price:$2.46
DVD)
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Well Done) 『Well done movie. Obviously one that the Catholic church would not approve of. High quality acting, suspenseful, well-done but not overly done special effects.』
(Stigmata Non Grata...) 『When STIGMATA first came out, I avoided it. I figured that it would be another hokey, religious / supernatural mega-dud like END OF DAYS. Years later, I finally watched it, and was pleasantly surprised. Patricia Arquette is both tough and vulnerable as Frankie Paige. She is bewildered by what's happening to her, without losing her modern cynicism. Gabriel Byrne (Gothic, Spider) makes a believable, world-weary Father Kiernan, who goes from skeptic to believer in due course. Jonathan Pryce is subtly eeevil as the pompous Cardinal Houseman. If you like religious horror / thrillers that aren't (overly) dependent on cgi or insulting to your intelligence, then STIGMATA should be a hit... P.S.- I prefer the director's darker, more powerful alternate ending over the "happily ever after" hollywood bilge...』
(excellent) 『http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/6305718954/ref=cm_cr_rev_prod_title I recieved my Stigmata Dvd very promptly and it was in the condition it was expected to be in.』
(A Good Buy) 『Stigmata was always one of those movies that I loved and never got around to buy and was very happy, because Amazon was the place to get Stigmata a good price and very good condition. Thank you once again as always』
(SPLIT A PIECE OF WOOD, AND I AM THERE... LIFT UP A STONE, AND YOU WILL FIND ME...) 『I saw this film years ago when it was first released and enjoyed it. I saw it again recently and enjoyed it even more the second time around. I had forgotten that the film was based upon the Gospel according to St. Thomas, a gospel that is not recognized by the Roman Catholic Church and is not included in the New Testament. The Gospel according to Thomas is not about the life of Jesus. Rather, it is about the things that Jesus said. There are one hundred and fourteen such sayings that have been translated. One of those sayings is at the heart of this film. "Split a piece of wood, and I am there. Lift up a stone and you will find me."
The film is about an investigative Jesuit priest, a young atheist who suffers from the stigmata, and a conspiracy within the Roman Catholic Church to suppress a certain gospel, as if fears its destruction should that gospel become public. The investigative priest, Father Andrew Kiernan, is played with appropriate gravity by Gabriel Byrne, a serious man with a faith issue, as he is not just a man of the cloth, he is also a scientist with a degree in chemistry. He travels around the world investigating alleged miracles. The young atheist suffering from Stigmata is Frankie, a twenty-three year old hairdresser played with great sincerity by a young and nubile Patricia Arquette. Cardinal Houseman, the politically savvy church official seeking to suppress the perfidy of the Church, is played with zealous determination by Jonathan Pryce.
I loved everything about this film. While there are elements of horror intertwined with its underlying intellectual theme, these two odd bedfellows merely make the film more interesting. I certainly did not find the juxtaposition of these two elements incompatible. The special effects do not overwhelm the film, but, instead, serve to enhance the experience of the viewer in understanding the film's themes and message. The film also boasts a wonderful soundtrack that meshes perfectly with the film and adds to its drama. Moreover, the film boasts stellar performances by its entire cast.
This is a very entertaining film that is well worth having in one's personal film collection. I loved this film!』 『A lost soul has just received the wounds of Christ and a shocking message that will alter history. Stunning performances from Patricia Arquette (True Romance), Gabriel Byrne (The Usual Suspects) and Jonathan Pryce (Ronin) and a cutting edge score by Billy Corgan of The SmashingPumpkins and Elia Cmiral make Stigmata a visual and visceral feast (Entertainment Today). Frankie Paige (Arquette) has absolutely no faith in God. All of that changes when she suddenly begins to suffer the Stigmatathe living wounds of the crucified Christ. Frankie's miraculous bleeding comes to the attention of the Vatican's top investigator, Father Kiernan (Byrne). But when Cardinal Houseman (Pryce), discovers that Frankie is actually channeling an extraordinary and provocative message that could destroy the Church, he's convinced that she - and the force possessing hermust be forever silenced. Determined to stop this deadly conspiracy, Kiernan risks his faithandhis lifeto save her and the message that will change the destiny of mankind forever!』 『Gabriel Byrne plays Father Kiernan, a young Jesuit priest whose degree in chemistry makes him a sort of priest/detective as he investigates weeping Marys and the like around the world. Meanwhile, Frankie (Patricia Arquette), a rave-generation Pittsburgher, is afflicted with the stigmata--holes that appear in her wrists, resembling the wounds of Christ. The young woman's symptoms filter back to the Vatican and Father Kiernan is assigned to the case. The priest is puzzled by Frankie's atheism; usually the stigmata only appear on the devout (hence the age-old controversy of miracles vs. hysteria). Other manifestations appear on Frankie, and the priest's cardinal (Jonathan Pryce) is brought in, leading to political maneuvering within the Church hierarchy. The film owes a large and obvious debt toThe Exorcist(at one point, Frankie's bed scoots across the room and she levitates into a crucifix position), but to term it anExorcistrip-off would be to shortchangeStigmata. The premise and screenplay are more cerebral than in the l973 film, and the source of the phenomenon is coming from a completely different place.
Unfortunately, amidStigmata's high-octane editing and slick technique, the chills ofThe Exorcistaren't there, giving the movie a sort of identity crisis: horror movie or intellectual thriller? Several elements of the film challenge basic tenets of the Catholic faith, hence the brief furor that erupted at the time of the film's release; if nothing else, the internal workings of the Church are shown in a very unflattering light indeed. Byrne excels as the skeptical priest, as does Arquette as the tortured young woman. All told,Stigmatais a rather uneven effort, but one with a thought-provoking combination of theology and thrills served up in a thoroughly modern, stylish package. Fans of TV'sAlly McBealwill recognize Portia DeRossi in a supporting role.--Jerry Renshaw』
price:$3.49
Warner Home Video
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Awesome movie!) 『This movie was great and I wasn't disappointed in it at all. It's definitely a different kind of movie so it's refreshing. I bought it as a gift for my boyfriend and he loved it.』
("It's not always like it is in the books." Blu ray review.) 『Based on the HELLBLAZER comics, John Constantine (played like a robot by Keanu Reeves) is a demon hunter that can see demons and angels. His responsibility is to keep them in line if they go beyond what is allowed in tipping the balance between good and evil. The film revolves around detective Angela Dodson (the gorgeous Rachel Weisz) and her twin that commits suicide. She seeks the help of Constantine to determine what external forces may have played a role in her death. As they unravel the mystery they learn that her sister's death was only to draw Angela to play a part in a diabolical scheme. The concept and story are great. The supporting roles are filled by great actors like Shia LeBeouf, Tilda Swinton and check out who plays Lucifer! Keanu just kills it. He was great in the Matrix when asked to play like a robot because that's about all he is good at, lately. In Constantine, it just doesn't work. Viggo Mortensen or Guy Pearce would have made this a 4 star movie, but although the story and effects are good...Keanu brings it down a notch.
