In the end the director wanted to package so much into his film, that he would have needed one or two hours more to drive a sensible point home. As it is, the film is overburdened and too long, and in the end fell on the wrong side of the scale for me, even if its heart might have been in the right place.\r\nA classic case of a talented director wanting way too much.','5e418ad4b982852b7bea1e6657b773c8',0,'','s7LUrXHk',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9380,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1158531900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Korean Korner','I agree, though the film\'s final few minutes made me reconsider a few points. It would certainly be interesting to see what Jang does next.','b9b8f8a053378ed81e51b313c1b25599',0,'','rj5wUPYb',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9381,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1158534780,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: Korean Korner','Yes, I liked the documentry inserts at the end, though they didn\'t tie in too well with the rest imo.','d6ff1f739df39c7582ea34acdaf80940',0,'','lqvCirwB',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9382,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1182776760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Marriage Is a Crazy Thing (Gyeolhoneun michinjishida) (2002)\r\n\r\nDirected by Ha Yu\r\n\r\nStarring Kam Woo-seong, Eom Jeong-hwa\r\n\r\nWith a title like Marriage Is a Crazy Thing, I was expecting a lightweight romantic comedy, nothing more, nothing less. Im glad to say it went way beyond my expectations.\r\n\r\nDespite the westernization of much of South Korean society, coffee bars, KFC etc, there is still a very strong, traditional mindset in terms of marriage and relationships, particularly amongst the professional / middle classes. As with other far east countries, age old customs still prevail, people are expected to be married by a certain age and match-makers are still employed within certain cultures to help find suitable partners. You have to ask yourself, whats love got to do with it? \r\n\r\nSocial mores and current sexual politics are questioned within the relationship of a 30+ university teacher who is feeling the pressure from his family to tie the knot, though it\'s something he doesn\'t want, and a woman approaching 30 who feels the need to settle down, preferably in a loving relationship. \r\n\r\nAfter meeting and going through the routine of a first date, polite conversation, drinks etc, they end up in a cheap motel for the night, sparks begin to fly as they connect physically.\r\n\r\nThey meet on and off during the following weeks/ months, for both of them, sex appears to be the primary reason, because although there is a deep affection, neither can change their position, he feels the need to retain his freedom while she is still looking for Mr. Right.\r\n\r\nIn its own way, the affair goes through the stages of a relationship until the pressure for each of them becomes a little to much. Sexually, they are a perfect match but with each wanting more in different ways, you can only wonder, where the relationship is heading. \r\n\r\nApart from an interesting look at the clash between customs and needs, what makes this drama stand out is the electricity between the leads, the sex scenes are not explicit, certainly not by current Western standards but there is an intensity between the pair, and not just between the sheets that literally makes the screen sizzle. \r\n\r\nBravura performances, excellent casting and a good tight script all help to raise this film far above the norm making it one that is well worth seeking out. \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but Id say suitable for 15+. \r\n\r\nThe region 3 dvd I have is rated Category III and contains some basic extras including a basic look at the story, an intro to the director and the leading cast.','db91d6cca35b3f84989e1819ba463bdb',0,'','Sx3oqGX1',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9383,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1183006920,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','Hi trevor, \r\nI have actually watched it a few years ago. unfortunately my memory of the details is failing me. nonetheless, i recall my friend liking it a lot.','f202ccdf66b0849bf0aed4cb2b2e67c9',0,'','dJnsejM0',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9384,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1183298340,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','The dvd was sat on my shelf for a long time purely because I thought it wouldn\'t really appeal to me, thankfully it was worth the wait.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','9e4a5331d68f897e56e2087362b31ad1',0,'','4mdHfrnP',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9385,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1184519040,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','Ardor (Milae) (2002)\r\n\r\nDirected by Byun Young-Joo\r\n\r\nStarring Kim Yunjin (Lost), Lee Jong-won \r\n\r\nMi-heun believes her life is pretty much perfect, a loving husband and a pretty eight year old daughter, what more could she desire.\r\n\r\nHer perception is destroyed by one of her husbands students who rudely interupts the happy home in a drunken state to disclose that she has been having an affair with the husband. To cap it off, the student whacks Mi-heun across the head causing serious injury.\r\n\r\nSix months later, Mi-heun along with her husband and daughter have moved into a small village in the country side, the knock to her head has caused long term problems for which she needs clean air and constant medication. She appears to be wasting away, a shadow of her former self, no longer the contented housewife but a victim of her husbands adultery and thanks to the medication, caught in an almost comatose lifestyle.\r\n\r\nLife carries on the same way until one day, Mi-heun realises her tablets have run out, rushing down to the local doctors she has no idea how much this minor event will change her life.\r\n\r\nThe doctor is a bit of a ladies man, he has devised a game to play with women who he finds attractive but are very obviously lacking something in their lives. \r\n\r\nWant to play a little game with me?\r\n\r\nHaving fun is the best medicine for headaches.\r\n\r\nFor four months, until summers end, lets pretend were lovers.\r\n\r\nWell have fun together and have sex.\r\n\r\nSound intriguing?\r\n\r\nBut theres one rule.\r\n\r\nIf one of us tells the other I love you, then its over.\r\n\r\nThese sentences spoken by In-gyu (Lee Jong-won), the doctor provide the pivotal moment in the plot and for Mi-heuns (Kim Yunjin) future. Spoken as they are by a doctor and the fact that they are said to a woman whose life was shattered by her own husbands infidelity makes the whole premise seem fairly ridiculous but\r\n\r\nFor Mi-heun its an awakening, this stranger finds her desirable and unlike her own husband, In-gyu doesnt just want the self satisfaction of the act of sex, no, he makes love; he touches, holds, kisses and caresses his woman. Primal desires and self confidence return to Mi-heun as she turns the tables on her husband and then on In-gyu. As she takes control, the doctor falls under her spell and though he never says it, he does love her.\r\n\r\nGossip spreads like wildfire through the village until the two lovers decide to make what started out as a game, a more permanent arrangement but like all great love stories, tragedy has to strike at the moment of triumph. \r\n\r\nArdor is a fantasy style romantic drama that is very obviously aimed at a female audience, the acceptance of the game takes a leap of faith from the audience but without it, there is no story.