Joe's One-minute Movie Reviews!

Joe is now attending the Seattle Film Festival 2002. Here are his thoughts on the films so far. The rating system is a 1 to 4 shot latte with 4 being the best! A totally classic film will be a venti, no fat, no foam, vanilla latte, but this rating will be used sparingly for life changing films.

2002

13 Conversations About One Thing (USA)

From an artistic/technical point of view, this film is everything "Love in
the Time of Money" (reviewed below), could only hope to be. Somewhat
engaging collection of overlapping storylines. I give it points for a twist
at the ending which actually has one leaving the theater considering time
and place.
Random Observation: Amy Irving looks remarkably different from her "Carrie"
days (to me at least).
U.S. Release Date: June 2002
Rating: three shot latte

13 Moons (USA)

A rambling tale, as numerous strangers find themselves united in a common
cause. I was on the verge of walking out of this one, and then I liked
it... a lot, and then the ending came.... ho hum; it was just OK, nothing
fantastic.
Random Observation: Thank God I didn't walk out, since I walked out of
every other film today.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

24 Hour Party People (Great Britain)

Based on the Manchester music scene of the late 70's and early 80's. I
found it to be an irritating piece of shit, some good music though.
Random Observation: I never realized the origin of the name "Joy Division"
before.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: no shots

Britney Baby One More Time (USA)

Lighthearted mockumentary fictionalizing the true story of Robert Stephens
(appearing as himself) who won a back stage audience with Britney Spears
after winning a look-a-like contest, but was subsequently thrown out the
concert arena by her managers before the meeting took place. Robert
eventually did meet Britney; this film creates a road trip story of what
transpired along the way.
Random Observation: Mark Borchardt and Mike Schank, from "American Movie"
fame, appear as two of the leads and inspire many inside jokes.
U.S. Release Date: October 2002
Rating: two shot latte

Cab for Three (Chile)

A poor cabbie trying to scrap by in life and buy his own taxi is taken
hostage by two thugs who force him to participate in a robbery. Upon seeing
how easily they make money, the cabbie invites himself into their schemes;
and soon, the thugs insinuate themselves into the cabbie's life as well.
Random Observation: Not for those who get squeamish over dirty, nasty
teeth.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Cinemania (Germany)

Documentary set entirely in NYC about five "cinemaniacs" (individuals whose
lives revolve entirely around movies). Would have been better as a
mockumentary in the hands of Christopher Guest. The subjects veered from
going for the cheap laugh to trying way too hard to be funny with lots of
dead time in between.
Random Observation: I'm betting that the subjects were in fact "acting" or
were heavily directed in their actions.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: one shot latte

The Cockettes (USA)

The Cockettes were a group of drag queens, hippies, and drug users, whose
members ran the gamut of straight, gay, male, female, or gender-bender and
all shared one thing: a love for dressing up as a life style. This
engaging documentary combines interviews with surviving members, fans, and
witnesses, archival footage, and still photographs to chronical the troupe's
evolution as the future members become friends in 1960's San Francisco
through their first staged performance, formation of a commune, going
professional, gaining national recognition, playing New York, and ultimately
falling apart in 1972 as many members succumbed to drug overdoses.
The manner in which these people chose to live life at the edge of their
imaginations is truly inspiring....as is the fact that this little slice of
pop culture history has been preserved in this film.
Random Observation: I found myself wondering if the Cockettes inspired
Rocky Horror among other pop culture gender blurred entertainment of the
past 25 or so years.
U.S. Release Date: June 28, 2002 (initial release date in NYC)
Rating: four shot latte

The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys (USA)

A group of Catholic school student's pursue delinquent acts solely as a
means of preventing boredom. Comic book animation fantasy sequences are
used to great effect.
Random Observation: Producer Jodie Foster appears as a fearsome one-legged
nun.
U.S. Release Date: June 14, 2002
Rating: three shot, no foam latte

Elling (Norway)

Halfway through the festival, and this may be the contender for my favorite
film this year.
Touching, funny story of a man who lives in seclusion with his Mother for
forty years, is institutionalized upon her death, and is then placed in a
government apartment in Oslo so that he may integrate into society.
Random Observation: This is one of those movies that just sucked me in and
made me forget about everything else.
Rating: four shot, no foam latte

Emperor's New Clothes (Germany/Italy/United Kingdom)

Finely crafted story based on the supposition that Napoleon did not die in
exile in 1821, but instead, switched places with an imposter so that he
could return to France to regain political control.
Random Observation:
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Family Fundamentals (USA)

Documentary showcasing three families involved with reparative homosexual
therapy or anti-gay politics who all happen to have a gay and/or lesbian
family member. Interesting study of the inherent conflict of emotions and
personal morals.
Random Observation: none
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Good Hands (Estonia)