NOW FOR MY BLU-RAY THOUGHTS: Excellent picture and sound. All special features from DVD are here. FINAL VERDICT: UPGRADE WORTHY!』
(The best vesion of a entertaining film) 『I really enjoy this movie and I bought the blu-ray when the price dropped to $8.99. I already had the wide screen and the picture quality is improved. Is it worth it? For me it was.』
(Hey cynics: worth a look) 『Putting aside the cheap Keanu jokes, this is his best film of this past decade. The Matrix? Pfft. Yes, I've seen The Lake House, and Something's Gotta Give, and A Scanner Darkly (...actually, I never finished it), and none of them boast a Keanu performance that can be honestly called "essential". He's good, but passable.
Surprising, then, that a superhero movie based on an iconic, blond, ENGLISH demonslayer would end up one of Reeves' definitive roles. He nails the jerkiness and been-there-done-that attitude of the character pefectly. I would have thought James Marsters would be a better fit. Who knew?
Anyone who has seen End of Days will see similarities here. Between the two, I prefer Constantine, if only because the female lead (Rachael Weisz) isn't annoyingly weak in this one. Granted, Angela still finds herself in peril, but at least she isn't a jittery mess, unlike Robin Tunney who had to be dragged place to place by Arnold for the whole movie. On the demerit side, I'm dismayed to see a young(er) Shia LeBeouf playing the role of Constantine's plucky sidekick. "Relax", I tell myself, "It's not his fault for ruining your childhood. He's just as actor; and a fairly good one. Blame Michael Bay. Oh yeah, and George Lucas." Luckily, Shia doesn't get many scenes.
The film wouldn't be half the success it is without the dual performances of Tilda Swinton and Peter Stormare as the archangel Gabriel and Satan, respectively. Stormare is supposed to be a surprise, but his version of Satan is already fairly well-known, even if the movie itself is underrated. It just proves that with awesome actors, even such well-trodden ground as a biblical action thriller can be spun in an original direction.』
(Constantine) 『This is one of those movies that people either loved or they hated. Well I'm one of them that loved it. The storyline could have been a bit blasphemous for certain christians, but the acting and computer graphics fits perfectly with the time. The supporting cast also helped keep the story interesting. You can expect a bit of "the exorcist" in the film. I enjoyed this movie and think outside the box.
』 『Based on the DC Comics/Vertigo Hellblazer graphic novels and written by Kevin Brodbin and Frank Cappello, Constantine tells the story of John Constantine (Keanu Reeves), a man who has literally been to hell and back. When he teams up with skeptical policewoman Angela Dodson (Rachel Weisz) to solve the mysterious suicide of her twin sister, their investigation takes them through the world of demons and angels that exists just beneath the landscape of contemporary Los Angeles. Caught in a catastrophic series of otherworldly events, the two become inextricably involved and seek to find their own peace at whatever cost.
DVD Features: Additional Scenes:18 minutes of additional scenes Alternate endings
』 『In the grand scheme of theological thrillers,Constantineaspires for the greatness ofThe Exorcistbut ranks more closely withThe Order. Based on the popularHellblazercomic book series, and directed with nary a shred of intelligence by music video veteran Francis Lawrence, it's basicallyThe Matrixwith swarming demons instead of swarming machines. Keanu Reeves slightly modifies hisMatrixpersona as John Constantine, who roams the dark-spots of Los Angeles looking for good-evil, angel-devil half-breeds to ensure that "the balance" between God and Satan is properly maintained. An ancient artifact and the detective twin of a woman who committed evil-induced suicide (Rachel Weisz) factor into the plot, which is taken so seriously that you'll want to stand up and cheer when Tilda Swinton swoops down as the cross-dressing angel Gabriel and turns this silliness into the camp-fest it really is. The digital effects are way cool (dig those hellspawn with the tops of their heads lopped off!), so if you don't mind a juvenile lesson in pseudo-Catholic salvation,Constantineis just the movie for you!--Jeff Shannon』
price:$14.94
Sony Pictures
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Zombie Fun!!) 『First do not let the name fool you, yes there are strippers and some nudity, but no more than in the average horror flick. This movie if HILARIOUS! The political satire is utterly priceless and I thought the cast was lots of fun. You KNOW they had a ball doing this, it shows. This has quickly become one of my favorite Zombie/Comedy classics. Sure, there are some continuity problems, but so what? It is so much fun who cares! Take a chance on this little known gem, you won't be disappointed!!』
(Horror and humor) 『I admit I had very low expectations from Zombie Strippers. I have recently seen a lot of bad attempts at horror-comedy, such as the atrocious Splatter Beach, and I expected no better from Zombie Strippers. To my surprise, it was funny, and gory, and had decent acting (far above par for the genre), and good writing, and the special effects were inventive and well done. In fact, the only thing that prevents it from being classified along with such classics like Evil Dead and Re-Animator is that there is no single standout performance (like Bruce Campbell or Jeffrey Combs). But really, that's a faint criticism. Zombie Strippers is probably the best campy horror movie I have seen in quite a while, and the best horror comedy I have seen in a very, very long time.』
(Great Zombie Babes Kick Butt!) 『Grade: A. Naked zombie babes and gallons of blood and gore, all done with humor and panache. Very entertaining and funny, and the battle of the top zombie dancers has to be seen to be believed. Stars Jenna Jameson (who helped teach the other dancers and gamely put on full body zombie make-up), Robert Englund, and Roxy Saint. Zombies; zombie munching; great gore; lots of female nudity; and lots of fantastic sicko stuff. 』
(Beautiful Girls Wasted) 『Lap-dancers are turned into zombies with mortal consequences for attending the illegal venue: the more blood-the more males like it!
This film is not my cap of tea surely. 』
(Zombie classic) 『What can you say about a movie populated with truly blood-thirsty zombies, strippers that turn into zombies and one of them is Jenna Jameson? Don't expect a lot of sparkling dialog but do expect lots of innovative ways to kill zombies !