\r\n\r\nAs it stands, Kim Yunjins performance just about keeps it believable and its a slow paced but well structured romance, enjoyable but not one worth going out of your way for.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nNo BBFC rating but I\'d say it\'s suitable for 15 and above.\r\n\r\nThe god quality R3 dvd I have, distributed by Cinema Service is choc-full of extras including a 45 min making of, deleted scenes, interviews and the very good soundtrack amongst other things.','fc5520f71def2c453267fae83f79535b',0,'','5GANbEJX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9386,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186213380,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Korean Korner','I have watched this too, but like what you say, I cant recall anything now ...','c218c81c749c5b89ee51a05bd892e3f5',0,'','Q0pMeyNR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9387,1662,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187045520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Korean Korner','The Quiet Family (1998) Choyonghan kajok \r\n\r\nDirected by Kim Ji-woon (A Tale of Two Sisters)\r\n\r\nStarring Choi Min-sik (Oldboy), Song Kang-ho (Memories of Murder)\r\n\r\nExcellent black comedy following the fortunes of a family that buy a guesthouse in the middle of nowhere only to be cursed with patrons who wind up dead. \r\n\r\nSuicides, murder and mayhem ensue as this wonderfully dysfunctional family try to secrete the corpses while putting a brave face on it all despite the misfortunes that befall them.\r\n\r\nThe North/ South divide comes into play though only in a minor way, the emphasis is on thrills, chills and sublime comedy and this, the inspiration for Miikes Happiness of the Katakuris truly deserves to be ranked amongst the best of South Koreas recent film output.\r\n\r\nA thorough recommendation as the sometimes hammy acting that unfortunately proliferates a great deal of South Korean cinema works wonderfully here. \r\n\r\nWell worth seeking out especially if you have seen Happiness of the Katakuris, you cant help but compare the two and the differences are readily apparent though I must admit, Id have to say that overall, The Quiet Family was surprisingly, the more enjoyable of the pair.\r\n\r\nCatch it if you can.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 15.\r\n\r\nAn unusually good quality dvd from the now defunct (at least in the U.K.) Taiseng.\r\n\r\nExtras in this above average 2 disc release include:\r\n\r\nSubtitled director\'s commentary,\r\nMaking of,\r\nMusic Videos,\r\nStoryboard comparison,\r\nTrailers,\r\nFilmographies,\r\nShort film - Coming Out (2001) & more.','60232a93fc5cec4c076a476e60e6f946',0,'','K0nR5BbZ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9388,1663,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1160330460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Stray Dogs (2004) (Iran/France)','Stray Dogs (2004) Sag-haye velgard\r\n\r\nDirected by Marzieh Meshkini\r\n\r\nAfghanistan is in a state of total collapse, two young children, brother and sister survive as many other children do by collecting bits of wood and anything else that will burn to trade for a piece of bread or a petty amount of money. Unlike a lot of the other kids, their parents are still both alive and as well as could be expected, their father, a Taliban fighter is in a prison, their mother is also a prisoner. Her crime was to believe that her husband was dead after a five year absence and to marry somebody else, only to see her husband return, very much alive, in the eyes of the law she has committed a moral crime that could see her permanently incarcerated. \r\n\r\nThe children save a stray dog from a mob of kids who seem intent on burning it alive, and we follow their journey as they are refused entry into the prison holding their mother where they have previously been able to join her at night time. There must be somewhere for them to stay in relative safety but whichever way they turn there is no help for them at all. Their father could allow the release of the mother but he is so full of self-righteous piety that he ignores the pleas of his children. The mother appears to be full of woe but her concerns are purely out of self-pity, where is her love and care for her children? If it is there it certainly isnt visible.\r\n\r\nFollowing advice from an older youth and hoping to be returned to their mother, the children decide to break the law and get arrested. However after several failed attempts they are on the verge of giving up when the same boy suggests that they should go to the local cinema where theyll see a film about a useless thief who gets arrested, they might find inspiration from it.\r\n\r\nAt the cinema there is a humorous scene as the ticket vendor advises them that its an art film which is really boring, if they dont like it therell be no refund. He also says that he cant wait to finish for the day so that he can go and watch a real film. Despite the warnings the kids watch and are entranced by The Bicycle Thieves. After watching the film the older brother enacts the last scene and in a direct copy of the film a large mob surrounds him until he is taken away by the police leaving his younger sister behind despite her protestations with no-one but the faithful dog for company. \r\n\r\nThe Stray Dogs of the title obviously refers to the children as well as the mongrel who proves to be the best and most natural performer in the film. The two children are fine, the little girl is a natural, but there are problems with several other cast members the blame for which along with a few other little things must lie firmly on the shoulders of the director.\r\n\r\nRight at the start I began to wonder if Id made a huge mistake spending two hours in the rain just to see the film, the mob, having caught the dog in a pit start making abusive remarks before trying to burn it alive. The problem is the ringleader who shouts the abuse, mostly concerning the American, British and Russian armies sounds as though hes reading off a cue card, there is absolutely no emotion at all, its as though the only reason he was picked because he had the biggest mouth.\r\n\r\nWe see the children in prison with their mother, a female guard passes and tells them to quiet down and get to sleep, yeah, fine as it goes but despite this being a big prison you dont hear the guard again, until a few minutes later when the guard appears in exactly the same place and says exactly the same line despite the fact that everyone is laying down and trying to sleep. Guess what, a couple of minutes later, the same guard from the same direction saying exactly the same again! I started wondering if the Monty Python team were directing the film, the repitition became humorous and almost surreal.\r\n\r\nTalking of surreal, there are several other directorial faux pas that standout and a few things which are quite weird, strange when so much of the film has an almost documentary type approach, but it does give the film quite a unique feel. \r\n\r\nOverall then, a nice tribute to neo-realism especially De Sica with the viewing and enactment of the scene from Bicycle Thieves plus the trusty canine companion re: Umberto D, the problems of the children also brought back memories of \"Grave of the Fireflies\" but thankfully it isn\'t as tragic as that amazing anime. \r\n\r\nDespite the flaws and my misgivings particularly towards the start of the film I would recommend it. I did leave the cinema happy that Id made the effort to see Stray Dogs.