Christine A's Reviews

I can't imagine NOT giving this film a 5-star rating...

The quality of the some of the video images isn't stellar, I'll give you that; but, it doesn't take long to see past that and it's precisely what makes this documentary enormously stirring and personal. After all, you get to see Jean Dominique live and captured on video with his characteristic fire and enthusiasm - the whole way through. If anything, there were times I wasn't 100% convinced musical accompaniment was necessary, but it wasn't so distracting as to ruin my experience of the film.

Additionally, the film is directed by Jonathan Demme who, according to the liner notes, first met and filmed Dominique in 1986. Because I'm not accustomed to thinking of Demme as a documentary film maker, I found this intriguing. The film is a must see for anyone - but may be especially enlightening for the youngest Boomers (Gen Xers) who were aware something was going on in Haiti in the '80s/'90s but didn't understand it then and now have the perspective, sense of humanity and experience needed to fully appreciate the efforts of Jean Dominique, his wife, their radio crew and the Haitians they spoke to/for.

Thanks, SwapaDVD, for turning me on to it!
Review Date: 1/27/2013

What I love about this film (esp. for someone like me, a Gen Xer too young to have seen it originally but who watched the TV version and remembers hearing bits and pieces about the film) is its unexpected quirkiness. There are some laugh-out-loud moments and goofy scenes, but that's not to say they're contrived or that the film isn't serious.

Add in Scorsese's smart, cinematic approach and fantastic performances by Ellen Burstyn, Kris Kristofferson, Alfred Lutter III (the actor who originally played Alice's kid, Tommy), Vic Tabec (sp?), Diane Ladd, Harvey Kietel, a young Jodie Foster and others and this is too good to pass up. In fact, for me, the cast turns it into something like David Lynch's "Blue Velvet" for a late '60s/early '70s audience.

This version includes interviews with Burstyn and Kristofferson; they truly add to the film's interest and reveal how the film was conceived, how Scorsese was brought into the mix and what each of the actors experienced in their own lives (at the same time) which helped them develop their characters in ways which felt true to life.

If you're interested in '70s cinema, you have to see "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" at least once.
Review Date: 1/28/2013

ONE OF THE BEST FILMS EVER!!!! Bette Davis, et al., are amazing in this classic Mankiewicz vehicle. The dialogue. The pacing. The suspense. The clothing. The yet-unknown celeb cameo (no spoilers here). I bet I could recite most of this film in my sleep. I watch it at least once per year and never, ever tire of it. Man, woman, animal, vegetable ... if you somehow don't like it? I'd be amazed. I just swapped my DVD version since I replaced it with the Criterion Blu-Ray edition. Can't wait to tear into all the extra features!!!
Review Date: 12/2/2019

This film was released in 1980 and, well, you can't get away from that fact. But, that's what makes it particularly interesting and "charming" (used loosely in the context of this film). One of the highlights, incidentally, is the exposure to a young-ish Bob Balaban who's since gone on to play a supporting role in more films than can be mentioned here. I knew he looked familiar, but it took me a while to figure out who he was. That alone made it worth watching.

If you're an intellectual, like to think you're an intellectual and/or have a penchant for '80s films which harken back a bit more to the '70s with regard to dialogue, costuming and special effects, you'll love "Altered States" on film. William Hurt looks great, too - both clothed and naked - which makes this Sci-Fi flick that much more entertaining. The extra features were fun (esp. the TV spots).


Review Date: 9/25/2013

I'm not one who likes slapstick, college-humor or gratuitous comedies...

That said, I didn't expect much from "Bad Teacher". But, I like to push myself to give just about anything a try. In the end, there were a lot of scenes and dialogue in "Bad Teacher" which were unique and funny enough to win me over. I mean, it's basically a Vince Vaughn/Owen Wilson type flick fronted by a woman who doesn't take herself too seriously. And, what could be better than that? And the cast is great. No, it's not the best movie out there but it does have a few "Something About Mary" type moments. And Cameron Diaz does a GREAT job playing a slacker teacher with an agenda and the drive to pursue it relentlessly, in a number of hilarious ways. She's also supported by a full cast of co-stars who are entertaining and hilarious in their own right.