A somewhat disjointed but entertaining story of one of two thieving sisters
who finds herself in a small town where she befriends a small boy.
Random Observation: Eastern Europe always has this depressing appearance of
total hopelessness in the festival films I've seen.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Gossip (Sweden)

Nine of Sweden's top actresses, one coveted part, and about forty minutes
too long. Well meaning comedy centers around getting the part of Queen
Christina in a Hollywood remake of the Greta Garbo classic. The numerous
stories just get bogged down with poor pacing.
Random Observation: Does Sweden have nine top actresses?
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

The Happiness of the Katakuris (Japan)

Aside from several slow moments (including the beginning), this
musical/horror/comedy redeems itself with fun and nonsense.
Random Observation: This is one of seven films directed by Miike Takashi in
2001.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Herencia (Argentina)

A young German man travels to Buenos Aires looking for the woman he loves.
A chance encounter with a restaurant owner sets his destiny in motion in
this sweet film.
Random Observation: One of two films named "The Inheritance" in this year's
festival.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte, no foam

Her Mother, the Whore (France)
After her daughter dies under mysterious circumstances, the Mother goes
under cover as a hooker to investigate what she suspects was murder. The
story has promise, but this film was incredibly boring (my viewing mate
called it "Her Mother, the Bore")..... walked out after one hour.
Random Observation: The film was shot on video. I'm not sure if this is
so, but it looked like a TV movie.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: one shot latte

Hush (Japan)

A single Japanese woman decides to have a child and approaches a gay man to
assist her. Random Observation: Much more interesting take on the subject
than Madonna's "The Next Best Thing".
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

The Inheritance (Brazil)

Four sisters reunite to inventory and dispose of their Mother's estate, but
soon find themselves taking inventory of and determining what to do with
each of their own repective lives. Well written.
Random Observation: Bruno is very handsome.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

In Praise of Love (France)

Ugh. I walked out..... and I can't even say something interesting about the
twenty minutes I saw.
Random Observation: I thought this, the latest from Jean-Luc Godard, was
supposed to be something wonderful.
U.S. Release Date: no specific info, but I heard it's being released
Rating: empty cup

Lan Yu (China/Hong Kong)

This film covers the history of the relationship between a businessman and a
university student. Adapted from an anonymous story that was posted on the
internet, this film gets a bit soap opera-ish at times.
Random Observation: I got pretty far into this film thinking it was set in
present day when all of a sudden a brick-sized cell phone and a passing
reference to "East" Berlin (that most people would miss) turn up. Then the
plot line suddenly involves the uprising at Tianenmen Square, and the viewer
is placed in a solid time frame....from there the film takes a speed train
between plot points, leaving the viewer to catch his breath at each stop.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte, no foam

The Last Kiss (Italy)

Charming story about love, obligations, and keeping passion alive, as seen
through the eyes of three generations.
Random Observation:
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Lawless Heart (Great Britain)

A restauranteur dies, leaving behind his partner, family and friends to
consider their lives and how to "travel forward". Keep an eye out for
microphones to go dancing across the top of the frame at times.
Random Observation: I call this the "Go" technique--the story evolves three
times over from the perspective of different character's plot lines....to no
great effect in this case.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: one shot latte

Liberty Stands Still (USA)

This action film sits on the fence between being lame or just mindless, fun
entertainment. It's ok, it just gets too caught up in trying to make a
moral statement about gun control.
Random Observation: Wesley snipes needs to be redubbed; he mumbles so much,
I couldn't understand what was said at times.
U.S. Release Date: inevitable, but no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Love in the Time of Money (USA)

Weak series of stories (that are not interesting) vined together by
characters (who you won't care about) as one from each previous story
appears in the next.
Random Observation: Carol Kane is still working.
U.S. Release Date: no info available, but I doubt it will happen
Rating: cup of steamed milk

Mad Love (Spain) http://www.juanalaloca.com/intro.html

Chronicles the true story of Juana the Mad, the daughter of King Ferdinand
and Queen Isabella of Spain. The young woman unexpectedly inherited the
throne, inspiring a fateful conspiracy against her. Beautifully executed.
Random Observation: Eloy Azorin (Alvarado) is another seemingly "Hollywood
ready" commodity that I am surprised has not surfaced in U.S. films yet.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Malunde (South Africa/Germany)

A streeter (homeless) boy seeks a ride from an older man as he travels
cross-country to find his Mother near Cape Town. A very touching story.
Random Observation: This film swept South Africa's equivalent to the
"Oscars" with the co-stars sharing the Best Actor award.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Map of Sex and Love (Hong Kong/USA)

A man travels to Hong Kong to make a documentary of the new Disneyland that
is to be built, meets a woman and another man who happen to be neighbors,
and the story starts deteriorating into several directions (including the
trafficking of Nazi gold) in this very slow moving mess.
Random Observation: Macau (yes, they go there too) has beautiful Portuguese
colonial architecture.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: empty cup