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nBBFC rated 12a, which surprised me considering the level of cursing in the film.','ac5fd88da1aae38e66b325c4d50f0321',0,'','UDCQjiLH',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9389,1663,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186938960,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Stray Dogs (2004) (Iran/France)','Dvd update.\r\n\r\nThe R2 dvd released by Artificial Eye contains a fine transfer of the film but has very little in the way of extras, just a text interview and very brief filmography of the director Marzieh Meshkini.\r\n\r\nI was quite surprised to learn that Marzieh is yet another of the very talented Makhmalbaf clan, being the wife of Mohsen and having worked as assistant director on films for Mohsen and Samira. Hana, Samira\'s younger sister worked as assistant director on Stray Dogs.\r\n\r\nShame there\'s no behind the scenes footage especially after Hana\'s wonderful work with Joy of Madness but a decent enough release.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','548798c084fa1f4ceabf2a54a8a990c3',0,'','0eBid18Y',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9390,1663,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187000520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: Stray Dogs (2004) (Iran/France)','And I\'m a little surprised you didn\'t already know that. But then, Meshkini was previously known primarily for her debut feature, The Day I Became a Woman.','52837567d80f57de54e440bb617c9432',0,'','uL20UdAD',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9391,1663,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187047200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Stray Dogs (2004) (Iran/France)','I found The Day I Became a Woman very enjoyable, I have the dvd and will have to watch it again soon so that I can add comments for it.\r\n\r\nI enjoyed Stray Dogs more second time around though some of the acting from the supporting cast is pretty awful. Must say though that the best Iranian film I\'ve seen this year had nothing to do with the trials and tribulations of women or children in Iraq, Iran or Afghanistan, it was the excellent It\'s Winter - Zemestan (2006) directed by Rafi Pitts, a film that will very likely be in my top 10 of the year.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','69bf96d54db87d9831d3e2e9c2f87303',0,'','SRonv6uz',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9392,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168216020,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','Courtesy of MovieXclusive.com\r\n\r\nReview: \r\n\r\nPerfume starts with a scene so ungodly and inhuman that we almost forget the film is about that most provisionary of humanly sensations. A wry and ubiquitous narration (by John Hurt) begins a tale of child born into the deepest pits of lifes wretches as he slowly discovers his talent. But even then, something was lost for good in that boy. \r\n\r\nBased on a bestselling novel by Patrick Sskind about Jean-Baptiste Grenouille (a commendable Ben Whishaw), a serial killer with a gifted sense of smell so powerful that his olfactory gifts surpasses human conventions, allowing him to unlock odours that nobody else can access. Believing that God himself blessed him, Jean-Baptiste becomes driven with the sole imperative to rape and murder 13 girls in order to get the components he needs to produce the perfect scent. \r\n\r\nIts a departure from the directors (Tom Tykwer) exuberantly pithy Run, Lola, Run. This darkly ironic period piece takes on operatic proportions with Tykwer aiming to create a visual odyssey that becomes an alluring nexus of decadence, a kind of accelerated regression into hell as we follow a man absent of love and conscience. \r\n\r\nA vivid and painted recreation of decrepit 18th century Paris together with its grime and a trenchant insight into the revolting nature of its citizens and filthy living conditions makes this a visual effort worth appreciating. It celebrates the startlingly intrinsic beauty and chaos present within the hideous while exposing the repugnance in flawlessness, striking a balance with the psychotic idiot savants talents and his nature. Its baroque designs almost complement the complexities of the Frankenstein-esque monster that Jean-Baptiste eventually becomes. \r\n\r\nThe compulsive drive to collect a comprehensive assortment of odours leads him to sniff out and experience everything the world has to offer, without having any sort of a moral compass. His killings offer little insight into his mind aside from a desperate attempt to connect with humanity, possibly with a misogynistic sense of retribution. And what about the pointed references to his asexuality or his alienation and anger? \r\n\r\nThe film does not manage to convey the dense character study with enough discipline, often choosing to assault our vision with listless appropriations of the horrors committed when the fascination instead lies with Jean-Baptiste. Indeed, the perfumes debut is curious by all accounts and just adds on to the layers of the appealingly drab persona of our killer. The notion of misogyny does not stop with the character however, as the films women are uninteresting, and are often despicable characters that end up as ensilage to Jean-Baptiste. They become amoral representations of mere lust and retribution that ends up serving a rudimentary purpose in the grand design. \r\n\r\nEven as the film uniformly keeps a creepy and tawdry tone, Perfume allows itself to have some fun in dressing up and powdering Dustin Hoffmans face velvety white. It leaves him to camp up his character, Giuseppe Baldini, a fading perfumer who takes on Jean-Baptiste as an apprentice. Its a plot servicing, lightweight performance thats interchanged in the films halfway mark by a remarkably restrained Alan Rickman, playing the wealthy Mr Richis who represents the films visual shift into a richly colourful world that Jean-Baptiste seems to appreciate but is unable to ever be a part of. All in all, Tykwer is unable to compensate for the lack of smell with a heightened consideration of sensory overloading sound and imagery. Its a film that takes its absurd subject a tad too seriously with an uneven bouquet that turns bad at the end.','70ce0d4c6fe7d37f12a18c118df8f93f',0,'','M8soSlTF',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9393,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168289580,1,0,1,1,1,1,'madhuban','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','Your review makes me sad because I had great faith in the brilliance of the novel and more so in Tykwer\'s ability to work with it But who knows, I might really like it!','3f445ae1e936ab53570fd9430a1a4739',0,'','xbR2cgPj',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9394,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168902540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'justindeimen','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','As much as I don\'t put stock into ratings I gave this a 7 out of 10. That\'s not too bad in my book','3baed7c2b74fe5e748774613c80b6bd1',0,'','i4K2aA67',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9395,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1168942260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','I have watched it last week ... will write if time permits ...','f6a54715544ffb8d006f3c072e1edb5b',0,'','V3qdUYpG',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9396,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1170083880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'hengcs','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','What is commendable\r\n\r\n-- The first half makes the audience feel sympathetic, while the second half keeps you on the toe ... \r\n\r\n-- Although seemingly a plain narrative, as it progresses to the end, you wonder whether it is a philosophical film ... about so many issues ... \r\n... individual/collective\r\n... sense/senseless\r\n... presence/absence\r\n... possession/lost\r\n... survival/life/death\r\n... and even religion\r\netc\r\n\r\nWhat could be better ... \r\n\r\n-- I presume all have a part to play (i.e., the actor, the director, the editor) ... although the initial plot (in the younger days) do make us empathize with the main protagonist\'s plight, his older days and subsequent \"murder rampage\" was far from sympathetic ... the second half , in its pursuit of a thriller, lack characterization and convincing transformation to make the audience side with the main protagonist ...