I say see it once. If you hate it, you hate it. At least you'll get an "A" for effort!
Review Date: 5/23/2013

This movie got a ton of exceptionally favorable reviews, which intrigued me. And, though it takes a while to see what's so special about it, I'm glad I saw it and would recommend it as viewing for anyone interested in contemporary foreign films (it's French), movies about the underworld and/or flicks that focus on the protagonist's own struggles, desires and realizations. The cast was well-selected and the story line is fairly unique. In fact, it could easily have devolved into a trite love-triumphs-over-evil tale - but, thankfully, never did.
Review Date: 11/30/2015

BEAUTIFUL PLANET: France & Italy | Spain & Portugal

This series is useful but inappropriately named and marketed. What you'll see falls within the category of Educational or Historical Travel much more than Arts & Culture related material. On the whole, no sweeping vistas--as the packaging suggests. What's advertised is NOT reflected on the DVDs ... hence the low rating(s).

The right audience, though, will find it interesting.

Are you a History buff? Drama bug? Traveler who craves backstory? Whether one or all three, you're the target audience here. Mill Creek Entertaiment (MN) is the distributor vs., say, Nat Geo or Rick Steeves/PBS. As Oldies.com notes, Mill Creek is "... a leading provider of value-priced DVD and Blu-ray features and compilations" including series like this one.

FILE UNDER: Educational/Historical Travel Documentary
Review Date: 1/8/2018

BEAUTIFUL PLANET: France & Italy | Spain & Portugal

This series is useful but inappropriately named and marketed. What you'll see falls within the category of Educational or Historical Travel much more than Arts & Culture related material. On the whole, no sweeping vistas--as the packaging suggests. What's advertised is NOT reflected on the DVDs ... hence the low rating(s).

The right audience, though, will find it interesting.

Are you a History buff? Drama bug? Traveler who craves backstory? Whether one or all three, you're the target audience here. Mill Creek Entertaiment (MN) is the distributor vs., say, Nat Geo or Rick Steeves/PBS. As Oldies.com notes, Mill Creek is "... a leading provider of value-priced DVD and Blu-ray features and compilations" including series like this one.

FILE UNDER: Educational/Historical Travel Documentary
Review Date: 1/8/2018

Do you adore France? Fashion? Musicals?

If so, you're in luck! "Beloved" (2011) begins by introducing us to its main character during her youth--when she worked in a chic shoe store in Paris. The clothes, the shoes and the street scenes are all quite lovely. The ensuing story will interest those who have a decidedly romantic bent, want to immerse themselves in a bit of 1960s/1970s culture and enjoy love stories set in a Musical format. Give it a whirl IF ... the Musical or Romance genres (+ fashion) appeal to you. If not, I just don't think it'll be as much fun for you.
Review Date: 1/8/2018

Now I know where the 6 Degrees Theory (Kevin Bacon) originated ... or, at least, it'd seem that way. Tons of cameos round out this Christopher Guest title with a few expected faces/names and a few entirely unexpected. The protagonist goes from unknown film student to big name in the movie biz only to wonder what it was all for. Some of the most memorable performances are played by Teri Hatcher, Michael McKean and Kevin Bacon--but the film's worth seeing for a number of other entertaining moments. Martin Short, while difficult to watch on purpose, is great too.
Review Date: 3/17/2019

This is not a film I would recommend for its visual appeal...though it has that.

There are many compelling and poetic shots and images in this film. But, its not a cinematic wonder. Its beauty lies in the fact that its lens and narrative are focused on the grittier side of life as it plays out for child beggars along Nepal's Baghmati River. Their day-to-day survival requires them to do things which some (ex: those with deep religious ties?) might find ghastly or uncivilized. I didn't have a moral or ethical problem with the material and found it moving, to say the least. I appreciate the fact that it's not slick and that the children had a definitive starring role.

If I had to compare "Children of God" to any other film I guess I would say "Born Into Brothels" minus the outsider involvement/intervention aspect. If you're not into hyper-realist documentary films which take you face-to-face with real, live, hard-luck situations that are grim, gritty, sad and/or potentially disturbing this is not the film for you. If, on the other hand, you ARE then this film will give you a first-hand, slice-of-life look at how the underprivileged get by and it will probably affect you deeply.