Merci pour le Chocolat (France)

A young woman insinuates herself into the lives of a famous pianist and his
family and soon starts arousing suspicions. A good film but somewhat
pointless overall.
Random Observation: I liked the spiderweb-like afghan draped over the sofa.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte, no foam

Millennium Mambo (Taiwan/France)

I walked out of this slow-moving, seemingly disjointed mess.... so I don't
know what happened.
Random Observation: I'm beginning to see a trend for the Chinese movies, I
don't like them.
U.S. Release Date: doubtful
Rating: empty paper cup

Minoes (Netherlands)

Simple, entertaining story centering around a cat who accidentally becomes a
woman and proceeds to help a hapless news reporter. Very enjoyable.
Random Observation: If this were an English speaking film, I think it would
be as popular as "Babe" was in the states a few years back.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Mostly Martha (Germany/Austria)
My favorite film of the 2002 film festival. Martha is an austere master
chef. Her boss has sent her to therapy; and we watch as her life is thrown
into chaos. Everything about this film works to deliver a delightful story.
Stay through the credits.
Random Observation: Although a German film, the title was always intended
to be "Mostly Martha" because the writer/director, Sandra Nettelbeck, liked
the way it sounded. However, the German distributor did not agree and
changed the title, in Germany only, against her objections.
U.S. Release Date: August 2002
Rating: four shot latte, no foam

No News from God (Spain)

A clever take on the fight of good against evil as two "agents", one from
Heaven, one from Hell, vie to win the soul of a seemingly ordinary man's
soul.
Random Observation: Penelope Cruz does a wonderful job.... I wouldn't be
surprised to see a U.S. remake of this film.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

The Piano Teacher (Austria/France) U.S. site:
http://www.kino.com/pianoteacher/
French site:
http://www.mk2.com/Pianiste/home.html

I try not to get all flowery in these reviews; but this story is taught and
gripping, and the film is impeccably executed.... albeit, not too easy to
watch. A cold, contemptuous piano teacher involves a student in her
sado-masochistic sexual fantasies. Isabelle Huppert, in the title role,
gets my vote for "Best Actress" in this year's festival.
Random Observation: June 8 must have been porno night in Seattle. "Sex and
Lucia" and this film screened back-to-back; passholders and would be ticket
buyers were turned away from both..... what does this say for those poor,
repressed Seattlites? (By the way, both titles include clips of porno
films, and "Sex and Lucia" also contains the most explicit nudity and sexual
situations--used tastefully as part of the storyline--that I have ever seen
in a feature film.)
U.S. Release Date: Summer 2002
Rating: four shot latte

Pumpkin (USA)

A sorority coaches a team of Special Olympic athletes in their bid to win
sorority of the year in this comedy that lays bare the hypocrisy of how
society always finds a group or person to single out for exclusion.
Random Observation: Features Nina Foch who played Miss Evans in one of my
favorite guilty pleasures, "Mahogany".
U.S. Release Date: June 2002
Rating: three shot latte

Quitting (China)

An interesting premise: this film is based on a true story and acted by the
people that it is about. Unfortunately, it is difficult to care about the
self-absorbed central character; this film quickly became painful to sit
through.
Random Observation: I wish I would have sat at the end of the row for a
quick escape.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: an empty cup

Rain (USA)

Was I sitting in a theater, or was I watching Lifetime Television for Women?
Soap Opera deluxe set in desolate Iowa farmlands.
Random Observation: Melora Walters unintentionally (or maybe it was
intentional) reprises her character from "Magnolia". This film is also
chock full of gafs.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: one shot latte

Red Squirrel (Spain)

A man on the verge of suicide witnesses a motorcycle accident and comes to
the rescue of the driver. Upon realizing that she is suffering from
amnesia, he pretends to be her boyfriend and takes her on vacation to
recover in peace. Somewhat interesting psychological thriller which has a
few over the top moments that are a good time all the same.
Random Observation: This film was produced in 1993.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

The Safety of Objects (USA)

Overlapping stories of four families in one community, all on personal
journeys to that which will bring them peace.
Random Observation: I've always enjoyed Mary Kay Place's work.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte, no foam

Sass (Germany)

Based on the true story of the Sass brothers, two poor auto mechanics in
1920's Berlin who became famous and socially accepted for their expertise in
robbing banks and government institutions.... and for sharing their take
with the public. A riveting story, great acting and beautiful sets,
cinematography and soundtrack.
Random Observation: One of the brothers fathered an illegitimate son,
Michael Weiss, who became a Chicago lawyer noted for defending members of
the mafia.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte, no foam

Secret Ballot (Iran)

A city woman is sent to a remote island to collect votes for the national
elections. As she sets out with her reluctant, chauvinistic gaurd, we see
her eyes opened to the truth of her country's people.
Random Observation: Maybe I was just tired.... I really liked this story,
but it moved so damn slow. I walked out.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Sex and Lucia (Spain)