\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nRecommended ... for being able to \"sustain\" an audience\'s interest despite its 2.5 hrs film (the second half seems like a thriller) ...','4c8ad24fe44e7ae8be3276a8ccba4778',0,'','vxw7Hf64',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9397,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186795320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','What god awful rubbish. This film lost me early and never even remotely got me back. So much of the film is covered in filth that you almost feel dirty just for watching it. I found the character completely uncompelling and was baffled at his creepy form of idiocy. Let\'s not even discuss the ridiculous perfume revealed at the end. I never read the book but this movie makes me want to avoid it at all costs. Tykwer made a name for himself by employing nearly all tricks of the trade in his previous films, and this could have done with some more experimentation and a bath.','e54c47f368c639ebbaff54e847c9343e',0,'','3Zx7pmLX',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9398,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186832160,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','You know wpqx, your comments are so wonderfully negative, especially - \"So much of the film is covered in filth that you almost feel dirty just for watching it\" that I feel almost compelled to see it now....... \r\n\r\nI have enjoyed the few films I have seen from Tykwer but have avoided this so far. If I do see it now, I\'m expecting it to be truly dire. Maybe I\'ll try and get hold of the source novel first.\r\n\r\nYour comments are probably more enjoyable than the film, they certainly made me smile.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev','fd36f53702003fbedaf90e1835763b39',0,'','3HPhcMjR',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9399,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187041080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'jcdavies','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','Well, i read half the book- o.k but the fact i didn\'t finish it says something. The film ending surprised me, but i can only wonder what its message was. \r\n\r\n*SPOILER*\r\nIt\'s ok to murder lots of women if you create a scent that will astound a small crowd and then you die? (not much of a reward/outcome). Women have the most angelic scent- the essence of woman is truly celestial? \r\n\r\nMaybe the film is not to be sniffed at but no great shakes either. 6/10.','17a916192704f0dc83d61c123cee2256',0,'','lyebfNFq',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9400,1664,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1187044740,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)','Definitely weak there, and I have no idea what the final message was.','704462721afbf71892716eca6259f46c',0,'','t2vVgL4Q',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9401,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185508080,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','On wpqx\'s request, Foreignfilms Messageboards are proud to present\r\n\r\nThe Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema\r\n\r\nAny thoughts about Grindhouse, Kung Fu, Blaxploitation, \r\nWomen in prison films, Nunsploitation, Zombies, Werewolfs and Lesbians , or whatever genre you think is underrated or underseen is highly appreciated. \r\n\r\nThis is a thread for the outcasts and cult objects of film history. \r\n\r\nI wish you all a nice welcome. \r\n\r\nIndex of Films\r\n.','2e22ec36a582d372c920f99eea8050fa',0,'','qz6QMNtY',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9402,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185527460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Glad to see this get started, and with all this Jess Franco talk, we seem to all be heading in the same direction.','b6a8ffbd73496618f94f21b93d266fb1',0,'','SegZ9XLT',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9403,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185577320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','I\'m glad you opened this thread, A! \r\n\r\nIn the future, I sure will add some postings! \r\n\r\nLet\'s jump between the Arthouse and the Grindhouse!','4ac7517b5d50bf37eb811b5c159c7b41',0,'','Mhrasiqe',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9404,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185578880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','All this frivolous and tasteless trash! \r\n\r\nI think we will have a lot of fun','600943c80048183ea4370555e6b71c48',0,'','AYxk4CoM',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9405,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185582120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'A','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Yesterday afternoon after a movie marathon I had arranged for me and some friends at my house that lasted for almost 20 hours (starting with Tarkovski\'s Offret (1986), and continuing with Paul Morrissey\'s Flesh for Frankenstein (1973) - after which we parted to seperately enjoy Walerian Borowczyk\'s Dzieje grzechu (Story of Sin / 1975) and Paul Verhoeven\'s Starship Troopers (1997)), we were completely burned out, yet our lust for films wasn\'t satisfied at all. \r\n\r\nOne of us had the brilliant idea to try some Richard Kern. He put in one of his DVDs he had purchased a few years ago, and we were ready to watch The Bitches (1992).\r\n\r\nAs the title might suggest, the film starts with two bitchy girls, sitting around on the sofa, coloring their nails, and being bored to death. But the scenery quickly changes when a young stud enters their appartment. They start to seduce him, dancing around the room and getting rid of their clothes. Everything goes as expected as he enjoys the two girls licking his body and jerking him off. But after that we are in for a surprise. \r\n\r\nThe clichd buildup suddenly switches when our protagonist reappears in something resembling a skirt or a corselet. We see him being @#%$ in the ass by one of the girls with a strapped-on dildo, while having to suck the other ones plastic @#%$. The final twist shows him in an over-the-top presentation of every male porn-lovers holiest moment: the cum-shot. In an almost Bukake-like moment we see him soaked with sperm, his face almost buried under the onslaught which the two penis protheses keep shooting at him.