Certainly not a movie for the kids, the squeamish or the prudish this film is not quite on par with "Planet Terror" but it was almost as much fun as watching Rose McGowan splattering zombies with her M-16/Grenade launching artifical leg. Overall I was quite surprised, the special effects were top notch "Zombie-Rama" quality.
So if you are a fan of camp, 70's style, exploitation, blood and guts fests with the obligatory gratuitous nudity (and who isn't LOL) you won't be disappointed. The take off on the ping pong ball scene from "The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert" alone makes this disc worth the price of admission.』 『The world's most famous adult film star, Jenna Jameson stars in this thrilling zombie adventure. In the not too distant future a secret government re-animation chemo-virus gets released into conservative Sartre, Nebraska and lands in an underground strip club. As the virus begins to spread, turning the strippers into "Super Zombie Strippers" the girls struggle with whether or not to conform to the new "fad" even if it means there's no turning back. They're not just strippers...They're Zombie Strippers !!』 『Get yourself a snappy title and a couple of marquee names (however disreputable) and you might just snag your no-budget movie a national release--asZombie Stripperscolorfully proves. The names in question belong to porn star Jenna Jameson and Freddie Krueger himself, Robert Englund, both of whom look quite comfortable in this sleazy milieu. As the title suggests (well, "suggests" might be a mild word), there has been an outbreak of the undead in a strip club, with strippers actually improving their onstage antics after they've become zombies. (Given the number of implants on display, it's a wonder the zombies didn't keel over from silicone poisoning.) Englund is the proprietor of the place, Jameson is a star dancer, and a couple of actresses in the "nice girl" roles don't have to take their tops off, although almost everybody else does. Writer-director Jay Lee fills the movie with political gags and a bunch of philosophy references (Jameson reads Nietzsche, the locale is Sartre, Nebraska), all of which play like a lame attempt to distinguish his movie as something other than a puerile horror-comedy. Only thing is, when you try to disguise the fact that you've made a puerile horror-comedy, it kind of takes the oomph out of both the horror and the comedy. The political jibes are about as feeble as those inSouthland Tales, but at leastZombie Strippersis shorter. Shot on video, it looks atrocious, but perhaps that doesn't matter very much.--Robert Horton』
price:$2.00
ABC (TV)
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Don't be Afraid of the Dark - Too dark) 『I remember this movie freaking me out when I first saw it many years ago and I know that when revisiting stuff from childhood as an adult, things aren't always as scary or as good as one remembers. Having said that, I felt that even though it still had some of that creepiness that I remember, this copy was so dark that you really couldn't see the creepy crawlers unless the camera closed in on them and in some scenes could not see Kim Darby at all. That took away from the enjoyment.』
(Great movie, if half-hearted DVD release) 『This movie does hold up as long as you remember it for what it was, a creepy, gothic, B-movie. It is very atmospheric (got to love the creatures angrily whispering that they HATE "her"), and it doesn't try to do too much (nothing too over-the-top, flashy or violent, which i hope the remake holds true to.) A very unassuming, pleasant surprise of a horror flick. If you don't expect too much from it (a good rule of thumb for any movie), and you are into this genre, you should enjoy the film.』
(Warner Archive is dark, grainy and loaded with scratches!) 『Just a warning to avoid the Warner Archive, or at least manage your expectations.
It's a dreadful copy---dark, grainy and loaded with scratches.
I had copied a video to DVD years ago and wanted to "upgrade" since my new BluRay tends to make video-to-DVD transfers a little "watery" -- and the transfer was never that great to begin with.
But I was really disappointed with this version. Because it takes place a lot in the dark or in shadows, it looks very "blotchy" and the blues all "swarm together" in a muddy mess.
If you have BluRay, you can see it attempting to "upgrade" so much of the original film has a cleaner video quality. But even the outdoor, sunlite scenes are terribly grainy around the edges.
The sound is fine but overall, a real disappointment. I know they didn't even "try" to clean up the film, but it looks so piss-poor you think that someone would have noticed and made and attempt to upgrade it a little.
And for those of us who remember it fondly as kids, it simply doesn't hold up at ALL when you see it as an adult, so it's best to skip and just hang on to your memories.』
(Pretty good made-for-TV horror movie from the 70's) 『I remember "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark" from the 70's (when i was a kid). I made the 'mistake' (in the not-being-able-to-sleep plus being afraid to go down in my basement) of watching it when i was around 5, and it made such an impression on me (notably, the little green gremlin-like creatures) that at the age of 40, i popped for a copy of this on DVD to relive my childhood freakout, when i saw it was available. I was not disappointed - this is a pretty good made-for-TV film, and achieves a bit of suspense as Sally tries to convince everyone that she's not crazy and is not hallucinating seeing the creatures. There are a couple of minor plot holes (which i won't get into here, at the risk of spoiling stuff from the film) but overall, if you're into 70's horror, this is a pretty good film, if a bit tame by today's standards. The creatures are pretty cool looking. This film would probably be a good candidate for a remake today, with better effects and a bit of a more macabre director's vision.
This is part of the Warner Archives series - made-to-order DVD's in DVD-R form. There are really no extras (other than plugs for other titles in the WB Archives), and the movie chapter stops are in 10 minute increments (not necessarily by scenes) but the transfer itself is actually relatively clean (couple of scratches/etc) and exceeded my expectations, as i hadn't bought any titles in the WB Archives prior to this one.』
(Poor Quality - DO Be Afraid to Purchase.) 『We were so excited to get this movie in the mail. With great anticipation we popped it into the VCR to show our children 12 and 15 an important piece of our childhood. The quality was so horrible that you could barely see the image. It was dark and washed out. Any scenes that were in low light (most of the movie) were not visible. I understand that this is not going to be high quality tape and certainly not hd!! This was just not watchable. It almost seems like it was a tape...of a tape....of a tape. There was no label on it and the case was just a blank black one. Almost seems a little shady. There is no way this was a video made by any studio. It said that it was in "great condition". Hardly. Buyer Beware!』 『An old house...a mysterious locked room... a terrifying secret. Elements that make a horror movie memorably chilling get a taut, spooky reworking in Don't Be Afraid of the Dark. Kim Darby (True Grit) and Jim Hutton (The Green Berets) star as Sally and Alex, young marrieds who inherit a crumbling mansion. Despite warnings to leave well enough alone in her new home, Sally unlocks the mysterious room, opens a bricked-up fireplace - and unleashes a horde of hideous, whispering, murdering mini-demons only she can see and hear. Alex thinks she's imagining things. We know she isn't. And we know Sally should be very, very afraid of the dark!
