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Reviews
Growth (2010)
I really liked it!
I hear what the other reviewers were saying. The film is not without flaw. But I found it to be a breath of fresh air in a horror genre so filled with lifeless characters and flat simple stories. The third act was exciting, and, for me, original and interesting. I really latched into what the characters were going through, especially the lead male character, Justin. I found the acting to be way above average for these types of films and the shot choices were terrific! Also... The Music was incredible! How has nobody mentioned the music? I use to be a composer so that's where my ear goes - but I thought it was great. The film was fun, funny, entertaining and unique. It was NOT a boiler plate stupid horror flick - it was a low budget, character driven science fiction horror film. I really enjoyed it!!!
The Good German (2006)
Sorry Soderbergh
Sorry Soderbergh, I see what you were doing and WHAT you're doing is cool. But the product isn't there. The performances are bad (with the exception of Blanchett who is always worth watching), the script doesn't really work, the story isn't compelling, and the world that is set up in the film isn't consistent.
He spoke after the screening and he's a charismatic and compelling guy. I really have a lot of respect for him and the body of work he has accumulated. He always directs, shoots, and edits his films ... and in this instance, that could be part of the problem. I know that when I'm doing everything ... something has to suffer and in this case, it's the performances.
As a filmmaker myself, it's hard not to be a fan of his. I'm watching the Limey as I write this ... but he's experimental and this experiment didn't work (IMHO).
That said ... the film did look great and the use of shots and camera movement was flawless ... but that wasn't enough to engage me. Oh well.
Blood Diamond (2006)
Good Not Great
I liked it ... I liked it a lot. Leo has grown up. The scenes between the native Africans work extremely well. The relationship between Leo and Jennifer doesn't jump off the screen but it works. The movie is exciting, emotional, and provocative. The problem I have with the film is one of logic. There are a few times I just didn't believe the characters would be doing what the script was calling for them to do. If those moments had been removed ... or if Zwick had shown those moments from the POV of the characters so we could understand WHY they were doing what they were doing, it would be a better film. I gave it an 8 ... but really it's a 7.5.
The other thing is that this film is ABOUT something. It's about an important political issue that has often been overlooked. That is what is IMPORTANT about this film. The subject matter. I hope that this film will create an awareness about the horrible plight in Africa and the Western exploitation of their resources and their people.