I feel about it the way I feel about "It Was a Wonderful Life". Maybe because of its life-on-the-streets subject matter? In any case, I love it and can't help but carry those kids in my heart now. And, if nothing else, that makes it all worthwhile.
Review Date: 1/30/2013

I'm not sure why prior reviewers gave this series such a low score, but I think it's because this is more of a documentary/reality-style series that delves into the personal side of circus performing more than it does the actual performance. That said, there's lots of great footage of various acts which is both impressive and fun to watch. This is NOT the kind of series you'd watch with your kids, but it IS the kind of series you can enjoy watching if you're someone who likes to take a peek behind the scenes. The Special Features amount to >1 hr. of character profiles, behind-the-scenes footage and more.
Review Date: 4/26/2014

This digitally-remastered version of Adolph Zukor's "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" starring John Barrymore includes various features like:

_ Animated Menus
_ Direct Scene Access
_ Original Movie Trailer
_ Movie Lobby Poster (still image)
_ & a Trivia Quiz

That last bit, the quiz, is fun either answered before or after watching - though you'll do better if you take it afterward. The "right" and "wrong" icons alone are worth getting a few right AND a few wrong. This film also offers viewers a great, nearly 1.5 hours of silent film entertainment and reason to ponder just what makes us good/evil, giving/selfish, etc.
Review Date: 5/12/2013

"EATING RAOUL" is a great '70s title to own. The story focuses on a financially struggling couple's life at home in their L.A. apt. Their dream? Move out of the city and open a restaurant. The delivery's deftly deadpan, the use of swinging '70s culture as a backdrop is genius and the cast of characters includes faces you'll instantly recognize (Ed Bagley, Jr.) and others you won't. It has that amazing '70s look to it, as well, making it a time capsule that sucks you in and reminds you what life was like back then: The shoes, the cars, the clothes. Still, it's a farse or fantasy of sorts. Or is it???
Review Date: 1/8/2018

Sean Connery? Magnificent. Julia Ormond? Entirely believable. Richard Gere? Originally released in 1995, it's held up well (esp. alongside contemporaries like "Highlander"). Playful, if not overacting a bit in some scenes. Still? "First Knight" always strikes at the heart and stirs up excitement with its stolen love scenes, thrilling battles and well-placed humor. The 2006 version runs approx. 134 minutes and features both Spanish and Korean subtitle options. Languages include English, Spanish and French in Dolby Surround sound.
Review Date: 5/12/2013

The Five Star Collection of "The French Connection" is impressive in its packaging, features and digitally remastered sound and picture quality - esp. for a set of DVDs.

DISC ONE: offers scene-specific commentary by Gene Hackman (great in this film) and Roy Scheider, who you might remember from "Jaws." I will say, I wish his role in this film was more significant. But that's a personal preference. It also features director's commentary, original theatrical trailer, anamorphic widescreen delivery (1.85:1), 5.1 Dolby surround and English/Spanish subtitles.

DISC TWO: offers a behind-the-scenes, "Making the Connection: The Untold Story," documentary. It also offers a BBC documentary called "Poughkeepsie Shuffle," a documentary of deleted scenes, a still gallery and trailers for the original and sequel.

All in all? This is a robust package than anyone who likes cops and robbers, chase, action, adventure, intrigue, '70s and/or suspense films should appreciate. I know I did!
Review Date: 3/18/2015

Every time I re-watch "Highlander" I'm reminded how much there is to love about it! Part Sci-Fi Fantasy, part Romance, part History lesson, part schlock (esp. the closing scene; does it get any cheesier?) - it's all in there. I laughed out loud as many times as I had to turn away in response to gruesome or otherwise spine-tingling scenes.

The background music, admittedly, is the one thing that definitely dates the film. But, the fact that Freddy Mercury's voice (in one of his last major performances with Queen before he died, I'd guess) lives on actually reinforces the notion that "THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE!" - like Mercury, a one-of-a-kind performer who lives on in the hearts of all who love him and anyone who sees this film - with its custom-made, rock-legend score.

ABOUT THE CAST & THEIR PERFORMANCES: Sean Connery? Dashing and amusing. Clancy Brown? Deliciously sinister. Roxanne Hart? Believable. Christopher Lambert? Better than anyone's ever given him credit for. This is HIS role. He looks the part, acts the part, could never be replaced in this role and IS "Highlander" from start to finish.
Review Date: 2/11/2013

This is a funny, funny, funny film featuring Jerry Lewis in the time of "Cinderfella" and other notable movies. If you're not a Jerry Lewis fan, in general, it may be worth giving a try. If you don't like his brand of humor at all, this will miss the mark. If, however, you're not typically drawn to gag or slapstick humor but like the look and feel of early 1960s fare, you'll probably get a kick out of this movie (stylistically).