This product is manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply.
price:$3.49
Warner Home Video
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (The hunger in you is a hunger in me.) 『Beautiful, intelligent and seductive, Miriam and John Blaylock, outside looking in, appear to have it all. That is, until their bloodlust locks onto you, and from them, there is nothing but horror and death.
As the companion to the ageless Miriam, John is but a mere mimic, who soon finds out the truth of the blessing and curse that is Miriam's gift, and her false promises of eternal youth and eternity with her. As he begins to rapidly age, Miriam realizes the eventuality of his demise and begins to seek a new companion, in the form of a doctor specializing in aging disorders, and in essence, attempting to unlock the very thing that Miriam possesses: immortality.
Dr. Sarah Roberts is approached by John, who desperately seeks her aid in reversing the aging process but is quickly dismissed--until she sees him literally age before her eyes. But it's too late, John leaves, frustrated and terrified. When Sarah locates the Blaylocks in their Manhattan home, she is instead greeted by the sensuous Miriam, and ensnared. And in her newfound freedom and loneliness, it is Sarah who Miriam chooses.
The Hunger, based on Whitley Strieber's book (and will now be reading), is a goth-punk but intriguing take on the vampire lore, that could be very sentimental, but more sexual than romantic, and mostly unapologetic, focusing on the base and animalistic ritual of prey and predator. The familiar facets of vampirism, and some which are missing (such as sleeping during the day and aversion to sunlight, etc), are all there but with a grittier and more sinister pall, and a jaw-dropping sexual encounter between the captivated Sarah and the gorgeous Miriam.
Tony Scott's debut film makes for an atmospheric and luscious dark delight, with a very moody, stylish and artsy flare, but with well done horror. To set the mood, is a stunningly rich and wonderful score, with punk-rock to start off with, but with mostly symphonic music throughout, that is both melancholy and haunting, intoxicating and sublime. It's the kind of score that really makes this film doubly unique and also a must buy.
That said, while I always enjoy watching this film, in its entirety, it is a confusing, choppily put together and jumbled telling. Pacing is not very smooth, and the transition between scenes at times harsh, going from quiet to loud, bright to dark, abstract imagery, or moves too quickly and you're not quite sure what you just saw. Clearly, the scenes were put together more for effect, over telling a compelling story. While the idea of love, loneliness, aging and immortality is the underlying theme of the story, Scott does little to actually question the existence of Miriam, her callousness and love for her human companions and damning them to a horrible end, or why she seeks Sarah as her next victim, besides letting the audience assume the obvious. Scott uses the backdrop of the vampire myth as his story and to explain the nature of these characters, which I found that somewhat lazy and careless of Scott. Rather than incorporating a stronger story line besides Miriam's hunt for a new companion, it merely displays and idolizes the eroticism and allure of the vampire--which is why I'm going to read the book. Then again, it is obvious early on that this is purely a sensory film.
The extras are a must. Stills from the production, cast pictures and behind the scenes, while not necessarily brilliant, are fun. What you should really go for is the audio commentary by Tony Scott and Susan Sarandon, which was actually insightful, both are articulate and interesting commentators.
Catherine Deneuve as Miriam is the perfect seductress, infusing a timeless worldly beauty and eloquence to a character that really deserves nothing but due justice. Surprisingly, David Bowie's role as John was both subtle, chilling, and unexpected. Both are believable as modern day vampires and effortless as mainstream vampires in the new age. What surprised me was Susan Sarandon. While she did an excellent job, pitted against two Europeans, the American in her at times clashed. While she is at times brash and ineloquent, both John and Miriam are always so coolly aloof but passionate. Or maybe that was the point. It was hard to imagine that someone like Miriam, who is that otherwordly and could have anyone she wanted, would pick such a stubborn and independent intellectual, while her choice of John is totally believable. Despite that, and the problems with this adaptation, I always find myself picking it out every once in a while, during an evening when I need some vampire horror and blood, but with a twist. This cult classic from the 1980s is one that every vampire and horror lover should watch.』
(VAMPIRE MOVIE WITH BOWIE) 『MY HUSBAND SAW THIS MOVIE WAY BACK WHEN, SO I BOUGHT IT FOR HIM. IT'S A VAMPIRE MOVIE, VERY FREAKY. SUSAN SARANDON ESPECIALLY. OK MOVIE CAME IN GREAT CONDITION AND IN THE TIME IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE HERE.』
(Hypnotic textures, worth a serious look) 『A subtly, deeply enticing, luxurious, elegant, often bloody yet not excessively violent, infinitely intriguing, mildly shocking film. What a mouthful, but it is all that and more. I just saw it today and REALLY enjoyed it. David Bowie, despite his acting limitations, is reserved and ice cold, also very charismatic and compelling on film, and does great work here. Catherine Deneuve is casually phenomenal, so soulful, effortlessly projecting a somewhat forlorn, aristocratic sensuality. What a beautiful woman. Susan Sarandon is of course a perfectly attractive sparring partner in this extremely high arena of sensual projection. The interiors and textures of this film are interesting in so many ways. Tony Scott was an early and obvious great talent, and not surprisingly this is a fine complement to Ridley's Blade Runner, and/or Someone to Watch Over Me. I just love the elegant textures and moral quandaries of all these films. It should be noted that the actual kisses between Ms. Sarandon and Ms. Deneuve are rather chaste! I suppose they weren't overly keen on making out, perhaps, so it's not the flashpoint, at least not for me. I think you will absolutely sense incredible smoke and multiple fires in the atmospheres, soft conversations and mannerisms that precede any eventful embrace, though. Good heavens, it's sexy! That speaks greatly to the charismatic intelligence of both the actors and the director, I believe. The nature of the story is not thorougly satisfying--I saw no good reason for the relationship NOT to develop, but that's just wish projecting onto someone else's baby. I suppose I root for ALL vampires. They could use a bit more solidarity, couldn't they? Anyway, I highly recommend this for cinephiles and of course vampire completists, who I'm sure already know plenty about it. Extreme bonus points for seeing a very serious Dan Hedaya with hair (love that guy), and an opening sequence with Peter Murphy of Bauhaus, strangely gesticulating to 'Bela Lugois's Dead.' What a film!』
(The Hunger, no just style over substance) 『If creating the feeling of death is vacous, then everything else must be vacuos as well. The style is the substance.
