Where Pigeons Go to Die (1990)

Just a good movie. [1] It's a sentimental drama dealing with family values and relationships between three (actually four) generations. It deeply touches your heart and raises a lot of emotions. Make sure you have some Kleenex nearby before watching it.

Considering the topic of family values, Avalon (1990) comes to mind. This is the second time I mention Avalon on this blog. The first one was in the review for Son of Rambow (2007). Should I write a separate review for Avalon? Well, it's a rather long tale depicting the decay of family values over the 20th century. And that's all about it. Enjoy reading two reviews in just one blog entry. :)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100923/
My vote: 8 of 10

[1] Reviews that start with a phrase "Just a good movie" are going to be short, simply stating that I like this particular title. They are not really reviews, just a few notes describing what is this movie about or why I think it's worth watching.

PS. No, this blog isn't dead at all. Stay tuned. :)

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1938)

From now on I officially love Technicolor! That's amazing to watch a color movie shot in 1930's. Especially one that depicts a yet earlier period. Looks like the life back then hasn't really been as black&white as we usually see it on photographs from that time, huh? :)


According to the Wikipedia article this technology has started to go mainstream in 1920's, so there's a lot of color movies from the beginning of the XX century. Although many are lost, those remaining are surely must watch!


And regarding the story itself, let's not forget what Mark Twain said about his book:

Although my book is intended mainly for the entertainment of boys and girls, I hope it will not be shunned by men and women on that account, for part of my plan has been to try to pleasantly remind adults of what they once were themselves, and of how they felt and thought and talked, and what queer enterprises they sometimes engaged in.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0029844/
My vote: 7 of 10

It Started in Naples (1960)

I guess it's getting a bit dark here. Let's have some fun with this bright story for a while. Unlike modern comedies, this movie doesn't contain any toilet humor. A tiny teaser:

- It's 2 o'clock in the morning and all this loud music around. How are people supposed to sleep here?
- ??? Together!

:) Well, yeah, the sex theme is present in almost all American movies, but in 50's it wasn't as explicitly expressed as it is today.

There's plenty of jokes there. Just look at what 8 yo Nando does to take another cigarette puff. He'll even cry on his aunt's shoulder while smoking her cigarette! What a smart kid! :)

If one wants to relax and have fun, this movie is worth watching.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0053957/
My vote: 6 of 10

The Sunset Limited (2011)

One room. Two men. And a 90-minute dialog between the two on the topic of belief in God. Why? Because one of them has just attempted to commit a suicide, and the other one saved his life.

So what is life? Why to live one? How to live one? Should the Bible be a guide, or does the history of the world teach us a lesson? What's pain and what's happiness? What's darkness, and what is light, and after all, is there this light all around us actually? These are the questions discussed.

The movie is a dramatically acted philosophical dispute on a controversial topic. I enjoyed watching it, and can see why people often rate it as 10 of 10 (see IMDB rating stats for this title.) However, I think it's a bit overrated.

The problem is that the movie lacks any innovation on the topic discussed. I couldn't find absolutely no new arguments from both arguing parties. There's no unexpected turns in the discussion. After having watched it, you may find yourself being even more convinced in what you believe (or don't believe if that's the case.) Yet it's still interesting to watch and re-think some of your views and principles.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1510938/
My vote: 7 of 10

The Client (1994)

I've watched this movie before, maybe even twice. Yet I've decided to watch it once again. The plot is very common for crime dramas: criminals, cops, and guiltless people in jeopardy. Gosh, haven't we seen that cocktail on our screens million times already?

But what's exciting about this particular movie is the acting. Especially that of Brad Renfro who plays Mark. It was a surprise for me to find out that this was his first role ever, and he hadn't had any acting experience before. And that when he was just 11 yo! Some time ago I've also watched The Cure (1995) with him, and he was acting superb there as well. It's a pity he passed away so young in 2008 because of "accidental" heroin overdose...

A funny thing is the southern accent of some actors. Like saying "hai" for "hi", or "whai" for "why". Also, the movie contains a number of funny scenes, like Reggie's mum: "Nice to meet you, Mark!" after he shuts the car's door and kicks it, and then walks away, or Mark: "Well, I'll just go get hit by a truck and come back."

As I mentioned the movie itself is quite common and doesn't carry any deep thoughts. The plot is full of unrealistic coincidences and situations. I would generally rate it as 5 of 10, but the acting makes it all!

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109446/
My vote: 7 of 10