For perspective, I'm typically drawn to foreign, documentary and alt/indy films and avoid goofy comedy. But, this is one I'd consider keeping in my permanent collection - along w/"Cinderfella", which is kind of similar in how Lewis plays it and is also one of my favorite movies of all time (possibly 'cause I watched it a lot as a kid). The special, behind-the-scenes/making-of features on this disc are a nice bonus, too!
Review Date: 5/14/2013

Those who like M. Night Shyamalan will enjoy this film, which is an adaptation of a bedtime story he created for his children. Paul Giamatti is spot on in his quirky roel (fairly predictable to expect such casting of Giamatti, right? He does it so well). A cameo by M. Night Shyamalan himself makes watching this enjoyable in itself. This particular version is the WIDESCREEN EDITION and comes with Special Features like a 6-Part Documentary, Add'l. Scenes, Gag Reel, Auditions and more. A MUST HAVE FOR M. NIGHT SHYAMALAN FANS!!!
Review Date: 10/4/2012

Taking time to explore the Special Features on this particular 2-disc set of "Last Chance Harvey" makes it clear that this film was made as organically as possible - and I think the results make for a story that is genuine, believable and exceptionally well played out by both Hoffman and Thompson.

In particular, I'm happy to see them together again AND was happy to hear them acknowledge the chemistry apparent in their prior film together: "Stranger Than Fiction". You could almost say that, in a sense, this is THEIR nod to "Stranger Than Fiction" - one that's not so strange or unusual or out of sync with the way modern romances unfold.

Unlike "When Harry Met Sally" or something along those lines, this film isn't riddled with upbeat one-liners you'll remember for eternity. What it IS filled with, however, is heart, humanity and the reminder that each of us is entitled to crave and find love and acceptance (in whatever forms they take) at any old age.

Hoffman and Thompson are fantastic together - and their improvisations are spot on.
Review Date: 1/28/2013

This movie's worth watching if only for the young Henry Fonda and young Dom Ameche sightings - not to mention the clothes, jewelry and antics modeled by Alice Faye, who's definitely a likeable actress. I liked, too, that it was set in turn-of-the-century (19th Century!) New York, London, etc. While there's a disclaimer early on that the transfer was done to the best possible quality given the condition of the original film, you barely notice any defects at all. Definitely worth a viewing!!!
Review Date: 11/19/2013

Everytime I watch this film I find another reason to love it. First off, it brings back memories of watching it on TV (as a kid). Secondly, the sheer # of oddball celebrities who lend their voices and likenesses to it is just mind-blowing. Lastly? It's totally ridiculous, but in the best possible way. And it's even romantic, if you can believe that. If you've never seen "Mad Monster Party" you're missing out. Try to see it at least once. It's basically the goth/grunge/alternative answer to "Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer."
Review Date: 4/26/2016

Amir Bar-Lev (the director and interviewer in this film) did a great job of working with the family profiled in this film. I've seen it multiple times and always wish I could take a more assertive approach in getting to the bottom of this who-created-the-art mystery that is this documentary. That's not to slight Amir. He sustained a long-term relationship with a cast of characters who - except for the two children in the film - aren't terribly forthcoming and seem insistent on hiding or downplaying something. I suppose I'd rate the film higher if there were more clear resolution to the "problem". But, overall, it's definitely worth seeing and makes you want to shake a few people by their shoulders and tell them to cut the crap. For that, alone, it's compelling.
Review Date: 11/29/2012

As someone else had remarked, this isn't a terribly long film. However...

"off the Charts" is personal and interesting enough to make a memorable impact and feel substantial and satisfying to the viewer. The Special Features add significantly to the package's overall length (132 min. TOTAL) and add another dimension to the material by giving the viewer access to full demos, performances not included in the film, etc.

In some ways, I'd compare this to "American Movie" - I guess because of the offbeat and unique nature of the song-poem writers who are featured here, as well as the talent who demos the tunes and other characters who've built this industry and helped it survive as an art form.

It's well made, has enough twists/turns to be surprising and is comical and thoughtful in all the right places.

Review Date: 2/11/2013

If you like "Close Encounters ..." and "Pan's Labyrinth," you'll love "The Orphanage."

I stumbled upon this film a few years back. I'd seen the starring actress in other films and love the unusual approach Juan Antonio Bayona and his tight circle of director friends take to Spanish-language film making. In fact, upon seeing it I purchased it. However, I'd lent my copy to a friend. Never to get it back. Which is why I reordered it on SwapADVD - a film lover's treasure trove!!!

I truly believe that, if you like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" for its otherworldly and metaphysical overtures and "Pan's Labyrinth" for its blend of fantastic and realistic events, you will love "The Orphanage." I'm not a fan of slasher, horror or even creepy movies. This is a great alternative. It's suspenseful, intriguing and just goofy enough to make you jump, believe and laugh at the right moments.

