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Stalingrad, a review by Rich

durch kaltes Deutschland



This film is a gritty, devastating retelling of the battle for Stalingrad during World War II, in which more than a million and a half soldiers lost their lives. Told from the point of view of the German soldiers, who were under orders to neither retreat nor surrender, this film realistically portrays the brutality of combat.

Having read so many good reviews for this film, I felt slightly disappointed afterwards. It certainly would have more impact in it's original language, the dubbing sounded Monty Pythonesque and detracted from the films moving content. Graphic war scenes, harsh and bitter tale from the soldiers perspective, the film just didn't quite have enough to make it a classic IMO  5/10



(From Around the World in 80 DVD's on January 5th, 2008)

Home from the Hill, a review by Rick

Home from the Hill
Hollywood Legends:
Robert Mitchum
George Peppard
George Hamilton

Overview:
Wade Hunnicutt is a big man who casts a big shadow, one that looms over the Texas backwoodsmen who work his land...over the beautiful, embittered wife he cheats on...and over the sons -- one from marriage and one illegitimate -- who strive for their father's respect. Robert Mitchum "gives one of his greatest performances" (Michael Barson, 'The Illustrated Who's Who of Hollywood Directors') as Wade, and Vincente Minnelli directs this sprawling emotionally volatile of an epic clash between generations. In early-career roles, George Peppard and George Hamilton co-star as Wade's sons, determined to be their own men, yet in danger of repeating their father's life-crippling legacy of lust and violence.

My Thoughts:
This one took me by surprise. I wasn't sure what to expect going into it but I know didn't expect what I got. I can't think of any Robert Mitchum movies I don't like so I expected to enjoy it. I was not disappointed. There was a while about 2/3rds into the movie where I did begin to loose interest. It didn't take long to grab me right back again though.

It's a drama about a messed up family, their interactions with each other and with the community. He's a mans man, with power, respect, money, basically everything he wants. On the outside he's got it all. It's pretty clear within 10 minutes of the movie that his family life is dysfunctional at best.

Great performances by George Peppard and George Hamilton, who play his sons. One legitimate with all the benefits of growing up in a powerful family. The other, an illegitimate child who wants nothing more than to be called 'son'. The story turns out to be as much (if not more) about the sons as it does about Mitchum. I'm finding it hard to say too much as there are some good story lines I don't want to ruin for anyone who may watch this.

If you like dramas with good story lines and great performances I recommend this movie. Take note, it is 150 minutes long so make sure you have lots of pop corn.

My Rating


(From DCO third annual November Alphabet Marathon - discussion/review/banter thread on November 12th, 2009)

Smallville Marathon, a review by addicted2dvd

17. REAPER
Angel of mercy or death? After a Kryptonite-related incident gives a young man the ability to kill via mere touch, he sets out to use his newfound power on people who are gravely ill.

My Thoughts:
Another really good episode. enjoyed every minute of it. Though I do feel the ending left some to be desired. I just didn't care for how the Freak of the Week was stopped.

18. DRONE
running on the platform of "truth, justice and... other stuff," Clark vias for class president. But a beekeeping rival contender vows Clark and the other aspirants will feel the sting of her candidacy.

My Thoughts:
Another good episode but nothing really in it that I would call special. Just a good 45min of Smallville entertainment.

19. CRUSH
After a hit-and-run accident that destroys his drawing hand, a cartoonist is left with bitterness, pain... and an unexpected gift of telekinesis that he turns into an instrument of revenge.

My Thoughts:
This is a really good episode that had a lot to do with my favorite character (Chloe). I also liked the effects of the drawing of Chloe with the telekinesis. I remember when this season originally aired I hoped to see Clark and Chloe to get together.. at least for a while.

20. OBSCURA
Lana has eerie visions involving a kidnapping of Chloe. Lex's ongoing inquiry into the mystery surrounding Clark takes an intriguing turn when a crop duster reveals what he saw fall from the sky during the Smallville Meteor shower.

My Thoughts:
Going from Chloe being emotionally hurt to her being physically in trouble. This is an excellent episode... one of my favorites of the season. This is also the first look at the metal octagon that becomes so important in the series.

(From Smallville Marathon on July 31st, 2007)