\r\n\r\nThe gripping sound-design throughout the film resembles a gloomy jazz score underlayed with a pulsing electriconic beat which creates an otherworldly atmosphere while fuelling your anticipation of the things to come. As a whole, the film is a fascinatingly subversive take on the male gaze, turning the casual viewers expectations upside down and revealing the power structure and modes of suppression which work in our daily lives. Yet, despite its satirical view, it also has an inherent power to release the pent-up aggressions in a hilarious fashion. Beyond any established pathways of sex and eroticism we get a glimpse of the true nature of man. An emancipatory film in the best sense.','d388b77080197ace741ea2455e06790c',0,'','7YzkPX2J',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9406,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185586320,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','My eyes, my virgin eyes!!!','2b103b969d0b089cb27d8e3602af94ea',0,'','7ekDCrzN',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9407,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185587460,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','So porno is part of this? Sounds like someone\'s taste in movies is sending them right to hell.','066f219b76ddbb6c284a73c349838224',0,'','BtWGU6Mm',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9408,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185642540,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','You haven\'t seen anything by Kern yet? He really is an icon of the New York Underground Cinema, you sure heard of him before, don\'t you? Maybe \"The Bitches\" (9/10 from me...) would be too harsh as an introduction. I would recommend \"I hate you now\" or \"Fingered\" which both got a litte \"Nouvelle Vague\"-touch and are not that explicit. But I can understand everybody who hates Kern - I even hated most of his films myself when I saw them for the first time.','1a6821f0ee3c2ccf57788ae4bdb492b2',0,'','er2Unsjc',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9409,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185649200,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','I can\'t speak for the rest of the world but 18 rated art-house films can get away with being far more explicit than 18 rated porn films in the U.K. \r\n\r\nShort Bus, Destricted, Battle in Heaven, each of these and others contain scenes that if in a porn film would restrict its sales to licenced sex shops with an R18 certification.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','6e088fecba6b01489063aba2dc23b83d',0,'','dzXN9x6y',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9410,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185649860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','I\'ll see what I can find, and the hardcore stuff isn\'t an issue with me, believe me I have far, far worse things.','998d2ed7c528903bf551e2e10914eecb',0,'','ylwtXQs6',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9411,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185660420,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Quote: I\'ll see what I can find, and the hardcore stuff isn\'t an issue with me, believe me I have far, far worse things.\r\n\r\nI just thought that you maybe supposed \"The Bitches\" to be a porn film which, of course, it isn\'t.','6469618c58d9b70f517262078f0a66cb',0,'','vwmPA8jJ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9412,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185683700,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Up! (USA 1976, Russ Meyer)\r\n\r\n\r\nSince I would describe \"Supervixens\" as a satirical masterpiece of American cinema from the seventies, this was a little descent and seemed undecided during some moments. Still, there are unbelievable approaches in describing the \"funny life in the wild countryside\", and you can feel that Roger Ebert took part in it and put some literary and historic references into the screenplay which you wouldn\'t expect in a movie of this kind. The conventional storyline reaches its absurd climax with the probably most ape-ocalyptic rape scene in the history of sexploitation cinema when Raven De La Croix gets laid by an incredibly huge lumberjack \"Wolf Man\" surrounded by the howling and horny crowd from the SWEET little town. Finally we find out that Alice, who runs a litte bar is the daughter of Eva Braun (!), wants her husband Paul all for herself and killed her father Adolf Schwartz (!) who exhausted him too much (sexually, of course!) by putting a Piranha into his \"Badezimmer\" (Bathroom).\r\n\r\nI hope, if you haven\'t seen the movie yet, you\'re now curious to go and watch it! \r\n\r\nJust a little addition to A\'s porn-stuff;-) \r\nBy the way: The picture above shows Raven De La Croix fighting the evil Alice with a giant dildo (before anybody assumes that this is a porn film;-)','059609f0097ac935a5de1778abc4ba91',0,'','bwg7AcCv',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9413,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185754620,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','My Russ Meyer is extremely limited, but certainly willing to check out some more, this sounds like a future viewing.','744983cf60a1cbbedd197c905b3c090a',0,'','DgdHYwWl',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9414,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185788520,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','A list from Danny Peary\'s Cult Movies book, arguably the most influential film writer on me personally.\r\n\r\nAguirre, the Wrath of God\r\n   \r\nWerner Herzog\r\n   \r\n1972\r\nAll About Eve\r\n   \r\nJoseph L. Mankievicz\r\n   \r\n1950\r\nAndy Warhol\'s Bad\r\n   \r\nJed Johnson\r\n   \r\n1977\r\nBadlands\r\n   \r\nTerrence Malick\r\n   \r\n1974\r\nBeauty & the Beast\r\n   \r\nJean Cocteau\r\n   \r\n1846\r\nBedtime for Bonzo\r\n   \r\nFrederick de Cordova\r\n   \r\n1951\r\nBehind the Green Door\r\n   \r\nJim and Art Mitchell\r\n   \r\n1972\r\nBeyond the Valley of the Dolls\r\n   \r\nRuss Meyer\r\n   \r\n1970\r\nBilly Jack\r\n   \r\nT. C. Frank\r\n   \r\n1971\r\nBlack Sunday\r\n   \r\nMario Bava\r\n   \r\n1960\r\nThe Brood\r\n   \r\nDavid Cronenberg\r\n   \r\n1979\r\nBurn!\r\n   \r\nGillo Pontecorvo\r\n   \r\n1970\r\nCaged Heat\r\n   \r\nJonathan Demme\r\n   \r\n1974\r\nCasablanca\r\n   \r\nMichael Curtiz\r\n   \r\n1942\r\nCitizen Cane\r\n   \r\nOrson Welles\r\n   \r\n1941\r\nThe Conqueror Worm\r\n   \r\nMichael Reeves\r\n   \r\n1941\r\nDance, Girl, Dance\r\n   \r\nDorothy Arzner\r\n   \r\n1940\r\nDeep End\r\n   \r\nJerzy Skolimowski\r\n   \r\n1971\r\nDetour\r\n   \r\nEdgar J. Ulmer\r\n   \r\n1946\r\nDuck Soup\r\n   \r\nLeo McCarey\r\n   \r\n1933\r\nEl Topo\r\n   \r\nAlexandro Jodorowsky\r\n   \r\n1971\r\nEmmanuelle\r\n   \r\nJust Jaeckin\r\n   \r\n1974\r\nEnter the Dragon\r\n   \r\nRobert Clouse\r\n   \r\n1973\r\nEraserhead\r\n   \r\nDavid Lynch\r\n   \r\n1978\r\nFantasia\r\n   \r\nWalt Disney (producer)\r\n   \r\n1940\r\nForbidden Planet\r\n   \r\nFred McLeod Wilcox\r\n   \r\n1956\r\nForce of Evil\r\n   \r\nAbraham Polonsky\r\n   \r\n1948\r\n42nd Street\r\n   \r\nLloyd Bacon\r\n   \r\n1933\r\nFreaks\r\n   \r\nTod Browning\r\n   \r\n1932\r\nThe Girl Can\'t Help It\r\n   \r\nFrank Tashlin\r\n   \r\n1956\r\nGreetings\r\n   \r\nBrian De Palma\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nGun Crazy a.k.a Deadly is the Female\r\n   \r\nJoseph H. Lewis\r\n   \r\n1949\r\nHalloween\r\n   \r\nJohn Carpenter\r\n   \r\n1978\r\nHard Day\'s Night, A\r\n   \r\nRichard Lester\r\n   \r\n1964\r\nThe Harder They Come\r\n   \r\nPerry Henzel\r\n   \r\n1973\r\nHarold and Maude\r\n   \r\nHal Ashby\r\n   \r\n1971\r\nThe Honeymoon Killers\r\n   \r\nLeonard Kastle\r\n   \r\n1970\r\nHouse of Wax\r\n   \r\nAndre de Toth\r\n   \r\n1953\r\nI Married a Monster from Outer Space\r\n   \r\nGene Fowler, Jr.