Needless to say, I won't be lending out THIS copy any time soon.

My friends can get their own!!!
Review Date: 6/5/2015

One part bittersweet, one part heart-warming and entirely entertaining, "Pauline & Paulette" is among my favorite, go-to foreign films of all time. Admittedly, if subtitles make you squeamish, it's not for you. The only negative I can think of is that it's not as timeless as some films can be.

But, the dress/clothing and '80s/'90s style sets actually remind me of how it feels to watch cheeky BBC sketch comedies. And I love those, so I have no problem overlooking those kinds of details. Anyone with a family member who's a little kooky, limited developmentally or just plain endearing will probably take a true liking to this film.

There are not much in the way of DVD extras here, but the film itself is the real attraction: Evoking feelings of empathy, disbelief and delight.
Review Date: 5/23/2013

This is a great film for anyone who's a fan of B movies, quirky Woody Allen style comedy and anyone of the cast and crew.

Michael Caine, Natalie Wood and several others are cast against type in this funny (no, not rip-roaring hilarious, but genuinely funny) and unique twist on Film Noir in a DVD package that's full of special features which includes a nice tutorial on the Noir genre and insights from the director, film historians and lesser-infamous-but-equally-if-not-more-knowledgeable film critics.

My favorite line? "Get lost!" I won't post the comeback or tell you when to expect it. But I will say that that's one genuinely unique and hilarious scene.
Review Date: 7/24/2014

Bill Maher is entertaining, as usual, in "Religulous" and uses the film as a vehicle to probe into various means of celebrating religion of various kinds in various locales worldwide. Some of it's hilarious. Some of it's revealing, but more in the sense that it tells you something about Maher's character - and offers a glimpse at him in a more relaxed state than you'd see him in on his TV show. I enjoyed it, though I don't know that I'd need to watch it again and again and again to be left with the message Maher is sending.
Review Date: 3/18/2015

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE "The September Issue"...even after repeat viewings!

It could have something to do with the fact that - despite being dirt poor and having few to little prospects of infiltrating the fashion industry as a kid/teen - I used to believe that when I grew up I'd be the go-to Editor of a glossy fashion mag myself.

But, no - there's way more to this fashion "fairytale".

This fantastic glimpse into the world of VOGUE (I, myself, am a life-long devotee of ELLE) and the internal and external players who support its production is humorous, telling and superbly executed. I'm particularly fond of the non-veiled tension between the mag's Editor-in-Chief and its visionary, highly likeable and candid Art Director.

I don't care whether you consider couture torture or can't get enough of catwalks. This is a MUST-SEE documentary that I can't praise highly enough.

- Christine G. Adamo
a.k.a. Christine at WriteReviseEdit
Review Date: 8/3/2012

This widescreen edition of "Sex and the City" (the original movie, not the disappointing sequel) is great for viewing alone or with friends. The widescreen format brings the action and activity into clearer view and makes this set of four fantastic friends (Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda) that much easier to relate to, get close to and empathize with. In general, I love this film. There are some cheesy moments, sure. But not nearly as many in SATC2 (blek!) and the ones which exist are nicely balanced out by the raw, believable heartache and sadness it also incorporates. Not much in the way of special features beyond a commentary, but - again - the widescreen format provides a great experience.
Review Date: 2/11/2015

The Two-Disc Special Edition of "Sex and the City: The Movie - Extended Cut" offers a slew of extra features, including scenes which do NOT appear in the original release.

Do they add to the storyline? Yes. Do the make the film better? I think that's something you need to determine for yourself based on how well those additions serve to enhance or detract from various scenes.

A digital copy of the film is also included on Disc #2, for anyone who wants to load it to their laptop, etc. The packaging is snazzy, communicates the extra features well and would be a nice addition to any collection that celebrates SATC in general.
Review Date: 3/18/2015

I'm stunned anyone would give this movie a "2-star rating" (see earlier review).

True: This is not your typical movie, but that's part of what makes it so unique and entertaining. I especially love that the story allows two adults in the vicinity of the Baby Boom generation to behave so romantically and initiate a surprisingly steamy relationship on screen. How much should I reveal? Dare I say it was unexpectedly sexy, then heartwarming and then heartbreaking. 'Nuff said.

More than that, it was refreshing given all of the tween, teen and young adult celebs we're confronted with on a daily basis and who mark the Hollywood landscape. This is a Swedish film which shows off and plays up a relatively modern Swedish lifestyle, interpersonal dynamics, landscapes/environment, etc. If you don't like subtitles, skip this film. If you welcome them (like I do), you should enjoy it.