This is probably the most clever storyline of any film I saw this year, if
not the last several. A study of love, sex, and destiny.... and the power
we have to make our choices. A great, thought provoking ending.
Random Observation: June 8 must have been porno night in Seattle. "Sex and
Lucia" and this film screened back-to-back; passholders and would be ticket
buyers were turned away from both..... what does this say for those poor,
repressed Seattlites? (By the way, both titles include clips of porno
films, and "Sex and Lucia" also contains the most explicit nudity and sexual
situations--used tastefully as part of the storyline--that I have ever seen
in a feature film.)
U.S. Release Date: no date available; Rumor is that this film will not be
released uncut.
Rating: four shot latte, no foam

La Spagnola (Australia) http://www.jlddeal.com/laspagnola/HTM/ba.html

A Spanish migrant worker in Australia and her daughter struggle against each
other and the forces that seem to oppose them in life..... a brilliant blend
of drama and comedy, this film has one of those rare cinematic moments that
brings the audience to the edge of their seats in collective silence.
Lourdes Bartolome delights as an eccentric aunt who comes to visit.
Random Observation: I suspect Alex Demetriades (Stefano) will wash up on US
shores in the near future.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Spooky House (Canada)

A cute story geared to children, but interesting enough for adults. A few
scenes and the music are tedious.
Random Observation: Seeing Ben Kingsley with long hair is weird.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Sunshine State (USA)

Strong stories about two women from different parts of the same Florida
community--one who is just returning home for a visit after a prolonged
absence, the other who yearns to leave the only home she has ever known.
Very well acted.
Random Observation: Poppa Walton (Ralph Waite) shows up in Florida.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Tadpole (USA)

Tadpole is a fifteen year-old private school student who comes home to New
York for Thanksgiving weekend. The story is driven by his all-consuming
crush on his step-mother. This film was a little flat; it feels like
"made-for-TV" to me.
Random Observation: I wonder if (say twenty years ago) in her wildest
dreams, Sigourney Weaver ever imagined she'd be starring opposite John
Ritter.
U.S. Release Date: October 2002
Rating: two shot latte

Temptations (Hungary)

OK, China and Eastern Europe are in a contest for who has the most bad
films. I walked out.
Random Observation: I should have taken the hint when the first reel
broke.... but no, I stayed. I always keep hoping these losers will get
better.
U.S. Release Date: doubtful
Rating: empty cup

Turning Paige (Canada)

Well acted story, but slow and somewhat depressing.
Random Observation:
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Wild Bees (Czech Republic)

Slow starting, but ultimately interesting story of a depressing, rural
community's hopelessness.
Random Observation: I was struck by the amazing blues (the color) that kept
appearing.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Written on the Body of the Night (Mexico)

A film with in a film which becomes a flashback. The story is somewhat
weak, and the acting even worse....... I couldn't decide out if the director
was going for a 50's melodrama feel or if the actors were just of a "high
school play" caliber, but I'm leaning toward the latter.
Random Observation: The Grandmother character is a saving grace.
U.S. Release Date: no info available
Rating: one shot latte

2001

The Adventures of Felix (France)

A road movie centering around a young, gay man's encounters as he crosses
France to meet his Father for the first time. A few touching chapters occur
in an otherwise slow, pointless story.
Random Observation: The "grandmother" character does a nice job.
US release Date: June 13, 2001
Rating: one shot latte

Anita Takes a Chance (Spain)

Anita is a fifty-something woman totally devoted to her job as the ticket
woman at a cinema. Her life is turned upside down when her boss sends her
on holiday, and she returns to find a construction site where the theater
used to stand. See this.
Random Observation: You may recognize Rosa Maria Sarda, Anita, from her
supporting roles in other films, including "All About My Mother".
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Baise-Moi (Rape Me) (France)

What "Thelma and Louise" might have been with hard-core sex scenes
and a touch of "Natural Born Killers" tossed in. This film was directed by
and stars an assortment of French porno stars.
Random Observation: lots of people walked out
US Release Date: no info available, but I doubt it will happen
Rating: one shot latte

Bartleby (USA)

In this adaptation of the Hermann Melville story, Crispin Glover plays the
title character who alters the course of a small business owner. I chose
this film because of Glover.....even die-hard fans of him may have a hard
time sitting it out.
Random Observation: why isn't Carrie Snodgress in more work.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: Foamy cup of steamed milk.

