Saturday, November 10, 2012

Cat on a Hot Tin Room (1958) - 9 stars out of 10

Cat on a Hot Tin Room (1958) - 9 stars out of 10

Wow.  Elizabeth Taylor.  Irresistible.  "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" has a lot to offer, like an incredible story by Tennessee Williams, wonderful performances by Paul Newman and Burl Ives, and a dysfunctional family that keeps the film lighthearted while creating major conflict.  But the eyes of Elizabeth Taylor simply steal the show.  I don't know how anybody could watch this film without falling in love with her.  While I feel that the story falls short of "Streetcar," this slice of southern Americana shimmers with raw emotions and intense friction between characters.  Even though Tennessee Williams hated this adaptation because it eliminated the implied homosexuality of Brick, it is still an incredible film brought to life by two of cinema's finest.  You just have to experience the story for yourself, even though I'd likely watching "Streetcar" twice before watching this again once.

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Hot Fuzz - 10 stars out of 10

Hot Fuzz - 10 stars out of 10

"Hot Fuzz" is one of the best comedies that I've ever seen.  As a cross between British and American comedy (so completely different), it takes the best features from each.  The story seems absolutely ludicrous but becomes realistic once the twist is revealed, while perfectly blending its comedy with action.  Simon Pegg is so funny (and cool at the same time) as Nicholas Angel and once he teams up with Nick Frost, hilarity ensues.  You'll love falling in love with all of the quirky characters in town while the cinematography and quick camera cuts keep you on edge as they enhance this film.  When you watch this movie, you can expect to laugh out loud, have your jaw drop, and to see "Romeo & Juliet" as you've never seen it before!  "Hot Fuzz" is a must-see.