Reviews

I must say, cheesy acting, sad script, x-rated language that was just not necessary, trite and cliche interpretations in script, costuming and general staging. Someone said this was good?hmmmm.....if you think porn is artistic, I guess so. I understand that Spain is not exactly a major competitor in the film industry, but Penelope Cruz? in 1999? What was she thinking? Did someone tell her this would add credibility to her resume? Worst of all...BRAVO obviously did not screen this movie before running it on basic cable late afternoon. While children are not the innocents that we sometimes wish they were, I don't feel that subtitles such as "do you want me to give you a b__w job" and "suck my c__k" are appropriate for 6 p.m. on general cable. Really bad movie!

My tastes may be a little more refined or educated than some previous reviewers. This is not a candidate for the Academy Awards, but still, it is a lovely movie. It is based on a true story and played by a capable and entertaining cast. The first half of the movie is hysterically funny.....the humor is simple, but very entertaining........(if you tastes lean toward juvenile humor such as "Bevis and Butthead", you may not agree). The rest of the movie is very "heart-warming" and even suspenseful. All actors deliver superb and energetic performances. Most of the staging is beautiful and wonderfully period with the exception of some computerized scenes at the World's Faire. Even Paul Ruebens is perfectly cast and does a perfect job! It was captivating and involving for family viewing and for those whose tastes are not limited to high-tech imagery and gory destruction. While I am also a big sci-fi fan and adore murder mysteries and suspense, I still found this to be a pleasing movie that truly involves the watcher in the story.....that is to say....those of us without narrow minds and tastes. If you dislike animals, this movie is not recommended.