Battle Royale (Japan)

What is it with those nutty Japanese? In the not so distant future, the
Japanese government's solution to overpopulation is to send one random Jr.
High School class to a deserted island each year. The catch? The students
have three days to have a fight to the finish--with only one left standing,
or they all die. Graphic violence with a comic flair.
Random Observation: In the lobby, Quentin Tarantino told the Webmaster and
I that (along with "The Matrix") this is his favorite film.
US Release Date: I doubt that will happen.
Rating: four shot latte (for Quentin)

Born Romantic (England)

Engaging stories of romance, the relationships of several couples, and the
cab driver who threads the various storylines together.
Random Observation: felt a little "Strictly Ballroom"
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Burnt Money (Argentina)

Wow. Beautiful cinematography....and boys. A true story that occurred
between September 28 to November 4, 1965, about an organized heist of seven
million dollars. The twist? Two of the hired crooks are gay lovers. Some
slow moments; but a well told, visually stunning story.
**See also: "Wild Horses" by the same director. Reviewed below.**
Random Observation: I made it halfway through the movie before I realized
it was set in the 60's.....I just thought they were wearing vintage clothes.
My companion didn't even realize it was not set in present day until I
mentioned it afterward. There is some sort of genius in that, I believe.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Business of Strangers (USA)

What starts out as a deeply textured character study soon turns into sharp,
psychological suspense as a high powered executive, Stockard Channing, has a
series of encounters during an overnight business trip. Terrific casting.
Random Observation: The director was present at the screening. Afterward,
he announced his shock and surprise to discover that a clip from one of his
short films had been used with out permission in the SIFF commercial which
aired at the beginning of the film.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Final (USA)

What would you do if you woke up from a coma and found yourself in a mental
hospital convinced you had been cryogenically frozen and are now in the
future? Don't bother seeing this film for the answer; your imagination is
infinitely more entertaining.
Random Observation: Campbell Scott, the director, was present--man, does he
have gray hair or what?
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: one shot latte

Gaudi Afternoon (USA/Spain)

Clever romp starring Judy Davis as a cash strapped, literary translator
living in Barcelona who is reluctantly hired by an American (Marcia Gay
Harden) to help find a missing child. Well written with a great cast.
Random Observation: I have always loved Gaudi's work.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

Hedwig and the Angry Inch (USA)

Rock opera centering around a young East German boy in pre-unification
Berlin, the sacrifice he makes to immigrate to the U.S., and his quest to
become a successful rock star.
Random Observation: beware of strangers bearing candy
US Release Date: August 2001
Rating: three shot latte

Innocence (Australia)

What could have been a good film instead comes across like a bad TV movie.
I actually fell asleep at one point. Interesting subject matter
though--after an unexplained 50 odd years of separation, a couple of first
loves rekindle their passion for one another; the hitch, one is still
married.
Random Observation: yes, septuagenarians do have sex
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Iron Ladies (Thailand)

Fluffy, situational drama/comedy based on the real life Iron Ladies, a
volley ball team made up mostly of drag queens and transexuals, who won the
Thai National Championship title in 1996.
The characters may seem tired to jaded western audiences, but I suspect this
is a landmark film for its homeland.
Random Observation: shades of "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert"
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Jack the Dog (USA)

Jack is the unrepentant womanizer in director Bobby Roth's autobiographical
film. Several rich performances make this slow story watchable.
Random Observation: El Coyote, the LA restaurant where several scenes take
place, is where Sharon Tate and friends had their last meal the night of
their murders.
US Release Date: not picked up for distribution
Rating: two shot latte

Jackpot (USA)

Second installment in a trilogy of films by brothers Mike and Mark Polish.
(The first installment is "Twin Falls, Idaho", the third will be "Hawthorne,
Montana"....I think, my memory fails me)
This outing centers around the music career dreams of a down on his luck,
Karaoke circuit performer. Entertaining.
Random Observation: Named for Jackpot, Nevada, Mike Polish admitted during
Q&A that he and his brother came up with these "city" titles because they
could not think of anything else.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Kisses for Everyone (Spain)

What is my saying?..... "I never met a Spanish film I did not like.".....
Set in 1965, Cadiz, Spain, this film has young Latin hotties, middle-aged
hookers, and a catchy soundtrack. Seriously, this is a very good film.
Random Observation: You may remember Eloy Azorin, one of the leads, from
his role as the son in "All About My Mother".
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte

My First Mister (USA)

SEE THIS FILM.
Christine Lahti directed this surprisingly moving tale of a young girl's
self-awakening when she befriends an older man.
Random Observation: Albert Brooks has no eyebrows! And the make-up person
did a piss poor job of pencilling some in.......I found them incredibly
distracting each time he was onscreen.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: four shot latte, no foam

O Fantasma (Portugal)

A murky journey into the life of a young, gay man who works as a garbage
collector and lives most of his life by the dark of night. Some may be
startled by the hard-core sex scenes, but the sex works well in the story
and is not exploitive. Although somewhat slow, the movie is interesting up
until the final fifteen minutes; at which point the title character (The
Phantom) appears and total confusion ensues.
Random Observation: What the Hell happened?
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: one shot latte

Our Lady of the Assassins (Colombia)