The death slowly picking away at these people.
The sense of isolation as time passes.
The desperate need to survive, even at the expense of youth.
The sexual ownership, to escape the nothingness.
This film is not the most profound ever, but it does have points to make and certainly is not vacous.
Try to view it like music, like Barber's Adagio for strings. it is the feeling, the atmosphere, the picture that is the substance.
this is what the modern film should be like, and I don't care what anyone says, Tony Scott you are a genius, even if you sold out (but considering that even now they still knock this film as insignificant, I don't blame you).
This is perhaps the most important modern film (anything I guess made after 1977), it's use of technique, as in image (the killing of dead space is as good as Von Sterneberg), it's use of montage (the start is a sublime sequence, one that Eisenstein would have loved), it's use of sound is startling (the synthesised score is perfectly melded to the image, and the repeated scream at the end I will never forget).』
(The Hunger) 『I received this item very quickly - with no problems. I have discovered from the person I gave it to - that it was a different version than what was seen on TV - but the opposite of what you would think - on TV more was included than on this dvd - which really surprised me. If there are different versions out there, I was not aware, since I was searching for this movie to give to someone who really liked it. But this person was still very surprised and liked the gift.』 『No Description Available. Genre:Horror Rating:R Release Date:5-OCT-2004 Media Type:DVD』 『Catherine Deneuve and David Bowie are rich, beautiful, and oh-so chic as denizens of the night. Dressed in sleek outfits and stylish sunglasses, they haunt rock&roll clubs on the prowl for young blood, whom they bring home to their impossibly luxurious mansion for a late-night snack. Being a vampire never looked more sexy, but there's a price: Bowie starts to age so fast he wrinkles up in the waiting room of a doctor's (Susan Sarandon) office. The agelessly elegant Deneuve, evoking Delphine Seyrig's Countess Bathory fromDaughters of Darkness, is perfectly cast as a millenniums-old bloodsucker who seeks a new mate in Sarandon and seduces her in a sunlight-bathed afternoon of smooth, silky sex. Tony Scott's (Ridley's brother) directorial debut, adapted from the Whitley Strieber novel, revises the vampire myth with Egyptian inflections and removes all references to garlic and crosses and wooden stakes--these bloodsuckers can even walk around in the daylight--but the ties between blood and sex are as strong as ever. Scott's background as an award-winning commercial director is evident in every richly textured frame and his densely interwoven editing, but the moody atmosphere comes at the expense of dramatic urgency. At times the film is so languid it becomes mired in its hazy, impeccably designed visual style. In its own way,The Hungeris the perfect vampire film for the '80s, all poise and attitude and surface beauty. Sarandon talks candidly about the film in the documentaryThe Celluloid Closet.--Sean Axmaker』
price:$9.95
Sony Pictures
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Catholic+pagan=breathtaking) 『way back when, in school, one of my professors proclaimed this Williams's best play. i agree with him wholeheartedly (with "Streetcar" up there, with its very similar theme/themes, ie. human frailties and those who prey on their fellow human creatures). its over-the-top gothic horror and mix of Catholic and pagan imagery is near-breathtaking. and it's worth noting that a life-size model/statue of St. Sebastian, the "beautiful boy martyr," is prominently displayed in its main character's studio/study/abatoir. Sebastian Veneble, though we only see him in memory flashbacks, is the main character of this film: without him, there would be no "Suddenly, Last Summer." i sincerely want to avoid offending anyone, Catholic or otherwise, but this movie plays like a Catholic Mass conceived and written by H. P. Lovecraft (and it must be Lovecraft: his florid, even at times epicene, Victorian style is mandatory). it's Transubstantiation/Eucharist/Communion with a horrifying twist. to my knowledge there has been no opera written based on the play, though it strikes me as being near-perfect for an intense one-act opera. if nothing else, "Suddenly, Last Summer" is a movie lover's only chance to see Hepburn and Taylor in the same film. this and "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" should be mandatory for anyone who's dismissed Elizabeth Taylor as a serious actress.』
(Complex film with great performances.) 『Suddenly, Last Summer is about many things, and the one thing it deals with is the nature of God,who appears to be like human and non human nature, violent and staggeringly cruel.
Elizabeth Taylor stands out in this film, and her final monolgue is shattering , one of her favorite portrayals; and Katharine Hepburn is dynamite as Sebastian Venable's mother, one of her very best performancres.
See this unforgettable film about God, and how we are all trapped by a savage, devouring creation, all synthesized for us suddenly, last summer.』
(DON'T WATCH THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) 『This isn't one of those movies that it takes maturity in age to appreciate and understand. No one, no matter what age is ready for such a gruesome and downright disgusting film that depicts cannibalism. I am a huge fan of Elizabeth Taylor, and when I picked up this movie, I envisioned a sweet beach romance due to the lighthearted-sounding and very misleading title: Suddenly, Last Summer. I couldn't have been more wrong. People are only attracted to this movie because they find it is different (obviously) and therefore feel they should embrace it because of its controversiality. I guess that's what sells these days-the more horrific, the better. Doesn't any one care about morals? Why should people pay to see the lowest animal instinct come out in humans? Leave that in the jungles of Africa. Don't you think we have improved enough as a society since then that we can reflect a better side of life?』
(A rich meal for the eyes!) 『I watch this film so much it seems like I have no other dvds and I also am afraid that I've might scratched up by now because the constant viewings.The point is I am insane over anything having to do with Tennesee Williams. I love films about rich southern families dark secrets or any rich families dark secrets,insanty,closeted gay men,.Suddenly Last Summer is like a fatting meal you its bad for you but its sooooooooo good!』
(great film) 『as you would expect with a cast like this is a great film good story cathrin hepburn on top form and taylor is great ,a must see ,brian』 『TENNESSEE WILLIAMS YARN ABOUT A WEALTHY SOUTHERN MATRIACH, HERSUPPOSEDLY MAD NIECE AND A NEUROSURGEON. SPECIAL FEATURES: SCENESELECTIONS, SUBTITLES IN ENGLIHS, SPANISH, PORTUGUESE, CHINESE, KOREAN AND THAI, PHOTO MONTAGE, VINTAGE ADVERTISING, TALENT FILES, THEATRICAL TRAILERS, PRODUCTION NOTES AND MUCH MORE.』 『This black-and-white film adaptation of Tennessee Williams's Southern gothic play is perhaps more famous for the rumored off-screen shenanigans of its stars than for its over-the-top repressed sexuality (only Williams could pull off that paradox, and pull it off he does). Supposedly, stars Katharine Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor battled for screen time; Hepburn warred very publicly with director Joseph Mankiewicz; and a postaccident Montgomery Clift relied heavily on painkillers and support from friend Taylor during the grueling shoot. Even this, however, cannot top the events of the film itself, revolving around the unseen playboy Sebastian and his mysterious death, which has something to do with young boys, a decadent European vacation, and Taylor in a provocative wet, white bathing suit. To give away the plot would spoil the fun, but suffice it to say that what Taylor saw was so horrible it drove her nuts, and Sebastian's mother (Hepburn) wants her to have a lobotomy in order to keep it from coming out; Clift is brought in to do the procedure. It's all a hoot and a holler, but as played by the two leading ladies (both of whom nabbed Oscar nominations), it's also compelling, chilling, and utterly gothic. Taylor gives a fierce performance, as the climaxing monologue that reveals Sebastian's "secret" rests entirely on her shoulders, and Hepburn plays brilliantly against type as Sebastian's manipulating, overbearing mother. Only Clift, saddled with a dreary character in charge of plot exposition, fails to deliver. Adapted by Gore Vidal.--Mark Englehart』
price:$2.95
Sony Pictures
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (great job Johnny) 『i really enjoyed this movie. the twist in it is like WHOA!. a must see.』
(Secret Window... The secret is you have seen this before.) 『Secret Window: 5 out of 10: I am not going to critique Johnny Depp. He is fine in this movie. And I certainly do not want the great wrath of woman, of various ages, down upon my head. Johnny Depp is a thespian God. He can do no wrong. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory never existed... (God he was awful in that.)