\r\n   \r\n1958\r\nI Walked With a Zombie\r\n   \r\nJacques Tourneur\r\n   \r\n1943\r\nInvasion of the Body Snatchers\r\n   \r\nDon Siegel\r\n   \r\n1956\r\nIt\'s a Gift\r\n   \r\nNorman Z. McLeod\r\n   \r\n1934\r\nIt\'s a Wonderful Life\r\n   \r\nFrank Capra\r\n   \r\n1946\r\nJason and the Argonauts\r\n   \r\nDon Chaffey\r\n   \r\n1963\r\nJohnny Guitar\r\n   \r\nNicholas Ray\r\n   \r\n1954\r\nThe Killing\r\n   \r\nStanley Kubrick\r\n   \r\n1956\r\nKing Kong\r\n   \r\nCooper/Schoedsack\r\n   \r\n1933\r\nKing of Hearts\r\n   \r\nPhilippe de Broca\r\n   \r\n1967\r\nKiss Me, Deadly\r\n   \r\nRobert Aldrich\r\n   \r\n1955\r\nLa Cage aux Folles\r\n   \r\nEdouard Molinaro\r\n   \r\n1979\r\nLand of the Pharaos\r\n   \r\nHoward Hawks\r\n   \r\n1955\r\nLaura\r\n   \r\nOtto Preminger\r\n   \r\n1944\r\nThe Little Shop of Horrors\r\n   \r\nRoger Corman\r\n   \r\n1960\r\nLola Montis\r\n   \r\nMax Ophuls\r\n   \r\n1955\r\nThe Long Goodbye\r\n   \r\nRobert Altman\r\n   \r\n1973\r\nMad Max\r\n   \r\nGeroge Miller\r\n   \r\n1979\r\nThe Maltese Falcon\r\n   \r\nJohn Huston\r\n   \r\n1941\r\nMan of the West\r\n   \r\nAnthony Mann\r\n   \r\n1958\r\nNight of the Living Dead\r\n   \r\nGeorge A. Romero\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nThe Nutty Professor\r\n   \r\nJerry Lewis\r\n   \r\n1963\r\nOnce Upon a Time in the West\r\n   \r\nSergio Leone\r\n   \r\n1969\r\nOut of the Past\r\n   \r\nJacques Tourneur\r\n   \r\n1947\r\nOutrageous!\r\n   \r\nRichard Benner\r\n   \r\n1977\r\nPandora\'s Box\r\n   \r\nG. W. Pabst\r\n   \r\n1929\r\nPeeping Tom\r\n   \r\nMichael Powell\r\n   \r\n1960\r\nPerformance\r\n   \r\nCammell/Roeg\r\n   \r\n1970\r\nPetulia\r\n   \r\nRichard Lester\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nPink Flamingos\r\n   \r\nJohn Waters\r\n   \r\n1973\r\nPlan 9 from Outer Space\r\n   \r\nEdward D. Wood, Jr.\r\n   \r\n1956\r\nPretty Poison\r\n   \r\nNoel Black\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nThe Producers\r\n   \r\nMel Brooks\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nThe Rain People\r\n   \r\nFrancis Ford Coppola\r\n   \r\n1969\r\nRebel Without a Cause\r\n   \r\nNicholas Ray\r\n   \r\n1955\r\nThe Red Shoes\r\n   \r\nPowell/Pressburger\r\n   \r\n1948\r\nReefer Madness\r\n   \r\nLouis Gasnier\r\n   \r\n1936\r\nRio Bravo\r\n   \r\nHoward Hawks\r\n   \r\n1959\r\nRock\'n\'Roll High School\r\n   \r\nAllan Arkush\r\n   \r\n1979\r\nThe Rocky Horror Picture Show\r\n   \r\nJim Sharman\r\n   \r\n1975\r\nThe Scarlet Empress\r\n   \r\nJosef von Sternberg\r\n   \r\n1934\r\nThe Searchers\r\n   \r\nJohn Ford\r\n   \r\n1956\r\nShock Corridor\r\n   \r\nSamuel Fuller\r\n   \r\n1963\r\nThe Shooting\r\n   \r\nMonte Hellman\r\n   \r\n1967\r\nSingin\' in the Rain\r\n   \r\nKelly/Donen\r\n   \r\n1952\r\nSunset Boulevard\r\n   \r\nBilly Wilder\r\n   \r\n1950\r\nSylvia Scarlett\r\n   \r\nGeorge Cukor\r\n   \r\n1936\r\nThe Tall T\r\n   \r\nBudd Boetticher\r\n   \r\n1957\r\nTargets\r\n   \r\nPeter Bogdanovich\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nTarzan and his Mate\r\n   \r\nCedric Gibbons\r\n   \r\n1934\r\nThe Texas Chain Saw Massacre\r\n   \r\nTobe Hooper\r\n   \r\n1974\r\nTop Hat\r\n   \r\nMark Sandrich\r\n   \r\n1935\r\nTrash\r\n   \r\nPaul Morrisey\r\n   \r\n1970\r\nTwo for the Road\r\n   \r\nStanley Donen\r\n   \r\n1967\r\nTwo-Lane Blacktop\r\n   \r\nMonte Hellman\r\n   \r\n1971\r\n2001: A Space Oddysey\r\n   \r\nStanley Kubrick\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nUp in Smoke\r\n   \r\nLou Adler\r\n   \r\n1978\r\nVertigo\r\n   \r\nAlfred Hitchcock\r\n   \r\n1958\r\nThe Warriors\r\n   \r\nWalter Hill\r\n   \r\n1979\r\nWhere\'s Poppa?\r\n   \r\nCarl Reiner\r\n   \r\n1970\r\nThe Wild Bunch\r\n   \r\nSam Peckinpah\r\n   \r\n1969\r\nThe Wizard of Oz\r\n   \r\nVictor Fleming\r\n   \r\n1939','8eec7b71fb23a231bb2d25902b96d112',0,'','2fFjYsLy',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9415,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185789060,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Vol. 2\r\n\r\nAltered States\r\nKen Russell\r\n1980\r\n\r\nThe American Friend\r\nWim Wenders\r\n1977\r\n\r\nBarbarella\r\nRoger Vadim\r\n1968\r\n\r\nBasket Case\r\nFrank Henelotter\r\n1982\r\n\r\nBeat the Devil\r\nJohn Huston\r\n1954\r\n\r\nBedazzled\r\nStanley Donen\r\n1967\r\n\r\nThe Big Heat\r\nFritz Lang\r\n1953\r\n\r\nBlood Feast\r\nHerschell G. Lewis\r\n1963\r\n\r\nBlood Money\r\nRowland Brown\r\n1933\r\n\r\nA Boy and his Dog\r\nL. Q. Jones\r\n1975\r\n\r\nBreathless\r\nJean-Luc Godard\r\n1959\r\n\r\nThe Bride of Frankenstein\r\nJames Whale\r\n1935\r\n\r\nChildren of Paradise\r\nMarcel Carne\r\n1945\r\n\r\nA Clockwork Orange\r\nStanley Kubrick\r\n1971\r\n\r\nCutter\'s Way\r\nIvan Passer\r\n1981\r\n\r\nDark Star\r\nJohn Carpenter\r\n1975\r\n\r\nDaughters of Darkness\r\nHarry Kumel\r\n1971\r\n\r\nThe First Nudie Musical\r\nHaggard/Kimmel\r\n1976\r\n\r\nGodzilla, King of the Monsters\r\nHonda/Morse\r\n1956\r\n\r\nThe Great Texas Dynamite Chase\r\nMichael Pressman\r\n1977\r\n\r\nHigh School Confidential\r\nJack Arnold\r\n1958\r\n\r\nHis Girl Friday\r\nHoward Hawks\r\n1940\r\n\r\nLast Tango in Paris\r\nBernardo Bertolucci\r\n1973\r\n\r\nThe Man Who Fell to Earth\r\nNicolas Roeg\r\n1976\r\n\r\nMarnie\r\nAlfred Hitchcock\r\n1964\r\n\r\nMassacre at Central High\r\nRenee Dalder\r\n1976\r\n\r\nMommie Dearest\r\nFrank Perry\r\n1981\r\n\r\nMonty Python and the Holy Grail\r\nGilliam/Jones\r\n1974\r\n\r\nMorgan!\r\nKarel Reisz\r\n1966\r\n\r\nMs. 45 (aka Angel of Vengeance)\r\nAbel Ferrara\r\n1981\r\n\r\nMy Darling Clementine\r\nJohn Ford\r\n1946\r\n\r\nNight of the Demon\r\nJacques Tourneur\r\n1957\r\n\r\nNightmare Alley\r\nEdmund Goulding\r\n1947\r\n\r\nThe Parallax View\r\nAlan Pakula\r\n1974\r\n\r\nPhantom of the Paradise\r\nBrian De Palma\r\n1974\r\n\r\nPicnic at a Hanging Rock\r\nPeter Weir\r\n1975\r\n\r\nPretty Baby\r\nLouis Malle\r\n1978\r\n\r\nQuadrophenia\r\nFrank Roddam\r\n1979\r\n\r\nSalt of the Earth\r\nHerbert Biberman\r\n1954\r\n\r\nThe Seventh Seal\r\nIngmar Bergman\r\n1956\r\n\r\nSome Like it Hot\r\nBilly Wilder\r\n1959\r\n\r\nSullivan\'s Travels\r\nPreston Sturges\r\n1941\r\n\r\nTaxi Driver\r\nMartin Scorsese\r\n1976\r\n\r\nTo Be or Not To Be\r\nErnst Lubitsch\r\n1942\r\n\r\nVanishing Point\r\nRichard C. Sarafian\r\n1971\r\n\r\nWhite Heat\r\nRaoul Walsh\r\n1949\r\n\r\nThe Wicker Man\r\nRobin Hardy\r\n1973\r\n\r\nWilly Wonka & the Chocolate Factory\r\nMel Stuart\r\n1971\r\n\r\nWuthering Heights\r\nWilliam Wyler\r\n1939\r\n\r\nZardoz\r\nJohn Boorman\r\n1974','cfa77bbd7d3567116108d6e4e456cbde',0,'','CYVr1d7u',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9416,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185789180,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Volume 3 (Forgive the poor formatting)\r\n\r\nAn American Werewolf in London\r\n   \r\nJohn Landis\r\n   \r\n1981\r\nAnnie Hall\r\n   \r\nWoody Allen\r\n   \r\n1977\r\nThe Black Cat, T\r\n   \r\nEdgar J. Ulmer\r\n   \r\n1934\r\nBlade Runner\r\n   \r\nRidley Scott\r\n   \r\n1982\r\nBlue Velvet\r\n   \r\nDavid Lynch\r\n   \r\n1986\r\nBody Heat\r\n   \r\nLawrence Kasdan\r\n   \r\n1981\r\nThe Cabinet of Dr. Caligari\r\n   \r\nRobert Wiene\r\n   \r\n1919\r\nCafi Flesh\r\n   \r\nRinse Dream\r\n   \r\n1982\r\nChilly Scenes of Winter\r\n   \r\nJoan Micklin Silver\r\n   \r\n1982\r\nChoose Me\r\n   \r\nAlan Rudolph\r\n   \r\n1984\r\nDiva\r\n   \r\nJean-Jaqcues Beinex\r\n   \r\n1982\r\nDr. Strangelove\r\n   \r\nStanley Kubrick\r\nEasy Rider\r\n   \r\nDennis Hopper\r\n   \r\n1969\r\nFaster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!\r\n   \r\nRuss Meyer\r\n   \r\n1966\r\nFive Million Years to Earth\r\n   \r\nRoy Ward Baker\r\n   \r\n1968\r\nGentlemen Prefer Blondes\r\n   \r\nHoward Hawks\r\n   \r\n1953\r\nGlen or Glenda?\r\n   \r\nEdward D. Wood, Jr.