SEE THIS FILM. It has been at the center of controversy and has grossed
five times the amount that a typical US blockbuster import would draw in
Colombia.
Based on Fernando Vallejo's autobiography, Barbet Schroeder directs this
engrossing love story set against the social and political corruption of
Medellin, Colombia---a world where everything seems to come as easily as it
can be disposed. Of special note is the fact that besides the male lead,
all of the actors are street children recruited from the streets of
Medellin; two have been gunned down since filming was finished, and two more
have contracts out on their lives due to their participation in this film.
Schroeder, himself electing to film digitally to cut shooting time in such a
dangerous location, was the target of an attempted kidnapping.
Random Observation: throughout this violent film, not one single policeman
is shown.
US Release Date: late Summer, 2001
Rating: four shot latte, no foam

Sex, Shame, and Tears (Mexico)

Light story about the love lives and friendships of six friends.
Entertaining. This film has one many Mexican film awards and was a huge box
office success in that country.
Random Observation: This is like an R rated version of the TV sitcom
"Friends".
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Southern Comfort (USA)

This documentary follows the story of Robert Eads; a man from backwoods
Georgia who serves as an inspiration to all for his courage to live life
true to himself and on his own terms.
US Release Date: HBO will air this film in Spring 2002 with a possible
cinematic release before then.
Rating: four shot latte

Strictly Sinatra (Scotland)

Piece of comedy fluff centering around a 28 year-old, working class man who
dreams of becoming a famous singer in the manner of the Rat Pack. Starts
out well, but loses momentum. This years "Saving Grace" (see year 2000
reviews)..... a definite commercially packaged film.
Random Observation: the lead's hair is a wig
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Together (Sweden/Italy)

Endearing study of various families and singles who come together in a
communal housing arrangement in 1975. Not fabulous, but not bad either.
Random Observation: the program guide promised an ABBA infused
soundtrack.....one song is featured twice.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: three shot latte

Under the Sand (France)

Charlotte Rampling plays a woman lost after the disappearance of her
husband. Slow but interesting story of one woman's journey through the pain
of losing her love. Charlotte is fantastic to watch.
Random Observation: none
US Release Date: August 2001
Rating: three shot latte

The Weight of Water (USA/France)

This slow moving, self-important film does an otherwise great job of
blending two stories of love and jealously; one set in present day, the
other set 127 years earlier. Beautiful cinematography and editing (if you
go for such things).
Random Observation: don't go because you like Sean Penn
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: two shot latte

Wild Horses (Argentina)

This is my favorite film of the 2001 Festival. A moving film celebrating
the values of life by the director of "Burnt Money" (see review above). A
very strong story, actors, direction, cinematography.....I think it is best
savored without me giving away the story. Surprisingly, this film was made
in 1995; the festival
is presenting it this year as part of their "Emerging Masters" designation
for the director, Marcelo Pineyro.
Random Observation: Ford Motors markets an Escort convertible in Argentina.
US Release Date: available on VHS video; Buy it Here:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/6304756348/o/qid=992733694/sr=2-13/re
f=aps_sr_v_5_1/107-8462296-2889329

Rating: four shot latte, no foam

A Woman Is a Hell of a Thing (USA)

"Could have been clever" story of a man who reunites with an ex-girlfriend
at his Mother's funeral; futilely trying to rekindle their romance, he soon
discovers that she was his Mother's lover. Too commercial, this film has
been given the Hollywood treatment.
Random Observation: Mary Kay Place keeps popping up everywhere this year.
US Release Date: no doubt that this will be coming to a Cineplex near you
soon
Rating: two shot latte

2000

"Just Melvin" (USA)

A 30 something, white-trash man uses the pretense of documenting his family's inter-generation sexual abuses in order to showcase his by-gone glory days appearing on Star Search and other obscure game shows.
Random Observation: Abby Dalton appeared on gameshows before landing a recurring role on "Falcon Crest".
US Release Date: this film has been purchased by HBO with a planned
November broadcast.
Rating: 2 shot latte

"Black House" (Japanese)

A sociopathic couple develop a gruesome insurance scam. I almost walked out of this slow starter....thank my lucky stars I didn't; this film climaxes with the best suspense/horror/shock footage I've ever seen.
Random Observation: That wasn't an exaggeration, Japanese business men really do act that way.
US Release Date: has not been picked up for distribution
Rating: 3 shot latte

"But I'm A Cheerleader" (USA)

Natasha Lyonne portrays a popular high school student shipped off by her parents for homosexual de-programming in this fluffy comedy. Wacky gay hijinks ensue, and our confused heroine ends up embracing the dyke lifestyle.
Random Observation: Blue camouflage does not look good on anyone.
US Release Date: July 7

Rating: 2 shot latte

"The Junction" (Poland)

