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Rome, Open City, a review by Richflit through beautiful italy Title: Rome, Open City Runtime:103 Certificate:12 Year:1945 Genres:War, Drama Plot:One of the greatest foreign language films ever made, Roberto Rossellini's 'Rome, Open City' was filmed in the direct aftermath of World War II on the war-ravaged streets of Italy. Shunning Hollywood gloss and glamour, this frank tale is set against the backdrop of extreme conditions, and characterises neorealism's principal traits - natural lighting, handheld camerawork and a cast composed largely of non-actors. Due to the scarcities of war, scraps of film acquired from photographers had to be used, giving the film a uniquely gritty style. Now digitally restored, Rossellini's masterpiece appears as never before. Based on real events that took place in Nazi-occupied Italy in 1944, it examines the choices that people are forced to make in wartime. Centring on the Resistance and its members, this is a tragic and emotional exploration of human spirit and the effects of war. My Review: Cinematic history, slightly depressing content but with an underlying hopeful message. Probably to scholarly for my own tastes My Rating (From Around the World in 80 DVD's on January 11th, 2008) Stigmata, a review by Richour fathers in the Vatican... Title: Stigmata Runtime:99 Certificate:18 Year:1999 Genres:Drama, Horror, Suspense/Thriller Plot:A lost soul has 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 Smashing Pumpkins and Elia Cmiral make Stigmata a visual and visceral feast. Frankie Paige (Arquette) has absolutely no faith in God. All of that suddenly changes when she suddenly begins to suffer the Stigmata - the 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 channelling an extraordinary and provocative message that could destroy the Church, he's convinced that she - and the force possessing her - must be forever silenced. Determined to stop this deadly conspiracy, Kiernan risks his faith - and his life - to save her and the message that will change the destiny of mankind forever. My Review: Slated by critics en masse, I must admit this film which I'd seen before is like a guilty pleasure, and enjoyed watching this production again. It's a perfect ensemble of actors and storyline that will satisfy those in the mood to think while they watch. Not great, not scary, not overly challenging - but ok. My Rating (From Around the World in 80 DVD's on January 10th, 2008) Tom's TV Pilots marathon, a review by Tom
Plot: How long can they keep a secret!? Two exciting years have passed since the reunion of Kaoru and Aoi. The newest member of the Sakuraba household is Taeko's cousin, Chika, who just started high school. Her frank questions and surprising sexiness have Kaoru in a bind. Later, a tennis outing for everyone leaves Kaoru impressed with Aoi's grace as well as her charming outfit. Finally, the gang hears mysterious noises in the mansion and suspect that it's haunted. Leave it to Taeko, the resident occult specialist, to solve the mystery! Ai Yori Aoshi: Enishi 1.01 Oshun Writer: Kou Fumizuki (Original Material By) Director: Daisuke Takashima Cast: Original Japanese Cast), Soichiro Hoshi (Kaoru Hanabishi (voice)), Ayako Kawasumi (Aoi Sakuraba (voice)), Akiko Hiramatsu (Miyabi Kagurazaki (voice)), Satsuki Yukino (Tina Foster (voice)), Kaori Mizuhashi (Taeko Minazuki (voice)), Sayaka Narita (Mayu Miyuki (voice)), Haruko Momoi (Chika Minazuki (voice)), Yuka Inoguchi (Uzume (voice)), Kohei Shiozuka (Man (Couple) (voice)), English Voice Cast), Dave Lelyveld ( (voice)), Julie Ann Taylor ( (voice)), Kay Jensen ( (voice)), Kirsty Pape ( (voice)), Lia Sargent ( (voice)), Michelle Ruff ( (voice)), Midge Mayes ( (voice)), Ron Allen ( (voice)), Sue Beth Arden ( (voice)), Wendee Lee ( (voice)) The sequel series to Ai Yori Aoshi, which brings conclusion to the story (although different ending than the manga, because that one was still ongoing at that point). Who liked the first series will also like this one. Rating: (From Tom's TV Pilots marathon on March 25th, 2011) |