I like the film so much I'll hold onto it a bit longer before swapping it.


Review Date: 2/12/2014

This movie isn't for the faint of heart. It details, dramatizes and even captures real footage shot at nearly every stage of Jonathan Caouette's development from childhood on through adulthood. For me, the most heart-wrenching bits are those in which the director (Caouette) turns the camera on himself and lets us see what it's like to struggle to understand how and why his mother has and continues to suffer with mental illness either brought about or enhanced by her own experiences, the choices her own parents made and suggestions that came from outside the family. This is an emotional journey - one you're not likely to forget for a very long time.
Review Date: 11/30/2015

Think 1970s' HEAVEN CAN WAIT meets something akin to AMERICAN BEAUTY. If you lean toward being a nerd, geek and/or romantic, you'll find plenty to like about this film. If instead you grow impatient with awkward and highly intellectual characters (a la TV's BIG BANG THEORY), you might wanna skip this one. I found it to be cute, charming and unique. But I am a bit of a geek! Note, too, that this film leans Indy and features plenty of actors I've never seen before alongside some well-known names and faces. I found that exciting.
Review Date: 5/27/2025

I noticed that someone else had given this film a 1-of-5 star rating ... and was stunned.

Anyone who enjoys international, documentary and art-based films would love it. I know I did. In fact, its message and images have stuck with me since I first saw it years ago. Essentially, it's about a formerly poor immigrant turned successful artist who now lives and works in the U.S. He embarks on a journey to Brasil (a.k.a. Brazil) where he undertakes an installation (of sorts) that involves constructing works of art out of heaps of garbage.

He enlists the help of indigent garbage pickers/slum dwellers to carry out this task and the art is created using the same "waste" items (bottles, bags, etc.) these people are paid a pittance to forage for on a regular basis. I think his approach is compassionate, inclusive and inspiring for both himself, his crew and the locals who work with him ... helping them literally picture themselves in a brand new way - one that I believe helps restore their dignity and sparks undertones of hope.
Review Date: 1/21/2013

There's no way to not like "When Harry Met Sally" ... this particular edition?

I enjoyed the Special Features, though I don't know that they're compelling enough to incite repeat viewing. Rob Reiner is NOT the best interview subject, in that he doesn't have a ton of charisma or anything (sorry, Rob) - but, just being able to watch and hear him banter back and forth with Nora Ephron (a great, departed talent) makes it worthwhile.

The duo dishes about what they were thinking, how this idea germinated, how long it took to actually get started on it and what went on in the process. It's all pretty enlightening. Input from a years-after-WHMS Billy Crystal is also interesting. I loved hearing about the ad libbing and improvisation on the set, in particular. I wish more of the cast had participated. That, in part, accounts for my less than "5" rating. That and, as mentioned earlier, the not-so-super-charged quality of Reiner's communication style.

Definitely worth viewing, that's for sure!
Review Date: 2/13/2013

Wanna see how Scorsese got his start?
Or get a peek at his mom pre-"Good Fellas" era?
His debut, "Who's That Knocking at My Door," lets you do both!

Despite some wonky camera work or grainy imagery here and there, it's a must-see for fans of Scorsese and/or Keitel. More than that it offers a unique glimpse at 1960s social norms, including attitudes toward pre-marital "sex" (see it to learn why I put it in quotes) which are astonishing by modern standards. The extra features, while they don't feature Scorsese or Keitel (outside of still images), are informative and even humorous.

Overall, this film can seem goofy or otherwise confusing at times. Alternately, there are some artfully filmed shots and witty banter. The bonus material makes it clear that nothing about the film is as off-the-cuff as it seems. That alone makes it impressive, given the finished product. Maybe I'm just waxing nostalgic: My grew up in this part of NYC and had friends who easily fit the descriptions of the characters portrayed.

In any case, I stand by my earlier statement. it's a must-see for Scorsese fans.
Review Date: 12/29/2017

As far as music-oriented documentaries go, "Young@Heart" is pretty damn cool! There's the hard-driving 50-something music coach who, deep down, is a softy whose bark is bigger than his bite. There are the chorus members or participants themselves: Their individual concerns, concern for one another, family dynamics, etc. And then there are the audiences in front of which they sing, who appreciate the effort and energy the entire group puts into delivering punk/rock classics with gusto. This film is fun, touching and unique.
Review Date: 9/25/2013

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