\r\n   \r\n1952\r\nThe God Must Be Crazy\r\n   \r\nJamie Uys\r\n   \r\n1980\r\nImitation of Life\r\n   \r\nDouglas Sirk\r\n   \r\n1959\r\nIn a Lonely Place\r\n   \r\nNicholas Ray\r\n   \r\n1950\r\nIt\'s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World\r\n   \r\nStanley Kramer\r\n   \r\n1963\r\nLiquid Sky\r\n   \r\nSlava Tsukerman\r\n   \r\n1983\r\nMartin\r\n   \r\nGeroge A. Romero\r\n   \r\n1978\r\nMiracle on 34th Street\r\n   \r\nGeorge Seaton\r\n   \r\n1947\r\nMonsieur Verdoux\r\n   \r\nCharles Chaplin\r\n   \r\n1947\r\nThe Naked Kiss\r\n   \r\nSamule Fuller\r\n   \r\n1964\r\nNapoleon\r\n   \r\nAbel Gance\r\n   \r\n1927\r\nNew York, New York\r\n   \r\nMartin Scorsese\r\n   \r\n1977\r\nNight of the Hunter\r\n   \r\nCharles Laughton\r\n   \r\n1955\r\nNow, Voyager\r\n   \r\nIrving Rapper\r\n   \r\n1942\r\nLos Olvidados\r\n   \r\nLuis Bunuel\r\n   \r\n1950\r\nOn Her Majesty\'s Secret Service\r\n   \r\nPeter Hunt\r\n   \r\n1969\r\nOne-Eyed Jacks\r\n   \r\nMarlon Brando\r\n   \r\n1961\r\nOver the Edge\r\n   \r\nJonathan Kaplan\r\n   \r\n1979\r\nPsycho\r\n   \r\nAlfred Hitchcock\r\n   \r\n1960\r\nThe Quiet Man\r\n   \r\nJohn Ford\r\n   \r\n1952\r\nRide the High Country\r\n   \r\nSam Peckinpah\r\n   \r\n1962\r\nThe Road Warrior\r\n   \r\nGeroge Miller\r\n   \r\n1981\r\nSeconds\r\n   \r\nJohn Frankenheimer\r\n   \r\n1966\r\nSons of the Desert\r\n   \r\nWilliam A. Seiter\r\n   \r\n1933\r\nA Star is Born\r\n   \r\nGeroge Cukor\r\n   \r\n1954\r\nThe Stunt Man\r\n   \r\nRichard Rush\r\n   \r\n1980\r\nThe Terminator\r\n   \r\nJames Cameron\r\n   \r\n1984\r\nThat Hamilton Woman\r\n   \r\nAlexander Korda\r\n   \r\n1941\r\nThe Thief of Bagdad\r\n   \r\nBerger/Powell/Whelan\r\n   \r\n1940\r\nThe Thing from Another World\r\n   \r\nChristian Nyby\r\n   \r\n1951\r\nTouch of Evil\r\n   \r\nOrson Welles\r\n   \r\n1958\r\nWalkabout\r\n   \r\nNicholas Roeg\r\n   \r\n1971\r\nThe Wanderers\r\n   \r\nPhilip Kaufman\r\n   \r\n1979\r\n\r\nWhere the Boys Are\r\nHenry Levin\r\n1960','d10e6b69b0e73423054db414c62763bd',0,'','5L4oQSDZ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9417,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185791760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Interesting and well-mixed list but still, there are too many american films and renowned \"Arthouse\"-Classics. Bergman, Chaplin, Hitchcock, Capra, Ford, Sturges, Wenders, Powell/Pressburger and Bunuel in such a context... But maybe I\'m just too disappointed that NO work of my personal movie-wizard and Maestro Dario Argento is included but films by John Landis and Brian de Palma;-) Maybe we should just ask Quentin Tarantino what he would recommend! \r\n\r\nAbout Russ Meyer: I hope that A maybe will please us with a little review of \"Vixen\" in the future which he seemed to like very much, and of course, that you will have some more great Russ Meyer-Experiences soon! Meyer once told: \"My friend Federico Fellini (!) also likes women with big breasts but in his country, they call his movies art.\" \r\n\r\nRemember Meyer\'s nickname: \"The rural Fellini\".','306a9a682db23cfab0187fbce2b987bb',0,'','JhPq7AZV',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9418,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185797880,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','At last, somewhere to go through all those art-house \'Pinku\' films.......... \r\n\r\nCheers Trev.\r\n\r\nP.S. Russ Meyer, I can\'t say his work has been a revelation to me, more a case of seen one, seen em all. \r\n\r\nI\'m looking forward to some inspired reviews on his films just to prove me wrong. Mind you, I\'d be more amazed if somebody could make Jean Rollin\'s films sound interesting in any way.','6f88522c4311068e7b74c3767e182cc6',0,'','QVxPkcrg',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9419,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185828120,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Quote:At last, somewhere to go through all those art-house \'Pinku\' films.......... \r\n\r\nHow shall I understand that? \r\n\r\nQuote:I\'d be more amazed if somebody could make Jean Rollin\'s films sound interesting in any way. \r\n\r\nThat should be no problem at all, I admire Rollin very much and probably I will take down some notes on him and his films in the future (If you\'d like to read them, I know that my english is awful). \r\nFor the beginning, \"Lvres de sang\" or \"La rose de fer\" would be a good choice- if you want \"test him\".','3e97aa646741d4b0711969ce9fe36091',0,'','owZjRYkz',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9420,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1185828360,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Rollin is hit and miss, and right now I can\'t remember what the \"hit\" is. I\'ll admit Peary\'s list is slightly dated and some of the films might read more as a list of film classics than cult movies, but the original book was written in 1980 so the cult film of his day is now the established masterpiece of ours. I\'m thinking of working extensively on trash following my current silent film binge.','9fc36b2046889dd4fe9fb8662b80a5d8',0,'','tVc7QxiC',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9421,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186205940,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Altered States (1980) - Ken Russell\r\n\r\nStyle over substance is the best way to describe the cinema of Ken Russell. He consistently made adventurous and exciting visual feasts, but very rarely were these films actually successful in and of themselves. Altered States is not much difference. Paddy Chayefsky wrote the screenplay based on his novel and was so disappointed with the film that he used an alias for the screenplay. Russell\'s flair for the visual is well in tact, as William Hurt goes through one hallucination after another and the entire film comes across as a break between weird trips. Along the way the film develops something of a werewolf subplot with Hurt\'s genetics changing to something of a simian caveman. Describing the plot is hard, and explaining the ending is harder, but in a few sequences you just have to stop and hang with your mouth open.','591acee59db82dcfdb2af9a3d0bef674',0,'','gRsYxhvG',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9422,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186349400,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Hell of the Living Dead (1980) - Bruno Mattei\r\n\r\nNow this might be more the style for this thread. This horrific mess of a movie is full of awful dialog, even by badly dubbed Italian horror standards, a plot that makes next to no sense, and very, very, very stupid people. Of course minutes into battling zombies it\'s discovered that they have to be shot in the head, yet for the rest of the film no matter how many times told no one seems to be able to remember this bit of advice. On top of that the \"soldiers\" who are fighting these zombies have a habbit of holding their gun, looking away and randomly spraying bullets, it\'s a wonder they didn\'t shoot some of their own men. However these films aren\'t watched for great plots or stories, its about the gore, and where applicable gratuitous nudity. The first is in abundance and picks up quite nicely, including our heroine\'s jaw being ripped off her face and blood pushing her eyballs out, quite nice. Speaking of nice when the travelling soldiers and lone female come across some \"natives\" the woman says she knows how to hanlde them, and quickly proceeds to get naked and put on paint. Hell I\'ll take it. If you\'re looking for a thinking man\'s zombie film don\'t bother, but for a few brief moments of inspired gore, then this is about as reliable as the next.','dea56a7a7950185c05dc7dca849d3255',0,'','aXqJEYUf',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9423,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186360560,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Two nice efforts! But this time, it\'s my turn to disagree;-: Ken