Charming tale of two young adult, female friends trying to take control of their destinies. The homely friend spends her days operating the railroad switching station near town. Beautifully photographed....but Poland looks like Hell on Earth. These girls had NOTHING to do for fun.
Random Observation: Once again, a homely girl pulls off a "Muriel" (referencing Toni Collette's title character in "Muriel's Wedding" who goes from ugly to stunning with the mere application of a good make-up job.)
US Release Date: not picked up for distribution
Rating: 3 shot latte

"Khroustaliov, My Car" (Russia/France)

Having to watch this movie would be worse than living in Poland. I walked out, and others followed.
Random Observation: The theater management made a rather strong announcement before the film that the mainly Russian audience was not welcome to talk during the screening
US Release Date: I don't think there is a distributor in America with business savvy that poor.
Rating: an empty cup

"I'll Take You There" (USA)

Delightful comedy- love story starring Ally Sheedy as a charmingly psychotic girl in search of love. The director, Adrienne Shelly, spoke afterward, and I absolutely loved her--mainly because when all of the wannabe cinema snobs were asking her the symbolism of this or that, she chuckled and said their was no symbolism, it was just a story she thought up.
Random Observation: Well....that will just be my little secret that the director shared.
US Release Date: not picked up for distribution
Rating: Three and a half shot latte

"Venus Beauty Institute" (France)

Wonderful story about how real love is immune to the limits of generation gaps. This film won a Cesar award (the French "Oscar"). And once again, the director was on hand to put audience members to shame when they asked lame questions.
Random Observation: Duing Q & A after the screening, the director, Tonie Marshall, clarified that the cathedral scene on Christmas Eve was cut abruptly short because she could not afford the fee to shoot inside. (By the way, Tonie handled those who asked lame questions truthfully yet with grace.....some audience members clearly did not pay attention to the whole film.)
US Release Date: November 2000
Rating: 4 shots

"Sordid Lives" (USA)

Fun little saga of a very campy, white-trash Texas family. The core of the story is about accepting people for what they are, not what we want them to be. Features drag queens, gay soap opera actors, a very slimmed down Delta Burke who devours fried chicken like there is no tomorrow, adulterers, drunks, and Olivia Newton-John as a guitar strummin ex-con. Fell apart toward the end.
Random Observation: Beau is still the ugly Bridges brother.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: 3 shot latte

"Janice Beard 45 WPM" (Great Britain)

A fun little trot through the life of a compulsively lying Scottish girl who runs away to London in order to fund the treatment of her Agoraphobic Mother and ends up, well, saving a failing auto manufacturer, getting the man, and curing her mother....all with her
continuous string of lies.
Random Observation: Rhys Ifans is actually kind of handsome when he is cleaned up. (Most Americans will remember him as Hugh Grant's room mate in "Notting Hill")
US Release Date: not picked up for distribution
Rating: 3.5 shot latte

"Asphalto" (Spain)

I have never seen a Spanish film I did not like, and this one does not disappoint. Fast moving action; infinitely twisting and turning multiple plot lines.....but it all makes sense; the shortest shorts I have ever seen a woman wear for nearly a whole film; a hot, hot, hot, Spanish stud.....pure fun.
Random Observation: What was with those shorts the female lead was wearing????
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: 4 shot latte

"The Eyes of Tammy Faye" (USA)

That poor Minnesota girl. Did you know she got her start as a puppeteer with a puppet she created from a Porky Pig doll by melting down its ears? This documentary covers every sordid detail from her life. I admire her attitude even if she is a little (well, ok, very) tragic.
Random Observation: Were you aware that Kevin Spacey played Jim Bakker in the NBC bio-pic on the Bakkers?
US Release Date: July 2000
Rating: 3 shot latte

"Flowers From Another World" (Spanish)

A tale of love and personal sacrifice in the name of security. This film centers around a town which organizes a yearly festival to bring eligible single women in by the bus loads for all of the resident bachelors to court. Bittersweet.
Random Observation: Some insightful commentary on Spain's racial problems.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: 3.5 shot latte

"Hola, Esta Sola?" (Spanish)

By the same director, Iciar Bollain, as "Flowers From Another World". One obvious gaff in the editing (which made me drop my rating), but otherwise a pleasant film.
Random Observation: Yes, Mothers can be unrepentant bitches.
US Release Date: no info available
Rating: 2.5 shot latte

"Red Dirt" (USA)

OK, I can't believe it, but it happened. This movie is the Venti, Non-fat, no foam, two Sweet and Low Latte!!!