Depps performance is the most entertaining thing is Secret Window. In fact with the exception of a wonderfully drawn Timothy Hutton in a supporting role, it is the only entertaining thing in the movie. The small cast is rounded out by Maria Bello (A 41 year old butterface that plays Depps, cuckolding, bitchy, soon to be ex-wife) and the usually dependable John Turturro who is a disaster.
This is a Stephen King adaption about a writer going over the edge. (If you saw The Dark Half which also starred Timothy Hutton this will definitely feel like familiar ground). The plot is a familiar train wreck. Depp is a writer going through a nasty divorce and suffering from writers block. There is a knock at the door and Turturro is at the door. With a southern drawl and an Amish tailor Turturro claims that Depp stole his story and has to make it right.
Ah plagiarism, that old plot twist standby which many a great horror novel is based on. (Or maybe not). Turtorros character quickly becomes a nasty bit of work as he kills Depps beloved dog with a screwdriver. (This isnt really a plot spoiler. This is a Steven King adaptation, there are no kids in it to kill and the beloved dog might as well have been dressed in a metaphorical red shirt from the first scene.)
This is where the movie officially lost me. Turturro is about as threatening as a Joe Pesci romantic comedy and if his character (named Shooter) killed one of my family members the next time he entered my property he would be renamed shot.
But the movie cannot let Depp kill Shooter... cause of a super secret plot twist so lame and so obvious that its no wonder plagiarism was at the forefront of the writers mind. To add insult to injury the movie actually feels it needs to drop hints at this shocking plot twist apparently under the assumption a portion of the audience sniffs glue for a living and didnt figure it out within 10 minutes of the opening credits.
The only real surprise in the entire film is the strange Children of the Corn references (Turtorros character seems to be clearly channeling Malachi and the last scene is torn right from that mid-eighties classic.)
Perhaps the film is meant to be homage to the fine Children of the Corn series... No greater faint praise could I imagine damning with.
』
(Secret Window -- one of King's best short stories) 『Johnny Depp is superb as the lead character 'Mort' in one of Stephen King's best short stories. Unusual for King that it is not set in the state of Maine, rather, rural New York state. The ending is fantastic -- you really don't see it coming. Would definitely recommend this DVD -- especialy for Stephen King fans.』
(Unsuspenseful, crappy ending but nice performance from Depp) 『I like Stephen King's writing quite a bit. He knows what is truly scary: gutter-dwelling clowns, children, zombie pets, and menacing machines. Unfortunately, when King's stories make the leap from the page to the screen, they often lose their psychological suspense. Perhaps it's because the tension of King's stories come from what takes place within the protagonist's mind rather than external forces.
Another difficulty is that King can write amazingly tense stories with endings that go flat. For example, IT was truly scary...creepy clowns...scary sounds coming from the sewer...but it turns out to be a giant spider? Not so scary.
"Secret Window" is another attempt to bring one of King's novellas to the screen, but it falls flat because it lacks suspense and has a poor ending you can see from a mile away. I'm not a particular fan of Johnny Depp; however, it's Depp's skill as an actor that saves this movie from being a waste of time.
』
(stunning look and acting) 『i love this "fantastic" movie. this is the 1st role i found confirmation in depp's beauty and talent. depp's subtle yet profound presence is felt in each scene. subtlety is not often found in king's stories. fast paced yet drawn out, this movie is underrated and is or certainly will be a cult classic. in this movie, i find johnny depp gorgeous, stylish and sublime.
joannaha.com』 『Troubled and recently divorced writer, Mort Rainey, is stalked by a deranged man claiming that he has stollen his original story. Genre:Horror Rating:PG13 Release Date:7-JUN-2005 Media Type:DVD』 『Johnny Depp gets high off another acting challenge in this tricky adaptation of a Stephen King yarn. Although the mood is too sinister to allow for the mischief of hisPirates of the Caribbeanturn, Depp still manages to embroider his role here with plenty of quirky business. He plays a writer, depressed and nearly divorced, who's stuck in an isolated cabin (shades ofThe Shining) when a stranger (John Turturro) arrives, accusing him of plagiarism. Writer-director David Koepp (Stir of Echoes) does his best to make the rickety material compelling--he gets the maximum out of the cabin set, for instance--but the problems inherent in the King story eventually win out. The climactic scenes are particularly unpleasant, especially in contrast to the cleverness of Depp's performance. A Philip Glass score adds class, but this one ultimately feels like a disappointment.--Robert Horton』
price:$9.50
Lions Gate
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Guard your heart.) 『Had the original on DvD..bought the remake in 3D on blu ray..couldn't pass this up..now if I could only find Sleepaway Camp that would be awesome.』
(Complete at last!) 『I've always been a fan of "My Bloody Valentine". For some reason, as far back as I can remember into the "slasher craze" of the early eighties, this one stands out in my mind, even more so than "Friday the 13th" (although "Halloween" still holds top spot in my memory).