Russel\'s films are, in my opinion, mostly far away from style over substance and especially \"Altered States\". Maybe you could prosecute \"Tommy\" for that (although it is also quite fascinating), but not this one. It\'s a movie about a man (William Hurt) who got tired of being a member of mankind and wants to leave it. The dream in which he turns into a statue and gets decomposed into sand makes that quite clear. \r\nNot my favourite Russel Film (that goes to the excellent, underrated \"Gothic\" and \"China Blue\") but a mazy and versatile film against the forces of civilization. (8/10)\r\n\r\nAbout \"Hell of the living dead / Inferno dei morti viventi\" you are pretty right, a huge hill of crap. But I can\'t deny that, from time to time, I like to climb such hills;-) And there are some other italian Zombie-Horror-flicks like \"The Beyond / L\'Aldila\" (Italy 1980, Lucio Fulci) or \"The living dead at the Manchester Morgue / Non si deve profanare il sonno dei morti\" (Spain/Italy 1974, Jorge Grau) that I personally would praise as REALLY great movies, visionary, intelligent, sometimes even slightly subversive though not excempt from a huge amount of gore and some unintended humour.\r\n\r\nDid you watch the movie in memory of Bruno Mattei? He died this May (the 21st) just a few months after finishing his last low budget Women-in-prison-flick \"The Jail: A woman\'s hell\".\r\n\r\nMotel Hell (USA 1980, Kevin Connor)\r\n\r\nHere you are: This movie finally reveals the inconvenient truth behind the myth of the friendly and hard working all-american farmer and his sweet little motel in which he turns innocent tourists, rockabillies, managers and perverts into delicious delights that are beloved all over the country. Get in touch with farmer Vincent (Rory Calhoun) and his chubbily sister Ida (Nancy Parsons) who sure will treat you like god is said to be treaten in the 9th heaven. Visit their well done garden in which they breed their guests buried to their throats until they\'ve got the right taste. And don\'t miss the big chainsaw fight in the butchery between Vincent and his little Brother, Sheriff Bruce (Paul Linke). You\'ll love it!\r\nGet your free ticket to this extraordinary and idyllic ride to the famous countryside. Now!\r\n\r\n9 out of 10.\r\n\r\nI love this mainly because of it\'s insane and surreal ideas and the black-humour-satire made out of them. You can feel that the director, Kevin Connor, wasn\'t very familiar with the genre and \"Motel Hell\" was his first horror movie. I never liked the classic american \"Backwood Horror\" in the manner of the (great) \"Texas Chainsaw Massacre\" but this one really managed to get me out of my european genre chamber;-)','2a177d41d56c3e160c9c3bda90c5d333',0,'','h2WDS1Ef',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9424,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186423860,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Just picked up the dvd of Midnight Movies: From the Margin to the Mainstream (2005) - Stuart Samuels which comes packaged with Romero\'s Night of the Living Dead (1968) and Reefer Madness aka Tell Your Children (1936) - Louis J. Gasnier.\r\n\r\nSure it\'ll contain something suitable for this thread.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','99465467635d518f806f58b2246ebe49',0,'','MUvPuxbS',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9425,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186425300,1,0,1,1,1,1,'R6dw6C','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','You are from the US, are you? Strange - this documentary is sold here in Germany in the same package yet by another company.\r\n\r\nI\'d like to read some lines about \"Reefer Madness\".','0bc3305bab25bec334c9e10d10962c66',0,'','vTqnBX2w',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9426,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186427280,1,0,1,1,1,1,'trevor826','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','No, I\'m glad to say I\'m in the U.K. The R2 dvd was released by Metrodome.\r\n\r\nI\'m sure I can knock up some notes on Reefer Madness which I\'ve seen a few times down the years, I love these insanely over the top propoganda drama/docs.\r\n\r\nCheers Trev.','d603b26f9be4ed717f58d85094760e0f',0,'','49z6GVlL',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9427,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186434900,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Reefer Madness is public domain here, as is NOTLD so you sometimes have to beware of what transfer you\'re getting. I\'m just upset that my previously region free player decided yesterday to refuse a region 2 and a region 3 DVD, so unfortunately I\'ll have to wait at least a couple more days before I can watch Kore-eda\'s latest and some more Oshima.\r\n\r\nHell of the Living Dead has a sequence that seems out of place with the film that comes close to being socially relevant. When the swat team or whatever they are goes after the terrorists at the beginning of the film it has a chance to make some relevant comment about the state of Italian politics at the time, but just seems to disregard it. The film reminded me of the Beyond only in that the zombies were ridiculously slow, and no matter how many times you told someone to shoot them in the head they still didn\'t catch on.\r\n\r\nI\'m learning right now just how ignorant I am of world cinema via Jonathan Rosenbaum\'s elitist Essential Cinema book, so I might be working on that a while.','7ec2f65c3c909e2050d40435074f589a',0,'','BCHylxsQ',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9428,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186653600,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Repo Man (1984) - Alex Cox\r\n\r\nI wish there was a reason why I\'ve avoided Alex Cox\'s work up until now, but I have no reason. So fitting that I start at the beginning with his first film and one that almost instantly fell into the cult film market. A flop upon its release it suffered from the same affliction that plagues most future cult films, no one knew how to market it. In fact it was originally marketed as an action film which is pretty laughable. Now this is not a film that one viewing will really do justice to. In fact one of the details of the film frequently pointed out is that none of the watches in the film have hands. I\'m gonna be honest I didn\'t even notice this so clearly there\'s more under the surface. The film is that wry comedy where we\'re not exactly expecting great gags, but chuckling throughout the film. The dialog is quotable and downright silly for most of the film. Cox takes stabs at everything ranging from UFO conspirators, car culture, TV preachers, mass marketing, and good old suburban teen angst. Sure the picture is a product of its time, and the music is a great chronicle of LA\'s underground hardcore/punk scene, and the Circle Jerks even appear in the film, to which Otto (Estevez) says \"I can\'t believe I used to like these guys\". A cult classic through and through, and an essential for any \"cult movie\" enthusiast.','a7fe4a14f7e89766f30a78c711e0c439',0,'','ySlLuiMK',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9429,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186738260,1,0,1,1,1,1,'arsaib4','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','DVD?','e6937ab924ecba622406bdc420ce4bd2',0,'','b0sePUBm',1,0,'',0,0,0),(9430,1665,3,1,0,'69.120.114.47',1186778760,1,0,1,1,1,1,'wpqx','Re: The Cult Lovers Compendium For Obscure Cinema','Yes Focus Features released a special edition of it including a somewhat interesting if not particularly informative interview with Harry Dean Stanton.','99dc796e7dd727301738bbe5acba4636',0,'','W56xmrEP',1,0,'',0,0,0),