This is the best film I have ever seen. NO LIE..... so it will get more than one minute! Mississippi, a hottie (Dan Montgomery), lush country scenery, a perfect soundtrack, Karen Black (an over-looked, under valued American treasure.... .and we are talking Oscar quality this time), rich characterizations, broken down lives in recovery, an extended Southern family, a touching script, lives in turmoil, a fabulous Southern Plantation home, another hottie (Walton Goggins, remember this name), outstanding direction by Tag Purvis, and the most believable depictions of human relationships ever put on film......what more can I say? Well, that is as far as I'm going; I will not give any of this story away. If you have the chance, SEE IT.
--Excuse me while I gush, this film deserves more than one random observation.......
Random Observation #1: Walton Goggins has obscenely white teeth (and they are really, really big, too)
Random Observation #2: Karen Black is really cool and charming in real life.....she attended the screening!!! and did a Q & A afterwards.
Random Observation #3: No one in the audience asked a stupid question (I think I hallucinated that part).
US Release Date: this film has not been picked up for distribution.
Rating: 5 shots with no foam whatsoever!!!

"Aimee and Jaguar" (Germany)

A mingling of tender love stories, the decadent underground lifestyles of WWII Berlin, espionage, and tales of survival--all
set against a backdrop of the German capital under heavy attack from the Allies. Excellent cinematography. Pay attention to the surprising revelation in the epilogue.
Random Observation: Berlin is my favorite European city.
US Release Date: Summer 2000
Rating: 4 shot latte

Ave Maria (Mexico)

Fictionalized account of the tribulations of a martyred Mexican Saint. The writer/director asserts that the Spanish Catholics who colonized Mexico were a greedy, ignorant, and corrupt lot--now that's an original concept. Slow moving, but interesting.
Random Observaton: Never trust a christion.
US Release Date: this film has not been picked up for distribution.
Rating: 2.5 shot latte

Dark Days (USA)

This compelling documentary focuses on squatters living in the train tunnels below New York City. Completely vacant since being cleared about two years ago, the tunnels once housed approximately10,000 people--some of whom had lived underground for 25 years. Whole communities existed complete with private dwellings, running water, and electricity.
This film traces the director's efforts to work with Amtrak in relocating his own and other tunnel communities to housing above the streets. It should be noted that the director conceived of the film in order to share their stories, and his subjects also served as his crew. Nearly all of his equipment and supplies were donated.
Random Observation: The director is still homeless and plans to evenly divide any proceeds from the film amongst all who assisted in its creation.
US Release Date: Distribution rights are currently in negotiation.
Rating: 4 shot latte

The Nameless (Spain)

VERY tense, highly styled, suspense thriller. The people sitting to either side of me were rigid and gripping the arms of their chair through much of the film. However, the story is somewhat predictable if you are sharp, and the ending is abrupt.
Random Observation: Spaniards know visual style!
US release date: no information available
Rating: 3 shot latte

The Tao of Steve (USA)

Straight men! Who can figure them out? This comedy/drama traces one guy's journey as he learns how to love. The screenwriter based this film on himself....and he is an idiot. I know because he introduced himself to me while I was waiting to enter the theater. This man needs to get a life.
Random observation: The male lead looks like he is wearing a pillow to look overweight, but it's all him. (I met him too; he gained sixty pounds for the part.)
US release date: no information available
Rating: 2.5 shot latte

Water Drops on Burning Rocks (France)

This film is set in 1970's Germany and centers around a very sexual 50 year-old bi-sexual man. The story is gloomy and not very redeeming as we see his affect on the lives of one man and two women.
Random observation: Those costumes are fabulous.
US release date: An August 2000 release date is scheduled.
Rating: 2 shot latte

Lost in the Pershing Point Hotel (USA)

Autobiographical film about a gay country boy who lived with his parents until he was 38, moved to the big city of Atlanta in the disco '70's, fell in with the drug crowd, OD'd on herion, and had a major revelation about himself. You will not care. Not overly compelling. It left me flat, although I did get to see Michelle Philips in person; she sat two rows ahead of me.
Random Observation: The director, who sat next to me, was positively obnoxious. She kept going on about how her's was the best film we would see at the SIFF.
US release date: no information available
Rating: 1 shot latte

Looking for Alibrandi (Australia)

Very charming story of a teenaged girl who has never met her Father. As she seeks to learn more about him, she makes some shocking revelations about her family's history and comes to respect them as well.

Random Observation: The Italian actress playing the grandmother does not know a single word of English. All of her dialogue was phonetic.
US release date: This film has not been picked up for distribution.
Rating: 4 shot latte

Saving Grace (UK)

So, so comedy starring Brenda Blethyn. Seems pretty much like a studio film.
Random Observation: Was that Miss Mamie (from "The Waltons) working in the general store?
US Release date: no information available, but I wouldn't be surprised if it plays here.
Rating: 2.5 shot latte

The Audition (Japan)

What is it with the Japanese? Another horror/drama about a sociopath, this film pays off for its slow moments with some intense, over-the-top scenes of torture and violence (graphic but totally in context). I kid you not, girl, at one point so many people were getting up to leave that I lost track of the film while trying to count them. The ending is great! Not for the squeamish.
Random Observation: This one had me yelling out load.
US Release Date: no information available
Rating: 3 shot latte