I've owned this on VHS, and the original DVD release of it, and have always loved it, despite it's setbacks; to now have it with all the cut gore scenes restored is amazing! Sure, it's obvious that the restored footage isn't quite the same level of quality as the rest of the film, but what would one expect? It's still almost like watching a brand-new film, rediscovering a classic of the genre.
Others can say what they will; I suppose only a certain branch of hardcore slasher fans love this film (and I'm one of them, t'would seem); most seem to relegate it to a "rip-off" status of the more mainstream films of the day.
For my money, "My Bloody Valentine" has one of the best (and most gruesome) origin stories for it's antagonist, one of the most believable love triangles in all of slasher-dom, and very real and likable characters. The film is paced well, the acting ranges from adequate to very good, and the story is well-written and engrossing, albeit somewhat formulaic, it branches enough in very interesting fashion to stand on it's own merit.
If you haven't seen the film, by all means at least give it the chance of a rental; if you've seen it but not the un-cut version, you owe it to yourself to see the full vision.
』
(Do not buy!) 『The transfer is great, however, the film on blu ray is missing the scene where the girl gets thrown up on the water post after the clothes start falling down. I wonder if all copies miss this scene.』
(Back in time with a great Blu-ray!) 『Wow, this is a really great looking BD. For those who don't know: After many years this movie can now be seen in it's original unrated Version, sure you will notice that the new integrated scenes are not of the same quality, but what the hell, now they are here and this moves "My Bloody Valentine" from a sleeping pill to a really good slasher movie. Important for those in Europe: The BD is codefree, so come and get some of this great 80's feeling again.』
(A bloody good time!) 『More than just a guilty pleasure -- this one's actually good!
By the time 1981 had rolled around, the horror genre had gained much momentum with holiday-themed slasher flicks such as "Halloween" and "Friday The 13th." Never ones to shy away from a good cash-cow, Paramount (the same company to bring you "Friday The 13th") hired George Mihalka to direct the Valentine's Day themed "My Bloody Valentine." Pre-dating much of the camp and excess of the 80's, "My Bloody Valentine" is a pretty innocent film in its own right, a glimpse into a time before the genre was completely saturated with masked killers and dumbed-down teenagers. It's simply a well-paced, well-oiled little horror movie. It's got a surprising amount of suspense, matched only by the outrageous and often over-the-top visual effects which -- thanks to a newly restored print of the film on DVD -- have finally seen the light of day.
With his film, Mihalka injects a good dosage of suspense, as well as some subtle stylishness. The grimy and grungy setting -- a dumpy mining town in Canada -- gives the film an unmistakably realistic look and feel, which only helps to drive home the authenticity. Sure, the film has its fair share of clichés; in fact, some of the dialogue and plot-points appear to be ripped straight out of the original "Friday The 13th." The story of a deranged killer returning home years later to exact his revenge on a town is hardly re-inventing the wheel. But when stacked up against its competition, "My Bloody Valentine" holds its own. It's one of the few films from the much maligned (and yet, enjoyable) era to actually hold up to today's standards (for the most part). Truth be told, even if you are viewing the heavily edited theatrical cut, the film works just as well without the heavy special effects, which is a testament to the overall quality of a film that was conceived, created and released in under half a year's time.
Sure, it's got its flaws, but nothing fatal. If you can stomach bad characters, even worse actors and a few clichés here and there, it's a pretty satisfying experience. At the very least, it pre-dates a lot of more successful films and has had a subtle influence on the genre as a whole. Fans of the genre should be aware of it not just as a fun way to kill time -- which it is -- but also as a perfect example of a slasher done right. With a recently released remake and a DVD that treats the film right, "My Bloody Valentine" is finally having its day in the sun. Even if you've "seen it all," you'll still have a good time with it. 』 『Twenty years after a Valentine’s Day tragedy, a small town prepares for its annual holiday dance. When a box of candy arrives containing an eerie warning and a blood-soaked heart, the townsfolk realize that this Valentine’s Day romance is as good as dead...and so are they!』 『This bizarre little horror movie is set in the mining town of Valentine Bluffs, which may be in Canada, though the odd, indeterminate accents of the cast are perhaps meant to suggest that it is truly a regionless everyland. In a cruel twist of fate, the Bluffers have not celebrated Valentine's Day in 20 years due to a terrible mining accident. This year is to be the first return of the Valentine's Dance--repeatedly described by adults as the biggest event of the year--but someone (orsomething?) is trying to put a stop to the fun by delivering heart-shaped candy boxes with real hearts in them. The dance is called off in the name of public safety, the young (well, youngish) people decide to hold a party inside the mine instead, and if you think we're getting out of this one without someone getting a pickax through the chest, you have no business watching slasher movies.--Ali Davis』
price:$13.00
Warner Home Video
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (GOOD LITTLE CLASSIC STORY TELLS ABOUT HALLOWEEN!!!!) 『This is like the film Crash for the horror crowd. Many characters are introduced and what characters they all are. This seemingly benign suburb turns eerie in the most charming fashion. All these characters and their stories come together in the end and I didn't find it hard to follow. Like Murder Party and its beginning montage of Halloween scenes, this one starts with an old infomercial about Halloween and trick or treating. Again, a charming way to begin this journey which turns out to be a love letter to Halloween, its traditions and horror films in general. There are many homage scenes yet this remains so thoroughly original that you find yourself enwrapped in this film that has a Creepshow/Tales From the Crypt feeling throughout, though not quite as campy as either one. Very well scripted with a sprinkle of humor and intelligence and a touch of irony that you don't see all that often in the horror genre. The direction isn't heavy handed in this piece and the look of this film is wonderful. Pumpkins and oranges with colors of fall, fog, white sheets mix and mingle with costumes and masks like a bag of Brachs Autumn Mix. The look of this just makes you warm and fuzzy and a little nostalgic. 』
(Trick 'r Treat) 『This movie hits the O-spot for Halloween lovers...it has 5 stars in all the categories. Creative in script, cinematography, and story line. Witty and Scary...lots of surprises. I feel sorry for you if you don't see this film...own it if you can. Don't miss the Special Feature animation by this director. This movie should have been in the theaters...much better than 3/4ths of movies on screen. MM』
(YUCK!) 『This movie was AWFUL! We only bought it because the previews showed some monster like scenes. It was a HUGE waste of money and time. I can't beleive a movie studio invested money on this movie. YUCK』
(A Halloween Gift) 『Thoroughly enjoyed movie - new classic to watch at Halloween. It arrived in a prompt and timely manner and was packaged very nicely. I would recommend this vendor as a reputable dealer with quality products.』
(its nothing special) 『I bought this dvd since it was on clearance at a FYI and its not that bad but not that good, it has the typical A movie camera with a B movie plot. The cinametography is not anything special. It didn't suck like the after dark horror fest movies. It has interesting plot twists and a good story line. Just some points of the movie start to stall out and you wish it would end a little sooner.
It does have a couple of known actors that help the movie along.』 『A creepy, darkly comic celebration of the scariest night of the year from producer BRYAN SINGER (director of X-Men and Superman Returns) and writer-director MICHAEL DOUGHERTY(co-scripter of X2 and Superman Returns). Trick’R Treat takes the Creepshow/Tales from the Crypt approach to nefarious new depths with four interwoven tales set on Halloween night: a high school principal (DYLAN BAKER) moonlights as a vicious serial killer; the quest of a young virgin (ANNA PAQUIN) for that special someone takes a gruesome turn; a group of teens carries out a cruel prank with disastrous consequences; and a cantankerous old man (BRIAN COX) battles a mischievous trick-or-treating demon.』
price:$8.49
Lions Gate
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (SAW...to experience or enjoy, that's the question.) 『I've only seen the first four...so far, honestly I didn't have an interest in this series until I started it, after months of people trying to get me to give it a shot. Let me say, color me impressed, this isn't your typical slasher series. Tobin Bell does a very creepy charecter, but he's a demented genius concerning what he thinks of in the series. This makes SCREAM look like Disney, I only have two complaints-the violence is very graphic, and doing 8 parts maybe overkill, no pun intended. However, I do look forward to the rest of them. A word of caution though, the images in these films will Not leave your mind easily, they could also cause nausea for anyone with a weak stomache, so if that's the case you may want to avoid them...like a disease.』
("Anyone Care To Play A Game?") 『When Saw became a hit out of nowhere in 2004 nobody expected it to become a successful franchise with numerous sequels. After all with its cheap 1.2 million budget you wouldn't think it would be possible for Saw to be the highest grossing franchise in horror history. Saw is labeled as horror but it's much more complex than that, there's a lot of psychology involved. For instance the main character John Kramer, known as Jigsaw because he removes a puzzle piece from the skin of his victims, is labeled as a serial killer but it goes deeper than that. Jigsaw chooses his victims very carefully, he selects persons because 1) they don't appreciate life or 2) they've done something really wrong. He is testing their will to live trough his "games" which are traps that often necessitate the victims to lose a body part or to go to extremes. You see, Jigsaw's goal is not to kill but rather to have the survivors enjoy life; it's a therapy he made. Saw puts photographer Adam and Doctor Lawrence in a disuse industrial bathroom both with their ankle chained, I the plot is now known enough that I don't need to explain what happens next.
Saw became a phenomenon and in my opinion is one the best horror movie of the 2000s decade; it gave the horror genre a boost and inspired other movies. Whatever people may think about some of the sequels, the original one remains a great film and I think it's one of the best horror movies made. 』
(A true horror classic...) 『I haven't seen this movie since it's release, but it's Halloween and I decided to do a Saw marathon. This movie is perhaps the best in the series. It has a lot of mystery and suspense. I think not knowing who Jigsaw is adds to the enjoyment. The later installments peeled the mystery away from him and it hurt the overall feel of the franchise. This movie does not have a lot of traps, they are not as elaborate as the traps in the sequel, but they are nicely used. There are so many twists and turns in this movie it's hard to even guess the next turn. I personally like Danny Glover and he does a great job. He should have been a more central character. The entire movie your trying to figure out who jigsaw is and that adds to the movie's greatness. As the series progressed the mystery element was taken away piece by piece. There are a lot of characters interacting around this "game" and that adds to the overall feel of desperation of this movie. This movie is a classic. The rest in the series decide to stand on gore instead of real suspense. This is a classic worth treasuring.』
(Great movie, disappointing Blu-ray) 『Saw is a great movie, all the sequels can be skipped. However the video quality on the Blu-ray is pretty disappointing. Very grainy, never once really looked like a high-def video even in bright scenes. But what makes it even worse is that there are no extras whatsoever. No commentary, no deleted scenes, nothing besides some previews. Sad,sad,sad. At least it was cheap.』
("I've Given Your Life a Purpose") 『Initially I will admit that I had no desire whatsoever to watch 'Saw'. My expectations were that it was going to be nothing more than just another one of those splatter films whose sole aim was to nauseate and repulse the audience.
Miracle of miracles, I happened to be wrong. While the gore element is there, for the most part it is an anticipated horror more than an actually realized one (at least by today's standards). For most of the film the terror and dread is psychological in nature and proceeds from an intelligent storyline and a thought-provoking script which dialogues with the audience on such concerns as the nature of life, death and what a person would be willing to do to retain ones life.
For me what really makes the film work is the protagonist nicknamed Jigsaw. While his actions are indeed horrific and grotesque his reasoning comes across as rational, his goals subtle and his attention to detail flawless. Well worth a watch, or two.
My Rating: -3 1/2 Stars-.
』 『Two strangers chained to pipes in an abandoned bathroom and separated solely by a corpse are tortured by a sadistic serial killer. Genre:Horror Rating:R Release Date:18-JUL-2006 Media Type:DVD』 『Adam (Leigh Whannell) wakes up in a dank room across from Dr. Lawrence Gordon (Cary Elwes) and the body of a guy who has blown his own brains out. Not a happy place, obviously, and it gets worse when both men realize that they've been chained and pitted against one another by an unseen but apparently omniscient maniac who's screwing with their psyches as payment for past sins. Director James Wan, who concocted this grimy distraction with screenwriter Whannell, has seenSevenand any number of other arty existential-psycho-cat-and-mouse thrillers, so he's providedSawwith a little flash, a little blood, and a lot of ways to distract you from the fact that it doesn't make a whole hell of a lot of sense. Wan and Whannell (who's not the most accomplished actor, either) pile on the plot twists, which after some initially novel ideas become increasingly juvenile. Elwes works hard but looks embarrassed, and the estimable Danny Glover suffers as the obsessed detective on the case. The denouement will probably surprise you, but it won't get you back the previous 98 minutes.--Steve Wiecking』